Carl Davis, the composer known for his BAFTA-winning score for “The French Lieutenant’s Woman” (1981), died of a brain hemorrhage on Thursday. He was 86.
Davis’ family issued a statement on social media, writing: “We are so proud that Carl’s legacy will be his astonishing impact on music. A consummate all-round musician, he was the driving force behind the reinvention of the silent movie for this generation and he wrote scores for some of the most loved and remembered British television dramas.”
Born in New York, Davis co-authored revue “Diversions” (1959), which won an off-Broadway Emmy and featured at the 1961 Edinburgh Festival. Davis moved to the U.K. in 1961 and was commissioned by the BBC to compose music for “That Was the Week That Was.” Subsequent work included BBC’s anthology play series “The Wednesday Play” (1964-70) and “Play for Today” (1970-84).
Davis then composed for several iconic British television shows, including...
Davis’ family issued a statement on social media, writing: “We are so proud that Carl’s legacy will be his astonishing impact on music. A consummate all-round musician, he was the driving force behind the reinvention of the silent movie for this generation and he wrote scores for some of the most loved and remembered British television dramas.”
Born in New York, Davis co-authored revue “Diversions” (1959), which won an off-Broadway Emmy and featured at the 1961 Edinburgh Festival. Davis moved to the U.K. in 1961 and was commissioned by the BBC to compose music for “That Was the Week That Was.” Subsequent work included BBC’s anthology play series “The Wednesday Play” (1964-70) and “Play for Today” (1970-84).
Davis then composed for several iconic British television shows, including...
- 8/3/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
In the late 1970s, David Lynch's debut film, "Eraserhead," captured the morbid imaginations of curious audiences -- including beloved comedian Mel Brooks, who was blown away by Lynch's approach to storytelling. Brooks and producer Jonathan Sanger approached Lynch with the offer to direct "The Elephant Man," a biographical prestige film about the real-life circus performer Joseph Merrick. Lynch accepted, and since Brooks had full confidence in Lynch and his vision, he deliberately removed his name from the film and branded it a Brooksfilms release to avoid any comedic association.
While we might think of Lynch as a master today, there were still plenty of growing pains he and his producers had to face as he transitioned into his first major studio film. As a perfectionist, his ego was majorly bruised working on this set. His general inexperience wasn't able to support the weight of his ambitions, as represented...
While we might think of Lynch as a master today, there were still plenty of growing pains he and his producers had to face as he transitioned into his first major studio film. As a perfectionist, his ego was majorly bruised working on this set. His general inexperience wasn't able to support the weight of his ambitions, as represented...
- 8/24/2022
- by Tyler Llewyn Taing
- Slash Film
David Lynch's 1977 debut feature "Eraserhead" is a dank, horrifying picture, replete with surrealist imagery and themes of urban blight, suicidal ideation, and parental resentment. There are dreams within dreams, and even pleasant things are craggy and ugly. It's a smoky, messy film full of squirting bodily fluids and clumps of earth. It's one of the best films of its decade.
His 1980 follow-up film, "The Elephant Man," appears on paper to be one of the least likely sophomore efforts imaginable. Produced by Mel Brooks, "The Elephant Man" was a biographical prestige picture about the real-life Joseph Merrick (named John in the film), a man afflicted with, some have conjectured, Proteus syndrome. Merrick had an enlarged head, an outside right arm, and loose, tumor-ridden skin. He was a performer in circus sideshows and was assumed to be mentally infirm by his cruel "handlers." An English doctor named Frederick Treves discovered Merrick,...
His 1980 follow-up film, "The Elephant Man," appears on paper to be one of the least likely sophomore efforts imaginable. Produced by Mel Brooks, "The Elephant Man" was a biographical prestige picture about the real-life Joseph Merrick (named John in the film), a man afflicted with, some have conjectured, Proteus syndrome. Merrick had an enlarged head, an outside right arm, and loose, tumor-ridden skin. He was a performer in circus sideshows and was assumed to be mentally infirm by his cruel "handlers." An English doctor named Frederick Treves discovered Merrick,...
- 8/18/2022
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Topic, the soon-to-launch streaming service from First Look Media, has acquired 10 international titles from Fremantle, including The Miracle made by The Young Pope producer Wildside.
Wildside, an Italian outfit owned by Fremantle, produced The Miracle (Il Miracolo) for Sky Italia and it aired in the UK on Sky Atlantic. Written by Italian novelist Niccolò Ammaniti, the eight-part series tells a story about the discovery of a Virgin Mary statue weeping tears of blood during a police raid.
The Miracle will be available once Topic launches in North America on November 21. It will be joined by Sunshine Kings, an Australian drama about a South Sudanese-Australian basketball player who is on the cusp of being picked up by Us scouts when he is embroiled in a police investigation. Sunshine Kings was produced by Easy Tiger, in association with Carver Films. It broadcast on Sbs in Australia.
The other eight titles will launch...
Wildside, an Italian outfit owned by Fremantle, produced The Miracle (Il Miracolo) for Sky Italia and it aired in the UK on Sky Atlantic. Written by Italian novelist Niccolò Ammaniti, the eight-part series tells a story about the discovery of a Virgin Mary statue weeping tears of blood during a police raid.
The Miracle will be available once Topic launches in North America on November 21. It will be joined by Sunshine Kings, an Australian drama about a South Sudanese-Australian basketball player who is on the cusp of being picked up by Us scouts when he is embroiled in a police investigation. Sunshine Kings was produced by Easy Tiger, in association with Carver Films. It broadcast on Sbs in Australia.
The other eight titles will launch...
- 11/7/2019
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
22 January 1940 – 25 January 2017
The film director remembers his friend, the actor with ‘a single malt of a voice’, who despite his ups and downs, remained a rare talent and a true professional
• Darcus Howe remembered by Diane Abbott
That voice, distilled from alcohol and Gauloises, a single malt of a voice, caressed the nation for half a century. In The Elephant Man it was only the voice. As Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant the voice swerved into a gay queenery. It expressed pain and suffering as a monster exploded out of his stomach in Alien. His Christ for Mel Brooks persuaded us that Jesus had such a voice. Its emollience spread over hundreds of movies, plays and commercials. On stage, it put audiences into a light hypnosis.
He lent it to me for two short films which were the most enjoyable of my career. He was a fine companion over 45 years.
The film director remembers his friend, the actor with ‘a single malt of a voice’, who despite his ups and downs, remained a rare talent and a true professional
• Darcus Howe remembered by Diane Abbott
That voice, distilled from alcohol and Gauloises, a single malt of a voice, caressed the nation for half a century. In The Elephant Man it was only the voice. As Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant the voice swerved into a gay queenery. It expressed pain and suffering as a monster exploded out of his stomach in Alien. His Christ for Mel Brooks persuaded us that Jesus had such a voice. Its emollience spread over hundreds of movies, plays and commercials. On stage, it put audiences into a light hypnosis.
He lent it to me for two short films which were the most enjoyable of my career. He was a fine companion over 45 years.
- 12/17/2017
- by Guardian Staff
- The Guardian - Film News
Stars: John Hurt, Liz Gebhardt, Patricia Hodge, Stanley Lebor, Katherine Schofield, Colin Higgins, John Rhys-Davies, Stephen Johnstone, Antonia Pemberton | Written by Quentin Crisp, Philip Mackie | Directed by Jack Gold
When John Hurt died we lost a true legend of film, and an actor loved by both young and old. Some knew him for his role as Kane in Alien, John Merrick in The Elephant Man, and even Doctor Who. Perhaps his most daring role though was as Quentin Crisp, The Naked Civil Servant.
The Naked Civil Servant is the story of Quentin Crisp, a shamelessly (and famously) homosexual man who was never afraid to be himself, even at a time when it was illegal. Looking at his coming of age and growth into old age the film celebrates the life of a truly inspirational individual.
Quentin Crisp is anything but shy, you get to see this in The Naked Civil Servant...
When John Hurt died we lost a true legend of film, and an actor loved by both young and old. Some knew him for his role as Kane in Alien, John Merrick in The Elephant Man, and even Doctor Who. Perhaps his most daring role though was as Quentin Crisp, The Naked Civil Servant.
The Naked Civil Servant is the story of Quentin Crisp, a shamelessly (and famously) homosexual man who was never afraid to be himself, even at a time when it was illegal. Looking at his coming of age and growth into old age the film celebrates the life of a truly inspirational individual.
Quentin Crisp is anything but shy, you get to see this in The Naked Civil Servant...
- 6/9/2017
- by Paul Metcalf
- Nerdly
For a man whose first claim to screen immortality came when an extraterrestrial freak of nature ripped a hole in his chest and screeched bloody murder in Alien, John Hurt was a hell of an actor. "The alien won the Oscar," a laughing Hurt told me nearly three decades later, referring to the Academy Award that Ridley Scott's 1979 film took home for H.R. Giger's visual effects. It might be the only time in his 55-year career that anyone, let alone a creature that looked like a penis with teeth,...
- 1/30/2017
- Rollingstone.com
Sir John Hurt, a British actor who enjoyed a long career filled with distinguished performances, has passed away, according to multiple news reports. He was 77. Born in a coal mining village in England, Hurt was accepted into the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and made both his stage and movie debuts in 1962. He first gained international attention in A Man for All Seasons (above right and below) in 1966. On television, he made big marks as the notorious Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant and in the miniseries I, Claudius as the nasty, duplicitous Caligula. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his dramatic supporting role in Midnight Express and followed that up with his brief, yet incredibly memorable (and Nsfw) appearance in Ridley Scott's...
Read More...
Read More...
- 1/28/2017
- by Peter Martin
- Movies.com
John Hurt, the British actor famed for his wide-ranging roles in films as diverse as Harry Potter, Alien and The Elephant Man, has died at the age of 77. He rose to prominence after portraying Quentin Crisp in the 1975 TV film The Naked Civil Servant and went on to become a versatile, Oscar-nominated actor. Hurt, who had been suffering from pancreatic cancer since 2015, died in London on Friday
John Hurt, versatile star of The Elephant Man, Alien and Harry Potter, dies aged 77 Continue reading...
John Hurt, versatile star of The Elephant Man, Alien and Harry Potter, dies aged 77 Continue reading...
- 1/28/2017
- by Guardian Staff
- The Guardian - Film News
Versatile actor who starred in the television film The Naked Civil Servant, the 1980 classic The Elephant Man and the BBC TV series I, Claudius
Few British actors of recent years have been held in as much affection as Sir John Hurt, who has died aged 77. That affection is not just because of his unruly lifestyle – he was a hell-raising chum of Oliver Reed, Peter O’Toole and Richard Harris, and was married four times – or even his string of performances as damaged, frail or vulnerable characters, though that was certainly a factor. There was something about his innocence, open-heartedness and his beautiful speaking voice that made him instantly attractive.
Related: A life in pictures: John Hurt
Continue reading...
Few British actors of recent years have been held in as much affection as Sir John Hurt, who has died aged 77. That affection is not just because of his unruly lifestyle – he was a hell-raising chum of Oliver Reed, Peter O’Toole and Richard Harris, and was married four times – or even his string of performances as damaged, frail or vulnerable characters, though that was certainly a factor. There was something about his innocence, open-heartedness and his beautiful speaking voice that made him instantly attractive.
Related: A life in pictures: John Hurt
Continue reading...
- 1/28/2017
- by Michael Coveney
- The Guardian - Film News
Update: The two-time Oscar-nominated British star of The Elephant Man and Midnight Express has died, his publicist confirmed to Screen on Friday night. He was 77.
Hurt was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015 and continued to work after it appeared he had overcome the disease. However last summer he withdrew from the stage revival of The Entertainer upon the advice of his doctors. According to his publicist Hurt had intestinal issues when he died.
He recently played a priest in the Natalie Portman starrer Jackie and was in the cast of Joe Wright’s upcoming Second World War drama Darkest Hour for Working Title and Focus Features.
His wife Anwen Rees-Myers issued the following statement: “It is with deep sadness that I have to confirm that my husband, John Vincent Hurt, died on Wednesday 25th January 2017 at home in Norfolk.
“John was the most sublime of actors and the most gentlemanly of gentlemen with the greatest of hearts...
Hurt was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015 and continued to work after it appeared he had overcome the disease. However last summer he withdrew from the stage revival of The Entertainer upon the advice of his doctors. According to his publicist Hurt had intestinal issues when he died.
He recently played a priest in the Natalie Portman starrer Jackie and was in the cast of Joe Wright’s upcoming Second World War drama Darkest Hour for Working Title and Focus Features.
His wife Anwen Rees-Myers issued the following statement: “It is with deep sadness that I have to confirm that my husband, John Vincent Hurt, died on Wednesday 25th January 2017 at home in Norfolk.
“John was the most sublime of actors and the most gentlemanly of gentlemen with the greatest of hearts...
- 1/28/2017
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
John Hurt has died, aged 77 Photo: Anne-Katrin Titze Stars paid tribute to Alien and The Elephant Man star John Hurt last night, who has died, aged 77.
The twice Oscar-nominated star was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015 but given the all-clear in October of that year.
He pulled out of Sir Kenneth Branagh's production of The Entertainer in July 2016 on the advice of doctors after being hospitalised with "an intestinal complaint".
Hurt, who was born in Derbyshire, appeared in more than 120 films. He received Oscar nominations for his role as John Merrick in The Elephant Man and for his supporting role as Max in Midnight Express. He won a BAFTA for his role as Merrick and The Naked Civil Servant. Two years ago he spoke to us at length about his long career and his passion for his craft.
On Twitter, Mel Brooks, who directed him in Spaceballs, wrote: "No one could have played.
The twice Oscar-nominated star was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015 but given the all-clear in October of that year.
He pulled out of Sir Kenneth Branagh's production of The Entertainer in July 2016 on the advice of doctors after being hospitalised with "an intestinal complaint".
Hurt, who was born in Derbyshire, appeared in more than 120 films. He received Oscar nominations for his role as John Merrick in The Elephant Man and for his supporting role as Max in Midnight Express. He won a BAFTA for his role as Merrick and The Naked Civil Servant. Two years ago he spoke to us at length about his long career and his passion for his craft.
On Twitter, Mel Brooks, who directed him in Spaceballs, wrote: "No one could have played.
- 1/28/2017
- by Amber Wilkinson
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
Legendary actor John Hurt has died at the age of 77, his agent confirms to the BBC.
He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Anwen Rees-Myer.
Close friend Richard E. Grant was heartbroken by the news, tweeting, “So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P.”
So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P. pic.twitter.com/J2eMMBVNLB
— Richard E. Grant (@RichardEGrant) January 28, 2017
//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
Hurt was diagnosed with cancer in 2015, but later said he was clear of the disease.
He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Anwen Rees-Myer.
Close friend Richard E. Grant was heartbroken by the news, tweeting, “So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P.”
So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P. pic.twitter.com/J2eMMBVNLB
— Richard E. Grant (@RichardEGrant) January 28, 2017
//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
Hurt was diagnosed with cancer in 2015, but later said he was clear of the disease.
- 1/28/2017
- by m34miller
- PEOPLE.com
England is viewed by the wider world as a nation of eccentrics. This is considered a genetic characteristic, and something to be celebrated. Like most assumptions, the truth lies somewhat wide of the remark. Quentin Crisp, one such "National Treasure," is now rightly revered as one, but his journey from pariah nuisance to that of sage-like venerability was a long and winding affair. He migrated to New York, remaining vital till the end, an amalgam of defiance and disappointment worn as wit.
Some considered him a latter-day Oscar Wilde, a comparison he didn't much value, remarking that he'd known many who'd been sent to prison for crimes of the flesh like Wilde's, without being broken or penning such bad verse.
Unkind maybe, but Wilde had it all and lost it largely because of his own arrogance. He could have fled to Paris, had the chance to but didn't take it.
Some considered him a latter-day Oscar Wilde, a comparison he didn't much value, remarking that he'd known many who'd been sent to prison for crimes of the flesh like Wilde's, without being broken or penning such bad verse.
Unkind maybe, but Wilde had it all and lost it largely because of his own arrogance. He could have fled to Paris, had the chance to but didn't take it.
- 12/25/2016
- by robert cochrane
- www.culturecatch.com
We’re obsessed with the dangers of alcohol and political correctness, says Hurt, who stars in Radio 4’s Jeffrey Bernard is Unwell
Sir John Hurt has bemoaned the homogenised state of modern society, in which excessive warnings about the danger of alcohol abound and making a pass at a woman is fraught with risks.
The 75-year-old actor, whose film credits include The Elephant Man, The Naked Civil Servant and the Harry Potter films said life was more fun in the days when he hellraised with the likes of Peter O’Toole and Oliver Reed.
Continue reading...
Sir John Hurt has bemoaned the homogenised state of modern society, in which excessive warnings about the danger of alcohol abound and making a pass at a woman is fraught with risks.
The 75-year-old actor, whose film credits include The Elephant Man, The Naked Civil Servant and the Harry Potter films said life was more fun in the days when he hellraised with the likes of Peter O’Toole and Oliver Reed.
Continue reading...
- 8/10/2015
- by Haroon Siddique
- The Guardian - Film News
Actor says disease is in its early stages and is undergoing treatment while continuing to focus on his work
Sir John Hurt, whose film credits include The Naked Civil Servant, The Elephant Man and the Harry Potter films, has disclosed he has cancer but is “more than optimistic” about his future.
The 75-year-old actor, who intends to keep on working, said: “I have always been open about the way in which I conduct my life and in that spirit I would like to make a statement.
Continue reading...
Sir John Hurt, whose film credits include The Naked Civil Servant, The Elephant Man and the Harry Potter films, has disclosed he has cancer but is “more than optimistic” about his future.
The 75-year-old actor, who intends to keep on working, said: “I have always been open about the way in which I conduct my life and in that spirit I would like to make a statement.
Continue reading...
- 6/16/2015
- by Caroline Davies and agencies
- The Guardian - Film News
The diva of Dynasty is now a dame. Joan Collins, who played scheming, shoulder pad-wearing Alexis Carrington in the hit 1980s TV show, was made the female equivalent of a knight in Queen Elizabeth II's annual New Year's honors list. The star of potboilers including The Stud and The Bitch was recognized for her services to charity. Collins, 81, is a longtime supporter of nonprofit groups helping children. London-born Collins said Tuesday it was "humbling to receive this level of recognition from my queen and country, and I am thrilled and truly grateful." Actress Kristin Scott Thomas, who is due...
- 12/31/2014
- by Associated Press
- PEOPLE.com
The diva of Dynasty is now a dame. Joan Collins, who played scheming, shoulder pad-wearing Alexis Carrington in the hit 1980s TV show, was made the female equivalent of a knight in Queen Elizabeth II's annual New Year's honors list. The star of potboilers including The Stud and The Bitch was recognized for her services to charity. Collins, 81, is a longtime supporter of nonprofit groups helping children. London-born Collins said Tuesday it was "humbling to receive this level of recognition from my queen and country, and I am thrilled and truly grateful." Actress Kristin Scott Thomas, who is due...
- 12/31/2014
- by Associated Press
- PEOPLE.com
We had a feeling that An Adventure in Space and Time would be aired over the 50th Anniversary of Doctor Who celebration weekend, but the exact day and time were still to be specified. We have confirmation of that now, November 22nd at 9/8c on BBC America. Wouldn’t want to miss it. Here’s the official press release.
Doctor Who’s First Doctor Regenerated in BBC America’s An Adventure in Space and Time Premiering on November 22 The story of how it all began stars David Bradley, Jessica Raine and Brian Cox
What do you get when you mix C.S. Lewis with H.G. Wells, and sprinkle in a bit of Father Christmas? An alien Time Lord exploring space and time in a Police Box spaceship called the “Tardis” (Time And Relative Dimension in Space). On November 23, 1963, a television legend began when the very first episode of Doctor Who was broadcast on BBC One.
Doctor Who’s First Doctor Regenerated in BBC America’s An Adventure in Space and Time Premiering on November 22 The story of how it all began stars David Bradley, Jessica Raine and Brian Cox
What do you get when you mix C.S. Lewis with H.G. Wells, and sprinkle in a bit of Father Christmas? An alien Time Lord exploring space and time in a Police Box spaceship called the “Tardis” (Time And Relative Dimension in Space). On November 23, 1963, a television legend began when the very first episode of Doctor Who was broadcast on BBC One.
- 11/5/2013
- by Jess Orso
- ScifiMafia
A brilliant performance by Michael Douglas illuminates an affectionate and funny portrait of the flamboyant entertainer
Liberace was a fabulously rich, self-created midwesterner, the child of humble immigrant parents known for his extravagant lifestyle and vulgar tastes, as well as his worship of the American dream and the mystery in which he was wrapped. He was in effect a gay Jay Gatsby. His life was not, however, tragic, that is until his death of an Aids-related illness at 67, and he can be considered a success in that he achieved the acclaim and celebrity he had always dreamed of, and he died believing that he had taken the secret of his homosexuality to the grave.
Steven Soderbergh's cinebiography of Liberace, Behind the Candelabra, is (so he claims) his final movie, and it had to be made for America's HBO network because no Hollywood studio would finance a film for the...
Liberace was a fabulously rich, self-created midwesterner, the child of humble immigrant parents known for his extravagant lifestyle and vulgar tastes, as well as his worship of the American dream and the mystery in which he was wrapped. He was in effect a gay Jay Gatsby. His life was not, however, tragic, that is until his death of an Aids-related illness at 67, and he can be considered a success in that he achieved the acclaim and celebrity he had always dreamed of, and he died believing that he had taken the secret of his homosexuality to the grave.
Steven Soderbergh's cinebiography of Liberace, Behind the Candelabra, is (so he claims) his final movie, and it had to be made for America's HBO network because no Hollywood studio would finance a film for the...
- 6/8/2013
- by Philip French
- The Guardian - Film News
David Tennant and Billie Piper will appear in the Doctor Who 50th anniversary special.
The BBC's official Doctor Who Twitter account (@bbcdoctorwho) posted an image of Tennant - apparently confirming the Scottish actor's return to the series.
#DoctorWho50th twitter.com/bbcdoctorwho/s…
— Doctor Who Official (@bbcdoctorwho) March 30, 2013
A second tweet - featuring an image of the character Rose Tyler - followed, confirming Piper's role in the 50th special.
#DoctorWho50th twitter.com/bbcdoctorwho/s…
— Doctor Who Official (@bbcdoctorwho) March 30, 2013
Tennant and Piper last played the Tenth Doctor and Rose Tyler in two-part special 'The End of Time', which aired on Christmas Day 2009 and New Year's Day 2010.
Doctor Who's 50th anniversary episode will be 90 minutes long, reports suggest, and receive a limited worldwide cinema release.
It was previously confirmed that the special will be shot in 3D and directed by Who veteran Nick Hurran.
Oscar-nominated actor John Hurt...
The BBC's official Doctor Who Twitter account (@bbcdoctorwho) posted an image of Tennant - apparently confirming the Scottish actor's return to the series.
#DoctorWho50th twitter.com/bbcdoctorwho/s…
— Doctor Who Official (@bbcdoctorwho) March 30, 2013
A second tweet - featuring an image of the character Rose Tyler - followed, confirming Piper's role in the 50th special.
#DoctorWho50th twitter.com/bbcdoctorwho/s…
— Doctor Who Official (@bbcdoctorwho) March 30, 2013
Tennant and Piper last played the Tenth Doctor and Rose Tyler in two-part special 'The End of Time', which aired on Christmas Day 2009 and New Year's Day 2010.
Doctor Who's 50th anniversary episode will be 90 minutes long, reports suggest, and receive a limited worldwide cinema release.
It was previously confirmed that the special will be shot in 3D and directed by Who veteran Nick Hurran.
Oscar-nominated actor John Hurt...
- 3/30/2013
- Digital Spy
Rufus Sewell was a pin-up in the 1990s, then his career stalled. He tells us about moving to La, giving up drinking and why he can't wait to lose his looks
There was a moment in the mid-1990s when Rufus Sewell's international stardom was assured. Before his 30th birthday, he had starred in two hugely successful TV adaptations, of Middlemarch and Cold Comfort Farm, and taken a lead role in the original production of Tom Stoppard's Arcadia, alongside Felicity Kendal and Bill Nighy. He would clearly become stupidly famous. But then he… didn't.
"People talk about opportunity knocking," he says, "but the gate was always swinging in the breeze before I got to the door. I was the lead in Interview With The Vampire, until Tom Cruise decided he was interested. I was in The Wings Of The Dove with Uma Thurman, until that got cancelled. I...
There was a moment in the mid-1990s when Rufus Sewell's international stardom was assured. Before his 30th birthday, he had starred in two hugely successful TV adaptations, of Middlemarch and Cold Comfort Farm, and taken a lead role in the original production of Tom Stoppard's Arcadia, alongside Felicity Kendal and Bill Nighy. He would clearly become stupidly famous. But then he… didn't.
"People talk about opportunity knocking," he says, "but the gate was always swinging in the breeze before I got to the door. I was the lead in Interview With The Vampire, until Tom Cruise decided he was interested. I was in The Wings Of The Dove with Uma Thurman, until that got cancelled. I...
- 3/30/2013
- by Liese Spencer
- The Guardian - Film News
Hollywood studios refusing to fund a film on Liberace is no surprise in a world where any overt gayness is frowned upon
A lesbian scriptwriter on a successful British soap opera once explained to me why it was impossible to maintain long-term gay characters in it. "Soap storylines rely on couples splitting up and getting off with someone else. So my gay characters would have to find others to sleep with and split up with constantly and the whole neighbourhood would end up far too gay."
"Too gay" is a marvellous concept, beautifully illustrated by Steven Soderbergh's revelation that Hollywood studios refused to finance his forthcoming biopic of Liberace because it was "too gay".
"Nobody would make it. We went to everybody in town. They said it was too gay. Everybody. This was after Brokeback Mountain, by the way," Soderbergh said on Saturday. Is it really that shocking that...
A lesbian scriptwriter on a successful British soap opera once explained to me why it was impossible to maintain long-term gay characters in it. "Soap storylines rely on couples splitting up and getting off with someone else. So my gay characters would have to find others to sleep with and split up with constantly and the whole neighbourhood would end up far too gay."
"Too gay" is a marvellous concept, beautifully illustrated by Steven Soderbergh's revelation that Hollywood studios refused to finance his forthcoming biopic of Liberace because it was "too gay".
"Nobody would make it. We went to everybody in town. They said it was too gay. Everybody. This was after Brokeback Mountain, by the way," Soderbergh said on Saturday. Is it really that shocking that...
- 1/7/2013
- by Julie Bindel
- The Guardian - Film News
Silence is golden for French film, while Meryl Streep wins best actress and John Hurt honoured for oustanding contribution
There were no spoken words, vibrant colours, impressive special effects, sophisticated plotlines or indeed anything at all that audiences expect in a modern film, and that was all very much in its favour as The Artist emerged triumphant at the 2012 Baftas.
The French silent film had been the bookies' favourite to sweep all before it and it did not disappoint, winning seven awards including best film, best director, best original screenplay, original music, best costume design, best cinematography.
The Artist's tally of Baftas equalled the number given to The King's Speech last year and Slumdog Millionaire in 2009. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid still holds the record with nine, followed by The Killing Fields with eight.
Picking up the screenplay award, The Artist's director, Michel Hazanavicius, said: "I'm very surprised,...
There were no spoken words, vibrant colours, impressive special effects, sophisticated plotlines or indeed anything at all that audiences expect in a modern film, and that was all very much in its favour as The Artist emerged triumphant at the 2012 Baftas.
The French silent film had been the bookies' favourite to sweep all before it and it did not disappoint, winning seven awards including best film, best director, best original screenplay, original music, best costume design, best cinematography.
The Artist's tally of Baftas equalled the number given to The King's Speech last year and Slumdog Millionaire in 2009. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid still holds the record with nine, followed by The Killing Fields with eight.
Picking up the screenplay award, The Artist's director, Michel Hazanavicius, said: "I'm very surprised,...
- 2/13/2012
- by Mark Brown
- The Guardian - Film News
London — Silent movie "The Artist" had a night to shout about Sunday, winning seven prizes including best picture at the British Academy Film Awards.
Britain's equivalent of the Oscars rewarded the French homage to old Hollywood over a homegrown favorite, espionage thriller "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy."
"The Artist," a black-and-white picture that has charmed audiences around the world since its Cannes debut in May, was named best film, and its rubber-limbed star Jean Dujardin took the male acting prize. Its filmmaker, Michel Hazanavicius, won prizes for directing and his original screenplay.
Dujardin said it was "incroyable" – incredible – to win a prize in the homeland of acting titan Laurence Olivier, William Webb Ellis – the inventor of rugby – "and Benny Hill."
Hazanavicius thanked presenter Brad Pitt for pronouncing his name correctly – and academy voters for recognizing that his silent film even had a screenplay.
"So many people thought there was no script because there was no dialogue,...
Britain's equivalent of the Oscars rewarded the French homage to old Hollywood over a homegrown favorite, espionage thriller "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy."
"The Artist," a black-and-white picture that has charmed audiences around the world since its Cannes debut in May, was named best film, and its rubber-limbed star Jean Dujardin took the male acting prize. Its filmmaker, Michel Hazanavicius, won prizes for directing and his original screenplay.
Dujardin said it was "incroyable" – incredible – to win a prize in the homeland of acting titan Laurence Olivier, William Webb Ellis – the inventor of rugby – "and Benny Hill."
Hazanavicius thanked presenter Brad Pitt for pronouncing his name correctly – and academy voters for recognizing that his silent film even had a screenplay.
"So many people thought there was no script because there was no dialogue,...
- 2/12/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
• The Artist wins seven awards including the best picture, director and actor prizes
• The Iron Lady, Hugo, Senna and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy take two apiece
Xan Brooks's report from the 65th British Academy film awards at London's Royal Opera House.
• The 2012 shortlist of nominations
• Baftas 2012: Our critics' predictions
6.05pm: Welcome to the freeze-dried heart of wintry London for tonight's Bafta film awards, the latest stop on the awards circus as the whole shebang picks up speed on the way to the Oscars. Tonight's grand showdown looks (on paper at least) to be a three-way tussle between The Artist, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Hugo, which lead the field with 12, 11 and nine nominations respectively. The Artist's run towards the crowning best film Oscar looks all but unstoppable but Tinker Tailor may well step in to spoil the party here this evening. Having been completely shut out at the Golden Globes,...
• The Iron Lady, Hugo, Senna and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy take two apiece
Xan Brooks's report from the 65th British Academy film awards at London's Royal Opera House.
• The 2012 shortlist of nominations
• Baftas 2012: Our critics' predictions
6.05pm: Welcome to the freeze-dried heart of wintry London for tonight's Bafta film awards, the latest stop on the awards circus as the whole shebang picks up speed on the way to the Oscars. Tonight's grand showdown looks (on paper at least) to be a three-way tussle between The Artist, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Hugo, which lead the field with 12, 11 and nine nominations respectively. The Artist's run towards the crowning best film Oscar looks all but unstoppable but Tinker Tailor may well step in to spoil the party here this evening. Having been completely shut out at the Golden Globes,...
- 2/12/2012
- by Xan Brooks
- The Guardian - Film News
Although excluded from the Oscars race and unsuccessful with its one nomination for best actress at the Golden Globes, director Lynne Ramsay's We Need To Talk About Kevin triumphed at the London Evening Standard British Film Awards.
The drama - about a woman's attempt to come to terms with her son's involvement in an American high school massacre - won the trophy for best film at last night's ceremony. However, it lost out in the best actress and best technical categories in which it had also been nominated.
Also up for best film were Archipelago, Shame, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Tyrannosaur.
Michael Fassbender (above) picked up the best actor award for his portrayal of a sex addict in Shame and his role in Jane Eyre, while Olivia Colman won the best actress award, beating three Oscar winners - Vanessa Redgrave, Rachel Weisz and Tilda Swinton - to the prize.
The drama - about a woman's attempt to come to terms with her son's involvement in an American high school massacre - won the trophy for best film at last night's ceremony. However, it lost out in the best actress and best technical categories in which it had also been nominated.
Also up for best film were Archipelago, Shame, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Tyrannosaur.
Michael Fassbender (above) picked up the best actor award for his portrayal of a sex addict in Shame and his role in Jane Eyre, while Olivia Colman won the best actress award, beating three Oscar winners - Vanessa Redgrave, Rachel Weisz and Tilda Swinton - to the prize.
- 2/8/2012
- by David Bentley
- The Geek Files
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is delighted to announce that John Hurt will receive the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award at the Orange British Academy Film Awards ceremony at London’s Royal Opera House on Sunday 12 February. Universally acclaimed for his acting talent, Hurt’s vast range of distinguished performances has shaped an impressive career spanning six decades.
The Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award, introduced in 1978, is presented annually in honour of Michael Balcon. Previous recipients include Mike Leigh, Kenneth Branagh, Derek Jarman, Mary Selway, Ridley and Tony Scott, Working Title Films and Lewis Gilbert. Last year’s recipient was the Harry Potter series of films.
Hurt has starred in a variety of remarkable film roles working alongside some of the most important figures in the industry including Orson Welles, Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton and Steven Spielberg. The legendary characters he has portrayed include Winston Smith in Nineteen Eighty-Four,...
The Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award, introduced in 1978, is presented annually in honour of Michael Balcon. Previous recipients include Mike Leigh, Kenneth Branagh, Derek Jarman, Mary Selway, Ridley and Tony Scott, Working Title Films and Lewis Gilbert. Last year’s recipient was the Harry Potter series of films.
Hurt has starred in a variety of remarkable film roles working alongside some of the most important figures in the industry including Orson Welles, Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton and Steven Spielberg. The legendary characters he has portrayed include Winston Smith in Nineteen Eighty-Four,...
- 1/27/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
John Hurt will receive the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award at this year's BAFTAs, to be held on February 12 at London's Royal Opera House. Hurt is already a BAFTA veteran, having won two Best Actor awards during his career, one for the TV film "The Naked Civil Servant" and another for "The Elephant Man," as well as a Best Supporting Actor award for "Midnight Express." He has also received four other BAFTA nominations, and has been nominated for the Academy Award twice. Throughout his career, Hurt has played iconic roles such as Winston Smith in "Nineteen Eighty-Four" and Rich in "A Man for All...
- 1/27/2012
- Thompson on Hollywood
BAFTA have just sent over a press release alerting us to the fact that the legendary veteran actor, John Hurt is to be he recipient of the 2012 BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema. Hurt has been acting since 1962 when he appeared in TV series Z Cars. More recently he has appeared in the likes of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and the Harry Potter franchise where he appeared as Ollivander, the wand expert.
I’ve placed the press release below but this award is so deserved and massive congrats John Hurt!
Ohn Hurt To Receive BAFTA Award For Outstanding British Contribution To Cinema
London, 27 January 2012: The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is delighted to announce that John Hurt will receive the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award at the Orange British Academy Film Awards ceremony at London’s Royal Opera House on Sunday 12 February. Universally acclaimed for his acting talent,...
I’ve placed the press release below but this award is so deserved and massive congrats John Hurt!
Ohn Hurt To Receive BAFTA Award For Outstanding British Contribution To Cinema
London, 27 January 2012: The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is delighted to announce that John Hurt will receive the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award at the Orange British Academy Film Awards ceremony at London’s Royal Opera House on Sunday 12 February. Universally acclaimed for his acting talent,...
- 1/27/2012
- by David Sztypuljak
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Mother's day special: John Hurt, Michael Caine, Cher, Martin Lawrence, Rumer Willis and Anthony Hopkins on the women who gave them life
John Hurt, actor
My mother, Phyllis, was the first female draughtsman for Metrovick in Manchester, a huge electrical engineering company. She drew Rolls-Royce engines and all sorts of things. She grew up in Salford and hadn't been allowed to go to university. Her career rarely came into conversation. It wasn't until much later that I realised how difficult that must have been to succeed in a male-oriented society. We're talking about wartime. For her period, she was unusual. Obviously, she fell in love. My father was a vicar. They had a four-year engagement, which was not peculiar in those few days. A "proper engagement": no sex I presume. A bit of necking; certainly no shagging allowed!
This is not substantiated, but I believe my mother subjugated her...
John Hurt, actor
My mother, Phyllis, was the first female draughtsman for Metrovick in Manchester, a huge electrical engineering company. She drew Rolls-Royce engines and all sorts of things. She grew up in Salford and hadn't been allowed to go to university. Her career rarely came into conversation. It wasn't until much later that I realised how difficult that must have been to succeed in a male-oriented society. We're talking about wartime. For her period, she was unusual. Obviously, she fell in love. My father was a vicar. They had a four-year engagement, which was not peculiar in those few days. A "proper engagement": no sex I presume. A bit of necking; certainly no shagging allowed!
This is not substantiated, but I believe my mother subjugated her...
- 4/1/2011
- The Guardian - Film News
Hopefully there won't be a chorus of voices proclaiming that I've discovered a new room in the house of 'wrong'. The same personal history that attracts us to certain faces (or quirks - or even defects) applies to how we respond to any particular human voice, so a list of 'best voices' is going to be pretty far from any kind of actuarial table on the matter. That said, there seems to be a pretty broad consensus of 'voice appeal' in a lot of my choices.
I note that I only came up with five female voices out of twenty. I don't know if that's some kind of unconscious sexism, or if it in any way ratifies the (itself probably pretty sexist) opinion I once heard that female voices have less scope than male ones. In any case that bias, if such it is, is in pretty broad opposition to...
I note that I only came up with five female voices out of twenty. I don't know if that's some kind of unconscious sexism, or if it in any way ratifies the (itself probably pretty sexist) opinion I once heard that female voices have less scope than male ones. In any case that bias, if such it is, is in pretty broad opposition to...
- 3/30/2011
- Shadowlocked
London -- John Hurt and Kenneth Branagh will go head to head for the coveted best actor award at this year's BAFTA TV awards, alongside Brendan Gleeson and newcomer David Oyelowo, organizers announced Monday.
The awards, Britain's top television nods, will be handed out June 6 at a star-studded showbiz gala to be held at the Palladium theater in London's West End and broadcast near-live on BBC1.
Branagh is nominated for his performance in the bleak Scandinavian detective series "Wallander," while Hurt is in contention for reprising his portrayal of the flamboyant-yet-vulnerable Englishman Quentin Crisp in ITV's "An Englishman in New York," some 34 years after he won the BAFTA actor award for playing Crisp in "The Naked Civil Servant."
Gleeson portrayed Winston Churchill in an intimate political and domestic portrait of the British wartime Prime Minister "Into the Storm" while Oyelowo was named for his performance in the BBC1 Jamaican immigrant drama "Small Island.
The awards, Britain's top television nods, will be handed out June 6 at a star-studded showbiz gala to be held at the Palladium theater in London's West End and broadcast near-live on BBC1.
Branagh is nominated for his performance in the bleak Scandinavian detective series "Wallander," while Hurt is in contention for reprising his portrayal of the flamboyant-yet-vulnerable Englishman Quentin Crisp in ITV's "An Englishman in New York," some 34 years after he won the BAFTA actor award for playing Crisp in "The Naked Civil Servant."
Gleeson portrayed Winston Churchill in an intimate political and domestic portrait of the British wartime Prime Minister "Into the Storm" while Oyelowo was named for his performance in the BBC1 Jamaican immigrant drama "Small Island.
- 5/10/2010
- by By Mimi Turner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
John Hurt claims Quentin Crisp changed his life. The actor, who has played the English eccentric twice in different productions, suggested that the character has proved sometimes to be a personally enjoyable but a professional hindrance. He said: ''A part that changed my life was the one of the gay eccentric and entertainer Quentin Crisp, who I portrayed for the first time in 1975 in 'The Naked Civil Servant' and again in 2008 for 'An Englishman in New York'. ''It was a turning point as a character artist, but a bittersweet one too. The people called me 'gay', which I ..
- 1/29/2010
- Virgin Media - Movies
John Hurt brilliantly reprised his role as Quentin Crisp while a BBC adaptation of Henry James's ghost story kept us guessing, writes Phil Hogan
It's hard to imagine now the national astonishment that greeted The Naked Civil Servant when it first aired in the 1970s, an era when the sight of a man promenading in a floppy hat, eyeshadow and a chiffon scarf could only mean Dick Emery. The film – a moving adaptation of Quentin Crisp's then little-known memoir of his imperilled life in the 1930s as a brazen homosexual – made an icon of Crisp and a star of John Hurt, who caught his subject's manner and spirit with such eerie exactitude that it took The Elephant Man (1980) to shake it off. But Hurt buttoned himself back into the role without a fumble for An Englishman in New York, which saw the elderly Crisp taking his fabulous new...
It's hard to imagine now the national astonishment that greeted The Naked Civil Servant when it first aired in the 1970s, an era when the sight of a man promenading in a floppy hat, eyeshadow and a chiffon scarf could only mean Dick Emery. The film – a moving adaptation of Quentin Crisp's then little-known memoir of his imperilled life in the 1930s as a brazen homosexual – made an icon of Crisp and a star of John Hurt, who caught his subject's manner and spirit with such eerie exactitude that it took The Elephant Man (1980) to shake it off. But Hurt buttoned himself back into the role without a fumble for An Englishman in New York, which saw the elderly Crisp taking his fabulous new...
- 1/3/2010
- by Phil Hogan
- The Guardian - Film News
What?! It’s not enough that we spent the whole year providing you with insightful news and analysis on gay and bisexual entertainment – now we have to pick which 2009 projects we think best represented gay and bisexual men?!
Sorry, we’re getting a little Grinch-y around here come year-end.
But the fact is, gay and bisexual entertainment-related news is inexorably linked with the issue of visibility. If you know anything at all about the history of such entertainment, you know that it’s almost always been “controversial.” As passionate as the creators of these projects have always been, there’s been a similarly strong counter-pressure to keep these themes hidden or under wraps.
As a result, for a website like ours, covering the “news” of these projects inevitably becomes a question of championing the ones of quality (and giving the hook to those who don’t measure up, or that...
Sorry, we’re getting a little Grinch-y around here come year-end.
But the fact is, gay and bisexual entertainment-related news is inexorably linked with the issue of visibility. If you know anything at all about the history of such entertainment, you know that it’s almost always been “controversial.” As passionate as the creators of these projects have always been, there’s been a similarly strong counter-pressure to keep these themes hidden or under wraps.
As a result, for a website like ours, covering the “news” of these projects inevitably becomes a question of championing the ones of quality (and giving the hook to those who don’t measure up, or that...
- 12/21/2009
- by Brent Hartinger
- The Backlot
A TV sequel to The Naked Civil Servant, also starring John Hurt, will reveal how Crisp finally made amends for denying the impact of the disease that devastated the gay community
by Vanessa Thorpe
Arts and Media Correspondent
Quentin Crisp, the wit, gay rights campaigner and avant-garde performer made famous by the 1975 film The Naked Civil Servant, lived in cell-like simplicity for the last years of his life and secretly gave much of his money to Aids charities.
A new sequel to the film, to be screened on television this Christmas, sees the actor John Hurt reprising his celebrated early role, and will reveal Crisp's private attempts to make amends for denying the serious impact of the disease that was laying waste to young men in New York.
Hurt, who this time portrays Crisp in his final years, said he welcomed the chance to thank Crisp by helping to rehabilitate his image among gay men.
by Vanessa Thorpe
Arts and Media Correspondent
Quentin Crisp, the wit, gay rights campaigner and avant-garde performer made famous by the 1975 film The Naked Civil Servant, lived in cell-like simplicity for the last years of his life and secretly gave much of his money to Aids charities.
A new sequel to the film, to be screened on television this Christmas, sees the actor John Hurt reprising his celebrated early role, and will reveal Crisp's private attempts to make amends for denying the serious impact of the disease that was laying waste to young men in New York.
Hurt, who this time portrays Crisp in his final years, said he welcomed the chance to thank Crisp by helping to rehabilitate his image among gay men.
- 12/20/2009
- by Vanessa Thorpe
- The Guardian - Film News
As John Hurt reprises his role as the flamboyant raconteur and gay icon, Quentin Crisp, in An Englishman in New York, Ben Walters traces the writer's legacy in the Big Apple
"I don't believe in abroad," John Hurt's Quentin Crisp says towards the end of The Naked Civil Servant, the 1975 Thames Television drama that made Hurt a star and Crisp an icon. Before long, Crisp would revise his opinion: after his new-found fame led to him performing in New York in 1978, he fell in love with the city and, forsaking his self-appointed status as one of the stately homos of England, relocated there in 1981, aged 72. He would remain one of its most celebrated resident aliens for the remaining 18 years of his life.
Now that period is the subject of its own ITV film, An Englishman in New York, which takes its title from the song Sting wrote about Crisp.
"I don't believe in abroad," John Hurt's Quentin Crisp says towards the end of The Naked Civil Servant, the 1975 Thames Television drama that made Hurt a star and Crisp an icon. Before long, Crisp would revise his opinion: after his new-found fame led to him performing in New York in 1978, he fell in love with the city and, forsaking his self-appointed status as one of the stately homos of England, relocated there in 1981, aged 72. He would remain one of its most celebrated resident aliens for the remaining 18 years of his life.
Now that period is the subject of its own ITV film, An Englishman in New York, which takes its title from the song Sting wrote about Crisp.
- 12/9/2009
- by Ben Walters
- The Guardian - Film News
ITV1 has unveiled its 2009 Christmas lineup, which includes footage from Take That's recent tour and an Ant and Dec Christmas special. The Ant and Dec special will see the Geordie presenters host a show featuring sketches, performances and surprise guests - filmed in front of a live studio audience. In drama, Julia McKenzie returns as Marple, Poirot is back and John Hurt returns to the role of Quentin Crisp in An Englishman In New York, a follow-on from The Naked Civil Servant. Piers Morgan's Review Of The Year will see the Britain's Got Talent judge reflect on 2009, while Harry Hill offers an alternative perspective in TV Burp Review Of The Year. Additionally, ITV1 will broadcast Take That: (more)...
- 12/1/2009
- by By Dan French
- Digital Spy
He got his big break playing Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant and now, 34 years later, John Hurt is at it again
There's something disturbing about John Hurt. That familiar Mount Rushmore face seems to have ironed itself out. It was once compared to a komodo dragon – even his lines seemed to have lines – but today he looks peachy as a schoolboy. You've been on the Botox, haven't you? He roars with how-dare-you laughter. "Nah! Hahahaha! No. Don't say that. That would be awful. Not in a million years would I do that." He's got a point: take away the cracks and creases, and his job prospects would diminish no end. His face is one of the most distinctive in the movies. Almost as distinctive as his voice, dripping with honey and acid, often at the same time. Look, he admits, there might well be a reason for his...
There's something disturbing about John Hurt. That familiar Mount Rushmore face seems to have ironed itself out. It was once compared to a komodo dragon – even his lines seemed to have lines – but today he looks peachy as a schoolboy. You've been on the Botox, haven't you? He roars with how-dare-you laughter. "Nah! Hahahaha! No. Don't say that. That would be awful. Not in a million years would I do that." He's got a point: take away the cracks and creases, and his job prospects would diminish no end. His face is one of the most distinctive in the movies. Almost as distinctive as his voice, dripping with honey and acid, often at the same time. Look, he admits, there might well be a reason for his...
- 11/21/2009
- by Simon Hattenstone
- The Guardian - Film News
He got his big break playing Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant and now, 34 years later, John Hurt is at it again
There's something disturbing about John Hurt. That familiar Mount Rushmore face seems to have ironed itself out. It was once compared to a komodo dragon – even his lines seemed to have lines – but today he looks peachy as a schoolboy. You've been on the Botox, haven't you? He roars with how-dare-you laughter. "Nah! Hahahaha! No. Don't say that. That would be awful. Not in a million years would I do that." He's got a point: take away the cracks and creases, and his job prospects would diminish no end. His face is one of the most distinctive in the movies. Almost as distinctive as his voice, dripping with honey and acid, often at the same time. Look, he admits, there might well be a reason for his...
There's something disturbing about John Hurt. That familiar Mount Rushmore face seems to have ironed itself out. It was once compared to a komodo dragon – even his lines seemed to have lines – but today he looks peachy as a schoolboy. You've been on the Botox, haven't you? He roars with how-dare-you laughter. "Nah! Hahahaha! No. Don't say that. That would be awful. Not in a million years would I do that." He's got a point: take away the cracks and creases, and his job prospects would diminish no end. His face is one of the most distinctive in the movies. Almost as distinctive as his voice, dripping with honey and acid, often at the same time. Look, he admits, there might well be a reason for his...
- 11/21/2009
- The Guardian - Film News
In 1968, at the age of 60, a British writer named Quentin Crisp published a memoir, The Naked Civil Servant, about his life as a defiantly openly gay man at a time when homosexuality was illegal. He chose to dye his hair fuchsia, and sometimes wore make-up and women’s clothes — and as a result found himself scorned and beat up for much of his life.
The book was only a modest success, but Crisp's witty, irreverent take on life eventually made its way onto television, in a 1975 movie in which John Hurt portrayed Crisp (to perfection).
Crisp became an international sensation — and it's no exaggeration to say the movie, and its subject's unapologetic gayness, helped usher in a period of more open gay rights activism in the U.K.
Now 34 years after that movie comes a "follow-up" film, once again starring Hurt, telling the story of Crisp’s post-Naked Civil Servant life,...
The book was only a modest success, but Crisp's witty, irreverent take on life eventually made its way onto television, in a 1975 movie in which John Hurt portrayed Crisp (to perfection).
Crisp became an international sensation — and it's no exaggeration to say the movie, and its subject's unapologetic gayness, helped usher in a period of more open gay rights activism in the U.K.
Now 34 years after that movie comes a "follow-up" film, once again starring Hurt, telling the story of Crisp’s post-Naked Civil Servant life,...
- 10/15/2009
- by Brent Hartinger
- The Backlot
As part of the 53rd London Film Festival the BFI will be making John Hurt its latest Fellow, according to the BBC.
Hurt has acted in over 150 film and TV productions, from the fuzzy black and white of early UK tv series to the biggest Hollywood blockbusters of the day, he is an outstanding actor who brings a sublime, gentle energy to each role. From his iconic turn in The Naked Civil Servant to the role of Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter films, every role is as unique as the last. That the BFI have chosen to single out one of our finest actors is testament to the quality of his work.
Coincidentally I watched Hurt suffer a heart stopping Heimlich in Ridley Scott’s Alien last night and am now watching the 1997 Robert Zemeckis film Contact, in which Hurt plays a billionaire philanthropist with cosmic ambitions. In both films he steals every scene,...
Hurt has acted in over 150 film and TV productions, from the fuzzy black and white of early UK tv series to the biggest Hollywood blockbusters of the day, he is an outstanding actor who brings a sublime, gentle energy to each role. From his iconic turn in The Naked Civil Servant to the role of Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter films, every role is as unique as the last. That the BFI have chosen to single out one of our finest actors is testament to the quality of his work.
Coincidentally I watched Hurt suffer a heart stopping Heimlich in Ridley Scott’s Alien last night and am now watching the 1997 Robert Zemeckis film Contact, in which Hurt plays a billionaire philanthropist with cosmic ambitions. In both films he steals every scene,...
- 10/7/2009
- by Jon Lyus
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
I've been doing some Q&A and panel coverage for Tribeca so if you're interested, read and click on.
Last night I caught Okuribito (Departures) [Q & A] which you'll undoubtedly remember won the Foreign Film Oscar in February. Though it's hard to believe, this marked Japan's first competitive win in the category (though they had a few honoraries early on). Had I seen this film prior to Oscar night, I would have known that Japan's wait would be over. It's more traditional and accessible than The Class (my silver medalist for 2008) and the Academy loves traditional and accessible especially when they're paired with tears. Departures plucks the heartstrings practically as well as its leading man Masahiro Motoki pretends he's plucking his beloved cello strings. [previous post feat. Motoki]
I also caught Englishman in New York [Q & A] which is a non-sequel/sequel to The Naked Civil Servant in that it also stars John Hurt as Quentin Crisp. This...
Last night I caught Okuribito (Departures) [Q & A] which you'll undoubtedly remember won the Foreign Film Oscar in February. Though it's hard to believe, this marked Japan's first competitive win in the category (though they had a few honoraries early on). Had I seen this film prior to Oscar night, I would have known that Japan's wait would be over. It's more traditional and accessible than The Class (my silver medalist for 2008) and the Academy loves traditional and accessible especially when they're paired with tears. Departures plucks the heartstrings practically as well as its leading man Masahiro Motoki pretends he's plucking his beloved cello strings. [previous post feat. Motoki]
I also caught Englishman in New York [Q & A] which is a non-sequel/sequel to The Naked Civil Servant in that it also stars John Hurt as Quentin Crisp. This...
- 4/30/2009
- by NATHANIEL R
- FilmExperience
It had been over 30 years, but John Hurt was ready to put himself back into Quentin Crisp’s shoes. In 1975 Hurt played Crisp in “The Naked Civil Servant” and plays him again in “An Englishman in New York,” which focuses on the point in the flamboyant writer’s life when he relocates to New York.
The film’s stars walked the red carpet to celebrate its release at the Tribeca Film Festival. Jonathon Tucker was simply thrilled to see so much support for his film, which tells such an important story. Hurt explains his history with his character and Cynthia Nixon, emphasizes the significance of Hurt being able to play this role a second time. Finally, Swoozie Kurtz talks about her reverence for Nixon.
The film’s stars walked the red carpet to celebrate its release at the Tribeca Film Festival. Jonathon Tucker was simply thrilled to see so much support for his film, which tells such an important story. Hurt explains his history with his character and Cynthia Nixon, emphasizes the significance of Hurt being able to play this role a second time. Finally, Swoozie Kurtz talks about her reverence for Nixon.
- 4/29/2009
- ReelTalkTV.com
It's one thing to play a character more than once when you have a film franchise or simply a film with a sequel. In John Hurt's case, he is revisiting a role he played over 30 years ago. Hurt played a youthful Quentin Crisp in 1975's The Naked Civil Servant, which was based on the gay icon's autobiography. An Englishman in New York picks up where The Naked Civil Servant left off, with Crisp spending the latter years of his life in New York. On the red carpet for the film's premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, the cast was well aware of the significance of this achievement. Jonathan Tucker was thrilled to see support for the film and for such an important story. Hurt was on hand to give a brief history of his experience playing Crisp and Cynthia Nixon followed up by recognizing how unusual it is to...
- 4/29/2009
- cinemablend.com
If John Hurt really likes something, he goes back for seconds. In 1975, he did The Naked Civil Servant, playing gay icon Quentin Crisp for the first time. And at the Tribeca Film Festival, he's in An Englishman in New York, which picks up where Servant left off. But there's another role he's about to revisit -- Ollivander the wandmaker for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. "Yes, that's up...
- 4/28/2009
- AMC News: Film Festivals
If John Hurt really likes something, he goes back for seconds. In 1975, he did The Naked Civil Servant, playing gay icon Quentin Crisp for the first time. And at the Tribeca Film Festival, he's in An Englishman in New York, which picks up where Servant left off. But there's another role he's about to revisit -- Ollivander the wandmaker for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. "Yes, that's up...
- 4/28/2009
- AMC News Interviews
London -- Amid plunging advertising revenue, pink slips by the thousands and an ever-worsening economic outlook, it's little wonder that buyers and sellers heading to Miptv at month's end expect to do business in a radically changed world.
"The credit crunch has forced a revolution in the industry," said James Burstall, CEO of London-based Leopard Films. "The establishment is breaking up, fat cats are being thrown out of their ivory towers. We are having to rethink how we restructure television companies and how we make programming."
Still, he contends that however painful the changes might be, they also promise huge creative and commercial opportunities.
Longer runs of returnable series and cleverly structured commissions can offer broadcasters a better economic equation, Burstall said, citing Leopard's "Missing Live," a 20-part live interactive daytime show on BBC1 that tracks missing persons. It was coupled with the five-part procedural drama series "Missing," which explored...
"The credit crunch has forced a revolution in the industry," said James Burstall, CEO of London-based Leopard Films. "The establishment is breaking up, fat cats are being thrown out of their ivory towers. We are having to rethink how we restructure television companies and how we make programming."
Still, he contends that however painful the changes might be, they also promise huge creative and commercial opportunities.
Longer runs of returnable series and cleverly structured commissions can offer broadcasters a better economic equation, Burstall said, citing Leopard's "Missing Live," a 20-part live interactive daytime show on BBC1 that tracks missing persons. It was coupled with the five-part procedural drama series "Missing," which explored...
- 3/19/2009
- by By Mimi Turner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
And here's the rest, including the Midnight Section, all after the break.
Encounters
This collection of engaging and entertaining narrative features and documentaries, a mixture of dark comedies and lighter fare, offers work from returning filmmakers, established talent, and popular subjects, and includes 10 World Premieres. Included in Encounters are performances from Academy Award®-nominated actors Thomas Haden Church, Melissa Leo, Elisabeth Shue; directorial debuts from both Eric Bana and Cheryl Hines (from a screenplay by Adrienne Shelly); stories ranging from an ill-fated man's discovery of inspiration and happiness, dysfunctional families, and unrequited high school crushes to a doc on the emergence of New York’s independent film scene.
• Blank City, directed by Celine Danhier. (USA) - World Premiere, Documentary. Celine Danhier’s kinetic doc mirrors the urgent, anything-goes energy of her subject: the Diy independent film movement that emerged in tandem with punk rock in late ‘70s downtown New York.
Encounters
This collection of engaging and entertaining narrative features and documentaries, a mixture of dark comedies and lighter fare, offers work from returning filmmakers, established talent, and popular subjects, and includes 10 World Premieres. Included in Encounters are performances from Academy Award®-nominated actors Thomas Haden Church, Melissa Leo, Elisabeth Shue; directorial debuts from both Eric Bana and Cheryl Hines (from a screenplay by Adrienne Shelly); stories ranging from an ill-fated man's discovery of inspiration and happiness, dysfunctional families, and unrequited high school crushes to a doc on the emergence of New York’s independent film scene.
• Blank City, directed by Celine Danhier. (USA) - World Premiere, Documentary. Celine Danhier’s kinetic doc mirrors the urgent, anything-goes energy of her subject: the Diy independent film movement that emerged in tandem with punk rock in late ‘70s downtown New York.
- 3/11/2009
- QuietEarth.us
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.