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Thanks mattrom.
I had dismissed an anagram of slowly.
As there are at least two short words for an island chain, I was sure one of them was involved.

Asking for more help!
I now have the theme, the quote, the character, and know how the endgame will work.
But still struggling in SE corner, if someone would assist me with reel 36, and also 25a would be a huge help.

Thanks, I have now completed every aspect of the puzzle, it was a tough one!

Actually I don't understand 39a but answer must be right!

Judge as in rate or opine; definition is last word (only).

Enjoyed that very much. Nice construction and tough but fair clues.

About half way through and I think only one clue has not been a cold solve. It’s an excellent puzzle so far, and I am enjoying it, but it’s definitely not a crossword

Have all the reel answers,but don't understand 2d,I'm pretty sure it's just a double definition but can't see 'project',must have something wrong but I don't think so

It’s a botanical term, which I learnt from doing these. Think of a word for pilot (nautical) and look up all the definitions

Earmaniac, I presume you mean 2a. If you have the right answer, the second definition in Chambers has 'project'.
This was one of two clues where there are perfectly sound alternative answers, the other being 31d.