We have very few of the expected Banksian thrills; in their place, though, is a recognition of the power of fiction to fundamentally alter the reader's consciousness that owes much to Banks's alter ego as a writer of space operas.
Unfortunately, the novelty of the old effects is somewhat lost on "kids these days," who expect more thrill, and probably found the dated scare tactics a little fusty.
But don't expect lurid thrills.
Anyone expecting a thrilling duel would have been disappointed with the tactical dullness.
Don't expect quick thrills or biting wit; this is a Prokofiev Five built on gravitas and reflection, and for that it is glorious.
Meanwhile, the lesson from 2008-09 is clear - expect a thrilling end to the current season.
One guesses Reeves' real concern is to deliver the thrills expected in a summer franchise movie.
She has more recognition, she said, than she ever expected, and is thrilled to accept this new award, but "only if it's a midcareer honor".
We're expected to be thrilled by the news that some festival you'll never got to got a new license which means you'll be able to enjoy the truly tepid experience of Todd Terje's live band at Heathrow-runway level volume.
Monaghan expected Martin to be thrilled, but he seemed troubled.
