The Daily Mail is claiming that Paul Bettany is near taking the role of Lord Asriel in the forthcoming His Dark Materials movies. The paper says that he is “facing the last hurdle in negotiations.” Following up on its previous claim that Nicole Kidman has been offered the Mrs Coulter role, it says that “people on the film” have been telling others that the star will be in the movie and that she has “agreed to cut her multi-million-dollar fee.” “[Paul and Nicole] get on, so him being in the film is something Nicole is taking into consideration,” one executive reportedly told the Mail. Read more.
The article also says that whilst “principal photography” begins in September, New Line have already “begun shooting discreetly in the UK.” It also mentions that Weitz has officially hired an actress – Claire Higgens, who has won the Olivier Award thrice. This may be her (see photo).
Update: The Mail, whilst reporting on Kidman's move to Britain, claim that she is doing so in order to shoot the film. They say, “Nicole's agents and executives from New Line spent over two months at what were described by one source at the studio as 'complex' negotiations to secure the actress's services.” Read more.
Note: This story is still highly unconfirmed. The Mail have a history of making up rumours, having insisted for years (even before the film had a director) that Kidman was 'on the verge' of taking the role. That latest article, for example, deceptively states that “author Pullman revealed that he had always visualised Nicole playing the part of the glamorous sable-coated Mrs Coulter,” which in actuality was a remark made over five years ago.
A source of ours within New Line was unable to confirm any of this, so take all reports with a grain of salt.
July 14, 2006
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128 Comments:
Post your own!Please keep comments on topic - we have a message board for general discussion.
Tony says:
I've seen some of Paul Bettany's acting and I have not seen any qualities of Asriel in his acting. Although he was very good at acting his part in the moives that I have seen, hopefully he will be able to pull it off.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Tony says:
Did\’nt you just say on the page before that one of your favorite movies was a kinghts Taal.
:wassat: :wassat: :wassat:
I think you should wathch that moive again and you\’ll know.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Gloria says:
Paul Bettany? One of my favourite actors, very good looking. However I pictured Lord Asriel looking different. Bettany has been in A Beautiful Mind, The Da Vinci Code, Wimbledon, and Firewall. To see pictures go to paulbettany.net
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Missy-Me says:
that Paul Bettany is so wrong..! 
I had imagend lord. Asriel very different… well, make-up can do allot :tongue:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
JV says:
Am I the only one who thinks Viggo Mortensen should be Lord Asriel?
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Aeran says:
Bettany? Not bad! (as long as Asriel isn't an albino, haha)
JV: my friend and I were discussing casting the other day and thought Viggo Mortensen might make an interesting Scoresby, but a terrible Asriel!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Willl says:
(Tony – it's only small conversations here, don't bother quoting the person you're replying to, it only clutters things up.)
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MainMe says:
Yeah! Paul Bettany! He's a brilliant actor, trust me . . he'll be great!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
ARC says:
:wassat: I don't see Paul Bettany in the role. If Sean Connery was 20 years younger he would be the perfect Asriel. I don't know about Nicole Kidman either. I think Rachel Weisz would be the perfect Coulter provided she can act the part. She might also be a good choice for Serafina although my guess is that's the role Claire Higgens has been offered.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
KittyKat: says:
no, no, no, no, no, no, nooooooo!
just…no! Claire Higgins as Serafina? just NO WAY. nuh-uh. nope. can't be.
noooooooo!
please no!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
JV says:
Oh, Higgins as Ma Costa? Great, that would suit her much better than Serafina.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NOT PAUL BETTANY OR NICOLE KIDMAN!!! yes, they're brilliant actors, but neither of them are right for the parts! DOESN'T ANYONE ELSE SEE THAT!? :angry:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
Finally someone who agrees with me! everyone else i pitch that casting idea to says it's a bad choice, but they're WRONG!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Ali says:
OH MY GOSH YES! Paul Bettany is a BRILLIANT actor, I never even thought of him as Lord Asriel but now that I think about it, he'd be really good. He can be charming but dark as well, which is quite like Lord Asriel.
And if his role in the movie helps Nicole Kidman decide to play Mrs Coulter, then all the better. I love Nicole Kidman…
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
jell says:
Oh YAY! Claire Higgens is a great actress! Can't really see her as Serafina or Ma Costa though… and Paul Bettany doesn't seem like much of an Asriel :wassat:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
Paul Bettany is all WRONG for Asriel, and Nicole Kidman is all WRONG for Coulter!!!! "HAS ANYBODY ELSE NOTICED THAT? I FEEL LIKE I'M TAKING CRAZY PILLS!" Asriel large, dark, ambitious, and just gives off this haughty power like a lamp gives off light. even an actor as good as Bettany can't replicate that.
And, i'm sorry, but i just don't like Kidman that much. Yes, she's a brilliant actress, but she's all WRONG for Coulter!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Rin says:
Claire Higgens would be good as Ma Costa, but NO WAY should Paul Bettany play Lord Asriel. I agree with you about that, Wytchbabi.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
The Bard says:
Heather Graham should be Mrs. Coulter
and tbh, I really can't think of anyone who would be right for Asrael…maybe Christian Bale…or Sean Bean…yeah, those two would be quite good.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
The Bard says:
Hahah, How about Jeremy Irons for Asrael??
"I vant to hear nusink about ze germans!"
"Simon says zere is a bomb…"
Lawl.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alewyn says:
Paul Bettany?…Paul Bettany?…Paul Bettany????? ARE YOU JOKING???
Don't get me wrong, I love him, but…as ASRIEL? Paul Bettany…Lord Asriel…no, just…no.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
trilogyfreak9 says:
Silas the albino monk with problems
and
Cold Mountain Girl with more problems
Hmmm….
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
seanie says:
are you insane Wytchbabi!?!? ok ok i totally agree with you that bettany is not right for asriel, but nicole kidman is perfect for coulter. if the author of the book thinks nicole is good for the part then i think she is good for the part.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Georgia says:
I can't say I'm too thrilled with Paul Bettany as Lord Asriel. He's rather young, he doesn't give off the powerful air..I dunno. But he is a good actor, so perhaps he can pull it off.
And… *deep breath* FINALLY! If Ms. Coulter isn't Nicole Kidman, I'd just cry. She'd be brilliant.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
Well, the casting choice if Kidman for Coulter is the ONE and ONLY thing i disagree with Philip Pullman about. Yes, he IS a genius, and Yes, she IS a brilliant actress, but she is…just…so…WRONG! Now, Catherine Zeta-Jones, maybe. Monica Belluchi, maybe. Kate Winslet, maybe. But not, not, not, not, NOT KIDMAN!!!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Ali says:
Ooh Kate Winslet, I wouldn't say no to her… she's such a good actress (plus, she's really pretty). I dunno about Catherine Zeta-Jones, though, everyone seems to want her ,yet she seems… off. She doesn't seem like she could pull off the bad side of Mrs. Coulter, only the good side.
I dunno, I'm still with Philip Pullman on this one.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
JV says:
As I recall Phillip Pullman's idea of Lord Asriel was Sean Connery. I'm not saying I agree with it, it's just if you want to go with Pullman's ideas like they seem to be doing with Kidman. By the way, I think The Bard said Sean Bean or Christian Bale should be Lord Asriel. I had them in mind as Lord Boreal & John Parry respectively.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
Nicole Kidman would be PERFECT for Mrs Coulter, but I somehow can't imagine Paul Bettany as Asriel – he's a great actor, but i think he's a bit too scrawny for it. i imagined Asriel being broader built. then again, i can imagine him playing Lyra's death…
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
JV says:
There is… a significant event involving Lyra in the third book. 
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
rory says:
i can understand the discrepencies over who's cast for what, but personally, i'm just very glad things finally seem to be getting under way for the movie, and a perspective release date has been set, which is definitely a good sign.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
Amen to that.
Sean Connery is a bit old for Asriel, but that's not such a bad choice….
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
freedomfighter says:
I think people are taking what PP said about Nicole Kidman out of context. He originally said something along the lines of "I see Mrs. Coulter quite like Nicole's character in To Die For". The CHARACTER. Not Nicole herself. So perhaps he had this character in mind when he wrote about Mrs. Coulter, but there's nothing to suggest he wants Nicole to actually play her.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Willl says:
Except for when he also said:
http://www.readerville.com/WebX?14@65.93OcaX9YecM^5@.ef6c70e/28
"I like the idea of Nicole Kidman as Mrs Coulter, myself."
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
David S says:
I think Jason Isaacs could make a great Lord Asriel. He's a fantastic actor, more than capable of portraying the appropriate air of arrogance, power and confidence, yet he can also portray humanity and warmth.
http://imdb.com/name/nm0005042/
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Shanna says:
Let's see if this works this time.
So – I always picture Asriel with long, dark hair and cold calculating eyes. I also always picture Mrs. Coulter with slightly curly, shiny brown hair. Of course, Lyra has blonde hair, right? Anyway, I think Paul Bettany and Nicole Kidman would do well, I would just like to see good wigs or dye jobs if they are in it.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
Rin – yeah Lyra's Death is in the third book – but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the first film will be so amazing and such a success that they'll make all three!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Ali says:
I agree with David S that Jason Isaacs would be a good choice for Lord Asriel. I really need to stop changing my opinion on this topic haha… Oh well, I'll probably like whoever they pick. I just can't wait to see the movie.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Shanna says:
Jason Isaacs would be quite good. I think we've all seen that he can really play cold and calculating characters very well!!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
yeah, Jason Issacs would be great. he just needs to adapt his character technique a little bit. has anyone noticed that most of the characters he plays are very similar? like Lucius Malfoy and the guy in The Patriot? but still, that's not a bad choice.
wow, i must be annoying you people a LOT. sorry.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
rory says:
Jason Isaacs…..hmmmmmmm. I never really put a certain actor with Asriel. I usually do that when I'm reading, but Asriel was always a tall, dark, and handsome stranger. He's a difficult character to cast.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Dustin says:
The casting of Nicole Kidman is BRILLIANT!!! That was one(out of the few) that I thought of when reading the book. Nicole can do that icy bitch type of role(To Die For is a prime example) and has the beauty to pull it off. Good choice.
Paul Bettany on the other hand worries me for the same reasons mentioned above.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Dave says:
Kidman as Coulter: Confirmed
http://filmforce.ign.com/articles/719/719186p1.html
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Jo says:
That's not confirmation, just a rehash of the Daily Mail story. It even says at the bottom it's just rumour.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Dave says:
Yep, you're right. Hey, it's IGN, who reads *any* of their articles in their entirety?
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Willl says:
It now says at the bottom it's a rumour 'cause I emailed them. :tongue:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
Yeah, I reckon Jason Isaacs could work as Asriel, but I'm not sure. I think Asriel should either be played by someone INCREDIBLY famous, because that's how Asriel is in the books – everybody knows about him and who he is. Or he should be played by a complete unknown, to bring out that kind of mysterious side he has. And yep, I agree with rory – he should be tall dark and handsome, whoever he is!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Tony says:
I would go with complete unknowns for the whole cast, that way I would be more into the moive and not the actor/actress.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
I agree, it's very hard to place an actor for Asriel. I looked at actors for weeks and couldn't find one that totally fits. but whoever plays him, he should be tall, dark, handsome, fit, and glow with confidence and drive.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
rory says:
somebody like…. well, LIKE viggo mortenson, but not him. someone more like the role he played in lotr, minus the "hiding from his destiny" glitch
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alewyn says:
Agreed. If Viggo wasn't already known I would've cast him as Asriel. We need someone with his presence.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
rory says:
Exactly. He's the closest to Asriel who already has a name known in Hollywood. Maybe I've been watching too much Pirates, but what about Jack Davenport?
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alewyn says:
Yeah, he would be good too. But everyone'd be thinking "Commodore Norrington…"
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Tony says:
I would'nt go with Jason Isaacs, Viggo, or Jack Davenport. In my oppinion Paul Bettany could do a better job then all three.
Maybe the villian from first pirates moive though (I cant recall his name, or the name of the actor).
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
No offence or anything – but I'm not exactly sure about Geoffry Rush…
But while we're on Pirates – I thought of Jonny Depp as Fra Pavel. Not how he is in Pirates, but more like he looks in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
And I think Ian McKellan would be perfect as the master of Jordan if he hadn't just played Teabing in Da Vinci Code – the roles are too similar. Everyone would just think he was being typecast.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
tony says:
Your right as I review the first moive again I see that Geoffry Rush was'nt such a good idea.
Although Jonny Depp as Fra Pavel? I'm just hopping jhonny does'nt get single part in the movie. Nothing against him it's just that in most of his movies he adds a comical edge to it, and I don't think comedy and HDM will mix very well. Although I could be wrong.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alewyn says:
Let's play a game! Everytime someone says an actor/tress, you have to say what role (s)he would fit best in your opinion. I'll go first.
Johnny Depp would be Lee.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
sorry that was my sister :wassat:. um… I think Jasson Issac could be a good Asriel or even Faa; and Jasson can handel alot of make up. And if they hadn't gotten Dakota Richards I think a good Lyra could have been Evanna Lynch. She's the girl that got the role of Luna Loovegood in the Potter movie. But if they chosse Pual Bettnay as Asriel I won't be in tottal dienal. He sounds like a good actor. As to Nicole Kidman she will be a really good Mrs. Coulter.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
if they were in the 2nd movie I think a really good actor for will can be Barney Clark, Harry Eden, Lewis Chase, or Theodore Chester. But then again it may be two more years till they start filming the Subtel Knife. I just wanted to know what you guys thought. As of Claire Higgens being MA Costa I think a better actress would be Helena Bonham-Carter but who ever they chose for the whole movie I don't care i'm just glad they are starting and have a projected realse date. And Wytchbabi I kinda like your Rebal attitude. . Man I am sorry for writing a lot it's just that i just got on and i don't want to forget anything.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
Sorry this will be the last time. :wassat: :laughing:. I think in stead of Helena Bonham-Carter playing Ma Costa (like I said at first) I think she will be much better at playing Serafina Pekkala. Ok I'll shut up… for now. Sorry.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alewyn says:
I like Helena Bonham-Carter. I'd probably have to put her as Serafina over Ma Costa too.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alewyn says:
I've been running around the TGC IMDb page…did anyone notice that they have it listed to be filmed in Worcester College, Oxford?
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
Lo' Alewyn. I looked at IMDb because of what you said but I didn't see anything about part of I being filmed at Worcester College, Oxford. As For Lord Asriel what about Gary Oldman or Ralph Fiennes…it's just a suggestion. I need to get off this thing :wassat:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Willl says:
Chris Weitz mentioned in his interview with us that he's been to Worcester College to discuss filming there. Presumably that still stands.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Tony says:
Ralph Fiennes as Asriel might be good, but I am NOT choosing him for the part he played in Harry Potter.(I am a long time shall we say not H,P fan)
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
This is an idea for a cast list i came up with a while ago:
Lord Asriel – Clive Owen or whoever
Mrs. Coulter – Kate Winslet
The Master – Ian McKellen
John Faa – Sean Connery
Lee Scoresby – Viggo Mortensen
Serafina Pekkala – Estella Warren or whoever
Juta Kamainen – Keira Knightly
Lord Boreal – Anthony Hopkins
waddya think? :wassat:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
nice choices Wytchbabi. Gives a nice mix of old and new actor/actress. Just like Lyra's world is made out of old and new. This is mine:
Lord Asriel – Ralph Fiennes
Mrs. Coulter – Nicole Kidman
The Master – Ben Kingsley
John Faa – Jasson Issac
Lee Scoresby – pual Bettany or someone new
Serafina Pekkala – Helena Bonham-Carter
Juta Kamainen – Helen McCrory
Lord Boreal – Johnny Depp
Roger – Theodore Chester
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
OK then, I'll add my list, too:
Lord Asriel – Some completely unknown actor
Mrs. Coulter – I have to agree with Pullman that Ncole Kidman would suit the role perfectly.
The Master – Ian McKellen
John Faa – Actually maybe Ian McKellan could play him instead…
Lee Scoresby – Paul Bettany
Serafina Pekkala – The one out of Da Vinci Code
Juta Kamainen – Catherine Zeta-Jones
Lord Boreal – Perhaps Ian Lee?
I'm not sure – you may all totally disagree and think I'm bonkers, but never mind.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
OOOOOOOOOOOOH!!! Audrey Tateu as Serafina?!?! hm………..methinks we likes it precious…
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alewyn says:
But for mine you have to pretend that their not already well known and that I'm not choosing them just because I'm in love with most of them…
Coulter: Kidman
Asriel: Viggo <3
Lyra/Will: Unknowns
John Faa: Jeremy Irons
Lee: David Wenham (don't ask…)
Baruch/Balthamos: Ewan McGregor and/or Elijah Wood and/or Hugh Dancy
The Master: Pullman himself
Serafina: Helena Bonham-Carter
Mary Malone: Rachel Weisz
John Parry: Sean Penn
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
Alewyn: Yeah I like the idea of Ewan McGregor as Baruch or Balthamos, but I'm not too convinced about Elijah Wood. No offence.
Although I did think that, should they go on to make all the books into films, the main guy out of Full Monty (sorry I can't remember his name) would be a good choice for John Parry.
And Julie Andrews would be good as Ma Costa. As for Metatron I think he needs to be somebody young. Someone who can just ooze sex. Can anyone think of someone?
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
Alewyn: I agree with MCH that Ewan would make a wounderful Baruch or Balthamos but not Mister Wood. MCH: Your choice for Ma Costa Being Julie Andrews I don't really like. Now don't get me wroung I love Julie Andrews movie's ecept that I don't think she fits the charter of Ma Costa. Whenever I thought of Ma Costa I pictured her darkley tan as thought she is ALWAYS out on the boat. Plus I Thought of her being slightly heavy set but yet has some build and also gives you the sense that you don't want to mess with her (think about when Ma Costa shoke Lyra after Roger went missing.). Finally that once you get to know her you see her soft Motherly side and she is in her Mid-forty's. And as for the Metatron what about Hayden Christensen.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
mapthestars: Sorry – momentary brain lapse – I didn't mean Julie Andrews I meant Julie Walters. Oh the shame! Sorry.
But I'm not sure about Hayden Christensen – his face is to kind of soft, and they need someone whose face has a harder profile. So he can ooze rough, powerful sex, not nice sweet sex among the daisies. Like Ryan Phillippe in Crual Intentions.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Tony says:
Anone else see this.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0385752/fullcredits
Adam Godley …. Pantalaimon
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
Its ok MCH we all have brain farts :wassat: :laughing: :tongue:. At first when I read your post I thought you said Walters too but then I did a double take and saw Andrews. But I agree with you now that Julie Walters would make a PERFECT Ma Costa. and any ways that's what were here for, to find our brain farts . As for the Metatron I will ask my Sister.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
Tony: yeah I seen that before on the 22 of July when Alewyn mentioned that they listed part of it to be filmed at Worcester College, Oxford but I thought that was old news. Obvilsly it is not from your reaction. MCH: I asked my sister and all she said was Jhonny Depp and Orlando Bloom but I don't like either of them. :wassat:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Ted says:
I'd rather see Jon English as John Faa he's got that gypsy look and is a wonderful actor too.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
i still say that Sean Connery would be perfect for John Faa.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
Wytchbabi: Nah, I can't say I'm all that keen on Sean Connery – he says 'sh' instead of 's' all the time. I know it's a petty thing to bother about, but I want these movies to be just right.
Mapthestars: Nah you're right, Jonny Depp has too much of a fan culture to play Metatron – the true 'bad guy'. And Orlando Bloom just looks too soft. Metatron needs to be ruggedly good-looking (kinda like Viggo Mortensen) but young, and just OOOZING sex and passion, (maybe like Colin Firth in the famous 'look' – across the room in Pride and Prejudice – if you don't know what I'm talking about watch the bbc pride and prejudice NOW!!!). But he also needs to be young and sexy, like Ryan Phillippe in Crual Intentions.
So, at the moment Metatron is being played by a cross between Viggo Mortensen, Colin Firth and Ryan Phillippe. Hmmmmm…… Could be tricky…… :wassat:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
mapthestars says:
MCH: OK. ( runs to the Blockerbuster Video store to see pride and…) but Based on the google images I see what you mean.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alewyn says:
Mmmmmmmmm I love love love Colin Firth as Darcy
With Metatron I always imagined him really skeevy and gross. Like that guy nobody wants to see but he's always there and flirty and gross.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
what about Jude Law as Metatron? he's not exactly evil, but he's a good enough actor he might be able to pull it off. besides, he oozes sexuality. :wassat:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
Good thing we have Michael Jackson on the story board:
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0413808/
(I have changed my name from Tony to Arriving Somewhere (but not here)(the name of my favorite Porcupine tree song ) that's the only real reason I posted here)
Well see ya
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Karen O says:
Nicole Kidman is a devout Catholic, I don't she'd act in a movie where God is evil – at least if they don't change that.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
Wow I never thought that was the reason she was taking so long to to give the part a yes or a no, but now that I have heard that I bet she is going to decline.
Religion is a tough issue for people.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
But surely (and please don't shoot me if you disagree – I know lots of people will cinvict me of sacrilage for even suggesting this ) the books aren't actually anti-religious?
Surely they're only against the corruption of the Church's authority. I never saw them as being against God – that's why he's called the Authority, rather than just out-and-out God.
Sorry if I've made you all hate me… :wassat:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
Your right for the most part, but most people are not able to come out side their pointless anger and look past the fact that the church is evil in this book and see the metaphor (or simili or watever) and find the undeniable truth.
That is religion corrupt, you just see it by the way they acted when this book came out.
Although I would concider this book anti religion, everything in the book shouts it (I even think I remeber a interview I read were Pullman said the books were anti – religion). Everything else is right on though.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
Wait I have something even better to say on this subject.
The book is not a the church is evil lets burn it to the ground kinda book, (which some people seem to think it is) it's a make your own belifes pave your own path kind of book.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
does anyone know an actress who could be Mrs. Coulter who isn't insanely religious? Kate Winslet maybe?
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
MCH says:
I don't see why being religious should have to stop Nicole Kidman playing Mrs Coulter. I mean, if you look at it in basic terms, Mrs Coulter is a misguided mother who wants to care for her daughter. What's anti-religious about that? And in the end she dies for her daughter, which is self-sacrifice -the whgole Bible is about self-sacrifice anyway, so it is actually promoting the morality of religion.
Anyway, Nicole's played a prostitute before in Moulin Rouge, and that's hardly a religious role.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
Well, Kidman may find HDM offensive to her religious beliefs. remember the uproar the books first caused amoung the Catholics? but if she can put that aside and just act, then she should be fine.
(by the by, she was a courtesan in Moulin Rouge, it's different from a prostitute.)
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
I'll tell you what is anti-religious about it. First off when coulter is evil in the book she is working for a very evil church making Kidman go against her church driven belifes in movie 1 + 2. Then when Coulter finally does turn good she moves to save Eve, which is everything the church is against.
Although you are right about the prostitute thing, but I still doubt she will take the part. As the Article says above the very untrust worthy Daily Mail, has been claiming, she was going to take the role even before the film had a dircter.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
baz bamigboye says:
You write that the Daily Mail has a habit of making up stories.I'm sure you will give equal space to an apology when New Line announce that Nicole Kidman will be playing the role of Mrs Coulter, and they will certainly be issuing a statement to that effect before shooting commences.I wrote the article for the Daily Mail and you can be certain that it is 100 per cent accurate.Baz Bamigboye.Daily Mail London.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Wytchbabi says:
Courtesan. COURTESAN. Satine was a COURTESAN, not a prostitute.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Willl says:
Baz – I certainly will. Let me explain myself.
Nicole Kidman\’s involvement has been a constant rumour since the film was announced. She\’s been reported as having taken the role all around the internet in various papers and sites for years now. It rather wears one down.
You\’ve written pieces on her several times now being in negotiations and we\’ve heard nothing from New Line – it\’s just when you assert things like \”it\’s official\”\” and we\’ve heard absolutely nothing (and sometimes sources aren\’t even mentioned) that I still make sure to place it firmly in the rumour camp. Especially when no-one else has reported on it either; the old two-sources rule. (The Sun think she\’s pregnant too it seems by the way; that\’d rather scupper things.)
Sorry if you\’ve taken offence – my dislike of the Mail stems from its politics, not the entertainment sections. My email\’s there if you want to discuss further.
If I had Nicole Kidman signed for my film, I\’d be shouting about it!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alice says:
I find all the comments funny about how Nicole Kidman being a Catholic would stop her taking a role. Nicole Kidman has taken roles that have more or less damned humanity in Dogville, called into question some rules of society regarding love and marriage in EWS and Birth and if anyone commenting here had actually watched her work or listened to what she says about her work, they will realise that a book like HDM is one that would spur Kidman on, the HDM books are about ideas on religion, Kidman's filmography is filled with movies trying out ideas, causing discussions, debate, etc.
Being Catholic has never affected her work, it certainly didn't stop her doing The Others where she played a mother who was a devout believer but in the end couldn't say if she believed in a God she had prayed to all her life.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alice says:
Give the woman a little credit, lol and hasn't the script been wiped clean of anything that might cause religious furore?
And since when is Kidman insanely religious or a devout catholic, anyone ever heard her spouting her beliefs out there? According to her, she is a Catholic who goes to Mass when she can, let's not get carried away by mistaking what is written by the likes of Page Six to what she actually says she is doing, she is not thumping her bible over anyone's head.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Alice says:
And Baz should understand why there is sceptism regarding his claims, the entertainment/showbiz section of the Daily Mail is as bad as the rest of the paper with Nicole Lampert being the worst example of what a reporter or journalist should be, I guess the National Enquirer refused to offer her a job. They can't get simple facts right so Baz (he actually is more often that not spot on since he actually SPEAKS to the people involved) shouldn't perhaps take it personally if we choose to wait for New Line to tell us what is happening and since Baz seems to be the only one claiming she is now officially signed, I will wait till New Line releases a statement. Last year the DM and Evening Standard claimed Kidman was returning to the stage, they even gave the name of the play! and we know how that turned out and what was the big deal about her moving to the UK, is she meant to be commuting from Nashville to the UK to shoot her scenes, talk about a waste of column? All these reports from Bamigboye smells like someone wanting to claim exclusive rights to a story unfortunately we now have countless websites who do cut and paste jobs and have his claims everywhere.
And for the person posting about her supposed pregnancy causing problems for the shoot, she wouldn't be the first pregnant actress to work on a filmset, would she? they have ways of making it work.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
To Alice: I sure hope the script has'nt been wiped clean of anything that might cause religious furore.
Otherwise this moive will be just another movie (nah it will still be amazing).
And I must addmit I have commented without seeing all of her movies.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
July says:
I didn't read the books, I don't know the story of His Dark Materials, but I read all the comments and I just want to give my opinion about the cast: the more important is that actors are GOOD, and it's a great chance to see Nicole Kidman AND Paul Bettany! Be reassured: Paul Bettany, who doesn't look like the Silas of the book, has created one of the best character of this movie. I'm sure that he'll do the best job again as Asriel, especially if this character must be powerful, tall and handsome…
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
More news on Kidman:
http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=15764
comingsoon.net is usualy pretty reliable
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Willl says:
I think we can all bow down to Baz now.
http://www.bridgetothestars.net/news/1154357209
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
simple says:
i thought lord asriel was supposed to be good-looking? and where did they find that random? Im not happy with him, if he does take the role, but i suppose if he is a good enough actor and is loveable and hateable at the same time, i might accept him as lord asriel lol
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Adiam21 says:
i hope paul bettany is just a bad joke.i think asriel is a little bit older,dark hair.if they want a good asriel they should take hugh jackman or william snow,but bettany??that must be a joke .
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
simple says:
here her Adiam! Bring on something we can look at when he acts!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
simple says:
i meant to say 'here here' unfortunatly im as good at typing as my dog is. *shakes head in shame*
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
Paul Bettany is an amizing actor and could perfectly well handle the part, with his hands tied behind his back, and his EYES SHUT!!!
:angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry: :angry:
WHO CARES ABOUT WHAT THEY LOOK LIKE, IT'S THE ACTING SKILLS THAT MATTER THE MOST!!!! The looks are just the icing on the cake.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
simple says:
well thats true too, and he probably is really good, but when youre dealing with such a huge film like this, and with everyone having read the book, its extremely important to get the right looking character. I know me and sisters have totally different views of him, but they have to try and get an actor that fits it generally, for when it comes for other people to read it they will have that actors face stuck in their minds for that person. Thats how it was with HP and such.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
Most of the people who are going to see the movie probably, will not have read the book. HDM is not nearly as popular as HP (although I wish it was).
Images can easily be changed, for Ex: I could'nt imaginge Toby Maguire playing Spider-Man, but now when I see his face the first thing that comes to mind is Spider-Man.
And as I have said before the acting skills are more important then the looks. I would rather have a bunch of actors who dont look the part at all, but really can act their part and, bring to life the emotional sacle of this film.
Then a bunch of look alike crap actors who will litterally destroy HDM.
In the end what relly makes a film great is the actors who can portray the emotions of the character to perfection, and really bring out the emotions of the viewer, not LOOKS!!!
One more thing Simple: Find me one person who will take the looks over the acting and I will agree with you. But I doubt anyone here is that shallow. (at least I hope not). :wassat:
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Arriving Somewhere (but not here) says:
Add this to my post below (man I wish they had an edit thing around here):
When an actor is good he will make you belive that he actually is that character, he will change your idea about what that character looks like, for those two hours in your mind he will become the character.
Agian looks are alright, but they hold little depth, and in the long run you the need depth to hold your attention (at least I know I do).
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
jon says:
I kind of agree with 'Arriving etc', but i also agree with 'simple'. Looks dont make the character, but they do enhance them. I think they do need to look like as described, but must also act as described, otherwise getting the part is pointless.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
simple says:
look, i just said that they need to get lookalike characters, i wasnt taking away from the fact that they still need to be able to act for gods sake!
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link
Youli Liu says:
I think Nicole Kidman is the most beautiful woman in the world,especially her movies,I like them very much.
March 28, 2007 5:47 pm | link
Antonio says:
Long Blowjob Videos…
gel pens, roller ball pens, mechanical pencils
…
Comment February 2, 2008 12:12 pm | link
Paul Bettany? That is a very interesting choice, however, I did picture my own Lord Asriel to be older than him. At least it looks as though more people could be signing on which is a good thing! I am starting to get excited.
July 31, 2010 7:08 am | link