Thursday, 22 March 2012 02:03
101 Comments
Impressionist Rory Bremner is in negotiations to create an independence debate comedy special, starring Alex Salmond as “a version of Iranian President Ahmadinejad.”
The Edinburgh-born comedian, most famous for his portrayals of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, and for his work on Spitting Image, Mock the Week and Bremner, Bird and Forture, is now moving back to Scotland to work on his Salmond impression.
Commenting on the idea for the show, Mr Bremner said: “I really need to start looking at tapes of Alex Salmond because he’s not someone I’ve really done.
“We’ve been talking to the Comedy Unit in Glasgow about doing some shows on independence. I’d love to do a documentary on the build-up to 2014 and get enough comic material for a spin-off.
“I haven’t got my head around the independence debate but I have a lovely idea of turning Alex into a version of Iranian President Ahmadinejad.”
The news comes only two months after the BBC was inundated with viewer complaints when Newsnight host Jeremy Paxman compared Mr Salmond to Zimbabwean dictator Robert Mugabe.
Mr Bremner has also hinted at creating a likeness to James Bond supervillain Blofeld, saying: “I kind of see him in an office at the very top of the Scott Monument, stroking a white Scottish terrier, like McBlofeld.
“He’s got to pretend that the nuclear submarine base at Faslane is just part of Scotland’s domestic energy programme.
“And that the submarines are just being used to heat water in Ayrshire and they are actually no threat at all to England and the rest of Britain.
“So another great thing about moving back is that I’ll get to study it all at close quarters.”
A tyrannical portrayal of the First Minister, however, whilst intended as light-hearted comedy, may raise concerns amongst some independence supporters about the nature of the debate and its sensitivity in the run-up to 2014.
Mr Bremner has been a vocal opponent of independence, stating in a recent interview with The Scotsman: “I love the idea of being a separate entity within the whole. I think independence is an idea whose time has come and gone.”
He said he wanted his children to feel Scottish, adding: “But not in an Alex Salmond, independence kind of way…”
Whatever the outcome of the show, one thing that is clear is that the First Minister is beginning making his mark in the popular consciousness and culture of the modern day Scottish imagination.
Note: This article originally stated that Mr Bremner was in talks with the BBC. Mr Bremner has since said that the talks are with another broadcaster. However the source of the claim that Mr Bremner is in talks with the BBC over an ‘Independence Debate Special’ was reported by the Sun newspaper – http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/scotlandfeatures/4207996/Rory-Bremner-Alex-Salmond-has-made-a-big-impression-on-me.html
Comments
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2012-03-22 02:25
2012-03-22 02:25
Checks date. Nope not 1st April.
You think they would have learnt their lesson with “Scotch on the Rocks”?
I think someone must be pulling somebody’s leg – this surely can’t be true.
You think they would have learnt their lesson with “Scotch on the Rocks”?
I think someone must be pulling somebody’s leg – this surely can’t be true.
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2012-03-22 02:41
2012-03-22 02:41
The other great thing about moving back Rory, will be seeing how out of touch you get when you’re too close to the coloniser, maybe the sketches will change when seen from the perspective of the new emerging Scotland.
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2012-03-22 06:32
2012-03-22 06:32
With any luck this might offend the electorate and back fire on them – well here’s hoping anyway.
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2012-03-22 08:12
2012-03-22 08:12
My thouhts exactly.
Paxman compared Salmond to Mugabe and SNP membership skyrocketed.
I don’t think this will be any different. The SNP have just done too many good things for the common man or woman in Scotland for anyone to take seriously the claims that he’s a dictator.
What will actually happen here is Salmond will dictate terms, not because he’s a greedy power hungry maniac, but because the three other main parties are a complete shambles and cannot create a creditable opposition.
Paxman compared Salmond to Mugabe and SNP membership skyrocketed.
I don’t think this will be any different. The SNP have just done too many good things for the common man or woman in Scotland for anyone to take seriously the claims that he’s a dictator.
What will actually happen here is Salmond will dictate terms, not because he’s a greedy power hungry maniac, but because the three other main parties are a complete shambles and cannot create a creditable opposition.
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2012-03-22 06:55
2012-03-22 06:55
He said he wanted his children to feel Scottish, adding: “But not in an Alex Salmond, independence kind of way…”
I guess he probably means Scottish in an upper class English public school sort of way.
I guess he probably means Scottish in an upper class English public school sort of way.
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2012-03-22 07:41
2012-03-22 07:41
Anagach! Yes think you hit the nail on the head, I was wondering what kind of way he was meaning 🙂
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2012-03-22 20:44
2012-03-22 20:44
Cant think he was meaning Scottish in a Methil kinda way… but..Bless him if he did… I will of course be able to coach him.
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2012-03-23 11:43
2012-03-23 11:43
Bremner doesn’t get it – it’s not “an Alex Salmond independence” it is our independence.
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2012-03-22 07:43
2012-03-22 07:43
Insulting Alex Salmond insults the near 50% of us who voted for him and are happy with his leadership. It will backfire definitely!
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2012-03-22 07:47
2012-03-22 07:47
Hi there,
I think this could be great as long as he does not concentrate solely on Alex and the SNP. Surely there is much more material to work with from the contradictions within the other parties’ actions and their totally lacklustre leaders. I can imagine Rory absolutely ripping the piss out of Ruthie, the Lamentable and their hangers-on.
It would anyway be far more effective comedy to concentrate on those who are not popular, rather on Alex who is immensely popular. Targeting mainly Alex is likely only to increase sympathy for the SNP if we are seen to be unfairly bullied.
So far most of the establishment’s propaganda has had an effect opposite to that intended. This will probably do likewise.
Bring it on.
Regards,
I think this could be great as long as he does not concentrate solely on Alex and the SNP. Surely there is much more material to work with from the contradictions within the other parties’ actions and their totally lacklustre leaders. I can imagine Rory absolutely ripping the piss out of Ruthie, the Lamentable and their hangers-on.
It would anyway be far more effective comedy to concentrate on those who are not popular, rather on Alex who is immensely popular. Targeting mainly Alex is likely only to increase sympathy for the SNP if we are seen to be unfairly bullied.
So far most of the establishment’s propaganda has had an effect opposite to that intended. This will probably do likewise.
Bring it on.
Regards,
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2012-03-22 08:18
2012-03-22 08:18
Comment edited by NNS Mod Team
And take off your SNP tinted Specs. Salmond is very popular and unpopular in equal measures. I know plenty of people who would support independene more strongly if he wasn’t there. Personally I think he’s great and struggle to understand why Scos living in Scotland who don’t have strong ties to other parties wouldn’t like him, but this is the case with at least two of my very patriotic Scottish friends. They (like the Unionists) have been uanle to come up with a good case for thei position.
And take off your SNP tinted Specs. Salmond is very popular and unpopular in equal measures. I know plenty of people who would support independene more strongly if he wasn’t there. Personally I think he’s great and struggle to understand why Scos living in Scotland who don’t have strong ties to other parties wouldn’t like him, but this is the case with at least two of my very patriotic Scottish friends. They (like the Unionists) have been uanle to come up with a good case for thei position.
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2012-03-22 11:15
2012-03-22 11:15
Where were these ‘plenty of people’ before Salmond returned home to lead his party? It doesn’t ring true, I’m afraid.
Independence isn’t about Salmond, it is about the Scottish people, as he is always pointing out.
Independence isn’t about Salmond, it is about the Scottish people, as he is always pointing out.
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2012-03-22 13:24
2012-03-22 13:24
I hope you get replacement keys for the ones which are obviously missing from your keyboard John. It must be such a chore having to use the one you have now.
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2012-03-22 17:50
2012-03-22 17:50
Hi John,
Opinion polls show consistently that Alex is very popular with the electorate, achieving spectacular rates of approval in comparison with his opposite numbers, both in Scotland and the UK. He was not voted recently the UK’s “Politician of the Year”, or was it “Britain of the Year” for nothing.
Lampooning Alex in an unfair way would be almost akin to lampooning the Queen. It would not go down well unless seen to be sympathetic and therefore harmless or even possibly, beneficial. If it is not done sympathetically it will backfire. His opponents and the “Establishment” have much more to fear than Alex.
I am not the only one who sees the possible benefits. See many of the other comments both below and above.
Regards,
Opinion polls show consistently that Alex is very popular with the electorate, achieving spectacular rates of approval in comparison with his opposite numbers, both in Scotland and the UK. He was not voted recently the UK’s “Politician of the Year”, or was it “Britain of the Year” for nothing.
Lampooning Alex in an unfair way would be almost akin to lampooning the Queen. It would not go down well unless seen to be sympathetic and therefore harmless or even possibly, beneficial. If it is not done sympathetically it will backfire. His opponents and the “Establishment” have much more to fear than Alex.
I am not the only one who sees the possible benefits. See many of the other comments both below and above.
Regards,
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2012-03-22 09:24
2012-03-22 09:24
Portraying Thatcher as tough didn’t harm her at all. I still recall the
“I’ll have my steak rare”
“What about the vegetables?”
“Oh they will have the same”
It was the politicians portrayed as weak or ineffective that suffered at the hands of Spitting Image. I quite like the Scott Monument and White Terrier idea – I think Ahmadinejad might come across as a wee bit racist on a number of levels. Alex played as clever, strong and a wee bit scary like Bloefeld won’t do him any harm at all and if it is funny to boot it might become an iconic memory/image especially if his opponents are played to type and are bumbling incompetents….they have a lot more to fear from this.
That said the Long Johns are my favourite.
“I’ll have my steak rare”
“What about the vegetables?”
“Oh they will have the same”
It was the politicians portrayed as weak or ineffective that suffered at the hands of Spitting Image. I quite like the Scott Monument and White Terrier idea – I think Ahmadinejad might come across as a wee bit racist on a number of levels. Alex played as clever, strong and a wee bit scary like Bloefeld won’t do him any harm at all and if it is funny to boot it might become an iconic memory/image especially if his opponents are played to type and are bumbling incompetents….they have a lot more to fear from this.
That said the Long Johns are my favourite.
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2012-03-22 15:40
2012-03-22 15:40
I can see it now. Blofeld’s lair. Salmond describes his plan, all the while stroking the cat. Suddenly James Bond bursts in with a gun.
“And what are you going to do about it, Mr Bond?” says Blofeld/Salmond.
Bremner switches to Sean Connery voice: “Vote for independensh!”
“And what are you going to do about it, Mr Bond?” says Blofeld/Salmond.
Bremner switches to Sean Connery voice: “Vote for independensh!”
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2012-03-22 09:28
2012-03-22 09:28
Och – lighten up folks. The referendum result isn’t going to be decided by Rory Bremner.
That aside, he’s a very talented, intelligent individual (his abilities go far beyond being a ‘second rate impressionist’).
Far too many of our most talented people move elsewhere because there’s not enough to keep them here in terms of available work or opportunity, or because they feel stifled by the ‘I kent yir faither’ brigade.
I’m hoping that the independence debate will encourage all sorts of people at the top of their chosen field to move back – and that includes politicians, artists, academics, musicians, scientists, teachers, doctors, ‘second rate impressionists’ etc who are both for and against independence.
I am aware that my outlook on the world is limited – the last thing I want is a Scotland where everybody agrees with me.
That aside, he’s a very talented, intelligent individual (his abilities go far beyond being a ‘second rate impressionist’).
Far too many of our most talented people move elsewhere because there’s not enough to keep them here in terms of available work or opportunity, or because they feel stifled by the ‘I kent yir faither’ brigade.
I’m hoping that the independence debate will encourage all sorts of people at the top of their chosen field to move back – and that includes politicians, artists, academics, musicians, scientists, teachers, doctors, ‘second rate impressionists’ etc who are both for and against independence.
I am aware that my outlook on the world is limited – the last thing I want is a Scotland where everybody agrees with me.
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2012-03-22 11:22
2012-03-22 11:22
Sean Connery has long said he will return from tax exile to an independent Scotland.
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2012-03-22 13:16
2012-03-22 13:16
I hope the octogenerian gets to do it! Hey, Scotland has free care for the elderly!
Sheriously, though, I’m in my forties and think he’s one of the shexiesht men ever!
Sheriously, though, I’m in my forties and think he’s one of the shexiesht men ever!
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2012-03-22 10:09
2012-03-22 10:09
His attitude reflects what many people south of the border think of the current political situation in Scotland.A one party state headed by a charismatic but dangerous leader who poses a threat to their cosy perception of the world and their place in it.
What they fail to appreciate is that the reason the Scottish electorate rejected their political parties was because they had nothing to offer as an alternative.
I don’t recall such a fuss being made when Labour had an effective monopoly of power in Scotland but that is probably because that one party state was controlled by London and posed no threat to them.
What they fail to appreciate is that the reason the Scottish electorate rejected their political parties was because they had nothing to offer as an alternative.
I don’t recall such a fuss being made when Labour had an effective monopoly of power in Scotland but that is probably because that one party state was controlled by London and posed no threat to them.
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2012-03-22 16:58
2012-03-22 16:58
The irony, of course, is that Holyrood, partly PR, was designed to not ever let any one party to get an absolute majority, because that would be BAD.
While FPTP is the one and only ‘democratic’ way for Westminster, an outdated undemocratic system that results in one-party-dictatorships – except now, when the Tories failed to win.
Oh, it must grate the Tories so much, the SNP win an outright majority on a mixed FPTP/PR system, the Tories fail to secure a majority on a FPTP system… Well, they’ve got their human shields, the LibDems, who will be wiped out come the next GE.
While FPTP is the one and only ‘democratic’ way for Westminster, an outdated undemocratic system that results in one-party-dictatorships – except now, when the Tories failed to win.
Oh, it must grate the Tories so much, the SNP win an outright majority on a mixed FPTP/PR system, the Tories fail to secure a majority on a FPTP system… Well, they’ve got their human shields, the LibDems, who will be wiped out come the next GE.
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2012-03-22 10:16
2012-03-22 10:16
This could really backfire on him, how many people originally from the Middle East who reside this this country can he offend in one show? He would have to tread carefully because minorities can have a bigger voice in foreign media and it just might leave a bad impression of this country in many foreign eyes.
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2012-03-22 10:28
2012-03-22 10:28
Well said 1314. I totally agree with you!! I think the Bloefelt/Scott monument idea sounds like fun.
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2012-03-22 10:29
2012-03-22 10:29
I’m all for political satire, if done well, i.e. intelligently, pointing out the flaws and foibles of all concerned.
Love the idea of a Blofeld-figure stroking a wee white scotty dog. Not too sure about the Ahmadinejad thing, it’s a very fine line, comparing the FM of a democratically elected western parliament with a leader of a less democratic country. Could go either way.
And I hope the other main players in Scottish politics get their fair share of airtime. The clueless jolly-hockey-sticks kick-boxing Ruthie, the I-speak-as-a-mother la Lamentable, Willie who? and some others, such as ‘wee nippy’ Nicola, Jackie ‘I share a blanket’ Baillie, Mike ‘Teflon’ Russell, Murdo ‘I’ll abolish the Tory party’ Fraser, David ‘Taxi’ McLetchie, Richard ‘incoherent lisp’ Baker, Patrick ‘Angry little green man’ Harvie…
Bring it on. A Scottish political satire will maybe stir interest in Scottish politics in the general public, make them realise that the politics of their country are, indeed, separate from the UK thing.
Love the idea of a Blofeld-figure stroking a wee white scotty dog. Not too sure about the Ahmadinejad thing, it’s a very fine line, comparing the FM of a democratically elected western parliament with a leader of a less democratic country. Could go either way.
And I hope the other main players in Scottish politics get their fair share of airtime. The clueless jolly
Bring it on. A Scottish political satire will maybe stir interest in Scottish politics in the general public, make them realise that the politics of their country are, indeed, separate from the UK thing.
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2012-03-22 15:43
2012-03-22 15:43
I doubt Bremner will be doing this for a Scottish audience, could be wrong though. And Salmond is the only politician people outside of Scotland will have heard of.
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2012-03-22 11:01
2012-03-22 11:01
Dear Newsnet,is there a reason my comment and link have been removed from the page?
There is and should you care to discuss the issue further please use the ‘contact us’ facility – NNS Mod Team
There is and should you care to discuss the issue further please use the ‘contact us’ facility – NNS Mod Team
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2012-03-22 12:17
2012-03-22 12:17
Fine, which of the six categories would you prefer me to contact you through?
The ‘send us a private message’ please – NNS Mod Team
The ‘send us a private message’ please – NNS Mod Team
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2012-03-22 16:00
2012-03-22 16:00
Click on the ‘Contact us’ button on the top, progress from there, and your questions will be answered.
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2012-03-22 17:39
2012-03-22 17:39
Thanks you Lumilumi, my question was answered a mere five and a half hours after the asking and my what a cracker it was.
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2012-03-22 18:15
2012-03-22 18:15
Sorry, Mark, but this site is run by volunteers so delays are inevitable. I hope this experience hasn’t put you off.
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2012-03-22 21:35
2012-03-22 21:35
As someone who runs a couple of sites,
one in particular with 11,000 members, administrated only by a handful of people I appreciate that responses can be difficult to come by. What has smacked my gob is the response I finally received.
Here’s my reply to it.
…/newsnet-loses-sense-of-humour-horror.html
Hopefully you’ll be gracious enough to keep this heartfelt plea up and not remove it because it links to a site which, eek, mocks politicians…
one in particular with 11,000 members, administrated only by a handful of people I appreciate that responses can be difficult to come by. What has smacked my gob is the response I finally received.
Here’s my reply to it.
…/newsnet-loses-sense-of-humour-horror.html
Hopefully you’ll be gracious enough to keep this heartfelt plea up and not remove it because it links to a site which, eek, mocks politicians…
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2012-03-22 21:49
2012-03-22 21:49
lol Mark love the Krankies pic.
At the risk of this too disappearing I have to say I do see a bit of a disconnect between the fantastically scurrilous and funny contributions to the site by Paul Kavanagh and the occassionally po faced moderation decisions.
I often wonder how the two can exist on the same site!
At the risk of this too disappearing I have to say I do see a bit of a disconnect between the fantastically scurrilous and funny contributions to the site by Paul Kavanagh and the occassionally po faced moderation decisions.
I often wonder how the two can exist on the same site!
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2012-03-22 21:54
2012-03-22 21:54
Cheers Grassy, if we can’t laugh at ourselves as well as those we disagree with then what bloody use are we. 😉
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2012-03-22 11:02
2012-03-22 11:02
No problem with Rory lampooning Eck. Providing, of course, he portrays himself as Moussa Ibrahim!
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2012-03-22 11:18
2012-03-22 11:18
Who was it on Radio Scotland that used to do Jackie Baillie and Co as stairheid gossips
“Well Jackie Hen dinnae say I told you but Wendy Hen….”
God that was cruel
“Well Jackie Hen dinnae say I told you but Wendy Hen….”
God that was cruel
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2012-03-22 13:33
2012-03-22 13:33
Quoting snowthistle:
It was Jonathon Watson, I thought it was brilliant
You are right, Snowthistle, J.Watson was indeed brilliant, although I don’t recall him taking off Baillie or Alexander. I do however, remember his hilarious “dialogues” between Cathy Jamieson (the original “Sterrheid Rammy”) and “Wee Bridget” McConnell – the wife of the then Labour First Minister.
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2012-03-22 11:19
2012-03-22 11:19
NNS cannot publish comments which advocate or incite criminal behaviour
newsnetscotland.com/…/…
NNS Mod Team
newsnetscotland.com/…/…
NNS Mod Team
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2012-03-22 11:25
2012-03-22 11:25
Good caricature relies on exaggerating a small truth. There’s no truth in Salmond as Ahmadinejad or Blofeld, much as Unionists might wish it were so. I suppose if you’re a fervent Unionist, as Bremner seems to be, then you might view the man who wants to end the Union as evil. It’s unlikely that that view is shared by many outside the BBC and the rest of the UK establishment and so it’s unlikely that such a caricature would resonate with the audience. But if it resonates with BBC Scotland management it will probably still be commissioned.
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2012-03-22 11:50
2012-03-22 11:50
Who needs Tory Bremner to do comic impressions of our Scottish politicians, when we have the likes of the bumbling, gobbledegook-speaking Mundell on Gordon Brewer’s Comedy Half Hour at 11pm.
I couldn’t believe how inept and ill-informed this strange wee man was last night, when GB reduced him to incoherence, as he tried to justify George Osborne cutting the top rate of tax for the super-rich. He actually tried to claim that although the rich were guilty of evading the 50p rate, they would now be eagerly queuing up to pay the new 45p rate!
Brewer ended up treating him with utter contempt, which I’m afraid was all he deserved. Not for the first time I found myself thinking, “How can anyone in his constituency justify voting for this wierd, starey-eyed, yammering wee man to represent them in Westminster?”
I couldn’t believe how inept and ill-informed this strange wee man was last night, when GB reduced him to incoherence, as he tried to justify George Osborne cutting the top rate of tax for the super-rich. He actually tried to claim that although the rich were guilty of evading the 50p rate, they would now be eagerly queuing up to pay the new 45p rate!
Brewer ended up treating him with utter contempt, which I’m afraid was all he deserved. Not for the first time I found myself thinking, “How can anyone in his constituency justify voting for this wierd, starey-eyed, yammering wee man to represent them in Westminster?”
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2012-03-22 12:07
2012-03-22 12:07
Humour is a very important propaganda weapon and has been used extensively in Scotland in the past. Many examples. e.g. the return of McGlashan for a one off pilot (alleged, series never transpired) just before an election in which all he did throughout was racially abuse a nice young Englishman.
Rab C anti-nat specials as well.
Humour seems to hit deeper into the psyche than dry propaganda and has the advantage that anyone objecting to it can be made out to be lacking in sense of humour.
I remember watching a ‘play’ at the Bannockburn centre where Robert the Bruce was played as a clown with a pillow stuffed up his front prancing about and bellowing like Brian Blessed. The bemused look on the tourists faces was embarrassing.
Its a ser fecht.
Rab C anti-nat specials as well.
Humour seems to hit deeper into the psyche than dry propaganda and has the advantage that anyone objecting to it can be made out to be lacking in sense of humour.
I remember watching a ‘play’ at the Bannockburn centre where Robert the Bruce was played as a clown with a pillow stuffed up his front prancing about and bellowing like Brian Blessed. The bemused look on the tourists faces was embarrassing.
Its a ser fecht.
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2012-03-22 13:39
2012-03-22 13:39
Indeed, humour is a very important propaganda weapon.
Imagine AS laughing it off, being portrayed as some tyrant, and LabLibCon politicians getting into a huff about their portrayals. Who wins?
This, of course, hinges on all leading politicians getting poked fun at. If the SNP and AS are the only ones, it’s not political satire but propaganda.
Imagine AS laughing it off, being portrayed as some tyrant, and LabLibCon politicians getting into a huff about their portrayals. Who wins?
This, of course, hinges on all leading politicians getting poked fun at. If the SNP and AS are the only ones, it’s not political satire but propaganda.
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2012-03-22 13:51
2012-03-22 13:51
NNS Team – Thank you for reinstating my first comment – though you did not reinstate the replies.
In the absence of an explanation I can only think that the editing of the article has caused problems with the comments – which is fine and I am sure that an “ooops” and a “mia cupla” would suffice most NNS users who are greatful and appreciative of the efforts the NNS team put into this site.
However, my second comment remains deleted and now my third comment has gone too (along with a reply and my response). This smacks of covering up any criticism, whereas if they had left my last comment (and perhaps given a little explanation as to what has been going on) I would have been delighted and left a gushing thank you. Not good.
This morning’s edit did indeed cause us some problems and we apologise for that.
We would ask you to use the ‘contact us’ facility regarding your replies to another poster where we can more fully explain the moderation policy.
Sincere apologies for this morning’s problems – NNS Mod Team
In the absence of an explanation I can only think that the editing of the article has caused problems with the comments – which is fine and I am sure that an “ooops” and a “mia cupla” would suffice most NNS users who are greatful and appreciative of the efforts the NNS team put into this site.
However, my second comment remains deleted and now my third comment has gone too (along with a reply and my response). This smacks of covering up any criticism, whereas if they had left my last comment (and perhaps given a little explanation as to what has been going on) I would have been delighted and left a gushing thank you. Not good.
This morning’s edit did indeed cause us some problems and we apologise for that.
We would ask you to use the ‘contact us’ facility regarding your replies to another poster where we can more fully explain the moderation policy.
Sincere apologies for this morning’s problems – NNS Mod Team
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2012-03-22 14:30
2012-03-22 14:30
A lot of the unionist arguement turns to personal abuse of AS, and I dont think he bothers about it, it goes to show that reverting to abuse, mainly about his weight, they are losing the debate.
I m not really bothered what Rory Bremner does, hes quite funny, but its worth pointing out that if he riddicules AS alone, then he is just being corny and fitting into the core of the Brit media, it will likely backfire.
I m not really bothered what Rory Bremner does, hes quite funny, but its worth pointing out that if he riddicules AS alone, then he is just being corny and fitting into the core of the Brit media, it will likely backfire.
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2012-03-22 16:19
2012-03-22 16:19
Agree with that.
AS is so well cooked in all kinds of political stews that he won’t mind, just laugh it off.
The point is that if AS and the SNP are the only ones parodied, while the LibLabCon politicians in Scotland aren’t even though they are far more laughable. (From a Scottish point of view.)
So, is the programme made for the English (let’s laugh at the Scots), or for the Scots (let’s laugh at ourselves). There’s a world of difference.
AS is so well cooked in all kinds of political stews that he won’t mind, just laugh it off.
The point is that if AS and the SNP are the only ones parodied, while the LibLabCon politicians in Scotland aren’t even though they are far more laughable. (From a Scottish point of view.)
So, is the programme made for the English (let’s laugh at the Scots), or for the Scots (let’s laugh at ourselves). There’s a world of difference.
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2012-03-22 14:44
2012-03-22 14:44
I think AS would get a laugh about being Portrayed as Blofeldt
BUT the Iranian idea is more insulting than humorous.
I would also like to see the obvious targets in the other parties being satirised too otherwise it iwill just be seen as a unionist ploy.
BUT the Iranian idea is more insulting than humorous.
I would also like to see the obvious targets in the other parties being satirised too otherwise it iwill just be seen as a unionist ploy.
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2012-03-22 15:08
2012-03-22 15:08
Yup.
The Salmond-as-[insert-evil-dictator-here] spot has been done to death. Blofeld would be funny though. We could have cameron as a foppish effete Bond.
The three blind assassins (a la Dr No) the libdem, Tory and labour leaders in Holyrood? William Hague as M?
Who would be Q? Never mind that, who would be Miss Moneypenny? Clegg of course.
You can fit all the comedy bond baddies as and how you please, I think there would be mileage, (Maggrit Curran as Xenia Onnatop anyone?) I just made my self shudder…
I think blofeld might win in this version though.
The Salmond-as-[insert-evil-dictator-here] spot has been done to death. Blofeld would be funny though. We could have cameron as a foppish effete Bond.
The three blind assassins (a la Dr No) the libdem, Tory and labour leaders in Holyrood? William Hague as M?
Who would be Q? Never mind that, who would be Miss Moneypenny? Clegg of course.
You can fit all the comedy bond baddies as and how you please, I think there would be mileage, (Maggrit Curran as Xenia Onnatop anyone?) I just made my self shudder…
I think blofeld might win in this version though.
#
2012-03-22 16:08
2012-03-22 16:08
You just made me lose sleep. M Curran as Xenia Onatopp! Now I’m scared!
William Hague can’t be M, too dumb…… oh, wait!
William Hague can’t be M, too dumb…… oh, wait!
#
2012-03-22 17:08
2012-03-22 17:08
Why was my suggestion of a suitable character for Johanna Lamont deleted while these other suggestions about other politicians are allowed to stand? I have no problem with a moderation policy but it has to be applied consistently, otherwise it is capricious censorship.
#
2012-03-22 17:38
2012-03-22 17:38
I’ve given up trying to work out the secret rules. Some posts disappear, some stay…perhaps someone knows why. None of mine are important enough to worry about.
#
2012-03-23 12:29
2012-03-23 12:29
I wouldn’t want to get moderated again by confirming or denying your speculative query.
#
2012-03-22 17:36
2012-03-22 17:36
Hi Pa,
I think Rory Bremner might be taking a terrible risk if he, as Mr. McBlofeld, uses a Scottie-dog rather than a cat. In my experience they’re crabbit little so-and-so’s. He’s much more likely to have his hand bitten than licked.
Mind you, that might be very funny. Especially if it drew blood. Or is that just me?
Regards
I think Rory Bremner might be taking a terrible risk if he, as Mr. McBlofeld, uses a Scottie-dog rather than a cat. In my experience they’re crabbit little so-and-so’s. He’s much more likely to have his hand bitten than licked.
Mind you, that might be very funny. Especially if it drew blood. Or is that just me?
Regards
#
2012-03-22 18:22
2012-03-22 18:22
No, it’s not just you. I chuckle at the picture…
What’d be the wee terrier’s name? Dave?
What’d be the wee terrier’s name? Dave?
#
2012-03-22 15:59
2012-03-22 15:59
Bremner is a funny guy and I’m quite sure Cameron and the unionists will get a good going over. I would love to see a Johann Lamont impersonation. Imagine Ed Miliband with a Lamont puppet sitting on his lap doing a very bad ventriloquist act (Ed doing most of the talking and Johann mumbling a repetition of what he says). Or even have Cameron and his toffs in the cabinet room of number 10 working out their strategy for the unionist cause. In front of them is a map of the British Isles with ‘England’ written on the full length of Britain. The meeting descends into trying to work out here Scotland is.
I’m here all week folks and no, I’m not giving up the day job.
I’m here all week folks and no, I’m not giving up the day job.
#
2012-03-22 16:05
2012-03-22 16:05
Portraying Salmond like an Iranian dictator? I seem to recall a lot of people being outraged by one single remark by Paxman.
Can anyone please explain what makes Paxman’s remark outrageous and Bremner’s proposed programme funny?
Can anyone please explain what makes Paxman’s remark outrageous and Bremner’s proposed programme funny?
#
2012-03-22 16:09
2012-03-22 16:09
It’s a variation of Godwin’s law. Probably appropriate that it may soon find its way into a comedy show because it is a bit of a joke. Paxo still has no excuse though.
#
2012-03-22 16:39
2012-03-22 16:39
Apparently Lamont has just shown herself up as a Salmond hater again in the Scottish Parliament at Question Time. But it doesn’t matter what kind of fool she makes of herself at FMQ, hardly anyone watches.
Do you people really want the Scottish Labour opposition to put on a weekly Salmond-baiting TV comedy show on prime time on the coat tails of this guy Bremner who is no doubt brighter than all of the elected labour politicians put together, while Lamont and her mob can ctontinue to fail heir voters in the privacy of the parliamentary chamber?
Perhaps I’m missing something here.
I should say that a comedy show with all the Scottish politician we know and love seems an OK idea, but what’s being suggested just sounds a bit Goebellian, getting the usual lies over to an even bigger public.
Do you people really want the Scottish Labour opposition to put on a weekly Salmond-baiting TV comedy show on prime time on the coat tails of this guy Bremner who is no doubt brighter than all of the elected labour politicians put together, while Lamont and her mob can ctontinue to fail heir voters in the privacy of the parliamentary chamber?
Perhaps I’m missing something here.
I should say that a comedy show with all the Scottish politician we know and love seems an OK idea, but what’s being suggested just sounds a bit Goebellian, getting the usual lies over to an even bigger public.
#
2012-03-22 16:09
2012-03-22 16:09
Rory Bremner’s impression of an enthusiastic British nationalist with a Daily Mail style understanding of Scottish politics is quite stunningly brilliant.
He should work this new character into the show.
He should work this new character into the show.
#
2012-03-22 16:15
2012-03-22 16:15
I wonder how he would portray us cybernats, would there be a mimicking of NNS ?
Now that could really get us on the map !
Now that could really get us on the map !
#
2012-03-22 17:13
2012-03-22 17:13
Duh!
Cybernats would, of course, be portrayed as swivel-eyed, foaming-at-the-mouth madmen/women.
Oh, a Labour MSP has just raised a ‘point of order’ about bloody BLANKETS!
I think a political satire should depict all Lab MSPs wearing/clutching their BLANKETS.
Cybernats would, of course, be portrayed as swivel-eyed, foaming-at-the-mouth madmen/women.
Oh, a Labour MSP has just raised a ‘point of order’ about bloody BLANKETS!
I think a political satire should depict all Lab MSPs wearing/clutching their BLANKETS.
#
2012-03-22 16:17
2012-03-22 16:17
“A Comedy of Errors”? If it wasn’t so serious.
David Mundel MP,Scotland Office Minister,Whiteh all,beamed worldwide on Youtube today.
Colleague of Michael Moore,Secretary of State for Scotland.Scotland Office.Whitehall.
www.youtube.com/…/
Thanks to BBC and YouTube.
David Mundel MP,Scotland Office Minister,Whiteh all,beamed worldwide on Youtube today.
Colleague of Michael Moore,Secretary of State for Scotland.Scotland Office.Whitehall.
www.youtube.com/…/
Thanks to BBC and YouTube.
#
2012-03-22 16:53
2012-03-22 16:53
I can’t see Bremner being interested in lampooning any Scottish politician other than Alex Salmond. If the opposition leaders are nonetities up here, can you see the blank looks south of the border??
#
2012-03-22 17:21
2012-03-22 17:21
Yes, if it’s going to be a UK-wide thing. Then just bash AS, and the Scots. Propaganda.
If it was a Scottish thing… But the ex-pat Scot comedian obviously knows nothing about modern Scotland, being so brainwashed in Englandshire.
If it was a Scottish thing… But the ex-pat Scot comedian obviously knows nothing about modern Scotland, being so brainwashed in Englandshire.
#
2012-03-22 18:26
2012-03-22 18:26
Yes, that’s the way I would assume this game.
The opposition non-entities are not going to be recognised anywhere, so they’ll not be in this show.
If the BBC are involved, this will be purely a knock_Alex_Salm ond show.
The opposition non-entities are not going to be recognised anywhere, so they’ll not be in this show.
If the BBC are involved, this will be purely a knock_Alex_Salm ond show.
#
2012-03-22 18:45
2012-03-22 18:45
Which could work in favour of indy. Despite all BBC and unionist efforts, the Scots aren’t the sheeple they were in the late 1970s.
Show them exactly what the English, the establishement, think of them. It’ll hurt but should add a few more yes-indy votes.
Show them exactly what the English, the establishement, think of them. It’ll hurt but should add a few more yes-indy votes.
#
2012-03-22 17:16
2012-03-22 17:16
I posted a comment here four hours ago, but for some reason it hasn’t gone up.
Think you’re all getting ahead of yourselves. Lighten up. I’ve done shows about all sorts of politicians. Why should Alex Salmond be any different? I’ve met him, he’s a big politician, bright, good sense of humour. (unlike some on this site)
This isn’t a BBC show (so not part of a conspiracy). I said in the interview (which newsnet have selectively edited) that I was keen to get my head round scottish politics and make a programme.
As it happens I like quite a few SNP policies (tuition fees, care for elderly) and defend them against my English Toff friends. I could yet be persuaded about independence- but not if your arguments revolve around me being an English toff second rate impressionist. Get it right. I’m a Scottish toff, first rate impressionist. Born here, bought a house here, involved and committed to a lot of charities here.
Might even buy Rangers. No, hang on, that’s somebody else.
So cheer up guys. You’ll need a few laughs and as I said I’ve yet to get my head round all this stuff so it’s early days. As with all my other programmes I won’t be peddling anyone’s line but my own.
But you’ve already given me some very useful material.
Think you’re all getting ahead of yourselves. Lighten up. I’ve done shows about all sorts of politicians. Why should Alex Salmond be any different? I’ve met him, he’s a big politician, bright, good sense of humour. (unlike some on this site)
This isn’t a BBC show (so not part of a conspiracy). I said in the interview (which newsnet have selectively edited) that I was keen to get my head round scottish politics and make a programme.
As it happens I like quite a few SNP policies (tuition fees, care for elderly) and defend them against my English Toff friends. I could yet be persuaded about independence- but not if your arguments revolve around me being an English toff second rate impressionist. Get it right. I’m a Scottish toff, first rate impressionist. Born here, bought a house here, involved and committed to a lot of charities here.
Might even buy Rangers. No, hang on, that’s somebody else.
So cheer up guys. You’ll need a few laughs and as I said I’ve yet to get my head round all this stuff so it’s early days. As with all my other programmes I won’t be peddling anyone’s line but my own.
But you’ve already given me some very useful material.
#
2012-03-22 19:20
2012-03-22 19:20
Hey, Rory, nice of you to come by.
I suppose I also ought to apologise for my ‘Englandshire’ comment above. Heat of the moment, not really thinking it through, you know how it is, blah blah. Sorry.
I think it’d be great to lampoon Alex Salmond (the obvious target), but also many other Scottish politicians of various parties. Intelligent political satire is always a good thing. Cheap shots at the obvious isn’t very entertaining. But I’m sure you know that. 😉
If you can’t laugh at yourself, life really isn’t worth living. (I wish somebody told la Lamentable because she looks about to burst into tears all the time.)
I suppose I also ought to apologise for my ‘Englandshire’ comment above. Heat of the moment, not really thinking it through, you know how it is, blah blah. Sorry.
I think it’d be great to lampoon Alex Salmond (the obvious target), but also many other Scottish politicians of various parties. Intelligent political satire is always a good thing. Cheap shots at the obvious isn’t very entertaining. But I’m sure you know that. 😉
If you can’t laugh at yourself, life really isn’t worth living. (I wish somebody told la Lamentable because she looks about to burst into tears all the time.)
#
2012-03-22 17:52
2012-03-22 17:52
Bring it on, I say, if you can’t laugh at yourself and your own people, then you dont have the right to laugh at others.
I’m looking forward to it.
I’m looking forward to it.
#
2012-03-22 18:26
2012-03-22 18:26
Call me old fashioned but I prefer my satire to have some basis in reality rather than bandwagon stereotypes.
Whats next for Mr Bremner? A Jamican with dreds that smokes lots of dope, and sits around under a pineapple tree all day telling people to relax?
Whats next for Mr Bremner? A Jamican with dreds that smokes lots of dope, and sits around under a pineapple tree all day telling people to relax?
#
2012-03-22 18:03
2012-03-22 18:03
O/S. Sorry for Referring to a new topic but labour hame has a new article saying that N. Sturgeon said something to the effect ” that voting labour causes stillbirths”
And of course Duncan agreed that it was a well researched article.
(it is a lie as her statement says nothing of the sort)
And of course Duncan agreed that it was a well researched article.
(it is a lie as her statement says nothing of the sort)
#
2012-03-22 18:23
2012-03-22 18:23
So the person who wrote the ‘Scotland would have relied on England’ article on the BBC website is now writing for Labour Hame? Must have been talent-spotted.
#
2012-03-22 19:14
2012-03-22 19:14
So let me get this right, Rory Bremner is going to portray Alex Salmond as a version of a no doubt fat and with shite fake tan applied Iranian President Ahmadinejad in a satire programme on the independence debate? Fine. As Burns said ‘oh what a gift to gie us’ etc. Please note that his intention is to move ‘back’, that says everything. Mr Bremner may or may not support independance, however the very fact he is moving ‘back’ suggests to me that he kens damn fine on which side his bread is buttered and it is towards a society that provides free education for all regardless of the ability to pay, a society that actually cares for the aged and sick, a society that pulls together for the benefit of all. I may be wrong, but I think this might just be funny.
#
2012-03-22 19:54
2012-03-22 19:54
The fact that Rory is coming back to Scotland is significant. London is frankly starting to look a bit provincial and dated in the wider global scheme of things. London TV is pretty cringeworthy nowadays lets face it. ‘The One Show’, BBC Breakfast Time – God forbid – how embarrassing.
#
2012-03-22 20:21
2012-03-22 20:21
I think Bremner should have Cameron, Clegg and Osbourne as millionaire toffs who don’t give a damm about Scotland, pensioners ………. blast…. they are doing it already…..
OK who could play Pontius Pilate
Judas,
…………..
OK who could play Pontius Pilate
Judas,
…………..
#
2012-03-22 20:47
2012-03-22 20:47
Quote:
“…I have a lovely idea of turning Alex into a version of Iranian President Ahmadinejad.”
I think Bremner is totally out of touch with Scotland. I don’t think portraying Alex Salmond as a hate figure will go down well with a great many Scots while we’re in the run up to the most important referendum this country has ever had.
I have a lovely idea of turning Bremner into a Scottish version of Uncle Tom.
#
2012-03-22 21:10
2012-03-22 21:10
Ok either the man himself was here about 1720 telling us to lighten up or I imagined the whole thing….was it a wind up or is he in moderation like mere civilians?
#
2012-03-22 22:23
2012-03-22 22:23
Bremner is past his sell by date. Every now and then the media takes him out of the cupboard, dust him down and give him an airing, but these are getting fewer.
If he intends to refresh his career by mocking Salmond he should forget it.
I wonder if this is something thought up by, “I’ll do everything in my power…”, Cameron or his action committee?
If he intends to refresh his career by mocking Salmond he should forget it.
I wonder if this is something thought up by, “I’ll do everything in my power…”, Cameron or his action committee?
#
2012-03-22 22:46
2012-03-22 22:46
O/T but if you want a real laugh try this: www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17457729
In particular the line: “But some people have criticised the outfits as ‘too blue’ and looking more Scottish than British.”
I wonder who these ‘some people’ are?
In particular the line: “But some people have criticised the outfits as ‘too blue’ and looking more Scottish than British.”
I wonder who these ‘some people’ are?
#
2012-03-22 23:54
2012-03-22 23:54
I prefer my comedy to have a point rather than just be based on a personal grudge.
I’d imagine, though, that they will be pishing themselves in Iran to see their main man being portrayed as someone who rejects nuclear weapons.
I’d imagine, though, that they will be pishing themselves in Iran to see their main man being portrayed as someone who rejects nuclear weapons.
#
2012-03-23 07:29
2012-03-23 07:29
I am relaxed about politicians of any creed being skewered by the likes of Bremner. It’s healthy. I am not too sure about the nuclear sub thing, though, because the vast majority of Scotland want rid of it. I am all for swords to ploughshares but subs to central heating is a bit far fetched. Maybe I am just a bit too sensitive about the topic: I regard those subs as an abomination and want them gone – I don’t see any room for humour in that sentiment.
#
2012-03-23 09:46
2012-03-23 09:46
Maybe he could balance the AS impersonation with an equal impersonation of some off the “impartial and voice of reason BBC Scotland commentators” he might find that a bit more difficult to be convincing. Roll on 2014
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