Starter for 10 (HBO)

About Starter for 10 (HBO)

Starter for 10 is a romantic comedy-drama released in 2007 and broadcasted by HBO. The film is an adaptation of a novel by David Nicholls and set in the 1980s. It tells the story of Brian Jackson (James McAvoy), a first-year university student and trivia-lover who secures a spot on his school's University Challenge team in a pursuit of love and knowledge.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Tom Vaughan and produced by Tom Hanks and Pippa Harris among others. The screenplay was written by David Nicholls who adapted it from his novel. It was well-praised for its blend of humor, romance and University life nostalgia.

Actors

• James McAvoy as Brian Jackson: McAvoy excels in his role as Brian, a young man with a keen mind and a big heart.
• Rebecca Hall as Rebecca Epstein: Hall brilliantly plays Rebecca, a politically conscious student who catches Brian’s eye.
• Alice Eve as Alice Harbinson: Eve plays the role of Alice, the team's object of desire with grace and charm.
• Dominic Cooper as Spencer: Cooper brings life to the role of Spencer, Brian's best friend who stands as a humorous contrast to Brian.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Although the film is set in Bristol, most of its university scenes were filmed at the University of Greenwich.
• The title, 'Starter for 10' refers to the starting question in the trivia competition, University Challenge which has been a British television staple since 1962.
• James McAvoy's character Brian Jackson is a fan of Kate Bush. In real life, McAvoy is also a fan of hers.

Awards

Praise for Starter for 10 included a nomination for Best British Film at the British Comedy Awards and a nomination for Most Promising Newcomer for Alice Eve at the British Independent Film Awards.

Quotes

• “Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to be clever.” - Brian Jackson
• “Brian, knowledge is not the same as wisdom.” - Rebecca Epstein
• “I always thought that books were magic.” - Brian Jackson

Music, Soundtrack

• “Ace of Spades” - Motorhead
• “In Between Days” - The Cure
• “Love Will Tear Us Apart” - Joy Division