Stephen Frears took Nick Hornby's romcom bestseller - about the ups and downs of a thirtysomething vinyl record shop owner and compulsive list-maker - and bravely transposed it from London's Camden Town to downtown Chicago. The resulting film - released in 2000 - works to a degree, but with reservations.
John Cusack (pictured) is superb in the lead role as Rob Gordon, ably supported by shop assistants Dick (Todd Louiso) and Barry (an excellent performance from Jack Black, threatening to steal the show). The slick script really flies as Cusack loses his girlfriend, attempts to date a singer, and examines his failed attempts at romance and happiness.
But what was charming and believable about the original book - based in a tiny and claustophobic Camden record hovel where rare indie vinyl is as treasured as platinum - is completely lost here. Transposed to a huge Chicago record store, the premise feels clunky and false.
Still worth watching though, especially Cusack's knowing asides to the camera and Jack Black's OTT turn.
High Fidelity is a Film programme that first aired in 2000 and has been classified a 15 certificate.
