The Chunnel

Saturday, June 4th, 2005

A quick note on the Chunnel train from London to Paris..
It's a great train service. I really thought it to be a wonderful way to travel.
I wasn't expecting full airport style security though, including x-ray. My short ends all got blasted. When I gave them to the security agent and tried to explain, he just read me the line - no damage will be done. I tried to show him the TSA letter and mention the changing bag. When he heard that, he literally just chucked the film into x-ray and said: "Too late now. Next." Absolutely the rudest experience I've had in any country dealing with film and x-ray. I am SO SO glad that all my fresh stock for Zambia is in storage in London.

If you are taking this train and are carrying gear, definitely have a porter escort you through. Its speeds up the process immensely, even though they have no control over security.

Other notes:
I prepared an equipment list for temporary importation to Zambia. I've sent it to Cher (the FORGE Director), who in turn is going to pass it along to UNHCR. They have already agreed to support the process if it hits any issues. Once again, UNHCR offers support, and it is appreciated.

Tom apparently already completed the translations for the footage I sent ahead with him. I'll work those into the rough cut in Meheba and see what happens.

I love Paris, and I'm over jetlag. Looks like I'm actually going to get a week of rest before the shoot! :)

David Mallin