Emily Watson in Lifetime's 'Memory Keeper'
Posted by Lorrie Lynch
“I like to mix up my choices,” Emily Watson (at right) says. “I’ll do my share of nice moms and then I’ll do some crazies.” In The Memory Keeper’s Daughter, airing on Lifetime this Sunday and based on the popular same-titled novel by Kim Edwards, Watson plays the nurse who raises a Down syndrome girl. Watson thinks having a child — her daughter Juliet is 2-and-a-half — “gives me a stronger sense about playing a mom,” she says. “Although when you’re playing a prostitute, you don’t have to be one.” Watson, 41, wanted to give her daughter a Shakespearean name. “My husband (Jack Waters) and I met at the Royal Shakespeare Company, and we both studied Shakespeare,” she says. “He was born in Stratford. You can’t call someone Ophelia, so we picked Juliet. It’s also a little nod to Juliette Binoche because she’s such a genius.” How would Watson feel if Juliet becomes an actress, especially since Waters gave up acting to become a writer? “She can do whatever she wants,” Watson says, “but I’ll be a little distressed if she joins the Army.”
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In light of the premiere of "Memory Keeper's Daughter", I thought you and your readers might be interested in my new film, "Strong Love". The film highlights how much things have changed since the 1970's. It'd be wonderful if you could post this on your site.
A recent review from the Down Syndrome News:
"Some scenes will make you cry, others will make you laugh. All in all, it's a picture of life full of surprises, challenges and joy."
We have posted a short excerpt from the film of Holly and Jon practicing their wedding vows if you are interested in previewing it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLFhP5olHvE
Strong Love is the story of world-class weight lifter Jon Shapiro and his childhood sweetheart Holly James, both of whom were born with Down syndrome. This documentary follows the couple over the course of three years, starting with their decision to get married. Their challenges, their triumphs, and their complex, sometimes surprising relationships with family and friends are at the heart of this inspiring film.
Please contact us for more information.
www.bonnieburt.com
56 minutes
2007
STRONG LOVE
A film by Bonnie Burt
"Strong Love" tells the story of what happens when a world-class weight lifter and his childhood sweetheart -- both born with Down syndrome -- decide to marry.