This has been the weirdest week in British television in a long time.
In the days leading up to Boris Johnson’s resignation, the number of gaffes and surreal moments captured on live television became almost impossible to track. But in many ways, these moments reflected the surreal mood of the country as the prime minister refused to step down, despite more than 50 government resignations.
Take the political coverage from College Green, a public park in Westminster and a popular location for interviews with politicians. On Wednesday, the day after Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Chancellor Rishi Sunak sensationally resigned from their posts, ITV’s Susanna Reid and former Labour chancellor Ed Balls were interrupted on “Good Morning Britain” by the anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray singing a karaoke version of the Bay City Rollers, replacing the words “Bye Bye Baby” with “Bye Bye Boris.”
“Bye Bye Boris, Boris Bye Bye...
In the days leading up to Boris Johnson’s resignation, the number of gaffes and surreal moments captured on live television became almost impossible to track. But in many ways, these moments reflected the surreal mood of the country as the prime minister refused to step down, despite more than 50 government resignations.
Take the political coverage from College Green, a public park in Westminster and a popular location for interviews with politicians. On Wednesday, the day after Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Chancellor Rishi Sunak sensationally resigned from their posts, ITV’s Susanna Reid and former Labour chancellor Ed Balls were interrupted on “Good Morning Britain” by the anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray singing a karaoke version of the Bay City Rollers, replacing the words “Bye Bye Baby” with “Bye Bye Boris.”
“Bye Bye Boris, Boris Bye Bye...
- 7/7/2022
- by Scott Bryan
- Variety Film + TV
Game Of Thrones star Lena Headey and Stan & Ollie actor Steve Coogan were among those to join an estimated one million anti-Brexit marchers in London on Saturday.
Marching celebrities also included TV presenter Claudia Winkleman, actress Meera Syal, singer Billy Bragg and chef Delia Smith. Actor Patrick Stewart was among those to sponsor coaches bussing marchers to London while James Corden tweeted images from the march and voiced his support.
The Put it to the People event, which has called for a second referendum on Brexit, saw marchers walk through central London. It ended with speeches from politicians including Labour deputy leader Tom Watson, London mayor Sadiq Khan and prominent Conservative Party politician Michael Heseltine.
Headey, 45, posted an image from the protest to Instagram with the caption: “Let’s have a think shall we.”
View this post on Instagram
@peoples_vote Let’s have a think shall we
A post...
Marching celebrities also included TV presenter Claudia Winkleman, actress Meera Syal, singer Billy Bragg and chef Delia Smith. Actor Patrick Stewart was among those to sponsor coaches bussing marchers to London while James Corden tweeted images from the march and voiced his support.
The Put it to the People event, which has called for a second referendum on Brexit, saw marchers walk through central London. It ended with speeches from politicians including Labour deputy leader Tom Watson, London mayor Sadiq Khan and prominent Conservative Party politician Michael Heseltine.
Headey, 45, posted an image from the protest to Instagram with the caption: “Let’s have a think shall we.”
View this post on Instagram
@peoples_vote Let’s have a think shall we
A post...
- 3/25/2019
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
From Meryl Streep's Iron Lady to Spitting Image and the Spice Girls, Observer writers and critics pick the films, books, art, music and TV that show Thatcher's lasting influence
Art, chosen by Laura Cumming
Treatment Room (1983)
In Richard Hamilton's installation, Thatcher administered her own harsh medicine from a video above the operating table with the viewer as helpless patient: a case of kill or cure.
Taking Stock (1984)
Hans Haacke portrayed Thatcher enthroned, nose in the air like a gun-dog, surrounded by images of Queen Victoria, the Saatchi brothers and, ominously, Pandora. Caused national furore.
In the Sleep of Reason (1982)
Mark Wallinger edited Thatcher's 1982 Falklands speech from blink to blink, fading to black in between, emphasising her solipsistic tendency to close her eyes when speaking as if nobody else existed.
The Battle of Orgreave (2001)
Jeremy Deller's restaged the worst conflict of the miners' strike from multiple viewpoints, uniting...
Art, chosen by Laura Cumming
Treatment Room (1983)
In Richard Hamilton's installation, Thatcher administered her own harsh medicine from a video above the operating table with the viewer as helpless patient: a case of kill or cure.
Taking Stock (1984)
Hans Haacke portrayed Thatcher enthroned, nose in the air like a gun-dog, surrounded by images of Queen Victoria, the Saatchi brothers and, ominously, Pandora. Caused national furore.
In the Sleep of Reason (1982)
Mark Wallinger edited Thatcher's 1982 Falklands speech from blink to blink, fading to black in between, emphasising her solipsistic tendency to close her eyes when speaking as if nobody else existed.
The Battle of Orgreave (2001)
Jeremy Deller's restaged the worst conflict of the miners' strike from multiple viewpoints, uniting...
- 4/13/2013
- by Robert McCrum, Kitty Empire, Philip French, Andrew Rawnsley, Euan Ferguson
- The Guardian - Film News
The Margaret Thatcher era left an indelible mark on British cinema – not all of it negative. Here we select some key films that distilled the essence of Thatcher's Britain, for better or worse
My Beautiful Laundrette, 1985. Dir: Stephen Frears
Reading this on mobile? Click here to view video
The spirit of free enterprise underpins the Hanif Kureishi-scripted, Stephen Frears-directed comedy – mordant but forward-looking in its equation of immigrant thrift with modern conservative values. Omar, son of a campaigning journalist-in-exile, turns to launderette-management, drug-stealing and inter-ethnic gay sex to boot. Genuinely groundbreaking in its subtle and empathetic portrait of a British Asian community, My Beautiful Laundrette was a teasing provocation to the mindset of the 70s old left. Daniel Day Lewis, of course, made a massive impact as punk rocker Johnny, a stereotype confounder who deserts his street-fighting confreres for Omar's charms. Kureishi's prescience even ran to the...
My Beautiful Laundrette, 1985. Dir: Stephen Frears
Reading this on mobile? Click here to view video
The spirit of free enterprise underpins the Hanif Kureishi-scripted, Stephen Frears-directed comedy – mordant but forward-looking in its equation of immigrant thrift with modern conservative values. Omar, son of a campaigning journalist-in-exile, turns to launderette-management, drug-stealing and inter-ethnic gay sex to boot. Genuinely groundbreaking in its subtle and empathetic portrait of a British Asian community, My Beautiful Laundrette was a teasing provocation to the mindset of the 70s old left. Daniel Day Lewis, of course, made a massive impact as punk rocker Johnny, a stereotype confounder who deserts his street-fighting confreres for Omar's charms. Kureishi's prescience even ran to the...
- 4/8/2013
- by Andrew Pulver
- The Guardian - Film News
Former deputy prime minister Lord Michael Heseltine was left embarrassed during filming for yesterday's (February 21) edition of Question Time when his mobile phone started ringing during the middle of a debate about the economy.
Watch the clip below:
Host David Dimbleby commented: "There's a telephone going off!" However, he quickly realised that it was Heseltine's and not in the audience.
The Conservative politician joked afterwards: "My wife is supporting what I have been saying, she is just letting me know."
His fellow guests joked that it might be Prime Minister David Cameron or Chancellor George Osbourne calling to warn him about going "off message".
Question Time was broadcast from St Paul's Cathedral for the first time in the programme's history last night.
Watch the clip below:
Host David Dimbleby commented: "There's a telephone going off!" However, he quickly realised that it was Heseltine's and not in the audience.
The Conservative politician joked afterwards: "My wife is supporting what I have been saying, she is just letting me know."
His fellow guests joked that it might be Prime Minister David Cameron or Chancellor George Osbourne calling to warn him about going "off message".
Question Time was broadcast from St Paul's Cathedral for the first time in the programme's history last night.
- 2/22/2013
- Digital Spy
Question Time will be broadcast from St Paul's Cathedral for the first time in the programme's history.
The show will air from the historic building in the City of London on Thursday, February 21, featuring a panel including Liberal Democrat business secretary Vince Cable, Conservative politician and former deputy prime minister Lord Michael Heseltine and Diane Abbott, Labour MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington.
© Pa Images / Mentorn Media / BBC Scotland
"We're delighted to be producing the programme from St Paul's, and I am sure the quality and passion of the debate will match the sublime setting," said Question Time editor Nicolai Gentchev.
"The site of the Cathedral is one of London's oldest places of debate, and we hope it will inspire our audience and panel."
Gentchev also promised that "other new locations" for Question Time would be announced later in the year.
© Pa Images / Anthony Devlin / Pa Wire
© Pa Images...
The show will air from the historic building in the City of London on Thursday, February 21, featuring a panel including Liberal Democrat business secretary Vince Cable, Conservative politician and former deputy prime minister Lord Michael Heseltine and Diane Abbott, Labour MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington.
© Pa Images / Mentorn Media / BBC Scotland
"We're delighted to be producing the programme from St Paul's, and I am sure the quality and passion of the debate will match the sublime setting," said Question Time editor Nicolai Gentchev.
"The site of the Cathedral is one of London's oldest places of debate, and we hope it will inspire our audience and panel."
Gentchev also promised that "other new locations" for Question Time would be announced later in the year.
© Pa Images / Anthony Devlin / Pa Wire
© Pa Images...
- 2/4/2013
- Digital Spy
When the Soviet media first branded Margaret Thatcher "Iron Lady" in 1976, she was delighted. It's a name that perfectly encapsulates the raw nerve and verve of one of the most powerful women in history, who served as England's Prime Minister for three terms and stood her ground during the Falklands War. She is played to uncanny effect by Oscar winner Meryl Streep in the biopic "The Iron Lady" (on DVD and Blu-ray today).
Iron Man, aka Tony Stark, was created by Stan Lee and Don Heck in 1963 for Marvel Comics, and in 2008 became a movie franchise to be reckoned with. Robert Downey Jr. portrays the superhero as a healthy mix of Howard Hughes, James Bond and, well, Robert Downey Jr., and will continue doing so in this summer's team-up extravaganza "The Avengers."
Both Iron Man and the Iron Lady are highly controversial figures in their own way, perfect to battle each other.
Iron Man, aka Tony Stark, was created by Stan Lee and Don Heck in 1963 for Marvel Comics, and in 2008 became a movie franchise to be reckoned with. Robert Downey Jr. portrays the superhero as a healthy mix of Howard Hughes, James Bond and, well, Robert Downey Jr., and will continue doing so in this summer's team-up extravaganza "The Avengers."
Both Iron Man and the Iron Lady are highly controversial figures in their own way, perfect to battle each other.
- 4/10/2012
- by Max Evry
- NextMovie
Starting Sunday 15 Jan with the Golden Globes and ending at the 84th Oscars on 26 Feb, Hollywood is about to go red carpet crazy. Here are Charlie Lyne's top tips
The Iron Lady
Reasons it'll do well This highly subjective (and opportunely forgetful) look back at the career of the mischievous milk snatcher refashions Maggie as both a feminist crusader and a sympathetic victim, thanks in no small part to a typically winning performance from 16-time Oscar nominee Meryl Streep. Don't count her "Out Out Out" of the Best Actress category.
Reasons it won't There's evidence to suggest that the film has already alienated people on both sides of the political spectrum, with liberals furious over its "humanising" effect on Thatcher and Tories upset that it doesn't make her look formidable enough.
Would definitely win Best Power Hair
See also Helen Mirren as The Queen, perhaps the only other living British...
The Iron Lady
Reasons it'll do well This highly subjective (and opportunely forgetful) look back at the career of the mischievous milk snatcher refashions Maggie as both a feminist crusader and a sympathetic victim, thanks in no small part to a typically winning performance from 16-time Oscar nominee Meryl Streep. Don't count her "Out Out Out" of the Best Actress category.
Reasons it won't There's evidence to suggest that the film has already alienated people on both sides of the political spectrum, with liberals furious over its "humanising" effect on Thatcher and Tories upset that it doesn't make her look formidable enough.
Would definitely win Best Power Hair
See also Helen Mirren as The Queen, perhaps the only other living British...
- 1/14/2012
- by Charlie Lyne
- The Guardian - Film News
Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Crafting a compelling film out of Margaret Thatcher’s life should be a veritable slam dunk; it’s just a shame that screenwriter Abi Morgan, who has turned many heads recently with her work on the excellent Shame – imbues her script with too much silliness and, moreover, some particularly odd fantastical moments. These flourishes, better described as needless gambles, diminish the undeniable austerity of Meryl Streep’s superb performance, and director Phylidda Lloyd’s work therefore cannot be compared alongside robust political pics such as the Peter Morgan-penned Frost/Nixon and The Queen. Particularly disappointing it is because there are few public subjects as ripe for a barnstorming portrayal, which, in spite of the leaden, staunchly non-confrontational script, Streep somehow manages to scarcely pull off.
Indeed, if the Academy can consider an actor’s ability to transcend a mediocre script, then Meryl Streep is a...
Crafting a compelling film out of Margaret Thatcher’s life should be a veritable slam dunk; it’s just a shame that screenwriter Abi Morgan, who has turned many heads recently with her work on the excellent Shame – imbues her script with too much silliness and, moreover, some particularly odd fantastical moments. These flourishes, better described as needless gambles, diminish the undeniable austerity of Meryl Streep’s superb performance, and director Phylidda Lloyd’s work therefore cannot be compared alongside robust political pics such as the Peter Morgan-penned Frost/Nixon and The Queen. Particularly disappointing it is because there are few public subjects as ripe for a barnstorming portrayal, which, in spite of the leaden, staunchly non-confrontational script, Streep somehow manages to scarcely pull off.
Indeed, if the Academy can consider an actor’s ability to transcend a mediocre script, then Meryl Streep is a...
- 1/7/2012
- by Shaun Munro
- Obsessed with Film
Meryl Streep and state papers may portray a more nuanced Thatcher – but her divisive legacy should not be rewritten
My new year's resolution for 2012 is easily stated. Avoid lazy labels and simplistic stereotypes in political commentary, even when it is about Margaret Thatcher. As with all such resolves, this one is easier to say than to do, since few reputations have become so set in stereotypical aspic as Thatcher's. She remains worshipped on the right and excoriated on the left, with almost no middle ground. What more is there to say?
Quite a large amount, in fact, if the state papers from 1981 – released by the National Archives at midnight last night under the 30-year rule – are a guide. Documents from one of the most embattled early years of Thatcher's 11-year premiership depict a rather more nuanced and pragmatic politician than the officially sanctioned labels of visionary or villain would allow.
My new year's resolution for 2012 is easily stated. Avoid lazy labels and simplistic stereotypes in political commentary, even when it is about Margaret Thatcher. As with all such resolves, this one is easier to say than to do, since few reputations have become so set in stereotypical aspic as Thatcher's. She remains worshipped on the right and excoriated on the left, with almost no middle ground. What more is there to say?
Quite a large amount, in fact, if the state papers from 1981 – released by the National Archives at midnight last night under the 30-year rule – are a guide. Documents from one of the most embattled early years of Thatcher's 11-year premiership depict a rather more nuanced and pragmatic politician than the officially sanctioned labels of visionary or villain would allow.
- 12/30/2011
- by Martin Kettle
- The Guardian - Film News
Wishy-washy and unfocused, Phyllida Lloyd's Margaret Thatcher biopic fails to embody the indomitable spirit of its subject
Director: Phyllida Lloyd
Entertainment grade: C+
History grade: C
Margaret Thatcher was prime minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990.
Structure
The Iron Lady tells its story as a series of flashbacks experienced by the ageing Thatcher (Meryl Streep), suffering from dementia and haunted by the imagined ghost of her late husband, Denis (Jim Broadbent). Streep is terrific, carrying off Thatcher in her prime and Thatcher in her dotage with equal aplomb. Regrettably, however, so much of the film's screentime has been devoted to the dotage – and so many of the flashbacks are, unlike Thatcher herself, preoccupied with her role as a wife and mother – that little time is left for the interesting stuff. A few of those who are relegated to blink-and-you'll-miss-'em status, or don't appear at all: Cecil Parkinson, Nigel Lawson,...
Director: Phyllida Lloyd
Entertainment grade: C+
History grade: C
Margaret Thatcher was prime minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990.
Structure
The Iron Lady tells its story as a series of flashbacks experienced by the ageing Thatcher (Meryl Streep), suffering from dementia and haunted by the imagined ghost of her late husband, Denis (Jim Broadbent). Streep is terrific, carrying off Thatcher in her prime and Thatcher in her dotage with equal aplomb. Regrettably, however, so much of the film's screentime has been devoted to the dotage – and so many of the flashbacks are, unlike Thatcher herself, preoccupied with her role as a wife and mother – that little time is left for the interesting stuff. A few of those who are relegated to blink-and-you'll-miss-'em status, or don't appear at all: Cecil Parkinson, Nigel Lawson,...
- 12/29/2011
- by Alex von Tunzelmann
- The Guardian - Film News
Meryl Streep has spoken of how her admiration for Lady Margaret Thatcher grew as she made a film about Britain's former prime minister.
There has been praise - and talk of an Oscar win - for Streep's role in The Iron Lady, although the controversial movie has drawn criticism from the ex-Tory party leader's former colleagues.
The actress says making the film has given her greater respect for a woman who succeeded against overwhelming odds.
"The more I learned, the more my view of her changed. Wherever you stand on her policies, and many people didn't like her, the scale of her influence and the fact that she got things done was extraordinary," she told the Radio Times.
"And the mental, physical, spiritual energy that it took to live every one of those days as head of the government was phenomenal. It's really humbling to consider that she was at 10 Downing Street for 10-and-a-half years.
There has been praise - and talk of an Oscar win - for Streep's role in The Iron Lady, although the controversial movie has drawn criticism from the ex-Tory party leader's former colleagues.
The actress says making the film has given her greater respect for a woman who succeeded against overwhelming odds.
"The more I learned, the more my view of her changed. Wherever you stand on her policies, and many people didn't like her, the scale of her influence and the fact that she got things done was extraordinary," she told the Radio Times.
"And the mental, physical, spiritual energy that it took to live every one of those days as head of the government was phenomenal. It's really humbling to consider that she was at 10 Downing Street for 10-and-a-half years.
- 12/28/2011
- by David Bentley
- The Geek Files
Lord Michael Heseltine has criticised Richard E Grant's hair in the upcoming Margaret Thatcher biopic The Iron Lady. Grant plays the politician in the film, but Heseltine was not fond of the actor dying his hair for the role, which he says has cast further doubt on the accuracy of the project. "I gather he has dyed his hair, so even that isn't genuine," he told the Daily Telegraph. "As a historical event, no one who made the film has talked to me and I therefore work on the assumption that it won't be accurate." Richard E Grant had previously revealed that he wanted to wear a wig for the role instead of dying it. He said: "Everyone else had wigs, but for some reason they wouldn't give (more)...
- 12/28/2011
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Richard E. Grant's character in 'The Iron Lady' has been blasted because he hasn't got the right hair. The actor plays Lord Michael Heseltine, but the British politician has criticised the film because he is portrayed with dyed hair and wasn't consulted during its making. He told the Daily Telegraph newspaper: ''I gather he has dyed his hair, so even that isn't genuine. As a historical event, no one who made the film has talked to me and I therefore work on the assumption that it won't be accurate.'' The political thriller follows Michael's challenge to...
- 12/28/2011
- Virgin Media - Movies
Oscar-winner and Hollywood liberal says playing former Pm in The Iron Lady has made her see the woman behind the politics
She is firmly a part of Hollywood's liberal elite, who describes herself as part of "the Left", but Meryl Streep has confessed developing a strong admiration for Margaret Thatcher after playing her in a film.
Streep – who is in the running for her third Oscar for her role in The Iron Lady – said playing the role had given her a greater respect for a woman who succeeded in a male-dominated world.
"I was aware of her very early on and, even though her policies were not popular, to say the least, in my circles, people were kind of thrilled that a woman had become leader," she told the Radio Times.
"When I was in college the professions open to women were so few – there were very few women that went to law school,...
She is firmly a part of Hollywood's liberal elite, who describes herself as part of "the Left", but Meryl Streep has confessed developing a strong admiration for Margaret Thatcher after playing her in a film.
Streep – who is in the running for her third Oscar for her role in The Iron Lady – said playing the role had given her a greater respect for a woman who succeeded in a male-dominated world.
"I was aware of her very early on and, even though her policies were not popular, to say the least, in my circles, people were kind of thrilled that a woman had become leader," she told the Radio Times.
"When I was in college the professions open to women were so few – there were very few women that went to law school,...
- 12/28/2011
- by Alexandra Topping
- The Guardian - Film News
Richard E. Grant was forced to dye his hair blonde for his part in 'The Iron Lady'. The esteemed actor plays the role of government minister Michael Heseltine in the forthcoming biopic about Margaret Thatcher - which stars Meryl Streep as the iconic British leader - but was upset when he was one of the only actors who didn't get to wear a wig. He said: ''Everyone else had wigs, but for some reason they wouldn't give me one. I said, 'Look, he's got more hair at 80 than I had when I was 20.' But they...
- 12/12/2011
- Virgin Media - Movies
Actor Richard E. Grant had to dye his hair blond to play former U.K. politician Michael Heseltine in new political drama The Iron Lady - because producers refused to let him wear a wig.
The Withnail & I star steps into Heseltine's shoes opposite Meryl Streep as former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in the upcoming movie.
But he was dismayed when the film's bosses ordered him to colour his flowing locks, as other cast members were permitted to don a hairpiece.
Grant tells January's issue of Reader's Digest, "Everyone else had wigs, but for some reason they wouldn't give me one. I said, 'Look, he's got more hair at 80 than I had when I was 20.' But they said, 'No, you've got to dye it.'"...
The Withnail & I star steps into Heseltine's shoes opposite Meryl Streep as former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in the upcoming movie.
But he was dismayed when the film's bosses ordered him to colour his flowing locks, as other cast members were permitted to don a hairpiece.
Grant tells January's issue of Reader's Digest, "Everyone else had wigs, but for some reason they wouldn't give me one. I said, 'Look, he's got more hair at 80 than I had when I was 20.' But they said, 'No, you've got to dye it.'"...
- 12/12/2011
- WENN
Margaret Thatcher is by far one of Britain's most polarizing figures over the last half century, and so it is no surprise that the upcoming film about her life is already causing debate and anger.
Starring Meryl Streep as the former British Prime Minister and conservative icon, the film depicts both Thatcher's professional life, including her hold on power between 1979 and 1990, as well as her personal journey, which includes her rise to the top and the years following her exit from office. The film isn't out to the public yet, and only a limited number of people have seen it, but just the idea of it has some of her allies up in arms.
"She was never, in my experience, the half-hysterical, over-emotional, over-acting woman portrayed by Meryl Streep," Norman Tebbit, a member of her cabinet and former Conservative Party head, wrote in the Telegraph of London. She could be difficult and demanding,...
Starring Meryl Streep as the former British Prime Minister and conservative icon, the film depicts both Thatcher's professional life, including her hold on power between 1979 and 1990, as well as her personal journey, which includes her rise to the top and the years following her exit from office. The film isn't out to the public yet, and only a limited number of people have seen it, but just the idea of it has some of her allies up in arms.
"She was never, in my experience, the half-hysterical, over-emotional, over-acting woman portrayed by Meryl Streep," Norman Tebbit, a member of her cabinet and former Conservative Party head, wrote in the Telegraph of London. She could be difficult and demanding,...
- 11/16/2011
- by Jordan Zakarin
- Huffington Post
Margaret Thatcher wasn't 'half-hysterical' leader film portrays, says former Tory MP – but reviewers rave regardless
It has drawn ecstatic notices from early screenings, but Meryl Streep's performance as Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady has been dismissed by one of the former prime minister's most loyal supporters, Norman Tebbit.
Writing in the Daily Telegraph, the one-time Conservative party chairman and trade and industry secretary said he failed to recognise the woman on screen as his former leader. He also said he was surprised that the film's director and screenwriter, Phyllida Lloyd and Abi Morgan, had not spoken to him about his experiences working with Thatcher by way of research.
"You might think that if you were setting out to make a so-called 'biopic' about such a dominant figure on the political stage of the late 20th century, your researchers would have sought out those who were closest to her...
It has drawn ecstatic notices from early screenings, but Meryl Streep's performance as Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady has been dismissed by one of the former prime minister's most loyal supporters, Norman Tebbit.
Writing in the Daily Telegraph, the one-time Conservative party chairman and trade and industry secretary said he failed to recognise the woman on screen as his former leader. He also said he was surprised that the film's director and screenwriter, Phyllida Lloyd and Abi Morgan, had not spoken to him about his experiences working with Thatcher by way of research.
"You might think that if you were setting out to make a so-called 'biopic' about such a dominant figure on the political stage of the late 20th century, your researchers would have sought out those who were closest to her...
- 11/16/2011
- by Norman Tebbit, Ben Child
- The Guardian - Film News
It takes a brave woman to portray Margaret Thatcher on screen – and that brave woman is Meryl Streep. The film? The Iron Lady.As you'll see from the first full trailer released today, The Iron Lady concentrates more on her power as a woman and a politician, rather than the effects of her policies and Britain at large. Also, thanks to a booming soundtrack and snappy editing, Meryl's Maggie is much more of a rock star than most people remember – unless our memory is seriously fizzing out these days.Still, it's great to see more from not only our leading lady but her supporting cast too, notably Jim Broadbent as Denis Thatcher, Richard E. Grant as Michael Heseltine and Anthony Head's Geoffrey Howe.This being such a contentious biopic, a lot of this trailer's good bits / bad bits are up to the opinion of the trailer watcher him/herself,...
- 11/14/2011
- EmpireOnline
Alexandra Roach left Rada only last year but the young Welsh actress has had five big parts opposite Hollywood names
Being chosen to appear in a film months after leaving drama college is the dream of every aspiring actor. For Welsh actress Alexandra Roach it is a reality. She is on the brink of international stardom, having been cast in five leading productions just a year after leaving the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (Rada).
Aged 24, Roach's potential has been recognised by some of the industry's foremost directors and producers. She has lead roles in four forthcoming films, and a supporting role in another.
Her break came after she was spotted by Nina Gold, a casting director, in a Rada production, leading to an invitation to audition for one of the most sought-after roles for a young actress – playing the young Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady, the much anticipated...
Being chosen to appear in a film months after leaving drama college is the dream of every aspiring actor. For Welsh actress Alexandra Roach it is a reality. She is on the brink of international stardom, having been cast in five leading productions just a year after leaving the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (Rada).
Aged 24, Roach's potential has been recognised by some of the industry's foremost directors and producers. She has lead roles in four forthcoming films, and a supporting role in another.
Her break came after she was spotted by Nina Gold, a casting director, in a Rada production, leading to an invitation to audition for one of the most sought-after roles for a young actress – playing the young Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady, the much anticipated...
- 11/6/2011
- by Dalya Alberge
- The Guardian - Film News
Scored very strangely to Clint Mansell’s memorable score to Moon comes the British trailer for The Weinstein Company’s sure to be powerful Oscar contender The Iron Lady, released thanks to The Guardian.
A biopic of former U.K. prime minster, the controversial Margaret Thatcher, the film focuses on crucial events in the run-up to the Falklands War in 1982 and contains a cast of venerable Brtish Talent including Jim Broadbent as Maggie’s husband Dennis, Richard E. Grant as Michael Heseltine, Roger Allam as Gordon Reece and Anthony Head as Geoffrey Howe. Mamma Mia director Phyllida Lloyd helms.
The first trailer features Streep, convicing us with ease as Maggie which was never in doubt, though the scene itself doesn’t quite work for me…
Since the very first day the film was announced, The Iron Lady has been looked upon as Streep’s “The Queen” – i.e. the political...
A biopic of former U.K. prime minster, the controversial Margaret Thatcher, the film focuses on crucial events in the run-up to the Falklands War in 1982 and contains a cast of venerable Brtish Talent including Jim Broadbent as Maggie’s husband Dennis, Richard E. Grant as Michael Heseltine, Roger Allam as Gordon Reece and Anthony Head as Geoffrey Howe. Mamma Mia director Phyllida Lloyd helms.
The first trailer features Streep, convicing us with ease as Maggie which was never in doubt, though the scene itself doesn’t quite work for me…
Since the very first day the film was announced, The Iron Lady has been looked upon as Streep’s “The Queen” – i.e. the political...
- 7/7/2011
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Today we have the first teaser trailer for Phyllida Lloyd‘s The Iron Lady, starring Meryl Streep as Britain’s first female Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
Based on a script by Abi Morgan, The Iron Lady tells the story of “a woman who smashed through the barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male-dominated world. The story concerns power and the price that is paid for power, and is a surprising and insightful portrait of an extraordinary and complex woman.”
The Iron Lady co-stars Jim Broadbent as Thatcher’s husband Denis, Anthony Head as her longest-serving cabinet member Geoffrey Howe, Richard E. Grant as conservative politician Michael Heseltine, and Roger Allam has political strategist Gordon Reece.
The Iron Lady is out on December 16th, 2011. [source: HeyUGuys]
Check out the latest news for the upcoming movies...
Based on a script by Abi Morgan, The Iron Lady tells the story of “a woman who smashed through the barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male-dominated world. The story concerns power and the price that is paid for power, and is a surprising and insightful portrait of an extraordinary and complex woman.”
The Iron Lady co-stars Jim Broadbent as Thatcher’s husband Denis, Anthony Head as her longest-serving cabinet member Geoffrey Howe, Richard E. Grant as conservative politician Michael Heseltine, and Roger Allam has political strategist Gordon Reece.
The Iron Lady is out on December 16th, 2011. [source: HeyUGuys]
Check out the latest news for the upcoming movies...
- 7/7/2011
- by Allan Ford
- Filmofilia
'I'd bring back to life all the hair that's gone down the plughole over 53 years'
Richard E Grant was born in Swaziland in 1957. After attending Cape Town University, he founded the radical Troupe Theatre Company. In 1982, he moved to London and five years later made his film debut in Withnail And I. In 2005, he wrote and directed Wah-Wah, a movie based on his childhood in Africa. He recently appeared in the BBC drama The Crimson Petal And The White. Forthcoming films include Horrid Henry: The Movie, and The Iron Lady, in which he plays Michael Heseltine. Grant is married to the voice coach Joan Washington and has a daughter and a stepson.
When were you happiest?
When I cracked how to do the Eiffel Tower with my yo-yo in 1968.
Which living person do you most admire, and why?
Joan Washington.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Doubt.
Richard E Grant was born in Swaziland in 1957. After attending Cape Town University, he founded the radical Troupe Theatre Company. In 1982, he moved to London and five years later made his film debut in Withnail And I. In 2005, he wrote and directed Wah-Wah, a movie based on his childhood in Africa. He recently appeared in the BBC drama The Crimson Petal And The White. Forthcoming films include Horrid Henry: The Movie, and The Iron Lady, in which he plays Michael Heseltine. Grant is married to the voice coach Joan Washington and has a daughter and a stepson.
When were you happiest?
When I cracked how to do the Eiffel Tower with my yo-yo in 1968.
Which living person do you most admire, and why?
Joan Washington.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Doubt.
- 5/27/2011
- by Rosanna Greenstreet
- The Guardian - Film News
Meryl Streep's co-stars were so amazed by her portrayal of former British leader Margaret Thatcher in her new movie, they gave her a standing ovation when she debuted the character.
The Hollywood actress tackles the role of the U.K.'s first female prime minister in The Iron Lady and even attended sessions at London's Houses of Parliament earlier this year to help prepare for the part.
Streep has been filming the upcoming movie with co-stars including Richard E. Grant, who plays politician Michael Heseltine, and he reveals the Oscar-winner wowed the cast when she shot her first scene as Thatcher.
Grant tells Britain's Daily Express, "When Meryl first came on speaking as Mrs Thatcher in a scene in the House of Commons there was a spontaneous standing ovation as she was astonishing."...
The Hollywood actress tackles the role of the U.K.'s first female prime minister in The Iron Lady and even attended sessions at London's Houses of Parliament earlier this year to help prepare for the part.
Streep has been filming the upcoming movie with co-stars including Richard E. Grant, who plays politician Michael Heseltine, and he reveals the Oscar-winner wowed the cast when she shot her first scene as Thatcher.
Grant tells Britain's Daily Express, "When Meryl first came on speaking as Mrs Thatcher in a scene in the House of Commons there was a spontaneous standing ovation as she was astonishing."...
- 5/9/2011
- WENN
Meryl Streep struggles to shake off her role in Abba musical Mamma Mia! - she entertained actor Richard E. Grant by singing the band's songs on a movie set.
The Hollywood veteran takes the role of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in upcoming film Iron Lady, opposite Grant as politician Michael Heseltine.
And the Withnail & I star got a taste of Streep's fun side when she serenaded him with the Swedish band's hits.
He tells Britain's Daily Mail, "We were doing a scene in which Mrs. Thatcher walks down a corridor with a group of ministers. Between shots, Meryl, still suited and bewigged as Mrs. T, sang the Abba hits.
"It was so incongruous and hilarious and it sums up her humour and sense of mischief. It's naff (cliched) to say it, but Meryl makes you feel better about yourself."
Streep showed off her vocal skills in the 2008 movie version of the hit Abba stage musical.
The Hollywood veteran takes the role of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in upcoming film Iron Lady, opposite Grant as politician Michael Heseltine.
And the Withnail & I star got a taste of Streep's fun side when she serenaded him with the Swedish band's hits.
He tells Britain's Daily Mail, "We were doing a scene in which Mrs. Thatcher walks down a corridor with a group of ministers. Between shots, Meryl, still suited and bewigged as Mrs. T, sang the Abba hits.
"It was so incongruous and hilarious and it sums up her humour and sense of mischief. It's naff (cliched) to say it, but Meryl makes you feel better about yourself."
Streep showed off her vocal skills in the 2008 movie version of the hit Abba stage musical.
- 4/29/2011
- WENN
It’s been a while since we had a chat about this project, but I’m quite sure you remember that photo of legendary Meryl Streep as Britain’s first female Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in the upcoming Phyllida Lloyd‘s biopic titled The Iron Lady.
Today, we’re here to refresh your memory, by giving you another fresh image from this project, and we’re sure you’re going to love it.
Based on a script by Abi Morgan, The Iron Lady is the story of a woman who came from nowhere to smash through barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male dominated world. It is a film about power and the price that is paid for power, a story that is both unique and universal.
Here’s an official synopsis for the movie: “London, 2008. In her well-appointed apartment, the elderly former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher...
Today, we’re here to refresh your memory, by giving you another fresh image from this project, and we’re sure you’re going to love it.
Based on a script by Abi Morgan, The Iron Lady is the story of a woman who came from nowhere to smash through barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male dominated world. It is a film about power and the price that is paid for power, a story that is both unique and universal.
Here’s an official synopsis for the movie: “London, 2008. In her well-appointed apartment, the elderly former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher...
- 4/23/2011
- by Fiona
- Filmofilia
An eerily similar Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher and Jim Broadbent as her husband Denis are pictured here in this new still from the forthcoming Thatcher biopic The Iron Lady, which Mamma Mia director Phyllida Lloyd is currently filming here in the U.K. This new still comes from The Daily Mail.
For those around in 1980′s Britain, the scene being recreated here is that of the Conservative Party conference in Brighton of that year when the first female Prime Minister effectively put the country on red alert over the ongoing battles with unions in regards to worker’s pay rights and jobs. The press would call her ‘The Fighting Lady’ and it’s that spirit the movie is trying to tap into as we are told – “Director Lloyd and the picture’s writer Abi Morgan use the conference to demonstrate Mrs Thatcher’s dominance of, and popularity within, her...
For those around in 1980′s Britain, the scene being recreated here is that of the Conservative Party conference in Brighton of that year when the first female Prime Minister effectively put the country on red alert over the ongoing battles with unions in regards to worker’s pay rights and jobs. The press would call her ‘The Fighting Lady’ and it’s that spirit the movie is trying to tap into as we are told – “Director Lloyd and the picture’s writer Abi Morgan use the conference to demonstrate Mrs Thatcher’s dominance of, and popularity within, her...
- 4/22/2011
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Can the actor ever leave the debauched Withnail behind? Here he tries his hardest with tales of fatherhood, carpentry and being Michael Heseltine
Richard E Grant is used to being a slight disappointment. Since 1985 he's carried the burden of playing the character with whom he's since become synonymous, Withnail, the reprobate, unemployed actor from writer/director Bruce Robinson's generation-defining Withnail and I. Deranged, delusional and dangerous to know, Withnail became an anti-hero for the angry youth of Thatcher's reign. Despite the intervening decades, the impact of his brilliant characterisation is such that you still expect him to come staggering in, bottle of vodka in hand, frock coat flapping and an air of icy malice sending a chill wind round the room.
So it's a bit of a let-down when the lithe, fresh-faced Grant enters the low-key trattoria off Portobello Road that he's chosen for our lunch date. He's anything...
Richard E Grant is used to being a slight disappointment. Since 1985 he's carried the burden of playing the character with whom he's since become synonymous, Withnail, the reprobate, unemployed actor from writer/director Bruce Robinson's generation-defining Withnail and I. Deranged, delusional and dangerous to know, Withnail became an anti-hero for the angry youth of Thatcher's reign. Despite the intervening decades, the impact of his brilliant characterisation is such that you still expect him to come staggering in, bottle of vodka in hand, frock coat flapping and an air of icy malice sending a chill wind round the room.
So it's a bit of a let-down when the lithe, fresh-faced Grant enters the low-key trattoria off Portobello Road that he's chosen for our lunch date. He's anything...
- 3/13/2011
- by Mariella Frostrup
- The Guardian - Film News
The new film The Iron Lady looks to capture the image of a woman capable of deploying sexual allure politically
Ever since French president François Mitterrand suggested that Margaret Thatcher had "the eyes of Caligula, the mouth of Marilyn Monroe", we've had to get used to the unbelievable truth that Margaret Thatcher was made of more than iron.
The publicity still of Meryl Streep released to promote her forthcoming performance in the film The Iron Lady continues that counterintuitive narrative. Not Thatcher, Milk Snatcher. But Thatcher, Seducer. The image ideally realises what Tory makeover people wanted Thatcher to be – not just the hard-as-nails Conservative who destroyed a nation's industrial base, but a woman capable of deploying sexual allure politically.
Streep, I feel sure, will be able to modulate that psychic transition subtly if her career as an actor and the photo of her as Thatcher are anything to go by.
Ever since French president François Mitterrand suggested that Margaret Thatcher had "the eyes of Caligula, the mouth of Marilyn Monroe", we've had to get used to the unbelievable truth that Margaret Thatcher was made of more than iron.
The publicity still of Meryl Streep released to promote her forthcoming performance in the film The Iron Lady continues that counterintuitive narrative. Not Thatcher, Milk Snatcher. But Thatcher, Seducer. The image ideally realises what Tory makeover people wanted Thatcher to be – not just the hard-as-nails Conservative who destroyed a nation's industrial base, but a woman capable of deploying sexual allure politically.
Streep, I feel sure, will be able to modulate that psychic transition subtly if her career as an actor and the photo of her as Thatcher are anything to go by.
- 2/9/2011
- by Stuart Jeffries
- The Guardian - Film News
Biopic about Britain's first female Pm by Mamma Mia! director Phyllida Lloyd also stars Jim Broadbent as Denis Thatcher
Last week, the new Man of Steel was revealed. Today, it's the turn of The Iron Lady, the Margaret Thatcher biopic that marks the latest collaboration for Meryl Streep and her Mamma Mia! director, Phyllida Lloyd.
The film, written by Abi Morgan (Sex Traffic, Brick Lane), started shooting at the end of January. Jim Broadbent plays Denis Thatcher, with Olivia Coleman as their daughter, Carol, and Alexandra Roach and Harry Lloyd as the couple in younger days. Anthony Head is Geoffrey Howe, Richard E Grant plays Michael Heseltine, Julian Wadham is Francis Pym and Michael Pennington Labour leader Michael Foot. Roger Allam rounds off the cast as television journalist-turned-political strategist Gordon Reece.
The film is billed as the story of "a woman who smashed through the barriers of gender and class...
Last week, the new Man of Steel was revealed. Today, it's the turn of The Iron Lady, the Margaret Thatcher biopic that marks the latest collaboration for Meryl Streep and her Mamma Mia! director, Phyllida Lloyd.
The film, written by Abi Morgan (Sex Traffic, Brick Lane), started shooting at the end of January. Jim Broadbent plays Denis Thatcher, with Olivia Coleman as their daughter, Carol, and Alexandra Roach and Harry Lloyd as the couple in younger days. Anthony Head is Geoffrey Howe, Richard E Grant plays Michael Heseltine, Julian Wadham is Francis Pym and Michael Pennington Labour leader Michael Foot. Roger Allam rounds off the cast as television journalist-turned-political strategist Gordon Reece.
The film is billed as the story of "a woman who smashed through the barriers of gender and class...
- 2/9/2011
- by Catherine Shoard
- The Guardian - Film News
The Iron Lady – you already remember that title from last year, when we reported that legendary Meryl Streep will star as Britain’s first female Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
That’s exactly the title of a biopic directed by Phyllida Lloyd (Mamma Mia!) and today we finally have the first image of Streep as Thatcher and we definitely recommend you to take a little look at the picture, but only if you’re not drinking your coffee at the moment.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that Streep looks bad. On the contrary! She looks awesome, and really, is there anyone out there better for this kind of role?
Based on a script by Abi Morgan, The Iron Lady tells the story of “a woman who smashed through the barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male-dominated world. The story concerns power and the price that is paid for power,...
That’s exactly the title of a biopic directed by Phyllida Lloyd (Mamma Mia!) and today we finally have the first image of Streep as Thatcher and we definitely recommend you to take a little look at the picture, but only if you’re not drinking your coffee at the moment.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that Streep looks bad. On the contrary! She looks awesome, and really, is there anyone out there better for this kind of role?
Based on a script by Abi Morgan, The Iron Lady tells the story of “a woman who smashed through the barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male-dominated world. The story concerns power and the price that is paid for power,...
- 2/8/2011
- by Fiona
- Filmofilia
Back in June, we reported that Meryl Streep had signed on to play influential and controversial British Primer Minister Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady. We now have the first image of Streep as Thatcher and if you want to feel a cold chill run up your spine, I highly recommend checking it out. The film, directed by Phyllida Law (Mamma Mia!), is set just before Thatcher took her country to war in the Falklands. The Iron Lady also stars Jim Broadbent as Thatcher's husband Denis, Anthony Head as her longest-serving cabinet member Geoffrey Howe, Richard E. Grant as conservative politician Michael Heseltine, and Roger Allam has political strategist Gordon Reece. Hit the jump to check out the image. The Iron Lady is due out later this year. Via Deadline.
- 2/8/2011
- by Matt Goldberg
- Collider.com
Pathe have just sent me the first look at Meryl Streep convincingly resembling former U.K. prime minster Margaret Thatcher in the forthcoming biopic The Iron Lady, which began filming a week ago in London. Streep is on the left, and you could be mistaken for thinking otherwise!
Since the very first day the film was announced, The Iron Lady has been looked upon as Streep’s “The Queen” – i.e. the political minded movie biopic of a fascinating and controversial figure, during a tumultuous time, that will see the veteran, almost peerless actress, be dominant on the Awards stage.
Streep has been nominated a whopping Twelve times since her second Oscar win 29 years ago and if I were a bookie, despite filming not yet complete, I would stop taking bets a whole year early on Streep winning her third next year for this, fittingly ending 30 years of being overlooked.
Since the very first day the film was announced, The Iron Lady has been looked upon as Streep’s “The Queen” – i.e. the political minded movie biopic of a fascinating and controversial figure, during a tumultuous time, that will see the veteran, almost peerless actress, be dominant on the Awards stage.
Streep has been nominated a whopping Twelve times since her second Oscar win 29 years ago and if I were a bookie, despite filming not yet complete, I would stop taking bets a whole year early on Streep winning her third next year for this, fittingly ending 30 years of being overlooked.
- 2/8/2011
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
All of David Cameron's wishes are about to come true, as beloved icon Meryl Streep lends her likeability and considerable acting talent to The Iron Lady, a story in the life of Margaret Thatcher, set just before she took the UK to war in the Falklands. And here's Streep in costume as the lady-who's-not-for-turning herself.The film casts Jim Broadbent as Maggie's husband Dennis, with Anthony Head as Geoffrey Howe, Richard E. Grant as Michael Heseltine and Roger Allam as Gordon Reece. Alexandra Roach and Harry Lloyd play the young Maggie and Dennis.Streep's Mamma Mia! director Phyllida Lloyd is directing the film. It's probably too much to hope for musical numbers, however, which is a shame because singalong DVDs full of songs like 'Die, Trade Union, Die' would probably be extremely popular with the current administration. Abi Morgan, of Brick Lane and Sex Traffic, wrote the script.The Iron Lady...
- 2/8/2011
- EmpireOnline
Your chance to buy a Stallone-stamped red carpet; Streep is in the frame to play Thatcher; and transatlantic problems with 'the world's biggest bender'
Glamour footprint
You can own the ground Sylvester Stallone walked on. The Hollywood action legend will be in Leicester Square next month for the premiere of his new film The Expendables, joined by Jason Statham and Jet Li. Other action Gods such as Dolph Lundgren, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Bruce Willis are rumoured to be joining them on the red carpet — a patch of which you, dear Trash reader, can then purchase. Can you imagine… it would be like having a rock from Mount Olympus in your back garden. The 10x10ft section of carpet will be taken from just in front of the cinema, where the stars gather for their photo calls, and you even get to own the pics of the actors posing on your patch.
Glamour footprint
You can own the ground Sylvester Stallone walked on. The Hollywood action legend will be in Leicester Square next month for the premiere of his new film The Expendables, joined by Jason Statham and Jet Li. Other action Gods such as Dolph Lundgren, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Bruce Willis are rumoured to be joining them on the red carpet — a patch of which you, dear Trash reader, can then purchase. Can you imagine… it would be like having a rock from Mount Olympus in your back garden. The 10x10ft section of carpet will be taken from just in front of the cinema, where the stars gather for their photo calls, and you even get to own the pics of the actors posing on your patch.
- 7/5/2010
- by Jason Solomons
- The Guardian - Film News
A cast of respected British actors will play Margaret Thatcher's allies and deserters in an upcoming BBC Two drama charting her political downfall. Ian McDiarmid (Star Wars) has been cast as her loyal husband Denis, James Fox (A Passage To India) as foreign policy advisor Charles Powell and Robert Hardy (All Creatures Great and Small) as Willie Whitelaw. Others appearing include Philip Jackson (Poirot) as chief press secretary Bernard Ingham, Kevin McNally (Pirates Of The Caribbean) as Ken Clarke and Oliver Cotton (The Commander) as Michael Heseltine. (more)...
- 7/23/2008
- by By Dave West
- Digital Spy
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