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Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Vera's Brenda Blethyn looks unrecognisable as she bids farewell to iconic role
The 79-year-old actress will debut her new film, Dragonfly, at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in August, after it was met with glowing reviews at Tribeca Brenda Blethyn is set to star in the gripping new thriller Dragonfly, a far cry from her iconic role as DCI Vera Stanhope, with the film set to premiere at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in August. The movie follows the story of Colleen, played by Andrea Riseborough, who takes it upon herself to care for her elderly neighbour Elise, portrayed by Blethyn, amidst concerns that the professionals are not doing an adequate job. However, it remains to be seen whether Colleen has ulterior motives or if those around her are simply making unfounded judgments. The film boasts an all-star cast, including Jason Watkins as John, Sandra Huggett as Mary, and Lolly Jones as Jane. Having garnered widespread critical acclaim at Tribeca, Dragonfly has already achieved an impressive 92% approval rating, reports the Express. Since her departure from the hit series Vera, the 79 year old actress has gone on to take on a string of exciting new projects, including the highly anticipated historical comedy Fools. Directed by Paul Andrew Williams, Blethyn's latest venture has been hailed as a "stark, fierce and wonderfully acted film" by The Guardian. The Film Stage praised the film, saying: "Williams and his brilliant cast create a film that is equal-parts tender and shocking, turning horror tropes on their head." NYC Movie Guru lauded Blethyn's performance as award-worthy, adding: "What begins as a slow-burning and tender drama with shades of Mike Leigh turns into a dark and gripping Hitchcockian thriller. "Brenda Blethyn and Andrea Riseborough give powerful and Oscar-worthy performances that ground the film in raw authenticity." Brenda's latest role comes almost a year after she was spotted filming her final scenes for Vera in Newcastle. ITV left fans heartbroken when they announced in spring 2024 that the beloved detective drama would conclude this year, following a triumphant 14-year run. The plot summary for Dragonfly is as follows: "Disgusted with the state of care that her elderly neighbour Elsie is receiving, Colleen offers to help for free. "Over tea and through trying moments, the pair become trusted confidants despite their differences. But Colleen's intentions may not be exactly as they seem. As suspicions grow, a shocking act triggers a violent chain reaction that threatens to irreparably alter the lives of both women." Dragonfly will premiere at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in August.
Wales Online
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Brenda Blethyn's 'gripping' new thriller confirms UK screening and its not far away
Brenda Blethyn's 'gripping' new thriller confirms UK screening and its not far away Vera star Brenda Blethyn stars alongside Andrea Riseborough and Jason Watkins in new film Dragonfly which will be first screened in the UK at Edinburgh International Film Festival Brenda Blethyn's new thriller has confirmed it's first UK screening and fans don't have long to wait (Image:for the NTA's ) Brenda Blethyn's new thriller has confirmed it's first UK screening and fans don't have long to wait. Dragonfly will be shown at the Edinburgh International Film Festival which runs from August 14 to 20. It will be screened on the Saturday, Monday and Tuesday at the event following it's world premiere at The Tribeca Film Festival last month. The film follows a woman named Colleen who takes it upon herself to look after her elderly neighbours Elise, as she believes the professionals aren't doing a good enough job but does Colleen have an ulterior motive or are the people around them just mistrusting for no reason? Brenda stars alongside Andrea Riseborough and Jason Watkins and following the positive reviews from critics who saw the film at Tribeca, it an gained an excellent 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Hearts broke across the nation when it was announced by ITV in spring 2024 that Vera would be coming to an end this year (Image: ITV ) Article continues below It comes after the actress was spotted out and about in Newcastle almost a year to the day that she filmed her last ever scenes for Vera Hearts broke across the nation when it was announced by ITV in spring 2024 that the popular drama would be coming to an end this year after 14 years of being one of the biggest crime dramas on British TV. Brenda has lined up a number of exciting TV projects since stepping down as iconic detective, DCI Vera Stanhope and among them is upcoming historical comedy, Fools. The TV icon stars alongside Karen Gillan and Jim Broadbent in the upcoming film, which explores the little-known story of Mary Tudor's friendship with her female court jester. Brenda has lined up a number of exciting TV projects since stepping down as iconic detective, DCI Vera Stanhope Fools is set in 1553 in the aftermath of Henry VIII's death, the period comedy follows England's first Queen, Mary I, as she takes the throne in the midst of a country on the brink of chaos, reports Hello! A synopsis from Variety reads: "While the ambitious Cardinal Pole plots to secure control, he overlooks a humble court jester, Jane Foole. "The pious and apparently humourless queen finds Jane's brilliant slapstick routines uproariously funny. "They strike up a genuine friendship, the comedy lightening Mary's mood in the darkest of times, and helping fend off Pole's murderous manipulation but can Jane's comedy save a nation from civil war?" Article continues below Dragonfly will be screened at the Edinburgh International Film Festival next month
Daily Mirror
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Vera's Brenda Blethyn lands role in 'striking' new historical comedy
Actress Brenda Blethyn is currently filming the reboot of A Woman of Substance but she will be working on another historical piece later this year Brenda Blethyn has lined up a number of exciting TV projects since stepping down as iconic detective, DCI Vera Stanhope, in ITV's long-running crime drama Vera and among them is upcoming historical comedy, Fools. Brenda stars alongside Karen Gillan and Jim Broadbent in the upcoming film, which explores the little-known story of Mary Tudor's friendship with her female court jester. The news comes as the 79-year-old films the reboot of A Woman of Substance, which was previously a TV hit in 1984 and shot a young Jenny Seagrove to fame. Fools is set in 1553 in the aftermath of Henry VIII's death, the period comedy follows England's first Queen, Mary I, as she takes the throne in the midst of a country on the brink of chaos. A synopsis from Variety reads: "While the ambitious Cardinal Pole plots to secure control, he overlooks a humble court jester, Jane Foole." It continues: ""The pious and apparently humourless queen finds Jane's brilliant slapstick routines uproariously funny, and they strike up a genuine friendship, the comedy lightening Mary's mood in the darkest of times, and helping fend off Pole's murderous manipulation. But can Jane's comedy save a nation from civil war?" Directed by Guy Jenkin (Outnumbered) the cast is led by Doctor Who star Karen Gillan as Mary Tudor. She stars alongside Patsy Ferran (Hot Milk, Miss Austen) as the jester, and Jim Broadbent (Harry Potter, Moulin Rouge) as a scheming cardinal. Details about Brenda's character have yet to be revealed. Guy said of the film: "I am thrilled to be working with such a supremely talented core group of actors on Fools. Together, we will tell the untold story of the strange friendship between England's first Queen, and her female jester. Fools will turn the conventions of a historical film inside-out, and promises to be subversive, striking and very funny." Producer Ryan Bennett of PaperEpic Productions added: "With Fools, Guy has discovered a fascinating, hidden piece of history. This is a story where comedy actually saves lives. It's a defence of moderation, and a celebration of the power of laughter." The film is set to be shot later this year, with a release date yet to be announced. Meanwhile, Brenda has already been busy filming the reboot of the Emmy-nominated series, A Woman of Substance for Channel 4. The series, based on the 1979 novel of the same name, chronicles the life of Emma Harte, a Yorkshire housemaid who rises to become a successful department store tycoon.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
4 penny stocks to consider buying while their prices are this cheap
Many speculate on which penny stocks might rapidly soar in price. But here at The Motley Fool, it's worth reiterating that we follow Buffett's famous investing maxim: 'Our favourite holding period is forever.' In other words, we're not simply looking to cash out when a former penny stock hits the big time. Instead, as Fools, we're looking for long-term investments in quality — but perhaps underappreciated — companies. Here are four of our contributors' favourites for investors to consider buying right now! What it does: This investment company focuses on cellular agriculture, precision fermentation, and biomanufacturing. By Charlie Carman. From deforestation to greenhouse gas emissions to antibiotic use on livestock, there are many problems with conventional farming methods. Agronomics (LSE:ANIC) invests in companies offering innovative solutions to these issues. The UN predicts that global food output needs to rise 60% by 2050. Novel agricultural developments will be required to meet exploding demand, and Agronomics is well-placed to benefit. The group has exposure to over 20 companies that produce animal products from cell cultures, such as meat, leather, and dairy. This process removes the need for animal slaughter. Granted, these nascent biotechnologies carry significant risks. Encouraging mainstream consumer adoption is a major challenge, since many people are reluctant to consume lab-grown meat. There are also regulatory hurdles and trade barriers to contend with. Despite the risks, trading at 7p today, this penny stock offers a promising long-term investment opportunity to consider in an industry with massive growth potential. Charlie Carman does not own shares in Agronomics. What it does: DP Poland operates the Domino's Pizza franchise in Poland and Croatia. By Ben McPoland. I reckon DP Poland (LSE: DPP) has a lot of promise. As I write, it's priced at 9p, giving the small enterprise a market cap of £89m. Admittedly, this penny stock has been drifting in recent years. This is partly because small-cap stocks are out of favour with higher interest rates, but also because the firm is still loss-making. This lack of profitability is a key risk here. Having said that, losses are narrowing and the market anticipates a first profit next year. The move towards a capital-light, franchise-led model should help things advance from there. Meanwhile, growth remains decent, with like-for-like sales rising 2.9% and system sales up 6.5% in the first quarter. Revenue is expected to reach nearly £66m this year, which would be 47% higher than 2023. The company recently acquired rival Pizzeria 105, expanding its footprint into 31 new Polish cities while bringing in 76 experienced franchisees. By 2027, the firm is aiming to operate 200 Domino's stores across Poland, up from 113 last year, then eventually 500+. Ben McPoland owns shares of DP Poland. What it does: Premier Miton is a UK-based investment firm offering a range of funds and trusts, as well as a portfolio management service. By Paul Summers. The last few years have been tough for holders of shares in Premier Miton (LSE: PMI). Revenue and profit have tumbled due to volatile markets and low investor confidence, with more people throwing their money into cash accounts as interest rates have climbed. The threat of US tariffs impacting the global economy has only made things worse. Still, there's an argument that investors may now look to active managers for ways to outperform the market. Should this be the case, the current valuation of less than 11 times forecast earnings may already offer a good margin of safety. For those seeking income, there's also a monster dividend yield of 10%. To be clear, this is at risk of being cut if trading doesn't improve. So, half-year numbers, due in late May, will be worth checking out. But risk-tolerant contrarian investors may find a lot to like here. Paul Summers has no position in Premier Miton. What it does: Ultimate Products owns a number of brands it uses to sell household goods primarily in its home UK market. By Christopher Ruane. Ultimate Products (LSE: ULTP) does not strike me as a share for widows or orphans given its risk profile. This year's interim results showed a year-on-year revenue decline, sharply higher net debt and a reduced interim dividend. A business model based on manufacturing in the Far East and shipping to Europe has taken hits from higher shipping rates and longer journey times. That means more money needs to be tied up in inventory. But as the owner of brands such as Salter, the company has a strong offering for retailers and their customers. Demand in such product areas is likely to be resilient over the long term. The British love of a cuppa means that, when most consumers' kettle breaks, they immediately replace it. Despite challenges, the company was free cash flow positive in its first half and trades on a price-to-earnings ratio of just 9. Christopher Ruane does not own shares in Ultimate Products . The post 4 penny stocks to consider buying while their prices are this cheap appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. More reading 5 Stocks For Trying To Build Wealth After 50 One Top Growth Stock from the Motley Fool The Motley Fool UK has no position in any of the shares mentioned. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. Motley Fool UK 2025 Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: May 9-11
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Take some time to unwind with friends, family or yourself this weekend. Below you'll find a list of some fun events going on this weekend (May 9-11) around Mississippi. – Jackson – Friday This family-friendly event invites guests to explore the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science after hours, meet live owls up close, and take a guided night hike in search of these mysterious birds of prey where they will learn how to listen for and identify different owl species. – Clinton – Friday A community favorite, the Dinner and a Movie series selects a mix of new releases and popular classic films to share with the community free of charge. – Clinton – Friday The event will be held at Northside Elementary School. – Natchez – Friday Enjoy a free live music concert featuring Islands of Rhythm! – Ridgeland – Friday Against the backdrop of a balmy sunset, a starry night sky and the gentle waves of the Rez, MSO treats listeners young, old and in-between to a lineup of favorites from stage, screen and the top of the charts. Classics in the Courtyard – Vicksburg – Friday Enjoy live music by Keys vs Strings. The musical entertainment is provided for free. Fools – Vicksburg – Friday Enjoy this comedic fable written by Neil Simon. – Jackson – Friday, Saturday & Sunday More than 100 photorealistic dinosaurs move in to the Jackson Convention Complex this weekend. – Jackson – Friday, Saturday & Sunday This exhibition will feature over 50 handmade and machine-stitched quilts from MMA's permanent collection, including Crossroads Quilters, Gwendolyn Magee, and several collected by American photographer Roland L. Freeman on his travels. – Jackson – Friday, Saturday & Sunday Enter the wonderfully puzzling world of Mindbender Mansion, an eclectic place full of brainteasers and interactive challenges guaranteed to test the brain power and problem solving skills of even the most experienced puzzlers! Hurricane Katrina: Mississippi Remembers – Jackson – Friday, Saturday & Sunday Hurricane Katrina: Mississippi Remembers showcases photographs by Vicksburg-based artist Melody Golding, documenting the resilience of Mississippians after the storm. – Natchez – Friday, Saturday & Sunday Enjoy exciting thrill rides, kiddie rides, games with prizes galore and your favorite fair foods. – Jackson – Saturday There will be exhibits from Canadian National Railway Company, Operation Lifesavers, Central Mississippi Model Railroad Association, National Model Railroad Association and more. – Jackson – Saturday Southern coffee culture takes center stage at the inaugural Jackson Coffee Festival, a celebration of everything coffee. – Jackson – Saturday Country and rock singer and American Idol finalist Colin Stough will headline the 2025 Mississippi Makers Fest, a free music, food, and arts festival. – Jackson – Saturday Enjoy a free, family-friendly performance of Shakespeare's As You Like It, presented by the New Stage. – Jackson – Saturday Gather for a powerful evening of community dialogue honoring lives lost to HIV/AIDS and celebrating the healing role of art in our communities. – Jackson – Saturday From persimmons to peaches, from bok choy to butter beans, the Mississippi Farmers Market is the one place to go for the freshest fruits and vegetables that are grown in the state. – Clinton- Saturday While you're there, enjoy live music and treat yourself to delicious food and sweet treats from local eateries and on-site vendors. – Clinton – Saturday This series of free concerts in Lions Club Park includes a variety of performances for music lovers of all ages. – Flowood – Saturday The Flowood Family Festival returns to Liberty Park and will feature contemporary Christian music artist, Crowder, as the headliner. – Madison – Saturday Enjoy delicious treats and yummy tea, in a fairy-tale setting. Perfect for princesses, ages 2 to 11 years old. Tickets are limited. – Natchez – Saturday Natchez Festival of Music presents the moving story of the friendship between legendary singer Patsy Cline and her greatest fan, Louise Segar. – Natchez – Saturday A special event celebrating the 197th freedom anniversary of Prince Abdul Rahman Ibrahima and his wife, Isabella. – Natchez – Saturday The Miss-Lou Makers Market are local handmade artists from Mississippi and Louisiana gathered into an exclusive vendor showcase at the Natchez Bluff Gazebo. – Natchez – Saturday Every week there will be live fresh produce, baked goods, fresh dairy, and arts and crafts all from local growers and artists. – Ridgeland – Saturday The event will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There will be a musical performance by Southwind. – Ridgeland – Saturday You're invited to an enchanted evening filled with the joys of tea time and painting at the unforgettable and beautiful CW Organics Tea Room. National Train Day at the Old Depot Museum – Vicksburg – Saturday Reduced admission includes a museum tour, games, prizes, and popcorn. Second Saturday – Vicksburg – Saturday Enjoy local musicians, merchants, vendors and entertainment. – Jackson – Sunday Join the JXN Run Club for an uplifting and community-driven run every Sunday. – Ridgeland – Sunday Enjoy a Special Mother's Day Brunch Menu. – Hattiesburg – Friday Enjoy performances by a diverse lineup of talented musicians, ranging from local favorites to regional acts, covering various genres to suit all musical tastes. – Laurel – Friday Wine Down is a prefect date night or girls' night out! Pick up your cup from the LMS Entry tent, located at the corner of Central Avenue and North Magnolia Street. – Laurel – Friday Enjoy karaoke at 320 5th St. in Laurel. Run for Roses Barrel Race – Hattiesburg – Friday and Saturday The event will be held at the Forrest County Multipurpose Center. Wear western attire or Run for Roses shirt! – Hattiesburg – Friday, Saturday & Sunday The Hattiesburg Pocket Museum has a new exhibit every month, so be sure to head downtown for a small surprise! Second Saturday – Zoo Tunes – Hattiesburg – Saturday All things musical will be happening throughout the zoo as a part of the Second Saturday Celebration. Pretty Pittie Putt Pawty – Hattiesburg – Saturday Whether you're a golf pro or just here for the pawsome after-party, there's something for everyone! Sweet Home Studio 601 – Hattiesburg – Saturday Studio 601 is back again at Hattiesburg's Historic Saenger Theater for their Sweet Home Studio 601 recital. – Laurel – Saturday Explore local vendors selling handmade crafts, unique products, and delicious food. – Laurel – Saturday Step back in time at Landrum's Homestead & Village during our History Alive event. – Laurel – Saturday There will be a party on their patio featuring live music and their famous Ribeye Steak Sandwiches. – Laurel – Saturday Proceeds from this event support Kamp Kaleidoscope, a summer camp hosted by TEAAM for children and adults diagnosed with Autism and related neurodiversities. Brunch with Bertie – Hattiesburg – Saturday and Sunday Guests can enjoy a full brunch while three beautiful giraffes look on from their yard. – Hattiesburg – Sunday Cosplayers & Gaming Culture play sweet two player co-op with the arts and dance scene in Hattiesburg at this themed event! Hattiesburg Craft Beer Fest – Hattiesburg – Sunday Attendees can sample over 100 craft beers while they listen to live music. John Crist: Jokes for Humans – Hattiesburg – Sunday John Crist is one of today's fastest-rising stand-up comedians, earning more than one billion video views, more than seven million fans on social media and sold-out shows from coast to coast. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
