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Marple: The Secret of Chimneys

shanty_sleuth 17 Sep 09 at 7:27 p.m. GMT

I haven't read the book yet, but I own a copy. And I think that this is a complete rewrite, because I know for certain that Bundle never had a sister named Virginia. Nor was Treadwell a woman. This one seems Marplefied to the extreme. The synopsis really left me empty. This could be a major disappointment, but you be the judge.

The Secret of Chimneys stars Jonas Armstrong, Michelle Collins, Stephen Dillane, Edward Fox, Adam Godley, Anthony Higgins, Mathew Horne, Ruth Jones, Dervla Kirwan, and Charlotte Salt.A lavish weekend party sees Miss Marple (Julia McKenzie) accompany Lady Virginia Revel (Charlotte Salt) to her family home of Chimneys – a house which was once prized for its diplomatic gatherings until a rare diamond was stolen from the premises over twenty years ago. The tenacious career politician, George Lomax (Adam Godley), has persuaded Virginia’s father, Lord Caterham (Edward Fox), to host an evening for an important Austrian Count, Ludwig Von Stainach (Anthony Higgins). Virginia, the daughter of Miss Marple’s late cousin, must decide by the end of the weekend whether to accept a marriage proposal from George Lomax or to follow her heart and the courtship of another more adventurous suitor, Anthony Cade (Jonas Armstrong).  Dismayed by the odd array of guests, including socialist spinster Miss Blenkinsopp (Ruth Jones), Caterham’s formidable eldest daughter Bundle (Dervla Kirwan) and the quietly inscrutable maidservant Treadwell (Michelle Collins), Lomax castigates his affable assistant Bill Eversleigh (Mathew Horne), who also has a soft spot for Virginia. It becomes apparent that Count Ludwig has taken a personal interest in Chimneys and a contract for the sale of the house is drawn up with Caterham. That same evening, in the middle of the night, the house guests are stirred from their beds by security and the Count cannot be found. The sound of a gunshot is heard from a secret passageway in the house and Count Ludwig is found dead in the arms of Anthony Cade. Why is Cade at Chimneys? And is Virginia’s suitor being framed for murder?  A Chief Inspector (Stephen Dillane) arrives from Scotland Yard to investigate, enlisting Miss Marple’s help.  Together they discover a coded message in the pocket of the dead Count which could hold the key to the mystery. But when the bones of a young servant, murdered over twenty years ago, are uncovered Miss Marple begins to realise that the secret of Chimneys is darker than even she had realised.The Secret of Chimneys has been adapted by Paul Rutman and is to be directed by John Strickland. Karen Thrussell produces both current Marple and Poirot series.

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99 replies

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MissQuin 07 Apr 10 at 1:44 p.m. GMT

I just hope that in Chimney's, the suspects are NOT all gathered into a room. It just has become tiresome and Miss Marple doesn't really tend to do that in the books.

go_leafs_nation 07 Apr 10 at 12:58 p.m. GMT

Well, I haven't been fanatically preaching against this film so far, but reading that the ending has been altered (and more specifically, the identity of the new murderer ...), I think it's safe to say this has gone too far. (Boy, reading about this REALLY makes me look forward to what mess they'll make of The Pale Horse- I'm still mad about JJ Feild being Osborne.)

The moral of the story: you cannot out-Christie Agatha Christie. Stop trying.

MissQuin 07 Apr 10 at 9:29 a.m. GMT

I doubt I'll like Secret of Chimneys. I didn't like the book much, but without Battle and the real Bundle, I'm not interested.

I will probably watch them when they air on UK TV. I like to make my own mind up. If it is bad it'll give me something to moan about!

TheButlerDidIT 06 Apr 10 at 8:47 p.m. GMT

The book personally is one of my faves! So I doubt it!

MissQuin 06 Apr 10 at 1:30 p.m. GMT

No I'ts not been on yet. It's on DVd though, so that's how some people in the UK have seen it. I wouldn't get your hopes up though. But you never know, you might like it.

TheButlerDidIT 06 Apr 10 at 1:11 p.m. GMT

Has Evans been aired in the UK? Have I missed it?

McGinty 06 Apr 10 at 11:58 a.m. GMT

Well Shanty,maybe I'm the first, but I enjoyed Evans ! To be honest I've enjoyed all the new Marples, although not seen Chimneys yet.

MissQuin 06 Apr 10 at 11:38 a.m. GMT

Ok, so the latest Marple's havent got as many added homosexuals as the McEwans'. A sore point with alot of fans. But are they better- well I don't think so. It's like the balance is never right in the new Marple's. Theryre either too frothy or too dark.

Theyve not toned down the racy stories, seems theyve added more! I think a scene in Pocket full of Rye was cut out the UK version, because I didn't see it. Nor do I want to. It's not part of the story, not part of Christie's books. The new Marple's have upped the idea of unpleasant deaths.

Sorry I misunderstood you Shanty, well thanks for putting the link anyway!

shanty_sleuth 05 Apr 10 at 9:19 p.m. GMT

MissQuin

Shanty_sleuth, congratulations on your review. You highlighted the changes from the book so well, the adaptation doesn't sound much good. I had high hopes when Julia McKenzie took over, who is closer to AC's Marple. But I'd hoped the series would improve. It is not so...

We haven't had Why Didn't They Ask Evan's over here in the UK yet but from what Ive read, it's not worth bothering with. I heard it's rather grusome? so I don't know what the makers were thinking.

What have they done to Bundle?! I loved her high spirited, joie de Vivre, her energy. Why is she a middle aged, world weary spinster? Do they think that's more enjoyable to watch on screen? I don't think so!

I wasn't the one who reviewed the episode, but you're welcome anyway. 

Well, I suppose one could call the murders in the McKenzie version of Why Didn't They Ask Evans? gruesome. The killer/s, at one point, kill/s someone with snake venom and deadly orchids. It's not pleasant. And the denouement is so utterly stupid... but I won't go into details. I detest this adaptation, and have yet to find someone who actually liked it.

Ah, yes. I have no idea why they changed Bundle's character so drastically. I'm sure everyone would rather see the energetic Bundle instead of the spinsterly one.

GKCfan 05 Apr 10 at 8:15 p.m. GMT

Thanks for the great review, shanty_sleuth!  I prefer to be warned about changes beforehand so I know what to expect.

MissQuin 05 Apr 10 at 7:10 p.m. GMT

Shanty_sleuth, congratulations on your review. You highlighted the changes from the book so well, the adaptation doesn't sound much good. I had high hopes when Julia McKenzie took over, who is closer to AC's Marple. But I'd hoped the series would improve. It is not so...

We haven't had Why Didn't They Ask Evan's over here in the UK yet but from what Ive read, it's not worth bothering with. I heard it's rather grusome? so I don't know what the makers were thinking.

What have they done to Bundle?! I loved her high spirited, joie de Vivre, her energy. Why is she a middle aged, world weary spinster? Do they think that's more enjoyable to watch on screen? I don't think so!

shanty_sleuth 05 Apr 10 at 5:47 p.m. GMT

The episode has finally aired in Norway.

So, what has been changed? Who is the new murderer? Why does some of the plot resemble the short story The Herb of Death? And what is Miss Marple doing holding a torch while creeping through tunnels?

The answers, mon amis, can be found: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1511429/

Be warned: there are massive spoilers that will give away the killer's identity, their motive, and much more. Scroll down to see rabyhook's lengthly review, or visit the message board to read a thorough synopsis by ChateauVersailles. Then, return here and angrily vent your rage if you loved the book, and are horrified by its treatment.

MissQuin 10 Mar 10 at 4:42 p.m. GMT

Umm, an ego to match. Or is that just the macho Mr Nasty image that's put on for TV?

McGinty 10 Mar 10 at 4:30 p.m. GMT

MissQuin

Ahhh! Ok, maybe Simon Cowell could play a murderer but I think he's too busy!

Well, he does have a criminal haircut, that's for sure !

MissQuin 10 Mar 10 at 4:25 p.m. GMT

Ahhh! Ok, maybe Simon Cowell could play a murderer but I think he's too busy!

McGinty 10 Mar 10 at 4:24 p.m. GMT

I think Tommy meant Simon Callow

MissQuin 10 Mar 10 at 3:47 p.m. GMT

Simon Cowell?? I missed that one!

I didn't think Keria's height would be a problem, but she's in a play atm and doing Pirates 4 etc. I think the right age (24?) and slim enough. The fact Holly Willoughy's in Marple had caused a stir and she's not a Hollywood actress! In fact she isnt a actress at all.

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Mar 10 at 3:43 p.m. GMT

I agree MissQuinn Keira KnKnightly would be good but I think she is too tall, The Fame thing doesn't matter as Derek Jacobi and Joan Collins have both been in Marples as wel as Simon Cowell and I would have thought they were too Famous. 

MissQuin 10 Mar 10 at 3:36 p.m. GMT

Oh, yes I do know her! Thanks Tommy.  Yes, I remember her in Father Ted, doing the dream version of Ballykissangel. Theres no way whatsoever, despite her being a good actress, I'd see her as Bundle. I thought Keria Knigtley would be good as Bundle? but she's too busy and too famous.

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Mar 10 at 3:32 p.m. GMT

ervla Kerwin is an Irish Actress, she played Assumpta in BallyKissangle and played the The Defending Lawyer in the episode where she was Defending a Child in Law and Order UK, she also Narrated the Parrish programme which centred on a Female Vicar in Boscastle, She is definitely NOT my idea of what Bundle Looks like.

Considering how much they have changed things they could change the location of A Caribbean Mystery to one of the Channel Islands or Scotland or even a Coastal Town if Finance is the problem, I don't think it would take much tweaking and make much difference.

MissQuin 10 Mar 10 at 3:17 p.m. GMT

I forgot, seeing as The Pale horse, Secret of Chimneys and the short stories is being filmed, are they not bothering with Caribbean Mystery?

Ive never heard of the actress playing Bundle. I know a couple of the others, the casting is rather odd. We'll have to wait and see what it's like.

MissQuin 19 Jan 10 at 9:13 p.m. GMT

A mash up with Doctor who and Miss marple! Well, they did already do Doctor Who and Agatha Christie. Miss Marple knitting jumpers in the Eqyptian sun! I think the TV Marple might knit more that the book Marple?

Anyway add knitting, incest, homosexuals, affairs and a few comedians and you have a juicy, but ridiculous Marple TV adaptation of DEATH COMES AS THE END!!!

Bundle_ 19 Jan 10 at 7:11 p.m. GMT

They could always have Miss Marple stumble upon a time machine that takes her back to Ancient Egypt!

MissQuin 19 Jan 10 at 6:22 p.m. GMT

Miss Marple can appear in any nearly book now. The only ones I don't think they'd dare put her in is Death Comes as the end, set in Ancient Egypt!

Plus replacing Mr Quin with Miss marple would be very bizarre. She appears out of nowhere, with a spectrum of coloured light on her knitting..

Tommy_A_Jones 18 Nov 09 at 3:44 p.m. GMT

I know what you mean, There is an actress who is occassionally in EastEnders and I watch everything I sdee herr in if I can

lovelyissi123 17 Nov 09 at 10:04 p.m. GMT

Tbh I like to try and guess who's behind it all when I watch it. Sometimes it's predictable but sometimes I find it amusing guessing. Plus, I like the way Miss Marple is...she's quite sweet in her own little way.

Sometimes I like the storylines, but I'm mainly hooked depending on the choice of actors as sometimes they have cast members who can't act.

But this one sounds really appealing to me as Jonas Armstrong's going to be in it and I love him.

3rdGirl 27 Oct 09 at 9:41 p.m. GMT

lovelyissi123

I'm on the forum because I like to watch the programme sometimes. This section is called Television and Film after all.

That's so true. I think it's great that you like the programmes in spite of not having read the books. Hopefully it will entice you to read more of her books.

I think some of us are such fans of her written work that we really don't like it when the TV producers change the stories. I personally hate it, but I guess that if you've not read the books, then you can just appreciate the mini-movies as they are presented to us and enjoy a couple of hours of good television. My husband doesn't read any AC books, but he loves the Poirot adaptations. It really bugs me that he guesses the culprit so often though!

I absolutely love the production style of the Marples and the cinematography and how they are almost 'cheeky' in style. They are really colourful and quirky.

I think the Poirot's are a different style and a bit more sombre and serious.

What do you like about them lovelyissi if you've not really read the books?

lovelyissi123 27 Oct 09 at 11:19 a.m. GMT

I'm on the forum because I like to watch the programme sometimes. This section is called Television and Film after all.

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Oct 09 at 3:41 p.m. GMT

Good for you, and so am I

Puffinjill 26 Oct 09 at 3 p.m. GMT

Redecorating my own home so that it resembles Poirots is carrying my love for AC's books a little far!! And it's beyond my bank balance!! I'm happy appreciating her books and dedicating a few shelves in my home to anything she wrote. Yes, I'm pleased to have some DVD adaptations but I don't own all of them and, in fact, haven't seen all of them. It's the printed word (and the spoken word as I also collect her works in audio book form) that will always come first for me.

If I'm ever lucky enough to be able to afford to go to see a play or one day get to Greenway House I shall be delighted and enjoy every minute of it, but, until then, I shall get by very nicely reading my books, listening to my tapes/CDs and talking to you lovely people. And thats more than enough to make me a very happy girl!

So, yes, I am a nut.

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Oct 09 at 3:33 p.m. GMT

If stories have to be changed so drastically to gety young people interested I would rather not have them watch Agatha Christie Proiductions, If they need a "Pretty Face" to make them watch they should go and find something different to wath and leave real fans of Agatha Christie alone, If you have no intention of reading Agatha Christie books why are you on the forum?

lovelyissi123 25 Oct 09 at 2:11 p.m. GMT

I've never read any of these books nor do I intend to. Jonas Armstrong and charlotte salt are young attractive actors who will encourage other people to watch the programme. As I know many people who will only watch the programme because Jonas armstrong is in it, which is obviously why he has been chosen.

Having read the type of character he will play I can actually imagine his being like that. (he can act anything he's given). He has done other roles as well not just Robin Hood which show this - even a horror movie.

To be honest no book character is adapted 100% correctly. Even films like Harry Potter don't cast exactly, but you just get on with it and then you end up liking them afterwards. No one is really going to take the secret of chimney's too seriously otherwise it defeats the object of it being an entertainment programme.

To change the subject, when did they say it was going to be released again?

xxx

Tommy_A_Jones 24 Oct 09 at 1:34 p.m. GMT

I think you can class yourself as a true AC nut if you do everything you are able to do with in your own personal circumstances, The was someone on the site who was turning a room in their house into what they thought Miss Marple's sitting room was like, and nI would just LOVE to have a room like Poirot's sitting room but if you wouldn't go that far it doesn't mean you aren't a Fan, it is  up to the Indivdual, as long as you have read some of the booksd and intend to read others and/or have seen some Adaptations you can call yourself a Fan with Pride.

As long as Spider's Web isn't supposed to be as Chaotic and farce-like as the Production I saw I would love to see a Proffessional one.

Puffinjill 23 Oct 09 at 5:09 p.m. GMT

Oh, thats a real shame! Amateur Dramatic productions CAN be really great but they can also turn out to be THE most appauling things to sit through!

I would love to see ANYTHING by AC on stage. Obviously, The Mousetrap would be first choice - due to its reputation rather than anything else. After all, how can I class myself a a true AC nut if I don't, at least once in my miserable little life, get to see it. It has ben going long enough! I will probably finally try to book tickets for the week after it closes!!! That's my luck for you!! But, hopefully, I should be safe and it should keep going and going.

I would love to see Spiders Web too. I expect you wouldn't mind a half decent production!

Tommy_A_Jones 23 Oct 09 at 3:43 p.m. GMT

Apparently Agatha Christie didn't think an actor would be able to play Poirot well so she left him out, I am learning not to dwell on regrets but one is not seeing that play, the only Christie playes I have seen are The Mousetrap in London and Amdram versions of Spiders Web, A Murder Is Announced and Death On The Nile and the name was changed, A Murder Is Announced was played for laughs and the other two were Awful

Puffinjill 23 Oct 09 at 6:54 a.m. GMT

Thats the right word - dynamic! I was searching for that one in my little brain but drawing a blank! Remove any of the central characters from Cards On The Table and it will loose that dynamic. Its greatness is due to that closed, claustrophobic atmosphere so few main characters creat. And Mr Shaitana himself obviously thought it fitting that an equal number of sleuths faced a equal number of suspects. And fantastic to have all of those somtimes/regular sleuths comparing and contrasting their ideas and methods against all the others.

And you may still call me Jill, Bundle, or Puffin or anything polite! Bless you for asking! There are many names I won't answer to, but I'm sure you wouldn't think of uttering them!! 

Bundle_ 22 Oct 09 at 7:01 p.m. GMT

I love the dynamic of all the different detectives in Cards on the Table. And it was really a great book for me to start w/ (it was the first AC I read, btw) because it introduced some of AC's regular characters.

And should I still call you, Jill, Puffinjill?

Puffinjill 22 Oct 09 at 6:22 p.m. GMT

I've never been lucky enough to see any AC play. It remains on my list of things I must, must, must do if I possible can. But, like you, finances dictate what I can do and what I can't do!

I can't quite imagine Cards On The Table with only Ariadne Oliver and Battle. The fact that there are four sleuths and four suspects works so very well. I'm going to sound like Poirot, I know, but it's symmetry really appeals. Perhaps the theatre could help you find out the cast?

And of course you can call me Puffin!

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Oct 09 at 3:39 p.m. GMT

That's O.k. Puffin If I amy call you that, If Jasmes Fox couldn't manage Cards |On The Table I can't understand why they didn't just re-cast, after all he is only in 2 Poirot Books, AJ could have played Race and someone else play Dr Roberts.

I have just seen on Wiki, Cards On The Table was staged as a play in 1981 but the play didn't have Poirot I remember now i nearly saw a production in Cherltenham but due to finances had to choose between that or an Alan Ayckboure Play and chose Alan Ayckbourne, I would have lovewd to seen the AC, the only Sleuths were Ariadne and Battle, I wish I knew who they got for the roles.

Puffinjill 21 Oct 09 at 7:24 p.m. GMT

Sorry Tommy. By top shout I meant good choice! I can see the similarities and think Alex Jennings would make a fantastic Race. Very British and upright.

I didn't mean to confuse you, my friend. I hope thats straight now.

Bundle_ 21 Oct 09 at 3:58 p.m. GMT

susandiane

WHAT? Miss Marple (whom I DO love) in Secret of Chimneys? One of my all time favorite books (up there with Towards Zero and The Chronicles of Narnia) I hate when the "screenwriters" feel the need to shove Poirot (whom i also love) and Marple into the other stories. BUT, BUT, BUT, I ADORE Supt. Battle! Why take from him? If I wasn't married, and I wasn't an American 70 years younger than Battle, and he wasn't already married and (here's the big AND) he wasn't a fictional character, I'd be looking for that man!

ROFL! It's too bad Anthony Cade is a fictional character as well.

You might be happy to know that Battle will be in the adapt of Chimneys. I said might because the actor they've got to play him (I can't remember his name) is significantly younger than the real Battle, and he doesn't even look like what one would picture Battle in his younger years.

And I love Towards Zero, too! What did you think of the Marple adapation of it, Susan?

Tommy_A_Jones 21 Oct 09 at 3:41 p.m. GMT

Could you explain Puffin Jill? Do you not sdee the likeness between James Fox and Alex Jennings or do you not see him as Race? I have never heard of the expression Top Shout and the ? confused me 

susandiane 21 Oct 09 at 3:08 p.m. GMT

WHAT? Miss Marple (whom I DO love) in Secret of Chimneys? One of my all time favorite books (up there with Towards Zero and The Chronicles of Narnia) I hate when the "screenwriters" feel the need to shove Poirot (whom i also love) and Marple into the other stories. BUT, BUT, BUT, I ADORE Supt. Battle! Why take from him? If I wasn't married, and I wasn't an American 70 years younger than Battle, and he wasn't already married and (here's the big AND) he wasn't a fictional character, I'd be looking for that man!

Puffinjill 20 Oct 09 at 7:03 p.m. GMT

Oh, I know, Bundle, you are right. AC did physically describe characters for us but we all interpret those in our own way. Very rarely will any author give you EVERY single detail of a characters appearence or personality - it wouldn't be worth their time - because our own imaginations start to function as we are reading and will fill in any gaps to our own particular tastes. I'm pretty sure the way I see some characters will be fairly different to the way you see them.

So we don't really disagree. I am trying to see both sides but I'm probably just tying myself in knots!! And this time I am on the decaff..

Alex Jennings, Tommy? Top shout! Fabulous actor!!

Bundle_ 20 Oct 09 at 5:38 p.m. GMT

Tommy_A_Jones

Perhaps they should think about it like this; Simon Doyle (Death On The Nile) has been played by Simon McCorkindale and JJ Feild so maybe if the Dramatized said Book agaiin look for someone who has played the parts that those 2 have played or look for someone facially alike peopl,e who have played a part before

I agree, Tommy! And they could use them, literally, as character references.

To Jill: For once I have to disagree w/ you :-(. Forgive me. I think that AC, and many other authors, do give readers a vision of how the characters should look. For example do you remember Phyllis Logan who played Nurse Jesse Hopkins in "Sad Cypress"? She doesn't just look a little bit like her character she's a darn right carbon copy! I'm sure you'd find people on here who would agree, on some level, to that.

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Oct 09 at 3:34 p.m. GMT

Perhaps they should think about it like this; Simon Doyle (Death On The Nile) has been played by Simon McCorkindale and JJ Feild so maybe if the Dramatized said Book agaiin look for someone who has played the parts that those 2 have played or look for someone facially alike peopl,e who have played a part before for instance I think Alex Jennings bares a resemblance to James Fox who has played Colonel Race so if Bantry is portrayed again perhaps he should be played by Alex Jennings and perhaps Alex Jennings should have played Race in Cards On The Table but when Casting I suppose the makers have to see who is available and perhaps and perhaps their 1st Choices are Unavailable but maybe they don't want to be available because they don't want to be associated with Series's which have been less than excellent at times.

Puffinjill 19 Oct 09 at 2:29 p.m. GMT

Seconded!!! But thinking about it from the adapters point of view, how do you find someone to match the ideals we have all constructed in our own heads? It's impossible! Plus we all have a different idea of how we see each character too. I do think that sometimes their choices have been WAY off, almost as if they've never even read the book, but they really are on a hiding to nothing!!

Hang on, is this ME standing up for screenwriters and casting directers? I'm drinking my first caffeinated coffe of the day so I'll blame that. I think I'm safer on decaff....

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Oct 09 at 1:22 p.m. GMT

I agree 3rd Girl, some characters are better kept to the imagination.

3rdGirl 19 Oct 09 at 10:04 a.m. GMT

I love Jonas Armstrong, but he is no Anthony Cade.

I love Johnny Lee Miller, but he is no Mr Knightey.

Some characters are best left in the imagination. :-)

Bundle_ 18 Oct 09 at 7:34 p.m. GMT

Puffinjill

but I think he makes an AWFUL Mr Knightley in the current adaptation of Emma.

I'll second that!

Puffinjill 18 Oct 09 at 6:46 p.m. GMT

Again, nothing wrong with Jonny Lee Miller as an actor, done plenty of fine stuff (especially Trainspotting) but I think he makes an AWFUL Mr Knightley in the current adaptation of Emma.

I'm off topic again, so sorry. I'll shut up.

Tommy_A_Jones 18 Oct 09 at 4:05 p.m. GMT

I fully admit that I don't remember how Alan Cade is described but If there is a ruggedness to him surely it is not in the way Jonas Armstrong would look, I have been watching Emma and perhaps Jonny Lee Miller would have been a better choice as he has done alot more - Jonas has only been in Robin Hood as far as I can see or perhaps an actor I saw on Merlin called Santiago Cabera, perhaps Jonas would be better off as McGrath as see him less.

Bundle_ 18 Oct 09 at 2:41 p.m. GMT

As a huge fan of both The Secret of Chimneys and The Seven Dials Mystery I have a soft spot for them both and I don't like the fact that Jonas Armstrong is playing Anthony Cade. As I've said in another thread I don't have anything against him, but in my estimation he will NEVER be suited for the role, my opinion is the same for Charlotte Salt as Bundle. And that opinion will not waver. I'm not angry btw I'm just stating my opinion.

go_leafs_nation 18 Oct 09 at 2:26 a.m. GMT

THANK YOU! At last, someone who agrees with me! Take care, lovelyissi123, The Secret of Chimneys has a rather fanatical following on this site (although, imo, The Seven Dials Mystery was far better).

lovelyissi123 18 Oct 09 at 2:16 a.m. GMT

Jonas Armstrong is a brilliant choice. He is a fantastic actor who puts 100% into everything as is very versitile. In nearly all his roles he has played a man who is very much on the town and charming and definately a lady's man.

Can't wait to see how he does. I do wish you would all be a bit more accepting towards him and not judge. It is only a programme after all.

I think he'll do brilliantly and I can just see the chemistry between his and charlotte's character working together beautifully. That's obviously how why they've been cast.

Bundle_ 23 Sep 09 at 11:31 p.m. GMT

Are you saying that you are more adamant about the Holmes adapts staying close to the book than AC's adapts not staying close to the book??

go_leafs_nation 23 Sep 09 at 11 p.m. GMT

I don't know how I missed this:

Bundle_

And I think that the whole franchise has been adapted for screen and TV so much that any changes to it wouldn't be so bad; because 1. Perhaps fans want to see something new done w/ Holmes. and 2. The other adapts before Holmes are probably pretty faithful to the novels so the essence of them would never be ruined, namely: they have other adapts to fall back on if this one stinks, and this is not the case w/ Chimneys.

Have you seen the Rathbone films from the 30s/40s. A lot of them were ruined by obvious anti-Nazi propaganda, and nearly none of them were based on a book. Therefore, this Sherlock Holmes is the first one since Jeremy Brett's TV adaptations, which not too many saw in the first place. But now, all the shallow-minded teens looking for some sex scenes and fights will flock to this one.

Puffinjill 22 Sep 09 at 5:33 p.m. GMT

Stephen Dillaine is a fine actor but certainly not right for Battle.

I am soooo dreading this mauling, beg pardon, I mean adaptation of Chimneys. I need to stop getting too attached to these books....

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Sep 09 at 3:01 p.m. GMT

I don't suppose you have seen The Mousetrap have you Bundle, I have and if he shaved he could play one of the Characters with a bit of imagination, I have had another look at Stephen Dillane and I sought of can see him as Battle but I do think there are better Characters he could play, less important ones like Race or Dr Roberts in Cards On The Table

Bundle_ 22 Sep 09 at 2:37 p.m. GMT

I'm glad that someone agrees! And I know that Anthony Cade is supposed to be a man about town, but this Armstrong guy is waaaaaaay too rough and tumble.

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Sep 09 at 2:24 p.m. GMT

Bundle I have just had a look I agree If I was looking at the right pics it is a very bad choice. Jonas hasn't got the right face for Alan Cade, he looks to frivolous.

Bundle_ 22 Sep 09 at 12:12 p.m. GMT

Hi 3rd Girl! What do you think of Jonas Armstrong as Anthony Cade?

And Tommy, I just read on IMDB that Battle will be in Chimneys. So that's the good news. The bad news is - is that some actor named Stephen Dillane is playing him and he is young and doesn't have any Battle qualities at all: I can't see how he will pull off Battle's passive attitude.

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Sep 09 at 11:58 a.m. GMT

Surely they could just film at a British Beech and make it look like the Carribean, Good Idea about doing the short stories though 3rd Girl  

wolfbridge 22 Sep 09 at 10:42 a.m. GMT

carribean mystery would be too expensive now, they rather film UK based.

3rdGirl 22 Sep 09 at 10:09 a.m. GMT

I don't understand why they can't do 'A Carribean Mystery' or her short stories as TV adaptations rather than getting non Marple books and insterting her in them. The Sittaford Mystery and By the Pricking of My Thumbs were also awful adaps, because she just should not have been in them.

Bundle_ 21 Sep 09 at 11:51 p.m. GMT

My feathers are not ruffled, no worries. I am not a superfical person, I am just adamant about book character development. However I do have to disgaree and say that character resembalance does matter; it's NOT the only thing that matters, so I agree; and they don't have to be carbon copies either, but I think it would be nice if they resembled the characters at least a little bit.

And I'm sure that they could have found actors and actresses that not only look the part but are also talented. I'm sure that they are not the only ones to have audtioned or had been considered. As you said attractivness is subjective, however, in my opinion, Armstrong is not right for the part. C. Salt is an okay choice for Virginia however they could have gotten someone more glamorous and mature. All in all I believe that the majority of these actors are an incomplete package.

As for makeup, sometimes it can go over board and look cheap if one tries too hard. And I think Finney did okay w/ his role as Poirot. but the way he walked it was kind of comical. However, like you said, we have been spoiled by Suchet. I for one am glad - he looks like how AC described - it's too bad she didn't see him play Poirot.

Santonix 21 Sep 09 at 11:20 p.m. GMT

Oh, I don't wish to ruffle feathers, but it does bother me when someone complains about an actor/actress not looking like a character. For numerous reasons.

1. Makeup. Even if they do not look like the character now, a false nose here, some hair dye or a wig there, and we're set! Albert Finney looked nothing like Poirot, and indeed, he was 35 when Murder on the Orient Express started filming. But he had the mustache, the egg-shaped head, and he looked like an older man. His performance may not be to everyone's liking, but I think that's because we've been spoiled by David Suchet.

2. It's about who can play the part. If the choice is between a good actress who does not resemble the character and a mediocre actress who does, I doubt you'd rather they go with the less talented one. True, in some cases, the role is specific enough that you need a certain "look", but hair color? Hardly a matter for concern, unless it's integral to the plot. Think of Saffron Burrows in Towards Zero. Not a blonde, like Audrey Strange in the book, but does it even matter?

3. Availability. These actors might not have been the first choice, perhaps due to prior commitments on other films/programs or a contract dispute or what have you. It is folly to think that everyone in a film is the first choice, or that the filmmakers themselves are fully satisfied with the actors they're stuck with. Of course, no one is going to say that, but it is very often true.

4. Charlotte Salt is beautiful, and Jonas Armstrong is quite dashing. Attractiveness, alas, is subjective.

5. Dervla Kirwan does look too old. And I think we all know why Treadwell is a woman now. No doubt something to do with Lord Caterham becoming a servant-schtupper. This is ITV's Marple, after all.

go_leafs_nation 20 Sep 09 at 5:13 p.m. GMT

Tommy_A_Jones

If they Changed Halloween Party they would probably make the Victim choke on Apple Pie which would please the Americans but they wouldn't take out Ariadne because DS is a stickler for details and wo betide anyone who messes with the Adaptations too much so I have heard or am I wrong? 

Once again, I'm not too worried about that. The drowning makes it far more interesting. Besides, how can someone ensure that someone will die via choking on pie? Nah, the drowning is interesting enough to stay.

Bundle_

And even though I don't care for Holmes, I'll probably go and see the movie when it's in theaters because for one I am a mystery fan and two anything w/ Jude Law in it is bound to be great!

Have you seen the trailer? It looks like a dreadful attempt to adapt Holmes into an MTV movie. No longer is he an intelligent detective. He is notw a bare-chested action figure/boxing hero. And what place does Satanism have in Sherlock Holmes? *sigh*

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Sep 09 at 3:03 p.m. GMT

Tommy_A_Jones

I think Satterthwaite is short but as I am not sure what scrawny means I am not sure, but I am sure Art Malik isn't scrawny, btw It is a pity PU is no longer with us as I thought of him when Charles Cartwright was mentioned in the book.

I have just realised I have James Corden and Matthew Horne mudlled up because I don't watch Gavin and Stacey so I have slightly Changed my mind, I don't think Matthew Horne as Bill is that bad, but still pretty odd. btw I looked up the girl who is playing Virgina Revel I can see her playing her but Dervla Kirwan as Bundle is a really bad choice I think

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Sep 09 at 1:42 p.m. GMT

I think Satterthwaite is short but as I am not sure what scrawny means I am not sure, but I am sure Art Malik isn't scrawny, btw It is a pity PU is no longer with us as I thought of him when Charles Cartwright was mentioned in the book.

Bundle_ 20 Sep 09 at 12:44 p.m. GMT

Tommy_A_Jones

I don't always read discriptions I thought Michael looked like Laurence Fox or Jonathon Kerrigan or as I said Jude Law or the Blonde guy in TZ I can't remember his name

You mean Julian Sands. He and Laurence Fox and the others don't really have that eerie look of Micheal Rogers. For one thing, in the book, he has dark hair. No, Goran Visnjic really looks like him.

And someone named Charlotte Salt is playing Virginia Revel.

As for Steve Pemberton as Poirot I could never imagine it. For Mr. Satterhwaite...mmm perhaps. But isn't Mr. Sattherwaite a scrawny looking fellow?

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Sep 09 at 12:19 p.m. GMT

I don't always read discriptions I thought Michael looked like Laurence Fox or Jonathon Kerrigan or as I said Jude Law or the Blonde guy in TZ I can't remember his name

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Sep 09 at 12:12 p.m. GMT

Whose playing Virginia I can't remember ?sorry if punctuation isn't right, noyt my strong point, think James Cordon is a silly choice as Bill, the guy who played him in 7 Dials wasn't that fat but I did imagine him as fat but not that fat, btw Is it me or could Steve Pemberton Death On The Nile, and Murder Is Easy play Poirot? Mind you when I read TAT I thought of Steve Pemberton as Satterthwaite.

Bundle_ 20 Sep 09 at 11:45 a.m. GMT

You know w/ James Warwick I knew he had played a lot of AC's characters: Tommy, Bobby, and Jimmy. But for some reason I don't really mind. In some way he did kind of look like all of those characters. Don't you think?

But the whole cast stinks for the Chimney's adapt! W/ the exception of Codders, and Virginia Revel....But to be completely honest, they could have found someone much prettier to play Virginia.

And I agree w/ you about about Jonas Armstrong. I could see him in Sparkling Cyanide as one of the characters but not Chimneys!

And that's interesting that you mention who should play Michael Rogers in Endless Night. I think an actor named Goran Visnjic could play him rather well. Look him up and tell me what you think.

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Sep 09 at 11:36 a.m. GMT

I didn't really notice what Alan Cade should look like but because James Warwick played Bobby Jones and Tommy Beresford I just somehow assumed Alan looked like James Warwick, perhaps because he played Robin Hood which I am not a fan of I hate the idea of him having anything to do with Adaptations of books I like and can't really see him as an Agatha Christie Character, I agree with you that making Virginia Bundle's sister is stupid. I am not particularly a fan of Jude Law but can see him as Michael in Endless Night and if it hadn't just been done Luke in Murder Is Easy, I suppose Jonas Armstrong could play an unemportant Character from Sparkling Cyanide but I think they are all a waste of time as you knowe I don't like that book I suppose Jonas could also play the Doctor in The Moving Finger.

Bundle_ 20 Sep 09 at 12:20 a.m. GMT

I'm sorry, but I just can't just look past the "physical appearances" of literary characters. It does matter, because by these changes in appearnces ( i.e. Jonas Armstrong as Anthony Cade) it ruins Christie's vision of her characters. I don't see the harm in getting actors who look like the characters.

And it wouldn't have been be so bad if they deleted Dulcie and Guggle if they hadn't gone out of their way to make Bundle have a sister in Virginia Revel. What's the point in that?!!

And even though I don't care for Holmes, I'll probably go and see the movie when it's in theaters because for one I am a mystery fan and two anything w/ Jude Law in it is bound to be great!

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Sep 09 at 2:07 p.m. GMT

Tommy_A_Jones

I have just realised putting Miss Marple in The Secret of Chimneys is an Anachronism, The book ceme out in 1925 and Murder At The Vicarage came out in 1930 so putting MM in the book is silly.

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Sep 09 at 12:03 p.m. GMT

I have just realised putting Miss Marple in The Secret of Chimneys is very silly the 1st book with MM in didn't appear until 1930 and the book was Published in 1925, there is a word for it which I can't think of, Imagine domeone From the 20s being put in a 50s Cafe it wouldn't look right would it? If I think of the word I shall tell you unless someone comes up with it first.

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Sep 09 at 11:42 a.m. GMT

arcey and Guggle were Bundle's sisters weren't they, They didn't make a big impact on me so I don't mind if they don't appear, If Tredwell had to nbe made a woman they should have chosen the Actress who played Mrs Bale in 'As Time Goes By' That would have made  more sense, like go_leafs I don't mind about physical changes In 7 Dials Jimmy Thesiger has fair hair but in the Adap he has black hair and when I read the book I couldn't think of Bundle having fair hair, I kept on thinking of her as having the same colour hair as Grizelda in the JH version of Murder At The Vicarage I always think Blonde Actors/Actresses are too week for Strong Roles anyway. Why are people more likely to watch Miss Marple to Sherlock Holmes? I have never read the Holmes Books but I find MM and Poirot far more accessible than Holmes. I preferred The Secret of Chimneys to 7 Dials perhaps because I preferred the ending.

If they Changed Halloween Party they would probably make the Victim choke on Apple Pie which would please the Americans but they wouldn't take out Ariadne because DS is a stickler for details and wo betide anyone who messes with the Adaptations too much so I have heard or am I wrong? 

aurorajayne 18 Sep 09 at 11:58 p.m. GMT

This is the first I've heard of this new adaptation and I have to say, based on the changes to the story alone I will not go out of my way to see it.  As for casting, I always sort of envisioned Matt Lucas done up as an old man playing Lord Caterham.  Odd, I know, but for me it fits. :)

Bundle_ 18 Sep 09 at 10:59 p.m. GMT

People would go and see an Agatha Christie adapt like ATTWN or one w/ Miss Marple too if they were in theaters.

go_leafs_nation 18 Sep 09 at 8:20 p.m. GMT

The difference is that far more people will see Sherlock Holmes than Marple.

Bundle_ 18 Sep 09 at 7:44 p.m. GMT

go_leafs_nation

I'm not too big on physical differences

We all have our own vices. I for one am big on physical differences and the motto: If something isn't broken don't fix it. Why do they need to delete Dulcie and Guggle? And why do so many of the characters in the books appearences have to be altered on screen? You mean there was such a short supply of actors that they couldn't find a more handsome actor to play Anthony Cade? I doubt it.

I know Zoe Wannamaker would never step down from playing Ms. Oliver, although I do think someone else would be more suitable for the role. I'm just noting the many ways the people connected w/ the adaptations can change and alter plots etc.

As for Sherlock Holmes, I know you like those books as do many, many people, but I have never really cared for them: they are a bit too gory, in my opinion. No offense though.

And I think that the whole franchise has been adapted for screen and TV so much that any changes to it wouldn't be so bad; because 1. Perhaps fans want to see something new done w/ Holmes. and 2. The other adapts before Holmes are probably pretty faithful to the novels so the essence of them would never be ruined, namely: they have other adapts to fall back on if this one stinks, and this is not the case w/ Chimneys. It is a HUGE possibility that Chimneys will never be done again so this is the publics and avid Christie fans last chance to see it done right/ The same cannont be said about Sherlock Holmes.

go_leafs_nation 18 Sep 09 at 6:45 p.m. GMT

Puffinjill

Anyone mess with They Came to Baghdad and they will be answerable to me.

I wouldn't worry about Baghdad. Not only is it one of the less popular novels (I despised it, personally), but it's more of a thriller. Miss Marple wouldn't be caught dead in Baghdad chasing around a young man with her niece or whatever, and either way, the producers wouldn't want to send her there if Suchet does the Orient Express and Mackenzie goes to the Caribbean.

go_leafs_nation 18 Sep 09 at 6:40 p.m. GMT

I'm not too big on physical differences, to be honest. I don't cry that Susan was a blonde in the book and a brunette in the movie. I don't complain that Dr. Ffiliput is 5 foot 9 in the movie and 5 foot 11 in the book. I only complain when (say) a 2o year old plays a part intended for a 50 year old. In other words, I catch huge differences, but not minor ones. I might remember the plot of every AC, but I'm not a database for character descriptions.

As for the changes to Hallowe'en Party, it's one of my favourites, but not one of AC's best. I approach it like all the others novels, in that I'm open to changes, as long as they don't turn it into A Streetcar Named Desire. I personally think that they could have a lot of fun with it. And as Zoe Wanamaker is somewhat well-known, I'm sure they wouldn't drop an opportunity for her to return for an episode. And as she seems to enjoy her outings as Mrs. Oliver, I'm not worried about them recasting the character.

The Secret of Chimneys is definately altered. Anyone can tell. Whoever wants an adaptation that reproduces the book could've turned away months ago (I know we only just learned of it, but bear with me). The question is, will these changes be pulled off well like they were in A Murder is Announced or By The Pricking of My Thumbs or as poorly as they were in The Sittaford Mystery? Personally, I like the screenwriter's and director's previous work. I'm hoping for a good movie, even if it isn't a carbon copy of the book.

At any rate, I'm kind of scared to see what HOLLYWOOD will come up with when the AC copyright expires and her work floods into the public domain... See what they've done to poor Sherlock Holmes! **shudder**

Bundle_ 18 Sep 09 at 4:01 p.m. GMT

I could tell you weren't fond of it. But I am fond of the novel. 

I'm sure you wouldn't be too happy about it, mon ami, if they deleted Ms Oliver from Halloween Party or replaced her w/ another actresss like Geraldine McEwan who would never be suited for that role. And then they go around and change certain things from the novel like instead of the girl bobbing for apples she's now a he and he is playing football at the party instead of bobbing for apples. Now I wouldn't like these changes but I wouldn't talk or complain about it too much because Haloween Party isn't one of my favorites, and I know you like it. But you would probably not be happy w/ the changes and say much more about it than I ever would.

It's the same way w/ how I feel about the plot and cast for Chimneys: the majority of them don't look like the characters at all!

go_leafs_nation 18 Sep 09 at 3:38 p.m. GMT

Dare I say this? I'm not too fond of Chimneys (Seven Dials, the sequel, is far better in my opinion), and I probably won't mind this adaptation as much as Sleeping Murder and The Sittaford Mystery.

Tommy_A_Jones 18 Sep 09 at 2:54 p.m. GMT

Edward fox isn't too bad as Lord Caterham although I still prefer the idea of Geoffrey Hutchings playing him.

Think of it this way, If I told you to hit someone it would be up to you to turn round and refuse so if the Estate or the Producers told the Writers to write MM into a book where she doesn't belomng it is upto the Writers (and maybe even Julia McKenzie) to refuse, I bet if she did or GM had they would have to re-think their attitude.

Bundle_ 18 Sep 09 at 2:34 p.m. GMT

Oh I'm not giving any excuses to the producers, directors or the Christie estate w/ the handling of these adaptations. They are as much at fault as the screen writers. The casting directors are also to be very much to blame!

The only really nice casting, is as you said Tommy, Adam Godley. But the rest is just plain horrible!!

Tommy_A_Jones 18 Sep 09 at 2:30 p.m. GMT

I am SHOCKED, APPALLED, ANGRY and FURIOUS!!!!!!!!!!! How dare they mess with such a brilliant book? I personall would prefer they messed with Murder On The Orient Express I CAN see Miss Marple in that aswell as a couple of other Poirot's - Yes I know everybody else dissagrees with me but to destroy The Secret of Chimneys is disgusting, Please ITV if you are going to do anymore Non-MIss Marples and you aren't going to do Poirot books which you seem to think are off limits PLEASE do books where it dsoesn't matter if you mess with them like Endless Night, Sparkling Cyanide and Just perhaps The Man In The Brown Suit although I liked that, Great casting of Adam Godley though, I think he would make a good Tommy.

Bundle, you can't just blame the Screenwriters the people who let them like the Producers, Directors and the Agatha Christie Estate must take some of the blame.

Bundle_ 18 Sep 09 at 1:51 p.m. GMT

Puffinjill

Anyone mess with They Came to Baghdad and they will be answerable to me.

I'll shut up now and go away. I'm getting all worked up.

Haha. But you're right. It makes one so upset to see the books that we spent our time reading being destroyed on screen before our very eyes! I never thought I would be so upset over this, but it just proves that these screenwriters/producers have gone too far!

Puffinjill 18 Sep 09 at 1:42 p.m. GMT

I know! Why can't they and leave OTHER THINGS ALONE. I didn't know about this adaptation of The Secret of Chimneys and, again, I'm asking those same questions - why are they messing around with a great book? I am so hoping that you are right, Bundle and go leafs, and they will leave alone some of the texts. Anyone mess with They Came to Baghdad and they will be answerable to me.

I'll shut up now and go away. I'm getting all worked up.

Bundle_ 17 Sep 09 at 9:55 p.m. GMT

I would like to point out 2 things.

The first: I hope I didn't sound critical over the actress who is playing Bundle's age as I do NOT consider 37 as old in the least. I am NOT bothered about her age or her personaly. It's only the character changes I have a problem w/.

Secondly, go leafs I see your point about MM not being in Passenger to Frankfurt, same thing goes w/ They Came to Baghad. My Mom pointed out the same thing to me a few weeks ago: that there is no way they would adapt something as adventures, and complex as those novels w/ MM.

But why they cant adapt the short stories w/ MM in them is beyond me.

shanty_sleuth 17 Sep 09 at 9:41 p.m. GMT

John Strickland directed the McEwan version of A Murder Is Announced. I'm not worried about him. It's just that Mr. Rutman, who wrote the best adaptation last season, has rewritten this novel in the way we're accustomed to seeing Stephen Churchett do. I guess this could work. He's changed the book to have a more Marple-y feel to it. But I just can't grasp this strange plot. I mean, why is it so odd that Bundle and Treadwell are at Chimneys? Are they estranged from Lord Caterham? And I'm at a loss to see this Miss Blenkinsopp character being anything less than the murderer. Her inclusion seems so jarring, and it seems evident that she wasn't in the book.

I think that the title seems to have been expounded far more than in the actual book. Especially with that bit about the bones of the servant. Hmm. I think I'm still looking forward to The Mirror Crack'd from Side to Side more.

Bundle_ 17 Sep 09 at 8:40 p.m. GMT

You mean John Gielgud. I still couldn't shake the image out of my head that he was Beddoes in MOTOE. But I don't recall ever applauding him. But he was alright.

But I don't think of Edward Fox as hoity toity. I mean even when I saw him in Oliver Twist as Mr. Brownlow he just didn't pull off the rich persona right.

go_leafs_nation 17 Sep 09 at 8:35 p.m. GMT

I disagree. He could easily play Bundle's father. I believe you applauded the choice of the actor in The Seven Dials Mystery, and Fox has a resemblence in his aura (a superficial one, physically) to that actor.

Bundle_ 17 Sep 09 at 8:32 p.m. GMT

Edward Fox is a great actor, however he looks nothing like how AC described Lord Caterham. As for Bundle if AC had described her as 37 I still would have liked her, it really isn't her age I have a problem w/ because if Bundle had been in her 30's in the book and they made her in the adapt they made her to be in her early 20's I would have been upset w/ that too, it's just that this actress isn't how AC described Bundle.

And it is rather laughable. I mean: Jonas Armstrong, the scruffy guy from Robin Hood, as the handsome Anthony Cade!? Are they serious?

The only casts members so far I can see working are Charlotte Salt as Virginia, and Adam Godley as Codders: he really looks like him.

And so much for Dulcie and Guggle!

All I can hope is that Battle is the Chief Inspector. But if he really is in it ,I would be surprised because he would upstage Marple.

go_leafs_nation 17 Sep 09 at 8:24 p.m. GMT

I was expecting this, to be honest. Let's be serious, what other novels are there that Miss Marple would fit into? Passenger to Frankfurt? Murder on the Orient Express? And Then There Were None? Please.

I'm looking forward to Edward Fox being in an Agatha Christie again (he played Gudgeon in The Hollow). As opposed to Bundle, I think this is a good casting choice. He's perfect for the role.

The cast list is decent. The episode sounds like it may have been left in the wrong hands, though. Let's examine this further:

Paul Rutman (screenwriter) also wrote the script for the rather fantastic They Do It With Mirrors (he improved on the book, IMO, especially in the emotional detatchement of the book's characters-- plus he made the confrontation far more cinematic and engaging than the book's "two-people-shouting-through-a-closed-door-whilst-others-listen"). I'm not jumping to conclusions about him, though, as it's the only one he's done so far.

If I'm right, John Strickland is the one who directed the Poirot short eppy The Adventure of the Egyptian Tomb. That's... interesting.

My verdict: this might be worth watching. I'm certainly keeping an eye out for it!

Bundle_ 17 Sep 09 at 7:30 p.m. GMT

WHAT?! So this means that Miss Marple will be in the book!!! Noooooo!! And that Virgina is made into Bundle's sister! Horrible! And Tredwell is a woman! And "Gudgon" as Lord Catherham!

And I looked up some of the other actors and I am just in complet and utter shock that they got somone who is 37 years old (not that I am putting down that age) to play Bundle! Who AC clearly described as being much younger! She doesn't even look like her! I'm sorry but this woman is not Bundle!!! And the man they got ofr Anthony Cade! Are they kidding? He;s so rough and tumble: he is not attractive. And the guy for Bill he doesn't have a kind face like Bill does. I really don't want to see this adapt. These screen writers are ruining AC's plots. In my opinion, if she were still here, she wouldn't care for this one bit. Sorry if I sound really upset - but this cast list is pretty bad!!