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sunshine jen: Dear Dame Judi Dench
Dear Dame Judi Dench,
You are a fabulously talented actress; however, I was deeply troubled by your latest film, Mrs. Henderson Presents.
First of all, let me just say that Mrs. Henderson Presents is a fabulous film, well produced, well written, well directed, well acted. Bob Hoskins has revealed himself to be a man of many talents in this film. You of course gave a great performance in all your fabulous talentedness.
What troubles me is. . .oh, I don't know how to say this. . .it's just that. . .all your characters recently are just. . .so. . .so. . .old.
Please don't take this the wrong way, you are fabulously talented and a Dame to boot. It's just that you have so much energy, so much life, so much umph. I just don't understand why you don't get to play younger parts.
For example, in the latest film version of Pride and Prejudice, why didn't you get to play Elizabeth Bennett? Yes, I know it was Keira Knightley's part. But then you could have played Jane Bennet or Lydia or Kitty or Mary or Heloise (the mute sixth sister). Instead, you got to play Lady Catherine de Bourg, a wonderful part played wonderfully by you because you are fabulously talented, but you just seem a little young for her.
Yes, actresses should grow old with dignity and grace, and Dame Judi, you have done that in spades. No one questions your dignity or your grace. Now, how about playing some other great parts? Like Juliet in Romeo & Juliet? Masha in Three Sisters? Or, I know, Ophelia in Hamlet? How about a production of The Sea Gull where you play Nina and not Irina Arkadina? Or Importance of Being Earnest where you play Gwendolen or Cecily instead of Lady Bracknell? There are so many ingénue parts. The possibilities are endless!
You don't have to commit to anything right now. I know you are busy making the next James Bond movie. I personally believe M could give any Bond girl a run for her money. All I ask is that you consider this proposal by a humble drama critic and theatergoer. Whatever you decide to do, I will always be cheering your fabulous talent.
Your humble servant,
Richmond Henderson
Chief Drama Critic
Sunshine Jen
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