The latest in our series of writers detailing their most easily rewatched comfort films is an appreciation of a smart, funny and tender ode to fan culture

“By Grabthar’s hammer, by the sons of Worvan … you shall be avenged.”

If you have seen Galaxy Quest, those words may bring you close to tears. They mark the moment when Alan Rickman’s character – a Shakespearean luvvie turned sci-fi sidekick – realises that the ludicrous catchphrase he has reluctantly uttered thousands of times does matter after all.

Following the anniversary of the actor’s death, fans recall his joy at a train platform mishap, enthusing about experimental theatre and an embarrassed double-take

• ‘I fell in love with him on the spot’: friends remember Alan Rickman, 10 years after his death

One of the highlights of my late wife’s life involved Alan Rickman. Returning to university in Manchester in the mid-90s for a new term, she was attempting to put on an enormous rucksack full of books (she did English). As she managed to get the thing on, she experienced an error in balance, fell backwards and laid on the platform, wiggling her arms and legs like an inverted tortoise, unable to move.

On the anniversary of his death aged 69, stars from Sigourney Weaver to Sharleen Spiteri, Tom Felton to Harriet Walter, remember the wit, charm and endless generosity of one of Britain’s best-loved actors

Ruby Wax