“HOW do you explain this frivolous spending during a recession?” demands one of the characters of our eponymous hero early in Arthur (12A), in a bid to deflect audience resentment at the sight of Russell Brand playing a playboy billionaire who wastes thousands of dollars at every hand’s turn.

Why, we must wonder, has Hollywood taken so strongly to the charmless Brand, and whoever thought we needed a remake of the classic Dudley Moore comedy, with Brand inadequately trying to entertain us?

Helen Mirren intimidated ‘Arthur’ director Jason Winer so much he had to read up about tea etiquette before they met, thinking she might judge him on how he stirred his brew.

Tom Hanks and James Cameron will be honoured during the 22nd annual Producers Guild Awards.

Helen Mirren has joined the cast of 'Arthur'.