Upcoming U.S. TV appearances of Judi Dench

COMMENTS

Here are the covers for the DVD of Nine. As you can see from the photos above Judi didn't make it to the cover of either the US or UK editions. The UK version is available for pre-order (it will be released on April 12, 2010) at the Atgbcentral UK store. If you click on the Amazon.com Atgbcentral store you will see it listed as unavailable. You can go directly to the store to put your name on the list for notification when more details are known. In any case remember that, as always, I'll notify you in plenty of time to pre-order in the U.S. and Canada.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tueday, March 9, 2010 at 8:49 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Monday, March 8, 2010 at 3:58 (PDT)

This information has been floating around the internet for the past month or so, but now there's actually a title attached to the book so I'm thinking that this is really a pretty done deal. I'll let you know more when it is actually time to pre-order.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, March 8, 2010 at 9:35 (PDT)

While I'm updating the site I thought let you know that there is a new book called Peter Hall's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' by Roger Warren that I've posted in the atgbcentral stores. It has not yet been released, but I found out a little more about it today. You can pre-order in the UK and Canadian stores right now or click on Amazon.com to put your name on this list to be notified when the book becomes available here in the U.S. (it shows in the store that it is unavailable at this time.) I know very little about the book, except that it is a paperback that I believe will be released in the UK on May 1, 2010. I found a blurb about it today that this is what it said: PETER HALL'S 'A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM' ROGER WARREN Illustrated throughout with photographs An inside look at putting on one of the most anticipated productions in many years This 'behind the scenes' publication will reveal secrets, surprises, anecdotes and gossip Set in Elizabethan England, Peter Hall's new production of A Midsummer Night's Dream presents Titania, the Fairy Queen, as a portrait of the aging Queen Elizabeth I, echoing Judi Dench's Oscar-winning performance in Shakespeare in Love. This production reunites Hall and Dench in an enduring theatrical partnership that has lasted some fifty years. Dench first played Titania for Hall with the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1962. Sitting throughout rehearsals will be Roger Warren, who has written this book as n count of what it is like to put on a major production -- the trials and tribulations and the highs and lows.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, March 4, 2010 at 12:11 (PDT)

Your website patrons may want to check their local tv listings for the "More Funny Ladies of British Comedy" program. It will be shown on my local PBS stations (KET & KET2) on Saturday, March 6 at 9 pm EST and on Sunday, March 7 at 7 pm EST. Among the actresses spotlighted are Judi Dench (As Time Goes By), Dawn French (Vicar of Dibley), Mollie Sugden (Are You Being Served?) and Patricia Routledge (Keeping Up Appearances).

On another note...has the Poirot episode (The Clocks) with Geoffrey Palmer been aired yet?

Best wishes,

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks so much for the heads up, Margaret. I just finished setting the recorder and, of course, I'm happy to post this so that everyone else can, too. My local PBS webpage sums it up as follows: More Funny Ladies of British Comedy will celebrate many of the great women of British comedy by showcasing clips of their funniest moments. And who better to host a second look at great British comediennes than the original host, Penelope Keith, best known as "Margo Leadbetter" from The Good Neighbors, and more recently as "Audrey Forbes Hamilton" from To the Manor Born."

As for "The Clocks", according to the IMDB, this episode (the first episode of Season 12 of Agatha Christie's Poirot) appeared on December 30, 2009. I'm pretty sure that is in the UK because it certainly did not appear on my PBS station.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Friday, March 5, 2010 at 8:08 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, February 22, 2010 at 10:38 (PDT)

Stephaine Perry
Arcadia, CA USA -- Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 11:10 (PDT)

Speaking of flattering pictures of Dame Judi: these are from her performance as the Countess of Rousillon in All's Well That Ends Well. The play opened in late 2003 at Stratford (24 years after she last appeared on that stage).

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, February 22, 2010 at 10:38 (PDT)

On March 17th of this year, you can spend some time with Dame Judi if you happen to be at the Rose Theatre in Kingston. The picture above is the cover of the Rose Theatre Season Brochure, which you can download at the Rose Theatre home page. Thanks to Connie E., from Los Angeles for sharing with me the latest email she received with the announcement of Judi's talk. There is also a conversation between Peter Hall and Stephen Unwin on February 22nd. Be sure to check the website for further events relating to the production.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 11:03 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at 9:05 (PDT)

A flattering picture of Judi in Midsummer Night's Dream Caroline Jowett at Express UK and Benedict Nightengale of the Times Online (notice the link to the 1962 review of the play at the website), Charles Spencer of the Telegraph and Mark Shenton at Stage -- all seem to be in agreement with all the other reviewers. Photos of last night's after-party are at What's On Stage.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at 7:55 (PDT)

The reviews are coming in and they are looking good: Read Michael Billington's review of Midsummer Night's Dreamin tomorrow's Guardian (UK) and another by Paul Taylor in tomorrow's Independent.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, February 15, 2010 at 7:31 (PDT)

Judi Dench and Peter Hall play tug of love By Lesley White These old friends are reuniting after 48 years to give Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream a delightful surprise twist. An audience with the royals is always nerve-wracking, but at least there is usually a butler on hand with a stiff drink. Today, alas, there is only sad-looking guacamole in a tub for lunch, and a loudspeaker intoning: "Fifteen-minute call for Gentlemen of Verona." Then again, we are visiting arts royalty, unsubsidised, egalitarian, concerned with the classical canon and the common good, curtsey not expected. Dame Judi Dench and Sir Peter Hall are enthroned but determinedly ungrand, stars who prefer to see themselves as troupers, busy as bees with plans for the future (he as director emeritus at the Rose Theatre in Kingston upon Thames; she with her late-flowering movie career, including another M in next year's Bond), but, given half a chance, relaxing into their shared past as into a warm bath. This month, Dench opens as Titania in Hall's production of A Midsummer Night's Dream, 48 years after they staged it for the RSC at Stratford -- the oldest fairy on the block, although not, thankfully, with a diaphanous frock and gossamer wings. When Hall called to offer her the role, he didn't pause for breath in case she thought he'd gone mad, explaining that he wanted her to play the queen of the forest as Elizabeth I, in a play within a play. "There was a slight pause after I'd finished my spiel, and she said, 'Right, I'll do it.'" "Just like that with us, isn't it?" Dench smiles. "It tends to be," he replies. "Yes, it is. It's very nice." They are like a clever, doting old married couple, finishing each other's sentences, mildly disagreeing on dates, forgetting names, happy in their jokey reminiscence. In a tiny dressing room at the Rose, we huddle before the bulb-lit mirrors, although between these two home-grown legends, the twinkle factor almost requires sunglasses. He is 80 in November, bearded and wry and hacking pitifully this morning. "The cough has come back," he wails. "Oh, it hasn't," she soothes, as if to a little boy. "Did you get cold yesterday?" She is four years younger, swathed in elegant cream layers, petite, soft, cuddly (not that you'd ever dare) and utterly rigorous: a few years ago, he offered her the Nurse in Romeo and Juliet and she told him "where to get off". Her speciality is being adored -- however much she curses her national-treasure status -- and Hall seems as susceptible as the next man. Close up, she can look shockingly old, but only if, like me, you have come fresh from viewing her near-naked appearance as Titania in Hall's 1968 film of AMND. Diana Rigg played Helena and Helen Mirren Hermia, but neither of those feted sex kittens is half as alluring as the 33-year-old Dench, daubed a foresty green, with fig leaves to cover not much of her modesty and fired with such wanton lust for the donkey-headed Bottom that she gives Equus a run for its money. She has never seen the film, but remembers the costume all too well. "It was just ivy," she chuckles naughtily. "I got in in the morning, and it was stuck on. I was painted green and wore wellingtons. I was meant to have clothes, but Peter thought they didn't look right against a real background, so gradually the clothes got eroded." She had no misgivings about disrobing in a chilly November location, only about the wildlife: spotted snakes with double tongues would have posed no problem, but the earthworms wriggling beneath her bare body were suddenly too much to bear. "I was frightened of worms. We were lying in the bower, and, just as we were about to start filming, I leapt up and everything went up in the air. I was screaming." She beams a late apology at the director, who seems to have forgiven her. Partly, Dench agreed to the new production to help Hall draw audiences to a local theatre considered unworthy of funding by the Arts Council -- "Who regard southwest London as having enough theaters," he says. In the mood for a blockbuster, he worked out what Shakespeare parts were left to "the Dame", and it appeared she'd done the lot. "Some of them several times," he laughs, and his leading fairy shoots him a mock-surprised look. "Elizabeth was a keen theatre patron who often had Shakespeare's company to the palace, and A Midsummer Night's Dream was in the repertory. There were plays in which the court participated. She was a great dancer and musician, so we thought, 'Why couldn't the queen play Titania?'" Dench has serious, award-winning form playing queens: Victoria in Mrs Brown, the performance that impelled Harvey Weinstein to make her a movie star at 62, and the ageing but mischievous Elizabeth I in Shakespeare in Love, which won her an Oscar and a Bafta. What difference to the role of the beauteous Titania does the pock-marked monarch make? The actress looks stricken for a moment. "Oh, I can't answer that at the moment. . .", but, as she likes to scare herself, we can assume that the slight panic is part of her equipment. It helps that she knows the role by heart. "I know all the parts. . . they stay in there." She first played Titania at the Mount, a Quaker boarding school in York. "It was a huge thing to have been chosen," she says, still proud. After drama school, she played both the first fairy and Hermia, and Hall's 1959 Dream, with Charles Laughton as Bottom, was one of the first productions she saw at Stratford. Before that, she had watched Michael Redgrave's Lear on a school-holiday trip with her parents, while ordinary aircraftman Hall was stationed down the road with the RAF Education Corps, doing his national service, taking the bus to the theatre and standing at the back for two shillings. Hall set up the RSC in 1960; Dench arrived to join his troupe in 1962. Their original Dream, with Ian Richardson as Oberon and Ian Holm as Puck, opened at the Aldwych, he recalls. Dench corrects him gently. "No, no, we started at Stratford." "Are you sure?" "Yes, then it went to the Aldwych, where I wasn't in it, but Michael [Williams, her late husband] was. We weren't married then. You see. . ." She looks momentarily forlorn. "This play is so entwined with my family. It was a beautiful production at the Aldwych, with a big tree. Mikey and Ian Richardson set up a little bar inside it, and had a stiff vodka before the very end of the play." Dench lives with her daughter, Finty, and 12-year-old grandson in Surrey, but has always talked of her second "family" -- of the theatre companies, the camaraderie of the ensemble. Since Williams's death in 2001, after 30 years of marriage, its ties have been her security and her comfort. "I couldn't do anything on my own," she says flatly. Her private and personal realms merge seamlessly: Finty was directed by Hall at the Rose in Bedroom Farce last year; her friend Diana Rigg's daughter, Rachael Stirling, plays Helena in the new Dream. Much as Pete and Jude dote on each other, however, a memory-lane venture like this could be swamped in melancholy; and Dench is thinking of her husband through much of our conversation. For all her film triumphs (Iris, Notes on a Scandal, Rob Marshall's musical Nine and, of course, the Bonds, in which her acerbic M is more indispensable than the latest six-pack lead), classical theatre is her home and history. It is also a sustaining connection with Williams and the life they shared: domesticity, acclaim, a very English sort of stardom and, in the best of times, a stage. In 1972, they both appeared in the RSC's London Assurance. "I was hugely pregnant in it, too," she laughs, "and it was very unsuitable. I had this wonderful part of a virgin in a Gloucestershire garden and, before Sinead Cusack took over, Janet Whiteside was saying over my huge stomach, 'Do you feel nothing stirring?'" Of her nine collaborations with Hall, it is not their Dream she remembers most affectionately, but their 1987 Antony and Cleopatra, with Anthony Hopkins, at the National Theatre. Hall was a taskmaster at times; if she is the famous, bigger-earning star, he is still the boss. "Nobody misses anything out with Peter. There's no cheating. No mis-scans." When she and Miranda Foster were called to rehearse the death of Cleopatra, they thought it would take half an hour. "Three hours later, Peter's still standing there with a lectern, making everybody speak the verse properly. And Miranda got up and went [she imitates Foster's cheeky, over emphasised rhythm]: 'Our roy-al lady's dead.' I was in hysterics. And there was a moment. And Peter said: 'Thank Christ!'" Hall looks bemused. "Really? I have no memory of that at all." "Oh, yes," Dench says firmly. "And we had a picnic each night inside the monument. They asked us for our favourite food, and we said it was seafood and a glass of champagne. And on the last night, there it was. You'd never have known from the front." "In 1962, at the end of the Dream," Hall recalls, looking at his leading lady, "I said to this one, 'One day, you'll play Cleopatra.' And she said, 'Don't be ridiculous! A little runt like me? I couldn't possibly. And I said, 'Well, just bear in mind, when the time comes for you to play her, that I'm first in the queue.' Twenty years later, the phone rings and it's Dame Judi, saying, 'Hello. I've been asked by Stratford to go and do Cleopatra. Will you do it?' And I said, 'How long have I got?' And she said, 'Oh, about a week.'" The night before we met, Dench was watching Sir Ian McKellen in Waiting for Godot with her old friend Roger Rees, an assistant set painter in the Stratford of her youth who ended up playing Hamlet there, an apprenticeship whose demise she mourns. "There just isn't the opportunity for that to happen now, for young actors to learn," she says. "When I went to the Vic between 1957 and 1960, I never left the side of the stage. Dame Peggy [Ashcroft] was fantastic to me when we did The Cherry Orchard. . ." Hall cuts in: "I only had reason to reprimand Dame Peggy once, and that was at the height of the Wars of the Roses [his 1964 cycle of Shakespeare histories]. At the matinee, it was reported to me that she was listening to the cricket on a tiny radio affixed to her helmet. A lot of junior actors who were cast as soldiers were coming for the latest score. She was passionate for cricket. . ." Despite their grumbles about long-lost repertory companies and stingy arts funding, neither veteran is gloomy about the state of the modern theatre. Hall points to the fact that his Stratford season ran from spring to autumn, but it now "trots on all round the clock". What keeps him going is the next play: "I don't like not to be in rehearsal." As for the venerable queen who hates her wrinkles but cherishes her unnatural energy, what sustains her is work, doing the crossword, learning something new each day, the buzz of the undisclosed movie for which she has just signed up, beginning four days after the Dream closes. "I will lie down for four days, I think." More meaningful than any of that, though, is her misty-eyed pride about taking her grandson -- "my Sammy" -- to see Brendan O'Hea's Cymbeline. She also took him to All's Well That Ends Well -- 'Three times!" -- and Jude Law's Hamlet. 'His attention span is normally short, but he sat throughout it without moving. If it's interesting enough, you see, they will."

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, February 13, 2010 at 15:52 (PDT)

If your special person is located in the UK and has a cell phone which is capable of receiving an MMS message you might be interested in sending a Valentine's Day Poem read by Judi Dench (or one of several other personalities). Click on the link for further information. Notice (on the order page) that you have an option to contact the Poetry Archive by email if you are located elsewhere and you can make arrangements to send the message to other areas.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 12, 2010 at 7:31 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 11, 2010 at 15:15 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 11, 2010 at 14:01 (PDT)

This photo of Judi in Midsummer Night's Dream was at the Playbill website. Click on the link to see others. Click here to go elsewhere on this site to see a couple of photos of Judy and Paul Rogers as Bottom and Titania in a much earlier version of this play. Most of us are aware that Melvin Bragg interviewed Judi on the South Bank Show back in 1995. He is doing a series of new shows (retitled The South Bank Show Revisited) which will be a collection of "New interviews with an outstanding array of subjects from past South Bank Shows." I would be grateful if those of you in the UK would keep an eye on the schedule and let me know when it will be aired. I found a website on which you can register to view the series online, -- it is at the bottom of the page -- but it apparently is not open to visitors from many countries -- UK, Sweden, Norway and Denmark seem to qualify. There's also a reference to BFI which can provide more information. Lastly, according to Reuter's, which got it from the Hollywood Reporter at the Berlin Film Festivel, Judi is in talks to play Mrs. Fairfax in a production of Jane Eyre for BBC Films and Focus Features. Everyone is buzzing about it but it all comes back to the same tiny snippet. Rumors....

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 11, 2010 at 11:51 (PDT)

Thanks very much to Connie E. from Los Angeles, CA for reminding me that Midsummer Night's Dream begins tonight at the Rose Theatre, Kingston. Connie sent along an email that came from Rose Theatre and it provides the same information as the web page in the link. Read an article about the production in Playbill.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at 9:00 (PDT)

Now -- finally -- is the time to pre-order the final season of Waiting for God. As always you have a price-drop guarantee and if the price drops between now and May 25th, you'll get the lower price.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, February 7, 2010 at 9:27 (PDT)

I am a HUGE fan of ATGB. I now have purchased the complete series 1 to 9 and the 2 reunion specials. I have been watching them over and over again and just love it. I have gone into the "atgbcental.com" web page and have enjoyed reading the reviews and stories. I did, however, read that this show may not continue on but that the team hasn't given up. It would be wonderful if possible to make a couple more episodes of this delightful show. I never get sick of it and find myself either in tears or laughing a lot. I can see so many parallels in my life with the lives of Jean and Lionel. I would just like to encourage the writer Bob Larbey if possible, to put pen to paper again for one last time to bring into our lounge rooms just one or two more episodes of this fantastic show.

I am from Newcastle in New South Wales Australia.

Dame Judi Dench, Geoffrey Palmer and the rest of the cast are just fabulous.

Greetings to you all.

Regards

Elizabeth Pusey
Newcastle, New South Wales, AU -- Monday, February 1, 2010 at 21:34 (PDT)

Carol Willadsen
Santa Rosa, CA USA -- Thursday, January 29, 2010 at 23:22 (PDT)

Almost positive that the actress in the photo with Philip Bretherton is Barbara Marten. She's probably best known in the UK for her time on the long running series 'Casualty' but she's appeared in many TV and theatre shows. The picture is from 'Who's afraid of Virginia Woolf' I believe. You can see other pictures from that production here. NOTE FROM BONNIE: After having looked at the pictures at the linked page, I'd be inclined to agree with you. Thanks very much for responding to the question I asked. Based on your previous contributions to this website I know that you are familiar with theatre in the UK.

Lisa
UK -- Monday, January 24, 2010 at 17:34 (PDT)

I welcome this input.

I actually did find a lot of references when I did a search on "Life After Scandal" and "Hampstead Theatre" and all of them indicated Geraldine Fitzgerald was part of the cast, so I never had any doubts about that. After I wrote what I wrote, though, I thought about the fact that she is, after all, an actor. People in that particular profession are often made -- with wigs and makeup -- to look as though they are aging within the span of a play or a movie. I guess the number of years that pass between plays could be irrelevant. I also checked the cast list and could find no other woman mentioned. And the point about the head shots is certainly a good one: we've often seen pictures of Judi that were taken years ago and they are all quite different and reflect the variety of the roles she's taken.

On another note, I had a question this morning about ATGB Locations. I tried to find Joan Street's web site and saw that my link was out of date so here's a new one that you might enjoy visiting either again or for the first time. Those of you who are considering writing and asking me to provide addresses of the locations used in the show; don't bother. Out of respect those who are currently living and working in these areas, I never give out this information.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, January 25, 2010 at 8:32 (PDT)

At any rate I did manage to catch the elusive Mr. Bretherton for an autograph after the play (also Caroline Quentin, who is not the mystery lady). He came out of the theatre talking on his mobile, which made him appear to be very like Alistair. Both were very gracious. I do wish he worked more often on TV or in London!

NOTE FROM BONNIE: She looks awfully familiar to me -- a bit like Cloris Leachman. Anyway, after a lot of searching I managed to find a picture of her and it doesn't look as though it is the same person. Things do change over the years, but I don't think this woman is the right age and only two years separate these two productions.

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Sunday, January 24, 2010 at 17:34 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Saturday, January 23, 2010 at 17:53 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, January 23, 2010 at 18:09 (PDT)

I love this caricature of Geoffrey that I found on an iphone application. I was unable to find the URL or name of the artist, though and the same is true for this photo of Philip Bretherton. If someone knows the name of the actress with Philip or the name of the production, let me know. Since last we spoke I saw the second half of Cranford and I'd have to say that I enjoyed the presentation a lot more than I did the first. Nine, which seems to be dropping almost out of site, won nothing at the Critics Choice Award show or the Golden Globes last weekend. Now let's see what happens with it tomorrow night when the SAG awards are presented on TNT.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, January 22, 2010 at 18:25 (PDT)

Don't forget to tune in for the second half of Cranford on Sunday evening. Also you might want to see the VH1 Critics Choice Awards (which will be on in a few minutes) and the Golden Globes, which is on NBC Sunday night. Nine is, of course, nominated in several categories for both awards (none for Judi.)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, January 15, 2010 at 17:45 (PDT)

Thanks to Ridge for sending me this link from the LA Times to an article about Return to Cranford. There's also a "RELATED" link just below the picture to read another article. There's also an article in the Sunday Times Online which declares Judi's upcoming stint as Titania "one of the "Hottest Tickets of the Year." Plan accordingly.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, January 9, 2010 at 16:02 (PDT)

By the way: I am the very same person who wrote for a chain of neighborhood newspapers in the Western Suburbs of Chicago and I really knocked The Simpsons because (and I quote): "in the end, it is just a cartoon."

In the interest of fairness I also quote from the Wikipedia article about the Simpsons:

Since its debut on December 17, 1989 the show has broadcast 450 episodes and the twenty-first season began airing on September 27, 2009. . . . The Simpsons Movie, a feature-length film, was released in theaters worldwide on July 26 and July 27, 2007, and grossed US$ 527 million worldwide.

The Simpsons has won dozens of awards since it debuted as a series, including 25 Primetime Emmy Awards, 26 Annie Awards and a Peabody Award. Time magazine's December 31, 1999 issue named it the 20th century's best television series, and on January 14, 2000 the Simpson family was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Simpsons is the longest-running American sitcom, the longest-running American animated program, and in 2009 it surpassed Gunsmoke as the longest running American primetime entertainment series.

Since the day I wrote the review, which was right after its premiere episode, I have only seen it one time and that was the episode starring Ricky Gervais, who makes me laugh out loud.

I guess that alone makes me not mainstream.

One more thing: Don't forget about Return to Cranford, which will air this Sunday on Masterpiece Classics (check the TV Schedule in your area.) My recommendation, if you want to watch it on your computer, is that --after the episodes air --you go to pbs.org where (for a limited time) you can watch quality encore presentations online in full. I'd stay away from YouTube on this one, unless you are able to merge the files and make your own DVD. I saw it and enjoyed it and don't think any of Judi's fans will be disappointed.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, January 7, 2010 at 11:54(PDT)

Bonnie . . . thank you for the lovely picture of Jenny. And, a Happy New Year to you and your world-wide readers of this wonderful site. Best wishes...

NOTE FROM BONNIE: The same wishes go back out to you, Evelyn and to everyone who visits this site. I'm glad to have found a good picture of Jenny and this morning I found a couple of pictures of Geoffrey, at least one of which I've not seen before. The pictures shown above as well as some biographical facts were obtained from this Peter Pan-related website. Also Judi confirms in the Daily Mail Online that "as spymaster 'M', she shoots the next Bond film in 2011, but for now [she] has no other firm plans aside from A Midsummer Night's Dream."

Evelyn
San Diego CA USA -- Friday, January 1, 2010 at 11:49 (PDT)

"Hamlet" Broadway Opening Night - After Party October 6, 2009 - Gotham Hall, New York City

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 31, 2009 at 11:34 (PDT)

Mary
Baton Rouge, LA USA -- Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 17:37 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 12:12 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at 8:38 (PDT)

Bonnie, can you tell me if the Nine advertised on Amazon is the DVD or just the CD? I definitely want to buy the DVD. I loved the film and encourage everybody to see it.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks for sharing your opinion with us, Marisetta. The Soundtrack CD is what is currently available at Amazon. The DVD of the Movie will not be available for pre-order for several months -- at this moment I don't know the exact release date, but I will post it as soon as I do.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Monday, December 28, 2009 at 17:22 (PDT)

The YouTube clip above is from a Christmas special run on BBC last week. Those of us in the US are currently unable to see anything "official" because we are outside of their territory. If you are in their viewing area you can see the whole program by clicking on the link. That's not to say it won't pop up somewhere in the coming days. I know several personalities are involved and I'm not sure how big a role Geoffrey as the narrator has.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, December 28, 2009 at 9:02 (PDT)

Perhaps others will enjoy reading this article I found regarding the new Cranford episodes.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Saturday, December 26, 2009 at 16:20 (PDT)

I checked my DVR and found it at 1:30 on the West Coast; but at any rate, if you get that cable/satellite channel you might want to check it out for new content.

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Saturday, December 26, 2009 at 11:23 (PDT)

Thanks to you for another year of providing all of us ATGB diehards with information on our favorite cast of characters. I too was saddened to learn of the passing of Moyra Fraser, as its just another reminder of how fast life seems to pass along.

Merry Christmas to you and to those who visit your site...

John Roy
Acushnet, MA USA -- Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at 8:11 (PDT)

I wish a very happy holiday season to all of the visitors who have been here over the past 11 years. Thank you for coming and thank you for supporting this site with your Amazon purchases, particularly when I know that you could have gone to many other places instead to place your orders. To celebrate the season I am re-posting the audio version of With Great Pleasure. It originally aired on Radio 4 on Christmas Day, 2007 and it featured Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer along with host Alan Titchmarsh. I loved it then and decided to go into my old backups to retrieve it. To listen to it click on the picture above. This should open up another window and you can minimize and continue on with your computing.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at 6:13 (PDT)

Mary Bentley
Cullman, AL USA -- Monday, December 21, 2009 at 12:39 (PDT)

Happy Holidays to you and all the fans!

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Sunday, December 20, 2009 at 8:37 (PDT)

Happy Holiday to you and to all fans of ATGB!

Christopher Toth
St. Louis, MO USA -- Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 10:53 (PDT)

Here's the video of Judi's appearance on last night's Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson. It ran just a bit over the allowable limit for YouTube so I chose to cut the film clip that was shown just before he introduced her -- it was the yes, no, yes, no clip we've seen over and over and over and over and now it just makes it. After I saw this clip I realized that this was indeed shot several weeks ago and the running joke on this show was that it was not really December 18th.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 7:45 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 7:45 (PDT)

Again, I must say that I don't know how Judi does it -- gets her appointments straight, that is. I was under the impression that Judi would be in LA tonight for the Premiere of Nine. I have no idea where Judi is right now, but I'm hoping she's at home relaxing. Turns out the actual Premiere event in Los Angeles was held on December 9th and it just seemed to go over my head because the coverage suggested that the only major cast-members who seem to have been there were Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz and Fergie.

I know she was in LA last month and I thought maybe it was during the time of the premiere, but it was actually at the SAG screening. I think I remember Connie suggested that the Craig Ferguson show might have been taped during this time, but still I had my fingers crossed, hoping that somehow she'd be live and even make it to see Charlie Rose. I'm still willing to be surprised.

The show is now playing in LA and New York City and will open across the nation on December 25th, so maybe someone has finally blown the whistle on the publicity train.

If you want to read some of the reviews of Nine, go over to Rotten Tomatoes where you will find at least 70 of them. Considering that it hasn't really opened big-time that's an awful lot of opinion.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 18, 2009 at 16:11 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 18, 2009 at 16:11 (PDT)

I haven't found a similar widget for upcoming radio programs, but you should be sure to check the BBC Radio sites and when you are on their individual sites sign up for their newsletters for a heads up to their programming. BBC 7 will present The Wizard of EarthSea in two parts beginning on Christmas Day. A bit off-topic but speaking of Christmas Day, I was searching around for things on the radio and I noticed that Alexander McCall Smith's recent #1 Ladies' Detective Agency novel, Tea Time for the Traditionally Built, will be dramatized in two parts on that day and presented on BBC Radio 4. I already have the audiobook, but when I pre-ordered this dramatization I got a notice that it would not be available. If there is anyone else who loves these novels, be aware of this special presentation.

Also speaking of Christmas Day, I am reminded to wish everyone a Happy Holiday season no matter what it is that is being celebrated. I hope everyone has a healthy, happy and safe New Year.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, December 18, 2009 at 9:10 (PDT)

It's enlightening to read the comments as well and maybe it had best be saved for re-reading after you actually see the movie. And I warn you that Judi's song was not well-received by the reviewer.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 17, 2009 at 17:24 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 17, 2009 at 8:29 (PDT)

I don't know deep down why I love the show so -- my feelings on it are hard to describe. There's many reasons I could tell you that you have probably heard before, but the best thing I can tell you is that I watch the show and wish/pretend I am a part of Jean and Lionel's family. I could go further into the dynamics of the earlier episodes, and how they make me feel but there are not enough MegaBytes in this e-mail for all of them. LOL. Anyway thanks for any help you can give about the songs and the radio casts.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I have never heard of any website that ever posted radio broadcasts of the As Time Goes By series. Only a few of the total episodes were ever made specifically for radio and, as far as I know, the BBC recordings were out of print. I'm sure anyone who ever decides to post the episodes would be guilty of violating copyright regulations. I'm afraid that the best I can do for you with regard to Joe Fagin is to post the picture above which is the first I've found claiming to be taken from a single record sleeve. The website I found it on seems no longer to be maintained, but has a mini-biography as follows: "Joe Fagin has one of the most recogniseable voices ever to be heard on record, television and film. Best known for performing the theme songs from the first and second series of the comedy drama "Auf Wiedersehen, Pet", he has enjoyed success in the UK, Europe and the USA with hit singles such as "Why Don't We Spend the Night" and "Younger Days". He has recorded a wide range of music styles, from the light hearted pop/rock style of "That's Livin' Alright", the witty lyrics of "Savin' Face" (from the Bob Geldof film "Number One"), the gentle, sentimental "As Time Goes By" to the theatrical sounds of the contemporary opera "Paris". Fagin has also demonstrated acting talent, both on television and in the theatre, from performing in the Bob Hoskins movie "The Long Good Friday", the cult comedy "Blott on the Landscape" with David Suchet, and the theatre with an adaptation of the childrens classic "Wind in the Willows", and most recently the contemporary opera "Paris". He also appeared as a country singer in "The Barbara Taylor Bradford Mystery - To Be the Best"." What I would suggest you do since you have the Box Set is get some recording software and make yourself an audio version of the individual episodes as well as the theme by Joe Fagin. I believe there is one episode in which he sings the longer version of the song. There is plenty of information on the internet that can tell you how to do this. Sorry I can't be more helpful.

Daniel
Hagerstown, MD US -- Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at 20:48 (PDT)

I, too, am a bit annoyed at the interviewers who, whether intentional or not, choose to omit Judi from any mention of the "Nine" cast. Granted, she doesn't play the central character in the film, but her role is just as important as any other. Many of the cast members have been quoted as saying the project was a 'company' effort. In my humble opinion, DJD deserves equal billing. How many other films can boast a Brit portraying a Parisienne (complete with accent!) directed by an American in an Italian setting? Without a doubt, she's one talented Dame! And didn't she look great at the NYC premiere of "Nine", in the black outfit with black/red/gold scarf? Quite festive!

In closing, let me join others in expressing sadness for the passing of Moyra Fraser. May her family and friends be comforted by the knowledge that she brought much pleasure to those of us who enjoyed her interaction with Stephen, Lionel, 'poor' Jean and the entire ATGB family.

Best wishes to everyone for a happy and blessed holiday season.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at 19:17 (PDT)

It was so sad to hear of Moyra Fraser's passing . I didn't realize that she was 86 years old I really thought she was still in her 70's. I had the pleasure of meeting Moyra a few times when visiting London in the past ten years. She was always a delight to talk with and a classy lady like Judi. She will be sorely missed.

Now on to Judi's New York TV appearances, I think the NY hosts hardly gave her any time at all. I also think she looked very tired today on the Regis Philbin show and why wouldn't she after doing the premier last night with the party afterwards. In order to be on time for the shows this morning, she would have to be up at the crack of dawn so is it any wonder she looked tired and worn out for what, a few minutes on American TV. She now has to go on to all the hoop de la in Los Angles. I realize that all this is a part of the game but she should be more respected by the media for the actress that she is.

Emma
New York, USA -- Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at 19:07 (PDT)

I add my expressions of sorrow for the death of "aunt Penny". She was indeed a very good comic actress.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at 14:36 (PDT)

There are, of course, many more videos at YouTube -- including the Larry King broadcast from yesterday evening and the Today Show from this morning. She must hate having to answer the same old questions every single interview, but I'm sure the parties more than make up for it. There was an after-party after the premiere and it was held at the M2 Ultra Lounge in New York. Meanwhile there was a short video on the always fair, always balanced New York Fox affiliate online, but I won't post it because it never mentioned or featured Judi Dench. I suppose I can understand their not mentioning Sophia Loren because she was not at the event, but the omission of Judi is particularly annoying. Sorry for the lousy video, but I'm pretty sure a better one will be uploaded in just a few minutes, in which case I'll remove mine. By the way, thanks to Stephanie for telling me that a stoat is a small mammal (AKA a short-tailed weasel or ermine) which is "famous" for its ability to freeze a rabbit with its glare. Oh, and Judi was NOT nominated for a Golden Globe for Nine.

Meanwhile, I add my condolences to those of Marla with respect to Moyra Fraser. Just last week Matthew stopped by to mark her birthday and brought a smile to my face. She and Paul Chapman provided wonderful comic relief to an already successful and established comedy, much the same as Lilith and Frasier did in Cheers and I always found myself looking forward to their appearances.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at 8:37 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at 4:01 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at 19:33 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at 19:05 (PDT)

Judi is back in the United States for another round of publicity for Nine, which will open on both coasts this week. The New York Nine premiere will be held tonight at the Ziegfeld Theater, 141 W 54th Street, NYC, at 7:30 p.m., with the red carpet opening at 6:45 p.m. I'm sure the festivities will be all over YouTube by morning. The picture at the left was taken yesterday at the luncheon for the cast which was held in NYC at Per Se. You can find more pictures and read a short description of the event here. You read about yesterday's special screening of Nine You can see pictures of the cast by clicking on the link. Obviously Judi has been caught up in a whirlwind schedule and it really doesn't appear to let up until the LA opening on Friday. So . . . HERE ARE A FEW REMINDERS REGARDING JUDI'S UPCOMING APPEARANCES: Judi is scheduled to appear on Larry King Live tonight, on Regis and Kelly tomorrow, 12/16 The Today Show tomorrow, 12/16 and late late Friday night (otherwise known as Saturday early early morning) on the Craig Ferguson Show. Check your local listings to confirm date and time details. If you miss any of these shows, be sure to check the links for replays. They should all be available shortly after the original air date, but not for long. For those who do not know it, Larry King's show has a free podcast on Itunes to which you can subscribe.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at 8:06 (PDT)

To go behind the scenes with its screenwriter, Heidi Thomas, during the making of Cranford then click on the picture above.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, December 14, 2009 at 9:50 (PDT)

CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO PRE-ORDER THE SOUNDTRACK FROM AMAZON.COM
or click on the ATGBCentral Store in your area

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 8:32 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 7:55 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, December 13, 2009 at 7:28 (PDT)

I saw the short feature by the Weinstein Company called "The Making of Nine." It was on this morning on the WE Network and I was thinking about posting it to YouTube, but was concerned about the copyright. Fortunately I found most of it was already posted in the form of individual clips, so I'll just put them up on the site and let someone else worry about the copyright. The full film runs 22 minutes, so this is a good chunk of it.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 20:13 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Friday, December 11, 2009 at 10:08 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, December 11, 2009 at 7:46 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 19:30 (PDT)

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA USA -- Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 14:39 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 10:09 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 9:28 (PDT)

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - DECEMBER 09: Actors Dame Judi Dench, Daniel Day Lewis, director Rob Marshall and actors Nicole Kidman and Penelope Cruz during a video message at the Opening Night during day one of the 6th Annual Dubai International Film Festival held at the Madinat Jumeriah Complex on December 9, 2009 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. MSNBC has released a review of Nine: Read it here.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 17:38 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 8:29 (PDT)

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - DECEMBER 09: Actors Dame Judi Dench, Daniel Day Lewis, director Rob Marshall and actors Nicole Kidman and Penelope Cruz during a video message at the Opening Night during day one of the 6th Annual Dubai International Film Festival held at the Madinat Jumeriah Complex on December 9, 2009 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. MSNBC has released a review of Nine: Read it here.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 17:38 (PDT)

That left us with about one-third of the visitors actually participating. Of these, one out of every three people looked at the survey and chose to answer no questions. This left us with only 54 people who shared their opinions. Given that this survey was held on a website heavily loaded with confirmed fans, the "results" were not unexpected.

I posted the survey on Saturday evening and there have been only 3 responses since Monday morning. The survey was written to allow one "vote" per computer, so if you went back you were not allowed to give your opinion again. I think the sample was so small that I wouldn't dare draw any conclusions and I'll give you the following statistics, such as they are, just because I said I would.

The first question had to do with whether or not the dress itself was attractive and 57 per cent of the responders thought it was. The second question asked whether or not it was flattering on Judi and 52 per cent felt it was. There was also a space for individual comments and they were all over the place: quite a few of the comments had to do with the idea that there was nothing that would ever be unflattering on Judi and that anyone that looked that good at that age is amazing on the face of it. There were a few negative comments made about the color and cut of the dress, and several people thought that Judi looked uncomfortable but, on the whole, those who answered the question felt that Judi stole the show.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 16:55 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Funny you should mention it. . .

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 13:49 (PDT)

Those of you in the UK might want to click on this link for Amazon UK's 12 Days of Christmas promotion. Each link there will be valid for only 24 hours and the promotion begins on December 26th. Note that it seems to require that you sign up for email alerts and I'm not sure whether or not you need to be a UK resident to participate.

I'm posting this once more because so much has been posted since Saturday evening that the original has been pushed so far down that newcomers may not see it: I've asked three questions regarding Judi's Dress. You may access the survey here. I will leave the link up for a brief period of time and get back to you with the results. There will be no way I can identify any respondents and you will be completely anonymous. I'm just about ready to post the results, but I'll let it go longer just to make sure it has been seen.

Also remember please, if you go to these links and actually want to buy something from Amazon, go back to my website to do it. There is still time to complete the survey

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 9:10 (PDT) My thoughts and warm wishes go today to Dame Judi, on her 75th birthday. May she live many more years enjoying what she loves most: working. She is still looking fabulous!

And, Bonnie, thanks always to you and your wonderful work in keeping us fans so well informed.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 9:56 (PDT)

	Go to ABC News for photos more behind the scenes photos with the cast of Nine . . . And click on Nightline (News) and you might see the full episode tomorrow night.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at 9:10 (PDT)

I'd like to join with others in wishing Dame Judi the most happiest of birthdays, with many more to follow. May she be blessed with good health, good humour, and the knowledge that she is admired and loved by many.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, her 75th Birthday is tomorrow and I'm sure that what you said so well speaks for all of us.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at 20:58 (PDT)

Mary
Baton Rouge, LA USA -- Monday, December 7, 2009 at 20:25 (PDT)

The all-star cast of the upcoming film, "Nine" -- Sophia Loren, Dame Judi Dench, Kate Hudson, Penelope Cruz, Stacy Ferguson (Fergie), Daniel Day Lewis, Nicole Kidman and Marion Cotillard -- sit down together with "Nightline's" Cynthia McFadden to discuss their new film inspired by the Tony-award winning musical. In the only network television interview with all nine actors, McFadden has the cast dishing about their favorite moments during filming, the surprising details they learned about themselves and each other in the process, and their opinions of the film's award winning director, Rob Marshall.

Cynthia McFadden's interview with the cast of "Nine" airs on ABC News "Nightline" Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 11:35pm (ET/PT).

"Nightline" is anchored by Cynthia McFadden, Terry Moran, and Martin Bashir. James Goldston is the executive producer.

"Nightline" airs at 11:35 p.m. (ET/PT) weeknights on the ABC Television Network.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, December 7, 2009 at 14:00 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, December 7, 2009 at 11:43 (PDT)

SOME MORE TIDBITS: Here's a link to this year's Christmas Issue of Radio Times. It features several articles on the upcoming Return to Cranford. It's also referred to in the following article, which appeared today on the Telegraph (UK) -- it's about the women of Cranford. Just as a side note, it's time for the viewers in the Vegas area to pick which show they'd like to see in the Britcom Saturday Night Line-Up. They showed examples of the contenders last night and, among them was a show called The Old Guys. The leads on that show were Clive Swift (who played Richard, the long suffering husband of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances) and Roger Lloyd Pack (who played the animal lover, Owen in Vicar of Dibley). I enjoyed seeing them again. The survey is doing surprisingly well and, if things keep going as they are, you may be surprised by the results. I'm having a lot of fun reading the comments and will try to provide a summary when it is over, but I know a lot more people check in on Monday, so I'm not ready to stop it now.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, December 6, 2009 at 15:20 (PDT)

I enjoy your website, Bonnie, keep it up.

Frayda Glass
Canton, MA USA -- Sunday, December 6, 2009 at 7:46 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, December 5, 2009 at 21:13 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, December 5, 2009 at 14:20 (PDT)

I'm still wondering about the color of her lovely dress at the London premiere. In some photos it looks like a fairly pure bright yellow but has a greenish cast to it in others. At any rate it is so rare to see her in anything but neutral colors. I have been to many personal appearances. At one of them one of her fans was taking bets among us as to what she would be wearing when it started. As it was in the daytime we were mostly guessing beige or white. We were all correct as she was wearing a beige and white outfit. I wonder why that is. Does it just make it easier for everything to match? She looks beautiful in whatever she wears, but I was just wondering if anyone has a guess for the reason.

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Saturday, December 5, 2009 at 14:26 (PDT)

According to the Sun (UK) Judi and Stacy Ferguson, her co-star in Nine and a member of the Peas, have agreed to "work their diaries" so that Judi can be in the next video. If the report is to be believed, Judi specifically requested that her appearance be on the video for Meet Me Halfway. I guess there's no telling how many "official videos" will exist. Have a look at the one that claims to be official -- one can only imagine.

Despite the report, official confirmation is yet to be made by either Fergie or Black-Eyed Peas on which music video Judi will star in. Besides, none of the parties mentioned in the story has confirmed on when they will start working with Judi.

The same article in the Sun has Judi "getting down" on the dance floor all night at the after-party at Claridges.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, December 5, 2009 at 8:07(PDT)

Also, for those followers of DJD who have young children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren, you may wish to consider "Angelina Ballerina" for Christmas, Hanukah (a little late) or birthdays. I recorded them in early 2000s on tape, but they are now on DVDs. Last month I bought 5 of them for my great-granddaughter & she loves them. They are delightful stories just long enough to hold the attention of 3 year olds & older. Judi & Finty are the two main characters. (And, of course, I did my purchasing from your site).

Many thanks, again.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks, Evelyn, and I appreciate what you have done for me as well. These are great suggestions and, frankly, I'm too embarrassed to make them myself so I'm glad you made it unnecessary for me.

Evelyn Eisenberg
San Diego CA USA -- Friday, December 4, 2009 at 3:08 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, December 4, 2009 at 12:25 (PDT)

Hope you are doing well.

Take care,

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Great to hear from you Matthew. I was so tired of Nine-hunting that I shut the computer off early last night. Sorry I couldn't post this in time. I'm sure Moyra would be appreciative and, if she knew you, would (as I do) wish you an equally Happy Birthday in a couple of weeks.

Matthew Gladney
Champaign-Urbana, IL USA -- Friday, December 4, 2009 at 8:02 (PDT)

There is a three part video which just filmed the proceedings and it looks sort of like all of my home videos, with a lot of dead time, camera movement and particularly crowd noise. The second video of the series was the one which, right at the 46 second mark and for a couple of minutes thereafter, found Judi signing autographs. I found it to be particularly agonizing to watch, but, as I said before, it is something I would have taken had I been there. I couldn't bring myself to watch video three, which I assume was shot after Judi was inside.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, December 4, 2009 at 6:36(PDT)

And you can read the "first review" of Nine (by Baz Bamigboye) also at the Daily Mail. He says Star-studded musical Nine is a sparkling ten. Baz' review claims to be the first, but here's another one from TimesOnline. Not a perfect 10, that one.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 16:33 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You're welcome. And thank YOU -- I hope everyone else will follow your lead.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 13:06 (PDT)

Let's get a look at the whole outfit.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 11:50 (PDT)

The stars of Nine gather at the premiere, which began today at 4 p.m. London Time.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 11:50 (PDT)

FOR THOSE OF YOU IN THE U.S. -- Don't forget to pre-order Return to Cranford from Amazon in the US. It will be released on January 19, 2010 They have been added to the U.S and U.K. Atgbcentral stores, but as of now there is no release date shown for Amazon Canada. If you don't buy it through the store, be careful to click on the appropriate direct link for your region.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 10:47(PDT)

FOR THOSE OF YOU IN THE UK: pre-order Return to Cranford from Amazon UK. It will be released on December 28, 2009. Here's the description: Welcome to Cranford, where all changes and all remains the same. Miss Matty's house is full of life and bustle. Her dream of having a child in the house has been realised in the birth of Tilly, daughter of her maid Martha and carpenter Jem. The shadow of the railway still looms but, to the relief of Matty and the Amazons, the line has been halted five miles outside of Cranford because of Lady Ludlow's refusal to sell her land. Elsewhere Miss Matty's friend Mr Buxton returns to town with his son, William, and his niece, Erminia. Miss Matty decides to introduce them to Peggy Bell, a young woman who lives in an isolated cottage with her mother and domineering brother, Edward, in the hope of building friendships. But, when tragedy strikes, she comes to believe that she has opened Pandora's box and fears Cranford will never recover.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 10:47(PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 7:02 (PDT)

According to his email to me:

The format is the guest sits there during many filmed inserts on a variety of subjects and chats about them, and plugs their latest project, which is why the audio is so disjointed. It's a 30 minute programme & Judi was on it for about 9. The format enabled Geoffrey to put forward his political views, when he was on it recently, about the US/UK involvement in Iraq/Afghanistan - he's against it (surprise, surprise).

Subjects included dangerous dogs, her god-dog (think god-child), algebra, nerves, Bond films, high diving, Nine, falling-over on stage, driving, Kevin Spacey, Jame Doody, wartime as a child, Christmas, and next year's play.

Judi was often ill at ease and tongue tied, and the host's slip of the tongue in calling her Jame Doody didn't help.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 2, 2009 at 13:34(PDT)

According to Contactmusic: [The] actress recently filmed reprised her role as Matty Jenkins in UK TV drama 'Cranford' and said she offered to lend her voice to an alternative, more unusual, part.

She explained: "Watch out for the scenes in 'Cranford' featuring a parrot. When you hear him squawking and making those clicking noises in his throat, it's me. I happened to be in the editing suite and I said, 'I'm sure I can do it, I'll be a lot cheaper'."

While filming the drama, Judi admitted she wished she had tried out some of her other skills because she was so cold wearing period costume. She said: "We begged for more mittens - for new mittens - but we didn't get our way. They're woollen mittens and if you wear them for a long while, they stretch. So consequently, between takes, you find yourself picking at them and then they stretch.

"I could have knitted or crocheted a couple of pairs, now I come to think of it!"

Anyway, expect to see a lot of Judi on Youtube in the next several days. I read that she will be at the New York premiere, which was listed as being held on December 15th or 18th, depending on the source. The Los Angeles premiere also shown as being on the 18th, but I'm guessing she will not be attending both premieres and maybe won't be at the New York premiere at all. Who knows? Just a simple search at any of the photo sites (like Wireimage, Getty, Rex, etc.) will generate lots of photos, so you can be on the lookout for them. I'm really selective about the pictures I post so you can be sure that I've seen them all.

She also got a "message" that she will be in the upcoming Bond film, but won't film for more than a year. Frankly they'd be foolish not to want her to continue to play "M" so no real news there.

Judi was a guest on the One Show yesterday and you can still go online and watch the show IF you are in the UK. You may not see the show (or you may be able to see it,) but everyone can read the comments about it. I'm not sure if it is available in other areas, but it is only available in the US if you pay a lot for the service and arrange to get an address that makes it look as though you are in the UK. It will be available until December 8th for those who are able to receive it and the site says "Dame Judi Dench joins the programme to talk musicals, secondhand cars and the beauty of maths."

This is the picture I get in my neck of the woods:

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 2, 2009 at 10:00(PDT)

Always thanks for this great site.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Me, too, Evelyn. She certainly sounds thrilled to be connected to the project.

Evelyn E.
San Diego CA USA -- Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at 18:30(PDT)

Was Judi happy to star in Nine? What do you think?

By the way, the nominations came out for the Golden Satellite. They are one of the earliest indicators of nominations to come (although this article seems to suggest that they are not particularly well-respected within the industry.) Judi was "among those whose efforts were politely given the press-group equivalent of the finger", but still you may be interested in seeing the results.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, November 30, 2009 at 18:00(PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Monday, November 30, 2009 at 9:17 (PDT)

Judi talks about the upcoming "Return to Cranford"

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, November 26, 2009 at 11:04 (PDT)

Meanwhile, according to The Envelope, which was discussing possible Oscar nominations:

"Mystery also surrounds the derby fate of "Nine" after it received mixed responses at early screenings. Audiences went wild for it at SAG nom com Q&As. But was that largely because they were blinded by the star wattage in attendance, including past Oscar champs Daniel Day-Lewis, Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench and Marion Cotillard? Lou Lumenick of the New York Post witnessed so much negativity at a different industry screening he attended that he removed "Nine" entirely from his list of potential best-picture nominees at The Envelope's Buzzmeter."

If you want to watch Ladies in Lavender on YouTube you can do it before it is removed for copywriter violations. It's all there right now.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at 10:54(PDT)

You are right, Connie. Here are some of the of the on camera interviews that were already in the can by the time Judi landed at Heathrow.

One from YouTube. And another from Broadway TV.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 7:50(PDT)

I talked with someone who was at the SAG nominating committee screening. He said that they had to turn away people who had reservations. So there were no seats offered to the rest of SAG at that screening. (Sob!)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Monday, November 23, 2009 at 16:38 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, November 23, 2009 at 10:25(PDT)

Mary
Baton Rouge, La. USA -- Sunday, November 22, 2009 at 20:54 (PDT)

A poster to another social site I frequent alerted members to a product at Amazon.com. Here's the link. It appears DJD has already written, or is in the process of writing, a memoir. It's scheduled to be released in hardback on September 15, 2010, with the paperback version appearing on shelves in September, 2011.

Those of us interested in the book can register to be notified when the book becomes available.

Happy Thanksgiving to all on this side of the pond!

NOTE FROM BONNIE: As you know, I have my own Amazon Stores, so I certainly don't want to post any links for which I don't get credit, because the money I make from the sale of products at Amazon helps to defray the cost of running the site. Every time I receive notice that something will be sold -- like Return to Cranford, for example, I put a link in the stores and I put links on the website and I do this far enough in advance so that this items can be pre-ordered. If I were to post the link that you sent me a person's name would sit there at Amazon, Amazon would send out an email in 8 or 9 months, the recipient would click on a link to order the product and no-one would get paid for sending people to Amazon -- it would just be considered a direct sale. Ordinarily I wouldn't even post this comment, but since there seems to be an ISBN number already assigned, it might be creditable. I would ask though, that if you sign up to be informed when there actually is such a product, that you first come here and click on one of my links to order it.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Sunday, November 22, 2009 at 14:36 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Siera Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 22:02 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: She travelled all the way from London to attend quite a few events which were specifically arranged to publicize the film. If she refused to be a part of it she'd have simply stayed home. She is probably contractually obligated to promote the film. As for the Vogue shots, they looked like they were done in the LA area and neither she nor Sophia were anywhere near there during the shooting, much of which was done on a beach. I know that some actors don't like the intrusions of the press which it comes to gossip and tabloid fare, but I don't think most of them refuse to publicize something that will bring the project to the attention of a wider audience. Just from what I know about Judi she loves her visits to LA and to New York and it would surprise me if she didn't want to be a part of it. I know she can refuse to give an interview to someone, but she doesn't seem to be the type of person who would do it. I'd have to agree with you, though, this photo of Dame Judi landing in her homeland might be the happiest I've seen her look all week.

Marisetta Magliocco
Siera Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 18:12 (PDT)

Dame Judi arrives home after the whirlwind publicity tour. For those of you who are really curious I've also posted a picture of her luggage. I know how happy she'll be to read that Nicole Kidman said that she "plans to be acting well into old age like her 'Nine' co-star Dame Judi Dench." I hope that was not an actual quote.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 7:43 (PDT)

Mary
Baton Rouge, LA USA -- Friday, November 20, 2009 at 19:33 (PDT)

Nine was screened before members of the SAG nominating committee at the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles on Wednesday evening. Afterwards there was a Q&A to which you can listen at this site. The picture at the left has nothing to do with the event, but I just happened to find it on the net and liked it and thought someone else might like it too.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, November 20, 2009 at 18:16(PDT)

Bonnie, I'd just like to thank you again for all that you do to keep us all connected. You're the best.

Peggy in Ohio
Friday, November 20, 2009 at 18:11 (PDT)

T Dankosky
Warner Robins, GA USA -- Friday, November 20, 2009 at 8:50 (PDT)

And thanks to Bonnie for posting that lovely pictures of Dame Judi arriving at LAX.

Marisetta Magliocco
Siera Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 18:13 (PDT)

Here's a picture of Judi at LAX getting ready for another round of publicity.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 21:46(PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I'm so dumb I misunderstood my own message and thought they were going to be on Oprah again today. So that's what I taped. Instead they had some male make-overs or something else that I deleted. I hope this explains the very weird answer I gave yesterday when Connie said that the Ladies from Nine would be on the show.

Marisetta Magliocco
Siera Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 18:13 (PDT)

The Ferguson listing was on the part of his website after you click to get tickets. This way you know that you're going to a taping of someone you want to see. I would have gone had I not had two things on today that I couldn't skip. Meanwhile I'm living in front of email in case a screening comes up where she will attend. Sometimes if they have a screening for the SAG nominating committee and have seats left they will offer them up to the first SAG members to RSVP (I am wife of SAG member). It's hard to track email without a web enabled phone. The screening with a personal appearance by Brad Pitt was full by the time I got home.

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 17:31 (PDT)

Here's the link for a nice article re: "Nine" in the Telegraph.

The more I read about this movie, and based on the trailers I've seen, it wouldn't surprise me if this movie was nominated for, and won, several awards...for the actors and production.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 17:20 (PDT)

Connie E., from Los Angeles, C.A. says: According to the Craig Ferguson website, Judi is taping his show today along with Ben Foster and Rosanne Cash. It won't hurt to check it out. The Craig Ferguson site I went to lists the guests tonight as Sandra Bullock and Ben Foster (as does the website which normally lists guests on all late-night shows.) Now there is also an indication that Variety will hold a Nine Press Screening Q&A in Los Angeles (at ArcLight Hollywood for members), so there is no telling where Judi is at any given moment. Speaking of rumors, which I normally am not inclined to post, the artwork for Return to Cranford has already been leaked and Glenda Pryor, from Wilmington, N.C., sent the link to this picture at the left. The website speculated that it will be released sometime in the Spring in the U.S. As soon as it is available in the US, Canadian and UK ATGBCentral stores, I will post it for pre-order and hope, as always, that those of you who intend to purchase the DVD will wait until an announcement is officially made. I have no way of knowing how accurate this artwork is or what country's version it represents -- it looks like a Region 2 DVD, which quite often looks nothing like the other Regional DVDs. Lastly, I got an email today from PBS saying "Starting December 20th, see an encore presentation of Cranford before the premiere of the all-new Return to Cranford on January 10, 2010."

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 12:14 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Sorry, I turned the computer off early yesterday and didn't get this until Thursday morning. Hope everyone gets a chance to see Judi if she gets to do the show. It doesn't say anything about such an appearance on Oprah's site, but it won't hurt to check it out.

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at 11:30 (PDT)

Judi Dench (on November 17) leaving the Peninsula Hotel in New York City headed for a waiting car.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 11:07 (PDT)

Also, I read that the Variety Screening Q&A was postponed from the original date, but that it has been held already. It said that all of the major stars with the exception of Sophia Loren were in attendance.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 16:59 (PDT)

Click to see some photos of the participants at the Nine Press Conferences at the Waldorf. Apparently there were two conferences -- one held on the 14th and and the other on the 15th. Once you have gotten to the page, click on the photos on the page to enlarge them somewhat.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 11:07 (PDT)

This picture below shows Judi and Daniel Day-Lewis arriving at the Hotel.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, November 16, 2009 at 7:03 (PDT)

However, if you have the time, check out the posts by "lf1234" at the following link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0875034/board/nest/151383803?p=1 Supposedly, this person participated in an advance screening of the movie. With regard to DJD's role, the poster opined that she 'owns' the Follies Bergere number and 'kicked a$$'.

There are also several references to the cast members' appearance on Oprah's show.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: While you are at IMDB have a look at the other entries about the movie (click just below the IMDB logo at the upper left part of the screen -- on the words Board: Nine (2009). You'll find lots more references and links to photo sites. I'll post just a few pictures of Judi at the press conference which was given on November 14th at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York. There are many more of her and the rest of the cast at Rex Features and WireImage.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Monday, November 16, 2009 at 7:20 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: If you are interested in seeing something else that doesn't feature either Judi or Sophia, have a look at this Video of the Vogue cover shoot

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Sunday, November 15, 2009 at 10:01 (PDT)

I noticed that someone on the staff posted this at the site: The provocative new musical Nine features an all-star lineup of Hollywood's biggest stars, including Daniel Day-Lewis, Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Marion Cotillard and Kate Hudson -- and they're all here! Don't miss Oprah talking to the impressive cast of the highly acclaimed musical that's bringing the magic of Broadway to the big screen.

That does sound as though those people who were pictured on the page that is linked might have been the only castmembers in the studio. If anyone was at the taping or learns anything more specific, send me an email and I'll be happy to share. Otherwise, just set your recorders.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, November 15, 2009 at 18:21 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Friday, November 13, 2009 at 10:00 (PDT)

While reading the latest comment from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, I couldn't help but wonder how many different countries and states in the USA are represented by your website visitors. Have you ever tried to count/track such information? It's a true indication of the wide reach of ATGB and your website! Keep up the great work...those of us who visit this site frequently can't adequately demonstrate our appreciation for your efforts.

On another note...the more I hear and see about the movie "Nine", the more excited I become. I can't wait for it to be released. Apparently, DJD's role will be much more active than I originally thought.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, I do have tracking for where visitors come from. What I can say is that between 8/2000 and today (the website was actually begun in 1998, so the tracking doesn't go all the way back to the beginning) 54 per cent of the visitors come from a .com web site in the U.S. The numbers are broken down based on the domain from which the reader enters the website (.com, .uk, .ca, .fr, etc.). There are also domains that end in .gov and that is in a separate category from .com, but most, if not all, are in the US. Anyway, at this moment there are over 150 different entities represented. Canada and the United States, for example, are single "entities", but within that listing are all the different states (all are represented) and provinces and that, of course, is true of many such entities. There are so many places represented and it is clear that ATGB has a wide appeal. The top four areas from which our visitors come are the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Germany, Sweden, New Zealand, Japan, the Netherlands and Spain round out the top ten.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Thursday, November 12, 2009 at 12:39 (PDT)

I would like to thank you for your website and all the work that you do. :-) ... keep it up! And I would like to say that I loved Dame Judi in Cranford, she captured her character's personality so well, quite a change from the roles that I am used to seeing her play.

Thank you once again,

Zainab Khan
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia -- Thursday, November 12, 2009 at 8:55 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at 11:12 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 17:29 (PDT)

For those of you who haven't been to the Space Earth ride at Epcot and who want to watch of video of Judi, take a look at this. In my opinion it is a bit hard to watch because it was obviously recorded on the ride and the sound is not as good as all that. Aside from the video and audio quality, it will give you some idea of what to expect if ever you get a chance to be at Disney World for the "real" experience.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, November 6, 2009 at 10:00 (PDT)

Click to bid on tickets to the Rose Theatre for a time with Judi

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, November 5, 2009 at 10:55 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Monday, November 2, 2009 at 11:50 (PDT)

More great change is set for the small Cheshire town of Cranford in Cranford 2, a 3-hour program featuring many of the beloved original cast including Judi Dench, Imelda Staunton, Francesca Annis and Julia McKenzie. Cranford 2 picks up the story in 1844. New faces coming to the close-knit town include Jonathan Pryce (Pirates of the Caribbean), Tom Hiddleston (Wallander), and Tim Curry (Spamalot). Based on the novels by Elizabeth Gaskell, Cranford 2 is written by Heidi Thomas (I Capture the Castle, Madame Bovary).

"Our viewers have been clamoring for more Jane Austen and more Judi Dench," said Masterpiece executive producer Rebecca Eaton "These new productions add up to a very strong Masterpiece classic season in 2010."

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, November 2, 2009 at 9:11 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, October 29, 2009 at 15:30 (PDT)

And someone must have been thinking exactly what Aaron Gregson was thinking because here is an 8 minute segment from the BBC BREAKFAST SHOW that made it to YouTube. I'm not sure if that is the one to which Aaron was referring. Please, if you DO decide to order the Collection, order from the link below so this site receives the credit. Or you can click on the Atgbcentral UK link above, click on the category "Geoffrey, Jenny, Philip, Joan" on the left and the item is first on the page. If you're in the UK the item should ship for free.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 17:58 (PDT)

Click here to visit Nine's website

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 17:12 (PDT)

Aaron Gregson
Redditch, UK -- Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 15:35 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 10:20 (PDT)

I haven't visited the website very much, of late - but, when I did to-day, I was somewhat surprised to see that the last comments were dated 2007. Has the website been closed down?

The reason I felt impelled to have a look at the website to-day was that I've just finished a delightful book - "The World According To Bertie", by Alexander McCall Smith. I've read a couple of his books now, but the ones about 44 Scotland Street, Edinburgh, have a fairly central character Domenica MacDonald, a freelance anthropologist. The way Domenica speaks reminds me so much of Judi Dench, that I hope that, should the series ever be filmed, they plump for DJD. And perhaps Geoffrey Palmer could be cast as Angus Lordie, a portrait artist, who has a dog called Cyril, who has a gold tooth. A wonderful tale!

My wife & I celebrated our 50 years of wedded bliss earlier this month, &, after much thought, decided that the complete series of "A Fine Romance" would be our gift to each other, rather than anything else. By coincidence, "As Time Goes By" is being re-played on UK-TV, here in Australia, & it's still enjoyable, even after 11 0r 12 viewings, plus having it all on video, (which we must convert to DVD.)

I hope you can tell me that the website is still going strong.

Kind regards,

NOTE FROM BONNIE: First, Ross, let me assure you that the site is alive and as current as I can make it, except for my glaring failure to do any sort of profile of the new Harry (Daniel Ryan). Congratulations on reaching the Fifty Year mark.

When you want to read the comments section it is best to go thru the home page at atgbcentral.com and click on the blue (latest news) link. That should resolve the problem. Or you can refresh the page. (I wrote a personal reply to Ross explaining this so he should be able to see it now. I am including this response in my reply in case this happens to someone else).

It occurs to me that you might not have intended this not as a comment (so I didn't post your whole name), but it went to the comments mailbox anyway (because of the subject line) and I'd really like to share it with the readers of the section and with those of you who might be able to influence Judi's career. I'm quite excited at the thought that Judi could actually be doing something that suits her. Alexander McCall Smith is a prolific writer, possibly best known for The #1 Ladies' Detective Agency series of books, but there are quite a few developed lead characters in his works. The World According to Bertie is available at Amazon. If you click on the link you can read the beginning of the book (click on the picture of the book) and there is also a link to a page with a short biography. He has won many prizes in his lifetime and I found it interesting to note that "He lives in Scotland, where in his spare time he is a bassoonist in the RTO (Really Terrible Orchestra)."

Ross
Sunshine Coast, Australia -- Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 11:07 (PDT)

For the moment that's all I know -- and, obviously, that covers what will happen only in the U.S. You can look around the Masterpiece Classics site and see if you find anything more specific, but I really wouldn't think you'll be giving the video to anyone this Christmas. Right now Masterpiece Contemporary will be running, but I'll keep watching for more news. And, by the way, I also read that the only two people "attached" to the next Bond Film (Number 23) are Daniel Craig and Judi Dench. I'm not sure I know what that means. Lots of rumors.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, October 26, 2009 at 9:49 (PDT)

Many thanks to Margaret LaFontaine for sending me the latest newsletter of the Rose Theatre, which is much too large to post, but from it I got the following information regarding the latest play of which Finty Williams is a part. Here is a short trailer for Bedroom Farce. THE SUMMARY: Four couples, three bedrooms, two celebrations and an illicit kiss (or two). Peter Hall directs a major revival of Alan Ayckbourn's legendary 1970's comedy which shines a brilliant spotlight onto the trials and tribulations of suburban marriage.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, October 26, 2009 at 7:16 (PDT)

Nil disputandum de gustibus is the Latin for it, and A chacun de gout is the French - certainly not meant as a put-down but as a recognition that the wide variety of personalities among the human race will result in differing attitudes towards art, events, etc.

Although I admire Judi's performances, there were some movies that were not to my taste and I doubt if I will see Nine or Rage but can understand that some fans wouldn't miss any of her movies.

I admire Bonnie's consistent presentations of Judi's (and the rest of the ATGB cast) activities which are offered to her readers as information with an open ended invitation to judge for ourselves and always remember that Judi is NOT Jean. It's just another amazing performance of a character, not a real rendition of the actress herself. M.P.Butterfield
Boston, MA USA -- Monday, October 26, 2009 at 6:38 (PDT)

Thank you for sharing "The Pig of Happiness". We can never share enough smiles! While viewing the video, I couldn't help but recall the episode of ATGB when Jean accompanies Lionel to buy a new suit for the book launch. After they left the store, Lionel got a bit silly and kept smiling that 'weird' smile...just like the pigs in the video.

Best wishes,

Margaret
Clearfield, KY USA -- Sunday, October 25, 2009 at 17:55 (PDT)

Beth, it could only be taken as a put-down by someone who really doesn't "know and understand" Bonnie. We both could be wrong, but we doubt very much if Sue interpreted it in that way.

Bonnie's use of these words was simply a reference to earlier use and discussion of the phrase (and various translations of it) in several letters that pre-date the letters in question. Bonnie emphasized this fact by prefacing her reply with the word "BECAUSE," ~ i.e. "Because you can't account for taste."

The large group of us who were privileged to meet Bonnie in New York City to see "Amy's View" together more than ten years ago, and who know her well after all these years, understand that Bonnie would not make such a remark as a "put-down" to anyone.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: What I actually said in response to Sue was "Because you you can't account for taste, those are all legitimate reasons for liking a film." (We had discussed the origin of that expression the week before and I just assumed that was a given for someone who had been following the conversation.) I have used this expression quite often, both in my personal life as well as in the comments section in relation to many, many things other than Rage. In fact, over the years, there have been several thought-provoking discussions about taste, all of which I encourage. There's nothing I like more than free speech. Thank you, ladies, for knowing that. I even went back into the archives and found that I said it to you once, Emma, in relation to a joke made at the Academy Awards that triggered lots of discussion. In the end, it doesn't matter at all if people agree or disagree with what I have to say. And, of course, it is never my intention to be nasty to anyone.

Meggie and Emma
Parts East, USA -- Sunday, October 25, 2009 at 9:02 (PDT)

Evelyn
San Diego CA USA -- Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 1:47 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 9:27 (PDT)

I must say I was totally prepared to hate it. I am a "period drama" addict --- so, this movie was totally out of my comfort zone.

It was so different --- I found the concept interesting and quite creative. I appreciated Sally Potter's endeavor to do something so "out there" and unique. I admire people who are willing to think out of the box and try something different Dame Judi is known for this, so I think this was perfect for her. She was fabulous --- as were Jude Law and Steve Buscemi.

As I watched the movie, I felt like I was watching ART.

I commend Sally Potter and her creative team and the actors for having the inspiration and courage to try and bring something like this to the big screen.

Mary Bentley
Cullman, AL USA -- Thursday, October 23, 2009 at 12:48 (PDT)

Bonnie,

I was just reading the reviews that you and Sue wrote about the film Rage. I preface with I have not seen the film.

What I am writing about is your response to Sue's disagreeing with you about the film. The way you started your comment "There is no accounting for taste", could be taken as a put down to her.

. . .My honest opinion is that a review is what one person thinks about the film. I don't let a review tell me whether I can or should see a film or not. If I want to see a film I will go to it and make my own decision. From what I read about Rage I am not interested in seeing it, even though Judi is in it.

Maybe you didn't mean the line the way I interpreted it. But, if I interpreted it the way I said in the beginning others may have too.

Also, as I said a review is the opinion of the person writing it. Taking a person's word as gospel about how good a film is or isn't to me is for lack of a better explanation ridiculous. I think another way to put it is the right to choose. Used differently than the way we all hear that phrase used today. We all have the right to choose and I feel the right should be respected. I am not talking about the way the phrase is more commonly used today. (I am trying to not go in a different direction).

Bonnie, I am sorry if you don't like this. If you don't print it, is up to you. I am just responding to the way I interpreted what you wrote in response to Sue's opinion of the film.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I fully support the right to choose always. What I said was not an opinion; it was a fact: there is no accounting for taste -- including mine. You are entitled to your opinions and I am more than happy to allow you to express them.

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 16:44 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 8:03 (PDT)

A while back I talked about a Radio 4 program called Beauty of Britain. A review of this show listed Geoffrey Palmer as a featured player. I've been following these shows for the last 3 episodes (there are 6 in all) and this week's episode, entitled Girl With A Polycotton Tabard finally featured Geoffrey as Mr. Clark. I looked ahead at Episode 4 and noticed that his is not listed in the cast so I really don't know whether or not there will be more of him in the coming weeks, but if you want to investigate, click the link.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, October 19, 2009 at 16:56 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, October 18, 2009 at 11:04 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks for letting us know, Connie. I found a clearer picture of the duck at eBay, so I'll post it here for those of you who will not have one of your own. I found them doing a search for Judi duck. I saw two on sale (one a "Buy it now"), but there may be more under a different search. Good hunting.

Connie
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Saturday, October 17, 2009 at 8:13 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, October 16, 2009 at 11:04 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 11:00 (PDT)

And although, this subject has pretty much been exhausted, in the interest of keeping you informed about Judi's recent activities here's article from the Guardian and another video from the Times online.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at 8:21 (PDT)

My feeling is that her fall took more out of her than she thought but "The Show Must Go On" !!

My photo (not brilliant) can be seen here :-

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thank you so much for sending this comment -- we all appreciate it.

Aaron Gregson
Location Unknown -- Monday, October 12, 2009 at 11:34 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, October 12, 2009 at 9:14 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, it was the first thing that crossed my mind.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, October 11, 2009 at 19:51 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, October 11, 2009 at 12:37(PDT)

Thanks to the folks at BBC 7's Listen Again you have seven days to Listen to Judi The Importance of Being Earnest.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, October 11, 2009 at 10:58(PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: And I will treasure the duck!

Evelyn
Clemson, SC USA -- Saturday, October 10, 2009 at 13:07 (PDT)

A short time ago I told you about the Limited-Edition "Judi" duck that Judi designed in order to raise money for Cancer Research UK's latest campaign. I'd like to thank Evelyn Goodman, who has been a long time visitor to these pages. She bought a couple of these ducks and was kind enough to send me one of them. You should have seen my dog's face when I opened it and squeaked the duck. She's not used to having toy-like things around that do not belong to her, but she'll never get close to this one again. Thank you so much Evelyn.

AND TWO MORE THINGS: You can click on the headline below to read a story about Nine. Also I neglected to mention that the photographs of the cast in the picture below below were shot by Annie Leibovitz for Vogue Magazine -- and here's a side article about that.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, October 9, 2009 at 15:15(PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, October 9, 2009 at 13:25(PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, October 9, 2009 at 8:18(PDT)

Thanksgiving or Christmas? Your guess is as good as mine. I imagine that whenever it opens it won't be in the Las Vegas area any time soon.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 16:54(PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 10:59(PDT)

Jim Sarber
Oklahoma City, OK USA -- Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at 12:00 (PDT)

Just to let everyone know -- Philip Bretherton has kindly hand signed a As Time Goes By DVDs for a competition on his Official website and a couple of signed ATGB DVD's which will be auctioned a bit later in the month for charity. Plus updates and news about current and future TV projects and he has also answered some questions from fans. Please go over to visit the site at www.philipbretherton.co.uk.

Thanks,

Sarah
London, UK -- Saturday, October 3, 2009 at 13:07 (PDT)

And while I'm posting information on Judi's doings -- here's where you can get information about next year's appearance at Kingston in Midsummer Night's Dream. She'll be appearing February 9 - March 20, 2010. The play will be directed by Peter Hall.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, October 3, 2009 at 8:28(PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, October 2, 2009 at 16:02(PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Friday, October 2, 2009 at 11:44(PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, October 2, 2009 at 9:10 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 18:19 (PDT)

Jan M.
Bend, OR USA -- Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 11:06(PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: When I want to read the opinions of reviewers I often go to Rotten Tomatoes or Imdb and you can click on these links to get some feedback about Rage. On the whole I haven't read many of them and, actually, there haven't been many of them. I guess people either really like it or really don't like it. Maybe, once it has been available in the U.S., it might engender more reviews, but I don't know that there's too much to say about it once you've discussed the obvious style of it.

This morning I mentioned the Yoko Ono film and I talked with a friend of mine who told me that he believed the "actor" in the film (which he thought was simply called "Smile") was John Lennon and that the whole film was played in slow motion over that long period of time, so that the acting itself was accomplished quickly. I found it on IMDB -- it was also called No. 5 -- and John and Yoko were both given credit as Writers and Directors of this 51 minute film. There was one review, which reminded me of most reviews given to Rage.

As for the Philip Seymour Hoffman film it got marvelous reviews which I am still reading and many of the reviewers, who admit to being confused by it, have indicated that they feel it must be seen many times before coming to an understanding of what it represents. That was my initial feeling because it held me captive for just over 2 hours. I could have shut it off, but I didn't because I sensed that I was watching something worthwhile and that I should reserve judgement until at least I saw it a second time. That was never a feeling I felt while looking at Rage. I struggled to keep myself seated for the entire length of the film, and I know a second, third or fourth viewing would not have changed my mind. I really understood very little about it and I don't understand the references to Marmalade and/or Irony. It did not seem very clear to me at all.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 11:06(PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Because you you can't account for taste, those are all legitimate reasons for liking a film. Each one of those actors you mentioned would be on my list of favorites. It is my opinion that nothing in this film was about the actors. To me it was a self-indulgent salute to style by Sally Potter. I remember the 60s and the phenomenon of the happening. I remember being in the theatre watching a film by Yoko Ono and my memory surely is hazy, but it went something like this: there was a single shot of a person, maybe John Lennon, close up and staring at the camera. The film went on for a long, long time -- maybe an hour -- and this was the premise: he smiled. So if you walked in at the beginning there was no smile and in the middle he was starting to smile and at the end he was full on smiling. The weird thing was that nothing else was going on, so one by one, or two by two people slowly started walking on stage doing odd things, like tap dancing, in front of the screen. I might have stayed throughout the "film" and I might have enjoyed myself and I'm sure I told others about it, but I was never moved to see another Yoko Ono film.

I love Eddie Izzard -- I have most of his comic performances on DVD and I'm so sorry that The Riches was taken off the air. I watched Five Days with David Oyelowo and I was absolutely transfixed by his performance. Dianne Weist almost always turns in outstanding performances from Hannah and her Sisters to In Treatment. Coincidentally, I saw a movie just two days ago that I'm not sure I know how to describe. It featured Dianne Weist along with the wonderful Philip Seymour Hoffman as well as many other award winning and nominated players and, I've got to say, it certainly made me feel (as an audience member) that someone was having a laugh at my expense. It was a bizarre film called Synecdoche, N.Y. and I had read somewhere that it was great. It, like Rage, seemed to come straight out of the sixties, but at least I think there were some wonderful, challenging performances and it offered a lot to talk about -- at least in my household. It was about a movie director who lived in New York (in a real town which is an anagram of the title) and in it there are several realities which often overlap. I've been meaning to go online and read other reviews. It's quite possible I'm in the minority about that one. I have no idea. But at least I know there was a great deal of thought put into it and it was quite an elaborate plot. I'm sure that if I read more reviews I will get a better understanding of this film, which at times made sense and at other times made none. At least it made me want to know more about it. Once again, I would say that there is no accounting for taste. Sorry for the rambling, but I really see a comparison there.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 7:20 (PDT)

After its premiere on Mobile, RAGE is now coming online. Starting on Monday September 28, watch RAGE: Day 1-Episode 1 The next episode will be live on Thursday October 1. The following episodes will arrive online next week. (Monday and Thursday)

Sally Potter's star-studded ode to the fashion world, RAGE is the world's first feature film to debut on mobile phones. This unique mobile premiere links directly with Sally Potter's vision for the film, as RAGE tells the story of a New York fashion show through a series of intimate interviews, as if shot by a college student on his mobile phone over a seven-day period.

I'm sorry about the mistake, but I think the link is still correct to get the rest of the movie. If not, it should be easy to find.

Here's an interview with Sally Potter during which she answers ten questions that shed more light on the movie.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 7:37 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: It IS funny and . . . a small world. I had a friend who used that expression all the time but he said it like this: "non gustibus disputandum" (which he said meant "there's no accounting for taste") and over the years I have used it often in situations such as this. Viva la difference. . .

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Monday, September 28, 2009 at 19:17 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, September 28, 2009 at 11:55 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, September 28, 2009 at 12:10 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Sunday, September 27, 2009 at 10:37 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thank you very much for the support. I also received my copy a few days ago and plan to watch it straight through tonight.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Friday, September 25, 2009 at 22:33 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, September 23, 2009 at 16:41 (PDT)

	Thanks to Glenda for letting me know about the upcoming event called Swing on a Star, of which Judi is a part. It is being held, according to the invitation, at the Bloomsbury Theatre. Click for pictures from the event, which was last held in 2007 at the Almeida Theatre or read the story about 2007's event here. For ticket information email The Friends United Network

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, September 23, 2009 at 3:55 (PDT)

Oh, I know I said I'd shut up already about Rage, but I guess it is pretty historic to have the movie debut on mobile phones. Here are some screen shots of what it actually looks like on the screen (as for the movie itself, I'm sure that those of you who are interested have already seen previews which have been online for quite a while. Well, that's what it looks like on the Iphone too, only smaller.) I watched episode one while I was computing and, frankly, I don't think Judi was in it yet, but if you want to see a good review for Judi, check out this site. I did not see episodes 2 or 3 as yet, but I did order the DVD as most die-hard fans did (thank you, if you ordered it from my site) and I might just wait to watch it all at once.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, September 23, 2009 at 9:32 (PDT)

Jenny Funnell, as I mentioned earlier, is making her Broadway debut in Hamlet. The show is in previews now and will run through December 6th. Go to this website and click on Hamlet to get ticket information. I'm not sure whether or not Jenny will be seen on on Live with Regis & Kelly on this coming Friday, September 25, but Jude Law will be featured.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, September 23, 2009 at 8:08 (PDT)

Evalynn Christiansen
Houston, TX USA -- Monday, September 21, 2009 at 7:40 (PDT)

ATTENTION JUDI DENCH ARTIFACT COLLECTORS: The Rage DVD will be available at Amazon US on Tuesday, September 22 and at Amazon UK on Monday, September 28. Click either link to pre-order. One last reminder: the movie will be shown at Babelgum.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 17:54 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 17:48 (PDT)

I just was watching ET and saw a sort of montage of NINE. Looks good. They said November 26 date of release.

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Friday, September 18, 2009 at 17:30(PDT)

These photos were taken yesterday evening at the Collars and Cuffs Ball in London which was held at the Royal Opera House. Sitting next to Judi is her daughter, Finty. The charity raises money to help abandoned animals find new homes.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, September 18, 2009 at 17:04 (PDT)

The good news appears to be that there will be another comedy featuring Geoffrey called Beauty of Britain which will begin on October 5. I don't know that this will make up for my not mentioning Maltby 3, but it might prove to be interesting and there is plenty of time to mark your calendar if you are a big Geoffrey fan.

Here's a brief biography of Geoffrey that I found online. There's more about him in the main pages (Curiosities, p.30 and on):

Geoffrey Palmer is a master of deadpan drollery. His hangdog countenance and understated comedic style are two of the main reasons that his TV situation comedies are popular not only in Britain but also in America. Among the best-loved of his sitcoms -- which enjoy a long afterlife in the rerun market -- are The Rise and Fall of Reginald Perrin and As Time Goes By. In the latter sitcom, Palmer co-stars with one of the U.K.'s most esteemed actresses, Judi Dench. They play old flames reunited after 40 years. Palmer has also performed in other popular TV comedies, including Fawlty Towers, Executive Stress, Fairly Secret Army, Hot Metal, Butterflies, and Whoops Apocalypse. In addition, his finespun wit and waggery has enlivened many a film production, such as Rat, A Fish Called Wanda, and The Madness of King George.

Palmer was born in London on June 4, 1927. After a brief career in business, he discovered his acting talent in amateur theater, then became a stage manager and eventually a full-time performer. Like so many other outstanding British actors, he studied and acted in plays written by the greatest popularizer of situation comedies, William Shakespeare. His role as Quince in A Midsummer Night's Dream is well known to fans of BBC Shakespeare productions. However, Palmer has not limited himself to comedies; he has also performed in productions in other genres, such as Mrs. Brown (a drama about Queen Victoria as a widow), Tomorrow Never Dies (a James Bond adventure), and Anna and the King (a historical/costume epic about an Englishwoman's relationship with the King of Siam). Thanks to his resonant voice, Palmer has also obtained work doing TV commercials, selling everything from veal to varooming cars.

In his leisure time, he enjoys foraying into nature with his wife, Sally, who introduced him to trout and salmon fishing. They have two children.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, September 17, 2009 at 8:38 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, September 17, 2009 at 7:49 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, September 16, 2009 at 13:33 (PDT)

Here's a story which has been kicked back and forth over the years and it sounds as though it is nearing a resolution. The Shakespeare in Love set is slated to be reborn as a theatre. Read about it and then get Michael Billington's take on the situation.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, September 14, 2009 at 12:28 (PDT)

Here are a couple of interesting things I found in my email this morning. At left is an example of a photograph called The Half by Simon Annand. You can click the link and get a bit of background on his new book, which is available at Amazon in the UK. If you want to buy the book I'd rather you click on this link for my Amazon UK store and get it there than to click the link in the article. If the article makes you want to know more about Annand's works, and you happen to be in the Salford area in the UK you might want to visit his upcoming exhibit -- it starts Saturday and ends just after the new year. A reminder: Rage premieres on the Iphone's Babelgum application a week from today. There are many clips already available on the web as well as on the Iphone. This morning I got an email announcing a draw for free tickets, which says in part: THE DRAW FOR FREE TICKETS TO THE EVENT AT LONDON'S BFI SOUTHBANK WILL TAKE PLACE NEXT WEEK. RUNNERS-UP WILL BE OFFERED THE CHOICE OF TICKETS TO RAGE AT THEIR NEAREST CINEMA OR A DVD. PLEASE VISIT WWW.RAGETHEMOVIE.COM/SCREENINGS AND SEND US AN E-MAIL WITH THE NAME OF YOUR NEAREST CINEMA SHOWING THE RAGE PREMIERE. OR TELL US IF YOU WOULD PREFER A DVD. There are lots of things to see at the website to which the email refers, including a link to Itunes music store where you can obtain your copy of Babelgum (for which you need the Iphone or Ipod touch).

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, September 14, 2009 at 7:56 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 7:46 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Friday, September 11, 2009 at 22:48 (PDT)

In a small room in a large hotel in London, a woman often described as our greatest national treasure -- the actress who once beat the Queen into second place as Britain's most liked and respected person -- is sounding off about modern life. She isn't holding back. As she has grown older, Dame Judi Dench says, grey eyes sparkling with laughter, she has become more and more angry.

"I hear myself saying things that I know old people say. Like when I want to ring up about something," her voice lowers dramatically, "and I get that fucking recorded message which tells me to press one, two, three or four, and then you press four and there are two more recorded messages and YOU CANNOT TALK TO ANYBODY! It makes me absolutely mad." What happens when she finally gets through and the operator realises to whom they're speaking? "I don't give them a chance to comment. I just give them an absolute mouthful and ring off." She chuckles.

Dench is not at all what I expected. On the one hand, I am used to reading that she is saintly, sweet and suburban. This is clearly not the case. She wears her anger with twinkling pride. On the other, based on her recent parts -- including a pair of queens, Lady Bracknell and a borderline psychopath -- I was imagining someone grand, slightly terrifying.

That last expectation increased after seeing her latest film, Rage, a strange, experimental project that features 14 actors playing fictional figures in and around the fashion world, who give monologues before a plain backdrop. There's Jude Law as a self-absorbed model; Eddie Izzard as a slick mogul; then, as fashion critic Mona Carvell, Dench looms on screen, her mouth a bloody slash, eye sockets lined with kohl. Carvell is a skull of a woman, much given to haughty pronouncements: "Fashion is not an art form -- if it's anything at all, it's pornography." She is tough, steel-eyed, sour.

The woman who plays her is none of these. Well, tough, possibly. But rather than seeming grand or intimidating, Dench is actressy in the best way: spirited, playful, her ring-heavy hands gesturing expressively, touching wood, miming a memory. I ask what she thinks of Rage, and she says she hasn't seen it, and motions to the poster, "I'm reading the cast list for the first time now!" She was attracted to working with British arthouse director Sally Potter, and the fact that it was unlike anything she'd done before. "I like to do something that's not expected, or predictable. I had to learn to smoke a joint, and I set my trousers alight. I've never been good with cigarettes."

Rage is the latest twist in a surprising late film career. Dench is 74, and just over a decade ago -- at an age when most actresses are bemoaning the lost limelight -- she began a path to six Oscar nominations. "It's all very surprising," she says, "because it came so accidentally. It came because Harvey [Weinstein, the producer] saw Mrs Brown, which had been made for television, and said it should be a film." Weinstein's company, Miramax, went on to distribute Iris, Chocolat and Mrs Henderson Presents; Dench has joked that, "Harvey's name [is] tattooed on my bum."

Her film career seems even more unlikely when you consider that, as a young actress, Dench was told that she had "everything wrong" with her face. She doesn't seem to have been bothered. "I didn't think I'd have a film career at all, but theatre's what I love most, anyway. If you'd said to me 49 years ago that I'd come to enjoy the process of filming, I wouldn't have believed you."

Dench's love of acting stretches back to childhood, and a junior school performance as a snail. She grew up with a GP father, Reginald -- official doctor to the Theatre Royal, York -- a passionate Irish mother, Olave, and two older brothers. The family were keen amateur actors; in the 50s, father, mother and a teenage Judi appeared in the York mystery plays. By this time, Dench had abandoned her plan to be a ballerina -- "My Dad said, 'You do know that if you're a dancer, you will probably have to give up when you're about 40'" -- and after a brief dalliance with theatre design, she followed her brother Jeffery to study acting at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London.

She left with a first-class degree, then pitched headlong into a high-profile role as Ophelia opposite John Neville as Hamlet at the Old Vic. Expectations were high; the reviews were bad. "She trips over her own publicity and falls flat on her pretty face," wrote one critic. Dench found the attention difficult. "Kenneth Tynan gave me a very good notice, and so did Milton Shulman, so I clung to those two like a man with a piece of straw. It was very hard, but maybe it's good when you get a hammering so soon."

She seems to have been fueled by insecurity ever since. Has she had any period out of work, I ask, and she slams her glass on the table and grasps the wood for luck. Should I not even have asked? She shakes her head, tight-lipped, eyes darting nervously. "I'm not going to answer!" she says finally. "I've always been very, very insecure about where the next job is coming from."

But surely she can rest on her laurels? "No," she says quickly. Is she a workaholic? "Yes," comes even quicker. She has just filmed the musical Nine, and says that when she was cast, "I was absolutely overcome. I don't take any of it for granted, ever."

It often seems Dench has spent her life trying to recreate the theatrical family that surrounded her as a child. Her happiest times are in a company, and she sticks up vociferously for workmates. With Cranford, she felt the crew were "worked to the utmost limit to get it done. And they did it beautifully. I wrote to Mark Thompson [director general of the BBC] and said that it's impossible to do that amount of work in less time than that. I also mentioned that intensely irritating thing, that the moment a programme is over, the cast list flashes by, then the credits are moved to the side of the screen and you can't see the crew. Well, I heard subsequently that they said, 'Oh, only people's mothers complain about that.' But in actual fact a lot of people complain about it. I quite like when I've seen a thing to know who's best boy and who's the gaffer. I still don't know who directed Bleak House. It's people's careers, and somebody watching it might think, 'God, that's beautifully done.' Well, good luck if they want to find out who did it."

As a young actress, Dench loved being in rep, where you could "make mistakes, and have a go at playing some terribly old person when you were 23. Ideally, what I'd like is to be in a company and not be doing the same play every night." She harks back to Stratford in the 70s, when she "was doing Macbeth, and Comedy Of Errors, and Much Ado, and King Lear. I was asked once, 'But when you're playing Lady Macbeth, that must take over your entire day?' And I said, 'Well, it can't because in the evening I've got to play Beatrice in Much Ado. So it's a quick slough off at tea time.'"

It was around this time that her status as a national treasure began to build, and over the years this has inspired some quotes that, even if jokey, are nauseating. Stephen Fry said, "Railings should be built around [Dench] so that all may admire her in an orderly and respectful fashion"; Kate Winslet said she "would work with Judi if I had to be a tea lady hovering in the back of frame"; and Ian McKellen was moved to suggest that "one of the great joys of being alive in England in the 21st century is being around when Judi Dench is".

McKellen starred with Dench in Macbeth, and has implied that, whatever role she plays, the audience fall in love with her. "Crap!" she says. "Crap. He's talking through a hole in his arse." I ask how she feels about being designated a national treasure, and she makes a face. "I don't like that very much, I'm afraid. That sounds pretty dusty to me. It's Alan Bennett and I behind glass in some forgotten old cupboard. I don't like it at all."

Is there any role that could banish that reputation? She points to Barbara Covett, her character in Notes On A Scandal, a creepy, conniving, deluded woman. "I think that gave it a bit of a boot." She was upset a few months back when the British Board of Film Classification published its annual report, which said that every film she swears in prompts complaints from the public. "That upset me terribly, because I thought, in a way, that cancelled out the last 52 years. I thought 'Does nobody ever believe anything I do? Can't they for a minute think that I am playing another person, in another world, with another personality? Must they write and complain that it came out of my mouth?' I was very depressed about it."

Dench's reputation does seem strange -- after all, contemporaries such as Maggie Smith and Vanessa Redgrave don't inspire the same expectations of sweetness. And it's not as though she has shied away from risk. In the 70s, she starred in the BBC play, Langrishe Go Down, in which she had to appear nude. "Well, I was allowed to wear espadrilles and a wig and earrings. And I had the most wonderful dresser called Lizzie. I was terribly nervous, and I had to run across a meadow to this bush, where Lizzie was hiding, and she said, 'Judi, you look like a lovely birthday card!'"

She thinks her saintly reputation may stem from the fact that she has appeared "in situation comedies, so I'm in people's sitting rooms a lot", and it probably is the breadth of her career that inspires such wide-reaching devotion. For lovers of high art, there are her Shakespearean roles. For musicals fans, there are performances in A Little Night Music, and as Sally Bowles in the first London production of Cabaret (Hal Prince, who directed her, considered Dench "the most effective of all the people who played the part"). Those who like costume drama are rewarded with Cranford; those who like sitcom get A Fine Romance and As Time Goes By. There are the credible films, such as Notes On A Scandal, and less credible ones, such as The Chronicles Of Riddick. Then there are the Bond films. Did she enjoy coming in as Bond's boss, M, to break up the boys' club of those films? "You bet. Give them a bit of a ticking off, yes." Is she a feminist? "No, I wouldn't call myself a feminist at all, really. I don't know what a feminist is. I believe in women having a say."

Is she political in other ways? She says she's "very, very angry about Iraq. And I'm very angry that we seem to be in such a mess and [all the politicians] take 16 weeks' holiday. That makes me despair." Does she think the country would be in better shape if the Tories came in? "No," she says, "I just think that it would be better if. . . . I don't know. I just remember dancing in the streets when Labour got in." She once went on a Ban The Bomb march with Vanessa Redgrave: "I think Van was arrested, but she had a matinee," so they let her off. Redgrave was a contemporary of Dench's at drama school, and once wrote they were all envious of her natural ease. I put this to Dench, and she shrieks. "We were all very envious of Vanessa! At drama school, they would say, 'Now, it's prologues', and all of us were completely, totally inept, except Vanessa." Are they still friends? "Yes! Yes we are."

She is great friends with Maggie Smith, too -- she has always been surrounded by actors, even away from the stage. Her brother Jeffery still acts, as does her daughter, Finty Williams, who has just been cast in a production of Bedroom Farce, directed by Sir Peter Hall. But the shadow of Dench's success hasn't always been easy for others: Finty has talked of times when she thought, "I'm never going to live up to this woman's image." And Geoffrey Palmer has said of the actor Michael Williams, to whom Dench was happily married for 30 years, that "the fact that all his married life he was Mr Judi Dench, that's difficult for any man".

Michael died of cancer in 2001, and Dench says she hopes her success wasn't a problem for him. "It shouldn't have been, because he was such a good actor, and has done such marvellous things. I think it's only if other people's attitude towards you is rather selective" -- if they single you out -- "and you're with your family. I don't like that. It's bad manners on other people's parts."

She has always liked to live with extended family, and her daughter still comes to stay during the week; they share the house with five cats, a dog and two fish, "one of which I saved from drowning by giving him the kiss of life". He used to be called Rhubarb. Now he's called Lazarus.

Terry Hands, a director at the RSC in the 70s, once said that "at least half the company was in love with [Dench]. She was a pin-up for many young men." Does she still get a lot of propositions? "No! No, you don't get any propositions when you're rising 75." She laughs. "I have a lot of very, very good friends." There is a long pause, and I ask if she's lonely. "Sometimes I get quite lonely, yes. Well, I'm not good at my own company. So, um, of course it would be." She stops briefly, and thinks, her eyes misting up. Then she gets firm with herself. "Oh no, I'm not even going to go there. But, um, yes. . . ." There is another long pause. "Anybody who's had a very happy marriage must feel the same. On the one side, you feel fantastically lucky you had what we had -- we knew each other 39 years and were married for 30. And yet, when the person is not there, you suddenly think, oof, it's not wonderful." She pauses, then spits out her next words. "That's rather a stupid reply." Not at all. She looks wrung out. "It is."

Still, work makes her happy, and she has no plans for retirement -- the idea is anathema. Does she get a kick out of every new job? "I certainly do. I've never got through a job without suddenly having a problem come up in front of me that I have no idea how to tackle." Is that what keeps her going? "Yes, I like that. I love it."

While I'm mentioning new things, here's an article which tells you what Philip Bretherton has been up to. He'll be playing the role of Professor Higgins in a new production of Pygmalian.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, September 11, 2009 at 5:58 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, September 9, 2009 at 14:53 (PDT)

An interview describing the touring production (without Geoffrey) can be seen here.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, September 4, 2009 at 8:16 (PDT)

Ira Steinberg
Congers, NY USA -- Friday, September 4, 2009 at 7:24 (PDT)

Mary
Baton Rouge, LA USA -- Monday, August 31, 2009 at 12:03 (PDT)

Thank you for posting my comment so quickly and for the welcome. I'm sorry Judi has never been to the south, especially Mississippi. I think she would enjoy a visit as ATGB fans down here would show her true southern hospitality.

Angela
Collinsville, MS USA -- Wednesday, August 26, 2009 at 16:48 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at 19:18 (PDT)

I have been reading the tribute page for quite some time, but this is the first time I have ever written. I, too, LOVE ATGB. The PBS station here only shows ATGB on Saturday nights. I wish it were more as I enjoy watching it tremendously.

Question: Has Judi ever been to the deep south?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Welcome Angela. I'm glad you decided to post. Normally I'm pretty quick about posting comments, but I was so disgusted after seeing that the Cubs were losing 15-5 in the 8th inning that I just shut down the computer early last night.

As for your question, I can't say I'm 100 pct certain, but I really doubt that Judi's been in the South; if she has, I've never seen it mentioned. I know she's been to New York and Los Angeles, but I don't think she even came here to Las Vegas when she was honored by ShoWest in 2001. She seems to have loved the time she spent in New York City because she talks about it all the time.

Angela
Collinsville, MS USA -- Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at 18:48 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Monday, August 24, 2009 at 8:09 (PDT)

Connie
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Sunday, August 16, 2009 at 9:00 (PDT)

UPDATE: Plans for an ecotown in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, appear to have been put on hold.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, August 16, 2009 at 7:54 (PDT)

As for Dame Judi playing Titania again, I am sure that between Peter Hall and Dame Judi they will strike the right note and make a tasteful, albeit aged, fairy! It shall be interesting.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, August 15, 2009 at 19:11 (PDT)

This is the page on my site which carried the original story and the text of the poems that were read by Dame Judi and I extracted the video and put a link to it in the first paragraph.

And, in other news, Judi apparently feels that it's never to late to be a fairy.

Prof Stanley Wells, the chairman of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, says: "I have never heard of someone in their seventies playing Titania before, but there is something ageless about Judi."

Read more about this at the Telegraph.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, August 15, 2009 at 15:00 (PDT)

Mary Bentley
Cullman, Alabama USA -- Friday, August 14, 2009 at 11:25 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Friday, August 14, 2009 at 8:31 (PDT)

According to the article linked above: "The production will begin performances at the Rose Theatre, Kingston (in Surrey, on the outskirts of London) Feb. 9, 2010, prior to an official opening Feb. 15, for an exclusive run through March 20. It is the theatre's seventh home-grown production."

Judi will be playing the role of Titania. According to the article, Peter Hall's new production sees Titania, the Fairy Queen, as a portrait of the ageing Queen Elizabeth I, fascinated with the theatre, besieged by courtiers but "married to the people of England."

You can find ticket information at the Playbill web site. There is another article at whatsonstage.com.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, August 13, 2009 at 19:05 (PDT)

I thought the readers might enjoy hearing about the question my colleague got at our library's reference desk this morning. A person called in looking for a photo of a person being kicked in the face by a mule. Honest! The caller never mentioned Lionel's name, but fans that we are, the phrase certainly brought him to mind! So as ever, ATGB is interwoven in many parts of our lives.

We never did find such a picture!

Becky
Cullowhee, NC USA -- Thursday, August 13, 2009 at 10:56 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Also, it might help to visit this page and click on Literature Festival 2009 -- Now on sale to Members (under Festival Headlines at right).

Evelyn
SC, USA -- Sunday, August 9, 2009 at 13:52 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Sunday, August 9, 2009 at 10:51 (PDT)

Thought you might be interested - Judi will appear at the Cheltenham Festival on 10th October - in conversation with Richard Eyre.

Marian
Galashiels Scotland -- Friday, August 7, 2009 at 2:25 (PDT)

Warm regards,

Christopher Toth
St. Louis, Missouri USA -- Wednesday, August 6, 2009 at 21:10 (PDT)

What a class act it is. Every detail is elegant and humane. Each actor did his job to perfection. Each script was so insightful and emotionally healthy; I envied the writer's ability to see and feel and share with us so well.

Oh, heck, it's the tops, guys and gals. How about once a year reunion shows? Anything.... anything but goodbye forever.

... Long live As Time Goes By.

Johanna M. Brewer, journalist now living on the waters of the Chesapeake.
USA --Wednesday, August 5, 2009 at 12:10 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Here is a paragraph from an article on the premiere of the Shipping News:

He also gave her the biggest laugh of the shoot. For 15 years, Dench and an actor friend, Tim Pigott-Smith, have played an elaborate game of hide-and-seek with a black glove: It pops up on each other's film or theater sets, the more surprisingly the better. Spacey discovered this and had the glove sent to Newfoundland. He hung on to it for a full month, until the day Dench shot one of her most emotional scenes, in which Agnis dumps the ashes of the older brother she loathed down an outhouse, then ceremoniously pees on them. Spacey positioned himself under the outhouse, with the glove on a stick. As Dench lifted her skirts and squatted over the seat, "I felt something tickling my bottom,'' she says. ''Kevin says I jumped into the air, screaming. It took me quite a long time to recover, and it will take even longer to plan the proper revenge."

Sue
Portland, OR USA --Tuesday, August 4, 2009 at 21:15 (PDT)

---

I was not able to go back to the episode mentioned, but my remembrance is that it was Alistair's jacket, not his overalls, that was the same as Churchill's.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Alistair walks into Lionel's apartment and Lionel tells him that "Winston Churchill used to wear one of those" and Alistair says that his is reversible. Lionel responds to that by saying that "he was only the Prime Minister." That's all that was said about his appearance in the scene at the apartment.

Joan in PA
USA -- Monday, August 3, 2009 at 16:54 (PDT)

---

For better or worse WFYI Indianapolis is playing As Time Goes By. Again! Love it and hate it, I can't avoid watching it. Last week I noticed another Britishism in Season 3 episode 5. As Sandy and Alistair arrive at Lionel's flat to help him move, Sandy observes that Alistair is wearing "bespoke" coveralls. I really don't recall what word she uses for the garment, but bespoke means that they were custom tailored, quite a comment on Alistair's character, and setting up the later observation that Churchill's were not like those.

Hope you enjoy the insight.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, Alan, I DID enjoy it -- enough to make me go back and have a look at the episode and this is what I found: I saw that the person responsible for the closed captioning translated what Sandy said as: "I've never heard of this bloke ogles before." And the response shown for Alistair is "Mate of mine." It should have read "I've never heard of bespoke overalls before" and Alistair's response should have been "made of mine" -- or, as Alan suggested to me privately, it really could have been mate of mine, which would be in keeping with Alistair's character, as well. If you are interested in seeing "bespoke" in context you can find it here, along with other references in the article. Thanks for pointing this out to all of us.

Alan
Indianapolis, USA -- Monday, August 3, 2009 at 8:23 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, July 30, 2009 at 13:17 (PDT)

Denny
PA, USA -- Thursday, July 30, 2009 at 9:10 (PDT)

Hope you're doing well. Been enjoying reading your site, as always.

May have missed it in the comments, but in case not, I just wanted to drop you (and everyone else) a line letting you know that Geoffrey Palmer is featured in a new BBC radio adapation of a John LeCarre story titled "A Murder of Quality." It was first broadcast in May of 2009, and is now available on two-disc CD (it's about and hour and a half long).

The story is good, Geoffrey features prominently and sounds great.

Anyway, happy listening!

Take care,

NOTE FROM BONNIE: It's always great to hear from old friends, Matt. I thought of you just the other day. Your birthday still pops up on my calendar. And yes, I mentioned Geoffrey's radio broadcast while it was still available on "listen again." I checked just before posting this and it is no longer available online at the BBC website. There are very few copies left at Amazon in the US and all are third copy providers. There are 8 available thru the Atgbcentral Amazon UK store: Click on the link at the top of the page, look under books -- A Murder of Quality.

Matt
USA -- Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at 19:11 (PDT)

Thanks again for this wonderful site. ATGB is still my favorite program of all time and it is back on our local PBS station after an absence. Actor Nicholas Smith (Mr. Rumbold in Are You Being Served) will be in East Peoria, Illinois on Sunday, August 30 at 3:00 p.m. at Embassy Suites. It is called Tea with Mr. Rumbold. Tickets are on sale to the Public August 9 for $15 each. English tea, conversation, and time to take pictures with Mr. Smith.

Call WTVP for tickets. This seems to be a fundraiser for WTVP and perhaps some fans who are near would like to attend. I don't know if Mr. Smith is visiting any other areas.

I will not be in town to attend but as an old fan of AYBS I hope to send my daughter in my place.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks Carolyn. I removed the phone number from your comment because I would rather not post numbers that may get misprinted. I will, however, post the web page for WTVP and readers can get the phone number (it's on the page in the story about volunteering) and make any inquiries. I looked for a reference, but I did not see it listed as an event.

Carolyn
Peoria, IL USA -- Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at 8:22 (PDT)

Anyway, thanks for posting the article.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You're welcome.

I'm guessing that it was not formally recorded by a legitimate representative of the festival. I'm also guessing there is probably an unauthorized recording that is floating around somewhere that most people will never get to see or hear because that's what happens these days.

I mentioned earlier today that Rage would be coming out in the fall. Visit this site to see the trailer and enter a contest to win free tickets to see the premiere.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Monday, July 27, 2009 at 19:10 (PDT)

So here's the answer to your question, Mary. This article appeared this morning online in the Basingstoke Gazette and was written by Clare Hughes.

All I know is that for today at least the Chicago Cubs are in first place for the first time since April. On the other hand, I know nothing about a "new book" (Miller seems to update this particular book quite often.) And the black eye? Don't even ask.

Mymra posted a couple of videos on YouTube which show Dame Judi reading A Dog So Small, by Phillipa Pearce. There are some interesting illustrations in the videos. I will repost the audio for those who have not heard it and want to download it (right-click on the link). Also in the news (and mentioned before), Babelgum will premiere Rage in September.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, July 27, 2009 at 7:37 (PDT)

Hubby and I have seen all the As Time Goes By and he loves the show so much, he watches whatever repeats he can. During an interview on the Iowa PBS station, the younger girls on the show (ATGB) said that Judith [sic] did not even mention when she was up for or won awards. She is that common a person. Would love to have a reunion show.... I think it is pretty sad that Britain and Canada can make such great shows and then we in the states only get them on PBS or very late at night...Regenesis at 2am and DaVinci's Inquest.

Mickey & George
Cedar Rapids, IA USA -- Sunday, July 26, 2009 at 15:11 (PDT)

I was just reading back postings on the site. I was reading the ones about Judi using a few four letter words in a Bond film. I also read the link you had about the complaints that were received. I think it gets totally ridiculous that some people can't accept it is a role. If they don't like it then don't go see the film, play, or watch the TV show. She is playing a part. Sorry, but it things like that drive me crazy sometimes.

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Friday, July 24, 2009 at 9:59 (PDT)

Mary Bentley
Cullman, Alabama USA -- Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 11:11 (PDT)

If they would produce more series we would definitely be first in line to watch.

Lionel and Jean are terrific together; each of the actors is great, the girls are wonderful and Alistair is just one of a kind. Rocky and Madge also wonderful. They ALL are!!!

You know something, it is difficult to find adjectives enough to cover each of these actors. Please, Please, Please continue to present this program to us, the viewers.

Rick and Velora Gibson
Bothwell, Ontario, Canada --Sunday, July 19, 2009 at 13:21 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at 16:00 (PDT)

Bonnie:

I love the comments about Dame Judi making all the other actors around her perform better. Another thought struck me today, also.

I was listening to a CD this morning of some of Dame Judi's musical performances. The number that struck me was "You Must Meet My Wife/I Must Meet Your Wife," from A Little Night Music. In this duet, DJD sings and also sometimes speaks her retorts.

I was so struck by her vocal quality. Her voice just projected so crisply and so strongly and with such perfect control and diction.

She can be so soft-spoken when you meet her and she talks to fans ---- but on stage --- how very powerful she is!!!!! I kept thinking about this woman so small in stature with such a beautiful pleasant soft speaking voice --- who is able to reach to the very back rows of the theatre --- it is pure skill and simply magical how she does it. I do not think she is equaled in this by anyone!

Mary Bentley
Cullman, Alabama USA -- Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at 9:42 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Everything I've ever read about her seems to indicate she is a down-to-earth and genuine person who naturally gets on well with the people who work alongside her. It seems to me that she is an instinctive actress who does not do a lot of pre-planning for her role, specifically and for the atmosphere on set, in general. I'm guessing she made breakfast for Moira because it's the thing that hosts do when they have guests.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Monday, July 13, 2009 at 8:48 (PDT)

I agree with Joan; I think the caricatures are truly awful. The only thing resembling Judi was the arched eyebrow -- and even that was awful.

Liz
Midlothian Scotland -- Sunday, July 12, 2009 at 8:38 (PDT)

I have been watching As Time Goes By for years. I really enjoy it very much. I am also a huge fan of Joan Sims. I miss her very much.

Pat
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, July 11, 2009 at 22:02 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, July 11, 2009 at 9:56 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, July 11, 2009 at 7:22 (PDT)

James Bond fans in the UK will want to keep an eye out for this upcoming event at the Theatre Royal in Winchester.

Dame Judi Dench, who has now starred as MI6 chief "M" in the past six James Bond films, will be taking time out from filming further episodes of Cranford for BBC television to talk about her illustrated book on her life and career, Judi Dench: Scenes From My Life, which was originally published in late 2005.

This event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 19 July at 7:30 pm. Tickets to this event will cost 15 pounds and are available from the Theatre Royal Box Office.

For further details, [check the web link above for the phone number] or visit the event page at Waterstones.com.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, July 9, 2009 at 19:52 (PDT)

In addition to the show itself, we appreciate Bonnie's very special tribute at this site. The comments and ideas from all our fellow fans magnify the ATGB experience for us with new perspectives and helpful information. I even made a new friend, Judi of NJ, by getting in touch through ATGB Central -- we haven't met in person yet but still hope to. In particular, we owe a thank-you to Larry Lain, whose route of Jean and Lionel's country walk we loved following a few years ago and whose recommendation for a special dinner at the Babylon Roof Gardens we followed up on in 2007. And this year for our 50th anniversary, a most special occasion, fifteen or so family and friends from six states will join us for dinner at the Babylon in December. So, maybe ATGB didn't change the course of our already blessed lives, but it has added a permanent shine.

Dee Benson
Elkton MD USA -- Sunday, July 5, 2009 at 11:01 (PDT)

I know this isn't ATGB-related, but the readers of this site might want to know about the passing of Mollie Sugden, aka Mrs. Slocombe, of the classic series Are You Being Served?. NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thank you for telling us Mike. I'm certain her fans would have wanted to know. I have great memories of her in that series, which in my area was the lead-in for the Saturday string of Britcoms. As such, it sent a clear signal that an evening of laughter was about to be had.

Mike T.
New York, NY USA -- Thursday, July 2, 2009 at 18:30 (PDT)

What a coincidence that you should mention the availability of viewing "A Fine Romance" episodes. Earlier today, I treated myself and purchased the entire boxed set of AFR. I shall look forward to watching each episode in chronological order.

On another note, "Happy July 4th" to everyone on the left side of the big pond.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Thursday, July 2, 2009 at 18:30 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, July 2, 2009 at 18:07 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at 14:47 (PDT)

As always, it is encouraging that the producers continue to review your site and even more complimentary of you that they are willing from time to time to forward comments on to the ATGB family.

As I've noted in the past I am in favor of more episodes because I view ATGB as an unique show that touches so many people (especially the middle aged and elderly who are so often over-looked by the entertainment industry). I agree, that a retrospective special with bloopers and other behind the scenes moments would be terrific, however, I also believe that there is more of the story of Jean and Lionel to tell as building off of Larry Lain's eloquent critique of the show: there is more of our own collective stories to tell.

A few disclaimers before I continue: I've never written to a fan site, producers, actors, etc., except ATGB. Quite candidly, I rarely watch broadcast or cable television any more as the content other than news and sports has lost most of its relevance to me and my family. A search of my home would reveal no autographs of "celebrities", no newspaper clippings or photographs of them either, indeed, nothing that would suggest a rabid TV fan that finds it impossible to go on without the latest episodes of a favorite show or series.

And yet, if that search expanded to include my laptop, they'd find one solitary "entertainment" type link to a website called ATGB Central! And the question of why it is in my favorites folder really is more about the "how" of why I believe ATGB has a transcendent quality to it that goes beyond mere "entertainment" and delivers itself as a companion. If you are sad, pop in a DVD and find a laugh. If you are retrospective about lost opportunities, pop in a DVD and find inspiration that life begins anew each and every day. If you are lonely (perhaps because you are the surviving spouse), pop in a DVD and find the best of those you long for to be with again. If you are happy, pop in a DVD and find yourself!

I thought the writing sufficient enough for the reunion specials, indeed as I thought the plot devices clever enough including that of a young man calling on his "Father". The character of Jean leaps to many wrong conclusions over the series and this one was an exclamation mark on that tendency and given that it was a reunion special it was appropriate that it be the most implausible one to date (to everyone but Jean, of course!). My own take is that where specials of any sort error is in changing the tempo (meaning timing). Most reunions error on trying to stretch a tried and true format into a longer show and that is where most problems occur. Better to have had four 28 and half minute episodes than two 45 minute reunion specials.

Certainly, I can't know this definitively, however, it is my strong belief that ATGB has had a greater (and therefore longer and more important) impact on their audience. The Bond movies may thrill (and Judi is very good in them), the cameo roles of Geoffrey are always good to see (and hopefully keeps him fully supplied with fly-casting bait!), however, the ATGB episodes transcends people's lives in ways that really matter: they inspire, they make you laugh, they may even make you cry, however, at the end of the day they always leave you with hope. So please, on behalf of all of the ATGB family, please keep that hope coming and know that it has had and will continue to have meaning!

Christopher Toth
St. Louis, MO USA -- Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at 12:13 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at 8:51 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 12:07 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 11:15 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 11:00 (PDT)

Geoffrey Palmer opens Bledlow gardens By Neil Phillips POPULAR actor Geoffrey Palmer joined guests at the opening of the gardens at Bledlow Manor on Sunday. The "As Time Goes By" star became patron of the Abbeyfield Society, which provides housing with care to older people, after seeing the service offered by the home to two of his aunts and his mother. The afternoon event at the garden was in aid of Abbeyfield's Leonard Pulham Nursing home which looks after 33 elderly people in Halton, Aylesbury. The garden at Bledlow Manor is owned by Lord Carrington and features a mixture of formal and informal gardens as well as a collection of sculpture and statues. Local artists were also painting and selling their work. A large number of Classic cars, including Rolls Royce, were also on display. Suzie Friend, a spokesperson for the Abbeyfield society said: "It was a lovely sunny day with over 400 people coming and there were so many things going on. We are still counting the money we have raised for the society."

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 7:22 (PDT)

The qualities of this love story compels all of us to reward ourselves as many times as possible. I am amazed with the energy and vitality of the ever young Dame Judi. Thank you and your wonderful cast for your wonderful work.

Quentin Allen
Ft. Mitchell, KY USA -- Sunday, June 28, 2009 at 13:08 (PDT)

Marian
Galashiels Scotland -- Saturday, June 27, 2009 at 10:43 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, June 27, 2009 at 9:05 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Incidentally, I took the time to go to the BBFC website and found that they operate on two guiding principles:

(1) that works should be allowed to reach the widest audience that is appropriate for their theme and treatment and (2) that adults should, as far as possible, be free to choose what they see, provided that it remains within the law and is not potentially harmful.

So what's the fuss about Dame Judi? Anyone who would be offended -- in fact, moved to complain -- by the lightweight "foul" language of M (no matter who is playing the role) would be mortified if ever they came face-to-face with our Dame Judi. Clearly I'm talking about more than just asking her to sign an autograph backstage. From every account, Judi enjoys a hearty laugh, a mischievous prank and she speaks her mind without a lot of self-censorship. The lady has been known to drop an expletive or two. Or three.

These days people pay a lot of money to go to the movies and you'd think that they should know what to expect when they fork over $6 to $12 per person to see a movie. When you think of how successful the 007 franchise is, you realize that these few complaints represent nearly no-one. That's why I hate to see so much time given to this piece of fluff issue that every blogger from here to eternity has been leading with for the past week. I find it more interesting that I received at least 30-40 alerts and that's more than the number of complaints the BBFC received in the first place.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Friday, June 25, 2009 at 8:12 (PDT)

I would like to add to the comments Mary and Peggy. I agree with them 100%. I admit I was a wee bit apprehensive about joining a group of 35 women or so -- that I had never met before -- but when you walked through the doors of that hotel it was like meeting "Family". As Peggy said -- one word, look or action and all knew what was meant. My whole world has opened up since joining in discussions on the various DJD sites and to Judi I am most grateful. I cannot thank you and other site owners for all the work you put in to make my day. I wish I had known about Judi when she was more involved in theatre.

Again -- I thank all the "family" who made the London trip sooo special.

Liz
Midlothian Scotland -- Friday, June 25, 2009 at 7:51 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, June 26, 2009 at 3:01 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Visra, AZ USA -- Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 21:02 (PDT)

Here's the link to an interesting article in the Telegraph:

It appears Dame Judi is so revered that the use of 'foul' language by the characters she portrays elicits complaints from her fanbase.

Personally, while I don't care for gratuitous vulgarity, a well-placed curse word doesn't necessarily offend me if it serves to add tension or intensity to the plot.

On another note, Rebecca asked about Lionel and Jean picking bluebells in Episode 3 of the first season. Earlier this week, one of the local PBS stations began showing the first season of ATGB (for the umpteenth time, but I'm not complaining). Episode 3 is scheduled to be broadcast tonight. I shall look forward to watching it, once again. :-)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I have been inundated with alerts for days regarding this issue. Frankly I was hoping it wouldn't come up. I chose to ignore it because it is one of the more ridiculous things I've heard. With all the lunacy in this world that this is even an issue is beyond me.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 19:47 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: It's been a long time since I've seen that episode, but based on where I mentioned it in the episode guide, it appears as though Lionel was referring to a path that they had previously taken in the field near the hotel where they first made love. I'm guessing that they must have, metaphorically speaking, "fooled around" or canoodled on the way to the hotel.

Rebecca Reynolds
Portland, Oregon, USA -- Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 11:57 (PDT)

If you took a poll of the 35 or so of us that went to England in April, probably half had traveled there for the first time and many had traveled alone. For some it was a huge step and life changing. This giant leap was a result of Dame Judi and our blind faith that we would become friends and have fun because "like people, attract like people".

I have come to believe that the people I meet online because of ATGB and Judi are just like me. The magic that is Judi Dench has pulled us all in and through this wonderful site (thank you Bonnie) and others, we are able to chat about the show and people we all admire and respect very much. And incredibly, we don't have to explain anything -- actors, plot lines, characters -- the background is already there. The trip to England proved my point. Laughter was a constant. The cause could be as simple as a voice inflection when you mentioned "custard tarts!", and you wouldn't believe the critique that took place after we saw "A Little Night Music". How the discussion of a simple line like "So . . ?" could get so animated was absolutely amazing and hysterically funny.

To steal a bit from MasterCard: Airplane tickets to London: 1200 Dollars. Hotel accommodations: 78 Pounds. Taxi ride to the theatre: Ten Pounds. Theatre tickets: 32 1/2 Pounds. Seeing Judi Dench and being part of "we few, we happy few, we band of sisters" . . . . priceless! Thanks to everyone. Let's do it again soon.

Peggy
Reynoldsburg, OH USA -- Tuesday, June 24, 2009 at 15:59 (PDT)

"I love the pajamas Jean wears in the series. Any idea what kind or where they got them for her?"

Jennifer, I think it's highly likely that someone like Jean would shop here: http://www.thewhitecompany.com/category.aspx?ID=1000820.

It's a *beautiful* shop that only sells white or neutral linens and nightwear - always cotton or other natural fibres. They are scrummy and classy!

Also M&S are often good for that sort of thing - Marks & Spencer (affectionately known here in England as Marksies or Marks & Sparks!) I have a pair of lovely 'broderie anglaise' pyjamas almost identical to Jean's from there. You've probably noticed from the carrier bags that Jean & Lionel often do their food shopping at Marks & Spencer - it's also likely she'd do some of her clothes shopping there too.

Laura Ashley often have nightwear that Jean would wear, but their current range doesn't reflect that...

Happy Hunting :o)

Helen
Tenterden, England -- Friday, June 19, 2009 at 12:04 (PDT)

Looking at it made me feel I was having Christmas in June.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thank you, Marian. Here's another photo of Judi that was taken on the same day. It, too, was found at the contactmusic.com website. Judi's horse, Smokey Oakey, finished in last place.

Marian
Galashiels, Selkirkshire, Scotland -- Thursday, June 18, 2009 at 4:03 (PDT)

We've been lucky enough to have the chance to spend a lot of time in London because of my job, and have spent all or part of several delightful days visiting ATGB shooting sites, most of which are easy enough to find just with a pleasant stroll around the general Holland Park area. And when we're over there in 2010, we'll probably go back at least to eat again at Julie's Restaurant (which has been visible in several episodes, most prominently in the first part of the Reunion special) which is lovely and has wonderful food. Just being in the neighborhood brings us a smile. And when all is said and done, that's why we watch the show: It always brings us a smile -- partly because of what it is ... and partly because of who WE are.

Larry Lain
Dayton, OH USA -- Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at 10:12 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: As most of you know, I won't post the address of the location where the Hardcastles live and I think the reasons are fairly obvious reasons. As for wrought iron fenches, they are all over the place. Curiously enough, this is probably the most-asked question I get. Once again, I'm going to ask those of you who are interested to look elsewhere for the answer.

john roy
acushnet, ma USA -- Monday, June 15, 2009 at 6:04 (PDT)

Liz
Midlothian Scotland -- Sunday, June 14, 2009 at 12:52 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, June 13, 2009 at 11:44 (PDT)

And all of that led to ----- my first ever overseas trip to England --- to see DJD in Madame deSade and to see Stratford and Bath, etc. ---- and most of all --- to meet IN PERSON other women that feel the same as I do about DJD's work --- so now I have friends all over the United States, UK and Scotland ---- "we few, we happy few, we band of sisters!"

So, I can DEFINITELY say that my life has been changed by ATGB!

Viva la Dame!

Mary Bentley
Cullman, Alabama USA -- Thursday, June 11, 2009 at 7:52 (PDT)

	These photos were taken yesterday night in the Wiltshire village of Lacock in England during the filming of Cranford. How're these for pictures that feature the ladies in their bonnets? It appears as though Imelda is wearing a conestoga wagon on her head while Judi seems to have acquired the wardrobe of Friar Tuck.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, June 11, 2009 at 7:31 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at 12:26 (PDT)

This show has become a very special part of our lives. We always watch it together. When we do, "the world goes away" and it's just us and the Hardcastles. All the stress and worries of the day seem to melt away and we can just sit back, relax and enjoy the show. And it reminds us of how lucky we are to have each other and to feel the same love that is at the very foundation of this delightful and magical show. If any of the cast and crew do read these comments, I would like to thank you personally for having created something so wonderful which has brought a little sunshine into the lives of so many ...

NOTE FROM BONNIE: What a lovely letter! I hope that some people in the cast and/or crew were able to read it and appreciate the difference this show has made and the part they played in it. I know it has changed my life and, judging from the personal emails I have received over the past ten years I can tell you that your reaction is pretty much universal.

Dan Parsons
Santa Clara, CA USA -- Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at 9:40 (PDT)

I saw another picture of Judi on the Cranford set doing a crossword puzzle but, frankly, I don't want to see any more pictures of her in that bonnet -- at least not until the program airs. I found a couple of other pictures, though, and I much prefer them.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at 8:03 (PDT)

Judi's back on the set of the sequel to Cranford

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at 7:25 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Monday, June 8, 2009 at 15:31 (PDT)

Those of us truly addicted to the series don't expect a new reunion special with Grandkids driving Lionel insane -- and we have the series on DVD to watch, so we don't care what PBS airs. We're just glad we knew the Hardcastles and their family & friends -- it's as if they were close friends that moved away. Got to get back in my bed -- they're bringing my evening medication -- there's only twelve of us left in the ward now -- I think they're going to show us Season 7, Episode 1 this evening ... don't they know they'll never get us rehabilitated this way -- especially with Lionel and the ear wax at the end?

Joe in Indiana
USA -- Monday, June 8, 2009 at 15:04 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Monday, June 8, 2009 at 10:55 (PDT)

Me think that Geoffrey Palmer refuses to do another reunion show because the writing is not what it once was....

John Roy
Acushnet, MA, USA -- Monday, June 8, 2009 at 9:31 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH, USA -- Sunday, June 7, 2009 at 15:57 (PDT)

As much as we would all like to see more of the Hardcastles we have to accept the realization that Larbey's early writings cannot be replicated. I have accepted the fact that this is it, and I shall continue to watch all the episodes over & over and let my imagination take me beyond.

Thanks for your thoughts, Joan.

Evelyn Eisenberg
San Diego CA, USA -- Sunday, June 7, 2009 at 14:12 (PDT)

Something did strike me. Please don't bring out the tar and feathers just yet, but I have to say, after watching the reunion again, I think if that would have been my first experience with ATGB, I would never have watched another episode. Judi's character of Jean is sometimes so strident and other times just goofy that I would have wondered what all the talk of the warm and charming series this is was all about. And Steven wanting to become a celebrity was really stretching for something preposterous to add to the mix. And did you ever wonder why there was no mention of the aid that Lionel gave to Patrick's family in the book? If it had been described there, then Jean would have known about it.

Perhaps it's just as well there will be no more reunions. I hesitate to say this, but I think the writer had finally run out of steam. However, a program bringing the cast back together to chat and reminisce would be a lovely idea. I do wish that could happen.

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, June 7, 2009 at 12:08 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ, USA -- Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 20:25 (PDT)

Judging by the number of people who have mentioned it to me this morning, this item -- which I first talked about in March, bears repeating: If you are someone, like me, who loves Waiting for God, you'll be happy to know that the fourth ... DVD of the series will be released in June. I hope that if you want it, you'll remember to buy it through this link or from the Atgbcentral Amazon store. At the time I thought it was the final DVD, but that one has not been released or announced. Even though the ship date is shown as June 9th, the first copies have already been shipped.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 15:20 (PDT)

Love your website!

I was in the group that traveled in April to see Dame Judi's live performance in Madame de Sade. It was my first trip abroad, and my first time to see DJD on stage. I just wanted to say that I was blown away. Dame Judi's performance was, as I expected --- fantastic! The performances of all the actors, in fact, were wonderful. Rosamund Pike was breathtakingly beautiful, and Frances Barber the consumate performer!

Dame Judi is everything I thought she would be AND MORE! She was so very gracious to everyone that assembled at the stage door. She took so much time with everyone, was so pleasant and cordial, even though I know she was exhausted after the performance.

Another thing that did NOT surprise me in the least was the calibre of the fans who traveled to see her. I met so many wonderful fans --- who I now consider my friends! We had a marvelous time --- it was so nice to be with people who were of like minds! What a fantastic group and such a good time had by all. I will NEVER forget it. It was the trip of a lifetime. I have wonderful memories that I will treasure --- and friendships made that I will cherish forever.

Dame Judi signed many items for me -- photos, programs, books -- and I now have a photo of ME with DJD! There is NOTHING LIKE A DAME!

Mary Bentley
Cullman, Alabama USA -- Tuesday, June 2, 2009 at 13:36 (PDT)

Houston has not experienced as big a downturn as most of the country. In fact, our PBS station (America's first public television station) had an increase of about 5% from individual contributions in 2008. Proceeds from other sources also increased and payments to employees decreased due to a 2007 deduction in force.

Their Programming Director has stated, "We depend on viewer calls to let us know what they like and don't like." Although he qualified that statement by saying not all decisions are based on viewers comments. He added that "The calls do generate staff discussion at least."

Houston area Britcom devotees need to call or email KHUT. I do own the series, but sometimes like to see it one episode at a time.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Then I'd join you in encouraging anyone who wants to see the program on the air again to contact the station and tell them how they would like the money to be distributed. The stations always credit "viewers like you" with their programming choices, but it is, of course, required that the viewers communicate these choices to the stations. I'm surprised, given this particular station made a profit at both the individual and corporate levels that "too expensive" was used as an excuse.

As for your desire to see one program at a time, I should think it would be pretty easy for you to make that happen if you have access to all of them. You can do all sorts of things: if you want it to be a regular part of your viewing, just pick a convenient time slot and play them one at a time on a regular basis -- in order and you'll have more than a year's worth of entertainment. Or just throw a pair of dice, first to select the season (eleven could be season 1 and 10 could be the reunion) and second, to select the episode. Surprise yourself.

Evalynn Christiansen
Houston, TX USA -- Monday, June 1, 2009 at 14:25 (PDT)

Try this link. Click on women pjs: there is a page with 188 pajamas. You might find some that are similar to the ones Jusi wears in ATGB. Good luck.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ, USA -- Monday, June 1, 2009 at 12:11 (PDT)

Jennifer Bragg
WV, USA -- Monday, June 1, 2009 at 11:15 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, June 1, 2009 at 11:03 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, it is sad, but given the state of the economy and the fact that the Public Broadcasting Systems are supported by the public it is understandable. If people want to see Britcoms without commercials they need to either support their local PBS stations or buy a copy of the series.

Evalynn Christiansen
Houston, TX USA -- Monday, June 1, 2009 at 7:28 (PDT)

And one last thing to add to the mix:

At least that's what it says at PBS. I guess we'll see what happens when it comes on, but I probably wouldn't expect to see Geoffrey this season.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, May 31, 2009 at 16:44 (PDT)

Thanks for the compliment, Margaret. I've taken a screen clip of the credits for Charles Palmer as a director. As far as I can tell, the two of them have never worked together. Geoffrey was in a Dr. Who episode in 2007 , but it was not the one that Charles directed and Judi Dench narrated the audiobook of Lark Rise to Candleford. That seems to be as close as they have come to crossing paths.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 14:53 (PDT)

---

To add to the confusion, while I was at IMDB I checked on David Suchet's career as Poirot. There are, apparently 12 seasons of the program, spanning the years 1989 through 2009 (and one might guess at least 2010 because there is only one episode listed in Series 12, that being Murder on the Orient Express show with a debut date of December 2009. The shows Mrs. McGinty's Dead and Cat Among the Pigeons are shown as being the first two episodes in season 11, shown previously on September 1 and September 8 in 2008. I did not see a listing for The Clocks, which doesn't seem strange since it apparently has is still filming. So much for clarity.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 14:53 (PDT)

As always, thanks for your untiring efforts and willingness to keep us informed of all things related to Judi Dench, Geoffrey Palmer and all others/things associated with As Time Goes By. I join countless others in unashamedly admitting to checking your website daily for a 'fix' on my favorite Britcom.

With regard to the upcoming Poirot episodes, to be broadcast June 21 and 28...according to the "KET (Kentucky Educational Television) Visions" magazine which recently arrived in my mailbox, the June 21 episode is titled "Cat Among the Pigeons"; the June 28 episode is titled "Mrs. McGinty's Dead". I don't expect we'll see "The Clocks" (with Geoffrey Palmer) until later in the season. Does anyone know if this is the first time Geoffrey has been directed by his son, or have they worked together previously?

Best wishes to all for a great summer!

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 14:45 (PDT)

It will be the final production in the Donmar Warehouse's year-long residency at Wyndham's Theatre. Directed by Michael Grandage, the sold-out production will officially open June 3 and play through Aug. 22.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, May 29, 2009 at 10:57 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, May 29, 2009 at 8:34 (PDT)

Pauline
UK -- Thursday, May 28, 2009 at 16:29 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Thursday, May 28, 2009 at 10:09 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks for the comment, Rebecca. As you may know, the actors who played Rocky and Madge (Frank Middlemass and Joan Sims) have both died. The rest of the cast has pretty much scattered and there is little hope for a reprise of the series. I just wanted to let you know that I have nothing to do with the show other than as a fan and, although many of those who frequent the website have expressed the desire to see at least a retrospective and/or outtakes from the show, there is no evidence that such a thing will come to pass. I will point out though, that the producers still read this comment section (as you can see from the rather out-dated letter at the top of the page) and they are at least aware of what the fans want. I have heard from them this year and can confirm that they still monitor the page, but I have no new information to keep your hopes alive.

Rebecca Commander
Luverne, AL USA -- Thursday, May 28, 2009 at 9:51 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, May 28, 2009 at 9:43 (PDT)

On another note I happened to watch back to back episodes a few weeks back in which Rocky gets married (season #3) & on another station Judy gets married (season #9). The odd thing is that in both episodes the best man manages to break his leg ... and Lionel insists on wanting to tell his parrot joke. In the season #3 episode Rocky tells Lionel that the joke is lousy, but in season #9 Rocky tells Lionel that he loved the joke!

Seems to me that the same idea got recycled during the last season!

John Roy
Acushnet, MA USA -- Thursday, May 28, 2009 at 7:31 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: And when you do, don't forget about the ATGBCENTRAL AMAZON store(s) all of which are prominently linked at the top of this page. I know money for luxuries doesn't come easy these days, but at Amazon you always have the option of buying yourself a used set. Luckily I have the whole series on my hard drive so I can see it any time I want to.

It's a little too early to buy it because it just starts filming next week, but it's certainly good news that the second part of Cranford will be ready for broadcast this Christmas. And that, too, will be featured (quite likely for Christmas gift-giving). As always, I must thank those of you who support the site thru purchases at the Amazon Stores.

Joan in PA
USA -- Thursday, May 28, 2009 at 4:53 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, May 27, 2009 at 19:18 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Wednesday, May 27, 2009 at 14:46 (PDT)

Wonderful news: it appears as though her health has improved and she's been given the "all-clear".

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 20:35 (PDT)

Evelyn
San Diego, CA USA -- Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 13:59 (PDT)

The description reads: Sam Mendes, director of the 1990 NT production of Edward Bond's The Sea, and Judi Dench who plays Louise Rafi discuss the production and their work with Genista McIntosh. 13 January 1991, Olivier Theatre

There is also a note which says that this is missing the beginning. You can go to the National Theatre Archives for additional resources.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, May 15, 2009 at 9:04 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: There sure was, Sharon. Sorry, I missed her in that crowd.

Sharon Breden
San Jose, CA USA -- Thursday, May 14, 2009 at 8:53 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, May 14, 2009 at 8:53 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks Beth. If you haven't seen it, you can watch it on YouTube.

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at 16:49 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at 8:22 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Friday, May 8, 2009 at 9:32 (PDT)

Her appearance at the Theatre Royal in Jewry Street on Sunday, July 19, will be the final curtain for the 10-day programme.

She will be in conversation with the festival's artistic director, John Miller. He has produced a book on her career, called Scenes From My Life, which will be amongst the subjects discussed. For more information, click the link.

One last reminder: in a couple of hours you will be able to Listen to all five Ladies of Letters Crunch Credit on Radio 4. They are available individually and as part of the Women's Hour. Since each one is available for only 7 days after broadcast, they will begin to drop off one by one on Monday, after which they will not be available again for a long, long time. Don't say I didn't alert you to this.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, May 8, 2009 at 8:46 (PDT)

Thank you, Bonnie.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Friday, May 8, 2009 at 6:53 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, May 7, 2009 at 17:23 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, May 5, 2009 at 16:40 (PDT)

If you missed Spencer's response to Dame Judi's criticism, read below where I added the update.

And if you missed Ladies of Letters this morning you can catch up here. (The episodes usually run for the last 15 minutes of the Woman's Hour show and will air all this week.)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, May 4, 2009 at 14:01 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Sunday, May 3, 2009 at 22:29 (PDT)

And, an update: Spencer's response.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, May 3, 2009 at 20:44 (PDT)

Just returned from a wonderful weekend in London seeing Judi in Madam de Sade which I enjoyed Judi looks well but is still limping slightly. Thought you might like a few photos. The 1st photo of Judi with her bouquet was taken by John Ditsworth from Arizona.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks for sending the pictures, Marian.. If you click here you will see the other two photos.

Marian
Galashiels Scotland -- Friday, May 1 2009 at 2:16 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 17:57 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 11:53 (PDT)

I just read Geoffrey's article about Venice and it doesn't seem like something he would do.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 9:59 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I have a very rapidly fading memory, so I went to the blue box above the comments on this page and did a search for "Dirty Duck" on atgbcentral.com. I unearthed several articles about the Dirty Duck, as well as a picture and was able to piece together the story from the references that appeared. Interestingly enough, Marla wrote a comment on April 17, 2006 (which you can find in the archives) saying that she had seen the same program and that Judi had written something on the table, but she couldn't make out the words. Marla asked that anyone who had more information please respond. Better late than never. Maybe someday we'll find out who painted the blue vase picture in the hallway. (If you are interested enough to follow in my footsteps by looking up the references in the blue box, please remember to click a listing in the "Ads by Google" box at the top of the page.)

Ann
Mendon, Michigan USA -- Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 8:05 (PDT)

About the least favourite episodes of ATGB, I tend to agree with Marla: even the weakest episodes have at least some scenes in them that make up for the rest. For instance, in the Duncan episode, I think the scene at the office where Jean asks for the help of the girls to convince Lionel to invite them to a drink on the following Saturday: I found it hilarious!

It is always a pleasure to read the comments and news from all of you!

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 19:15 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 15:52 (PDT)

I have a question. I have found many pictures of the places where the outside scenes were filmed, but the only picture taken on one of the sets that I have found is the signed picture of the cast in the bar where the "plain woman" came down the stairs. (I think that is where they are) Are there any pictures of the sets we know so well? ( the kitchen, the living room/office, etc) Also since the sets changed somewhat over the years it would be fun to compare them.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: It goes without saying (or does it?) that I have hundreds of pictures of the sets in the episode guide for every season and episode -- the earlier ones are not nearly as clear or large as the later ones, but iff you want to see items in the kitchen over the years, you can see them. If you want to see the various types of headboards on the bed, you can see them. If you want to see the dining room over the years, or the hallway decorations, you can see them all. These pictures of the group that went to see the last tapings were taken on the set. I'm not sure whether or not there were photos allowed to be taken (by the attendees) at the tapings, but someone might have taken some. I don't remember seeing any.

Carolyn
Peoria, Illinois USA -- Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 8:58 (PDT)

I've been thinking about my least favorite shows and I realized that it doesn't really matter what show happens to be on when I am watching an episode because there is always something in each one that I find memorable. Often I don't remember what else the episode was about, but I do remember Jean's not turning on the vacuum, or imitating a ringing telephone. I'd have to say that, in general, I prefer the shows that are done in the home at Holland Park, although primarily because of Mrs Bale I enjoy some of the interactions at the country house. I'm not a fan of location shows that are done in hospitals, department/ thrift stores, flea markets, bars and restaurants.

Also thought that I would mention, since nothing is really going on on the ATGB front, that next week BBC will unveil a new episode in the Ladies of Letters series starring Prunella Scales (Sybil Fawlty) and Patricia Routledge (Hyacinth Bucket): Ladies of Letters Crunch Credit. Offhand, I'd say this is the 10th series and all of them have been wonderful. If you are fans of British Comedy these shows are a must. I believe all of them have been aired on Radio 4 in 15 minute segments so they are just over an hour in length. They are laugh-out-loud funny and all of them are available as audiobooks at all of the Amazon stores here at my site. They are perfect audiobooks for long car trips. For the first time this year the series has been rewritten for television and those ten episodes just completed running. The television version stars Maureen Lipman and Anne Reid and it clearly was difficult to try to translate into another medium, although they did an admirable job. The wit is in the word in this series and the radio shows are really perfect because of the nature of the show.

And speaking of British Comedy, Sunday at the Baftas the 2009 Fellowship Award, which was given to Judi a few years ago, was given to Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders. If you are fans, be sure to click the link to the YouTube recording of the presentation (by Helen Mirren) of this award. Clearly the award was an enormously popular choice. During the film it was mentioned that they did very funny version of Mamma Mia especially for Comic Relief. Again, if you are fans, also check out that video, which is shown in its entirety in two parts.

And finally, don't forget to click on the Google links if you do a search.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 7:08 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 7:02 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Monday, April 27, 2009 at 17:56 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Monday, April 27, 2009 at 11:34 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Just in case this link is removed, as often happens, I'll mention that is says the event will be held at Theatre Royal, Winchester on Sunday, 19 July 2009, 7:30 PM. You can buy the tickets at the box office. There is also a note which says "If you are unable to attend an event. we can often reserve signed copies." I don't know if that means that those of us who live elsewhere and don't intend to go to the presentation can get a signed copy or those who have tickets, but cannot attend can get one. They follow that statement by advising people to come early for the signing. You can get the phone number and additional details by clicking the link.

Connie
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Monday, April 20, 2009 at 8:34 (PDT)

We're not alone, so many of our friends feel the same way. When I make my annual donation to the local PBS, I always say it's on condition that they keep on running ATGB!

Let's make sure that PBS knows that, every year!

Thanks for creating this wonderful website where we can real all about our favorite actors and show,

Christine O'Keefe
Redding, CT USA -- Sunday, April 19, 2009 at 15:07 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, April 16, 2009 at 6:36 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 8:02 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, April 12, 2009 at 3:46 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Sunday, April 12, 2009 at 12:33 (PDT)

Last night between ATGB and Summer Wine an announcement was made on our local PBS station that $7000 had been raised (the cost of one Britcom to run for one year). At this time ATGB is the first choice. A close second is Summer Wine. I hope it continues also. I did read that Frank Thornton and Peter Sallis (now both near 90) will only do indoor scenes this year).

Last night ATGB was the Series 8 episode when Penny and Stephen announce they will retire to Spain. When Penny is at the door and throws her scarf over her sholder I will always be seeing the blooper when she gets it caught in her clothing and she and Judi break up with laughter.

I,like many more people, hope there will be some future plans for more bloopers and discussion with the actors, director, writer,and the rest of the crew.

I will look forward to hearing from the people who go to London to see Judi this month.

Best Wishes for a Happy Easter to all.

Carolyn
Peoria, IL USA -- Sunday, April 12, 2009 at 10:54 (PDT)

Remember that many of the BBCs Radio Shows are available for a week after the broadcast and this Aled Jones interview is no exception. You can hear repeats of Radio 2's latest shows by clicking on the link and choosing your selection.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, April 10, 2009 at 11:10 (PDT)

I enjoyed very much the comments Larry Olson made about Madame de Sade. Without having seen it, but having read the play and from the various reviews I read, I had reached the same conclusion: wonderful production, beautiful scenes and costumes, great acting and Judi having come up to the challenge of a subject so different from any she has ever tackled.

Happy Passover/Easter to all of you.

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Sunday, April 4, 2009 at 12:09 (PDT)

My local PBS TV station has just finished their pledge drive. They did not meet their goal and are still requesting donations. The program manager has requested viewers write in and state their two favorite Britcoms (and hopefully with a check enclosed). I will request ATGB as my number one choice. It seems she will order the ones most requested.

Has anyone else had this experience of the pledge drive going on after it has closed and have any other stations stated that the ones ordered will depend on what is requested?

Here in the Las Vegas area there was a campaign by our local station to select the program from a missing slot in the Saturday Night line-up when the contract ended for the running of a particular show. There were several choices available, including Vicar of Dibley (for which I voted). It won and ran for one season. I don't remember whether or not the pledge week had ended or if it was part of the pledge week agenda. Right now we have a wonderful night of programming featuring Keeping Up Appearances, In the Manor Born, ATGB and Fawlty Towers, all of which I've seen many times over.

Carolyn
Peoria,Illinois USA -- Friday, April 3, 2009 at 9:16 (PDT)

Larry Olson
USA -- Thursday, April 2, 2009 at 6:42 (PDT)

I hope she is not overexerting her ankle, it might prolong its recovery.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 19:42 (PDT)

The next two scans were merged by me into one larger photo of the interview between director Michael Grandage and Dame Judi. If you're anything like me, you won't be able to read it because the type is quite small. So just click here to see the words. Also, if you are anything like me, you might wonder what a tannoy is. I have just learned that it it a loudspeaker. Something new every day....

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 17:42 (PDT)

I have seen Judi many times on stage and at fund raisers,etc. I was among those who swore I would enjoy her reading the proverbial phone book. However, I discovered that I like her too much to truly enjoy her in something that I just knew was not going to be a real success either personally or for the play as a whole.

Connie
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 1:24 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, March 25, 2009 at 8:29 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, March 26, 2009 at 19:00 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, March 26, 2009 at 10:22 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, March 25, 2009 at 7:11 (PDT)

The information that she will return tonight was at What's on Stage?

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 12:18 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 8:18 (PDT)

Here's the link for a favorable review of "Madame de Sade"

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Monday, March 23, 2009 at 15:09 (PDT)

I have just discovered your guestbook for Judi Dench and ATGB. I love all the information. Thanks so much.

Carolyn
Peoria,Illinois USA -- Sunday, March 22, 2009 at 19:06 (PDT)

Thank you for posting the information about release of the DVD of Quantum of Solace. I had a feeling it should be coming out soon but had no idea when as I had not seen anything about it anywhere.

Beth Lane
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 16:38 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 14:09 (PDT)

Judi had slipped at home at home at the beginning of February and had to go to hospital, I believe she missed 1 day of rehearsal but was back the following day. We all wish her a speedy recovery and best wishes.

Marian
Galashiels, Selkirkshire, Scotland -- Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 10:13 (PDT)

Mary
Baton Rouge, LA USA -- Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 9:58 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 8:10 (PDT)

In the meantime I have found many, many stories on the subject now, but nothing that really offered any new information, so I decided not to post them. If you want to read them, just do a search on "dench de Sade ankle" and they'll all pop up in Google.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, March 20, 2009 at 1:25 (PDT)

David Benedict's Variety review gives us a different take:

Now this is what I call a review!
It's exactly as I thought.
The play is not some frivolous, fluffy musical --- it's a artistic study in symbolism and depth. It asks the audience to think, reflect, etc.
I'm there, baby.
Bravo, David Benedict.

Dame Judi is know for wanting to stretch herself into areas she has not previously explored. I admire her for stepping out of her comfort zone with her work.

I, for one, will be in the audience on April 24th and 25th fully expecting to be in awe of the set, the costumes, the wigs, the lighting --- and awed by the presence of the greatest theatrical actress alive today!

Mary Bentley
Birmingham, Alabama USA -- Friday, March 20, 2009 at 12:31 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Joan, once again you read my mind. Oh, and I was just about to post a message from Marisetta, which said EXACTLY the same thing. I guess I'd better post it before these begin to mount up.

Joan in PA
USA -- Friday, March 20, 2009 at 12:03 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, March 20, 2009 at 11:06 (PDT)

I have read all of the reviews available so far, and just want to say that I am too much of a fan to be daunted by bad press. I have three tickets for different nights during the last ten days of the show, and I look forward to seeing how Dame Judi may alter her performance from one evening to the other. She always says this is one of the advantages of acting on stage.

We have known all along that the subject matter is distasteful, and if the speeches are long and dreary, there is still the bright side of being in the same room as one of the greatest actors of our time.

Rosemary
Nevis, W.I. -- Friday, March 20, 2009 at 10:43 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Friday, March 20, 2009 at 7:28 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You read my mind.

Joan in PA
USA -- Thursday, March 19, 2009 at 14:03 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, March 19, 2009 at 14:01 (PDT)

One more review at the Telegraph, by Charles Spencer, which states: "The kindest thing one can say about this cruelly punishing play is that it's lovely when it stops." See more reviews and another summary at The Stage, another from the Guardian (in which Mark Espiner says "it turns out to be a bit of a damp squib" and What's on Stage and Theatermania. There will be another BBC radio review on Front Row (Radio 4) tonight but, for some reason, you will NOT be able to hear it on listen again. There's also a review for the Evening Standard by Nicholas DeJongh at This is London. It shows this picture of the cast celebrating at the after-party. I'm not sure what it is that they are celebrating, but it is likely that the reviews weren't out yet.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, March 19, 2009 at 9:25 (PDT)

Changing the subject, at least momentarily, here's the latest from YouTube featuring Geoffrey Palmer in the Comic Relief 2009 sketch "RAF Pilots".

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, March 19, 2009 at 6:20 (PDT)

Here's a link to a a review of Madame de Sade. I also listened to the Radio 3 review that I mentioned yesterday -- it is available on listen now during this week at that site -- and it received a terrible review (which lasted 7 minutes towards the 45 minute mark of that program). Michael Billington's review is at The Guardian (UK) and here's another review (along with this picture) from The Independent. And here is Benedict Nightingale's column from The Times Online. and you can see lots more pictures at Rex Features.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at 13:23 (PDT)

Larry Lain
Dayton, OH USA -- Monday, March 16, 2009 at 11:38 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 6:30 (PDT)

I have watched all the episodes of William and Mary a romantic comedy drama ( three six-part series) and it is well worth watching. Martin Clunes plays an undertaker and Julie Graham a midwife. (note for Karen)

Lyn
Bournemouth UK -- Monday, March 16, 2009 at 14:01 (PDT)

Thanks, Liz, for sharing your opinion.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I guess today was the first day of previews and I read a blog which said it was a 90 minute show without intermission. The person who blogged said very little other than the costumes were "stunning" and "the play left something to be desired. Not because it wasn't well written but because it was hard to understand Madame de Sade's motivations." I'm sure once the play opens there will be many reviews on the internet and I'll keep an eye out to either link or post the reviews.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, March 13, 2009 at 3:18 (PDT)

Hope you are now painter free and enjoying your new look home Just to say that there is a square with a cross on it in the middle of the Madam de Sade article which I assume should be the photo I sent of Judi in rehearsal. No matter what I do I cannot get the picture to come can you fix it?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks Marian. I am only painter-free in the sense that those guys don't work over the weekend. Come Monday it is another case of having to entertain my dog for 8 hours -- she cannot be trusted around people on ladders -- and keeping out of their way. I think they'll probably be done around Wednesday. In the meantime the change in the house is astounding and worth every cent. Sorry to miss the trip to London, but I guess I'll just have to read about it.

I started to write that I could see the picture just fine on my mac computers (it will be a while before I can even work my way into the rooms with the PC computers) and my telephone, but I saw that I actually couldn't see it on the phone. So I tried a couple of things that did allow me to see it on the phone and I hope you can see it now too. I apologize if others were unable to see it as well. Just in case, though -- you should be able to see it at the Donmar web site.

Marian
Galashiels, Selkirkshire, Scotland -- Saturday, March 13, 2009 at 12:01 a.m. (PDT)

In answer to Marisetta's question - I have read the Madame book. It is quite a dark book but interesting reading. It will make seeing the play all the easier to understand. Also to Karen's question on the series "William & Mary" - I watched that and enjoyed it very much. Martin Clunes is such a versitile actor.

Liz xx
Midlothian, Scotland - Saturday, March 13, 2009 at 10:21 (PDT)

Probably not Jean and Lionel's house.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You are correct about the previous discussion, Joan, but you will never find the exact location of the house that was used for shooting by scouring my website. I will not post that address out of respect to those who are currently living there. You cannot imagine how many times a week -- all these years later -- I get asked for this information. It is the most-asked question. And, frankly, I am not surprised by the selling price of that house.

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, March 13, 2009 at 6:52 (PDT)

Here is another photograph I found of Judi in rehearsal for "Madam de Sade"

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thank you again, Marian. I posted it along with the article and the other picture (below) that you found at the Telegraph. I am back at my own computer at the moment. I have had painters here for the past 2 weeks and the computer has been face down on my desk for much of that time, so I've been trying to adjust to the laptop, which doesn't have a comments folder. The ones that are addressed to the proper place do get to me eventually. I hope this explains some of the odd occurrences during that time, such as strange misspellings and delayed postings (like yours, which you sent well before the ones I posted earlier). I'm hoping most of my electonics will be plugged in and back to normal by the weekend. Coincidentally, I cancelled my trip to see Madame de Sade because I thought the prices of airfare and lodging were larcenous and, instead, decided to have my whole house painted and two bathrooms remodeled.

Marian
Galashiels, Selkirkshire, Scotland -- Thursday, March 12, 2009 at 7 a.m. (PDT)

Has anyone read Madame de Sade? I am curious to hear the comments!

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, March 12, 2009 at 12:24 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks a lot for the update, Karen. I think it might have been wishful thinking on my part. When I checked this morning, I noticed it didn't say it was the final disk, but I didn't take the time to double check, which I should have done. I already have all of them on tape and should have known better. The last episode was called Double Wedding and it was at the end of Season 5.

Karen
Bremerton WA USA -- Thursday, March 12, 2009 at 11:07 (PDT)

If you are someone, like me, who loves Waiting for God, you'll be happy to know that the fourth (and final) DVD of the series will be released in June and you can pre-order it in the U.S. by clicking on the link (or searching at the Atgbcentral Store links).

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, March 12, 2009 at 6:10 (PDT)

Next Friday, a little-known Japanese play, Madame de Sade, will have its West End debut at the Donmar Warehouse, this year in residency at Wyndham's Theatre. It should be a night to remember. The play's subject is the infamous Marquis de Sade; the play's author, Yukio Mishima, was a celebrated Japanese writer and masochist who committed hara-kiri in 1970, five years after Madame de Sade was first performed. Mishima's death was as plotted as anything he achieved in his brief and busy lifetime: self disembowelment with an ancient samurai dagger followed by decapitation by a friend. As it happened, his suicide was so botched (his head, rather than being removed in one clean sweep, was slowly hacked from his neck) that instead of symbolising the warrior spirit of ancient Japanese culture, it became the object of tabloid mockery.

With their shared interests in sex, pain, and the beauty of death, the post-war Japanese imperialist and the so-called "father" of the French Revolution make ideal bedfellows. De Sade does not, however, appear in Mishima's play, which spans a period of 18 years over three acts. Instead his character is explored through the drawing-room conversation, or rather what Mishima called the ''collisions of ideas'', between six cultivated women in the marquis's inner circle. They include his loyal wife, Renee, Madame de Sade (played by Rosamund Pike); her deceitful sister, Anne (Fiona Button), who has also been de Sade's lover; and her disapproving mother, Madame de Montreuil (Judi Dench). Three further figures, played by Frances Barber, Deborah Findlay, and Jenny Galloway, add their own opinions to the play's polite conversation about perversity.

Unless you caught Ingmar Bergman's production in 1995, described by one reviewer on The New York Times as displaying ''such spellbinding, gimcrack-free order that it serves to refresh the senses'', it is unlikely that you will have seen Madame de Sade before. Bergman's achievement was to turn a Japanese drama of ideas about an 18th-century Frenchman, acted in Swedish and presented in New York with the English translation (by Donald Keene) heard via earphones, into an elegant and clearly defined performance. It sounds as if Michael Grandage, the director of the Donmar production, will be producing something equally striking, if less complicated. "What could be more theatrically exciting," Grandage says, "than staging a huge debate about good and evil? Madame de Sade is the perfect centrepiece to everything we are trying to do at the Donmar." Grandage is referring to the Donmar's policy of encouraging a new theatre-going audience by putting on rarely performed plays at affordable prices (seats begin at 10 pounds and peak at 32.50 pounds).

On some levels Madame de Sade is high 18th-century porn," Grandage continues, "contained in a genuinely thrilling narrative. The audience will not have seen anything like this before: it will be like going to a new play. No one knows what to expect or what comes next, or how they will actually respond to a figure like the Marquis de Sade."

Mishima's inspiration for Madame de Sade was less the charismatic character of the marquis himself than the masochism of his wife, Renee. If de Sade is a "monster of immorality", Renee reasons, then "I must be a monster of devotion". Her devotion took on a curious twist in 1790, when, having remained loyal to her husband for 18 years of his imprisonment, she promptly left him as soon as he was released. In the play's electrifying final scene, Renee praises her husband's creation of ''an impenetrable cathedral of vice'' and claims that with his steadfast devotion to the cause of Eros he has built himself ''a back staircase to Heaven''. But while she applauds his ideals, she is appalled by the man.

The devoted wife is one of the many parallels Madame de Sade draws between modern Japanese society and pre-Revolutionary France (Mishima's spouse, Yoko Sugiyama, whom he married to please his mother, was also a monster of devotion). Another striking parallel between the two cultures is the relationship between the formality and reticence of Japanese manners and the dainty exchanges of the European Enlightenment salon. ''What we are dealing with here is very exciting,'' Grandage explains. ''A Japanese writer uses another time, another completely different culture, to explore his experiences from his own time and culture. And to have this drama staged in a West End theatre rather than in an art-house is unique.''

The drama of Madame de Sade is shaped not through action but through what Mishima called the ''confrontation between two contradictory ideas''. Offstage his life was equally full of contradictory ideas, although his biographers suggest ''offstage'' was perhaps not a concept known to a showman such as Mishima, who starred in gangster films, collected homoerotic photographs of himself and formed his own private army. At the same time as fanatically wanting to preserve Japan from Western influence, he lived in a Victorian-style house, wore Levi's, fetishised Baroque European art and drew inspiration from Andre Gide and Racine.

Like Byron (also sexually transgressive and at odds with his society), Mishima was a prolific and internationally known writer who saw himself also as a politician, a soldier, and a man of the people, but if he is remembered now it is for the manner of his end. He hoped to be immortalised as an artist, fusing art and death on his final day by killing himself after handing in his novel to his publisher. Had he won the Nobel Prize as he was tipped to do, would Mishima have committed hara-kiri on the podium in Oslo?

It sounds as if the Donmar's Madame de Sade will at last upstage Mishima's final performance: if the production is as stimulating as it promises, masochists need not attend.

Hi Bonnie
Thought you might be interested in the attached showing the first cast photo of Judi in Madam de Sade also the Telegraph article on the play

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks a lot, Marian. I'm posting the photo along with the article that appeared in the Telegraph just above this comment.

Marian
Galashiels, Selkirkshire, Scotland -- Tuesday, March 10, 2009 at 8:59 (PDT)

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I wonder "WHO" participated in the poll?

I bet there were a lot of "youngsters" polled who aren't even familiar with Glenda Jackson's "Elizabeth R." And I guess everyone's forgotten Nigel Hawthorne's brilliant performance in "The Madness of King George."

I loved Cate Blanchett's Elizabeth, Kiera Knightley's Duchess, Helen Mirren's Elizabeth II ---- but DJD as Queen Victoria was TOPS in my book!

Mary Bentley
Birmingham, AL USA -- Monday, March 9, 2009 at 8:59 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

Earlier this evening I watched the ATGB Reunion Special, broadcast on KET2 (Kentucky Educational Television). If you'll remember, a couple of weeks ago, I could only listen to the broadcast, due to technical difficulties on an Ohio PBS station (also carried by my cable company). There's not much new to report, but my suspicions were confirmed that the pleas for contributions during the pledge drive were pre-recorded; Moira Brooker and Jenny Funnell spoke of the same ATGB memories and wore the same outfits they were wearing in the clips you posted.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, the program was broadcast nationally last weekend and PBS will probably replay it until everyone gets sick of watching it.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 20:05 (PDT)

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I agree with Joan about Glenda Jackson's performance as Queen Elizabeth I. She defined the role and nobody has done it better. Keith Michell's Henry VIII is another masterpiece and shouldn't be missed. Thank goodness that their performances are on DVDs.

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 16:14 (PDT)

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I agree with your assessment of Glenda Jackson completely. That series, Elizabeth R, and the other, about Henry VIII, (with Keith Michell) are two that are really worth purchasing for your DVD library.

A long time ago I was at Hampton Court Palace, outside of London, where there was an exhibition of the costumes from these series. Money was short and it was fun to see how the pull tabs from beverage cans were used to imitate chain mail armour.

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 12:17 (PDT)

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Another poll has been released, which names Cate Blanchett as the best on-screen monarch for her portrayal of English royal Elizabeth I. This poll has been taken to hype the release of the movie, The Young Victoria, and the results are probably as worthless as most others, including the ones from Harper's Bazaar and Tiffany. Here are the rankings along with percentage of voters who participated:

Cate Blanchett, Elizabeth (1998) - 19 per cent Helen Mirren, The Queen (2006) - 17 per cent Sean Connery, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) - 10 per cent Judi Dench, Mrs Brown (1997) - 9 per cent Anne Hathaway, The Princess Diaries (2001) - 7 per cent Judi Dench, Shakespeare in Love (1998) - 6 per cent Leonardo DiCaprio, The Man in the Iron Mask (1998) - 5 per cent Chris Sarandon, The Princess Bride (1987) - 4 per cent Keira Knightley, The Duchess (2008) - 3 per cent Kenneth Branagh, Henry V (1989) - 2 per cent

I don't know what the other 18 per cent thought, but I certainly think that some people who are quite famous for their portrayals of monarchs are missing from that list.

Speaking of which, I don't think I'll ever forget the impression that Glenda Jackson made on me when I first saw her in the 1971 role of Elizabeth R in the PBS series of the same name. What a brilliant performance that was! If you didn't recognize Glenda Jackson, who is pictured above (in her role as Mary, Queen of Scots), you might want to do yourself a favor and familiarize yourself with her work. You might be surprised (aside from the Politics) at body of her work -- particularly as it mirrors Dame Judi's.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 7:29 (PDT)

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Harper's Bazaar and Tiffany have revealed their Women In Theatre Power List 2009. The 20 names on the list include actresses, playwrights and directors.All those on the list have been given special titles and Harper's have named Dame Judi Dench 'The Queen Bee'.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 18:01 (PDT)

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The character played by Finty Williams was Mary Smith's mother. It is Finty who asks Dr Harrison to go out on the lake with Mary during the outdoor party at Lady Ludlow's.

Anne
USA -- Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 10:25 (PDT)

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Sue, the character Finty is playing in Cranford is that of Mary's stepmother. She arrives at the party at the mansion in a carriage with all her children and invites Mary to go into her carriage, then puts the infant in her lap.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 9:21 (PDT)

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Seeing the photo of Finty from Cranford, reminded me of my efforts to actually identify the character Finty played in the series. She was listed with the character she played but I could never find that character on screen. Was anyone else more successful than me? I thought the character was the sister who dies but that character is only viewed from the rear and had no speaking role.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 7:00 (PDT)

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Cranford is heading back to Lacock by Katie Adams DAME Judi Dench is returning to Lacock this summer after it was announced the BBC want to return to the village to film a Cranford Christmas special. Stars were filmed in the village in April 2007 for the period drama, The Cranford Chronicles, amidst great excitement from locals and tourists. Residents have been invited to a meeting with the BBC, Lacock Tenants Association and the parish council at 7 pm on March 16 for a meeting about the plans where they will be given the chance to vote it through or not. If the residents of the National trust village agree, filming will take place from Monday, June 8 to Saturday, June 13. The cast will include Imelda Staunton, Julia McKenzie, Greg Wise and Francesca Annis as well as Oscar winner, Dame Judi. The show will again be produced by Sue Birtwhistle and Rupert Ryle Hodges, who will both be at the meeting this month to talk to Lacock residents. Jan Harris, general manager of the George Inn in Lacock said she would embrace the filming after last year. She said: "We are really looking forward to it and I understand they also want to film in West Street, which is where we are, so that is very exciting. "The film crew were very nice last time and people love it. It also brings in revenue for the area as people want to retrace the steps of the filming and see where scenes were shot after it is all over too, so they come to the village." Filming will involve scenes set in the High Street, Church Street and West Street and an outline schedule proposes dividing filming into two areas. Casting will also be held for villagers interested in becoming extras.

The article above, written by Katie Adams, appeared this morning at the website, This is Wilshire.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 5:43 (PDT)

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On a repeat episode recently involving Judith and Alistair's marriage, Lionel mentioned to Mrs. Bale that she should make a drink called the "spitting cobra." I have not found such a drink listed anywhere; was this just a comment on the strength of the drinks she makes? If it is real, what is in it?

Jean
Poinciana, FL, USA -- Saturday, March 4, 2009 at 14:26 (PDT)

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Thanks to Jan M. for sending me a couple of pictures of Finty that she found on the net. First is one taken with Judi during the filming of Cranford. It was published in the Sydney Morning Herald. The other appeared on the web site belonging to SilkSoundBooks in connection with the Audiobook of Evelina, which has been mentioned here before:

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 7:21 (PDT)

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Hi Bonnie

I wish the BBC would issue a DVD with all the bloopers or out takes, as we say over here, from As Time Goes By and A Fine Romance - I am sure it would be an instant best seller.

Marian
Galashiels, Selkirkshire, Scotland -- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 4:23 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

For those ATGB fans in the Kentucky (and surrounding) viewing area, the reunion special will be shown Saturday, March 7, beginning at 9:00 p.m. EST on KET2. The website for Kentucky Educational Television may be viewed at www.ket.org. I haven't seen any advertisements for the show, so it's unclear whether or not this will be a 'pledge drive' special.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at 18:10 (PDT)

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I saw the reunion show last evening on WGBH (Boston) and was thrilled to see Moira and Jenny on the tube. Like most of you that have seen the reunion show a few times, I was more interested in the breaks than in the show itself.

How great it was to see both and to hear their stories relating to the show itself. I do believe that if there is to be any hope of another show it should be with the actors reminiscing. Would love to see a bloopers tape as part of it.

So if Bob Larbey and the rest of the powers to be are reading this...........

John Roy
Acushnet, MA USA -- Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at 9:47 (PDT)

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Thank you very much, Bonnie, for posting the UTube tape of Jenny and Moira. I'm not sure if the show was on in Portland. My Tivo doesn't recognize the Reunion Special because it is not called "As TIme Goes By" ... it is called "Reunion Special" so nothing recorded last night. I wanted to mentioned that I purchased On the Up, the Bob Larbey show mentioned. If its not available on Amazon.com, it is likely available for purchase from amazon.co.uk. For sure, you can get the program and almost all programs we talk about on this forum by clicking on the links above for Atgbcentral Amazon US or Atgbcentral Amazon UK. I didn't see On the Up in the US, but it is at the UK Store -- if you want it, search for DVD On the Up to see the series selection. I suspect thats where I got it. It was great fun although not as good as ATGB, of course. Joan Sims has a much larger role in that she is in every episode and is great fun to watch.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You're welcome, Sue.

And, since Jenny and Moira are doing it, I will take this opportunity to say that when you do a search on this site (in the blue box above), whether it is for something on Atgbcentral or anywhere on the web, be sure to click a Google ad if it appears on the page. It doesn't cost you anything to look, but it gives me a little extra cash to pay for this site. For example, if you were to type Geoffrey Palmer in the blue box and check the atgbcentral.com box so you get information only from within my pages, you would see a lot of results, but only one or two in a box that would say Ads By Google in it. If you click on that I will get paid. Or if you wanted to do a general search for something like Plumbers Las Vegas you would type that in the box and leave check "web". That would produce 4 Google ads, one of which might be helpful to you. If you lived in Las Vegas. If you had a leaky faucet. Oh well, you get the idea.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Sunday, March 1, 2009 at 6:13 (PDT)

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Just a few moments from tonight's broadcast so you can see what Jenny and Moira looked like -- sorry about the co-ordination of the last video, but you'll get the idea:

Jenny mentioned that one of her favorite moments was when Lionel was proposing to Jean. Geoffrey had a large pink ring that said "Luscious Lips" on it and he gave that to Judi, which -- as you might imagine -- is something that amused her greatly. Other than that they joked around a bit and talked about their favorite episodes, but mostly they asked that everyone support PBS because it provides such great entertainment.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 22:43 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

My television cable company includes the PBS station WOSU among the channels it provides. Earlier tonight, the station broadcast the first half of the "You Must Remember This" reunion special, with Moira Brooker and Jenny Funnell in the studio for their pledge drive. Unfortunately, due to video difficulty, I was only able to listen to the broadcast for about an hour, after which it mysteriously/suddenly changed to another program. Here are some tidbits I heard:

During one of the pledge breaks, Moira shared her memory of seeing DJD on stage and how it inspired her to pursue acting. Supposedly, Moira was hesitant to share this with Dame Judi, and only did so after the last show.

Jenny also shared a childhood memory of seeing Judi's stage performance in "A King of Alaska". At the time, she wrote to Judi and received a hand-written letter in reply. Years later, she was able to retrieve the letter from her scrapbook and show it to Judi.

Jenny's favorite character was Jean's brother-in-law, Stephen, played by Paul Chapman. She mentioned his sense of humor and bushy eyebrows.

I'm so glad you mentioned this, Margaret, because it was brought up elsewhere on this page (on February 12th) that Moira and Jenny were going to be on tonight and I was thinking this was probably going to go national. Then I forgot all about it until you sent this. Fortunately you sent it in time so I could I set my DVR to record it. Funny: I was actually annoyed when I looked at the TV listings and saw that all the other Britcoms were going to be pre-empted for this special 2005 Reunion Show that I've seen many, many times. AN UPDATE: The show has been on for 18 minutes already so I checked and yes, it is the Moira Brooker/Jenny Funnell broadcast. I saw them at the beginning and they said they'd be back at the commercials. I just checked and they were back briefly between scenes and, basically, they asked people to call in an pledge and showed the PBS premium offers. They are getting really good at this and said nothing new about the show so far.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 19:50 (PDT)

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Bonnie--with regard to TEA TIME, I have been a subscriber since June 2007 and always found it to be an informative and entertaining newsletter. This article about Bob Larbey is so informative. I would also urge anyone who hasn't already subscribed to do so. You won't be disappointed.

The one show that wasn't mentioned was "On the Up". He wrote 19 episodes in 1990-1992; Joan Sims (Madge) is one of the key players & Fiona Mollison (Miss Ice Cubes-Sally Curtis) is in at least 2 episodes. I have 2 shows on TiVo & am sorry I didn't save more. The last time I checked it was not available in the USA. Some very fine writing in this.

Evelyn
San Diego CA USA -- Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 19:25 (PDT)

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Wonderful site, thank you for the work involved in putting it up, love the show to death.

John and Mary Tuohy
McLean, VA USA -- Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 17:19 (PDT)

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Maryland Public Television released its latest Tea Times (March 2009) and in it there is an article which was written in 2004 celebrating the partnership of Bob Larbey and John Esmonde. If you are not already a member, please sign up on the site so you can read it.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 11:35 (PDT)

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Wendy Richard, probably best known to Britcom fans in the U.S. for her role as Miss Shirley Brahms in Are You Being Served, passed away today. More recently she starred as Pauline in EastEnders. There are quite a few tributes to her at the Guardian (UK) including these memorable clips.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 9:14 (PDT)

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Just seeing your comment again about how the producers check up on this website and respond; do you think we could stir up enough enthusiasm for the cast reunion, not an episode, where the actors just sit together and talk about their experiences appearing in their various roles on ATGB, that something might actually come of it? Several others have demonstrated interest since it was first mentioned on this site, not too long ago, and perhaps a concerted effort on our part might make it happen. What do you think?

It could be great fun.

Joan, I guarantee that the producers are very much aware of the general feeling on this site that a cast reunion would be welcomed by the fans. If and when there is any news regarding such a project they know they have a forum on which to announce it. So the answer is no, I don't think any further effort is necessary.

Joan in PA
USA -- Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at 8:21 (PDT)

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Here's an article on the play Noises Off. It appeared in the Chester Chronicle today and was written by Eleanor Barlow.

Actor Philip Bretherton goes from Coronation Street to Clwyd Theatr Cymru Following stints on the cobbles of Weatherfield and in the wards of Holby's A& E department*, actor Philip Bretherton is set to appear at Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Mold. Philip has previously been seen seducing Sally Webster as Ian Davenport in Coronation Street, saving lives as Andrew Bower in Casualty, dealing with the outrageous antics of players as manager Stefan Hauser in Footballers' Wives and playing sophisticated man about town Alistair Deacon, in the sitcom As Time Goes By. He is now taking on the role of director Lloyd Dallas in farcical comedy Noises Off, which is running at the theatre until Saturday, March 14. He said: "I play the director of a company where all of the actors have some kind of quirk. "One loses his temper very quickly, one likes a drink, one gets a nose bleed every time something dramatic happens -- there is a lot of potential for the play going wrong." The story follows the company from rehearsals and shows all the worries coming true as the performance goes spectacularly wrong -- with hilarious consequences. "It is a really funny play and we've had a lot of laughs rehearsing it,"said Philip. And the storyline is not that far from the truth, he admitted. He said: "I have come across actors like the characters in the play, but the difference with this is that they are all in the same cast and everything that could go wrong goes wrong. "I think the worst experience I've ever had was when I was just about to go on stage in Birmingham and the set caught fire!" He describes his character as arrogant and a bit of a ladies' man. "He is based on all the directors I've ever worked with -- I've had a lot of inspiration," he said. This is the fifth play the actor has appeared in at the Mold theatre and, although he is based in London, he enjoys spending time in this part of the world. He said: "I'm originally from Preston but I used to come on holiday to this area when I was younger, so it's really nice to come back here. "This is a lovely place to work and it's a beautiful theatre."

*NOTE FROM BONNIE: Just a few notes -- Philip was born in Preston, Lancashire, on May 30th 1955. Weatherfield is a fictional area of Greater Manchester which serves as the setting for the British ITV soap opera "Coronation Street". Holby's A & E is a reference from the series "Casualty," which chronicles the accident and Emergency department of Holby City hospital.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 20, 2009 at 9:04 (PDT)

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I enjoy this site so much, and appreciate your efforts in keeping fans connected.

Evalynn Christiansen
Location unknown -- Friday, February 20, 2009 at 7:09 (PDT)

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Some things in life simply draw you in.

Judi Dench's performance is such that I honestly believe it mirrors her personal life.

I allow myself that illusion.

Thank you for this programming and although some would feel that it's time to move on, I would surely welcome them in my home for many more seasons.

Thank you again.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Although I'm not responsible for scheduling, I'll happily take the credit for keeping interest in the program alive. The producers, as most of you know, do read the comments section and will let me know if they see something of interest to them. So keep those comments coming.

Paul.
USA -- Thursday, February 19, 2009 at 6:08 (PDT)

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Philip is scheduled to be in the comedy "Noises Off" starting Feb 24 in Wales. Here's the info.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: If you will be in the area, be sure to click on the link in the article. What it says is that the play will run at the Anthony Hopkins Theatre from tomorrow (Thursday, February 19) through Saturday, March 14, so call first to confirm the dates.

Here is a brief description of the play: A late night technical rehearsal for the sex comedy Nothing On is fast degenerating into chaos: Dotty doesn't know whether to hold a newspaper or a plate of sardines, the doors on the stage set won't open or close and company veteran Selsdon Mowbray is missing. And there are only hours until curtain up on the first night in Weston-super-Mare. Watch a double drama unfold as Noises Off exposes the antics, rivalries and hostilities of an acting company, both on and off the stage, in a comic masterpiece which promises non-stop laughter. Noises Off was voted best comedy at the Olivier and Evening Standard awards and received TONY and Drama Desk nominations on Broadway. Directed by Terry Hands following his recent hit productions of Memory in Wales, London and New York, Macbeth, The Cherry Orchard and A Chorus of Disapproval.

Dee
Chicago, IL USA -- Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 6:00 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

While surfing the internet, I came across [this] article on the Telegraph.co.uk website.

It appears there's a movement to return Miss Moneypenny and "Q" to the screen for the next Bond film.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I don't believe it. My mailbox has been filled with alerts like this and the fact that Judi is so afraid of enclosed dark spaces that she refuses to go see her movies in the theatre. Samantha Bond has said that she will absolutely not be back.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Saturday, February 14, 2009 at 12:30 (PDT)

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Well, given the fact that almost nobody -- including Judi -- knew what the movie was about, "Riddle" sounds just about right to me. And, Bonnie, I still call it "Quantum of Silence," so you're not alone.

That's pretty funny, Marla.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Saturday, February 14, 2009 at 8:47 (PDT)

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Ooops! That should have been Chronicles of Riddick. Sorry.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: When I read what you wrote (see below) I saw what I wanted to see (which was Riddick). I know I could have just changed it and probably no-one would be the wiser, but that plus your current comment gave me quite a laugh, considering the second sentence, which made it sound as though she might have done a previously unpublicized satire with the the crew of Monty Python -- I ruled out the possibility that you were providing the German Translation. It also reminded me of the many, many, many times I posted updates on the film, Quantum of Silence.

Joan in PA
USA -- Friday, February 13, 2009 at 22:42 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

Earlier this evening, I went to see "Pink Panther 2", primarily to see what type of role Geoffrey Palmer had in the movie. He was the first credited actor to appear on screen. Sadly, his time in the movie was limited to the first 3-4 minutes. He looks well...but a quite short standing next to John Cleese.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Friday, February 13, 2009 at 18:13 (PDT)

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While swanning around German tv last night, I caught a tiny bit of DJD in The Chronicles of Riddle. I can't imagine why she chose to take a role in such a silly film -- perhaps just for fun. I am also very close to one of the filming sites for Quantum of Solace (Bregenz, Austria). This is turning into a DJD tour, unwittingly. By the way, the Germans dub voices, no subtitles, and the voice was very nearly that of DJD.

Joan in PA
USA -- Friday, February 13, 2009 at 2:07 (PDT)

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Someone had asked what Jenny Funnell was up to. Jenny and Moira Brooker will be here at our local PBS on February 28th. They will be in the studio to add commentary while the ATGB Reunion special is shown. I don't know if they will be appearing elsewhere while in the states. It will be interesting to see if they will have any new stories.

I checked their website and didn't see any information, other than the fact that the Reunion Show will be re-telecast on that date. I don't know if this is a previously taped program or a new one. If anyone is able to see the show, please write and let us know what happened. I'm sure everyone would enjoy hearing about it.

Linda
Johnston, Iowa USA -- Thursday, February 12, 2009 at 12:09 (PDT)

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Bonnie, that blooper from AFR is precious! I wish I knew how to find other bloopers from that series. I also wish they made a DVD with all the bloopers from both ATGB and AFR.

On another subject: it seems that "Rage" has not been very successful in Berlin. It is probably an experimental film; I want to see it anyway, just to have my own opinion about it.

Thanks and keep the good work.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, it was a cute clip and I want to thank Kathy Perry for pointing it out to me. If anyone spots any more, let me know. And I think all of us would love nothing better than to see what hit the cutting room floor -- blooper or not -- since most of us have already seen every episode (not only once but many times over) that actually made it to the series.

As for Rage, if there is an art house in your area, you might watch for it, but if it plays at all I would go there on day one. Here in the Vegas area we are known for having a different kind of art house, one at which we are not likely to see anything of Sally Potter's. If you haven't already seen the film clip from Reuters look at the link towards the end of my comment from yesterday. You might change your mind.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at 10:40 (PDT)

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It took me awhile to get into A Fine Romance, but I love it. AFR was my introduction to Michael Williams and he's just wonderful. Judi is always a revelation and there's nothing funnier than her visit to the dentist. Thanks for the booper clip, Bonnie.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at 11:49 (PDT)

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Don't be disappointed if you cancelled your plans to see the festival. If you were looking for a reason not to go to the Berlinale this year, have a look at this article, written for indieWire by Shane Danielson -- I have posted only a portion:

Five days into the 2009 Berlinale, and amid grumblings of discontent from critics ("Twenty films so far," said one colleague, "and I haven't seen one thing I'd champion") and a pronounced lack of enthusiasm among buyers, one sensed a new tone to proceedings: if the program couldn't entertain us, then by god it was going to IMPROVE us. Indeed, if Berlin 09 will be remembered for anything, it will be for its eagerness to tell us, with every ounce of anguished sincerity it could muster, the bleeding obvious. Take "Rage", the latest from British writer-director Sally Potter, in which she pronounces her judgment upon the fashion industry. It's bad, apparently. Bad for women (forced to be too thin)) and bad for society (encouraged to be superficial and modish). This conclusion, blindingly apparent to anyone who's ever browsed an issue of Vogue or Surface -- or, I don't know, visited a shop -- appears to have struck Potter with the force of holy revelation. Something must be done! she thought (sitting in what, I do not doubt, would be an exquisitely decorated home, with a wardrobe full of lovely clothes). The truth must be told! That she chose to respond without much apparent sense of how the fashion industry actually functions, and via a stylistic device that would exclude all but the most dedicated arthouse audiences (the film is a series of direct-to-camera interviews with stars like Jude Law and Judi Dench -- all in character -- shot against super-saturated backgrounds), attests either to the urgency of her mission (no time to waste on research!), or her unshakeable conviction that She Knows Best. Charity obliges me to believe the former; experience, however, suggests the latter.

I read another review which said "Boxoffice will be limited to members of the filmmaker's family, if that." I guess that says it all. If you want to take a peek at it, look look here. I'm not sure if you'll ever get another chance to see it, but you might check art houses, video stores, Sally Potter's blog and re:frame if you ever get the urge because I'm done quoting from reviews here.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at 9:36 (PDT)

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I am just wondering if of any of you ATGB fans find AFR to be boring? Somone who made a post on IMBD board that said he/she found AFR boring and liked ATGB better. I like them same the amount; they are very different shows. NOTE FROM BONNIE: I agree with you -- they are very different shows and I liked them both. At left is a clip of Judi & Michael in an AFR Blooper.

Stephanie
Arcadia, CA USA -- Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at 8:32(PDT)

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Just puttering around and came across some things that might be of interest. First, Sally Potter's site has been updated recently and there might be some new insights into her film-making so you can take a look there at the new forum and blog entries. Also, according to her site, she's joined re:frame in New York and some of her works are available for purchase or preview. From what I've seen it looks more experimental than I'm comfortable with, but to each his own.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 16:45 (PDT)

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Here's another review of Rage which tells you a little more about it, but also mentions the audience reaction.

Also, you can see -- at the Bafta site -- some arrival photos taken a while ago in London, so the awards are well under way. Brad and Angelina are there, but I have not seen Judi either in footage or audience shots.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 12:37 (PDT)

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And, speaking of Berlin, this is a portion of the first review I've taken the time to read and it might explain why the buzz seems low:

"Rage" by British film-maker Sally Potter ... [was] hotly awaited ... at the 59th annual event, with their all-star casts and innovative European directors.

Potter's film is a send-up of the beauty industry, set around New York fashion week. It is constructed solely around a series of stand-up interviews with caricatures out of the world of glamour.

There is Minx, a vain Russian supermodel (an almost unrecognizable Law disguised in a black fright wig and a bustier), Dench as a ruthless critic with a taste for marijuana and Steve Buscemi as a jaded photographer.

Real-life model Lily Cole's giant blue eyes peek out from behind her copper tresses as she tells of her loneliness in the business and begs the person behind the camera -- a teenage blogger called Michelangelo -- to take her away.

And comic Eddie Izzard appears as Tiny Diamonds, a media magnate hunting for the next big thing.

The format was unique and minimalist but audiences here got fidgety after the first few minutes when it became clear the monologues were all the film had to offer. A few dozen people walked out a third of the way into the picture.

The 11-day Berlinale, as the festival is known, ranks second only to Cannes in size and prestige.

"Rage" is screening out of competition ... 18 films [are] vying for the Golden Bear top prize.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 10:34 (PDT)

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Level of interest in DJD at the Berlin International Film Festival--0. The Berlin newspaper this morning (Sunday) had a special four-page supplement covering the festival. One mention of Rage, just as one of the films to be presented, and the only mention of Judi Dench (or Judy, as she was named) was as a cast member thereof. There was a small article detailing the arrival at the airport of four stars within two hours--John Goodman, Woody Harrelson and two others I've never heard of. The films drawing excitement here are "International," and "Storm." Of course, when Brad and Angie, or Leonardo DiC turn up, the real fun will begin.

Perhaps things will change "as time goes by."

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You remind me, Joan, that the Baftas are tonight so I thought I'd mention that they are being broadcast this evening (several times) on BBCAmerica. I don't know about Judi, but I'm pretty sure that Brad and Angelina, who are both nominated, will make an appearance. You can supposedly watch some of the happenings at Bafta.org in case you don't get the channel.

Special ATGB Berlin Correspondent

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 1:48 (PDT)

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Just love the show. Please! Please! Please! do another reunion show!

Kind Regards

Margaret Terry
Oakland, California USA -- Saturday, February 7, 2009 at 23:18 (PDT)

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I generally don't like British sitcoms but fell in love with As Time Goes By from the first time I saw it. I purchased the complete boxed set of the show. And when my spirits get low I play them. It would be nice to see future shows when the grandchildren come and to see how Rocky is after landing in the hospital after his little time in line dancing class.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I suppose they could re-cast the role of Rocky the way they did with Harry. Unfortunately, both Frank Middlemass and Joan Sims have passed away. You can do a search on the atgbcentral site to read about their deaths.

Donna K.
Medford, Oregon USA -- Saturday, February 7, 2009 at 20:58 (PDT)

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Hi Bonnie!

I totally agree with Joan from PA and John Roy from MA , in place of another reunion show, a reunion with the cast all sitting around telling what they're up to now would be great, as well as their favorite scenes, outtakes and bloopers; THAT could be hilarious and extremely entertaining.

Thank you Bonnie for giving us ATGB fanatics our daily "fix" of what's going on with Judi, Geoffrey and everyone else. I too, would like to know what Jenny Funnell is up to, anyone know?

A true ATGB fan,

Deborah
Altoona, PA USA -- Friday, February 6, 2009 at 9:23 (PDT)

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I too echo Joan's sentiments (01/29/09)that we shouldnt await (yet)another ATGB reunion. The reunion shows,in my humble opinion,were not all that funny and the story line was weak. If it was up to me I would have enjoyed watching a reunion show which had Lionel and Jean focused on enjoying their advanced retirement years and the joys and difficulties that come with senior living. It would have been a poignant way to end the program. With that said having cast come togther for a reunion show with outtakes and bloopers would be something that I would find interesting and would love to see.

Lastly does anyone have any info on what Jenny Funnell is up to?

John Roy
Acushnet, MA USA -- Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 10:39 (PDT)

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Can anyone explain to me why Leo DeCaprio would be among the first honorees in Shakespeare's Hall of Fame? With so many other classic Shakespearian actors alive? What am I missing?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: He's a fine actor who has received recognition for his work, but certainly his connection to Shakespeare pales in comparison to the others who are mentioned in the article. I imagine if you're planning an event that is open to the public you might want to book and publicize someone that has a large public following. They are "inducting" Patrick Stewart and Kenneth Branagh and Laurence Olivier as well but one of them is dead and the other two don't draw the crowds that Leonardo would. They might be able to convince hime to appear at the opening. It does seem to be a puzzling choice, given his limited association with the bard, but from the publicity angle it makes perfect sense to me.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 9:01 (PDT)

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A couple of bits: More footage from yesterday's Award Show (speaking of which -- the BAFTAs are this weekend and Judi is not nominated). Hers is the last interview in the clip.

Also Judi and Leonardo DiCaprio, among others, are set to enter the Shakespeare Hall of Fame when it opens on April 9th, this year.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 8:32 (PDT)

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Lovely, Bonnie! She must have developed cramps for signing so graciously all those photos! Thanks for posting it.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, February, 2009 at 7:26 (PDT)

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Here's a YouTube video of Judi's arrival at the London Critics Award Presentation at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 20:08 (PDT)

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How nice for Judi. I wonder what the little green circle is on her dress.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I don't know for sure, but... -- judging from what is behind her -- it has something to do with NSPCC. So I looked that up and when I see that has something to do with child abuse prevention, I'm guessing Judi would be quick to support it. And since these are labeled as "the only film awards that raise money for charity" I think that that's probably the answer to your question. But I could be wrong.

And while I'm at it, I also looked up Dilys Powell, who was a film critic.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 15:27 (PDT)

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<

British actress Judi Dench was given the Dilys Powell award at the 29th Annual London Film Critics' Circle Awards in London, Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009. Awards bestowed by the London Film Critics' Circle recognise the best in British
and international film talent and are the only film awards that raise money for charity.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 15:09 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

I seem to remember someone asking if Geoffrey Palmer's voice could be heard during the "Pink Panther 2" trailers shown in theaters prior to "Quantum of Solace" viewings. Evidently, that person heard correctly. A cast list ... available at the IMDB website lists Geoffrey playing the character of "Joubert". The movie opens this weekend (February 6).

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY, USA -- Tuesday, February 3, 2009 at 15:38 (PDT)

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At first glance, Rage, the new film by Sally Potter which premieres in competition at the Berlin film festival next week, is a familiar beast. A murder-mystery set in the fashion houses of Manhattan, it boasts a starry, Brit-heavy ensemble, with Jude Law in drag to play mysterious supermodel Minx and real-life model Lily Cole as vulnerable starlet Lettuce Leaf.

Your mind would be forgiven for wandering back to Gosford Park, Robert Altman's virtuoso country house whodunnit, or even The Cat's Meow, a lavishly befrocked tale of slaughter set aboard a luxury yacht and featuring Eddie Izzard (also present and correct in Rage) as Charlie Chaplin.

But Rage's real target, it turns out, is not the rag trade -- though Potter, speaking on the phone from Paris, can't resist a little dig at "an industry that reduces people to things, that puts profits above all else".

Instead, Rage is an examination of the power of the internet and the age of compulsive confession; a warning shot at an info-saturated environment which confers power on cyber-savvy youngsters, leaving adults hostages of their own ignorance, and their desire to bare their souls.

"What we see these days," she says, "is a lot of false confession. A desire to speak the truth that people confuse with saying how you feel in the moment. Unless there's a real honesty and articulateness that isn't about clamouring for fame then all this is meaningless. But it's what you see, everyday, all round, all the time."

The seeds of Potter's interest in all things online were sown when she was promoting her previous film, Yes, a typically avant-garde romance between a Middle Eastern man and a western woman. Through her website blog, Potter became creepingly aware of previously-untapped potential for debate and interaction.

"People shared their stories, got involved in very long discussion threads. They talked about the way Middle Eastern men had become demonised; what the difference was between an Arabic and a Lebanese man. And these discussions really took me by surprise. It was so liberating and educative. I discovered a completely different way of communicating with an audience. Before they were just anonymous -- an imaginary animal."

Does she think that film-makers have been slow in reacting to the evolution of the internet?

"Probably, yes. But I think it's partly because a feature film has an identity as an object -- attention clusters around it -- whereas the way things travel on the internet is much more amorphous and hidden. If you're not in it you don't know it's there. So it's a mix of mass communication and of secrecy."

Rage was shot on a digital camera in a faux-naif style designed to look like something that could conceivably have been knocked out by a teenager on their Mac. This quest for authenticity had the handy by-product of keeping costs down -- something crucial, Potter thinks, not just for maximising potential profit, but also its commercial appeal.

"I think there is a growing appetite for films that don't flaunt their budgets, for a no-waste aesthetic, a sort of 'poor cinema'. Rage is skeletal, really; elemental. And so it goes back to the roots of the relationship between the audience and the actor."

It's a communication, Potter thinks, that's been muddied recently.

"There's been an almost addictive appetite for greater and greater effects and thrills, to the degree where you can't feel anything any more. The too-muchness of it all has a numbing effect. It's only when you strip things back and feel this spaciousness that you can really begin to see and hear because you're not flooded with overstimulation."

Time will tell if Rage's no-frills style is embraced by the Berlin jury, but Potter's cast certainly welcomed the challenge -- and the exposure. "I loved it," says John Leguizamo. "It was super-indulgent and narcissistic for me. Here I was alone with the director and no other actor siblings to argue or fight for attention with. The camera was always on me."

Judi Dench calls Rage "without question, the most unusual piece of work I've ever done". It's a sentiment echoed by Adriana Barraza, who calls the making of Rage "one of the great experiences that I've had in my 37 years as an actress".

But a more cautious note is sounded by Dianne Wiest. "I remember telling Sally while we were shooting how relieved I felt to be a part of her revolution," she says. "How good it felt even if it was only imaginary."

This interview with Sally Potter (who is pictured above) was from the Guardian, UK. To see the members of the cast -- including the glorious Eddie Izzard and Jude Law in drag, click the link.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, February 3, 2009 at 8:49 (PDT)

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If you're in the neighborhood next week, stop by the Berlin International Film Festival for the screenings of Rage. Or just be like me and visit the website.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, February 1, 2009 at 8:46 (PDT)

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Much as we would all love to see more of the Hardcastles and their grandchildren, I think we should resign ourselves to the fact that there will be no more. It is probably best this way--leave them wanting more. There were several people on this site who voiced their displeasure at the last season of ATGB, calling it rushed, bad writing, etc. And in all honesty, the reunion specials were not up to the best of ATGB--silly and forced in many ways.

What might be fun would be a reunion of the cast, just sitting together and remembering the fun and good times of creating ATGB and the bloopers. Perhaps they would consider doing something like that.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Now that sounds to me like a good idea, Joan.

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 16:02 (PDT)

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Will they ever make another ATGB? My wife and I really enjoy the reruns, even though we've seen them numerous times; you never get tired of them. Can anyone talk the stars of the show into making just one more? Dealing with Grand Children would make a great show. Come on, Please, just one more!!!!!!!!!!

George
Unknown -- Friday, January 30, 2009 at 16:40 (PDT)

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And more thanks to Jan for sending the YouTube links to some out-takes from Cranford. And here are some more.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 8:26 (PDT)

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Thanks to Jan for sending me a review of Tons of Money, the play which stars Finty.

For those of you who have been following the fight of Judi and other protesters with respect to the proposed eco-towns near Shakespeare's birthplace, a judge has ruled that the government has done nothing wrong and planning can continue. There are many more references on Google about the issue: just look up Dench eco-towns.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 17:13 (PDT)

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Marisetta--I agree with you 100 per cent. That is a very funny scene which I have always believed happened accidentally and the reaction of both Lionel and Jean was simply too good to be left out.

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, January 24, 2009 at 8:12 (PDT)

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Joan in PA: in the same episode you mention, there is another scene that I find delightfully funny; when Lionel comes back in the car after realizing that they are on the wrong way and he tries fastening the seat-belt: he pulls several times too hard and the belt blocks and the more he tries the more he gets mad and the more the belt blocks, and Jean bursts out laughing. I really believe that was not in the script and the director decided to leave it because it is so natural and so funny that the whole scene gains from it. Don't you think so?

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Friday, January 23, 2009 at 17:58 (PDT)

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This is not a favorite episode, but rather a favorite moment. In the episode where Jean and Lionel decide to leave at 3 a.m. in order to avoid the "county set", Sandy points out that if they go down early, they'll have to stay indoors the whole time, lest they be seen. Jean attempts to rebut this, but can't. Watching her face and mouth move as she tries to bring out some words, of which there are none, is hilarious each time I see it.

Joan in PA
USA -- Thursday, January 22, 2009 at 12:50 (PDT)

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I love Tolkien, so I'm anxious to try the YouTube connection when I have more time!

It's funny how we hear things differently. I always thought Penny said "Ilona", an unusual name for an English person, but a major character (and even a song) from the Jerry Bock/Sheldon Harnick musical, She Loves Me (and, I think, its "parent" movie, Ernst Lubitsch's The Shop Around the Corner set in a Hungarian shop). Both original movie and the musical are wonderful and charming, by the way.

Nancy
NY USA -- Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 11:27 (PDT)

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Nancy, NY Joan, my granddaughter calls me Nana, which is a common name for grandmothers here in the South.

Mary
Baton Route, LA USA -- Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 11:19 (PDT)

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I have always understood that to be "a nona" which might be a pet name for an elderly aunt or grandmother, who has a few burned out bulbs in the chandelier. Lots of grandmothers on this country are referred to affectionately as Nana.

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 5:45 (PDT)

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Is Nine still filming? When do rehersals for Madame de Sade begin? I thought filmig had finished on Judi birthday with the shooting of the last dance scenes and with Judi singing.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: According to imdb.com, as of last week Nine (not scheduled to premiere until November 25th of this year) was still filming and I have no idea what Judi did on her birthday with respect to that film. Similarly, I know that the de Sade performance begins on March 13th, but I have no idea when, exactly, they plan to start rehearsals.

Stephanie Perry < stepperry2008@yahoo.com >
Arcadia, Ca USA -- Monday, January 19, 2009 at 20:44 (PDT)

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Hello!

Can anyone solve a mystery for me? In the episode where Penny comes to stay at Jean's home, with suitcases in tow, Penny mentions that she could have stayed with an "owner" but the place or person was "going peculiar." Jean repeats this to Lionel a few minutes later. I haven't a clue to what she is talking about! I tried a search for the scene and the word, but still the mystery remains. What was Penny talking about?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: It is mentioned twice in Season 4, Episode 4. She first mentions it when she goes to the employment agency -- she says she needs to be with family and that Jean is the closest thing she's got to family (except for Anona who has gone a bit peculiar). Later when Jean brings Penny home she explains this to Lionel, but does not elaborate on who Anona is. If you have the DVD you can turn on the subtitles to see the spelling of the name.

Denise
Berrett, MD USA -- Monday, January 19, 2009 at 20:03 (PDT)

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Interested in JRR Tolkien? If you are, you might want to see a 12 part documentary narrated by Dame Judi that was posted yesterday at YouTube. Click on the link to start.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, January 19, 2009 at 8:37 (PDT)

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I was doing a bit of research on the appearance that Judi made on Morecombe & Wise and there are quite a few references to it on the internet. Agreement seems to be that the date of the broadcast was October 18, 1978, which puts Judi in her mid-forties at the time, although she looks quite a bit younger.

I came across Judi's biography which I have read many times and I find something that strikes me as interesting every time I read it. This time I found the sentence: At Nottingham Playhouse, she put a notice on the box-office saying "Judi Dench is not ill - she just talks like this" and would also send herself up in 1968, when appearing on the Morecambe & Wise Show. So either she did more than one appearance on the show or this biography has the date wrong. I did read several reviews of the Morecambe & Wise DVD which described the show that was posted on YouTube and the Jekyll & Hyde Sketch was the one done in 1978.

Also I didn't realize that Judi had a history with Daniel Day-Lewis -- she appears with him in the movie Nine . Out of curiosity, after I read about it in Judi's biography I went to his entry at the same site and read about the nervous breakdown he experienced which forced him to leave the stage production of Hamlet in which Judi played his mother, Gertrude.

I think that those of you who are big fans of Judi's, but who are unfamiliar with Judi's history in the theatre might might enjoy reading this biography, which was written by Dominic Wills. Almost everything contained in it is addressed elsewhere on this site, but certainly not in such a linear way.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, January 16, 2009 at 15:43 (PDT)

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Delicious tidbits, Bonnie! Re.: favourites again: I love the scene when, after the lecture in Norwich, Jean and Lionel are waiting for their rides, Jean with Alistair to the hotel for a nightcap, and Lionel back to Denise's home; Lionel tells Jean: "You won't be silly, will you?" and she replies: "No sillier than you!" I crack up every time I watch it again.

Keep it up, Bonnie!

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Friday, January 16, 2009 at 13:25 (PDT)

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I don't know if you had heard this before, but all episodes of ATGB are now available on the "view instantly" list for Netflix subscribers in the US. This is great as you can watch any episode you want on your computer! I've been a fan for years and am thrilled that I can watch my favorites (all the weddings and the "Paris" episode) any time.

Gretchen
Riverside, RI USA -- Friday, January 16, 2009 at 8:58 (PDT)

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Some Tidbits: Here's a plug for one of our own readers -- known on YouTube as Mymra -- who has been a poster of Judi Dench clips for some time. Yesterday she posted some of Judi's appearance on the Morecambe & Wise show. So if you have some free time, grab a snack and watch these wonderful clips. Judi, of course will be opening in London at the Donmar in March and will be doing a sequel to Cranford, which is scheduled to run at Christmastime at the end of the year. The film in which she co-stars -- Nine -- will open in November of this year. And Rage will be premiering in Berlin next month. Lots of irons in the fire.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, January 16, 2009 at 8:26 (PDT)

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Hi Everyone, Back to favorite episodes, funny thing is that over the years mine changes! I watched the episode where Lionel has his book signing (not usually one of my favorites) but I found his character to be completely out of character...he was so sweet to the lady who wanted it signed "with affection"...not his usual curmudgeon-y self at all! I was pleasantly suprised to find myself smiling while watching---goes to show you that this show never tires and you can always find something new --even while watching for the, I dunno, MILLIONTH time!

Sherry
Macon GA USA -- Thursday, January 15, 2009 at 18:28 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

I just wanted to once again let everyone know that there is a group of fans going to London to see Dame Judi perform in Madame de Sade on Saturday April 25th. It is not too late for others to join with us. There are some available show tickets in the group. If anyone is interested they can contact me for the full information. Email address: ncpryor56@hotmail.com

Glenda
USA -- Thursday, January 15, 2009 at 13:02 (PDT)

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What a surprise to see Lysette Anthony in this play, along with Finty and Janet Henfrey. She's a great character actress, (her aunt is actress Sarah Miles) and she's also worked with Phil Bretherton in "Murder in Suburbia", a British series that featured 2 women detectives, solving crimes in hour episodes. She played his wife, socialite Beth Whitmore, and Phil was her husband, Philip Whitmore, the surgeon. Outside of Alastair, this was one of his best roles. It had a great script and casting. I think this is his true persona. I'd love to see them work together once again.

Dee
Chicago, IL USA -- Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at 17:54 (PDT)

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I went along to the first night of "Tons of Money" at Malvern Festival theatre last night and to my surprise, and delight, Janet Henfrey has taken over the role of Miss Mullet in this production. A role not completely disimilar to Mrs Bales, but looking more glamorous :D Finty played the housemaid, Simpson, she didn't have as much stage time as some of the others but she was very funny, particularly when paired with Christopher Timothy who was playing her love interest - the butler, Sproules. I've included some scans from the programme if any guestbook readers were interested.

I believe the production is also going to the following places if anyone wanted to go along and see it themselves:

19 Jan -- 24 Jan Richmond Theatre, Richmond
26 Jan -- 31 Jan Theatre Royal, Plymouth
02 Feb -- 07 Feb King's Theatre, Edinburgh
09 Feb -- 14 Feb Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford

NOTE FROM BONNIE: This comment was sent to me by someone who did not sign it, but I'm very grateful for the scans and know we all appreciate it.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at 9:51 (PDT)

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It's good to see Judi relaxing and enjoying herself on her day off in Rome. I'm surprised "Nine" is still in production. She won't have much of a break before she has to start rehearsals for Madame de Sade. I wish I had her energy.

Mary
Baton Rouge, La USA -- Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 15:23 (PDT)

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Bonnie, Thanks for the great photos. Must of been nice for her to have a day off and just relax. Thank you for posting the picture!

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 13:03 (PDT)

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Bonnie, Rome is my hometown. I was tremendously excited to see Judi shopping in my "own" flea market!

Thank you for posting the picture!

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 9:58 (PDT)

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Bonnie, thanks for all the interesting photos in recent days. You take good care of all of us.

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 8:44 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

thank you sooooo much for sharing! What a nice surprise to see Judi just walking there and looking for something special :) Great photos! I wish i were in Rome now :))) Greetings from snowy Warsaw, Poland!

Poli N.
Warsaw, Poland -- Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 2:18 (PDT)

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Dear Bonnie,

I've just discovered "As Time Goes By" and I absolutely love it! It airs every Saturday evening on KAET PBS in Arizona, USA. If I'm not at home on Saturday evenings, I definitely record it. It's a feel good show that lifts my spirits. The whole cast is charming especially Geoffrey Palmer and Judi Dench. I just want to say thanks to all that were involved in creating the show so I can have the joy of watching it.

A new fan,

Tina
Coolidge, Arizona, USA -- Monday, January 12, 2009 at 18:13 (PDT)

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This evening I watched Laura Linney interviewed on Inside the Actor's Studio. I have great respect for her as an actor. James Lipton said to her: "You have said there are good actors, and then there are "The touched ones. The ones who live on another planet". Who are they? She replied: Meryl Streep, Sean Penn, Daniel Day-Lewis and Judi Dench. I agree!

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Monday, January 12, 2009 at 17:49 (PDT)

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On her day off from filming Nine, Judi Dench was spotted shopping for jewelry and fur accessories in Rome's Porta Portese.
Click here to see more photos.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, January 12, 2008 at 5:10 (PDT)

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Judi and Daniel Day-Lewis
More photos of the pair, hopefully in costume for their roles in Nine.

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One of my favorite episodes of ATGB is one of the very earliest in the first season when Lionel goes to give a lecture and the audience accuses him of being an elephant killer. The sight of that inflatable elephant on the top of his "girlfriend's" car always makes me laugh. I also get a kick out of the way Jean handles Alistair as he tries to seduce her. She puts him in his place while still maintaining her composure and sense of humor.

Mary
Baton Rouge, LA USA -- Thursday, January 8, 2009 at 15:31 (PDT)

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Count me in as somebody who is crazy about "The Songs of Kenya" episode. And, Joan, I think you're right about Moira going off-script with her video comment. It's priceless.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Thursday, January 8, 2009 at 7:51 (PDT)

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Regarding the Songs of Kenya, by Lionel Hardcastle--that was one time when I was sure that Moira (Judith) went totally off script. When she said, "And if Lionel does the video--", her cracking up with laughter seemed absolutely genuine.

Joan in PA
USA -- Wednesday, January 7, 2009 at 9:39 (PDT)

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Happy New Year to everybody! With reference to the favourite episodes, has anybody mentioned "the songs of Kenya by Lionel Hardcastle"? or Lionel's battles against the computer age? I think those episodes are hilarious!

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at 13:26 (PDT)

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Bonnie: Assuming that the 2/25/99 date on the website is the date of its founding, are you planning anything in the way of a tenth anniversary celebration in the upcoming month?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Actually the website began in August of 1998. I mentioned it previously, so there's nothing to celebrate at the moment except the New Year, which --I hope -- will be a better one for everyone. On that date in February of 1999 I used a new counter, but the site had already been active for half a year.

Joan in PA
USA -- Monday, January 5, 2009 at 8:47 (PDT)

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Marla, often when pouring myself a cup of tea, I am reminded of the scene in the restaurant, early in the series, where Lionel thinks he has outsmarted the closed bar and orders a "pot of China Tea; that's China Tea," believing it to be code for Brandy in a tea pot. The expression on Jean's face as tea pours out of the spout is priceless. "It's tea!" she says.

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, January 4, 2009 at 8:45 (PDT)

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Whenever I cannot quite hear my wife saying something, I usually respond with 'something about oysters??', or just 'oysters??' as shorthand. Which of course is the episode where the girls think Lionel is going deaf! Very handy when you're starting to approach 'mature years'..LOL

Mike T.
New York, NY, USA -- Saturday, January 3, 2009 at 20:12 (PDT)

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Quick question I forgot to put in the last email. I know Judi is nominated fo a Golden Globe award just want to know when they will be on tv. Also, has anyone read or heard if Judi will be there?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Cameron Diaz, Jessica Lange and Chris Rock have been set as presenters at 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards to be telecast live on NBC Sunday, January 11 at The Beverly Hilton. They join previously announced presenters Simon Baker, Drew Barrymore, Glenn Close, Sacha Baron Cohen, Aaron Eckhart, Laurence Fishburne, Ricky Gervais, Jake Gyllenhaal, Salma Hayek, Blake Lively, Jennifer Lopez, Amy Poehler and Seth Rogen.

Steven Spielberg will receive this year's Cecil B. DeMille Award from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for his "outstanding contribution to the entertainment field."

The 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards will be broadcast live on NBC at 8 p.m. (EST) and produced by Dick Clark Productions in association with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. The program will be seen in more than 160 countries worldwide and is one of the few awards ceremonies that span both television and motion picture achievements.

Once again, I have no idea what her schedule for that period of time looks like. If she's in the LA area I imagine she'll be there.

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Saturday, January 3, 2009 at 18:13 (PDT)

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Not long ago there was a thread on here about what is your favorite episode. Well, I just finished watching one if not the one of mine. The one where Jean feels her life is mundane and Lionel along with the help of Judi, Sandy and Alistair surprise her with the trip to Barbados. I especially like the end when he surprises her with a copy of the letter he wrote to her from Korea that she never got.

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Saturday, January 3, 2009 at 18:06 (PDT)

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This morning I was listening to an "oldies" station and one of the selections was Johnny Ray singing "Walking My Baby Back Home." That brought to mind one of my favorite ATGB scenes. Jean and Lionel are browsing in a record store when he finds that record, leading to a discussion of how the lyric "powder all over my vest" confused him since vest means different things in the UK and US. Jean even sings a bit of the lyrics. It was such fun, just to stop what I was doing and remember that episode, which I also love because it's our introduction to Penny.

Do any of you have this kind of experience, where something in "real life" reminds you of an ATGB scene? I can't believe I'm the only one!

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Saturday, January 3, 2009 at 16:01 (PDT)

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Joan,

Thanks for telling me how to find information about custard tarts. I searched through the entries and found one recipe that looked fairly simple. I am NOT a very good baker, but decided to make some for Christmas Eve. They came out great and were delicious. My husband and I each ate three of them! I'm anxious to serve them to my daughters tomorrow when they come for New Year's lunch.

Mary
Baton Rouge, LA USA -- Wednesday, December 31, 2008 at 22:08 (PDT)

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Bonnie, We found custard tarts at Marks and Spencer's food stores in London. They come in a pack of 4 each in the cooler section, not the frozen section.

LeeAnna
San Diego, CA USA -- Wednesday, December 31, 2008 at 15:34 (PDT)

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Mary, you have a real treat in store. Go through the archives or type in "custard tarts" in the search box on Bonnie's site. You will be amazed at the amount of time and space used as one or the other of our band of faithful viewers tried to track them down in England. Good luck!

And a very happy and prosperous New Year to all those of us who visit this site and who thank Bonnie for her work at keeping it going. Thanks, Bonnie.

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, December 30, 2008 at 18:26 (PDT)

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My daughters gave me the complete series of both ATGB and The Vicar of Dibley for Christmas. I have been watching ATGB non-stop since Christmas Day and have become addicted. I had never seen the entire series in order before and had not realized how many episodes I had missed. Seeing all the episodes in chronological order has given me insight into the characters and inside jokes that I didn't know before. I also have found out that my 23-year-old niece is a big fan of ATGB and we are planning to have an all-day marathon soon. I've noticed that Lionel mentions his custard tarts in every episode. Does anyone know if they ( or a similar product) are available here in the States?

Mary
Baton Rouge, LA USA -- Tuesday, December 30, 2008 at 14:29 (PDT)

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To the person who posted that ATGB is being taken off where they live in Nashville. They did that here with one of the PBS stations I get. I live in the NY area, and eventually they put it back on. I forget how long it was off for though. Maybe a year or more, but they did eventually bring it back, I think a few months ago now.

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Sunday, December 28, 2008 at 19:19 (PDT)

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ATGB has been shown here in Nashville, on public television very Saturday evening, but apparently will soon be replaced by another British sitcom. I HOPE this is not the case, we will really miss the Hardcastles!

No Name
Tennessee USA -- Sunday, December 28, 2008 at 10:11(PDT)

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I just read the comment about the passing of Kathy Staff of Last of the Summer Wine. While I prefer ATGB I must say that LOTSW tends to grow on one. After all, its all "feel good" comedy that most of us yearn for. Thanks for the continuation of this wonderful site.

Roger
Texas USA -- Friday, December 26, 2008 at 22:07 (PDT)

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Hi All
I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

Liz <Lizbarr@fireflyuk.net>
Midlothian, Scotland -- Wednesday, December 24, 2008 at 14:27 (PDT)

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Finty is back to get you laughing

FINTY Williams last performed on a Worcestershire stage back in 1994. Fourteen years on, the daughter of Dame Judi Dench will return to Malvern Theatres next month to make people laugh. The actress - who now has her own teenage son to bring up - is starring in the 1920s farce Tons of Money, a story of cash, class and romance. "I play a maid," said Williams. "I've played quite a few maids and we get all the good lines." Williams trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama, London, and is well known for voicing the beloved children's character Angelina Ballerina. Great comic timing has seen her perform light-hearted roles on stages across the UK. But does she long to be a more serious actress? "I often think I'd really love to go on stage, pulling my hair and wailing, but then you hear people laugh. I believe that if you can make one person who might have a really bad day sit down in a theatre and laugh, then it's worth it. "I'd love to do a musical," she said. "My training was actually in musical theatre." The week Tons of Money, also starring Christopher Timothy and Mark Curry, comes to Malvern, Williams' latest film is released. Waiting in Rhyme features poetry and will raise money for Macmillan Cancer. "What the Macmillan nurses do is quite phenomenal," she said. "I discovered that when my father (actor Michael Williams) was dying." Filming took place in Bromsgrove earlier this year and it was the second time Williams worked with Worcestershire producer Martin Nigel Davey. In this 20-minute movie she plays a pregnant woman. Tons of Money runs from Tuesday, January 13, to Saturday, January 17. For tickets call Malvern Theatres box office on 01684 892277. ****** More News about Judi Dench: Judi has more award news. Not only was she not nominated in the category Best Performance by a Human Female in the Spike TV 2008 Video Game Awards but in her role as "M" she lost out to Jenny McCarthy who played "Tonya" in Red Alert 3 in the category "Big Name in the Game Female." ****** In other, more familiar news Judi is up for another award: she will receive the Dilys Powell Award for outstanding contribution to cinema - named in honour of the distinguished film critic of the Sunday Times and Punch, who died in 1995. The award will be given by the London Critics' Circle. Broadcasters Mariella Frostrup and Paul Gambaccini will host next year's ceremony -- The 29th London CriticsÔøΩ Circle Film Awards, sponsored by First Direct, in aid of the children's charity NSPCC will take place Feb. 4, 2009 at London's Grosvenor House Hotel. ****** I neglected to mention the actresses who were nominated for a Golden Globe award in the same category with Dame Judi, so I'll fix that now: They were: Catherine Keener - AN AMERICAN CRIME, Laura Linney - JOHN ADAMS, Shirley Maclaine - COCO CHANEL, and Susan Sarandon - BERNARD AND DORIS. ****** Somewhat predictably Judi feels you should go take a walk in the woods. In other odd news: Emma Thompson was quoted as saying "I auditioned this year for Rob Marshall for Nine. I didn't bloody get the job. That bitch Judi Dench did." (She was joking). ****** Lastly, I wanted to acknowledge Margaret LaFontaine of Clearfield, KY for sending a comment and link regarding the Dilys Powell Award. I didn't post it because I already had this comment in the works, but I encourage anyone who sees something I don't to let me know about it.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, December 19, 2008 at 10:17 (PDT)

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I have been reading the comments about the new Bond film and I find it quite humorous that our local paper gave it a full page review and rated it four stars. Maybe we are like that potato farmer in Idaho Lionel was counting on to make his mini-series a success.

Linda <graylrrl@msn.com>
Johnston, IA USA -- Monday, December 15, 2008 at 11:08 (PDT)

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Hi Bonnie

A merry Christmas to you & yours, your website is a daily dose of Christmas to me! Since everyone is chipping in with another round of favorite scenes, here is my two cents...when Lionel surprises Jean with the "lost letter" found at the Imperial War Musuem and the theme music is playing in the background...I thought that is one of the best scenes Ive ever seen in any tv show!

Merry Christmas to all the ATGB faithful!

John Roy
Acushnet, MA USA -- Monday, December 15, 2008 at 6:54 (PDT)

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Bonnie,

I hope you don't mind. I know this site is about ATGB and Judi and all but I was looking at the list of other BritComs for sale on DVD that you have listed and have to bring up something I saw today on the internet. It has to do with the cast of Last of the Summer Wine. I was readinig a British paper here on the net and saw that Kathy Staff who played Nora Batty has passed away at 80 years of age after a short illness. It says she did 243 episodes her last one being this past August. I also saw that the actor who played Foggy passed away a few months ago. I don't know about the rest of you but I enjoy that show very much also. One of the pieces I read had a statement by the actor who plays Clegg that they don't know if they will do any more shows. He went on to say that if they did she will be greatly missed. She is survived by her husband and 2 children I think it said.

I do agree it won't be the same without Nora Batty around.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I must admit I've never been able to sit thru even one episode of that show. It was on here in the Las Vegas area for years and I always watched something else, so I have no idea who these people are, except that one night I was watching a retrospective on AYBS and saw that Frank Thornton (Captain Peacock) was a regular in the series. I'm sure that while I'm not familiar with the cast of Last of the Summer Wine, there are plenty of others who drop in often who are familiar with those people that you have mentioned.

We have what I think is a wonderful lineup now with Keeping Up Appearances, Are You Being Served?, As Time Goes By and Vicar of Dibley. Last night was the show in which Jean was accused of shoplifting, which contained one of my favorite scenes: the one in which Jean was trying to figure out how many people would be able to fit into her home. And the Vicar of Dibley had it's 10 Year Anniversary Show with Rachel Hunter. I enjoyed it so much that I just watched it again and am now in the middle of watching the New Year's Show, which is on the same DVD. I'm really looking forward to watching all the out-takes and then watching the one in which Geraldine gets married, which is on yet another DVD. Another of my favorites is Waiting for God, but since I do have all the episodes of these series on tape I really never lack for something to see. So no, I am not bothered if you talk about something which relates to ATGB only in the sense that it is an example of a well-known BritCom. I've learned about many others from reading my own site -- A Fine Romance is one of them.

Beth
Lakewood, NJ USA -- Sunday, December 14, 2008 at 16:50 (PDT)

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And now for something completely different: A feast of meatballs in a furniture store cafe is not the obvious choice of fare for a woman feted as one of the best actress of her generation. But apparently Dame Judi Dench, who plays M in the James Bond spy films, is somewhat partial to popping into Croydon's Ikea store to sample the Swedish delicacy. Celebrity gossip newsletter Popbitch has revealed the Oscar-winning actress has been spotted at the Purley Way shop "on occasion" as "her daughter lives nearby". It added: "Kitchen staff say she likes the meatballs." When The Advertiser approached Ikea, a spokeswoman said