I remember catching the TV series on a re-run about 12 years ago, Loved it, then went straight out and bought the "Second" book, Restaurant At The End Of The Universe.
Of course a couple of chapters in, everything started to look familier.. Welcome to the world of multiple versions of the story. I've spent time since then reading everything I could possibly get my hands on from good old Douglas, even the postumosly released Salmon Of Doubt bits. Then there's the radio series too... with new episodes of the original books still being made.
It's the slight Kink DNA's views of the world that got me. The relaxed approach to impending disaster and the almost casual way momentous events are just sidled up to and poked.
The movie was okay...some nice moments in it, although Marvin was a bit underused. I liked the different approach to Zaphod's character. But, inevitabley it was aimed at a more Main Stream audience, obviously to make sure it made money (which makes sense). It may well have created some interest in the "Real" HHGTTG books though, turning a few more unspecting individuals into Researchers For The Guide.
"There's an art to flying, more of knack. Learn to throw yourself at the ground.... and miss."