Read more on the CBBC site.
October 30, 2006
Dakota Blue Richards Photo
The first official picture of Dakota Blue Richards, who plays Lyra in The Golden Compass, has today been released by the New Line. She is seen in the photo with her on screen mother Mrs Coulter (Nicole Kidman). Feel free to discuss this more in the [link=http://www.bridgetothestars.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=203504]relevant thread[/link] on the message boards.
Read more on the CBBC site.
Read more on the CBBC site.
Social Networking 
|
132 Comments:
Post your own!Please keep comments on topic - we have a message board for general discussion.
BantamBuyer says:
At last!!!
She looks excellent – shame it's not a full face picture though.
Everyone will have in their own minds an ideal image of how Lyra looks to them and I'm sure Dakota won't be exactly the same as that picture, but she looks ideal to me and I'm sure that very soon she will be the image of Lyra that everyone has.
Incidentally, I'm also impressed with the look between Mrs Coulter and Lyra. The picture really highlights the scary nature of the relationship between them.
Good luck Dakota and bring on the film
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Eyes says:
Wow, New Line put out an official photo already?!?!?!?!? There are really going to push this puppy. Which is good.
Oh and I love the photo. Nicole looks so perfectly icy and evil. And Dakota is so cute. Nice to finally get a good look at her.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Alewyn says:
I would just like to note that I went to see the National Theatre's Production of HDM. I also live in America and spent 6 months of my life convincing my parents to bring me. :wassat:
Of course she doesn't look like I thought she did but, whatever, it happens. She and Nicole kinda look alike. That's good! And yes, I am forcing optimism out of myself.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Sarah says:
This is a really annoying photo, it's so hard to get a real idea of how she looks just from her profile. I'm concerned by the curly hair, but otherwise I'll reserve any real opinions for a proper photograph.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
PanFan says:
Isn't Mrs. Coulter supposed to have dark hair? Other than that, perfect! You can see Lyra's all made up like a little doll. From the sparkling dress that Kidman has on, I'm guessing it's the cocktail party. Can't wait for more pics!!!! :laughing:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
MysticT says:
You're right, in the book she really has dark hair, bis as Lyra´s mother a light hair color is more believable.
The both look like i´ve ever imagined them^^ Great work, can´t wait for the movie to arrive here in germany…but this will take lot of time 
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Annabel says:
OMG!!!! Yay finally a pic of Dakota! She looks a little older than I imagined, but then again it's just a side view. This is either at the c'tail party, or maybe at the start when lyra first meets mrs coulter over dinner? Dunno, they've got it brilliant anyway 
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Adiam21 says:
@MysticT
Sag bloß du bist aus Deutschland,Cool Ja das ist wirklich blöd das man hier so lange warten muss.Ich hab ja nur Angst das die Synchro schlecht ist.
Yes a picture of Lyra.From the side I cannot recognise a lot. So I do not want to "exile" her also immediately, am curious,how her whole face looks. But the teamwork of her and Nicole looks very good. Although,I will probably never stop to fancy Catherine Zeta-Jones :crying:. And anyhow I do not manage yet with Nicols colour of hair and hair length. :crying:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
the serpent says:
OMG!!!! fianlly here!! Cant really see her face but expected more blonde hair :crying:
but you cant have everything, its different for everyone. 
Mrs Coutler look sooo evil
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Vaka says:
amazing. the chemistry between the characters…this is turning out so amazingly perfect…
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
hoobits says:
Well it is something… Still quite a tease but certainly, as I expected, Dakota as Lyra is at least in the ballpark in terms of looks for the fans, I think.
Those curls are probably indeed for the cocktail party.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Hazel.. says:
At long last. We have a photograph.
Not exactly a facial shot, but at least we can see Lyra. The most annoying thing is that my anticipation was built up so much- now i can finally see her all i can feel is hate for New Line. But i'll shut up and continue talking xD
From what i can see, she looks pretty good. The curly hair is probably because, as PanFan said- she's all "made up" at Mrs Coulter.
I'm content.
MORE PHOTOS PLEASE!
xxxx
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
silversong says:
Darn. Niether of them look the way I imagined them. Lyra I can deal with, Coulter definitely has dark hair in the books. That's why it's clear Lyra takes after her father, because he's blond, and Coulter is brunette. Darn.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Wixer says:
I know this is about Dakota and all but I just can't get over the perfect look on Nicole's face.
Ugh, she was born to play Mrs. Coulter.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
catherine says:
hmmmm.. doesn't look exactly like i imagined her, curly hair esp. but u cant have everything, can u? The tension btween the two characters is great. looking 4ward to more piccies, mayb face on?
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Wixer says:
I know this is about Dakota and all but I just can't get over the perfect look on Nicole's face.
Ugh, she was born to play Mrs. Coulter.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
HDM Head 24-7 says:
I could go and say that i think Dakota is bad or is not the way i pictured her, but i kinda feel bad for her. She has so much pressure on her. About half the world will go into this movie hateing her already cause she doesn't "look like what they pictured" Props to her, and im sure shell be great
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
rats_rox says:
I'm not saying that I would of looked better or anything but, as always, they mucked up my fav character AGAIN!!! Im sorry but not how i imagined her – sorry dakota. Also is it just me or is the whole this WAY to 1920s?
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Witchdoctor says:
Dakota looks different than I would have pictured, but I think it works really well. Nicole Kidman looks amazing too. I can't wait for the movie!!!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Link says:
All these people bashing the way characters look just because it's not what YOU thought it was going to look like make me laugh. Just because the filmmakers cannot read your mind doesn't give you a reason to hate. Nor does it mean that every other person feels the same as you.
Grow up.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Lu says:
First time I'm posting, but if I don't do it today I never will!
Yes, I'm still hoping the curls are for the party look. Yes, Marisa has dark hair in the books. And no character will ever look the way we ALL imagined them.
But, MY GOD. Nicole looks perfect. She's got that grace and viciousness right beneath the surface, that authority, the saccharine sweetness going on like crazy in that ONE look at Lyra. And Dakota – she makes Lyra look here like a girl who will stare down anybody. Like she can see straight through her mother's intentions. Like she's a liar. She has the face of an angel and the mind of a devil working underneath it, JUST as I pictured her.
This goes so far beyond mere physical appearance for me – if they GET the character, and from this picture I judge that they do, it is more than enough. These are complicated characters, and we need strong actors to deliver those performances in all their nuance. I already had faith in Nicole. But Dakota looks like a little actress too, and THANK GOD for that.
By the way, anybody besides me just besotted with the lighting in this picture? If the movie looks like this, I'll be in heaven.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Saint says:
I'm not sure, she looks a little young, she looks maybe 8 years old when she's supposed to be 12/13.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Violet says:
Wow! That look is just perfect! Really captures the momment and everything! Curly hair not really how I imagined it. Still great, not everything can be just how it's described in the book. Hope more pics come out soon.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Lily says:
I don't think the hair is just for the party. If you look at some of the previous pictures taken, there are some of Dakota's double who has curly hair. Just a thought. :wassat:
Not that I'm concerned about the appearance that much, it's all about the performance. Just hope it lives up to what we're all hoping for!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Gus says:
I can't really tell what she looks like from this picture. I think she looks good though.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Galadriel says:
It is like they are teasing us. They finally release a picture and you can hardly tell what they look like.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
butterfly says:
she looks great! she does look a little young to me, but i didn't excpect her to look exactly the way i imagined. anyway, it's more of how good she is at acting then what she looks like. coulter looks perfect, though, exactly the way i imagined!!!!! this is GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!! i've been wanting to see a picture FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!! good luck dakota!!!!!!!!!! :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Ethan says:
I just love Nicole Kidman. She has the most expressive eyes in all of her films, and here is no exception. Can't wait to see her here.
And Dakota looks perfect! Now I want to see Daniel Craig in costume!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Corsair of Umbar says:
Fabulous! I knew Nicole was a great choice for Coulter. And Dakota looks awesome, too: A devilish angel, is what she is.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Andreons says:
AT LAST! Nicole is superbe, I have always known that. About Dakota I think that Saint is right, she seems too young but it's hard to judge someone just by a picture.
I hope to see other photos of her!!New Line, don't be scroogeeeee
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
*Aurora*Traveller* says:
Ugh! Coulter has dark hair! Otherwise, I think it's pretty good. I almost like Dakota already, even though I'm totally against making a HDM movie.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
vee says:
this is probably irrelevant, but..isn't "on screen mother" a tad spoilery? but i guess non-readers haven't really found this site yet…
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Viggo says:
Dakota looks cute! And Nicole looks beautiful as always and it looks as if she really has Mrs. Coulter pinned down. Not that I ever worried about that in the first place.
This is looking better and better by the day. I don't know if I can wait a whole year, lol.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Chaos Evo says:
Dakota looks pretty good as Lyra, and I'm looking foward to seeing a full face picture. Kidman IS Coulter! She has that Coulter-ish look down! Can't wait to see more!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Kelsey says:
Hmmm…Dakota looks a little too angelic for me, but hopefully in her acting she'll bring out the fiesty and devilish side of Lyra.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Matt says:
This picture looks great. Everything looks perfect. Can't wait to see more!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Silvertounge says:
I LOVE HER! SHE'S PERFECT! THEY ARE BOTH PERFECT! I CAN'T WAIT!!! Okay, I'm done screaming!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
A/C says:
For some reason, I never read the part in the book where it said that Mrs. Coulter had dark hair, so I always thought she was blonde… But anyways, I believe that Dakota will be a very good Lyra.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Azazel says:
absolutely fantastic
o and guys how many people are going to worry whether Mrs. Coulter has dark hair or blonde when the movie comes out? o right. .00001%. If you're that fanatical about it, you need to obsess over something else. Like a life. Looks great though.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Lizzy says:
WOOHOO! Piccy! We LIKE piccys! Wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful!
I'm calm.
…Kind of.
And although I am fully aware that the books say Mrs. Coulter is dark-haired, I always imagined her as blond. Besides, how do two dark-haired people have a blonde kid? Anyway. Wonderful wonderful wonderful!
I guess that's it for being calm.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Damian! says:
OMG! i almoust die when i see the pic! it is just perfect! i cant wait to see the movie!
i am new! but i dont speak very well englihs! :wassat:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Steph says:
I think they both look absolutely AMAZING! This is all I hoped it would be… so far. Good luck to both of them, and the rest of the cast and crew. They'll do great!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Glitzglamsteph says:
Woo well don dakota u did it 
i hope u enjoy the filming good luck to you
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Mr Anderson says:
That photo, I believe is taken at the dinner party at Jordan College, when Coulter and Lyra first meet. In the background is the Master, Lyras hair looks as if it has been brushed coursely (and in a hurry). If it was Coulters Party, then her hair would be a lot more tidy. Notice also the gold glasses, such as those found in Jordan.
Now I think it fairly cruel, that some people are already jumping to insult this poor girl. She has the weight of millions of fans on her shoulders while you just sit back and complain. Pullman himself commented that he would have picked her, before he knew the actual choice. And if anyone knows Lyra, its the very person that created her.
Not to mention he also picked Kidman out as his choice for Coulter. Now let me say this about the hair colour – who honestly cares? Why worry about something so trivial when you should worry about her ability to play Coulter? But then how can you? That picture pretty much tells us she has got it right. The expressionism is spot on for both Lyra and Coulter in the context.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Schrodinger's Cat says:
Mr Anderson, you have hit the nail squarely on its head. Bravo, my friend! Philip Pullman created Lyra and if he's happy with Ms Richards, then the naysayers are being very immature. Besides, it's not like the filmmakers are rewriting the books. They'll always be exactly as you left them, and every time you reread Mr Pullman's stories, you can imagine Lyra any way you like. >^_~<
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Entilzha says:
Marvelous photo. And kudos for showing it to us!! As for the curly hair…I think Lyra's hair is at least partly curly, I am almost certain I remember a passage…maybe in The Amber Spyglass…about her dark blonde curls but I may be wrong about that.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Hazel.. says:
I do think people should stop being pinickity about Nicole's hair colour, and the fact that Dakota's hair is curly.
I am going to quote what Cornelia Funke said when she read the criticisms on the casting of "Inkheart" being made, as i think this could also apply to His Dark Materials and some of the pinickity comments people have been posting when they haven't been over-the-moon about the casting-
"Be prepared that there may be more casting decisions where the faces
don`t match your imagination! They sometimes won`t match mine. But the only thing that matters is whether the actors will be good enough to
portrait the heart and spirit of a character. The movie will never match your imagination. The movie will be my story told by other artists, so keep your imagination and have an open heart when you watch the movie. Is there anything more exiting than a story living many lives, a story being sung by many many different voices?"
-Applauds Cornelia- Don't you all agree? xD
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
chicara says:
saw this article in the times today. it doesn't say anything new, but here you go anyway: http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,14931-2429322,00.html
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Alewyn says:
Entilzha- Yeah, in TAS when Coulter takes a lock of her hair it's clearly stated that it's a "curl"
But still, she kind of reminds me of a Dr. Seuss character… :tongue:
Nicole looks perfect anyways!!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
non-member says:
dakota looks like a cabbage patch doll. hate it.
kidman was born to play the part though. and i too say coulter with blonde hair, even though the book said otherwise…funny, i even pictured kidman playing her even before i heard pf the movie
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
stupidhead says:
I have seen Dakota, in pictures other than this! And believe me, i'm as picky as they come about people looking right, and she is perfect.
My friend is working on the principle production photgraphy, and he had a few photos and a short video of rehersals, which understandably aren't allowed for public consumption but she seemed really feisty and funny but at the same time quite sweet.
And don't worry about her being to young, the 'dolled up' look emphasises her youth, but in normal dress she looks spot on.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Skye says:
What I can't get over is the fact that she resembles me at that age… So if I was only four years younger and lived in England… Yeah. Wishful thinking!
But really, I think she looks terrific!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
mysterygal says:
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!
FINALLY!!!after alllll of this waiting,a pic of her!!!!!!!!!AHHHHHH!!!(Sorry im just a 'little' excited)
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
holycleopatra says:
The funny thing about this is that you can definately tell what scene this is in the book. It's obviously where Marissa and Lyra meet.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Veronica says:
When I first saw Dakota, I felt a little disappointed like a lot of people because she doesn't look like my idea of the perfect Lyra. On the plus side, she looks like someone from a Botticelli painting. Also, this is just her profile, we haven't seen her full range of expression so it's difficult to have a full formed opinion.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
stfletch says:
If, as most people seem to believe, this is where Lyra first meets Mrs Coulter, then presumably that is the Master in the background. Does anyone know yet who is playing that part because to me (even though he is a bit blurred in the pic) it looks like it could be Simon Callow.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Elanorielle says:
Hm, they're wonderful. =)
Well, I even can submit Kidman's blonde hair!
But this curly little girl… Well, I can imagine that so she looked when she stayed at the house of Mrs. Coulter, but I hope they won't always make her those curls! She's not a Barbie!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
f says:
stfletch: according to wikipedia the Master is being played by an actor called Jack Shephard. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/His_Dark_Materials:_Northern_Lights
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Lizzietiffon01 says:
:tongue: :tongue: :tongue:
hey! Finally a pic of Dakota! Nichole Kidman has that look just right! She seems to have immersed herself in the role of Mrs Coulter and that look is so her! As 4 Dakota, even if she doesn't strike me as Lyra straight away, that is probably coz she is doing that blatant-defiant-blank and plain look to stare out Mrs Coulter. That look 4 Lyra is brilliant. u can tell from the picture that Dakota is a very talented actress-she has complete control over her face. It's great that she's so committed to getting Lyra's character right and is doing an amazing job! u can see how they are mother and daughter-so like each other.
as 4 Dakota having curls; would Lyra really CARE about wot her hair looked like?
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Mr Anderson says:
Yes Coulters hair was in fact black, they had their reasons for changing it I am sure. It doesn't bother me that its blonde, nor should it bother anyone, that is simply nit picking.
For the final time, Lyra DID have curly hair.
When Marisa takes a locke of her hair it is clearly stated that it is a Curl.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Ogunwe says:
Lyra had curly hair, you should read hdm more carefully.
She and kidman, both look brilliant!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
katherine says:
on the subject of lyra's curls, i think people are maybe thinking of the US covers of TSK and TAS? since in those it kind of looks like lyra "should" have straight hair.
i dunno, just a thought!
as for dakota, <i>perfect</i>. i've never been able to clearly picture lyra, but she seems to be as close as anything i've ever thought of. i think she's going to do a great job. look at that facial expression! i mean.. it's like they've both got this "okay, cut the crap" thing going on. i love it.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Rin says:
you're right! she does kinda look like a dr. suess character….
I always imagined coulter with blond hair, even though it said dark. i wonder why…
i always imagined lyra as wavy hair, but not like that! i say her hair is way to curly!
yes, i know, i shouldn't be mean to her, but still……her hair is to curly!!!!
i'm HYPER!!! yesterday was halloween!!! i collected over 150 pieces of candy. if you don't celebrate halloween, to bad for you! i'm HYPER!! sorry i'll calm down now.
everyone probably thinks i'm crazy! but i'm not! this is just how i am when i'm hyper :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing: :laughing:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Alewyn says:
…I. Love. Halloween.
and, you know, some random comment to do with Dakota and Nicole
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
natalieK says:
I love it! Nicole Kidman is *perfect* for Mrs. Coulter and lyra is just right. can't waint for the movie
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
mysterygal says:
hey everyon!i tried to post a news letter of the following but my computer is stupid and it wont let me.anyway…here is a life size polar bear wearing armor-i think it lorek 'cause the armor is all rusty and stuff:
http://www.wetaworkshop.co.nz/resources/images/gallery/fullsize/PolarBear001_522w.jpg
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Witch-girl says:
Ah, Mysterygal, what a wonderful picture that one there is! :tongue: Good job!
Now, if we could only see a picture of young Dakota Blue Richards facing us head-on… :wassat:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Alewyn says:
Isn't that the same bear from that one time?
If anyone remember/understands that, you rock :tongue:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
glittercloud says:
i think it's just great. I think a full on picture would be more useful though. I got a full on picture but it turns out it's just a double…
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Mockingbird says:
Yes, Alewyn, its the bear from that one time, a long time ago.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
KittyKat: says:
Wow. It just hit me how much she in't my Lyra. Okay, now I'm going to decipher her acting ability using only her facial expression and surroundings in a freeze-frame shot. Wish me luck.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
mogglemoose says:
i mean, i pictured lyra 2 have wavy hair but not THAT curly, lol. And her face is abit too chubby… otherwise, quite good!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
MCH says:
*sarcastic sigh* I'm so glad people aren't prejudging DBR…
But on a serious not, I think she looks pretty cool for Lyra – maybe not exactly how I imagined her, but then Viggo Mortensen wasn't exactly how I imagined Aragorn, but he turned out to be GREAT!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
mysterygal says:
thnx everyone.im kinda new so i didnt know.
anyway,i REALLY dont want to be mean or anything but i think that dakota chin sticks out a little to much…IM SO SORRY DAKOTA!!!!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Ali says:
Yay DBR I think she'll make a great Lyra–after all, Pullman thinks she's perfect for the role, so that's good enough for me. And people: yeesh, she's not going to look exactly as you imagined her, but give her a chance… the poor girl doesn't need this kind of criticism from fellow fans of the books. She hasn't even gotten the chance to prove how good an actress she is and people are already judging her.
And is it just me, or is Nicole's facial expression *perfect* for Coulter? That just made me so happy right there.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
mysterygal says:
your right….sorry…
and its not just you,nicole HAS got the perfect expression!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
crazy_stunt_girl says:
WOW. Spot on the expressions for both of them! Can't wait for this movie. But do any of you know if Kidman is pregnant? The earlier pictures of her definitly show her with a baby bump. Just wondering…
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Azeria says:
but i think that dakota chin sticks out a little to much…
Dude you're an idiotl. Ibet your face isn't perfect…
being played by an actor called Jack Shephard
omg you are kidding right? Jack Shephard???
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Mad Larkin 619 says:
Jack Shephard am I missing something here because I have no clue who Jack Shephard is. Anyway I think Kidman would look better with light hair than dark and I always thought Lyra's hair was straight.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
orange says:
I don't know what to say… i don't like nicole as coulter, SHE ISN'T BLOND… but dakota, i don't know. her hair isn't supposed to be curly, and… i just need to see a front view i guess. we'll see.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Mr Anderson says:
AAAAAHHH!!
Lyra had curly hair!! Read HDM again :tongue:
Damn these American paperbacks. :laughing:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
KittyKat: says:
See that little shadow cast by one of her curls, on her upper cheek? That's preventing us seeing her cheek and under eye shape. We need a shadowless front picture to see her properly.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Elanorielle says:
Hey, people, we know that Lyra has curly hair, but can you pretend that a girl that spend most of the time in the movie travelling has tidy light curls as if she had just went to the hairdressers's! =)
I just hope that she won't look like that all the time!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Hazel.. says:
Oh my lord, people are now picking on Dakota's chin sticking out too much! Leave the poor girl alone, for goodness sake. She might have curly hair in the whole film, or just for a few scenes. Her chin may stick out a little bit (though, that comment to me makes no sense at all- I think her chin is perfectly normal) but what you should all be concerned about is whether she can act well, regardless of her looks.
Even if she was a purple skinned girl with blue hair and orange eyes (okay, i'm over dramatising a little here but you get the picture) it doesn't matter what she looks like, as long as she can portray the heart and spirit of Lyra. THAT'S what we should all be worrying about. I'm sure she's a great actress- you can tell from the facial expression she has in the photo.
Lets just all wish her luck and hope she does well! I'm sure she'll do a lovely job playing Lyra.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Alewyn says:
So…anyone know who Jack Shephard is?
Besides, of course, being in Lost…anyone?
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
furbaby says:
Jack Shepherd is an English character actor. He is not in Lost.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Mad Larkin 619 says:
I am going to have to agree with Hazel again guys she even made me feel bad
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
mysterygal says:
ok?WTF?that wasnt me who said that back there!!i havnt been on the computer for ages so that coudnt be me!!! i think dakota looks great!and whoever is using my name..STOP IT!!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
mysterygal says:
100th comment!!!WOOHOO!! anyway..i think dakota's chin is fine!!!whoever wrote that comment before was stupid and shouldnt use other peoples names!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Calypso says:
I dont know…personally I need a fuller, more direct picture before I can make a call. BTW this picture was in an article in TIME magazine, it was horrible. The title of the article was something like: Harry Potter Barbie Style. Goddamm journalists obviously haven't read any of Pullman's masterpieces. :angry:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
KittyKat: says:
She looks -almost- as if she's smiling. But who wouldn't if they got the part of Lyra? Lucky…..
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
FB says:
I think DBR and NK are a good match for each other, they look akin in this pic. I hope that similarity carries thorugh the film and in their behaviour.
-FB
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
From Norroway says:
If this picture is from Mrs Coulter's party, Lyra was taken to the hairdresser to have her hair softened and curled, remember?? Hence the dollish look…
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Mad Larkin 619 says:
I think I know who has been name using again Bill the Kid please come out with your hands up.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Bill the Kid says:
Ya caught me again ya FUCK HEAD :laughing: Your getting good at this :wassat:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
virgile says:
I had initally thoght that Monica Bellucci would have made a perfect dark haired Mrs Coulter, but hey, as long as we keep things blonde, this might just work.
looks as the first meeting between Lyra and Mrs Coulter, when Lyra was initially so seduced by Mrs Coulter's charm. In the backgtound it might well be the Jordan College Master.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Alewyn says:
"Harry Potter Barbie Style."
yeah, and the NYTimes Book Review of the sixth harry potter book was "Her Dark Materials"
and the paragraph about Tom Stoppard being cut from the movie in the NYTimes said "Pullman's Tolkienesque- or is is Rowlingesque?"
So YEAH. Would just like to point out the TGC/NL came out a year before harry potter. :crying:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
mysterygal says:
Hey!!!
Two people are using my name! Stop it! I had it first, go get soem other name :angry:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Nicola says:
Just no.
God no, why?
Why is she blonde?
I know it cant be exactly like the books, but from these pictures I dont get a good feeling.
Oh, what have they done?
ANd I have no words for Lyra.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
no name says:
why is she blonde? Well not least becos Philp Pullman describes her that way im guessing…
:laughing:
i think shes great. shes not "my lyra", obviousli but im pleased. and anyway, surely the character she potrays is vastly more important than her appearance?
i just worry that some people who are worked up over the looks of one actor may be quite dissapointed with the film. I don't intend to accuse anyone of being precious but surely we all realise the film will never live up to the books and should probably be taken with a pinch of Hollywood salt? Having said that I really do hope its good! Nicole Kidman is fantastic.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
starcatcher says:
she doesnt look at all like i though lyra would although she looks OK.what is with her nose btw?! For some reason she looks really evil in that pic!!! lol
Nicold Kidman is the perfect match for Mrs. Coulter! i hope she gets the accent right though!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Pants girl says:
OH MY GOOOOOOD!!!!!!!!!!!
dONT U PEOPLE TAKE IN EVERY SINGLE SHEER GENIUS WORD THAT PHILLIP PULLMAN SPILLS ON TO THE HIS PAGES??? I HAVE READ SO MANY BOOKS IN MY 13 YEARS AND NEVER HAVE I READ SUCH A SPIRIT CHANGING, BREATH TAKING, BEAUTIFUL, POWERFUL BOOK. IN MY OPINION IT EASILY SHADOWS THE LIKES OF LORD OF THE RINGS AND DEFINITELY HARRY POTTER AND ANYONE CRAZY ENOUGH TO TRULY COMPARE HARRY POTTER TO HDM SHOULD BE EXILED FROM READING. MAY I JUST SAY HOW MUCH OF A WORSHIPPER OF PHILLIP I AM AND THE AMBER SPYGLASS WAS THE REAL PINACLE OF THE TRILOGY. FYI LYRA DID HAVE CURLY BLOND HAIR(NOT AS WELL GROOMED AS IN THE PICTURE BUT THE SCENE WAS JUST BEFORE MRS COULTERS PARTY AND SHE HAD HAD IT DONE SPECIALLY IF U RECALL)DAKOTA BLUE RICHARDS IS THE PERFECT FORM OF LYRA IN EVERYWAY I CAN TELL JUST FROM THAT ONE PICTURE AND WE CAN EXPECT GREAT THINGS FROM HER. NICOLE SHOULD NOT HAVE BLOND HAIR EVEN THOUGH I AM ALSO A HUGE FAN OF HER WORK. OVERALL EVERYONE WHO THINKS OTHERWISE TO MY COMMENTS SHOULD SERIOUSLY RETHINK RE READING THE BOOKS AS I AM PROBABLY THE BIGGEST HDM FAN U CAN GET AND THE COMMENTS ABOUT DAKOTAS CHIN?????????? GET A LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Depth of Character says:
I'm very pleased to see that this savvy group of posters fully understands that compelling characters in film and literature are defined solely by hair color. I mean, oh-muh-gawd, it is obvious from that single photograph that Dakota is a horrid actress and criminally mis-cast because her hair is too curly! Anyone who has read Pullman's works must understand that the blondeness/wavyness (NOT CURLYNESS) of Lyra's hair is CRUCIAL to her function as the protagonist. At the risk of spoiling the plot for those who may have not read it, I must point out that if Lyra's hair were too straight or too tightly curled the whole storyline would have fallen apart immediately. That was Pullman's central theme in this trilogy: A person's soul is defined entirely by their hair…that and their enormous chins.
All of you, congratulations on your astute critical analyses of fine literature!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
crazy_stunt_girl says:
Cheers to you, Depth of Character! Thanks for putting that so beautifully; I couldn't agree more!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
dasha says:
dakota looks so much like a littel girl…. :wassat: i kinda cant really picture her getting into a romantic relationship w/ will in the end if shes going to look like a child. i dont know i guess she'll deff grow by the time they film the 3rd one. i dont know about her yet though…more pictures!!!! OH and nicole kidman is PERFECT for this.
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
kavi says:
mabye because lyra had to dress up and make her hair look nice right before she met mrs coulter might have somthing to do with it
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Olivia Mackenzie says:
I know Dakota she was in my old drama club. I left a while back and was amazed when i heard that she got the part (a tad envious of her working with Daniel Craig and Nicole Kidman!)
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
rosiposidancer says:
olivia makenzi, u r a lier!!!! she did not go to drama club!!!!!!! thats why they picked her for the part!!!!!!!!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
nanouska says:
hey…
oh, Dakota's taken my dream away, u don't know HOW badly I wanted the part As Lyra, I know her character inside out.. :crying:
I was soooo anoyed (that's putting it lightly)to hear someone had already been chosen, that I just refused to talk to anyone for a day… and the most ANOYING thing is that she actually looks like a GOOD Lyra, kind of how I imagined her…if she was terrible I wouldn't have minded coz at least I could tease her and brag how much better I would have been… :crying:
Still, if Philip Pullman is happy with Dakota, that's really what matters, rite??? I mean, after all, he was the one who invented her in the first place…
Well, if she doesn't want to continue after the first film (hint hint), there's alway me as a back up
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
RaaRItsEmmY says:
I think it is absolutely RIDICULOUS! to have a blond, very blond, Mrs. Coulter ! In the book Pullman described her as being DARK HAIRED! The people that film the movie obviously have not read the book.Raaaaaar! :angry: :angry: :angry:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
RaaRItsEmmY says:
Dakota Blue Richards is the perfect Lyra! She gives me that kind of feeling (just by looking at her) that she is going to be the curious, outgoing Lyra that we have all known!
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Randomness says:
is it damon or demon in book2 will calls it demon once :wassat:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
merCUry says:
I just agree with pants girl,I JUST LOVE THİS BOOKKKKKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!I have read all series of Harry Potter and The Lord Of The Rings and I think I 've never read a book like this!!!!!!!!!I love you Pullman for writing this book!!!!!!!!!!I don't care Dakota's hair but I think Kidman is not very good choice :tongue:
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link
Raptor 1001 says:
i dont know isnt mrs Coulter supposed to have dark hair?
April 28, 2007 6:33 pm | link
Demi says:
I auditioned but came 3rd… shes prettier anyway!
E-mail me Dakota! Rock on gurl!
January 22, 2008 8:03 pm | link
She looks perfect! And Nicole looks perfect as well! The look they are giving each other is….perfection.
CANNOT WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
September 2, 2010 9:51 pm | link