The Singing Detective (2003 Keith Gordon)

Yes, that Keith Gordon, who has recently directed episodes of Fargo, Homeland and Dexter, and before that was an actor in Jaws 2, Christine and Dressed to Kill.

Was Dennis Potter ever any good? I'm not at all sure now. His material is deeply unappealing and seedy, and he does not seem to have a very good opinion of women.

Downey is great of course (so is the make-up); Mel Gibson a revelation as the psychiatrist (great make-up). With Robin Wright Penn, Jeremy Northam, Katie Holmes, Adrien Brody, Jon Polito, Carla Gugino, Alfre Woodard (not in it enough), Saul Rubinek (not in it enough). When people aren't in it enough, maybe that's a suggestion there are too many characters?

The make-up is masterminded by Greg Cannom and Keith Vanderlaan. Stylish, contrasty photography by Tom Richmond (still no relation)

Gibson put up the money for his mate Downey's insurance bond.