Discussion

[applea.livejournal.com]

While watching Blackadder over the weekend, I began to wonder- what would have happened if Rowan Atkinson had been asked to play Jeeves instead of Stephen Fry. I mean, Laurie's character is much the same (yet, dare I say it- smarter? in Plum's version) and both Blackadder and Jeeves share the similarities of serving the Prince/Wooster (henceforth shortened to Prince Wooster), rescuing him from the soup, being the cleverest one in the room, coming out ahead in every situation, and being darker to Prince Wooster's light.
Now, the characters are similar, but obviously different, so if Atkinson had gotten the role he'd be playing it slightly differently than he would his Blackadder role.

But it still stands Jeeves would probably sound much more blackadderish/malicious if he had gotten the role. How much do you think that would impact the message and interpretation of Plum's stories? And as a theoretical, which would you prefer/ think is more true to the stories?


For reference, here's a bit of Blackadder:
http://youtu.be/3iHPOabGtXs

Comments

[margi-lynn.livejournal.com]

I think he could pull it off, but that Fry got the part because the producers actually wanted to tone down the books instead of making Jeeves meaner.

There are a couple of spots in the script that, I feel, if done by someone without as kind a presence as Fry can be, would be more devilish than they really wanted for tv.

In the show, there isn't a way to have Bertie's cheery and effervescent stream of consciousness color the perceptions of the audience. It's a third person perspective focused on Bertie.

By default, if the show was to keep the same spirit of happiness, the meanness towards Bertie would have to be toned down. And that's something I don't think Atkinson could do as well as Fry.

[hazeltea.livejournal.com]

I think the fact that Fry and Laurie were a successful double act had more to do with it than anything.

[applea.livejournal.com]

I like this theory! Never thought of it, but you're right. Without Bertie telling us he took no offense, we'd be taking offense at the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune for him!

Although I think the double act they had certainly helped. :o)

[saylee.livejournal.com]

Heh. I get angry on Bertie's behalf anyway. The two Brinkley Court episodes in season one made me want to smash something.

[margi-lynn.livejournal.com]

Same here. I still don't like the 'kinder and gentler' actions towards Bertie.