In fact, that is quite possibly the reason behind the phenomenal
success of the show - and it's knack for gaining respectability - is
from the quality of the stars at appear on the program. So often,
Australian talk shows simply look like shitty crossover promotions -
with their own networks "stars" coming on as guest, because no
Americans of any relevance bother flying across the sea to our shores.
The early days of Rove, to the woeful caliber of Micallef Tonight (since when do Gav and Waz from The Block - a
show that had finished almost a year earlier - count as credible
guests?) Australia has just never seemed to have the depth of talent to
support a one night a week talk show, let alone a five night a week
affair like Letterman or Leno. But somehow, Denton pulls in a big name every single week. In
this first collection of "Superstar" interviews, there is barely and
unrecognisable name in sight. From an always chirpy John Travolta (who
seems to be here every second week, no doubt having nothing to do with
the multi million dollar deal he has with Qantas), to the charming and
sincere Antonio Banderas to the somewhat pompous - but likable -
Richard E. Grant. There's a good dose of Aussie faces in there as
well, real stars - not reality TV rejects, of the likes of Jack
Thompson, Cate Blanchett, Without A Trace's Anthony LaPaglia and that (now eerie) interview with Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. Denton
has always had the knack of being able to get past the facade of his
guests, the promotional facade all entertainers seem to put up. Some
buckle under the pressure, some simply aren't interested in being there
and some (like Irwin) give everything they have. It's riveting viewing. DVD
Extras Sadly,
nothing on offer here. It would have been nice to have a few behind the
scenes looks on how the show is researched (Denton has one of the best
research teams in TV), or even a few of the "Show and Tell" segments -
although, that would kind of contradict the "Screen Stars" title. Conclusion:
Movie 80% Extras: N/A 
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