CADFAEL
The Potter's Field
Sioned Jones as Generys
I filmed Cadfael in Hungary in 1997 and this episode was first broadcast in the UK on Carlton on 23rd December 1998. What follows is a couple of personal observations and photos that I took on the shoot.
With Sir Derek Jacobi
It is always an immense priviledge to work with a master craftsman like Sir Derek Jacobi. I can remember when I was little, my parents encouraged me not to go to bed but to stay up and watch "I Claudius" which they rated the best thing on TV around that time. (and for quite a while before and after!) My father was keen that I should witness real class performing and I am grateful to him for that and on reflection, getting the part of Generys and working with Sir Derek Jacobi is the probably the most proud I've managed to make him of me! I don't need to reel off the CV or to extol the virtues of his performances for these are self evident. What I can add however, is that despite all his talent and charisma, Sir Derek has to be one of the most modest, generous, unpretentious actors I've ever come across.
Mary McMurray
I wanted to include this picture of Mary McMurray the Director (this is my tiny tribute to her) as she is the one of the best Directors I have ever met. On set she was a legend in her own lunchtime. Mary claimed she only spoke a smattering of Hungarian, but on the first day on set she had prepared herself and addressed a full troupe of Hungarian extras for about 5 minutes in Hungarian. Without a script. After this she had the fullest admiration from every member of the team, cast and crew, Hungarian and English alike and had us all eating out of her hands.
Mary is a consumate professional. Most days we wrapped at 4pm (very unusual!)- a testament to the fact that she was very clear about what she wanted and good at communicating how she wanted it. I've met other actors who have worked with her and they will also tell you how she always gives notes sensitively, taking you aside, instead of criticising you in front of everyone as so many other directors do, and in such a way that you go away thinking, "That's a brilliant idea" or "Why didn't I think of that!" rather than going to the next take feeling a little more insecure. I rarely saw her do more than two takes of any shot and the crew loved working with her too. She has that magic balance of seriousness about the work in hand, making it art, but having a good laugh too.
On Set in the Morning
On Set at Night
I always think it is fascinating to see what goes on behind the scenes so I am includeding two photos I took of the Potter's Cottage while we were filming various scenes there. One is part of the morning shoot of drinking the poison and the second is later that night with the shots of Ludo returning to the cottage to find a cross to put on Generys' makeshift grave.
Cadfael related links