The Terminal

[Gareth O]

The web info on the new released movie The Terminal seems to state that it is an origional story, however, I have the distinct feeling that I have read a book (maybe 20 years ago) that had a similar story-line. Can anybody give me a clue as to whether I am imaging reading this book or not?

[tracymort]

i don't know about the book but i did see on the news that the film is based loosley on a true story. http://www.bbc.co.uk/films/2004/08/27/the_terminal_2004_revi ew.shtml

[LeMarchand]

I read it was "inspired by" a true story. Having read that BBC article, I can see why they are now downplaying this. (I guess they don't need to give the guy royalties either!) Oh - you're probably not imagining it, as it is based on real life, even if the studio is no longer trumpeting this.

[stoo_pid]

The Terminal was loosely based on the experiences of Merhan Karimi Nasseri (who believe it or not is *still* stuck at Charles de Gaulle aiport after 18 years!). It has been reported that he was paid a few hundred thousand dollars for his story. There was also a French film made about 10 years ago called Tomb�s du Ciel (again, loosely) based on the same guy. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108359/

[johnny_wark]

He was also 'used' in a low-budget 'mockumentary', "Here to Where" (2001) http://www.adelaidefilmfestival.org/97cee86b95b3395b11b7b221 91955ab8/films/details/26