26/03/2014

David Jason - My Life: the story of a legend in his own words



Another genre I haven't blogged about in a while; the book review. And again, another area I was most keen to return to, so here it is! Just before Christmas last, I received David Jason's autobiography My Life, and I have recently finished it. From a very early age, I have loved the work of Sir David Jason; even before I was old enough to know what an actor was. There have been countless brilliant shows, films, animations and characters that David Jason has inhabited and brought to life, some not so well known and some that will never die in the memory of society. Only Fools and Horses, Open All Hours, A Touch of Frost, Darling Buds of May, Diamond Geezer, Porterhouse Blue, Porridge, The Wind in the Willows, Snow Queen (the first time I remember seeing something featuring him) Dangermouse...the list goes on and on. I doubt you will find many who do not agree that David Jason is a legend of stage and screen, a supremely wonderful talent, and all round lovable fellow indeed. 




Thus naturally, I was greatly enthused when I heard Sir David had released his memoirs, penned by his own hand. Apparently, part of the reason he chose to write this book (according to an interview given on This Morning I believe) was that he had read a few biographies written without permission of his estate and was dissapointed, and he felt he ought to set any record straight himself. Not only do I respect this decision hugely (because let's face it - with his longevity, success and reputation, he didn't really need to if he didn't want to did he) but I believe Sir David Jason is thoroughly deserving of this. Unlike some 20 year old jump-starts who pop up on TV for 5 minutes, declaring themselves an "established celebrity", then feel they must write an autobiography of a life that has barely begun, Sir David Jason does not need to fear any such negative opinion. What's more, unlike others, David at no point refers to himself, or the reasons for him writing his book, as anything to do with "celebrity". He writes purely and simply, and in my opinion to great effect, as an actor, electrician, and human being.

With all this in mind, I feel My Life is a very good read indeed. Told candidly and with straight forward instinct, yet retaining a great deal of that class and panache that draws us so greatly to Sir David Jason on screen. He appears truly mindful of how wonderful his success is, aware of the struggle it has cost him both professionally and personally, and is truly humbled in his writing by the position he now finds himself in. 
The way in which he talk of his working and social relationship with Ronnie Barker (AKA "The Guv'nor") is wonderfully intrinsic and touching. His familial ups and downs are discussed in not an overly gushing fashion, which I am not complaining about, but with a truly David Jason charm and touch. And yes, all the tales and tidbits from shows such as Frost, Open All Hours and Only Fools are all there, and they of course are brilliant to behold.
Faults? Not many at all. I suppose, in terms of the narrative there are a few too many twists, turns and jumps through time which can be a tad confusing. Having said that, I infinitely prefer that approach to a simple straight line from birth onward. 

Really though, this autobiography is a real gem I feel. Whether like me you are a passionate fan, or whether you just want an interesting read, David Jason: My Life will deliver in spades. At so many points I found myself pausing to smile at that iconic, warm and wonderful man smiling back at me from the front cover. David ends his book in 2005, upon two high notes I'm sure you'll agree - his knighthood and his marriage. But of course, his story did not end there, for we know he has since gone on to produce more great work, and shall hopefully continue to do so for years to come. I need hardly mention his most recent return to Del Boy (along side Nicholas Lyndhurst and brilliantly David Beckham) which was met with rapturous acclaim. Also, after reviving the character at Christmas, he is now set to star in a brand new series of Still Open All Hours, resurrecting Granville. So as we can see, Sir David Jason is incredibly well loved, and for good reason, and he ain't finished yet...lovely jubbly!












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