Page 13 - Transporter Talk Issue 144

I was asked to drive Mavis down a very steep hill to a small sandy cove where there is a beautiful view of the river and an old boat house. “Drive her on to the sand a bit” I was told, whilst surveying the green tinged last few cobbles of the so- called road, I didn’t think this was the best idea but was persuaded by the crew. So I drove half on and then reversed a bit to see if she’d get o again and she wasn’t going anywhere, well and truly stuck! This was when I realised how friendly everyone was as they all chipped in with pushing and pulling to get Mavis back on to rmer ground. During the rest of the day’s shoot, Mavis only moved about 3 feet and it took till gone 6pm to wrap the scene which lasts about 90secs on screen! Once this shoot was nished, we had to negotiate the very steep hill again, this proved to be a challenging ascent which was assisted by the 4x4 Mule usually used to transport lighting rigs and camera equipment.
The second day of lming was eventful in a di erent way, no steep slippery slopes but lming in the centre of Dartmouth. It was here that I learnt Mavis’ role was a getaway vehicle and I also learnt the sense of humour underpinning the show! When I was told that they would hi-jack a security van and bundle someone into the back of Mavis I laughed because I know that all things T2 happen at their own usual relaxed pace.
The rst take was in progress when the “Pirate” tried to quickly open the door, he used a few nautical phrases that were heard echoing around the Dart Valley. I o ered a solution for myself to crouch inside the van and persuade the door to open with my foot as the handle was pulled down. The director agreed to try this and it was a successful 2nd take.
Our rst experience with the Beeb was very interesting and fun. I’m not sure we get to see Mavis at her best, or any of the really fun scenes, but I will keep my eye out for the out-take shows!
Transporter Talk No 144
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