PRIDE AND PREJUDICE screenwriter decries tax changes
The Guardian has a column written by PRIDE AND PREJUDICE screenwriter Deborah Moggach bemoaning tax code changes in the UK that led to severe drop-offs in film production. Filming was almost ready to commence on an adapation of her novel Tulip Fever when the changes were announced. All work on the film, which was to star Keira Knightley, Jude Law and Jim Broadbent, was halted shortly thereafter. The tax code changes, which were announced last February, contributed to 2004’s 40% decline in film production in the UK.
She does find one bright spot:
My only solace is that our stars are still enthusiastic and that Alison Owen is a terrific producer. Somehow our film will get made. Meanwhile, at this moment, Working Title is putting the finishing touches to my adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. And guess what: of all delicious ironies, Elizabeth Bennet is played by - yes, Keira Knightley.
It sounds as though Gordon Brown will be persona non grata at the upcoming BAFTA award ceremony.
