How much notice do YOU take of film and TV critics?

Do you ever read critic’s reviews of films, shows and TV programmes? I do. But do you, like me, usually ignore their overall assessment and go with your gut instinct?

Let me give you a couple of examples. Firstly there was last year’s smash hit at the cinema, La La Land. All critics gave it outstanding reviews so we (well, SWMBO) thought it must be worth seeing.

SWMBO loved it – I felt that it was two hours and eight minutes of my life that I would never get back.

Then there is Bohemian Rhapsody, the story of Freddie Mercury (mainly) and Queen from the early 1970s to Live Aid in 1985 currently showing in a cinema near you. This film was given a roasting by critics but we both loved it.

And don’t get me started on the “new” BBC series of Dr Who. Every TV expert has slammed it, saying it is too PC, trying to address such issues as mental illness, gender issues, sexuality, racial equality, men giving birth (?) etc. etc.

I have watched every episode to date and hadn’t really noticed all this PC stuff the critics are talking about. I have just enjoyed brilliant writing, an excellent new Doctor (apparently it’s a woman) and a sprinkling of interesting aliens.

I should add that SWMBO is not as enamoured as I am with Dr Who but then isn’t it all a matter of opinion, a matter of choice?

Critics have their place but please don’t take too much notice of their reviews. Go with your gut instincts.

Back in October I wrote Is it influence or just pure coincidence? while having a moment about the HSBC banking app.

You will recall I got a message telling me I have to update the app but whenever I tried to I was informed that my iPad and iPhone operating systems no longer supported the new app. As my bank was not prepared to buy me a new tablet and phone I was resigned to losing this very useful tool.

It then appeared that I have some influence as the app did stop working on the pre-determined date as stated but then, rather miraculously, it started working again.

Then, earlier this month, the app stopped – it was simply a case of delay rather than influence. There. Now you know.

Mobile detection trial is Norfolk and good

Apparently Norfolk's going to be the first county in the UK to trial a new roadside mobile phone detection system.

The technology can identify what type of signal is being transmitted or received by a handset inside a vehicle and whether it is being used via the vehicle’s Bluetooth. At first glance this is a very sensible and responsible measure.

But what if you have a passenger in the back using his/her mobile? Time for a re-think, I fear.

It is very remiss of me that I haven’t kept my reader updated about my Google earnings from my witterings in IDGOM.

So, you will be pleased to know that my earnings to date (it’ll be four years in January since number 1) from your click-throughs on this site’s ads is…drum roll, please…..£9.65.

Unfortunately I won’t see a penny for some time as “your payment will be sent once your payment threshold is reached." And what is my “payment threshold? That’ll be £60.00.

So, based on my earnings to date, which work out at a mighty 21 pence a month I can look forward to a nice little bonus in around 240 months– or 20 years in new money.

Unless, of course, Google change “the payment threshold” again.

Wayne Rooney has been recalled to the England squad for a one-off cap against the USA.

Southgate and the FA have decided to include Rooney for the upcoming friendly on November 15.

The match will be called The Wayne Rooney Foundation International in support of Rooney's charitable interests, and the DC United striker is expected to win his 120th cap at Wembley.

No, no, no. This is SO wrong. By all means donate the match proceeds to Rooney’s Foundation or let his children be ball boys.

But give him a 120^th cap? Shame on you, Gareth Southgate and the FA – England caps have to be won, not given out like sweets at Trick or Treat time.

The great Bobby Moore will be turning in his grave.