Desert Island DVDs: Mid Compositor, Niamh Scott

I’m not sure how I came to be on a desert island but let's assume I wanted coastal escape away from everyone, which sounds like me. So armed with my magical DVD playing device I need three flicks that are going to serve me some maxin’ relaxin’ as well as the inspiration to eventually get off the island, probably after I become too sun-burnt to function.

Full disclaimer: I am a sad loss in the film industry, ask me if I’ve seen any cult classics or critically acclaimed films, chances are I’ll say no. My go-tos are 80s rom-coms and anything that’ll make me cry, therefore if you are expecting profound accounts of movie nuance and descriptions of beautiful mis-en-scene, you'll be disappointed.

Top Gun - Tony Scott

This pick will come as no surprise to anyone who knows me. I will take Top Gun with me to the end of the earth thus it is only natural that it's with me in my sandy paradise.  

I watched Top Gun for the first time around age 18 after being asked to recall ‘Goose’s’ real name in a pub quiz. (Just so you know, that’s not an easy q, it’s mentioned once.) I then re-watched it every so often to the point where I can now probably recite you the script.   

Initially, the soundtrack and quippy dialogue are what pulled me in but now its familiarity is a great source of comfort and helps me massively with anxious or iffy brain days which might be useful for when the weather takes a turn for the worst or the heat-stroke hallucinations have kicked in. 

Palm Springs - Max Barbakow

Whilst I’m all for a good cry at a decent rom-com, I’ve chosen Palm Springs for more than just its feel-good vibes and the happy ending. 

Palm Springs would provide a fun but also practical element to my secluded vacay. Besides having excellent re-watch value, it's fun and laid-back approach to the groundhog day formula would give me something to relate and strive towards to during the monotony of island life.  

Moreover, there is further island lifestyle inspo to be taken; depending on the day, I could choose to search for a magical cave and quantum physics myself off the island OR I could float around on an inflatable with a strong drink....  

Mamma Mia! - Phyllida Lloyd

Last but by no means least is Mamma Mia, providing the only soundtrack suitable for such an environment. If whilst stranded in the middle of nowhere, you can’t imagine you’re on a Greek island whilst belting out Abba tunes why bother? It is the perfect bop for livening up the inevitable mundane tasks. 

Beyond the dopamine hit from nailing every lyric, think of the exercise I'll be getting in? Every single song has choreography which is just a fitness routine waiting to happen.

Yes, I'll look absolutely barmy crawling around on the beach on my own but at least I’m making the most of it and it’ll certainly attract the attention of any passing rescue boat.