From Topic 136 today: Response 305 of 309: aishling (aishling) * Wed, Aug 30, 2000 (05:13) * 1 lines Four days off-line and look what happens. Well done Karen on update of cast for Possession. Bought the book at the weekend and have not put it down. So many parts to cast. Last night's BBC News (East Midlands) reported that three days of filming had begun in Lincoln. Showed GP and AE (dark, longish hair) filming at Lincoln railway station. Today's shoot is in the University and Friday in a local pub for the 'pub brawl'.

From the column in today's Hollywood Reporter: So will we see LaBute directing the next "Die Hard" sequel? "You're safely able to write that you won't see that," he laughed. "That's the beauty of what we do. Even though it continues to be the same kind of work, you get to clean the slate. Right now I'm (in England) soaking up Victorian literature and at some point I'll be able to clean that (slate) and start off on something else. You get to take a taste of many things in the course of a career." When we spoke, LaBute was calling from London where he was about to start production on the romantic drama "Possession," starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Aaron Eckhart. "It takes place in the late 1850s and the present day," he said. "It's the story of two academics who uncover a Victorian love story that no one knew existed. We're shooting all over the London area and up in Yorkshire. It's a co-production between USA Films and Warner Bros." The film, produced by Paula Weinstein and Barry Levinson and executive produced by Stephen Pevner, is based on the novel "Possession: A Romance" by A.S. Byatt.

(Aishling) AE (dark, longish hair) good, v.good. Did he look mole-like? ;-)

What worries me is why Neil LaBute after having worked with Colin did not see fit to offer him a role in P. Even the lawyer that ends up with Roland s girlfriend would do! Did he not think much of Colin? Aishling, keep us posted, thanks! So who will play Blanche and Leonora, any news?

When did Neil LaBute work with Colin? BTW, I'm thinking now that Trevor Eve will play Fergus Wolff (he is described as being older than Maud) and Toby Stephens will play Euan, the yuppie lawyer guy (with red Porsche) that Val goes to work for.

(Karen) The film, produced by Paula Weinstein and Barry Levinson and executive produced by Stephen Pevner Is Paula related to Harvey?

Have no idea. Can't ever remember seeing that mentioned. (btw, there is an article in the Times today about Simon Russell Beale--Ev's all-time fav actor--and how some director think's he is the definitive Hamlet) ;-) And Moon, I like your suggestion about Camryn Mannheim being Leonora, but don't you think Leonora should be older?

The first of three articles from This Is Lincolnshire: Hollywood to Brayford (18 August 2000) As revealed on This Is Lincolnshire yesterday, Oscar-winning Hollywood star Gwyneth Paltrow will be in Lincoln this month to shoot scenes for her latest blockbuster movie. Here, Jacquie Pryce looks at the city location, the plot, and the star's career so far... Hollywood star Gwyneth Paltrow, who scooped the Academy Award for Best Actress last year for her role in Shakespeare in Love, will spend five days in Lincoln filming Possession, an adaptation of the 1990 romantic novel by A. S. Byatt. The city campus of the University of Lincolnshire and Humberside has been chosen as one of the key locations for shooting the modern-day scenes. University spokesman Jez Ashberry said staff were delighted that the campus would be used for filming. "A lot of the book is set in the university of Lincoln - which didn't exist when Byatt wrote it!" he said. "But when the production company came to look for an location they found out that there was actually a University of Lincoln now. "They came to look round last month and decided it was just the right kind of modern building, with views of the castle and the cathedral." Staff at the university heard that the campus was to be used as a location after a recent visit by production company London-based Possession Films. Location manager Sue Quinn said the company had been delighted to learn that it could fulfil its shooting requirements in the city. "The modern university is actually mentioned in the book as Lincoln - so we are trying to keep as true to the book as possible," she said. "Lincoln is the first location we are going to for the beginning of our shooting and we are looking forward to the visit." "We are really pleased that we can film at the university and get shots of the cathedral because that will make it clear where we are." The 140-strong film crew will be on campus from Wednesday, August 23, until Monday, September 4. Filming is expected to take place from Tuesday, August 29, until Saturday, September 2. University press officer Sam Hendley said tonnes of production equipment would start arriving at the campus next week to make sure the university provides the perfect backdrop. "Setting up the cameras and masses of other equipment, including Miss Paltrow's 55-foot trailer, will take six days," she said. "Locations for filming the scenes which will feature Miss Paltrow include the third floor of our Learning Resource Centre, the atrium in the main academic building and the two lifts." Despite the news, university staff stress that Paltrow fans and autograph hunters are likely to be disappointed. The production company will probably use a closed set, giving no opportunities for a sighting of the Oscar-winning star. Mr Ashberry said the timing of the visit would disrupt the working of the university as little as possible. "There are no students here at the moment so there should not be too much distraction, although obviously there are a lot staff still here preparing for the next semester," he said. "Our security people will have to work very hard to make sure the filming is not disturbed. "This is a very exciting time and it is great publicity for the university but we have to stress that people will not just be able to walk on to the set." This may not be the only location, however, for fans to catch a glimpse of the star. The White Hart Hotel, in Eastgate, has been approached by the production company for rooms. "We were contacted by the Possession film company and they expressed an interest in accommodation," hotel manager Tim Hooton said. "It would be fair to say that we have not been told any names of who will be staying here. But they asked for our most significant and quality bedrooms for a five-night stay in September. "We do have a history of stars staying here." On Page 430 of the book, the main characters go to the bar in the White Hart on their first outing as a couple. The plot of Possession, set partly in the present and partly in Victorian England, tells the story of two modern-day academics who discover a secret romantic link connecting the poets they are studying. Rumours suggest that Paltrow has been offered $5 million to star in the film, in which she will play literary scholar Maud Bailey. She is said to be "delighted" at the role. A number of top Hollywood names are in negotiation for the other main roles in the film, but no official signings have yet been announced. In the director's chair will be Neil LaBute, who has previously directed the controversial films In The Company Of Men and Your Friends And Neighbors. He also directed the forthcoming release Nurse Betty, which recently caused a stir at Cannes. The film of Possession is expected to be released in America by Warner Brothers in the autumn of 2001.

When did Neil LaBute work with Colin? In my dreams of course, just pulling a butterball. ;-) (Karen), And Moon, I like your suggestion about Camryn Mannheim being Leonora, but don't you think Leonora should be older? She looks old to me and she will certainly look old next to Gwynnie. Toby Stephens will play Euan, This works for me. Who will play Val? I always felt that Roland and Ash should have some physical similarities as well as Val and Blanche and Maud and Cristabel. I guess that is not going to happen. Simon Russell Beale--Ev's all-time fav actor-- I do not remember what he looks like. Refresh my memory, please.

I still like Kathy Bates as Leonora. Tara Fitzgerald as Val. can picture her.

I think (it just hit me) that Robson Green would've been a good Roland.

(Moon) I always felt that Roland and Ash should have some physical similarities as well as Val and Blanche and Maud and Cristabel. For R&A and M&C, there will be the important similarity, although I've never bought off entirely on the third leg of the triangle (Blanche, Val, Ellen and Leonora).

Laura, I hope you were joking about RG!!!

That goes for me too Laura. (Karen), For R&A and M&C, there will be the important similarity, I am all ears and eyes. Please continue.

(Karen)Simon Russell Beale--Ev's all-time fav actor-- (Moon)I do not remember what he looks like. Refresh my memory, please. Pl. don't bother.He's not handsome at all....and he can't act.I don't care how many Oliviers he wins!!I saw him in Summerfolk last November...all he did was rant around the stage shouting "Vanya, Vanya[JE]". ~~~~~~~ Have just really started P. but can picture Toby Stephens and Tara F. as Euan and Val.Can't picture Trevor Eve.But which Hollywood star will play Mortimer Cropper? ~~~~~~~ Thanks Aishling for all the updates on filming. Isn't this in your neck of the woods???

PLEASE, no *In Defense* of Robson Green here. We all know he can't act and there isn't one iota of physical similarity between him and the character of Roland. I saw on another board that someone had initially thought of Ben Chaplin for the role. That would've worked for me. Re: other characters' physical similarities When more people have finished book. I hate to ruin anything as it relates to the plot. Please note this, Laura.

(Ann) I hope you were joking about RG!!! Ann, you don't have to worry on 2 counts. First, the character of Roland would never appear with Christabel (JE) because he's present day and she's Victorian. Second, this is a major film production and RG is a British Television actor and I use that term loosely. ;-D

(Evelyn) Can't picture Trevor Eve Try this: Through my searching, have found out that he played Andrew, the ex-husband in the Taster's Choice commercials (and is married to Sharon Maughan IRL) and this is his second Byatt production. Was also lead in the Politician's Wife.

I knew that TE was in Taster's Choice commercials. Oh, I'll take note. RG was joke. TF would be good.

(Karen) and is married to Sharon Maughan IRL (Trevor Eve) Hmmm, didn't know that. I saw him at the Donmar sitting with Jane Leeves from Frasier. He looked good in a fisherman's knit sweater. *sigh* That might have been the night of the cast party, because HBC was there, as was Ciaran Hinds.

Karen, I have ordered "P" from the library (very small library here) but I was wondering if you would just give me a clue as to how big a role Christabel is, without giving anything away). I realise Maud and Roland are the main stars but how much of the book does Christabel and Ash appear in.(sorry about the grammar but you know what I mean) I am very intrigued with the romance between Ash & Christabel, do they appear for half of the book for instance?

(Karen)Re: Trevor Eve....he played Andrew, the ex-husband in the Taster's Choice commercials (and is married to Sharon Maughan IRL) I lead a shltered life....don't know who Sharon Maughan is...and didn't realize people actually knew the actors in commercials. TE is v. handsome;Wolf Fergus, you say, uh? [Though Tom Conti and Jennifer did a series for Vauxhall cars...] Thanks for the sleuthing, Karen. You know, I like to think they contacted Colin for Ash, but he already had made a commitment to SB for "Armadillo"...and being the loyal friend that he is, he couldn't back out... upcomingfilms.com says Anne Massey is also in the cast. Wonder what house they will use for Seal Court...and if they'll film in Richmond, Surrey for Christabel's home. Can feel an expedition on "Possession" locations is in my future:-)

(Ann) I am very intrigued with the romance between Ash & Christabel, do they appear for half of the book for instance? It's hard to gauge. Ash and Christabel and NOT small parts. The book goes back and forth between present day and the past, but it's not equal (50-50). Also, the past sections will only have short bits with C&A; they are actually apart for most. You will like that there's an important part with Jennifer alone that would be set in Brittany.

(Moon) Simon Russell Beale--Ev's all-time fav actor-- I do not remember what he looks like. Refresh my memory, please. You asked for it... Here is Simon as Hamlet. By the way, I posted this a while back on 132, but you were out and about at the time... Here is David Leveaux.

Wow!! The resemblance to the prince of Denmark is amazing. Did he go to continuing adult ed at night?

Tee hee, can you imagine sitting through 3 hours of him?

Am sure he is finest living actor, at least that's what I keep reading in the newspapers. Has he done any Accuvue commercials?

(Karen) Has he done any Accuvue commercials? He's being considered for Beano.

Didn't he play Napoleon in Blackadder B&F? Am counting the words to see who had more, CF or SRB. Definitely more pics of CF in book than SRB.

Donna! Thank you so much for DL. I have put this pix in memory. Now where I can meet him? ;-))

From The Hollywood Reporter today: Northam, Ehle in 'Possession' of LaBute film (Thurs., Aug. 31, 2000) By Cathy Dunkley Jeremy Northam and Jennifer Ehle have joined Gwyneth Paltrow and Aaron Eckhart in USA Films/Warner Bros.' co-production "Possession" for director Neil LaBute. The project is slated to begin shooting this week in London. "Possession" is an adaptation of A.S. Byatt's 1990 novel of the same name about a pair of literary sleuths who unearth the amorous secret of two Victorian poets only to find themselves falling under a passionate spell. USA Films is slated to release "Possession" domestically, with Warner Bros.Pictures handling international rights. LaBute revised Laura Jones' screen adaptation of "Possession," which has Paltrow as an English academic researching the life of poet Christabel LaMotte (Ehle). Eckhart plays an upstart American scholar in London on a fellowship to study Randolph Henry Ash (Northam). Toby Stephens also joins a cast rounded out by Anna Massey, Graham Cowden, Trevor Eve, Tom Hollander and Tom Hickey. Paula Weinstein and Barry Levinson are producing with David Barron executive producing. Northam's most recent credits include "The Golden Bowl," "Happy, Texas," "An Ideal Husband" and "The Winslow Boy." Repped by ICM, Northam will next be seen with Dougray Scott and Kate Winslet in Intermedia's "Enigma." Ehle, who recently won a Tony Award for her performance in "The Real Thing," stars on screen in Istvan Szabo's "Sunshine" for Paramount Classics. The actress, repped by WMA and London agent Sally Long Innes, also starred in the 1995 miniseries "Pride and Prejudice" and last year's indie feature "This Year's Love." Stephens, repped by ICM, most recently was featured in "Space Cowboys," "Onegin" and "Cousin Bette." *************** All sorts of NEW information: -Roland is now an American -Others in supporting cast: Graham Cowden, Tom Hollander and Tom Hickey

If Roland is an Am. there will not be such a contrast between him and Mortimer C. This is a bad move, IMO. Roland had to be British. There are supposed to be only two Americans, this stinks of Hollywood. Nice to see JNs next project already lined up. ;-)

(Moon) Nice to see JNs next project already lined up. ;-) You mean Enigma? That's in the can already. there will not be such a contrast between him and Mortimer C Sure there will. They are very different character types. As Aishling reported, AE looked kind of grungy. MC is a fastidious pseudo-Anglophile.

.... The actress, repped by WMA and London agent Sally Long Innes, WMA must be her US agent...[since when?].London agent is ICM.WMA must be Wm Morris Agency.Hmmmm..... Tom Hollander again? The guy is in everything...Who will he be...James Blackadder?[I always enjoy this "useless"casting that we do...It was great fun in BJD.]

Am clueless as to Tom Hollander's role. Maybe he's Euan? Ack! When are all the other women's parts to be announced? I mean, this is Byatt! The women are more important. There are even parts for French actresses in this. Have to go look up those other guys. Could be that Blackadder and Cropper will be played by those. Here are two more items from the local Lincolnshire press: Work with star appeal (8/22/00) by Jacquie Pryce Eighty aspiring actors have a one-off chance to star alongside top Hollywood actress Gwyneth Paltrow. Extras are needed for the Oscar-winning actress's new film and the people of Lincolnshire have been invited to come forward. As reported on This Is Lincolnshire last week, Miss Paltrow will be in Lincoln for five days at the end of this month to film scenes for her new movie Possession. The Lincoln scenes are set on the Brayford campus of the University of Lincolnshire and Humberside--and the film company is looking for extras to play students and lecturers. University spokesman Jez Ashberry said it was a chance to work right alongside the Oscar-winning star. "They are looking for 70 people to play students and 10 people of either sex to be lecturers and they will actually be on set with Gwyneth in her scenes," he said. "The scenes will be mostly on campus and one scene is in the pub." Extras are needed for Wednesday, August 30, Thursday, August 31, and Friday, September 1, and will be paid �50 a day. [...] Aaron Eckhart to join Gwyneth Paltrow in blockbuster (8/24/00) by Jacquie Pryce The name of the actor who will star opposite Gwyneth Paltrow when she shoots her new film in Lincoln has been announced. Aaron Eckhart, who starred opposite Julia Roberts in her latest blockbuster Erin Brockovich, will be the other name to shoot scenes at the Lincoln campus of the University of Lincolnshire and Humberside. As reported on This Is Lincolnshire, a 140-strong film crew will arrive in Lincoln on Tuesday to film scenes for an adaptation of A. S. Byatt's Booker Prize-winning novel Possession. The Lincoln scenes, which will involve a crowd of local extras, should take five days to complete. Eckhart will play Roland Mitchell, an academic researching the life and work of a Victorian poet. Miss Paltrow will play Lincoln-based academic Maud Bailey and the two discover a romantic link between their Victorian poets which is soon mirrored in the modern-day. Possession will be the fourth film Aaron Eckhart has made with director Neil LaBute--he has already appeared in In the Company of Men, Your Friends and Neighbors and Nurse Betty. Possession Films Limited, who are producing the film for Warner Brothers, should announce the casting for the Victorian characters in the next week.

(Karen) Did he look mole-like? ;-) We only saw AE for a split second as GP was standing directly in front of him. I thought his hair might be longish because, in that brief moment, it looked as though it was tied back. But....... (Evelyn) Isn't this in your neck of the woods??? Well - it's a couple of counties away but a little nearer to me than you. I would consider visiting for other cast members. I can pick up their local tv station though so will keep watching.

Picture of GP filming:

My question is, "Where's her headscarf?" :-(

(Moon),there will not be such a contrast between him and Mortimer C (Karen), Sure there will. They are very different character types. As Aishling reported, AE looked kind of grungy. MC is a fastidious pseudo-Anglophile. I did not mean physically, that is v. obvious. Roland needs to be British and poor and confused. Here comes this American exchange PA with his American sensibilities. It does not work!

Roland needs to be British and poor and confused. Here comes this American exchange PA with his American sensibilities. Am only half-way through the book, but American PA's don't all have to be rich and loud-mouth blow-hards. Possession will be the fourth film Aaron Eckhart has made with director Neil LaBute Lucky Aaron. Looks like NLB is out to make AE a super-star. That's what ODB needs.. a director who has enough faith in him to give him a starring role even though he doesn't have star-wattage. Cute pic of Gwynnie.She looks like Maud to me.The great thing about reading the book now is that I have no pre-conceived ideas of the characters...I picture them as the cast is announced!

(Moon) I did not mean physically, that is v. obvious. Neither did I. There will be a huge difference in their characters; in fact, are quite the opposites. Face it, hon, a wimp is a wimp is a wimp. ;-) My only concern would be that Roland is very much in awe of Maud because of that *class* thing. He is content to be in her shadow. She's the academic with the credentials and he's a doormat. If they totally ignore that class thing, it won't suffer all that much IMO. Info from the IMDB; one of these guys has to be Blackadder. Graham Crowden was born in 1922 in Scotland. Was most recently an Elderly Elf in TV's the 10th Kingdom, but has been in lots of TV and films, especially "Waiting for God" on TV: Tom Hickey is another older actor (no date or place of birth given, although he's in a lot of Irish parts), with his credits listed back to the 1960s. Was in Butcher Boy, An Awfully Big Adventure, and Circle of Friends. Lot of priest roles...hmmm Picture of Tom Hickey in Royal Court production of "On Raftery's Hill":

(Evelyn) Cute pic of Gwynnie. She looks like Maud to me. That's why you didn't hear any squawking from me when it was announced. ;-)

Possession: No spoiler, just a first description of Maud. Gwynnie all the way to me...hope she keeps the wrapped scarf! "She was dressed with unusual coherence for an academic, Roland thought, rejecting several other ways of describing her green and white length, a long pine green tunic over a pine green skirt, a white silk shirt inside the tunic, and long softly white stockings inside long shining green shoes. Through the stockings, veiled flesh diffused a pink gold, almost. He could not see her hair, which was wound tightly into a turban of peacock-feathered painted silk, low on her brow. Her brows and lashes were blonde. He observed so much. She had a clean milky skin, unpainted lips, clear-cut features, largely composed. She did not smile." Karen, do you think Toby Stephens will be Wolff, instead of Trevor Eve? Eve seems a bit long in the tooth for Tobias.

Murph, I think I posted a few back that I changed my mind and that Trevor Eve might be Fergus Wolff and Toby Shephens would be Euan....but maybe Tom Hollander is...or TH could be Euan's friend (need to put that Butterball book firmly down and pick up Possession again). Ack! Why don't they give the characters' names in those press releases.

How come TS and JN. have done so many films recently, when Colin has done only one and that is RZ's film. I really don't understand it, what is his Agent doing, he is every bit as good as TS & JN. It is so hard being a CF fan, because even when he does finish something we have to wait and wait to see it. Even his brother's latest TV drama has been highlighted in this week's Heat magazine (A Likeness in Stone for the BBC) and is scheduled for mid-September. Needless to say no mention of DQ.

"Ehle to join Paltrow in Possesion" reports Teletext today, it is certainly getting a lot of early publicity.

Also on Ceefax (BBC)

Let's see, where did I leave off... City pub's brush with Hollywood (8/2900) Film fever has swept the city ever since it was announced that Gwyneth Paltrow would arrive in Lincoln today to begin shooting scenes for her new romantic film, Possession. But it's not all fun on the film set. Jacquie Pryce and Wendy Inkster talk to a man with Hollywood experience who missed this chance and staff who find a brush with fame not all it's cracked up to be... Hollywood arrives in Lincoln today--but for one business it's a brush with fame they could do without. Staff at the Hogshead pub, at Brayford Marina, were horrified to hear that the descending crew arriving in town to film Possession, starring Gwyneth Paltrow, were thinking of changing the colour of their pub for the shoot. Manager Rebecca Linney said the rumour was that the white exterior had been judged "too bright" for the view from the University of Lincolnshire and Humberside's learning and resource centre, where scenes with Gwyneth will be filmed. "We heard that they wanted to paint the outside of the pub but no-one from the production company has approached us," she said. "Our brewers, Whitbread, also knows nothing about it. Perhaps they think they are too important to have to get permission. "It would cost a fortune to repaint it all and then put it back again. But we don't care how much money they've got, it still wouldn't be enough for us to repaint the pub." The 140-strong film crew arrives in Lincoln today for five days of filming at the university's Lincoln campus. University spokesman Jez Ashberry said he had also heard of the painting plans. "The crew came out for a site visit a few months ago and were looking around all the locations for filming," he said. "Shortly after, we heard that they wanted to paint the Hogshead because it was too white and was quite noticeable in the view from the learning and resource centre." Miss Linney said the production team might arrive to a bit of a shock. "The funny thing is that we actually closed on Sunday for two and half weeks of refurbishment," she said. "We will be keeping the outside walls white but we will be having some minor structural work done right in the middle of their film set! "I must admit I'm tempted to paint the pub bright pink myself and see what they say about that! "But I hope they don't all turn up with their paint brushes because they'll find it all shut up." However, what could have been a decorating disaster might be all white on the night. Possession Films Limited location manager Sue Quinn said the pub would stay white after all. "Our production team has visited the site and it may have been discussed," she said. "But the pub is fine--we will not be painting it." The scenes that will feature Miss Paltrow include a pub scene, although it has not yet been announced if the nearby Adam and Eve pub in Lindum Road will be used or a special set built. Eighty local people have been hired as extras for this scene and others in the university during the week. The star now arriving...(8/30/00) by Emma Snedden Hollywood fever hit Lincoln yesterday as Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow began shooting her new movie in the city. Crowds gathered at Lincoln Central railway station hoping to catch a glimpse of the superstar as she began the first of five days filming. Miss Paltrow is staring alongside Aaron Eckhart in the latest Neil LaBute movie, Possession. Central Trains spokesman Garard Burgess said: "We have a lot of stations from different periods in history and it's great that Lincoln had the right look for this film. "Often when a landmark 'star' is in a film, it can be great news for tourism in that city and so I hope Lincoln will benefit even further from this. "Plus, it's exciting for the city to have such a big name pay a visit." Superstar on campus (8/31/00 by Echo Reporter The University of Lincolnshire and Humberside was buzzing with excitement yesterday as Hollywood actress Gwyneth Paltrow began shooting her new movie on campus. Miss Paltrow and her 140-strong crew arrived in Lincoln on Tuesday and began work by filming several scenes at the city's Central Station. The team has now set up shop at ULH for three days to continue filming Possession. The university and the station make up a total of 43 locations in the country to be featured in the film. Although tight security stops members of the public catching a glimpse of the Oscar-winning star, ULH press officer Sam Hendley said everyone on campus was keeping their eyes peeled for a chance sighting. She said: "If you sit in the canteen you can just about make out what is going on the ground. "Everyone is really excited and it seems as if the cast and crew are all really busy. "We have been looking forward to them coming since we found out about the filming and its really interesting to watch everyone at work." Sam said watching the crew at work made you realise exactly how much effort goes into making a film of such calibre. "We watched them film one scene over and over again and it took the best part of an hour before they moved on, she added. "It must get so tedious for everyone involved, particularly the extras who looked as if they were starting to flag a bit by the end of the day. "I never realised how hard everyone worked on a film set, and Gwyneth still looks as lovely as she does on film." Along with the cast and crew are hordes of trailers parked around the campus containing everything the team need to get through the week. "You can see Gwyneth popping in and out of vans getting her make up done and having dinner," she added. "It is staggering how much equipment is needed to produce a film." In addition to the lead actors, 80 men and women from Lincolnshire have been invited to star as extras in the film. Among them is ULH marketing manager Jez Ashberry, who plays a college tutor. "I have had a wonderful day," he said. "It's really exciting, if a little tiring. I haven't met Gwyneth or Aaron yet. "It is a bit difficult to speak to them, but it would be great if we did get a chance at some point. I'm glad I took part. It's been really good." The film is due to be released in America in October next year and is expected to arrive in England in January 2002.

(Moon), Roland needs to be British and poor and confused. Here comes this American exchange PA with his American sensibilities. (Evelyn), Am only half-way through the book, but American PA's don't all have to be rich and loud-mouth blow-hards. I will add that to my list of American sensibilities. ;-) In my experience, there has always been a great difference between American professors and British ones. I do not see Roland as an American and what Karen stated about their class difference is important as well. (Karen), Face it, hon, a wimp is a wimp is a wimp. ;-) Hey, but he gets the girl in the end. :-) Plus three job offers. Graham Crowden would make a good Sir Bailey. Tom Hickey should be Prof. Blackadder. Those would work for me. Thanks for all the news, Karen.

(Moon) Graham Crowden would make a good Sir Bailey. Tom Hickey should be Prof. Blackadder. Good casting. I concur. :-) (tut tut--spoilers) Today's report from the university's marketing officer, who was an extra: (am leaving out the bits about how they kept looking out the window) Extra special day (9/1/00) We were all put into position. Some extras had to pretend to be reading books, some were wandering around the library shelves. I was sat down pretending to read a book and take some notes. We had all the props, like books and pens, all around us and we ran through it a few times with Gwyneth stand-ins to make sure the light and everything was right. Then the stars came up--Gwyneth Paltrow and Aaron Eckhart--and we started filming about 9.30am. Gwyneth was wearing a long cream coat with a skirt and boots and carrying a bag. She also did a few strange facial exercises with her voice coach before we started and she was doing quite a good English accent. I managed to keep looking at her until right before the camera was on me and I was trying my hardest to make sure I was in the background of the shot. I have to say that she fluffed her lines twice and Aaron Eckhart kept walking in the wrong direction, which gave us all a good laugh. We did the same scene, with her walking down the library, about 15 times. But it wasn't boring because each take was a bit different. We didn't finish filming it until 11.30am and then we just waited around to be called for the next library scene. I thought there would be hundreds of screaming fans trying to get on the campus, but there have only been a few people hanging around. Gwyneth seemed really nice. There was one scene in the main building where she had to walk down a staircase above the canteen. There were loads of people in there eating and the crew had to keep asking us to stop eating for a moment because it was making too much noise. But they did the scene so many times that Gwyneth eventually turned round and mouthed "I'm sorry!" at us. I thought that was really nice of her. And she's under so much scrutiny here all the time. Let's face it, with all us lot on set, nothing is going to get past us!

Oh Karen...thanks for the "you are there" reports...I can't wait for the canteen scene in the movie....Like the churling scene in MLSF...Remember how your contact told us about it? When I saw the film, I looked for him... The film is due to be released in America in October next year and is expected to arrive in England in January 2002. Can't decide whether this is good or not. UK reviewers usually like Gwynnie and Jennifer...I'm afraid our reviewers will find the story "schmaltzy" unless it's v. well done.On the other hand Byatt is a UK author and most UK reviewers will probably have read her book and comment on the differences and won't like it. Our reviewers don't read books.... Ohgawd....I'm getting like Bethan!! Moon) Graham Crowden would make a good Sir Bailey. Tom Hickey should be Prof. Blackadder. (Karen) ...I concur Ditto. Toby Stephens has to be Euan...he has the panache.

San Jose State University has a site for Possession, in which they've created Annotations for the novel. You might want to check it out. Basically gives you dictionary type explanations for many of the historical, mythological and literary references, as well as translates foreign words. Saves time looking things up, but thankfully doesn't tell *what* all those things necessarily mean - just what they are. ;-D http://www.sjsu.edu/depts/jwss.old/possession/fr-annot.html There's also a link to study questions created by the publisher: http://www.randomhouse.com/vintage/read/possession/

Anything will help me...Thanks Karen. I must admit I'm a dunce with modern poetry. It certainly enhances the enjoyment of this work if one can decipher what the poems are about. But the story is enough for me right now...I'll get around to the poems later.No one will want to borrow this book from me...I have it all marked up!!

Evelyn, when I first heard of Possession, I was told to skip over the poetry and just read the story, then read the poetry. When I think back, it was a good idea. The poetry in itself is separate, but yet whole. (It's late). Keep plugging along with the book, it really is a wonderful story.

I just finished Possession yesterday and I have to say it is one of the best books I have ever read.I could not put this book down, something that rarely happens. I also did not really understand the poetry but the story was captivating. I plan on going back to see if I can make sense of some of the poetry now that I know how Christabel and Ash's story unfolds. As for casting, Gwenyth will make a perfect Maud, Jeremy a perfect Ash, Jennifer a perfect Christabel. I am not sure about AE. I don't know his work too well and he looks so different for each part. I sort of picture a young William Hurt as Roland,very academic-looking. At least he will not be faking an English accent which if it is not done well, is very annoying and distracting. I am just grateful that the other bumbling,academicish English actor with the blinking problem did not get cast. Can you imagine Hugh Grant (who seems to get many more roles than he deserves) as Roland. It is a horror not to be contemplated. Thanks Karen for the links. Evelyn is not the only one who needs all the help she can get. I am sure I need much more help than most. I was always better at math than the language arts. I look forward to discussing the book when more people have read it.

Congrats, Sue! I'm betting that Ev finished it last night too. Nice to see that many are as enthralled by it as I was 10 years ago. Going back over the poetry afterwards is a good idea. Essentially, what it does is provide clues as to what was really going on with Ash and LaMotte and that had been misinterpreted by subsequent readers and academics. Byatt has been called a "bookworm's" dream author. Just yesterday, I set off in search the meaning behind Fergus and have hit paydirt. It's such fun, but not necessary to your enjoyment of the book. It can be enjoyed on so many levels, and the movie will only be the basic plotline. There's no way all this hidden meaning can be carried over onto film, but that's OK.

I'm betting that Ev finished it last night too. I did, I did...(and I didn't even peak at the ending beforehand, Karen;-) I'm glad I was reading the ending at home..had done a lot of it in airports and on planes...would have been embarassing...tears flowed.... Am eager for others to finish it...I have questions...

I guess I'm bringing up the rear here. More than halfway through (the poetry, too!;-). Very compelling book. Can absolutely see the 4 leads in these roles. Great fun to have the casting in mind as you read it. Colin couldn't have been Roland anyway--Roland is 29 and "a compact man," shorter than Maud. I could see him as Ash, though.

I chose to disregard the height issue; decided it wasn't important. ;-D

From Empire: Paltrow Possession Pics 04/09/2000 Principal photography began last week on Possession and Empire Online managed to get our hands on some pictures of Gwyneth Paltrow on the set in Lincoln. The film, directed by Neil LaBute, began filming on location at the University of Lincoln and Humberside's campus last week, with a cast that includes Aaron Eckhart, Jennifer Ehle, Toby Stephens and Tom Hollander. Once again, Paltrow puts on a British accent to play Maud, an academic who falls in love with an American scholar, played by Aaron Eckhart. Gwyneth is expected to be filming for the next 11 weeks in Shepperton and at various locations in Yorkshire.

I too finished this great book. I also found it easier to get the gist of the story first and will go back to the poetry. (Mari) Great fun to have the casting in mind as you read it. Isn't it just. (Evelyn) ...tears flowed Mine too. Thanks for the links Karen.

Couldn't put it down and finished it at 3 a.m. Beautiful book; looking forward to discussing it with you all. What a wonderful role for JE--the best in the book, IMO.

(Mari) What a wonderful role for JE--the best in the book, IMO. Quite! The mystery of Christabel really IS the story, even though Maud and Roland will have more screen time. And speaking of time, boy, did you finish it in record time. Didn't you say you were only halfway through yesterday! Should we rename you Evelyn Wood? ;-D I started rereading last night, but I go slowly, savoring every detail and picking up on new things each and every time.

I reread "Possession" at the beginning of the year. It still manages to enthrall me. All of those characters are interesting and you really want to know about them. When I first read the book, I didn't care for Christabel at all. She drove me nuts. And Ash with his bugs and nature (reminiscent of "Angels and Insects"!), at first I thought they were two boring people in Victorian England. But as I've read it about 4 times know, I realize how wrong I was!!!! I'm glad all the new readers are enjoying it. This novel really is a treat to read. A feast for all the senses!

(Mari) What a wonderful role for JE--the best in the book, IMO. (Karen)Quite! The mystery of Christabel really IS the story, even though Maud and Roland will have more screen time. I hope they don't just"cameo" Christabel and Ash...and feature Maud and Roland. The pics on the set....publicity is already starting! Gwynnie *is* Maud. ..."Gwyneth is expected to be filming for the next 11 weeks in Shepperton and at various locations in Yorkshire." That brings the shoot to December. Wonder when filming of Jennifer and JN will kick in. She starts rehearsals for the Noel Coward play in NY in January.

O have been listening to Colin in the car playing Rupert Brooke and I think he would have been excellent as Ash, oh hum.

"I have" oh what a terrible sentence but you get my drift,I hope.

(Evelyn), I hope they don't just"cameo" Christabel and Ash...and feature Maud and Roland. What a thought! Of course, it would be typical of the Hollywood machine to do just that. They never read the book. :-( How many of us have read the book? Sadie are you done? I too cried at the end and I confess to re-reading Ash's visit with May many times. I love that part.

(Karen) Didn't you say you were only halfway through yesterday! Should we rename you Evelyn Wood? ;-D Hee hee. I *do* come racing around those paragraphs at about 100 mph.:-) Once Christabel and Ash were on that train to Yorkshire, I was off to the races! Great stuff. Love when he tells her I hope you won't regret this, and she says, don't talk nonsense, of course I'll regret it! Oops, no spoilers . . . Moon, don't fret. If they were going to crank this out of the Hollywood "machine," they wouldn't have hired LaBute. He's one of our least conventional filmmakers.

(Mari) If they were going to crank this out of the Hollywood "machine," they wouldn't have hired LaBute. Didn't one of the articles say that there were 3 attempts to bring this to the screen? Wonder who the other directors were. I still have huge qualms about this production and the director. NLB has no track record for this kind of major production and there's nothing in his past repertoire to suggest he has the vision and understanding of the subject matter. BTW, I emailed one of the reporters in Lincolnshire and she said they have all left. Was trying to find out if any of the other actors was in town for the pub scene. Then we'd know who was playing Euan and Val. But, alas, no. However, she said she'd email me if they returned to the area.

Hello all, I'm new to this board. Found my way from the Ehlenews site. Thanks for the link Evelyn. I am also reading Possession and look forward to further discussions on the book and movie. I can't wait for the movie to come out. My only worry is that JE character Christabel will be much reduced for the movie. I agree with others that her character is the best in the book. Michelle

(since Moon's been talking about doing some psychedelic stuff later this week... Michelle Glad you've joined us. You'll find any and all news posted here and I expect we might want to start the discussion *after* our Colin birthday bash. No really hurry, as they've just started filming. Also, don't want to pressure anyone. Like I said before, this is a book to be savored over and over again.

Karen, what kind of spinster is Christabel, primne and proper or a kind of femme fatale? sp?

Christabel, by all accounts, seems like a prim and proper spinster, but has many, many, many secrets.... don't want to give away too many spoilers!

Just wondering, what sort of spoilers can we give??? If I had a spoiler, should I forewarn, then say scroll down like this??? S P O I L E R S Then add the spoiler? Is that acceptable? I just don't want to give anything away. Because AnnW's question, is just brimming with spoiler info....

Ann, I would say she is neither and both. Pale and passionate, a condtradictory woman. I can't see how Christabel can be a cameo. She is the story. Roland and Maud were not half as interesting. I hope the first we see C&A is in the train scene and the previous letter writing is done in voiceover. I think it would be great to have Rosemary Harris as the old Christabel-the witch in the turret.

Welcome to our merry group, Michelle! Karen! You must be in charge of decorations. Is there anyway to change the backgraound colour of the page. I noticed that Marcia did it. :-) (Mari), Once Christabel and Ash were on that train to Yorkshire, I was off to the races! It was a slow starter for me too. The train does get it moving. ;-)))

Sue, loved the RH idea. Perfect! But we do not know if they will include that scene. It would be great to get a copy of the script.

Thanks Laura, Sue and everyone. I am afraid I am going to be a bit behind the Library still does not have the book!! but please discuss I will not peep!!

No spoilers, Laura, not even with the scroll down stuff yet. (Sue) Roland and Maud were not half as interesting Ah...but they are IMO. It *could* be that you were reading it with a little bias toward one character. Lemme think! Now why might that be? ;-D I hope the first we see C&A is in the train scene and the previous letter writing is done in voiceover. Sue, you have incredible artistic taste. What a coincidence. The woman who led the previous discussion was a theatre person and she imagined a very similar beginning to the movie (not the letter writing read in VO, but the train). Sorry, Moon, I don't know how to change the background of Drool pages.

Regarding starting the discussion: There probably are others (will check with Eileen) who haven't inhaled the book yet. Possibly others from the Ehle list.

RE: first sighting of Christabel amd Ash-- they do met at Crabb's house early on. I can picture a scene in which there is very strong--but repressed--mutual attraction. The type of scene in which Andrew Davies might have written one of his famous stage directions ("Darcy has an erection.") Hee hee . . .

Have just got the book from them library, but I am a very slow reader so don't wait for me but I would just like to to know is Christabel plain or attractive and I believe I read the Ash is older than Christabel, by how much. I know I am about to start reading it but I would really like to know. Is JE not too pretty to play Christabel? Have not been cheating honest, well just a little bit.

Have just got the book from them library, but I am a very slow reader so don't wait for me but I would just like to to know is Christabel plain or attractive and I believe I read the Ash is older than Christabel, by how much. I know I am about to start reading it but I would really like to know. Is JE not too pretty to play Christabel? Have not been cheating honest, well just a little bit.

She had big teeth. ;-D CLM was 33 when she met RHA, who was 44. Now, stop cheating and read, even if slowly. There's no race.

Okay Karen, it's just that from the little I have read JE does not seem to be right pysically and lookswise!!

One last question Karen and then I won't asking any more until I have finished. Did you like Christable and Ash?

Both are blonde and moon-faced. Otherwise, JE's probably larger than CLM, but doesn't appear that LaBute and the casting director care. Last I looked, Aaron Eckhart wasn't a "compact" man. Don't think Gwynnie will tower over him. Did I like them? Hmmm, never thought about that much. Wanted to kick both of them...quite often. ;-)

Thanks everyone for the welcome. I am now halfway thru the book. I have a question which has probably already been discussed but I haven't been thru all of the old posts so forgive me if it has. I had read that Ralph Fiennes was to be in this movie but for some reason he is not. Do you think he would make a better Ash than JN? Now I do like JN, I saw him in "Emma" and "The Winslow Boy " and he is very good and very attractive. I just think RF is a more intense actor and he seems to fit the part better. I also think him and JE would be better together. Who knows maybe it's because I haven't seen much of JN's work. I do think that JE tends to make all her leading men look better. Michelle

We didn't talk about the RF thing on this topic, Michelle. It was in the news before and there was some talk on Odds and Ends, but at that time only a few of us were familiar with the book. My opinion about RF is that he was never right for the role. Besides, if RF did take the role, I doubt Jennifer would've been cast. (them's the facts) When I first read the book long ago, Daniel Day-Lewis was my choice for Ash. However, JN is much better suited and the way he was in Emma and TWB should lay a perfect groundwork for the character.

As much as I like JN, I do think RF would have made a better Ash. JN would have made a good Roland. I like GP as Maud and I honestly had not pictured JE as Christabel. I had pictured Cate Blanchette as Christabel.

For once we disagree, Karen. ;-))))

It's OK. After my initial preference for Joely Richardson (ages ago) as Maud, I came up with Uma Thurman about 3 years ago. You can't get much taller or icier than she...but alas and alack, she cannot act. ;-D

Karen, why do you doubt that JE would have been cast if RF has played Ash, I thought they were very good together in Sunshine, as Michelle says JE brings out the best in her co-stars and she made RF less distant and cold, more human.

Because they were just seen together. Has nothing to do with how well they worked together.

If repeat casting weren't an issue, then, GP would be partnering with Joe Fiennes as Roland... don't get much darker or furrier. ;-D

and maybe that is why CF is not partnering Jennifer, I know it was 5 yhears ago, but they are bound together ad Darcy & Lizzie.

Yes, there's even less likelihood that Colin and Jenn will appear professionally in anything together.

No one has ever said that about Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. I most respectfully disagree.