A Guardian writer reflects on The Dish, the 2000 Australian film starring the late Sam Neill, as their choice for a favourite feelgood movie in a series where contributors pick comfort films. The piece was prompted by the shock of Neill's recent death, with the writer recalling how much his roles, including Dr Alan Grant in Jurassic Park, meant to them growing up, before turning to their deeper attachment to his performance as scientist Cliff Buxton in The Dish.

Directed by Rob Sitch, the film dramatises the true story of the Parkes radio telescope team in Australia who helped relay television footage of the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing. The writer praises its blend of warmth, sharp comic writing and a memorable ensemble cast, including Tom Long, Kevin Harrington, Patrick Warburton and Roy Billing, alongside its evocative sound design and score. They also share a personal memory of watching the film with their late sister, describing it as a source of enduring comfort and laughter.