This is what I learned about Season Four of “Downton Abbey” from director Simon Curtis, who’s married in real life to Lady Cora, aka Elizabeth McGovern: absolutely nothing. Simon, whose credits include last year’s hit, “My Week With Marilyn,” is in town polishing up details of his next film, “The Chaperone.” Simon says: “I never read the scripts and I don’t ask what’s going on. It’s much easier that way.” He did say the show is three days into production on Season Four, which is why McGovern couldn’t join him on this trip.
Curtis was just one of dozens of showbiz Brits who showed up for the annual soiree at the home of the very charming British Consul General Barbara Hay. This is always a swell Oscar week event. It’s so popular that New York character Radio Man, who hangs out at the front of red carpets, rode his bike all the way from his Santa Monica motel just to get the gift bag!
“Les Miserables” director Tom Hooper brought his parents, who just arrived from London.
And here’s a clue about Sunday’s “James Bond” anniversary tribute: George Lazenby, onetime 007 from “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” was present and enjoying PIMM’s special Bond martinis. He may be the only Bond in the Dolby Theater tomorrow.
Also: I ran into Jared Harris, so good in “Lincoln.” We’re still smarting from his suicide on “Mad Men” last season. Lane Pryce was a great character! But Jared is very very busy with lots of films shot and more to come.
Plus: “Les Miz” producer Cameron Mackintosh, beaming, going back and forth from Oscar rehearsals, excited about his cast performing what should be a show-stopping medley on the show Sunday. Also from “Les Miz”: the Oscar nominated costume designer and production designer.
And lots and lots of PIMMs. That’s heavy on the Mmmmmm’s.
