Paul Scofield - a man for all seasons

He was considered one of Britain's greatest actors of all times, in the same league as sir Laurence Olivier, sir John Gielgud and Richard Burton. Paul Scofield, who died yesterday at age 86, received an Academy Award for his portrayal of sir Thomas More in the film 'A Man for All Seasons'. Based on Robert Bolt's acclaimed play, it's the story of Henry VIII's Lord Chancellor, who refuses to approve of the king's divorce to his first wife Catherine of Aragon to marry Anne Boleyn. It's a great play (and quite short, in only two acts) and you can read it clicking here.

Here's a scene from the movie 'A Man for All Seasons', in which sir Thomas More talks about respecting and following the Law. You can click here to read the extract of the play first (it's only slightly different from the film script).

Nicole Kidman, movie star

Nicole Kidman is one of Hollywood's biggest names today. The 40-year-old Australian actress has starred in many different types of films, from light comedies like Bewitched to thrillers (The Others) and critically acclaimed productions such as Cold Mountain and The Hours, which gave Nicole her first Academy Award. But audiences probably remember her best in Baz Luhrman's musical Moulin Rouge, where she plays the beautiful courtesan Satine and shows that she can also sing.

Learn more about Nicole Kidman listening to this recording (good for pre-intermediate students!). There are also some comprehension questions to help you, and an accompanying audio script.

Click here to watch a clip of Nicole and Robbie Williams' duet version of Something Stupid, originally recorded by Frank and Nancy Sinatra.