Why I would chose Matthew McFadyen to play Alan in 'Beneath the Perfect World' movie.

I don't know whether this happens to all novelist, but when I was dreaming up 'Beneath the Perfect World' I had this idea that one day it might become a movie. Alan's character came about after watching Matthew McFadyen's portrayal of Paul Prior in 'In My Father's Den.' Matthew is my eye candy, made all the more sexy by playing a flawed character who you can sympathise with. His whole demeanour in the film was one I wanted to replicate in Alan. Humbled but self-assured, troubled but stoic but will crack under extreme pressure. My editor called Alan a wimp at one stage in the novel because he breaks when things get really tough. Perhaps she expected him to be a romantic hero, but that doesn't make him real.

Even down to the scruffy clothing, Matthew's ability to look good in them makes him the perfect Alan. He's a big bloke, too, and the snagged jumps make him seem so cosy to snuggle up to. He'd have to tone up a bit to suit the role of a fit bloke into mountain biking. If Tom Hanks can do it so can Matthew. I'm not sure whether Matthew would suit black shaggy locks, but it's not imperative he has them. The way he carries himself makes for a more accurate portrayal of my protagonist. And of course, the most obvious reason, he's simply gorgeous.