Finally got around to watching it and very different from what I remember. Enjoyable but probably not a classic. Great cast but the plot didn't quite seem to hang together. Watching the extras Clement says something along those lines and how the book didn't make any sense. Considering it was his first attempt at movie directing though turned out well.
Had to do a double take when I thought i saw Emma Thompson. She looks so like her mother. It was also a reminder of what versatile actor Tom Courtney can be.
Did make me search for The Jokers but looks like its not available yet.