A recent collection of letters to the Guardian has highlighted reader reactions to a major animated sequel, the departure of a beloved columnist, and some characteristically British debates.
Disney's Animated Allegory Earns Applause
One reader has directly challenged film critic Peter Bradshaw's assertion that no mainstream film is confronting Donald Trump's administration directly. Peter Kettle from Gravesend, Kent, wrote in after taking his granddaughters to see Zootropolis 2.
He praised the film's storyline, where the diverse detective duo of fox Nick Wilde and rabbit Judy Hopps takes on a narcissistic leader named Milton Lynxley. Mr Kettle interpreted the plot as a clear demonstration of the importance and joy of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles, concluding with a hearty "Well done, Disney!" for tackling contemporary political themes.
A Fond Farewell to a Journalistic "Giant"
The letters section also served as a tribute to Martin Kettle, following the announcement that his weekly column for the newspaper would be his last. The final piece, titled "The world of today looks bad, but take hope: we've been here before and got through it – and we will again," was published on 15 January.
Reader Malcolm Bower from Gunnislake, Cornwall, expressed sadness at the departure, stating that journalism will have "lost a giant." He commended Kettle for his brilliant prose, shrewd political analysis, and fierce intellect, sentiments likely shared by many regular readers.
Quirky Anecdotes and Geographic Debates
In lighter contributions, Peter Walton from London recalled his late friend, the humorist Miles Kington, who once claimed to be training a small dog to change a double duvet cover. Walton noted he was unsure how far the training had progressed before Kington's untimely death.
The perennial British debate over where the north of England begins also surfaced. Peter Gray from Chesterfield, Derbyshire, offered a linguistic test, suggesting "you're only there if you're dotting the ayes," a reference to the distinctive northern pronunciation of the word 'the'.
Meanwhile, James Cassidy from Norwich shared an anecdote from a filming trip to Inverness, where a local pub owner, upon learning the crew were from Glasgow, remarked "Ah, down south" – a humorous reminder that perceptions of geography are always relative.
The Guardian continues to invite readers to submit their opinions on any topic covered by the publication for potential inclusion in its daily letters section.
