I had been a tremendous fan of Iris Murdoch’s books so, when the idea of making this film was suggested, I was very keen to do it.

Talking to people who knew Iris did bring some useful insights - for example, she was a wonderful observer and listener, but did not indulge in "small talk". Her manner was very precise and under-stated and she chose her words carefully.

The script by Richard Eyre and Charles Wood captures Iris’ slow decline – asking her a question, her starting to answer, and then not only not knowing what the next word is, but not remembering anything about the question either. I wish I wasn’t quite so like it! I do crosswords all the time to keep it at bay.

During filming of IRIS in Southwold, I was asked to offer my support for the ARC Appeal to provide a Support Centre for Alzheimer’s sufferers.

Tonight’s Charity Premiere is in aid of this appeal of which I am pleased to be Patron. I thank you for your support tonight and hope that you will enjoy the film as much as I enjoyed making it.

Best wishes,
Dame Judi Dench
Patron

Thanks to Mike Kennedy for sending this article, which appeared on the BBC Online on January 17, 2002.

Return