by Littlebells and Openbook
Author Paullina Simons has recently announced that her novel The Bronze Horseman has found a production company and director who are enthusiastic about making her story come to life on the big screen. For those of you who are just joining us, TBH was the first book we reviewed at our sister site, Page to Silver Screen. An exceptional hit among our readers, having this beautiful story made into a film is a homerun! Or is it?
The Bronze Horseman is just the first book in a trilogy. In short, it is the love story of Tatiana and Alexander Barrington that spans decades from their first meeting in Russia. (Please see our book review and movie discussion.)
For many of Tatiana and Alexander fans, a film is a dream come true. However like many books adapted to the screen, TBH could either be exceptional or a complete disaster. There are many aspects that go into making a great and memorable film: a wonderful story, talented script writers that can still capture the essence of the book and translate it to the screen, actors and directors who have a deep connection to the characters, and a production staff that creates the mood and setting of the story.
ITA, a British production company has optioned to buy the rights. Russian-American director, Sash Andranikian is set to direct.[1] Chances are if the film does get made and is a success, the other two novels will soon follow.
Taking a look at a book series that have been adapted, let’s take a look at their film backgrounds.
Harry Potter was bought by Warner Brothers, and it’s first director was Chris Columbus. He is known for such films as Adventures In Babysitting, Home Alone, Home Alone 2, Mrs. Doubtfire, Stepmom and Bicentennial Man. He also wrote the screenplay for Nine Months, Gremlins, and The Goonies.[2] Both HP films he directed grossed a combined $534,528,506 nationwide. Not too shabby Mr. Columbus! Not only were children massive fans of Harry Potter, but so were adults both young and old. And as they say, “The rest is history!”
Twilight was bought by Summit Entertainment (now Lions Gate Entertainment). The first film was directed by independent film director, Catherine Hardwicke. Hardwicke is known for Thirteen, Lords of Dogtown, The Nativity Story, and Red Riding Hood. No big blockbusters although these films are recognized by many. The film grossed $141,449,475. The series continued to do well, but mostly among the fan base. Most reviewers of the films mock it and there are dozens upon dozens of parodies that can be found on youtube.
The Hunger Games was acquired by Color Force and entered into a co-production agreement with Lions Gate Entertainment. Director Gary Ross directed Pleasantville and Seabiscuit (7 Oscar nominations). THG grossed $407,999,255 nationwide. Surely the following books will do just as well or better.
As fans of The Bronze Horseman, the concern several of us have is translating the tremendously well written characters and emotions to the screen without sacrificing elements that made us grow to love these two beloved characters. Mr. Andranikian doesn’t have a very large repertoire of work for us to fully invest our trust in his ability to direct such a massive love story, but that is not to say the job can’t be done! There is also concern with those who will be cast as Tatiana and Alexander. Too big a name could be very distracting.
Choosing the Right Actor for the Job-by Openbook
A job that often goes unnoticed is that of a casting director or CD. The great director Jerry Frankenheimer once said, “Casting is 65% of directing.” The job of a CD often resembles that of a journalist (because she gets inside the heads of her cases) according to Avy Kaufman who’s worked with Ang Lee and Steven Speilberg she states;
“ ….whether it means scouring the theatre scene for “period” faces to cast upcoming Depression-era films Amelia and Public Enemies, or watching stacks of Russian DVDs to find actors for CIA thriller Salt. She says the emotional payoffs are similar, too: “If people can laugh, cry, or learn something from [the films], that’s just icing on what I do.”[3]
Its clear (for some of the actors being circulated for Alexander and Tatiana) there’s more to consider than just popularity. CD duo Victoria Burrows and Scot Boland who’s worked with directors Robert Zemeckis and Peter Jackson state “A lot of film acting is internal; it’s in the eyes, face, and subtleties,…..” Hmm! If that’s true than choosing an actor consist of the right period faces, expressive eyes, and most importantly the ability to connect and subtly convey the internal dialogue of that character on screen. Given this knowledge what actors do you think best exhibit these qualities for Alexander & Tatiana?
[2] http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001060/?ref_=tt_ov_dr
[3] http://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/resources/top-25-power-casting-directors-in-film-and-tv/
comicreleaf
comicrelief2
Comic Relief
parisienne
littlebells
Lurker
ozzie20
Open Book
LIH
linkedinhollywood.com 
LB- During our discussion on PTSS u made a wish list of actors u wanted for Alexander and Tatiana. Given it was over 6 months ago when we reviewed the book. How do u feel about the actors today?
Haha! I think it was more than six months ago. We reviewed it in 2011!!! :). However to answer ur question…let me go back and read what I said. Haha! I will get back to you
Wow! I was a little off with the time frame.Hahaha! I guess it’s because I’m having fun.
Do u hope they will splurge on a good editor and cinematographer?
ohmygoshtheybetterfrigginsplurge!!!!!!! Capturing the right moments at the right angels with the right lighting and scenery = too much for me to even handle!
Honestly, I would love to have a bunch of unknowns play the leads. Or at least actors that haven’t been thrust so overwhelmingly in the spotlight. I think Saoirse Ronan would make a fantastic Tatiana. She’s the only actress I can think of at the moment. Not that there aren’t other actresses, but so many fans are picking so many well known actresses and I’m sorry, I just don’t see it. I think they should look in the Russian/Ukranian acting community. I have a Ukranian friend who, if was blonde, would be Tatiana. She is petite and has the most striking blue eyes, nose and cheekbones. They can’t cast someone who can’t pass off the look of being Russian.
For Alexander, I don’t know. A lot of fans want Henry Cavill and I can see it. I really don’t have a set person in mind, but no one major in HW right now impresses me enough for him. Not to say that there isn’t someone in that pool of actors who could play Shura splendidly. 😉
Looks can be changed by diet, exercise, prosthetics, make up, etc…but what really is important to me, is the ability to capture the wide range of emotion. If I were Paullina (and this is all my opinion folks! 🙂 ), I would be thinking long term with the idea that my three books could all be made into a film. I wouldn’t want to have two or three separate Tatias or Alexanders. I would want to find actors who could play the leads from their late teens/early twenties all the way into their 80s. Now, this is tricky because looking at our own lives, we grow and change all the time. How I am now is NOT how I was 10 or 15 years ago. And I will not be the same in another 20 years. I won’t be entirely different, but life experience cultivates and changes you overtime. You see that with T & A. Although the same, they grow and change. You need actors who are going to be able to delve into their characters and really understand their thinking, reasoning, and behavior.
What do you think?
OB,
here are the actors that you suggested on PTSS:
Riccardo Scamarcio
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1249052/
Flavio Parenti
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2918889/
Luca Argentero
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1565817/
What made you pick these gentlemen?
What made me pick these actors? I’ve seen some of their work and was impressed. I watch a lot of foreign films and although they had a small part they really made an impression on me. They did not over act and they weren’t wooden. The actors being named so far fall into the over acting and wooden categories. The only name thrown into the pool (that I agree could nail Shura) is Robert Pattinson. However, after seeing him in Cosmopolis (which was such a nice surprise) I want to see what else he has up his sleeves. So in other words I’m content to sit back and watch him work and not dictate what I think he should do next. After I saw Cosmo I said, “This is a guy who has it all figured out.” Quick Paris what movie quote is this from? JK! LOL!
I agree with you OB. I think Mr. Pattinson could do a fantastic job as Alexander. The role is a “meat and potatoes” kind of role and from what I have heard, Rob does a lot of research for his characters. He really tries to get into their minds.
When I read people suggesting Channing Tatum, I about fell off the couch laughing. No dig to Mr. Tatum, but a period piece of this epic proportion? Sorry, I really, really don’t see it.
LB- ITA this is couch falling time. But maybe they will splurge on a good editor.
Paris- BTW I was kidding about u naming the movie quote. I know u know what film I’m talking about. Hahaha!
Out of OB’s list, Riccardo Scamarcio and Flavio Parenti are closer to what I imagined Alexander to look like. I’m with Paris when it comes to Rob! It’s hard to explain. I do think he could pull the role off, I’m just not 100% sure if he would fit it completely. I can’t describe it properly, lol. It’s just a feeling! Henry Cavill, as much as I like him too, he looks too old for my image of Alexander. Channing Tatum? Nope! He seems like a nice guy, I just don’t see him in that role!
Actress wise, I thought Elizabeth Olsen would be good for Tatiana. I like Saoirse Ronan too but she maybe a little bit too young going off the image I have in my head for Tatiana. Acting wise, she’s fantastic though. I can’t really think of anyone else!
Oz! ITA I’m not feeling CT. No, no, no, no!
Actresses: I like the selection u have for Tatia. What do u think of Mia Wasikowska?
I like her. She’s a very good actress too!
I don’t know what film that line is from. As far as Rob playing Shura…..nope. Rob, IMO, could play more intellectual characters, Think Tom Hanks in any Dan Brown film and that’s Rob. He’s very into his mind. You could put him in any uniform and he would never be Shura for me. Plus I don’t SWSNBN following him around in name only plus all the psychotic fans. Paullina deserves better. Nothing against Rob but don’t ruin TBH for me.
I get it. I think Dimitri would be a good role for him. Actually if Jude Law was younger, I think he could make a nasty Dimitri!
I would love to see Rob play a baddie. (bad guy)
LB stop tainting TBH with Rob. no just no. I’m allowed to go crazy psycho this time. LOL
Ok, I won’t taint TBH, but if it happened, I would support him. Yes, Rob as a “baddie” would be great. Dimitri was such a slime ball.
Oh! I think Rob can get dirtier than Dimitri. Dimitri is a mild baddie IMO.
So what I’m gathering is that we want to see Rob play one dirty, nasty, bad mofo? Like Calvin Candie? 🙂
Yes! But I like what he’s doing now. I really do mean it. I think he has it all figured out. Seriously, I can wait.
Paris- U don’t know what film the quote is from? Really? Hmm! O.k. Well I will let it go since LB and I are torturing u with RP being in TBH. Hahaha!
Hey! Where’s Ozzie? I miss Oz!
Ooooooooozzieeeeeeee! Where aaaaaaaaare youuuuuuuu? Hopefully she isn’t feeling under the weather. 😦
Ozzie is here and has been for the past 30-40 minutes! Ozzie is in a very go slow mode right now and has taken that length of time to catch up!
LOL! I’ll stop talking in the 3rd person now! 🙂
*hugs!*
Ozzie! Take your time its just nice to have u here. I always wait and come back to read your comments to give u time. So no worries.
Hi LB! *big hugs*
I’m sure I do know but what film is it from?
I’m not telling u? Hahaha! This is my belated April Fools day joke.
lol!
Paris-U said: “Rob, IMO, could play more intellectual characters, Think Tom Hanks in any Dan Brown film and that’s Rob. He’s very into his mind.”
Yes, he’s a researcher a truth seeker. Curious is what I call him! I love it!
LB- U hit the nail on the head I really can’t agree more. What makes these characters so endearing is how realistic and authentic they are. U can’t do some pre-packaged warmed over made for TV performance and expect it to fly. My point is u need someone who can really analyze a script to tap into the real essence of these characters. My rant is over.
It’s so nice to have someone on the same page. 🙂
OB,
I can’t believe I’ve overlooked casting directors and their important role in the film industry. Who are some of the more prominent casting directors?
Great Q. LB- Here’s a list of the top 25 casting directors.
http://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/resources/top-25-power-casting-directors-in-film-and-tv/
great list! I’m going to take a look at it more thoroughly. 🙂
Who has the final say in casting: CD? Director? Producer?
the director. CD’s only find people. That’s their job. To find people. They have no say in who gets casted and what not.
That’s true Directors & CD’s find people but they still have to choose them and put them in front of those paying the bills. No? I may be misunderstanding the question. I’ve been relaxing today. Hahaha!
I would say Director makes final approval.
great minds, OB. Great minds.
Hmm! U may not want my mind today. I’ve been reading The Godfather all day. LOL!
I can’t wait for your comparison of book and film!
I need to watch the film again. But its nice reading the book. Its a lot more detailed.
Thanks ladies! That’s what I thought, but wasn’t sure. I can’t imagine how much work goes into finding people to cast. At what point of an audition processes does an actor actually get into costume and make up (if they do at all)? I know there are readings, but I would think CDs and Ds would want to visually “see” their characters.
It depends on how many auditions an actor does. For example, 10 years ago Sally Field auditioned and was asked to play Mary Lincoln by Steven Spielberg. However, for whatever reasons the film got put on hold that long. When DDL was brought on as Lincoln SF thought she was out because Mary was younger than Lincoln.
To make a long story short, Spielberg and Lewis let SF audition AGAIN. IN COSTUME with DDL to see how it would go.
IMO, its nice to see an actor go all out during an audition. It helps everyone see what the actor is gravitating toward when developing a character. Does that make sense?
Thank you both, again!
I’m learning alot of things here! 🙂
LB & OB,
What a great article topic? Though I heard quite a bit about the novel; (and did not read it). It upset me that I thought Russia wasn’t going to be the central location of the story, but this is purely speculation on my part. “A British production company”, doesn’t necessarily preclude an extremely Russian movie, (even if filming primarily depends on British sites). American production companies frequently plan to take movies to far away locals.
CR,
I would love to see it filmed in Russia, specifically all the locations. Even if they had to build replicas of Tatiana’s family’s home to make it period, I would be happy. The Summer Garden and the bronze horseman statue are very important. There are great pics on the PTSS review page.
Do not worry CR & LB! Alot of our period drama is filmed in Eastern Europe now. It may not be in Russia but it’ll be a close neighbour. I’m sure for the landmarks that feature in the book they’ll film in Russia or do a decent replica of it. The indoor scenes can be filmed anywhere really. We’ve got a number of good ones (Elstree, Pinewood, Shepperton and Leavesden. It always surprises me how many big blockbuster films are filmed there as I automatically assume if it isn’t set in the UK, it’s filmed in L.A.) so part of it could be shot here.
Well that’s good to know although I doubt I will ever watch the film. I need someone I trust to watch it first and tell me that I will be pleased with the results. 🙂
Do u think CGI will be used more than location footage? What would u prefer have them splurge on scenery or a good cinematographer?
Many have discussed how distinct locations can be considered alternative cast members; and Russia was a huge as part of Simon’s novel.
Since you both of you were talking about casting agents I thought I would look up some well-known location scouts in CA, to support my preference for the history and topology of well-known locations.
http://www.locationscout.com/
http://www.scoutingny.com/
http://www.calocationscouting.com/
location really is it’s own cast/character! It truly helps or hinders in my opinion. Even if a location can’t be used, finding one similiar and creating the same environment as the desired spot is greatly beneficial than using a sound stage.
location and a cinematographer who knows how to capture the beauty that will make u fall in love with the movie.
While I was out running errands today, I was thinking about our discussion which led me to thinking about the books which led me thinking to Vicki and Anthony which led to the whole last book and I realized…I don’t know if I can ever read past the first book again! Simons writes such incredible, real life dialogue, reactions, and emotions in her characters that you can’t help but feel the raw intensity of it all. Just thinking about it and I’m a mess!
Hi Everyone!
Hi OB! How are you? Feeling a little rested? I’m watching TPB as we discuss. haha! 🙂
hi!
Hi LB & Paris! LB I’m jealous. I’m being a complete recluse today. I’ve been reading The Godfather. Hahaha!
Good for you! I finished TPB in one night! Now I have to finish TG.
Hi Paris! How are you?
I wonder if it will actually be filmed in Russia seeing as Russia now has a booming cinematic economy.
Great question and I would LOVE that.
What actors/actresses do you think could possibly give T & A justice?
What do you think of a film as opposed to a longer mini series?
I always thought of the books as being adapted as films but a mini series works just as well these days, if you have the right people behind it.
I always saw film adaptation also Oz! Mini series would water down the characters.
Yeah, that’s the problem. If it does go down the mini series route, it needs to be very short. Like 2 or 3 shows at the most, otherwise they would need filler for time and that’s where it starts to go wrong. I have seen book adaptations that have just two long episodes and they’ve been fantastic. I’ve seen some that have done a longer series and they’ve lost their initial punch. I think you need the best of the best when doing adaptations this way.
In looking at Sash’s (the director) film background, what reservations might you have?
Oh! Goodness do we have all night? Well I have a few. Let’s see his short film he directed got bad reviews is a start. But I will leave it at that.
No, no, please give us all your thoughts! That’s why we are here to discuss. Why do you think Paullina seems pleased with the results of director and production company?
No! It will just be mean to continue to talk about him. I mean u have to start somewhere. However, I’m sure they picked him because he’s easy to manage than a experienced director who might go way over budget. I mean this director doesn’t have a reputation to protect etc.. the best thing to hope for at this point is a miracle worker editor IMO.
Ok, ok, I see you are trying to take the high rode here so I won’t push it anymore. Do you think…and I hate asking this…Paullina settled?
I’ve totally bypassed the road. Honey, I’m in the clouds with this one.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!
in looking at some of the latest trilogies/series made into films, the rights have been bought by BIG studios and the directors have impressive directors. Why do you think TBH hasn’t been sought out by such studios? Also, it seems TBH has a very wide and popular audience and yet I’ve never heard of it being on a best seller here in the states. Why has it been overlooked?
I’ve read Keira Knightley suggested for Dasha. Thoughts?
Hello everyone! 🙂
Very interesting article! There’s alot of things to look at when making a film!
YAY!!! you heard me calling you via cyberspace!!!! 🙂
Hi-Ozzie! I was just talking about u. Hahaha!
LOL! Yeah, I’m still in an extremely slow mode!
I will share my Kale juice with u. That will give u a boost of energy and something else. Hahahaha!
I know so many people who are juicing right now! Hubs started up again.
I would try juicing if my bloody kitchen was finished! No point at the moment unless you want brick, plaster and saw dust in it!
Oh! Oz. I feel for u.
paris,
did you read the comments on Paullina’s blog?
no. i haven’t been there in a while.
some are pretty interesting as far as casting
ladies i’m leaving for the evening! great discussion!
Goodnight!
Goodnight Paris.Don’t stay up all night trying to figure out my movie quote. Hahaha!
Night Paris!
Everyone!
I have to go for the evening. I will check back later. CR we missed u.
TC!
Good night OB!
Ozzie, I’m heading out as well. So glad you popped in! I owe you an email!
CR–missed you and hope all is well. 🙂
Lol, I owe you one too LB! I actually I owe several but I keep forgetting (more so than usual, I mean!)! I’ll be so glad when this build work is finally done so I can get my mind back. It’s literally driving me crazy!
Well, I better get some sleep. Night from me too! 🙂
So Child 44 is in the works with Tom Hardy (woohoo), Gary Oldman (double woo-hoo) and Noomie Rapace. Director is Daniel Espinosa. Take a look at his other films:http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1174251/?ref_=tt_ov_dr
Ok, so why is TBH, again, not being bought up by big studios and directed by a bigger known director??????
That’s great about C44. AWESOME! I still need to finish reading it. But TBH I don’t know? Perhaps if they put Wonder Women in it it would snapped up.
Hahahahaha!!! Come hell or high water we are getting WW Into a film! 🙂
Hahahaha!
OMG, Child 44 is going to be good! I only finished reading the series about a month or so ago and I was trying to figure who would be my dream cast would be while reading it. The cast is a little older than I thought, but to be honest talent wins over correct age/looks in my opinion! 🙂
ok, I know I said I wouldn’t want big stars for TBH, but what about Christian Bale as Dimitri? He is a very talented actor who does amazing movies and roles, but he stays out of the spotlight. Am I crazy?
How about Sam Rockwell as Dimitri? & No! Your not crazy but CB is suppose to be the same age as Alexander. No?
Dammit!!!! Yeah, you are right. And I LOVE SAM!!!!! Tom Hary needs to find his way into this film… Oooooo!!! Do u think Hardy could possibly play Alexander??? Color his hair, he’s got the right build… Hmmmm? Ok now ive really lost it.
LB-We are both dreaming and in the clouds. So why not live it up. Hahaha! But Yes Tom Hardy. I like too.
I love the clouds! We will create our all star cast!
Darn tootin we will. We deserve it LB and so does Paullina.
I’d like to see Sam in C44! Loved him in The Hitch Hikers Guide To The Galaxy!