Kiwi lad-lit from debut author William Brandt.

“There are only two reasons for going back to New Zealand to live. One, you’ve got kids. Two, you’ve failed. I don’t have kids.” So says our maudlin movie producer narrator, who’s just refused money from his parents for the first time. He’s 42.

Middle-aged, self-pitying-but-witty heroes are staples of lad-lit (hello again, Tony Parsons and Nick Hornby), and Kiwi Frederick Case is no exception - failing big-time in the London film business while his famous ex-wife cavorts with her co-star from the rather tasteful movie, Shag City. Cue a predictably humiliating quest to get her back.

Even Woody Allen can’t do funny neurotic these days, so it’s to Brandt’s credit that he gleans humour from his washed-out character and creates some sparkling dialogue. It’s just a shame he chose this genre for his first and otherwise enjoyable novel – been there, got the T-shirt. (6/10) Laura Bushell 11 July 03

The Book Of The Film Of The Story Of My Life by William Brandt is out now.

useful link: random house: the book of the film of the story of my life