MovieChat Forums > Lost in Austen (2009) Discussion > Tom Riley (Wickham)

Tom Riley (Wickham)

posted 14 years ago by segara
6 replies | jump to latest

I saw the entire thing on Monday night and while I thought that the show itself was fanfiction (not big on that) someone decided to write a screenplay on, I am smitten with Tom Riley and his Wickham.

The makers of the miniseries kind of shot their ending in the foot by casting him in that role. He was so absolutely charming and charismatic onscreen, especially compared to the flaky prick that Darcy was turning out to be (he wants her one minute, he doesn't the next), I was certain that he was going to be our true hero.

I didn't understand why they would write him like that and not have Amanda end up with him. So I wondered if it was the actor more than the writing that got me. I watched the episode of Poirot and Miss Marple that he was in. He didn't have a lot to do in Miss Marple, but Poirot (also starring Christina Cole, aka Miss Bingley) confirmed my suspicion that even in a role is supposed to be uninteresting, Tom Riley is magical onscreen.

I don't think Wickham was supposed to be as attractive as he turned out to be. If I had been the director, I would have changed the story while filming to give more time to the better actor, as well as the character that Amanda seemed to have better chemistry with. Plus, I was sure that it would be revealed at some point that Wickham was from the modern world as well. Something about all that didn't add up.

ETA: The ladies at Austenblog seemed to agree with me when they were watching it last year: http://austenblog.com/2008/09/17/lost-in-austen-episode-three/

Your thoughts?

[–] 14 years ago

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[–] alfa-16 14 years ago

I don't think Wickham was supposed to be as attractive as he turned out to be.

I agree. I wondered if his character was fitted to the 'drowning raft' line in the editing room. He delivered so well, it was impossible not to believe him sincere.

They started several other promising hares running without any development, such as Mrs Bennet and Lady Catherine both appearing to realise there was something VERY different about Amanda.

I enjoyed it but I think more confidence on the part of the producers and another month on the script might have made it more memorable and longer lasting.

Which is why I'm rather keen to see the follow up. Lizzie in Manhattan. Yes please.

[–] SkippyJonJones 14 years ago

Absolutely agree about Wickham. Tom Riley is a tremendous actor -- I can recommend his episode of Inspector Lewis too - he was fantastic. He's also in a movie coming out soon, with Sally Hawkins, called Happy Ever Afters. I think he made the most out of every line he was given.

I can't say I'm looking forward to the Americanizing of Lost in Austen -- I'm hoping it's safe in Sam Mendes' hands, but I have serious doubts. If it ends up like Confessions of a Shopaholic, I think I'll cry.

[–] Esmacious 14 years ago

I wondered if his character was fitted to the 'drowning raft' line in the editing room. He delivered so well, it was impossible not to believe him sincere.

I think he was sincere. But it's no more than he did for Georgiana Darcy. He just happens to have a heart of gold underneath his rakish exterior - but he loves playing the dashing officer too much to give that up.

As far as Amanda goes, I don't think he's in love with her the way Darcy was. He just recognises her as a kindred spirit.

[–] brilliantholmes 14 years ago

I totally agree with the OP about Riley/Wickham. Great chemistry, great acting, and really, really hott. He was the highlight of the movie, by far.

I think I might have to watch some of his other stuff now! You say Poirot was good? I might have to check it out

[–] dakky68 11 years ago

I think he fit the role perfectly. I love the way he sneers "What is 'neon'?". And Wickham's definitely my favourite character in the whole show - I love the lines he was given, he stole the show.