Escapism.
BBC, Bravo, HBO and Showtime have laid the stage for young talent to thrive in material that isn't boxed in by Hollywood typecasting. Mythology, science fiction and classic novels of the strange, unique, horrible, twisted, and fantastic are ideal in a longer miniseries format.
When you look back at your first job do you cringe? I have to hand it to casting directors who have the ability to appreciate, shape and nuture the youthful potential of a young actor.
Jonathan Rhys-Meyers has woven a very interesting path, from the Tudors, Matchpoint, Bend It Like Beckham, Velvet Goldmine and action features like Mission Impossible III.
I first saw him in the BBC miniseries Gormenghast where he played the scheming kitchen boy Steerpike (here).
Anyone seen BBC's adaptation of Day of the Triffids ? Based on a fantastic book by John Wyndham, the miniseries stars Dougray Scott, Joely Richardson, Eddie Izzard, Jason Priestley, Vanessa Redgrave and Brian Cox. A strong cast at least. A short clip here.
Unfortunately the BBC version of Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere never met expectations despite a solid story, but hopefully the film adaptation by The Weinstein Company will prove fruitful.
Found this.. Marple "Towards Zero" part 1 here
BBC's "Who do you think you are?" is a documentary series that follows a variety of thespians, chefs, and celebrities quests to trace their ancestors in their family tree. A number of familiar faces can be seen such as David Suchet, Kim Cattrall, Stephen Fry, Jeremy Irons, and Nigella Lawson. (names linked to view online) A fascinating journey and well of information about anthropology and inherited traits of the human race.
