Posted by Cassandra on May 31, 1997 at 11:32:46:
In reply to Re: sophie thompson vs. sophie thompson posted by kathleen (elder) on May 31, 1997 at 06:56:50
Sophie Thompson was brilliant in Persuasion. In just a few lines (whining all the way) and a few gestures she gave us a fairly complete portrait of Mary Musgrove. The tone of voice she used was perfect.
Brilliant is the word. She stole the show in Persuasion. I loved her first scene-doing the Camille act on the couch : "I am so ill, I can hardly speak....suppose I should be seized in some dreadful way and not be able to ring for the bell. It does not suit the Misses Musgroves to visit the sick."
Her intonation, expression-absolutely perfect, not a false note. She also instinctively knows how to make effective use of props. Notably, the tea scene in Emma2-"oh, sorry-napkin". And as Mary Musgrove: the way she capped off "I am very ill" by taking another bite of cake.