1

I'm with you Alex, sounds gay to me too. I had to change the channel when I saw my girlfriend watching Ever After on E! the other night, kinda the same thingish.

mark on Oct 30, 2008

2

This is a truely fantastic book. The romance is good, but the action and historical aspects are very well-done, and the story is exciting and fast-pased.

I'm not sure how much this would appeal to men, as the books were always presented as romances, but I know of very few other authors that have such a wide and varied readership. This is the Harry Potter of romance series, and it's a wonderful, if lengthly, read. Especially if you're going to invest in the entire series.

But I know women that have followed it since it's beginning, more than 17 years ago. So that's got to tell you something.

RStewie on Oct 30, 2008

3

I have read every, EVERY book in this series. It's amazing and I've been waiting for years for it to be adapted into a film. The story I believe could appeal to both genders, if written correctly. While the romance between Claire and Jamie is the focal point of the story, there's a lot of action, wars (the Battle of Culloden in particular…when Scotland tries to break free from England), and it really beautifully describes what Scotland was like in the 1700's. If directed well, I believe this movie could be huge. It could be a huge escapism movie.

And add in the mysticsm aspect of the story (how Claire mysteriously falls back in time 200 yrs after finding a circle of stones while walking through a Scottish forest in the 1940's) and it'll hook a lot of people. People love magic in movies right now. The story gets really good as the books progress, especially when Claire leaves, then returns back in time 20 yrs later (man I cried when they reunited)….and then they go to America and became patriots in the Independence War.

I'm just trying to figure out who'd they cast as Claire and Jamie. Claire is British and has naturally curly hair, and is very confident. Jamie is younger (late teens in "Outlander" at least, when it starts), has longish red hair (obviously), Scottish (obviously), so they'd need an actor who could do a believable Scottish accent. He has to be tall and really buff too. Maybe Gerard Butler or James McAvoy as Jamie?

*shrug*

tiffster on Oct 30, 2008

4

Ohhhh I am very excited, but alas I am also a female. I read these books when my Mom was done with them, since then we have discussed how this would make a great film and who could portray the main characters. There weren't many choices at the time for good actors but now, now the door has been opened for some great potential. It will be exciting to see what the producers come up with and how they decide to write the screenplay.
I think in the end men and women will both be able to enjoy this movie. Yeah there is love and some hot sex (men can dig that can't they?) and the fights are all bloody as hell!!! I would say it could very well be like Braveheart - there was love and stuff in that wasn't there?
Oh and BTW - This is in no way like Ever After!

Breebaby on Oct 30, 2008

5

the main man in the movie is named Jamie? Is the bad guy named Francis?

Richard on Oct 30, 2008

6

They're not your typical bodice-ripping Harlequin romance novels. There's blood, witch trials, soirees with French society, voodoo rituals…they are fantastic books and I am re-reading the series now for the umpteenth time. I also got my sisters-in-law hooked…they're just as excited as I am about this. However, $10-40 million is not a lot of money to make a movie. Quite frankly, I'd rather see this as a 12-hour mini-series on HBO, where they can really delve into the story.

ivylass on Oct 30, 2008

7

First, its been optioned before, as a TV mini-series but the option expired. If this time it sticks as a feature film, how it is adapted is the real clincher as a tremendous amount of story would have to be cut to fit a movie-length script, and production costs would be high to accommodate locations, costumes, etc. But, a studio could have a lot to gain by turning a beloved book with a built in huge fan base into a good movie adaptation. (Twilight anyone?)

As to the guy/girl appeal - love how you gents jump to conclusions with little to no info. The story is so rich that it would appeal to all audiences. Yes, there is romance as the two main characters meet and fall in love - but a "romance" in the strict genre-sense it is not. The history surrounding the Scottish clans, the politically charged and divided environment over who is the rightful king (think Braveheart), the fight scenes with Scots and claymores, a great English Red Coat villain, lots of wit and humor, folklore, time travel, etc. it covers it all. I'm surprised the author hasn't mentioned anything on her website.

Elaine on Oct 30, 2008

8

Hey men, read it before you bash it. You just might be surprised: hunting, boating, fighting, science, horses, pirates, politics, women, Indians, wars, gambling, history, camping; one of those things should grab your interest, right?

I have read this series many times and will continue to do so. Many of my friends have also read the series. We are waiting for the next two books to come out. Write Diana, write!

I would love, love, love, to see a movie made from this series. There is a ready-made audience and I'm sure a well made movie will do very well. I wonder if they should consider a movie per book. I can't imagine how the entire series could be compressed into just one movie and not diminish the detailed writing. If you make the movie, take your time, spend the money, preserve the story, and don't botch it!

Beth on Nov 4, 2008

9

I would agree with everything people have previously said. It is a wonderful series, and i too say, take your time, spend the money and do it well. There is a new actor I have seen recently on T.V's Journeyman, and Greys anatomy. His name is Kevin McKidd. I would like to say he would make a really good Jamie.

jackie on Nov 4, 2008

10

I am very excited and a little apprehensive if they are actually going to make this story into a movie. The books are phenomenal and I'd hate to have my love for this story crushed to a thousand pieces by a crappy director. I've read the series 3 times. Yeah. I love it and Gabaldon is one of my most favorite authors.

Jennifer on Nov 4, 2008

11

I am a Male and I love this series. It was my mother who told me to give a try years ago and I got hooked. I would call the "Romance Novel" aspect to be very, very minor. There is so much more to this series than that.

I just hope the movies can do the series justice. This is one series I've always wanted to see made into a movie. The only one I might want more would be The Dark Tower series…but Outlander could be great.

As a matter of pure coincidence, I just started listening to Outlander on Audiobook this week and now I find this news. I had never read past the 4th book, so I am doing this and am anxious to get to Parts 5 and 6 which will be new to me. Enjoying them again, in audiobook so I can do it at work, and now news of the movie. I sure hope it happens!

Adam on Nov 5, 2008

12

Okay first off I would like to say that this series of stories is a god send, it got me hooked into looking at my own Scottish heritage and loving it all the more. I would like to point out to all the guys and gals that happen to think this amazing woman's work is just some silly paperback romance novel, and just mention she spent years doing research on a culture she had no idea about, her books are classified under historical fiction, because that's what they resolve around, the historical aspects of 18th century Scotland during the Second Rising of the Stuarts all the way to the happenings of the American Revolution. They do happen to have a thread of romance in them, because just as it was about history, it is also about the people who lived then, and how they lived, how they survived in those times. It's a story a about a marriage up close and personal. Most of all though, it's a story about life.

Laurel on Nov 6, 2008

13

I have read the entire series every summer for years.
My vision of Claire is Kate Beckinsale and Alexander Skarsgard as Jamie.
Ms Gabaldon truly is an amazing author, and I extremely excited about a movie.

Connie Vertucci on Nov 6, 2008

14

You have to read the books before you term them "romance" books. They are more time travel. If you like books with time travel and Scotland in the 1700s you will love these books. They are on the top ten books I have ever read.

dave on Nov 6, 2008

15

Alex …I respect your opinion on the fact that your not interested in these books or the story in general but not everyone has a taste for real life tv, or crap that most tv companies try to force down your throats…. sometimes people tend to enjoy escaping to the land of books and if you have actually read them all and understand the story then you will see like many people who have read and enjoyed the series that is is a very good story and you never know the characters might actually grow on you!… dont just bother reading the back flap or inside cover spend some time and enjoy them for what they are and that is a well written story! As far as I'm concerned they have something in them for everyone! And as for making them into a movie, I will say this that even though I'm sure it will be a great movie everyone has to remember one thing that alot of the book will be cut from it to allow for the 2 and a half hour time frame it will only have to tell the story and I have read these books quite a number of times and as much as I love them I dont mind them being cut a bit so that we can atleast get to see these great characters on the big screen!

I say go for it!

Ness Burns on Nov 7, 2008

16

I understand how men and some women can be let out by the fact that there may be a story of love in a book but think about how your life moves around relationships. Jamie and Claire have a story that I beleive the whole world should know. The Outlander series are the most captivating and exciting books I have ever read. I agree that the story has so much detail that it would be impossible to fit into one film. I say that the first book titled "Outlander" should be completed in one movie and the rest of the books could follow inn seperate films. Read the first book and make the movie, the time and money to make it would be very rewarding to everyone in the long run.

Susan on Nov 8, 2008

17

if you liked braveheart,the patriot, lord of the rings, you would like these books made into movies

neva on Nov 9, 2008

18

I must say that as a college professor, the Outlander series is one of the best researched I have read in a very long time. Each text is worthy of a dissertation.
Ms. Gabaldon has captured the times and the struggle to maintain identity in a time when the only identity of a woman is as the property of man. Claire and Jamie have captured my heart and I have shared their story with my students as examples of history and the struggles therein.

Besides as a woman, I find this series of books a fantastic read. I just finished reading Ken Follets two books on catherdal building in the 12th century. Ms. Gabaldons books have so much more detail and believablity than ever. What a change in lief to go back to a time that has no toilet paper!

Christine on Nov 9, 2008

19

I have read Every book in this series and am very much anticipating the upcoming release of the 7th book - An Echo of Bones. I believe that Outlander as a movie would hold something for everyone as do the books themselves. Theres action, violence, mystery, historical fact, love, sex, humor…you get the idea. I just hope that the movie can do the book justice.

Devon on Nov 9, 2008

20

I was in a reading lull at the time I found the Outlander series. I had probably 100 books at home I hadn't read but nothing seemed to interest me. I went to the book store and a lady(another customer) came up to me and ask me if I was looking for a good book to read. She very hightly recommented Outlander to me. I bought it and started reading it that night. It was so good that I went back the next day and bought the other two books in the series. I have never read a book that held my interest the way that this series of books has done. They made me more interested in my Scottish heritage, taught me great history of Scotland, how people lived during those times and told me a great love story. Yes, most man think the it is nothing but another romance novel and it is BUT it is so much more that words can not properly describe. They have to be read to be appreciated. I got my very manly husband and son to read them and they both enjoyed it. They both said it wasn't what they had thought it would be. I agree with what some other people have said about making it into a series of movies instead of trying to put it all into one film. I just don't see how they could do it without taking away from the books. There is so much meat in these books. I wouldn't want to see it destroyed. With that said I still can't wait to see it on the big screen or even better to see A&E or HBO make a mini series out of the whole series. Maybe if Outlander is a hit they will make the other books into movies like they did the LOR's books. If you haven't read it go to the book store and get yourself a copy. If you can't find one then go to Ladies of Lollybrock site and tell them you want to read it and can't find a copy. Everyone who loves the books always has two or three copies of each book and would glad to send you a copy.

Norma on Nov 9, 2008

21

I have read the books and they are my favorite books. I have to admit that while I am a female, I absolutely hate anything too mushy and corny and these books are none of those things. These books are so full of graphic details sometimes I cannot believe it. I love Diana Gabaldon and how gutsy she is to put in all the gory details. These books are so intense, and I agree with everyone else, they have to make the movies book by book. I also agree with the person that said that the one guy from Greys Anatomy would be a good character for Jamie. The first episode he was on there I just thought "that's Jamie".

Cailin on Nov 11, 2008

22

I put off reading these books for years because I, like you, was under the impression that they were some sort of trashy, bodice-ripping romances. They really aren't!
Sure, the first book in the series involves the two main characters meeting and falling in love, but Jamie and Claire's story involves so much more than that. Among other things: witchcraft, time-travel, history, war, adventure, sadomasochism and mystery. The second two books in the series read more like adventure novels, and the last three are more historical fiction than anything else.
I really hope the Outlander books are made into a series of films much like the Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter novels were. I don't really see any other way to do the books justice. It seems like that's what they are implying when they use the word 'franchise'. I also like that Randall Wallace is writing the screenplay. It seems like he has a long history of writing really good historical based, action epics. If done right, this movie could be Braveheart, meets Pirates of the Caribbean, meets Back to the Future meets the Notebook. It really has something for everyone.

Lauren on Nov 14, 2008

23

Oh…how wrong some of these guys are. My breakdown of this…take all the girl characters from Greys Anatomy (Meredith, Callie, Izzy, etc) with their surgical/medical knowledge, sass, sex apeal, and dynamics and minus their girlie gossipy qualities and throw them back 200 years to meet up with a character as strong, passionate, and appealing as William Wallace from Braveheart(Mel Gibson), then send them through movies as good as Braveheart, Pirates of the Carribean, Vanity Fair, The Last of the Mohicans, and the Patriot. They are strong, smart characters and I would highly recommend that you read the books. they are so elaborate in how well the scenes are painted that to compare it to watching Ever After is silly.

alicia on Nov 16, 2008

24

I have read every novel in this series and I think it has elements of interest for everyone. Time travel for sci-fi fans, political intrigue, mystery, highlander history, adventure and comedic romance. The romance is one of the most appealing aspects for many women, but most of the first novel is really about the pitfalls of time travel and about the political climate leading up to Culloden in Scotland. If you can call Braveheart a silly romance, then by all means Outlander should be classified as such also.

Jane on Nov 17, 2008

25

I just started reading Ooutlander. I'm halfway though the first book but I haven't read the rest of them yet but all I needed to read was half of the first book and I'm stuck on it. I love the relationship they have together, its so sweet! I obviously can't wait to see the movie but when it comes to discussing who should play Jamie….Gerard Butler….no. Not only is he a playboy he isnt that attractive. James McAvoy?……REALLY A BIG NO! You want a guy that is attrative charming built, everything that Jamie stands for. If only Chris Evans or Hugh Jackman could pass for a Scottish highlander……. or maybe Ian Somerhalder? Either way i am really looking forward to this movie!

Amanda on Nov 18, 2008

26

I can't convince you, but I'm 100% sure that reading Outlander would.
It's a beautifully written novel. I found the first 2 chapters to be a bit tedious but they're actually very crucial to the plot towards the end of the novel and for the other books in the series.
There is a lot of humor, history and adventure to accompany the romance.
Diana Gabaldon is notorious for is writing literature that appeals to both genders.
The one thing that may put people off from this book is the description on the back… it makes it come off as being a chick lit romance, but it is SO much more.
See for yourself.

My only worry is that there is SO much detail and content to the story and I'm afraid that crucial parts will be taken out or changed to fit "Hollywood Criteria". This series is MY FAVORITE. I've reread the books dozens of times and have specific picture of it in my head, so I hope they don't spare a cent or detail!

As for Ever After, yes it was movie that was targeted for women of all ages and class (hence it's fairytale connection and choice for leading actress–easily appealing). It was a good movie, but it does not come close to being as compelling or dramatic as Outlander.

Rachel on Nov 18, 2008

27

A early love scene, Jamie tells Claire that when meeting a new horse you are going to break you put it's nose in your arm pit, and that's what she should have done with him. Stuck his head between her legs so he wouldn't have been so skittish.

Got a laugh from my husband who enjoys listening to the books although he said he thought it was gay to being with.

Maybe you should be an audible listener and try a book from this series.

Heather on Nov 19, 2008

28

Can a screen play be devised from a narrative that seduces the soul? Gabaldon is a master at bringing you into her world. I became Clair Frasier for about 2 years…prolonging the completion of the 6 books in her Outlander Series. These are multi-sensual reads…you see, you hear, you smell, you taste…along with an historical chronology of 18th century Scotland and America. Beautifully enticing.

Sharon Havens on Nov 19, 2008

29

I worked in the book retail industry for several years and men who were fans of the series would complain very often about the Gabaldon books being shelved in the romance section. Yes, there are many manly men who are into this story, which truly is fantasy. As the supervisor of the fiction area of my store, I admittedly used to sneak some things into sections where I felt they really belonged.

What a lot of people don't realize is that the romance genre is so broad that there are a multitude of books under that category that actually offer much much more. As an avid reader of the genre, I will not read any story that is only about a romantic relationship. For me, there always has to be more to the story. The Outlander series offers everything thing for everyone, regardless of gender. These books are dynamic pieces of literature written in a riveting style that captures your mind and imagination to bring you right there with the characters. I feel like Clair and Jamie are people I know.

That being said, I believe that a decent movie can be produced, but not without a loss. They can never fit everything into the movie so there's always some part of the story that will be lost. Whenever a new Harry Potter movie comes out I always wonder what storyline(s) from the book will get left out. Giving half the story to viewers who didn't read the book robs them of the full experience. I hope they do this one justice.

Pamela on Nov 19, 2008

30

I am so excited about Outlander becoming a movie! I read the first book just over 10 years ago, and I have been beyond hooked ever since. In fact, I have a hard time reading any other book because I love Diana Gabaldon's writing and detail. Yeah, the story does surround the relationship of Jamie and Claire, but that by no means the only aspect! There are so many different and entertaining characters throughout the entire series, and the historical detail is amazing! There are wars, betrayal, human struggle, hunting, Kings and Princes, clans, religion, murder, mystery, and the list could go on and on for the reasons why men might like it. And there is also an amazing love story in the middle of it all. I will definitely be there opening night, and you better believe my husband will be there with me whether he wants to or not!

Virginia on Nov 21, 2008

31

I thought men wanted more sex and action in their lives! Well, in the Outlander series there is plenty of both. Those happily addicted to this series are so for a reason: Gabaldon's storytelling. You grow to care about the characters and through the books also come across historically significant people and situations - that's made the whole series incredibly fascinating to me -
The difficulty will come in the casting. The fans of this series have their favorites - just do a search on Ladies of Lallybroch and read around in there, you'll see just how passionate the fans are about who they wish could play Jamie and Claire and so on and so forth. My advice to Randall Wallace: Best stay true to the book, mate, or you'll be faced with the torture of an irate fanbase who won't stay quiet about parts left out considered intregal to the story.
The books are well worth a read - there's generally a little something for everyone. Yet still I wonder how men can use the excuse, "there's too much sex in those books!!!" as an excuse to not read them…just goes against everything we wenches had thought we knew about them. Ironic.

Shonna Gariepy on Nov 21, 2008

32

That's exciting news. There's no convincing anyone to read a 700 page anything, let alone five of them. But I can tell you that the characters will stay with you long after you put it down. There's Father Fogden, the pot-smoking channeler of Georgia O'Keefe's spirit; Ermenegilda's mother, who smiles sweetly while cursing like a sailor under her breath; Li Tien Cho, whose obsession with bound feet gets him accused of murder; Colum Mackenzie, whose strategies would make Macchiavelli blanch; Mother Hildegarde, a brilliant horse-faced musician who runs the largest hospital in France, accompanied by a dog who diagnoses maladies faster than Dr. House; Louis Quatorze, who accords guests great honor by allowing them to attend his morning ablutions–the most honored guest gets to wipe his backside; etc.. Then there are the characters who are chasing Claire through time, like the beautiful sociopathic serial murderess and the neanderthal shaman. Not to mention Claire and Jamie themselves, complex people with detailed histories, diverse talents, and strong drives, who, perhaps by force of their leadership qualities, find themselves in the middle of decisive battles. Calling this series merely a romance is like calling Dr. Who merely a romance. And the Dr. Who here is more like James (Frazier) Bond. If you don't read it, it's your loss.

Jen on Nov 22, 2008

33

The books are not classified as 'Romance', and if you read the books you will realize that they shouldn't be. There is a romantic element, due to the story being a long chronicle of a couple in love, but otherwise, historical fiction, science fiction, adventure, are all equal elements of the story as well.

The books are popular world-wide, and certainly not just women love them. It a series of books that is unique and begging to be made into a movie! It's about time. No one should need to convince you. You'll eat your words if you just read the books!

Alicia on Nov 24, 2008

34

commenting on number 5: your name is Richard. I think the name Jamie is a lot better than the name Dick

Christa on Nov 24, 2008

35

Are you all kidding? this series is about the most manly man any author ever created! women love this series because this male is all the things real men should be! And could be. This a history book with real heroes, believable behaviors, and high adventure. Gabaldon holds back nothing in her development of her characters, and her command of detail is amazing. I finish each book with deep regret, hoping it won't be too long before there is a new one. While waiting, I start over again. Each builds on the last, and one has to be impressed at the richness of historical detail woven into a gripping tale that evokes every possible emotion. Much in my household is neglected while I'm reading Gabaldon. Claire's skills, personality, good humor and compassionate application of her medical skills makes one wish more of her existed in the real world. Gabaldon's brilliant ability to put the reader into the story is why these books are so engaging. She is a gifted story teller. I can't imagine what kind of idiot attempts an opinion without so much as reading a single page, so of course, your opinion, and your attitude is soundly discounted. I am, however, less than charmed by the Lord John Series. Nonstop Lord John does not hold my attention. Hurry up, Gabaldon; I'm missing all my fave characters. AND YOU: read the books. You're missing a wonderful literary coup.

Barb on Nov 25, 2008

36

Coming from a person who read each of those books at least 3 times, yes I like to read, these books are not just romances. Keep in mind though, Pearl Harbor, Australia, Titanic, Cold Mountain, and Braveheart, all epic movies, have romance as a basis, but not the sole characteristic of the book. There is so much adventure and history in all of the novels. I am anxious to see if a movie will actually do the books justice. Diana Gabaldon is definitely a gifted story teller…I mean I read the books numerous times, I know a lot of men who have read them, and other females who have also read these novels many times. I can't wait to see if this will make this to theatres.

Kristie on Nov 29, 2008

37

Though I love love this series, I am one of the few that believe it can not be made into a movie. I have yet to see a novel based movie that does justice to the book and that would be a bitter disappointment.

Juanita on Dec 1, 2008

38

i started reading the outlander novels when i was 17 (i'm 34 now) as you can imagine they left a big impact on me. Especially the character jamie fraser . oh my god!!!! did ms gabaldon get his character spot on, if only there were men in the world like him.Anyway as a true outlander fan i dont care what the movie is like i just want to see the characters on the big screen coming to life.
Everybody has their ideal actors/actresses for the main parts but i see Gerard Butler as Jamie, Kate Beckinsale/Rachel Weisz as Claire, and just maybe Jude Law/Jason Issacs as Frank/Jonathon Randall.
For me the characters should remain true to the story and nobody has a Scottish gruff voice like Gerard or looks fierce as a highlander in wig, kilt, plaid and broadsword and fortunately Rachel Weisz is Oxford born with the right accent, those particular people wouldn't have to work on the accents for the part only have to get into character.
Whatever happens in regards to the movie be it a blockbuster or flop i promise when and if its on D.V.D i'm gonna be stocking up and before that make sure i have my seat picked out at the cinema til the film is finished its showing.

andrinna on Dec 2, 2008

39

I forgot to mention the fact that I'm Scottish myself, and makes me want to visit the highlands even more now. so a trip to Inverness beckons i think!!! The landscape in the highlands is beautiful and i urge people to visit as its so full of history.



The books read like Pride and Prejudice,Braveheart and have so much sex, witchcraft,swordfights , male pride, time travel and war-like violence everybodies imagination is different but boy does it give your brain a workout and i found myself reading the books within 2 or 3 days i couldn't put them down.Even now i read them without fail each year.

andrinna on Dec 2, 2008

40

These are the best books I have ever read & I've read them 3 or 4 times each! The characters stay with you, you truly live them & the story. I totally agree with Andrinna, Jason Issacs is the perfect Frank/Jack Randall. I can also see Kevin McKidd as Jamie (I thought no one would ever fit for that one).

corrie on Dec 3, 2008

41

Why try to "convince" Alex about the quality and superb sagas of this series? Let him watch NFL, Wrestling or whatever "real men" do. He will be the loser if he skips this because of a mindset that it is "gay"…although there is a surprise deep in one of the books that may appeal to him if that's what he's into. But, I would wager Alex would actually appreciate the whole series if he is at all interested in stories that deal with war, history,hunting,ancestral lineage, family heritage, mystery, strife, and yeah, romance mixed with blood and guts to suit the "manliest man". To pass over Ms. Gabaldon's contribution to literature would be a loss indeed. I for one will be first in line to buy the DVD of the movie as well as any others that are made from this wonderful series. Will also be pre-ordering her highly anticipated newest literary offering that continues this wonderful adventure.

Sally on Dec 3, 2008

42

I was really hoping that the producers of The Tudors on Showtime would pick up Outlander as a series. I really think that that is what it would take to do these books justice. But still I am extremely excited to see Claire and Jamie come to life on the big screen. I totally understand why so many have said that they have read the series multiple times. Diana brings them into your life in such a way you can't possibly finnish the story and just leave them behind.

venus on Dec 3, 2008

43

I came across Outlander at a discount book store. I was looking for a 'beach' book as I was going to Bali for a vacation so I picked it up. I had no expectations as it had been a long time since I read anything 'meaty' and captivating. But once I read it, I was delightfully surprised by the fluidity and balance of Diana's writing. In short, I'd found a gem of a book. I enjoyed my Bali vacation but half the time I was secretly wishing to get pockets of time to finish the book. I'm on the hunt for the next book!

Irene on Dec 4, 2008

44

First of all, the books were NOT presented as romances, they were presented as historical fiction, just as Diana Gabaldon herself has said in many interviews. Secondly, I disagree completely that only women would find it interesting. There is, of course, romantic and emotional scenes in the book, however I don't think they overpower the exciting plot and the fascinating historical background (which can easily be appreciated by men). If nothing else, people should be impressed with her patience and ability to spend so much time on her research and writing. She makes sure to produce intelligent, witty, heartfelt, honest, gripping, and sometimes even disturbing portrayals of characters that are fully capable of being real people. She allows the readers to believe in the possibility that human beings can be so strongly connected that they can bend the rules of time to be with each other. (I am referring to both the relationship between Jamie and Claire and also between Brianna and Claire.) I commend her beautiful and eloquent love scenes, and I applaud her gruesome and intricate battle scenes. It is very easy to imagine the world she writes about and although it gives me some pause to think of a bunch of Hollywood jerks ruining my favorite book of all time (only tied with Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind), I wouldn't mind seeing a screen adaptation. For people that are skeptical, give the book a chance. If you aren't a big reader, I would suggest the audio tapes. The actors that record the voices for the books are very good and its nice to hear a story from someone who enjoys telling one. To move on, as far as those of you who think it would be better as a miniseries, ask yourself a question……..Who in the hell do you know that watches miniseries on tv? Besides maybe your grandmother, whose favorite shows are Murder She Wrote and Days of Our Lives. It would be able to cover more of the book's events, but the potential for greatness lacks severely when you take away any semblance of production value. Nicholas Sparks has had a very successful run with both his books and the movies adapted from them, so why can't we have it all with the Outlander series too? So if you haven't read the books, read them. Make sure you read them in the right order too, otherwise you will be severely confused. If you have read them and don't like them or think they are "gay" (which, by the way, is a really intelligent response to anything…….and if you don't get my sarcasm then you definitely shouldn't read the books…..if you can read at all), then I believe that you are probably severely confused about a lot things. In the words of Lamar Burton, "you don't have to take my word for it". Read the book, you won't be sorry.

Jessica on Dec 4, 2008

45

Are you kidding me? I was forced to read this by a friend. Having said that, she will be my dear friend for life if only for making me read it. What a JOY. Yes, it has romance but it's not air-head fluff!! It is a deeply historical novel that made me feel like I was part of the time period. It sparked my imagination, made me laugh out loud and made me cry. And yes, I admit to having read the entire series (and they are massive novels) three times!! I have passed them on and have not had ONE person say they didn't love them. Now the kicker…I had my 24 year old son (whose name is Alex, by the way), read the first book, and he truly loved the story. Anyone who knows the portrayal of men of this book will rightly say he will make some woman a WONDERFUL husband some day!!

Cindy on Dec 4, 2008

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Upon reading all the positive reviews of these wonderful books, I hope Alex has the courage to read the books (or even just one) and then report back to us. On the subject of screen adaptation of these wonderful works, I really doubt Hollyweird can do them justice. Perhaps it is best to keep the pictures we have in our hearts and minds of these timeless personalities forever safe there, and not destroyed by today's actors. Most screen adaptations have proved to be disasters or Milquetoast,at best. Sadly. That said, I will still be first in line to see what they have to offer. If the producers allow Diana to critique and maintain authenticity,then all should be well.

Sally on Dec 4, 2008

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I have to say that I believe a miniseries would be great for these books. If it was written well and backed with the proper funding, (see Band of Brothers) it could be done wonderfully and the story would not get mutated for commerial appeal. Not that I dont think that the story has commercial appeal but I would love to enjoy the entire journey and that is extremely unlikely to happen on the big screen. My fear would be that the story would be written and marketed solely as a romance movie. My favorite thing about these books is that the romance was a part of the story but not everything. The action, intrigue and personal struggle of many of the characters is what drove me to continue reading. I like escapism in some of my reading, sci-fi, fantasy, but only one romance novelist's books have ever held my interest because they are often too "fluffy" (no offence to those who do enjoy them!)I dont think of Diana Gabaldon's books as "romance" anymore than I think of Braveheart as a "romance" movie, that too had a central love interest intregal to the plot but not the meat of the piece. I think the miniseries format has the luxury of length to carry the whole story and the flexibilty to do it right. Whereas a feature length film has two hours, three if they are willing to push their audience. Can three hours do Claire and Jaimie's epic journey justice? I dont believe so. I, of course, would go to see anything that attemps to bring these characters to the screen, big or small, but my hope remains with an extremely well funded miniseries which stays true to these wonderful beloved characters.

Amanda on Dec 4, 2008

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I too am reading the Outlander series for the umteenth time. These are my favorite books ever. I love the historcal aspect and you cant help but fall in love with Jamie and Claire but I almost find them TOO gory and graphic in parts. (I have a weak stomache) I have to repeat the comparison to 'Brveheart'.
That being said I dont think they should be made into a movie. I cant see how they could possibly come close to being as good as the books. I'm afraid, as great fans of these books, we would be sadly disapointed. Who could possibly play Jamie? The movie would be like 10 hrs long just for Outlander. It would be interesting, but not nearly as good.

Catherine on Dec 7, 2008

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Hello,
I just found out that this movie is really going to happen and I have to agree with Amanda (Dec 4, 2008) I even tried to mention it to the BBC or HBO.. It MUST be a ONGOING MINISERIES. I've read these books at least umpteen million times. Shared them with a husband that swore he would never read them. Who is now listening to breath of snow and ashes on unabridged CD's. A million co-workers, and my daughter who is dislexic and has read OUTLANDER. Reading for her is Hard. I buy her books used at any yard sale, thrift store where-ever. I give them away to potential fans, who read them and return the well worn book looking for the next. I believe a dozen new fans have come from passing her books around.
This is NOT just romance, it's a story of family, friendship, heritage, love, honour, trust, betrayal. It's about history, It's about love, hate, fear, it has it all. You couldn't possibly put OUTLANDER into a 2 hour movie or even a mini series.. I never watched Band of Brothers But wasn't it like a MAXI Mini Series. The Outlander would do for a start maybe its about 40 hours of unabridged reading. I like to think if they can do Lord of the Rings. They can do these books. They have to be made as real as possible first. In movies you can make people bigger or smaller. But it has to be real… She has put a lot of scenery into it. So much discription. I think this Randall Wallace needs to do ALL the books. It is the only way to do Outlander JUSTICE! I hope he gets this. if any one out there knows how to email this gentlemen please email me at meoutlander@yahoo.com

judy jones on Dec 7, 2008

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Love the books since 1997 and have waited with baited breath for each book to come. I agree all the books would make the best movies (long ones of course, but wonderful if you get the right people for the characters especially of Jamie, Claire,Bree and husband. I have been waiting forever for her next book set for release in 2009, please hurry. Thanks for taking me away for hours at a time, and then re-reading.

Anne Cornell on Dec 8, 2008

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please get the latest book out asap!! thanks

Anne Cornell on Dec 8, 2008

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I love Diana's books, I have read them all, and all the excerpts of "An echo in the bone" I'm dying to see what Braveheart creator can do to outlander, I agree that the movie must be one book per movie or a miniseries for TV, like the tudors.

On casting sugestions, for young jamie i like Robert Pattinson (he has the eyes, the height and the accent, and the hair too) or Chris Evans, who has the looks. For young claire I'd like Juno Actress Elle page or Leighton Meester or Anne hathaway. keep in mind outlander has a 20 year separation between outlander and dragonfly in amber. for older jamie Gerard Butler does great, or Eric Dane, or daniel craig.

For older Claire, kate Beckinsale (if she gains 20 pounds) she's too skinny to play Claire after Brianna's birth. I'd love to see Nathalie dormer as well, she did great in a corsage.

for Brianna I like Laura prepon, and for Roger Mac, Mark Ruffalo, the most difficult casting would be Randall, I'd say Batman's Christian Bale, he's hot and he can double play Frank and Jack, and he looks like he can handle been mean and gay. or Jonathan Rhys Meyers. he's a great actor and Irish, or maybe he could be Collum, either way, the casting is hard.

By the way, the complexity of the book needs a strong script writer, outlander it's not pg13 by any means. It has to be R or not be at all.

Good luck to mr Wallace, he has one big fandom on his heels.

victoria segovia on Dec 8, 2008

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This is what Diana Gabaldon says about the option…it will two to two and a half hours long if it is ever made and she has NOTHING to do with it, and I quote:

"P.S. Well, I can also tell you that a) yes, Gerard Butler is a fine-looking specimen of Scottish manhood, even if he is a Lowlander, but b) I think he might have difficulty playing a 22-year-old virgin; c) Keira Knightley would probably make an excellent Claire (she has the accent and the capacity for sarcasm), if she gained forty pounds, but d) James McAvoy is probably a wonderful actor, but he’s only 5’7”, for heaven’s sake." From Diana Gabaldon's website.

Juanita on Dec 9, 2008

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I'm an avid reader, I am 38 years old and have read hundreds of books. The Outlander series is, hands-down, my all time favorite. The only other book I have ever read that came anywhere close, is Kristen Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset. Diana has away of telling stories that makes you feel like you are there. I feel like I actually KNOW Claire and Jamie Fraser. I think Outlander will make an excellent movie, and I think that if any one can write the screen play and give it justice, it can only be Randall Wallace.

My heart soared when I first heard that it could possibly be made into a movie. I have no doubts that it will be epic.

I think Keira Knightly would be a fine Claire, but finding someone to be Jamie is going to be a fierce challenge. He is so big, and gruff, and handsome, and RED!

I look forward with giddiness to seeing it.


Rachel Smith

Rachel Smith on Dec 10, 2008

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keira knightley as claire NO!!!!!!!
I think we need unknowns to lay the roles as we will then be able to belive they are claire and jamie easier.
Men should read the books if only as a lesson on what women really want and find attractive in a man as Jamie fraser is the epitomy of everything i like!!
I have only seen one book made in to a film that was not a disapointment and that was Misery by Stephen King, so i can be done!!
I have been fascinated by the history in the books and ashamed to be english after reading about the way they treated the scottish.
The way the books are written are factual, sensitive, erotic, sensual, graphic, enthralling and compulsive reading. Diana Gabaldon is a fantastic writer and if the film is made please do it justice as it is pointless making it without making the most of it.

nichola ward on Dec 10, 2008

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Okay, so I do agree there, that the roles should be played by new and unknown artists. Good point, I have absolutely no qualms with that.
I also agree that men should read these books. I have infact read certain parts of each of these books to my husband at night. I also discuss them with him. Often.
Nobody writes like Diana, but I've been looking.
Have you read "Through A Glass Darkly" by Karleen Koen yet? It's another historical fact based fiction. Set in England and france 1715-1721. Good read. I'm just starting the sequel "Now Face to Face"
Also try "Kristen Lavransdatter" by Sigrid Undset. One of my all time favorites. It's also over a thousand pages, and worth every minute of it.

Rachel Smith on Dec 10, 2008

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Okay so yeah all us gals are in love w/Jamie Fraser; and this is the only series of books that I have read over and over and over and well you get the picture. I know that guys may not want to see this because of the romance factor, but there is sooo much more to it.

There's the conflict between the English and the Scots, there's the internal conflict that Claire has because she knows the future but she also has another husband that she loves waiting for her two hundred years in the future so does she stay and help these people or return to Frank. There's war, and witch trials, politics, raids, coruption, assination plots, plagues and two hundred year old surgical procedures. There's also family and forgiveness.

I can't wait for book 7 to come out; but I too am just a little nervous to see how they are going to adapt these for the big screen. There is so much detail I just do not see how a movie is going to do the book justice. As for who should play the parts; I think they need to be unknowns or actors that are well known in the UK that maybe we haven't really heard of here.

So come on guys don't judge the movie before you see a preview, there's always the possiblity that they won't focus as much on the romance and more on the conflict between the English and the Scots. I can't wait to see who they get to play Black Jack Randall!

Amanda on Dec 10, 2008

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number 5. Richard, there are many bad gyes, the first being the great-great-great-great- grandfather of her present day husband. Whom she later tell's when she returns to her present that his f-ing G-grandfather was a f-ing pervert. Being how perversion hasn't changed much from then to know, perversion being just what it is. Another would be the man called Steven Bonnet, irish, pirate smuggler, and all around creep raped the 18th Century man, Jamie Fraser's, Daughter when she set out to find the father she just learned of.. Imagine what a Scottish Highlander would feel after learning this, but then finding out he just be the living hell out of his Son-in-law, thinking he was the man who had raped his daughter, What would you do. Could you sell the man to Indians as a slave.
This is history at it's best and even it's worst. There has been alot of research gone into these books. Diana Gabaldon even wrote the Outlandish Companion. A book that shows her research and how to speak some Galic, Facts of actual people that lived in the 1700's Prince Charlie, for one. She has woven a story around and into history, making it believeable. Makeing you to want to know Jamie and Claire, It is an art that she has done. The pages a canvas of words that turn and twist into mystory, history, love, jealousy, vanity, witchcraft, timetravel.

number 6 Ivylas HBO, yes or BBC, something where they can't smother the foreplay. And they can't take out the swearing, Jesus H Roosevelt Christ is a line that will NEVER be forgotton. I believe they could do Outlander as a 6 or 8 hour miniseries and then take the other books and make one hour show's on like Thursday nights. All of America would be at home Thursday night 8pm Central to see what Jamie and Claire are up to. Are they going along with the books? It will be bigger than Harry Potter, Bigger than The Lord of The Rings, But it can be done, and done very well after reading The Potter Series and seeing the Movies and LOTR, they did and excellent job of trying to stay close. I SAY IT CAN BE DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My husband who was totally sworn against romance books, and I have read a lot of romance books, These are the books all romance authors should take thier cue from. What is romance, love, devostation, without true charactors with soul. They live in every reader that is addicted to DG's books. One reader told me Jamie is the reason she will never get married. No man could measure up to him. He is honor, honesty, humble, thoughful, deadly, fierce, proud, God fearing, superstitous, educated, a leader that has made mistakes, a thinker. My husband and I are prestenly listening to Breath of Snow and Ashes, unabridged, narrated by Davina Porter, God she is wonderful,
Everyone must listen to her do the voices. I have read every book a dozen times at least and listened to all the tapes, He, my husband has read all but the last one and loves her writing. To get him to enjoy her didn't take much, just got him in the car on a long trip with Outlander on Cd and let out the line a little. Before you know it he was hooked

number 8. I agree take your time, spend the money, don't botch it up. Do it right! Do a movie each book some books might need more than one movie. Like I said it can be done. You will make money on this film. GUARENTEED!!! You already have a fan club that is seventeen years old. Make the first Miniseries movie and then sell it for Christmas gifts that Christmas while planing Dragonfly in Amber. This is Great!!

judy jones on Dec 11, 2008

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dear ladies and the odd gent,

i have to say that i agree with most here this film needs new blood like what j.k Rowling did for Harry Potter that way we can keep that particular cast and work round them in later films, and well the do have special make-up artists and visual effects that can help alot too… also like most movies to date they can also air brush the characters these days too ..so bye bye wrinkles and bags under the eyes lol.

But …yes unknowns would be less hassle but the accents would have to be as real as possible and hopefully the actor/actress own ……… A Blockbuster here we come !!!!!!

andrinna on Dec 13, 2008

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I cant imagine the likes of Peter Jackson (who would be excellent) directing such a movie or any of the bigger directors such as Michael Bay or Jerry Bruckheimer, so no doubt the director would be someone like Mike Newell ( Four weddings and a funeral) or maybe even Rob Marshall (Memoirs of a geisha) .
Thinking about it Chris Columbus could do well…… but its gonna be interesting to see the person in the directors chair …who knows maybe Mel Gibson might lend a hand since he done Braveheart lol .

andrinna on Dec 13, 2008

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My Comment is not about the novels or the movie itself, I have read all the books in series & that's all I'll say about that.
My comment goes to Alex Billington him/herself (trying not to presume you are a man by your name or intellect).

Billington wrote: "Anyone familiar with the books that can convince me otherwise?".

How can anyone write an article on ANY subject without doing the research??!! You would like others to read the books for you & then convince you differently, how asinine is that, Alex Billington?

Read the novels, lazy dumb ass, everything you need to make an INFORMED decision is right there.

Cary on Dec 15, 2008

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Hahahaha! That was awesome Cary! I couldn't have said it better myself!

Jules on Dec 16, 2008

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I think the Outlander series is a bit like Gone With the Wind in the sense that everyone says "Romance!" when it's really about soooooo much more.

I mean, yes, ok, there's some romance in it. But if you don't have feelings, then you're not human. No-one likes a book with robots as main characters unless the robots have feelings, of course…

As for gayness. Um, a little. ok, more than is average, really. And there's the sadistical-maniacal evil kind as well as normal human and kind of nice version. in different characters, by the way.

and blood and gore, oh the blood and gore!

Doris on Dec 17, 2008

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A friend got me interested in the Outlander series four years ago and several copies of each book later I have yet to put them down. That friend of mine and I have even taken to giving each other items that were mentioned in the books as christmas presents. (the hardest thing to find was a hedgehog) LOL I would love to hear from others who love Dianas books too.

Carrie Attebury on Dec 20, 2008

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I can't wait for the series to become a movie. Outlander changed the way I chose books period. Yeah, there is romance but it's not like "I felt his hard manhood throbbing against my thigh" sort of thing. More like "he kissed me and I instantly knew what was on his mind so I blew out the candle" then the next chapter would begin.

The history, adventure, torture, fights, scandal I think would appeal to men if you just get off the couch and read it.

The only thing you have to get over is that it's written in the first person from Claire's point of view. If you can get over that then you'll be just as impressed by the non-stop action this book has to offer.

Jessie on Dec 20, 2008

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I've just finished the sixth book in the series (can't wait for #7)and am left in awe of the intricacy of the story lines, complexity of the characters and the amazing detail of Gabaldon's research. Her unique style brings the characters to life in such a way that I feel I have traveled through time and lived along side of them. I have never experienced a work of literature that has left me so profoundly touched. Being an avid Romantic fiction reader and also a writer myself, I say without a doubt that Gabaldon is in a league of her own.
As for bringing it all to the big screen, a series of films is the only way to capture the epic sweep of the story and the time period. Each book has a central theme amid the nonstop action, drama and romance and could make an amazing sequel series if done well. I do think Kevin McKidd would be a great older Jaime, but I think casting will have to take the risk of choosing unknowns for the central roles. Fans of the books have a picture of the characters in their minds. Putting a familiar face on a beloved character in your mind immediately takes something away from the power of your imagined hero or heroine. Think Harry Potter and James Bond. We might miss Peirce Brosnan, but you have to admit, Daniel Craig stepped up to the plate admirably, despite being relatively unknown.
And Alex, take a chance. You won't be sorry and you may learn some things about European and American history, not to mention expanding both your vocabulary and romantic horizons. Women love the men in these books. They should be a must read for young men as an example of how men can be honorable, dependable, tenderhearted, strong in their faith, courageous and faithful. These are traits that are sorely lacking in many men of our time and women would love to see return. I am fortunate enough to have found my Jaime, but men of such caliber are few and far between. Maybe more men should be reading Gabaldon's work.

Paula on Dec 21, 2008

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I'm sorry, but these books are not romance novels. I believe Ms. Gabaldon said once that the first novel was pushed as a romance because the publishers didn't know what else to do with it. The only thing that makes it fit the description is the fact that Claire and Jamie end up falling in love. There are a few sex scenes that are incredibly hot but not the fluffy stuff of most romance novels. If anything, I would say that this series is more historical on an epic proportion. The first book starts out just before the second Jacobean uprising and the most recent book takes place at the beginning of the American Revolution. I am also curious to see how the whole Jamie/Black Jack Randall thing plays out on the big screen. Romance? I think not. Action, betrayal, mystery loads!
And I think that Jason Isaacs would be absolutely perfect as Frank/Black Jack Randall. Don't have a clue about the rest of the cast, but definitely Jason Isaacs!!

Melissa on Dec 22, 2008

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These books are fantastic. Plain and simple. I agree as well that unknown or up and coming actors should be playing the main roles as there are specific characteristics that each character must have in order to even start remotely putting the movie in the right perspective.

Definitely I agree with Melissa, Frank/Jack Randall must be played by Jason Isaacs. You could easily like him for the first bit of the movie as Frank, but then hate him for the rest of the movie as Jack.

Jamie and Claire's parts will be so hard to fill…

Sarah on Dec 26, 2008

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Ok, so we all agree that casting will be difficult at best, and the fact that outlander is outlandish in terms of genre does not help the marketing. I would have to compromize by saying it's a historical novel with a core of true, everlasting romance, the characters are so larger than life and their relationship so heartfelt that it's the spine of the entire series 6 books and counting.

so I strongly recomend mr. Alex Billington to read, compare with other regency romances(which I'm sure he has not read) and then do his review again. because outlander is hard core in terms of romance.

about actors, again with age and features, the only actor I've seen capable of withstanding Diana Gabaldon careful scrutiny is Gerard Butler, but he is Jamie after Voyager, the younger himself must be played by someone age wise, say robert pattinson, I'm currently obssessed with twilight and I saw him on the vanity fair special issue, he is Jamie, hands down he's my image of rugged male perfection, or Travis Fimmel, who is not that suitable accent wise but has the looks.

Keira Knightley as Claire, over my dead body, Claire is tall, curvy, sassy, sultry, sarcastic and beautiful in an unconventional way, her skin is opalescent and she has sherry eyes. no offense to keira, but she's flat chested, large boned with no meat on them, blonde and pretty not beautiful like claire is written to be, Jamie often claims claire's back side is very alluring, she's wide through the hips, and has curly auburn hair, does this sound like keira to you? I have thought Anne Hathaway, she's my claire, but that's just me.

jason isaacs is too old to play jack/frank, and he does not look even slighty gay to me, not that he cannot play it, but the carachter needs someone capable of true evil, say christian bale, who by the way it's british? (american psycho ring a bell?)

what do the ladies of lallybroch think? I want to see actors who do actually fit the description and act the part well, not newcomers, but true likeness and fine performances, after all it's a blockbuster not a small project.

victoria segovia on Dec 26, 2008

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As for the actors to play the key roles, Diana Gabaldon's own vision is Keira Knightley plus 40 lbs. Robert Pattinson is too short….Jamie is 6'4 not 6'0 or 6'1. As for unknowns, I have no problem with that but I highly doubt that the producers will stick to Diana's vision. Remember in the book Gone with the Wind, Scarlett O'Hara was not pretty. The producers will take literary license and that may ruin a movie for me. All of this may never happen, it has been optioned before and nothing came of it.

Juanita on Dec 26, 2008

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I love these books as a series and I can see how men would think that they would not enjoy the story, but I got my husband to read the first book and now he is on the fifth. He must secretly like them in order to get through them all. They are pretty big books! They are romance novels but there is so much more to them. There is a lot of action, war and violence as well as a great historical aspect.

Meredith on Dec 29, 2008

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I would love to see this series on film. Movie, TV doesn't matter to me as long as they don't cut it to make it fit someone's time frame. Please take the time and money to do it right!

I believe Clare and Jamie should be unknowns to really fill the descriptions correctly, but every time I read about Roger I see Jack Black playing the part.

Can't wait for the next book.

Shirley on Dec 29, 2008

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Dianna Gabaldon's outlander Series is one of the most unique book sets I have ever stumbled apon. Not only does she get her history correct she also gets her medical facts, her herblogy , her astronomy her physical locations along with every other detail such as other celtic language of the time period correct. There are very few Authors who are willing to write in such detail. Her background as a Microbiologist might have a bit to do with wanting to get the facts correct. This bonus for her readers is a major plus. Dianna is a Internet Cult Mega Star book writer, World Wide Famous along with being one heck of a tale spinner. She is one Author I do keep tabs on.
I am looking foward to a series of movies. I want them to be as well done as the books though. We need the very best Directors and Producers as well as solid actors who can speak Galic, French and English. One other thing, everyone involved in the project must read all the books and keep a copy of the Outlander Companion on their bedside table.

Victoria on Dec 29, 2008

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While I'm pretty against pigeon-holing people into genres, I have to say, the Outlander series has something for everyone.
For the folks who're saying, "Eww, romance is icky", think about the context. It's the middle of the Jacobite Rising–and there's a major, bloody battle within the first couple of chapters. And then the action doesn't let up.
There's a relationship, sure, but well done enough that I'm sure no one will mind. The relationship grounds the story, but isn't the entirety of it.

I just hope that the producers and directors are faithful to the source material; it's so great, I can't bear to see it ruined.
I am wondering, though—how the heck are they going to do the prison scene?

PS: What about http://www.independent.ie/multimedia/archive/00158/JonathanRhysMeyers__158003b.jpg <–him as Jack/Frank Randall? He's such a frosty looking dude.

Tabi on Dec 29, 2008

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I totally agree with Tabi, Jonathan Rhys Meyers (the tudors on showtime) would be a great addition to the cast whether as Jack/Frank or Dougal, or Colum, or even Jamie's brother in law, he has a great acting range, and being irish would do nicely with gaelic. also on tudors Natalie dormer would be great for jenny fraser, don't you think?
http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/RV5BGedeumo/Showtime+Sheraton+Hotels+Host+Premiere+Tudors watch this pic, she has the blue eyes, tiny frame and dark hair, and she's fearsome as Anne Boleyn.

I'm still struggling with the actress playing Claire, have you seen Anne Hathaway on becoming jane (Jane Austen biography?) I thought she was great, and robert pattinson was great at twilight vanity fair did a cover story, check out these pictures, I don't like kristen stewart that much but she has the looks to play Claire at least in the face.
http://thebosh.com/celebritypictures/photos/image/3703
http://thebosh.com/celebritypictures/photos/image/3699
http://www.smh.com.au/news/books/austens-sex-and-sensibility/2007/08/05/1186252540362.html

what do you guys think?

victoria on Dec 30, 2008

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My stepdaughter very cautiously gave me Outlander as a birthday gift seven months ago, knowing I despise romance novels. She told me that it was a historical novel, with some romance, and would I PLEASE read it? She hasn't even completed the series, as she is blind, and will only "read" unabridged versions, and hasn't found the last three available for her reader, and they are far more expensive than the printed version.
I normally read some historical novels, and prefer mysteries and crime dramas. One of the things that immediately impressed me was the book's length. I do not like a short read and generally will not pick up a book under 400 pages.
Outlander was so well-written and such a good adventure that I found myself at the bookstore buying the next two books in the series well before finishing. Into the second book, I bought the remaining three, so that I would have them at hand. I also bought The Outlandish Companion and one of the Lord John books.
To label this series as merely romance does Ms. Gabaldon a great disservice. This is so thoroughly well researched and well-written, with very greatly developed characters throughout the series. The details richly spread throughout the entire series give the reader vivid pictures of both surroundings and characters. I do see where it would be difficult to make this into any film, given that we've all likely imagined these characters' likenesses, but the stories and historical detail, and wealth of research that went into the creation of this wonderful work are so very unique that this series would make for a great epic film series.
There are very few such series that don't have some romantic subplot woven within, and Outlander should be no different. We, as women and men, have been doing what comes naturally since the beginning. And, yes, there would be things left out, of course. The books are long, and rich with detail, but I think it could be done well without losing any truly important nuance.

Kat on Dec 30, 2008

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Alex,
I am what you would call your average guy. I like working on my car, hunting, fishing, camping, white water rafting, woodworking and other "manly" activities. A perfect meal for me would be BBQ steak, baked potato, and corn on the cob. I would not be what others would call a bookworm. In fact, I hadn't really sat down and read many books before I started reading this series. Now I read a lot more than I ever have, and have lots of favorite authors.

I was first introduced to these books, when my wife got the first one from a friend. She would read me some of the funny remarks said between Claire and Jamie. She would also tell me some of the plot, knowing how I like historical fiction.

I then decided I would read the book when she was done. I did not think it was like a romance novel, but more like a survival book from a historical standpoint. It shows that the history we read about, is just information. That is kind of like seeing a historical picture of someone and being told what they did on such and such date. Just the basic information, and no background knowledge of why they did what they did. The book lets you live the experiences the characters in the book and what they would have had to go through to live. Simple things we take for granted like toilet paper, bathrooms, and socks, are not something you just go to the store and buy in the story. It is a real depiction of what you would need to do to survive in those times. I don't know many people, including myself, who haven't thought of going back in time to live.

If I was going to live out in the wild for an extended period of time, this is a series of books I would want to take with me. I have learned almost as much from the series, as I have reading survival manuals. It also got me thinking about other things, that hadn't even crossed my mind until I read them. It was like reading someones journal of their life.

As far as the romance part goes, I would have to call it just part of the story. I didn't think of it that way at all. It's more like a description of the love between a man and a woman, and how deeply devoted he is to her, and she to him. Lot's of women I have talked to about this book seem to enter this dream-like state when talking about Jamie. They get all excited and get a gleam in their eyes. I don't understand it, but do know they do get excited about a scottish accent.

In closing, I don't think any man who reads this is gay. Those who say otherwise, are probably to scared to read the book, because their buddies might tease them. I say, be a man and do what you want to do, and damn what your buddies think. What kind of buddy are they, if you have to change who you are to suit them? Remember "He who whittles himself away to suit other, soon has nothing left of himself."

It would be well worth reading in my opinion. Then you can decide for yourself.

Joe on Dec 31, 2008

78

I've read the Outlander series several times. It will all depend on how they write the movie. If they stick closely to the book, then it will be a hit. Also, they need to JUST DO the first book — not try to pack in all of the books in one movie. I think these books have the potential to be epic blockbusters… as long as they have quality actors and remain historical in nature (like Braveheart) versus a cheesy chick-flick romance. Just my 2 cents…

Maria on Dec 31, 2008

79

P.S. — Time for another "Lord of the Rings"… only this time the story takes place in Scotland. I love the idea of that.

Maria on Dec 31, 2008

80

OUTLANDER is not a romance book — it really is so much more. It's well-written and well-researched, and does NOT fit into one genre. In fact it combines several genres: historical, romance, time-travel, action, and adventure. The characters are very real, and Diana Gabaldon (the author) is clever with the plot. There's suspense and passion, and blood and gore…it's a very original and very unique book.

After devouring the Harry Potter series, I didn't know what to read next! Now I am sooo addicted to Outlander — it's my new Harry Potter for sure. And the story of Jamie and Claire is better than Twilight!!!

Shara on Jan 1, 2009

81

Mr. Wallace needs to be careful of overlooking the obscure, small references that do not seem important. These little pieces are actually quite vital to the story. There is so much that is not spelled out in the story and only inferred. Every time you read the book you find something new that you missed during each of the other times you have read it. These small details show up later in the story or in a later book. For instance, the skull from an archeological dig Dr. (Joe Abernathy?) shows Claire in the 1960s and the murder that takes place in the Voodoo cave in Haiti during the slave revolt in the 1700s. The details from book one show up in later books and vice verse. I cannot tell you the number of times, I had an "oh wow" moment from these stories and had to go back to a previous book and re-read whole sections.

One of my favorite things about the books is the Gabaldon Time Travel Theory. Diana makes the time travel seem so real. You can actually believe that time portals exist and are the explanation for the fact that all stories start out "200 years ago" and odd occurances such as a school of fish falling out of the sky in the middle of a desert or why Nessie is only seen in Loch Ness at times.

And the details of the medical procedures are outstanding! The loa loa worm!! ugh!

Michele on Jan 2, 2009

82

Wonderful books!
There's definately plenty of intrigue, strategy, battling blood and gore for, um, men to enjoy the movie. Including plenty of tiltillating risque situations.

Conniekat8 on Jan 3, 2009

83

I can't believe that I have just purchase the whole series AGAIN! I loved them the first time I read them, passed them on to my daughters who are sharing them with each other, then bought them again and gave them to a friend, now find I want to read them again. So, I found a good deal on Amazon and got the whole batch so I can read them while I am snowed in. Guess I had best find a way to keep them this time as I will probably want to re-read them again after the next one is released. What a testament to the wonder of this ongoing saga. I even read the Sir John series, even though I hesitated for reasons best not said here, but was glad I did because Diana made those stories even terrific. Sir John's story is closely woven into Jamie's and Claire's that I felt his own stories had to be read as well. They do fill in a bit more of his history with Jamie, thus making them part of the whole….don't skip them for the reasons I almost did.

Sally on Jan 4, 2009

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Oh, more more comment….I do agree with "Maria" in that I believe they should only make Outlander into a movie, and not try to cram the series into one movie…too much story to do it justice. It would pique interest in the other books and thus maybe more movies….just my opinion added to Maria's.

Sally on Jan 4, 2009

85

NO!!! Roger is almost as tall as Jamie. He has long, thick, almost black hair, and beautiful green eyes. Roger is hansome as hell. Jack Black is so NOT!!! Paul Telfer would make a great Roger. Gerard Bulter for an older Jamie, Minnie Driver for Claire, and Alicia Witt as Brianna…. she's the only one who doesn't need a good natural accent.. she was raised in boston

Rachel on Jan 4, 2009

86

I am 66 years old, an English major who graduated from Vassar College (which had a VERY snobby, elitist English department when I attended in the early 1960's), a former high school English teacher, a wife of 43 years, a mother of 4 and grandmother of 2. My son's girlfriend introduced me to this series and I absolutely love the first three. For Christmas my son and his girlfriend gave me the remaining three and in addition, I have ordered The Outlandish Companion. The other day I told my husband to be sure to bury me with books, just in case there is a hereafter. My choice would be The Outlander Series!

All my choices for the portrayal of Jamie would be too old now!

Joyce Radochia on Jan 5, 2009

87

My girlfriend tried for years to introduce me to the books as romance. I never bit because I detest romances! However, I was looking for a new adventure book to read and she snuck it in under my radar… short end of the story, I'm absolutely addicted! My husband is constantly asking what's up with those two when he hears me cackling from across the room. He's already decided since he knows so much about these two, he'll be reading the books as well since he's addicted to the story line I keep feeding him. He wants to know what Jamie will do next!

Tammy on Jan 5, 2009

88

Most most definately Kevin McKidd as Jamie. Just look up his photo on IMDB. As far as the name Jamie sounding too feminine I admit when a saw that the main characters name was Jamie I thought I wouldn't be able to get past that. Believe me the character of James Alexander Malcolm MacKensie Frasier is secure enough in his masculinity to be called Jamie!

Liz on Jan 8, 2009

89

Roger's green eyes are a key component to the story. Roger must have green eyes. Moss green just like Geilie's.

Michele on Jan 8, 2009

90

contacts can do that! dye can fix hair. what the characters need are stature and presence! that, the make-up dept can't provide…

Tammy on Jan 8, 2009

91

I can't see Gerard Butler as Jamie at all… He doesn't even look like Jamie, since according to Diana Gabaldon he is supposed to resemble male supermodel Gabriel Aubrey (without the blond hair of course). Even if you look at Diana's official website, there are pictures of Jamie from the Outlander graphic novel — and in there he STILL looks nothing like Gerard Butler.

Maybe Gerry could play Dougal instead, no?

Shara on Jan 9, 2009

92

Definitely enough in this series to appeal to both genders. Strong romantic elements, to be sure, but also ABUNDANT historical detail (strong emphasis on 18th century American colonial life, especially in the colony of North Carolina…so far), war, violence, witchcraft, slavery, medical scenes — although the one scene where Claire sews up the guy's scrotum might have a few men blanching — farming, hunting, Indians (Mohawk, Tuscarora, Iriquois, Cherokee), political intrigue and espionage, mystery, ghosts, sea-travel and pirates, hidden treasure, naturalism,etc. They're more like (extremely well-researched) historical fiction with a fantasy twist.

Jennifer on Jan 9, 2009

93

I was never into the Romance kind of novels, especially the historical romances, but my mom convinced me to read the series. The moment I picked up Outlander, I couldn't put it down. While yes it is a romance novel, it is also full of mystery, wonderful historical references, and a fair bit of battleing as well. I fell in love with the characters and the story, and I even got my husband to read the books as well. He is not as in love with them as I am but he found them to be a addicting read. I have always hoped that a movie would be made.
Agreeing with many of the readers, you would definetly have to get the movie characters as close to the book characters as possible. You would also have to stick to the book as much as possible. I think that if the movie is done right that it would do extremely well and could appeal to both gender's.

Chelsea on Jan 11, 2009

94

Diana Gabaldon's book would make a wonderful movie - like Pirates of the Caribbean - action, adventure, romance, humor, war. Something for everyone. But the actors would have to be the right ones and Diana should have say who would play the main characters.

Pamela on Jan 13, 2009

95

I am so looking forward to this movie! I love the books, I've re-read them 100 times and they have changed my live totally. In every case.
I am not only looking forward to know who will be cast but also to the costumes, the landscape, the music (hopefully they get Hans Zimmer to do the music), the food….everything.
I personally wouldn't have problems if the movie makers would not keep as close to the book as possible, as long as they manage to capture the feelings, the emotions and as long as they don't mess up with the historical facts.

Now, as Robert Pattinson has already been mentioned, I've got to say that he's my favourite for the young Jamie.He has the looks (compare his face to the Jamie in the graphic novel), he has the exact age (hes 22 by now, turning 23 in May) and he's not such a wimp like other men at this age. And he's a very talented actor. Ok, he is not 6'4 but 6'1, but that really doesn't matter, 6'1 is also very tall.
For the older Jamie I would love Gerry Butler. He is born for this role, he might not know it though

Lisa on Jan 14, 2009

96

Hi, although Gerry Butler is really hot and I really like him, Scotland does have more actors than just him. Its a shame that the braveheart guy is involved but at least time its fiction as he went crazy changing the dates and events of scottish history in braveheart. It also annoyed me that it wasn't a scottish actor playing the main role.
I would prefer that he wasn't ginger but scottish people aren't that keen on red hair believe it or not.
My brother and my dad have read the books and loved them for the history and the action. So I think its a book for both genders.

I think she has done a really good job of making it feel authentic and I love the books!

From a scottish person

sase8686 on Jan 15, 2009

97

I can't believe I just read all these comments! I'll try to keep mine short.
A couple of things: I too loooove this series and have recently converted 7 more friends, and a brother into fans. Actually it was my other brother who originally told me about this action packed series and I have since last spring read the whole shebang twice. Please don't cast Kiera Knightly in this movie. Oh please. Unknowns would be best. I'd love to see it as a mini-series, or each book as a seperate movie but if you're going to cram the whole saga into 1 picture, I think most fans would agree, don't bother at all. Once you've read the books, you'll know why. I can't wait for the 7th book and can't wait for the movie if it's truly to happen.

johnna on Jan 16, 2009

98

Okay Everyone!!
I just watched "The Duchess" with Keira Knightly. It was a good movie, very accurate historically, but after seeing her act as the duchess I am mortified that I previously thought she would do well as Claire. I want to apologize to everyone for ever saying so. She did this awful thing with her mouth that made look extremely constipated, and it just grated on my nerves through out the entire movie.
Outlander is my all time favorite book series, and while I'm excited to see it go to the big screen, I am also horrified that it could be massacred in the making. I love Claire and Jamie, I feel like I know them intimately, It would make me really angry if they were't portrayed accurately.

Rachel on Jan 16, 2009

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Way to go on labeling the book, by the way. Good job.
You have to actually read some of the book to criticize it. So, in answer to that, read "Outlander" because it is not just a "romance novel," though I won't deny that there are a few - ahem - romantic parts. There is also lots of great history in the book, as well as some action. Not to mention that the whole series is written fantastically. Dianna Gabaldon has great diction in all of her novels. But be warned: once you start reading "Outlander" you won't be able to put it down - which is sometimes a bad thing because it is quite a lengthy book.

kay on Jan 17, 2009

100

I am almost through with the series and I love it! And if love scenes are too "girly" for the guys, they can easily be skipped over…they are about a paragraph each. The rest of the book is awesome fighting and cool history. By the way, I think Kate Winslet would make an awesome Claire, and I'm surprised no one has mentioned her.

Melissa on Jan 17, 2009

101

I thought of Kate, but she would have to wear contacts. Her eyes are VERY blue, and if you remember, Jamie refers to Claire's eyes as sometimes being the color of whiskey, and sometimes the color of sherry.

Claire and Jamie will be difficult to cast. There is no question about that… I only pray that whom ever are chosen to play these parts… will do them a righteous justice!

Rachel on Jan 18, 2009

102

I did realize that she didn't have the right eye color, but as you said contacts are not very difficult to put someone in. I'm pretty sure its not a good idea to give someone a role based on their eye color. For example, Harry Potter is supposed to have green eyes….its talked about a lot in the book, but Daniel Radcliffe has blue eyes, and for some reason they never put him in contacts….oh well. But yes, it will be a very tough decision to cast them!

Melissa on Jan 18, 2009

103

Yesterday I went to see DEFIANCE. There's an actress in the movie, named Alexa Davalos, who plays the main guy's girlfriend. As I was watching her I had the thought that she'd be a good Claire. She fits my image of Claire well, at any rate.

Jennifer on Jan 18, 2009

104

Just have to jump on the "Outlander Express" and agree with so many before me. This story (because all 6 books are one long wonderful story) is an obsession. I have persuaded dozens of friends and coworkers to come along for the ride, and maybe 2 have not become fans, but many, many have. We have enjoyed hours and hours of discussion at work, etc about ALL aspects of the books, philosophical, historical, religious, and most of all the relationships between Jamie and Claire, Jamie and Jack, Jamie and Bree, Jamie and Roger, Claire and Frank……
I'm am, though, not convinced that one feature length film is the way to go. I think a mini-series, or even just a regular series on Sci-Fi, or HBO would be so much better, and more compelling.
Also, the audio books are fantastic (although I'm not completely in love with the narrator's interpretation of how Claire speaks, usually to snippy, spiteful, dramatic, and bossy. My Claire is more subtle!) But I love listening to them, its almost as good as a movie, and gets me through a lot of traffic jams.
You must read them, even if its only to learn how to "tickle a fish."

Robin on Jan 18, 2009

105

Hello again,

I've made a couple of coments so far about the Outlander Series so far and am waiting as patiently as I can for the graphic novels and the Movie/ Major Motion Picture/ Mini Series/ Turned into a regular once a week show on like HBO, or Master Piece Theature!!!!
I also agree with a comment made by a Cary, You must read the books!!!!! If you can't find the time to read them, Listen to the Unabridged CD's, If you can't afford them go to Recorded Books.Com and rent them for about $20.00 per month. One of these options MUST be done!!! If you don't believe Outlander has a following go to U-tube and put in Diana Gabaldons name, there you will find a great amount of knowledge all from Jamie and Claire FANS. Short movies of the Outlander. Who people would want to see play different charactor's. And you Randall Wallace, must not forget the small charactors!!!!! Mrs Bugg, The Nun and her dog Bojont. there are unlimited amounts of charactors here. A wide playing field that could make such an Epic type Series. Think Roots, or LOTR, or Harry Potter. These BOOKS must be created, must be made come to life, the following would be huge, not just in the US but in Europe, Germany, Scotland. It IS for men and women, with not just romance, but murder, intrigue, mystery, history, travel, wars, battles, castles, witch burnings, voodoo, slavery.
It's about love, hate, relationships, heart, adventure, sorrow, bliss, trust, respect, faith, honor, revenge, truth, family.
I have read these novels six times now, and listened to the cd's, shared books that I have collected with friends, family, work associates, anyone who loves to travel by reading.
Diana Gabaldon is such a story teller, and once you start reading the Outlander, even if it is for the 10th time, it is new and engulfing. You can't stop. You can't pick up another book till your finished and then you want to start with the next of the series, Dragon Fly in Amber, and so on and so on.

You will go with them on thier lifes journey, and find rest.

Don't you remember when you were young, coming home in anticipation of watching that favorite new Series, and WoW if you had other plans that conflicted with it. You had to make sure that the VCR was ready to record so you wouldn't miss a minute.. And now you can buy all your favorite series on DVD.

Plus all the other little quicks that come with hit movies. Clothes, toys, T-shirts. But Mr. Wallace is this. Don't muck it up. It is worth every dime you and yours sink into it for it will return ten fold to you. These will make such a Series!

I am addicted!
meoutlander@yahoo.com
I am on my space and don't forget u-tube

judy jones on Jan 21, 2009

106

I too am addicted to these books.

And I agree that they are NOT ROMANCE. They are most definately historical and have amazing character development. I have never been more invested in characters from a book as much as I am these characters.

I have to admit I am a little scared at the idea of these books becoming a movie. I have seen some many good books made into movies that I hated. I love this story and the characters so much I just don't want to see it messed up. But hey if it is done right, go for it. Just take the time to get it right, please.

And Alex, Please read the books before you pass judgement. I don't even think you have the right to write such an article without first knowing what the hell you are talking about. As far as your 'gay' comment, I would like to see you live in the times these books are in and let's just see how strong you are. Nothing about this story is gay. Don't talk crap about something before you research and read, man.

And OMG this is nothing like 'Ever After' please no comparison whatsoever!

I too had to be convinced to read these books and now that I have I am so glad I did. Read them and join us in our addiction.

Melinda on Jan 23, 2009

107

Okay, I apologize, Alex did not make the 'gay' comment. That guy Mard did but my comment about it still remains the same.

Melinda mmatney313@msn.com on Jan 23, 2009

108

I have not seen many posts from guys - and I want to let all guys know this series of books is amazing. I am well read and consider this one of the best series of books I have come across. I did find the covers a bit frilly initially but in subsequent editions and reprints they have made them more generic - now I don't cover them up on the plane.

Science fiction, historical drama, romance, adventure - not sure you can classify these books. I have read the entire series through twice as well as the Lord John books. My father-in-law, brother and several male work colleagues (I am in the military) have also thoroughly enjoyed the series.

Definitely not just romance novels. It will be interesting to see what they do with the screen play though as I don't think you can fit science fiction, historical drama, romance, and adventure into 2 hours. Its a shame the mini-series option expired.

Eagerly awaiting Echo in the Bone.

DAVE on Jan 23, 2009

109

This series is awesome. It's like crack, you can't stop reading. I loved it! I have yet to read a book that a movie portrays with quality. Some stories should be left to the books and I believe that this is one of them. The producers will need someone as passionate as I am about the series to bring it to the big screen; now they have my email address!!!!!

Pam on Jan 23, 2009

110

Do you still need convincing. I have read the series twice and am on my third go-round so that all will be fresh in my mind when the new book is released. With every reading I pick up something new. I am amazed at how Gabaldon can keep so many details in her brain about each character tying together pieces from previous books, subtle connections. I laugh out loud, I cry, her words, her characters…you feel for them, you know them. Now in all honesty the first book is pretty much a chic book, however an excellent one. From that point on I would have to classify the rest of the series as historical fiction. Who ever is cast- it will be a tall order…i don't think any actors can portray the images she has created. Claire and Jamie are two people…we the readers know them. I will say though that I think men should enjoy the story if they get overthemselves. It is similar to Braveheart or Rob Roy with stronger female protagonists that complement the males in the storyline.

Linda on Jan 23, 2009

111

I think you're beginning to get the idea of how us diehard Gabaldon fans feel about these books. While Braveheart was exciting to watch, I would like to point out that the Outlander series have far more historical accuracy and intrigue for me to think of including them in the same catagory as Braveheart.

As far as the actors concerned, I want to agree with Jackie who mentioned Kevin McKidd. I've had a crush on him since he filmed the Rome series. We also know from Rome that he can handle the fights scenes and looks good with a sword!

I am however more concerned that the screen writer and director treat the books with respect and follow them as closely as possible. Gabaldon has such a loyal following that any deviance from her storyline will break our hearts.

Juliana on Jan 24, 2009

112

I don't think I would want to watch any film(s) of these books; I think it would spoil my idea of them all. They would become "ordinary people". I cant think of any actress or actor who would fit the image in my mind and I am not sure I would like any they would choose. The characters are all 'larger than life' and so would be too hard to make realistic.
.
Somehow the magic would be gone. Also I am sure they would cut out parts - who could blame them, as think how many pages there are in all - so far! It would become - "once over lightly". We are invited into the minds of many of the characters; how could this be portrayed convincingly?

Much of the story is in the description, of places, people, facial expressions, thoughts and so on. I fear it could become banal if filmed. I prefer it to stay as the written word, where I can use my imagination.

Pat January 25 2009

Pat on Jan 24, 2009

113

OMG!Ever since the very first time I read these books I have wanted them to make a movie! I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!!!The best books I have ever read! I think the perfect Jamie would be the new red- headed guy on "Greys Anatomy". I think he could do perfect, but I'm not sure about his height…I can't wait for her to write another story! It just can't be the end…

Rebecca on Jan 25, 2009

114

not that they are the right ages but:
Mel Gibson - great Jamie - sadly too old
Catherine Zeta Jones - Claire (perfect figure for it (when not on extreme diet) eyes the right colour and has a bit of fire to her character)
Reece Witherspoon - Loaghaire (she's spoilt and really annoying and blond and a little pretty - yes perfect!)
Live Tyler - Briana (Stron build, strong woman and can do spoilt brat - though I recall that Diana Gabaldon did not seem to think she had written Briana as spoilt.)

Ok I know they aren't the right ages or anything but those are my picks. (so please don't write and tell me they are the wrong ages ok)

Thouroughly agree with the comment about the makers of the Tudors being a good choice for making a TV mini series - a film woudl be wonderful but would probably fall way short fo doing justice to the books.

I think if men took the time to read these books they would really get into them. But of course most won't. Shame, they are missing a good read.

Gabaldon Fan on Jan 25, 2009

115

Absolutely love the series. Any movie is better with Johnny Depp

teacher lady on Jan 25, 2009

116

NOOO!!!! Alex, Please do not ruin this story with Liv Tyler, Mel Gibson, or Catherine Zeta Jones…. I will not see it. I will boycott! Jamie and Claire deserve SOOO Much more! Better! Newer!!! and Reece Witherspoon as Loaghaire? I just threw up! And there is no place in this story for Johnny Depp! I appreciate all of the before named talent, but NOT for Outlander! Outlander is a first class story. There is just nothing… NOHING! that even comes close! It's deserves the BEST, and this time that means original, new and fresh talent. It is almost imperative that the actors scottish, and english. By that I mean from England! and Scotland! Accent is very important to feel of this story.

I'm beginning to regret that I ever even got involved on this board! Alex, either make the movie or don't, but read the freakin' book before you decide, it's an amazing story, and it will change your life!

Rachel on Jan 25, 2009

117

RELAX RACHEL!

I just saw Inkheart and Paul Bettany is an excellent actor. I could see him in a supporting role-don't think he is quite Jamie. Jamie is going to be a difficult part to cast. He is so integral to the story and very mutifaceted.

teacher lady on Jan 25, 2009

118

And Rachel-Catherine Zeta Jones is Welsh-very close to Scottish.

teacher lady on Jan 25, 2009

119

I loved the Outlander series. I think it will make a great 'Adventure' movie. One who has not read the series, should not comment. True there is some romance, but there is also history and adventure…..

Denyse Marchand on Jan 26, 2009

120

Outlander and thesubsequent series is by far he best series of books i have ever read - please do not put in any americans doing attempted english or scottish accents - we do have actors in britain!!!!!! save the americans for when they go to the "new world".
Jamie and Claire are very special characters and it will take exceptional actors to do them justice. Jamie has red hair, please make sure that he does and that it isn`t just a bad red wig!!! Harry Potter was made very true to the books - even a lot of the dialogue was as it was written in the books so we know it can be done - if the film is not going to be true to the books then please don`t bother as it will be a bitter disapointment!

nichola ward on Jan 26, 2009

121

Greetings Alex,
Your have collected a huge number of positive opinions from the female side. Very sparse response from guys. So let me tell you this guy's point of view.

I'm pushing sixty and married for over 30 years. I was introduced to the Outlander by the nurses, in my office, about three years ago. I have since read the entire series and despite Barnes & Noble's insistence on placing the novels in their romance section, they all read very well in several other categories. There are some situations that may disturb some "true men", but but in the context of movies, can be editied out without disrupting the major story line.

I feel that a movie, done with native speaking actors/actresses, would do very well on both sides of the Atlantic, and may have a good theatrical run like the Harry Potter series. I agree with Nichola Ward, American actors can wait for the episode when Jamie & Clair ship out to the west side of the pond.
Steve in Vancouver, Washington

Steve Engard on Jan 28, 2009

122

I have to agree with all the other comments….new British and Scottish actors and actresses need to be playing the roles and leave the American roles to the Americans…in only one of the comments I have read did I see mention of Rob Roy…has anyone thought of Liam Neeson for an older Jamie…

Heather on Jan 28, 2009

123

I have read all the books over time. Just finished the 6th. I was thinking, I wish HBO or Showtime would get involved in a series. I feel that a series could capture the material better then a movie. Each novel being a new season. Like the Tudors on Showtime blood, sex, action, the details of motive in character decisions. I hate the way Hollywood chops the life out a good novel.
Its hard to capture a true love in a novel to film. It went badly in the new movie twilight. Bella and Edward on film looked like they had a staring problem.
Good luck hollywood! This crowd will be waiting to see a perfect red haired scott, and a wisky eyed english woman.

bethany on Jan 29, 2009

124

I have read all the books over time. Just finished the 6th. I was thinking, I wish HBO or Showtime would get involved in a series. I feel that a series could capture the material better then a movie. Each novel being a new season. Like the Tudors on Showtime blood, sex, action, the details of motive in character decisions. I hate the way Hollywood chops the life out a good novel.
Its hard to capture a true love in a novel to film. It went badly in the new movie twilight. Bella and Edward on film looked like they had a staring problem.
Good luck hollywood! This crowd will be waiting to see a perfect red haired scott, and a wisky eyed english woman. !!!!

bethany on Jan 29, 2009

125

Ok, Hollywood. This movie has to be treated as a series. HBO, could do this correctly. If Hollywood want to do a movie it deserves to be a series as well. Something like "Lord Of The Rings"
What makes these books work like they do is simply the intelligence of Dianna Gabaldon, She has uselful degrees that taught her good reserch skills. This plus her prior writting background have given her some great writting skills.
I'm a picky reader, I want my author to get the facts right.
I won't read a "fluff" romantic story at all. Most read like spun suger.
D.gabaldon is simply very talented with getting her facts right.
Claires Abilty's with herbs are no joke. They are correct.
All of the Galic is also right on. The battles read true to history.
Its these backbones that allow Cllaire and Jamie to move freely through their time frames.
I agree with other readers who say these parts must be played by Scotch Actors or at least English.
Plus, they must be belivable in their roles. No well knowen american actors PLEASE!
I wouldn't enjoy seeing the same old actors play these importaint roles at all.
Please care for this saga.

Victoria on Jan 30, 2009

126

Dear Alex,

An importaint Fact to remember is that the Outlander series is listed as NonFiction.
This is due to the actual history and the correct useage of many true items in the books.

Victoria on Jan 30, 2009

127

I've always pictured Claire as someone similar looking to Keri Russell. Jamie is harder. I have a picture of him in my head but he doesn't look like anyone I've seen before. Maybe similar to Jonathan Rhys Meyers but a lot taller.
Anyway, can't wait for the movie; but I doubt it will be able to do the books justice.

Can't wait for the next book (September release I believe). Yay!!! Go Diana - you rock!

Kerri on Jan 30, 2009

128

Hi,

though I don't like Keira Knightley at all I think that she has the looks (if she put on 20 pounds ;)). But she's too young, isn't she?

I just wanted to share a picture with you, its Robert Pattinson and in this Picture he looks so muh like the young Jamie I have in my mind. And very attractive And I dont think that if would matter that he is 'only' 6'1 and not 6'4. I think he would be tall enough. Some workout and more food and he would be the perfect youn Jamie IMO.
So here's the picture:

http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss127…t=abc2.jpg

Lisa on Jan 31, 2009

129

ooops,link didn't work…
maybe this one

http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss127/LisaPattinson/?action=view&current=abc2.jpg

Lisa on Jan 31, 2009

130

This book and the others in this series are NOT romance novels-these books are historical fiction at its best mixed with fantasy (time travel), different aspects of religion-Catholic to "witchy" stuff-mystical- you have to read the book/books to understand-and I promise you guys-IF the movies are made like the book-you will enjoy them. Lots of battles/wars—blood There is romance mixed in BUT that is not the main thread of the books.
I read lots of books. I read your typical "romance" novels and this is NOTHING like that. So much adventure and mystery-so much going on. Just read or you can download the books on audible.com or itunes.

shana on Jan 31, 2009

131

I have always pictured Claire looking more like Melina Kanakaredes from CSI NY. She is probably too old but could pull it off. I think Claire was in her thirties (b 1918?) at the beginning of the series but looked 20 when compared to the other people from the 1700s. When they wed, Jamie thought Claire was about his age or younger. I do agree that this movie would probably be much better with actors from the UK.
http://media.pegasusnews.com/img/photos/2008/09/11/melina_kanakaredes.jpg

Michele on Jan 31, 2009

132

Its got to be totaly new faces, native country-accents. from my view point, I woun't want to see the actors from showtime's tudor production. They don't do anything for me that says Possible Highlander or Possible Claire. Perhaps in the role of Randall, but thats about it.
When The powers that be go looking for Actors, I hope, They consider that Claire is not a teen or early Adult. she has a background. She has lived a bit and been through a war already as a battlefield nurse. She's been around and is not some starry eyed child.
We need a real womanly woman who has the brains and guts to survive where ever she lands.
Sort of a loving-bring home the bacon, fry it up in the pan, while loving her man type woman.
If they don't get Claire and Jamie right there is no hope for the rest of the actors playing other roles.

To Lisa post#129 I agree! He's got a good face with a bit of mistchif in his eyes… Quite possible.
What does he sound like I wonder?

VJM on Feb 1, 2009

133

Although I loved Robert Pattinson as Edward in "Twilight," I think that is where he belongs. It would be too hard to imagine him as Jamie when he has made such a statement as Edward Cullen. But, definintely native actors-not Americans acting as Scots or Brits.

teacher lady on Feb 1, 2009

134

please,please,please,don't mess with this series of books. there is absolutely no one in hollywood who could possibly play claire or jamie. i have this picture in my mind of both claire and jamie, and i know hollywood will screw the whole thing up. there is no way a movie could possibly come close to bringing out the beauty of these books. just leave it alone,and i will keep my imagination intact, and lose myself in the wonderful world of claire and jamie that diana gabaldon has created. and no, liam neeson could not possibly play jamie

gail smith on Feb 2, 2009

135

Well, who's afraid of having their imagination destroyed simply shouldn't watch the movie. IMO a movie only adds another dimension to a book, it doesn't has to destroy the personal imagination.
And there are alot of people who want these series made into movies, me included, to see how it works on the big screen.
And isn't the production company an independent company? As far as I know they are not ”Hollywood”. And even if they were it doesn't mean that the movie will be bad. You should't judge the book from the cover.

Lisa on Feb 2, 2009

136

By the way, does anybody know about the proceedings? Spring is coming closer and there haven't been any news about the movie since october/november.

Lisa on Feb 2, 2009

137

Outlander has been optioned before; there is no guarantee that the movie will ever happen. I agree with Gail somewhat. I have not seen any actor that is even close to what Diana Gabaldon's description of Jamie is. They are either too old or not near the right size. Remember Jamie can be seen by Claire across a room by his height so any other men cast would have to be 3-4 inches shorter than Jamie. A small detail, yes, but too many novels adapted into movies have failed IMO to catch the essence of the novel. My favorite movie is Gone With The Wind but the book was not followed that closely i.e. Scarlett was not a pretty girl, Vivien Leigh was gorgeous. In the book, Scarlett has one child with each husband etc. Minute detail, yes but to some readers, detractions none the less. The same can be said for most of the movies made. I will most likely see the movie if ever made but Hollywood or independent filmmakers will be looking at the bottom line not at the loyal readers. Diana Gabaldon has no say in this venture and I think the movie may suffer because of it…no one knows these characters better than her. Outlander has been optioned not the rest of the books FYI.

Juanita on Feb 2, 2009

138

Has anyone considered Alex Kingston for Claire? I always thought of her as beautiful, her hair is long and brown. As to the colour of her eyes, I'm not sure. Did anyone see her in Mol Flanders? As for Jamie, I'm sure the highlands are full of talented young foxes who would fit the bill. There is just no one discovered yet who can play the part as I see Jamie in my mind.

Ruth on Feb 2, 2009

139

Alex, it's VERY obvious that you haven't read it, or any of the rest of the series. Catch up, guy!

Kris Edmonds on Feb 5, 2009

140

I am currently reading book 3 of the series. And I can't get enough! I have had several friends try to persuade me for years to read these novels. I don't know what I was waiting for! Jaime and Claire have a fascinating relationship. I love that Claire and Jaime save each other in so many ways, physically and emotionally. It's never one sided. They can both stand on their own as strong characters yet at the same time they grow so much stronger though each other. I don't think a 2 hour film will show this. I think the Outlander series would only work as a TV series (like the Tudors on HBO where they can stay true to the core of the book). As for all the actors mentioned, I agree that when I envision Jack Randall I think of Jason Issacs. I thought of Gerald Butler in more of the role of Dougal. As for Jaime and Claire, I think they would have to be unknowns. Jaime will be impossible to cast right. He has to be young (early 20s), very tall, strikingly handsome, and be a very versatile actor (witty, dramatic, romantic, and athletic). The interactions between Jaime and Randall are brutally intense. Only a very talented actor will be able to pull this off.
If Robert Pattenson plays Jaime, I will cry! Not a good cry… but a cry of despair…

Anne on Feb 6, 2009

141

I'm so bummed they are making a movie out of this.

I love this series so much, and a mere 2 hours can never cover book one.

Please- none of those damn Twilight kids! *gag*

Trisha on Feb 6, 2009

142

Well , as a man I can say with out any hesatation this set of story's are worth the lenthy read.

After finding the first one on the street and reading the first chapter I was hooked. What a fantastic adventure I was taken on. Suspence .YES. Thrills and chills. YES. if you like war guts and history, read the books. If you like Clive Clussler , REDA THE BOOKS. If youget by the so called romancs of the book you will love it. My other books were found in the action and adventure sections of my local book store. Best read I have had in a verry long time. I also learned some history to boot.

To think I hatted History.


Thanks Diana Gabaldon for the great READ.


Bill H.

Bill on Feb 8, 2009

143

I just looked up Gabriel Aubry since someone mentioned Diana Gabaldon said that's who Jamie looks like. All I have to say is WOW! Definitely a good choice. Cast him immediately, and if he can't act, get Sawyer from Lost. They kind of look the same to me.

I loved the one person's descriptions of the funny characters from the books. I liked some of the historical references too, like the Jewish coin dealer from Germany who told them his family went by the name of "Red Shield" since they weren't allowed surnames. When Claire asked Jamie how you say Red Shield in German, it turned out it's Rothchild. With Ms. Gabaldon's penchant for research, you know that has to be a true story.

I'm a little bummed that HBO didn't pick it up for a miniseries, but I'm very happy it's going to be made into a movie. Whether it's great or not, at least people will know the story when I mention my favorite books.

Cindy on Feb 9, 2009

144

I've always seen Sawyer from Lost (Josh Holloway) as Stephen Bonnet.

ivylass on Feb 9, 2009

145

Maybe Sawyer from the first season, but now he's such a softie I just can't picture it. I never really thought of Sawyer as Jamie, but he does look a bit like the male model the author likened to Jamie, the guy named Gabriel Aubry. Google it, the guy is hot! I just thought if that guy can't act, then Sawyer would be a good stand-in.

Cindy on Feb 9, 2009

146

I too have read and re-read these amazing books. I am also not convinced that a single movie can do these books justice. I agree a mini series on HBO or Showtime would be much more appropriate. As for who to play these roles, no question for me it would be Gerard Butler and Kate Winslet. Butler has the accent, body and most importantly the height. Jamie is quite tall and all the other actors mentioned above are under six feet. Won't do.

As for you Alex, all I can say is don't judge a book by it's so-called cover. Don't judge unless you have read. We are all challenging you to read at least the first one. I know you will be convinced after reading it and I can guarantee that you will be hooked.

Patricia on Feb 10, 2009

147

I have read EVERY book and LOVE them!! I got them from my boss and now I also have my mother, brother and sister-in-law hooked. I would pay big bucks to see them made, tastefully, into a mini-series. There's no way Jamie and Claire's story fits into a 2-3 hour movie. Oh, and guys would also love it. There is so much history involved. Someone mentioned Gerard Butler as Jamie - all I have to say is "YEAH, BABY"!!!!!!!

Angie on Feb 14, 2009

148

I'm more interested in who's directing than in who stars. Danny Boyle's my choice.

Jen on Feb 15, 2009

149

If you liked Braveheart, you will love a well made Outlander. This story could make an exceptional movie and because there is so much material, it could take place in Scotland or the America Colonies or both.

Beth on Feb 15, 2009

150

Just saw "Taken" and agree that Liam Neeson would make a great older Jamie. If make up and special effects can make Brad Pitt age from 90 to 17 (Benjamin Button), then perhaps Liam could play the younger Jamie also. I think he has the size, face and heritage for it…

Beth on Feb 15, 2009

151

James MacAvoy might be good, but too short. Really, though, this series should appeal to men as much as women if all the historical info is included in the movie(s) to the extent that it is in the books.

Also, my husband thought these books were just more 'bodice-rippers' until he went with me to see Diana Gabaldon speak about her latest book in the series, A Breath of Snow and Ashes. After she spoke, answered questions, and gave a reading from the latest, my husband said "She should be the next president!" and then decided that he'd like to read the Outlander books. We were doing a lot of road trips at that time, so he drove and I read aloud to him. We've come to the place where Jamie, Claire and the other main characters in the books are almost like real people to us. We care about them and talk about them, speculate about them and what they'll be doing next, etc. Understand: my husband is a lawyer (as am I), very analytical, likes to fix things, like toasters and cuckoo clocks and anything electronic and, and, and…. He's no goofy romantic, but he loves this story, these books, these characters. He also loves fast action movies, not romantic comedies, and he's looking forward to these books becoming movies, too, as long as it's done right!

Lisa on Feb 16, 2009

152

I had to laugh when reading the comment from a man about how many women get "glazed over" talking about Jamie. As a "gay woman" who hasn't an ounce of patience for a bodice-ripper/happy ever after romance, I got hooked on these books without being inclined to glaze or sigh over Jamie. The audiobook is superb.

It's the story, the writing, the characterization, the settings, the plot… sometimes they are gory and grim, but all in the service of the story. One scene of violent physical abuse in Outlander almost turned me off the book, but it was well worth staying with the book to see how the people involved eventually worked it out, and how one later on came to understand something about another's action when there was more information available. That's what's lacking in most books, I think - the characters rarely work out the difficult material, or come to understand one another and themselves in different ways over time. When Gabaldon sets up a violent situation, she works it out in complex ways that add dimensions to the characters rather than didactically saying "this character is like x or thinks y".

99% of my recreational books are from the mystery/suspense/thriller genre, and I recommend this highly to others who like that genre. This book defies the pigeonholing preferred by marketers. As a result, it's miraculous that the first one ever made it to print.

holly on Feb 17, 2009

153

Hello, I am currently involved in a discussion in the Amazon historical romance community and Outlander has been a popular contender for best historical romance ever read, one thing led to another and inquiries were made about if it was a movie or not and then I found this discussion so now I really really really really want to read this book and can't wait to start envisioning who I think should be in it. But I like the suggestion that it be an HBO series so that more can be delved into.

Scarlett on Feb 17, 2009

154

I've always thought that Liam Neeson should play Dougal. He's just got that look of Dougal! As for Jamie I think that Gerard Butler is a leading contender, Jack Randall (Boo Hiss!!) The Tudors fella can't remember his name, Lord John Grey Orlando Bloom Claire I think Kate Winselt's got the strength of character tough but gentle. Can't wait for the new book - I'm reading and re-reading the whole series for the umpteenth time.

Belfast Sheila on Feb 19, 2009

155

I don't understand how you can say you never read the books and yet want to make a movie from them. You cannot capture everything on film unless you actually know what the books are about. It's not just romance. I've read the books twice and will probably re read them again until book 7 and 8 come out. Making a movie of this series of books might not work. Too much would have to be removed to fit the time line of a possible 3 hr movie. I say make it a series. If you decide to make it into a movie then you need to read the books. Although the movie would probably be a big disappointment because so much would be left out. I have to agree that Liam Neeson would make a fantastic older Jamie. Henry Ian Cusick also could play Jamie from the series LOST. Or Josh Holloway from LOST also. I have trouble reading, but when I got a hold of these books I could not put them down. I read them on the bus on the way to work, on my lunch breaks and breaks. I cried and laughed while many people looked on while I was on the bus. I've never enjoyed books until now. I never had the attention span to sit long enough to read them and would give up and put the books away, but these books I would have no trouble reading a third time. Please do justice to these books if you make a movie or a series from them.

Theresa from Canada on Feb 20, 2009

156

I enjoyed the entire series…and my husband read them as well. There is an unbelievable love story contained in the books, but the historic aspects make them great. I am apprehensive to see them made into a movie. I was upset with the Lord of the Rings trilogy because the things that I think are important to the plot are not always important to the screenwriter and/or the producer.

Amanda on Feb 20, 2009

157

Does anyone have any recent news about "our" Outlander Movie.
Does anyone have any tidbits of news. If someone knows something
about it that is factual, I know the rest of us want to hear it!

VJM on Feb 20, 2009

158

Wow, not sure if I was insulted or encouraged. Still looking forward to reading Outlander but sticking to other forums. Hope it all goes how everyone would like.

Scarlett on Feb 20, 2009

159

If ypu are refering to me, I can assure you my comment has nothing to do with yours or anyone's individual comments. The "our" outander simply refers to everyone who loves the Outlander series.
As far as asking for tidbits of news. That's because the Adam guy says its going to be made,
You Tube has selected cuts which some are saying come from the movie. Yet, we still don't really know much about who is playing which roles for sure. I was just asking if anyone knew any more details. Reading this list is heart-warming for me because Its good to see so many others who love Dianna's work as much as I do.
My message did not refer to yours.
However, my husband loves the LOTR books about the movie he just says "well it would be tough for anyone to put LOTR on film.
I sorta feel the same about Outlander. The best we can hope for would truly be a series.

Peace and good will to you.

VJM on Feb 20, 2009

160

i have just watched P.S I love u with Gerard Butler - and having also watched him in in 300 and rocknrolla i can honestly say that i think he would be a perfect jamie, ok he doesn`t have the perfect bone structure or the slanting eye, but he does have the height and the build and he can play sentiment, emotional, caring, threatening, hard - nut characters as well - al of these things are what makes Jamie Fraser such an interesting and captivating attractive character to read - he is also scottish which is absolutely essential!!! (no dodgy accents please!) as for claire i have yet to see someone that wold do her justice - kate winslet maybe - rachel weisz definitely not! no offence to her but i just don`t see it myself, now if they wanted an additional love interest for jamie - one with red hair like his maybe, then i would be perfect - ha ha!!!

nichola ward on Feb 22, 2009

161

Oh I totally agree with Kate Winslet as Claire. And I think Dougray Scott could play either Dougal or Colum McKenzie. I have seen many posts that say that Kate Beckinsale would make a good Claire, but she is too thin. Claire was a "curvy" woman, and Jamie often mentioned how much he loved her "nice wide behind". Lord John Grey was only a boy of 16 when he first met Jamie, but he grew along with the story, so it would have to be someone who is young, but could be aged with makeup. What about Michele Phieffer for the "witch" Roger Mac's mother… and Scarlett Johannsen as Leoghaire… I hadn't really considered many of these, but now I am intrigued! I have been planning to re-read the series again, now I will have to see who I come up with for the characters! I'VE GOT IT! I can play the part of Claire! LOL! (I wish…)

Rita on Feb 22, 2009

162

I just thought of someone else for Claire. Her name is Claire Forlani and she was the medical examiner in the first few seeasons of CSI:NY and also plays Sean Connery's daughter in The Rock…

Melissa on Feb 22, 2009

163

I absolutely love this series, and I'm glad to see everybody else loves it too! I was on IMDB and I typed in Outlander and that sci-fi Viking film that came out recently was listed, but there was also another Outlander option that said it was coming out in 2011. I dunno if it's Diana Gabaldon's Outlander or just another one, but you have to have IMDB pro to look at it further, and alas, I do not.

Julie on Feb 23, 2009

164

Anyone who has had the pleasure of watching great stories coming to life on screen (small or big) such as Rome or Deadwood, Braveheart or Rob Roy will love this series and I have high hopes for the film. It is a story that cannot be pigeonholed into one genre, which is why it is a bit misleading to say its a romance, sci-fi, historical fiction, action/adventure…that's because it is all of them! Lots of sex, violence, political intrigue, and an exciting historical backdrop with jarring dialog…the series defies convention and I wait with bated breath for the film adaptation.

Jen on Feb 24, 2009

165

Having just started reading the series with Outlander, the images of how I see Claire and Jamie are fresh for me. But I can honestly say that as soon as Jamie was described and spoke a few lines (well written dialect–you can hear these characters talking in their brogue or accent or whatever you call it), I immediately thought of Kevin McKidd. He is Scottish, has the correct build (though not as tall at 6'1"), right complexion, and could certainly fight convincingly (just watch Rome if in doubt). I don't think he's classically attractive, but he is still appealing, which is more how I read Jamie. Cast next to a shorter than 5'6" actress to play Claire, he would be plenty imposing. Additionally, he is a few years younger than Gerard Butler, which puts him a bit closer to Jamie's age. I laugh/cringe at the thought of Rob Pattinson playing this formidable character–so completely different from his vampire Edward Cullen, who he plays well.

As for Claire, it's much more difficult to identify someone who has her physical attributes (the ones that can't be faked convincingly–Keira Knightly HAH!) and could be believably complex on screen. I don't think Rachel Weisz is a bad suggestion, but I would be totally okay with someone new. Sadly, I know the movie(s) will never be as good as the book(s), but it's still fun to see a great story on the screen. I haven't even finished the first book, but I'm already looking forward to many more weeks of reading this series!

Karen on Feb 24, 2009

166

I totaly agree with you Karen. I wish you lots of wonderful adventures as you read the Outlander series. order or pick up somewhere the Outlander Companion just as soon as you can. It really helps to have the O.C. near by as your reading through the Series. The O.C is sort of a enyclopida for all things Outlandish

VJM on Feb 24, 2009

167

OOPs I hit a wrong key to have my message sent before I was really done writting.
I just wanted to add that I agree with Kevin Mc Kidd being a fine choice for Jamie. He is at an age where a little time in the Make-up chair could make him look very young or old. His Body is just right, Which we know from watching ROME on HBO. I bleive his acting skills are top knoch. He is now playing a E.R Doctor on Gray's Anatomy His range as an actor knows no bounds.
Clair, Oh, Clair… They have to get her done perfeclty since the whole project hinges on her.
Sharp, smart glowing personality. Able to comfort those in need as well as fight off evil doers.
Physicaly warm and round. Claire is a very speical woman and her daughter Breianna has gifts from both her parents. Lets not forget Breianna.

VJM on Feb 24, 2009

168

The movie option is for "Outlander" only so there would be no Brianna as of yet. I personally cant see Kevin McKidd as Jamie but that being said, if the actor who plays Jamie is 6'1 then the majority of the other male actors would have to be around 5'9-5'10 since Claire can always spot Jamie in a crowd because he is so much taller than most men of the time. These minute details are things that will most likely not be considered and that is why I am a little leery about the making of the movie but it has been optioned before and nothing came of it. I myself have yet to think of an actor or actress that would come close to what I think Jamie and Claire look like. The majority of actors mentioned are waay too old IMO. I finally saw a picture of Robert Pattinson and I personally dont think he would be anywhere near what Jamie would look like. Either way many will be disappointed by the producers choices and then this lovely discussion can continue.

Juanita on Feb 24, 2009

169

The guy from Grey's Anatomy is named Kevin McKidd….he's very big, very Scottish, and he was my first thought for Jamie too.REDA THE BOOKS GUYS! you might like it.

Susan on Feb 25, 2009

170

The guy from Grey's Anatomy is named Kevin McKidd….he's very big, very Scottish, and he was my first thought for Jamie too.READ THE BOOKS GUYS! you might like it.

Susan on Feb 25, 2009

171

I'm a straight guy (no prejudice whatsoever of any sort, though), no soppy stories fan (believe me), way into middle-age (no crises up to now), and… I love this series. Enjoyable blend of historical research, romance, and action, with superb notes of style. pace, and descriptive technique. Diana Gabaldon is awesome !! I REALLY think no one should bash it before reading it. BTW, I was surprised to know she's a true scientist in quantitative ecology, complete with a post-doctoral degree and a period as editor of a scientific magazine in her curriculum. How can a single person manage to do so many things ?????

Osmar on Feb 26, 2009

172

Oh, and I was very glad to know that a movie may be coming along.

Osmar on Feb 26, 2009

173

Alex,

I've been following the posts on this website for better than 5 months now, everytime someone posts here I get it directly to my home email. What I really want to know at this juncture is…. what is happening? Are you making the movie or what? I'd like to know so that if you aren't…. then I can let it go, and if you are…. I can anxiously await the premier. It's the not knowing that's killing me. You have the comments, advice and anticipation of a good 150 fans (some have posted more than once), We are all sitting on the edge of our seats waiting for confirmation. Is there any chance we might get that anytime soon? I'm beginning to feel you've been teasing us and it just isn't right!

Thank you for your time,
Rachel

Rachel on Feb 26, 2009

174

To Beth and those who read this post.
Yes, your right. If we liked Braveheart we will like this production. Also, look to the stars in 2011 theaters…hopefully.
I think considering that I really liked Braveheart (with excptions on dress etc.) I am going to like Outlander. The Powers that be should be trusted fairly well to follow the Outlander saga.

VJM on Feb 26, 2009

175

Alex,

If you remain unconvinced, let me explain.

The Superbowl is men playing ball on the grass.
The Shelby Cobra is a sub-compact car.
Notre Dame is a church.
Kobe beef is dead cow.
The pyramids at Giza are a cemetery.
The Outlander is a romance novel.

lkwl on Feb 27, 2009

176

OUTLANDER IS SOOOO MUCH MORE THAN A ROMANCE NOVEL…… Romance is just ONE of the MANY different genre's that this book falls under!

Rachel on Feb 27, 2009

177

Iklw have you actually read the book because i`m damn sure that my idea of romanc is not being attacekd in the woods by a perverted warped individual - nor is it being taken against my will by a bunch of men!!!!!

obviously you have different ideas to me - mm strange.

oh and by the way,sarcastic "wit" about these books will not be well received!!!!

nichola ward on Feb 27, 2009

178

Ikwl have you actually read the book because i`m damn sure that my idea of romanc is not being attacekd in the woods by a perverted warped individual - nor is it being taken against my will by a bunch of men!!!!!

obviously you have different ideas to me - mm strange.

oh and by the way,sarcastic "wit" about these books will not be well received!!!!

nichola ward on Feb 27, 2009

179

Ikwl,

I agree with Nichola, that kind of comment will not be well received! These books have amazing plot and character development. You need to stop trying to put everything in a neat little box, Outlander does not fit into a box. It stands on its own. It has so much in it you cannot lable it just one thing.

Melinda on Feb 27, 2009

180

ok everybody, i took LKWL's comment to mean that its not just a romance novel…the superbowl is not just guys playing on the grass, notre dame is not just a church, the pyramids are not just a cemetary, they are all so much more. yes they may technically be classified as such but that doesn't even come close to describing all the things they mean and all the intricate parts that make them up. Just like outlander. yes, it may sometimes be classified as "romance" but to do so is to take away all the other parts of it and everything else it stands for.

Melissa on Feb 27, 2009

181

Currently into my second reading of the Outlander series, anxiously awaiting "Echos" this fall (hoping!!) Pleased to see that there may actually be a visual media for all the fans out here & even more encouraged to see that someone who worked on Braveheart and Pearl Harbor is on the project. I have to say that the visual writings in the book, expanding on history, truely gave an honest feel to the book and allowed me to see not only the story but what it may have actually felt like to someone who was out-placed (Claire). I found Braveheart to not only be a movie felt, but also seen by its beautiful cinematography of the Highlands (I know I enjoyed the landscapes in LOTR!)…I can only hope that they do as wonderful a job with Outlander!

I found the books very broad (in an excellent way!) in emotional experience; enjoying the storyline and the inclusion of the variety of people, even if they seemed minor, still had an impact to the entire story. This is, afterall, what life and history tend to involve.

I know my only regret in it being made a movie, is that so much will need to be cut from the story to keep it down to the required time (and yes! Even just to do one book at a time into a movie!) If there are any strings to be pulled, would LOVE to see it done as a HBO or Showtime mini-series….lots of episodes(!!!) as they have done with Rome and Tudors. I will refrain from my own opinions of who should play the parts (look at LOTR, Braveheart and Pearl…can you imagine anyone else playing those key roles as well??). They will never look quite as I envision them, but with the people I see already placed on the project, I am sure my vision will adapt.

Linda on Feb 27, 2009

182

For those of you awaiting "An Echo in the Bone"…. Release date is September 22, 2009

RTS on Feb 27, 2009

183

According to Diana Gabaldon's website, she does not know when the book will be published. Amazon is reporting September but she says she would certainly know before them so we will have to see.

Juanita on Feb 27, 2009

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Melissa - I'm so glad to see that SOMEBODY understood the irony in my comment. Thank you. LOL!

OK, for the rest of you: Of course I have read them. Put on your thinking caps, kids. Read Melissa's comment, #180, and stop being so darned touchy. Lighten up, readers. We're just chatting about a book here. Yikes.

lkwl on Feb 27, 2009

185

Victoria - comment 126

As much as I love this series, they are indeed fiction. That's not a criticism on my part. I think these are wonderful books. It's just that even the Library of Congress categorizes them as fiction.

Here is a link to the Library of Congress for Outlander:
http://catalog.loc.gov/cgi-bin/Pwebrecon.cgi?BBRecID=15044896&v3=1&SEQ=20090227205836&PID=2VziD21wKedif5DJPlY9oqiN9VJ

lkwl on Feb 27, 2009

186

In case you have trouble with the Library of Congress link, here's how Outlander is categorized there:

Subjects: Time travel –Fiction.
Culloden, Battle of, Scotland, 1746 –Fiction.
Jacobite Rebellion, 1745-1746 –Fiction.
Scotland –History –18th century –Fiction.
Form/Genre: Historical fiction. gsafd
Fantastic fiction. gsafd
War stories. gsafd

lkwl on Feb 27, 2009

187

I LOVE, LOVE these books. I have read each of them many times and am very excited to hear Outlander may become a movie, but they are going to have to be very careful not to screw it up. It is a long, very detailed book, and I am afraid to much will be cut out of the movie.
Also, I believe they should not use any well known actors. I think they should be unknowns, so I personally would not be placing them, in my head, in previous roles. I would prefer Claire and Jamie to be completely their own. I have read these books so many times they have become like family and have them pictured as to how I think they look, and a well known actor would not fit the bill.

Jamie on Feb 28, 2009

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*********************************OUTLANDER MOVIE INFO*****************************
LETS GET THIS MOVIE MADE PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!!
I dug on the net till I found the right information thru Varity's October 29th 2008 issue.

I followed that with asking Dianna's Secatary Janice if it was alright to place this info in a group setting.
She said yes, and that we should write to Essental Ent. if we wanted the Movie to be made since they have so far just optioned it.

Essental Ent. says they will start production in the spring. Perhaps we can let them know what a very special project they have and that its A very much wanted movie. They would be crazy not to make it. I can see it doing very, very well at the Box office.
Assuming that they do make the movie it would have a 2011 release.
Here is the contact information:
The Production Company is ESSENTIAL-ENT.Com located at 9000 Sunset Blvd 600 Los Angeles Ca.
The guy in charge of development is Neil Kaplin and the President is James Kohlberg.

*Remember Janice said we should work to make sure the Company knows WE WANT THE MOVIE MADE!!!

I hope this message is copied into all aother Outlander forums around the world.

Movie Information on Feb 28, 2009

189

I was never much of a reader until one day I was bored at my grandmothers house and picked up the book by Diana called Outlander. I read the first book about 16 years ago and never finished the second book. I always read them at my grandmothers house while visiting her, and she would not part from them. She died and the two books she had were lost. At that time Diana had only written three of her now six book series. For a while I had forgotten about the books. Until recently. I started to have time to read again. I remembered the story I read so long ago, but not the title or author. I asked my mother, who does nothing but read, but she could not recall the book. She told me my grandmother always read romance novels, by authors such as Nora Roberts. I at first did not think of this book as a romance novel, and quickly discarded the idea. I'll never find it again, I thought. For 10 years I have wanted to find this book. About 1 year ago I waited on a man reading a book at the resturant I work in and talked to him about the book I had read so long ago. To my incredible suprise he knew of the book. But he could not remember the title or the author except the last name started with G. At this point I started asking anyone who read. Two weeks ago I discovered a women reading Nora Roberts, and remembering my mothers words about authors my grandmother read I told her about the book I was looking for. She said she had not read the book personally but new her husband had. She called her husband for me and he gave me the authors name. The second I got home I looked her up on my computer, and there was my book. The #1 bestselling romance novel of all time. And It took, (two men) to help me find it again. Now tell me men will not enjoy the movie. I could only find men who read the book. i am currently enjoying the acclaimed series. PS Rachel Weis should Play Claire and the Randalls should all have Dark eyes. And Jaimie should not have facial hair the entire movie, only in the beginning to look rough. Not mean. He needs to look gentle.

cindy sharp on Mar 4, 2009

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Bravo! I enjoyed your story. It was so good you read Outlander at your Grandmothers and were finnaly able to re-find them again. The series will be a connection for you:)
I started reading the books when Outlander was out as a new book. Now, my Son who was just a baby at that time, has a daughter. That makes me a first time Grandma, waiting on the next book, and the first movie in the series.

Movie Information on Mar 6, 2009

191

I was introduced to the Outlander series years ago, and absolutely fell in love with it! My girlfriend at the time and I would read them, and I had a blast using different accents to bring the book more to life. I never saw the series as a 'romance' novel. I was struck by the history, and would try to picture in my mind the characters and places. I have never been able to put any living person to Jamie, but have always seen Claire as Jane Seymour. Don't know if she could pull off the younger Claire (well, I know she could, but would it be believable in a movie), but I still think she could do well as the series moves on. I'm looking forward to seeing it on the big screen, but agree to do it justice, the film makers need to take their time, cast it right, and spend the money needed to ensure success.

TJaime on Mar 9, 2009

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I totally agree about Jane Seymour for the part of Claire. I had always pictured her in that part, with some make-up and hair "adjustments" that is. Very good idea!

Sally on Mar 9, 2009

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Jane Seymour?????????????? Maybe for the last movie in the series. She is far too old.

RVM on Mar 9, 2009

194

It boggles my mind how much importance y'all place on casting. Directing's the thing with movies, just like writing is the thing with books. A movie poster does not a movie make any more than a character sketch makes a book. Even if you had the perfect script and perfect actors and actresses–they embody every last detail you've ever imagined– if you get a director that can't match Gabaldon's pace or juggle her story arcs, you will wind up with an unwatchable movie and a nice poster– and we've already got that on the front of the books.

Jen on Mar 10, 2009

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Jen: Sorry if it upsets you that a LOT of us here care about WHO portrays the characters in this wonderful saga. It is our perogative to hope that they are done well by the dirctors etc. No matter how the directing etc is done, if the actors fall flat, the story does as well. Think about it before you yell at people here who care very much how the actors look and "act". No one wants to see soap opera "stars" in these parts, so we care very,very much WHO plays the parts. ok?

Sally on Mar 10, 2009

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..and yes,RVM, JANE SEYMOUR would be perfect….after all, Claire is NOT a teenager in this saga, but a grown women even in at the outset, she is a nurse, a wife and fully adult. As for making her look younger than her present age, makeup artists can work wonders….think of "The Joker" and other fantastic art works in the movies. Yes, to Jane Seymour! But, in the final analysis, none of our input will matter, the makers of this saga if it is ever done will do as they please and we either like it, hate it, refuse to watch it, are disappointed when (not if) all of the characters to live up to our individual visions we already have in our minds, or just decide to accept it knowing it can never,ever be as good as Diana wrote it. Agreed?

Sally on Mar 10, 2009

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Calm down Sally, I'm not a Seymour fan.
I sort of see Claire possibley looking something like Kate Walsh.
Kate is at a perfect in-between age. She could play Claire for a very long time.
Thats a strong advantage since we are looking at a series of movies over the next several years.
I'm not even sure if Jane S. is still doing movies. Is she? Im only aware of her short commercial for Zales being out currently.

So far I'm quite pleased with Essental Entertainment's choices. T
hey have put Outlander on to the "fast Track" thats great news for us die hard Outlander fans.
The writters they annouced are Dianna Gabaldon, (Herself) and Randlall Wallace.
We all adore Dianna so nothing need to be said, She is our Gold Standard.
We can also be very proud E.E. selected Mr. Wallace as well.
Wallace did Braveheart for the screen as well as the Rose and other very well done movies.
He's a top writter for sceenplays.
WHo ever ends up on the Director's list and the actor's list I am sure Essental Entertainment will select those who are very well quailifed and perfect for the Jobs.

RVM on Mar 10, 2009

198

http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&q=JANE+SEYMOUR&btnG=Search+Images&gbv=2

Personally, I believe a lot of people going to the above link and also to her website and seeing the very,very long list of her accomplishments would agree that she would be a very good choice to play Claire….at ALL ages.

My uncle produced some of her work, including the very long running "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman", which brought her to mind for the role of Claire, IMHO.

Sally on Mar 10, 2009

199

I checked out images of Kate Walsh, and her looks are very close to Jane Seymour's, but her filmography is pretty skinny…..lots of bit parts and tv stuff, but not much in the way of anything memorable or in full length movies…this makes it difficult for me to voice an opinion on her acting abilities. I never heard of her at all, so had to google her name. Again, her looks would fit, but how about her ability to handle Claire? I refrain from making any comments about that as I never saw her before.

Sally on Mar 10, 2009

200

I could see Jane Seymour as an older Claire. The younger pictures of her look like she would make a good Claire, but I think she is too old to pull off the younger Claire in Outlander now.

Julie on Mar 11, 2009

201

Hi Sally and everyone,

Kate Walsh is a very intresting actress, As far as I know she started her Televison Carrier on Gray's Anatomy, Then the powers that be gave her a "Spin-Off show called Private Pratice. She is That Good.
The shows go back to back Thurs. nights on NBC.
The two shows have done cross-overs since charaters from both shows "know" each other.

Kate is a powerful actress able to be very convencing in what ever she is doing. She's young but by no means too young. Shes an adult whth a long carrier to look foward too.
Since Outlander is hopefully going to be a series, They are going to want a commentment from the person who plays Clare and the Actor who plays Jamie. Also those who's roles are also pivital to the story.
Anyway, Truthfully, I see them going with someone like Kate, but, Perhaps a total unknowen with some of the quailtys You see in Jane which I see in Kate

RVM on Mar 11, 2009

202

Have read and loved all the books in this series. I’ve been a bookworm all my life and Jamie and Claire are two of my all-time favorite fictional characters. I think Jamie is going to be harder to cast than Claire. At first I pictured Liam Neeson but he’s too old for it now as is Gerard Butler, yummy as he is. James McAvoy is a darling boy but too short. Kevin McKidd certainly should have a role in it somewhere but he’s not Jamie to me. They may not can limit themselves to a Scottish actor in their search for a perfect Jamie. I’m thinking Alexandar Skarsgard. He’s Swedish, but he without a doubt had the accent right in HBO’s Generation Kill and True Blood. He has the height, the looks, the right age, the charisma and certainly the acting chops to use a touch of Scottish accent. You don’t want the accent to be too heavy, anyway. But I wish HBO would do it as a series. If they try to cram too much from all the books into one movie, it could ruin the whole thing.

BeeJay on Mar 12, 2009

203

just looked up Alexander Skarsgard as i had never heard of him - he definitely has the physique and the height and with the right make-up and wardrobe could be a contender - noboy is ever going to be exactly perefect - as much beacuse we will all have slightly different ideas of what jamie looks like if anything - i have to say as gorgeous as gerard butler is this guy looks more like the jamie i my head than he does.

Claire needs to be played by me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ha ha

nichola ward on Mar 13, 2009

204

I have always thought Kate Winslet as Claire- beautiful, fiesty, and curvy- all think of all those commnets Jamie makes about Claire's bum…The Jaimie character is harder to envision- someone like Hayden Christiansen- whoever it is has to be at least 6'3" in real life- and Hayden showed he can certainly wield a sword! I remember reading an interview woth Diana years ago and she waid she envisioned Liam Neeson but I think he is too old at this point- and the age difference between Winslet and Christiansen is just about right. Oh I can hardly wait! I have loved these books since I picked up "Outlander" back in 1992.

Kathy Reilly on Mar 13, 2009

205

Kathy, I so agree with you and Diana about Lliam Neeson as a very good potential Jamie. Everyone seems so concerned about the "age" thing. These characters of Diana's are TIMELESS, AGELESS, how can we pigeon-hole them into this slot or that? With the ability today of make-up artists, time and age change with the flick of a brush. The ability of an actor/actress to put passion and feeling into the part they play, to make us believe what we are seeing is the secret to success of bringing these fantastic character to life. Lliam Neeson would so much fill that bill. Another choice of talent as well as ability to take on the brogue would be Mel Gibson, who has been able to bring to life so many characters and could pull this off as well.
As for Claire, the talent to "become" Claire is a challenge that not very many actresses can pull off, and the field is small. I like Kate Winslet, as well as Jane Seyour. But, I am sure that there are a few "foreign" actors who I am not familiar with who may well qualify as well. Time will tell.

The fact that even Diana considers Lliam Neeson is a clue to how she sees Jamie, isn't it?

Sally on Mar 13, 2009

206

I hadn’t thought of Kate Winslet for Claire until reading some of these posts and now I can’t get her out of my thoughts as definitely being one of the best choices and not just because of her looks. Claire had a serene calmness at her center that enabled her to deal with the whammy kind of shock that being transported back in time would have on most people. I think Winslet could portray that admirably and she’s English, like Claire. Another possibility is an actress that I think is one of the most beautiful in films and can project that same serenity is Diane Lane, although she is around 40 now and may be too old. I’ve forgotten the precise ages in Outland but I’m thinking Jamie was around 24 and Claire about 5 years older, although I may be off on those numbers. If they’re true to Outlander, there’s an awful lot of story to film and it’s going to end with everyone wanting a sequel, so they need to start with actors young enough to be able to carry on during a second movie a few years down the road. At least I hope there will be a sequel.

After seeing him as Rob Roy, it’s so natural to think of Liam Neeson (Irish) as the ultimate Scottish warrior like Jamie, both of them being Celts. I’m just worried about trying to make him look 25. Even with all the technology, it’s easier to age actors than to “young” them without too heavy a make up job. I keep remembering Jamie as a mid-twenties virgin when he and Claire married, although I must say he caught on quickly and very well, indeed. A fast learner, our Jamie.

But I also think it’s imperative that the part is played by someone tall. There is so much made of Jamie’s impressive size throughout the series of books that, although they’re never going to find someone who totally fits everyone’s ideal of Jamie, I think the actor’s height is a very important factor, which is another reason that made me think of Alexander Skarsgard, who is 6’4”.

BeeJay on Mar 13, 2009

207

I hadn’t thought of Kate Winslet for Claire until reading some of these posts and now I can’t get her out of my thoughts as definitely being the best and not just because of her looks. Claire had a serene calmness at her center that enabled her to deal with the whammy kind of shock that being transported back in time would have on most people. I think Winslet could portray that admirably and she’s English, like Claire. Another possibility is an actress that I think is one of the most beautiful in films and can project that same serenity is Diane Lane, although she is around 40 now and may be too old. I’ve forgotten the precise ages in Outland but I’m thinking Jamie was around 24 and Claire about 5 years older, although I may be off on those numbers. If they’re true to Outlander, there’s an awful lot of story to film and it’s going to end with everyone wanting a sequel, so they need to start with actors young enough to be able to carry on during a second movie a few years down the road. At least I hope there would be a sequel.

After seeing him as Rob Roy, it’s so natural to think of Liam Neeson (Irish) as the ultimate Scottish warrior like Jamie, both of them being Celts. I’m just worried about trying to make him look 25. Even with all the technology, it’s easier to age actors than to “young” them without too heavy a make up job. I keep remembering Jamie as a mid-twenties virgin when he and Claire married, although I must say he caught on quickly and very well, indeed. A fast learner, our Jamie.

But I also think it’s imperative that the part is played by someone tall. There is so much made of Jamie’s impressive physique throughout the series of books that, although they’re never going to find someone who totally fits everyone’s ideal of Jamie, I think the actor’s height is a very important factor, which is another reason that made me think of Alexander Skarsgard, who is 6’4”. There is someone else who flitted through my mind. Tohmah Penikett. He’s on the new Dollhouse series and on the closing Battlestar Galactica. Very tall. Very good looking. The right age. Fantastic cheekbones. Not sure I can see him with shoulder length red hair, though. In this picture he’s not standing on a box: is actually that much taller than those around him. http://www.imdb.com/media/rm1119324928/nm0671886

BeeJay on Mar 13, 2009

208

I apologize profusely to everyone for the double posting of 207 and 208! Don't how I goofed and don't know how to take 207 off, which I'd like to do. If anyone knows, please let me know.

BeeJay on Mar 13, 2009

209

Its very strange to me that people keep on mentioning a 57 year old man playing a 23 year old. Liam Neeson, though he may be able to play an older Jamie, could not pull off a 23 year old strapping young man. No matter how much make up is put on him, it will ruin it for anyone going to see the movie. These characters are around my age, and I could never see a man older than my father playing the role of someone my boyfriend's age. Think of how Diana describes Jamie with his muscular build and smooth skin. No 57 year old can look like that unless they computer enhance it which always looks fake and would completely ruin the movie! It's one thing to say you envision Jamie and Claire as having characteristics or appearances of these older actors and actresses (which I completely understand and agree with), but another thing to say you want 50 and 60 year olds to play a 23 and 28 year old (who is mistaken as younger than 28 by most of the other characters). That is just crazy! Maybe back in the days of their youth liam neeson and jane seymour would have been perfect, but there are people who fit the part way better that can be found now. I have yet to see a movie cast a middle aged person as a very young adult and have them actually appear believeable (with the one exception being Moaning Myrtle in Harry Potter, but as it was a ghost, it can't be compared to real people).

Melissa on Mar 13, 2009

210

P.S. we are "pigeon-holeing" them into slots that Diana herself put in her books…namely a 23 year old virgin, not a 57 year old.

and yes they are timeless, but that doesn't mean we should get a grandpa to play a 23 year old!!!!! and no 57 year old, no matter how good of an actor they are will make me believe he is my age…that is just gross. The point of a movie is not to make me work hard at believing the character is who they are supposed to be portraying…

and yes Diana may see Jamie as Liam Neeson-like but she herself said that Gerard Butler at 40 was too old to play Jamie in a movie…therefore Liam Neeson at 57 is way way too old

Melissa on Mar 13, 2009

211

Well, after months of monitoring this website, which started out with Alex's curiosity about these wonderful books and the potential for a movie made from them. It has since then deteriorated to petty squabbles about who plays whom and who looks like Jamie,Claire etc etc. Well, folks, these are FICTIONAL characters, and we each love and picture them in our mind's eye as to how they looked,acted and felt, and NO ONE, EVER is going to match up to ANY of our expectations. There are NO actors/actresses who possess the qualities of these FICTIONAL characters we love so well. Is that agreed? That said, I am leaving this board and the ongoing yammering about something NO ONE ON THIS SITE has ANY CONTROL OVER. Our differences are respected and our input was read by everyone and immediately forgotten, unlike the wonderful saga that has come from Diana's imagination. Jamie and Claire lived in her IMAGINATION and then in ours. Let them live there,and enjoy how we each see them, because if/when they do come to the "big screen", I can guarantee that NONE OF US will be content with the choices that will be made by those in control. Even the story will not, in fact CANNOT live up to what we read. We WILL be disappointed, but perhaps we can still enjoy the ride.
Live with it.


Best wishes to all.

Sally on Mar 13, 2009

212

We All are just having fun here. Trading ideas and Enjoying the dream of seeing our Favorite books come to life on the screen. Thats all we are doing. lets all just have fun.

Tonight, I watched "Castels "on ABC the network tv channel. ANd OH MY GOODNESS!
I finally have a suggestion for the group about who should play Jamie!
I don't think I have had a male suggestion befoe. But, Would you all take a look at Nathaniel Fillion.
he is the new star male lead on Castels. Its a new show they are saying it is geared to be like Moonlighting or the Rockford files.
Nathaniel has played some really good roles but, minor programs and movies over the years He was the Captian on the SERNITY movie. that was based on the show FIREFLY and he did the cult-underground internet hit Dr. Horribble's sing-a-Long. If you've seen that you know Nathaniel Can really act, sing and dance. Not that Jamie does but Its good to have a talented actor.
Nathaniel has many perfect quailtys for the Jamie role. He has eyes that show alittle devil in a sweet look. He has a medium build, He has done Great fighting sceanes before as well as working well with women actors. HE might be the perfect "almost unknowen Actor" for the role.

V J M (vickie) on Mar 14, 2009

213

I could see Kate Winslet as Clare. She is supposed to be quite striking, but several time in the books her "full bottom" is referenced, so I don't think a wispy girl would really cut it.

Catherine on Mar 17, 2009

214

The only college in North America that offers degrees in the Gaelic language can be found in Nova Scotia, Canada, the gateway for a large proportion of Scottish Highlanders who emigrated to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries. It's St. Francis Xavier University, SFX, a Catholic U.

Everyone is writing about the stars of an Outlander movie, but at SFX you'll find movie extras of authentic Scottish physical types at college student wages and enthusiasm, with Gaelic-language voice coaches too.

Antigonish, N.S., the home of SFX U. also has annual Highland Games, so SFX has been involved with the Scottish culture for many decades.

If you want to see what we Highlanders look like, Cape Breton is where you'll find us, those of us who didn't move to the US after the Great Depression, or during WW II to work in US war plants.

Some of Canada's Scottish Catholic Highlanders intermarried with French Catholic Acadians, those who somehow avoided being deported down the Mississippi to Louisiana, therefore Canadian Highlanders are often fine-boned and petite. Pretty too!

Carolyn Jane Gillis on Mar 17, 2009

215

Alex-just do yourself a favor and read Outlander. All the other responses above say it all!

Nancy M. Daniel on Mar 18, 2009

216

Oh yes, while I was reading above comments to my husband (he loved the juicy sensual parts of the books-I have them all…) he said they'll probably get Madonna or Tom Cruise to be the lead actors….Hollywood never chooses the lead parts correctly…..

Nancy M. Daniel on Mar 18, 2009

217

Carolyn, nothing would be more billant than to Film in the Canadian Island region or Newfoundland. The Gaelic speaking Students would add a bonus to the film. I hope Ent. has this idea too.
One of my favortie trips was up the St. Lawrence Seaway through the Islands and back through
Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. I wish I could speak Gaelic! I wish my Scottish Father had learned Gaelic while growing up. Sadly, the family didn't preserve the old Gaelic and tryed to blend in to the new country. My ancestors came over from Scotland during the late 1870's when nearly all the cattle in Scotland died from a disease.

Toria on Mar 18, 2009

218

Oh, let's not spoil even one of these books by turning them into film! This is a little off-topic, but did anyone ever read the Dune series and then go to see the film when it came out? What a disappointment! You just can't bring a book of Outlander's scope to the screen (anymore than they could with Dune) — too much would be lost.

BTW my husband got hooked on this series through an audiobook when we took a driving vacation from the northeast to Louisiana, Florida, and back - narrator Davina Porter is fabulous. He is a huge James Bond fan - both the books and the films - and reads a lot of what I would term "guy fiction" - W.E.B. Griffin, Robert Parker, that kind of stuff. But he did enjoy the Outlander series, albeit I don't think he'd ever read them! Those 700+ pages can be daunting….

Lisa on Mar 18, 2009

219

Wow, out of 217 votes for the movie, now we have one dissenter. It had to happen sometime.

Joyscott on Mar 19, 2009

220

hubby loves these books….and he also loves HE-man type books….so dont worry…the men will love it

heather on Mar 20, 2009

221

Hi everyone,

I have been a huge fan of the Outlander series ever since I read Outlander for the second time. (The first time I was only twelve years old, so that doesn`t count. I didn`t like it because the first thing I actually read was the near rape by Jack Randall, which was a bit too much for me at that age) I must admit I never recommended the series to any of my male fantasy loving friends, because I loved the romance story so much, it was the most important part of the book to me. But I agree with the majority of the commenters here, it is so much more than just another romance series. I also loved the thoroughly researched history, the suspense throughout the action filled parts and the really well wrought time-travelling fantasy. Although a movie will never do the series justice (even at one book per movie) I am really looking forward to it. No book adaptation has ever done any book enough justice but I honestly don`t know a single book as suitable for adaption to the big screen as any one of Diana`s books. I`ll keep my fingers crossed for it really happening this time, since the TV mini series also fell through.

And about actors/actresses for the main characters: I only have a very strong opinion about who needs to be Jamie, although I`d love to see Kate Winslet as Claire. She`d be absolutely perfect for it (it never occurred to me before she was mentioned in one of the earlier posts, but she would).
Even though I share the opinion about previously known actors/actresses. She has had such a wide variety of parts and has been able to carry them all very well, I think she`d be able to get away with her famous face.

And now, for Jamie. The actor I have in mind for him has played in a big movie, but I think he is suitably unknown enough to make us forget he`s been anyone but Jamie. He has the build, the hair, the eyes, the nose and (I think) the accent: David Wenham.
Who? David Wenham, also known as Faramir of LOTR. He is tall, looks strong and handsome, he`s a redhead, has very blue eyes and a long straight nose, and if he doesn`t have a Scottish accent I don`t think it would be an effort for him to acquire one. I personally think he also has the ability to be or look rough around the edges but also very gentle, strong but also vulnerable, roguish but also intensely romantic, as we know Jamie is all that. Other plusses: David knows his way around a sword, and I don` think it would be really hard to have him look aged, so he could play both young and older Jamie.
There are a lot of actors I`d love to see as Jamie, just because I like the looks of them or love their acting. But none of them can BE Jamie as we all know him. I do think David Wenham could come very close to everyone`s mental image of James Alexander Malcolm Fraser though. Any thoughts?

Anja on Mar 21, 2009

222

I think David Wenham could make a good Jamie, but I think he would probably be too old. Everyone is against having a young actress ( someone in their lower twenties) play Claire, but I don't see why hardly anyone has a problem with a 40+ actor playing a 23 year old Jamie. Maybe I'm just saying this because I'm eighteen, but I would rather see a younger actor play the young Jamie.

Julie on Mar 22, 2009

223

oh please make the movie! it would be like lord of the rings, but with a better love story.

kellyjo on Mar 22, 2009

224

i think we are getting to hung up on the actual ages of the characters - if u remember, jamie thought claire was actually younger than him even though she was 27 and he was 23 - this being due to the fact that people looked older than their years in theose days to to poor diets etc., therefore we dont need a younger male lead than female lead - also it isn`t too unbelievable for a 30-something to play a 20-something, we don`t all let ourselves go in our thirties!! Look at th film Grease - they were all about 30 playing 17-18 year olds and that didn`t do that film any harm!

If the actors and director is right for the film then small details like ages can be overcome with a good make-up artist and cameraman - i personally would rather see the right actor in the right role.

nichola ward on Mar 23, 2009

225

Please let the fans decide on the characters. Myself and my sister, (huge fans of the books), would be very happy to go to Scotland Highlands to find a perfect Jamie. If he isn't truly a Highlander, it just wouldn't be the same, but if I had to choose from American actors, it would have to be Josh Holloway.

Sharon Williams on Mar 26, 2009

226

Or what about Marcus Schenkenberg as Jamie possibly

Sharon Williams on Mar 26, 2009

227

I think we all just need some fresh new news from Essental Ent. the company that's making the film as we understand it. After all, we can speculate forever on who plays what.
Its the director and staff that actuly make the performers do what they do. I would like to know who the director is for this film. That would let us have an idea of the style of the coming film.
I do think the actors need to have acting experence, these are not lightweight roles.

I can't imagine a modle ever being able to just step into acting with these roles. It would be like taking an apple and expecting it to be an orange.

vickie on Mar 26, 2009

228

I have seen something about this online before. I do hope that they make the movie. If they know what they are doing, this could be a fantastic movie!

Debbie on Mar 28, 2009

229

If they make this into a movie, they MUST get the casting right. This book has a wonderful plot but it truly character driven. The actors must be able to deliver heavy dramatic, comedic and realistic performances in EVERY scene. PLEASE let Diana Gabaldon keep creative control of this enterprise if they turn the series into a move. Nothing will be more disappointing to her millions of fans if this movie is screwed up by Hollywood.

museler on Mar 28, 2009

230

r u a dumass best authoress I've read in me wee life…lol…she says @ 45…but seriously..Diana is an author who can put you into the equation of the story not just tell it

lady lallybroch on Mar 29, 2009

231

#230, "lady (not) lallybroch": Your post is way off-base and disrespectful. This is not My Space,face book or some other teen text message arena. Apologies to all posters would be most appreciated. Thank you on behalf of all posters above.

Jenny on Mar 29, 2009

232

and yet another cast suggestion… and this one comes after I checked essential entertainment-no mention of outlander movie whatsoever- for jamie eric dane obviously with dyed red hair, for claire Monica bellucci, for jack & frank James Purefoy, for laghoire scarlet johanssen. How's that?

victoria on Mar 30, 2009

233

Unfortunately, Diana already said if there is a movie, she will have very little to do with it. Although I'm excited and eagerly awaiting a movie, I feel that without Diana's guidance, it will stray from the book.

Julie on Mar 30, 2009

234

Doesn't matter, "someone" sold movie rights. Who that is I am not sure. It could be Dianna or it could be a totaly unknowen person or entity.

Dianna,Our Much Loved Author is listed as a writter on the Essental entertainment site for this movie.
Try the free trial on IMBD so you have access to IMBDPRO. Look at Essental Entertainment site.
I checked and its not exactly the same page as the regular web site.
There everyone can see exactly what is what. Just cancil the free service before they charge you.
I think its two weeks.

Vickie on Mar 30, 2009

235

Diana Gabaldon has a blog on her website and she has mentioned nothing about the movie since November 2008. In November she stated she had nothing to do with the script and would keep her readers updated. I would think if she was involved in anyway with the movie she would have said so on her blog. Her book has been optioned many times before and nothing has come of it. Read her blog and the comments….she does occasionally respond to comments about the movie. FYI, on her blog concerning Kevin McKidd, she thinks he is too old to play Jamie as does she Catherine Zeta Jones for Claire. She has other comments about other actors but as she states she has no input into the movie. If things have changed, she has not mentioned it.

Juanita on Mar 30, 2009

236

OMG - Outlander is so much more than romance, it is brutal war, prison beatings and betrayal. The books are incredible, I only hope that the movie will compare.

t deblois on Mar 31, 2009

237

To Juanita, Write and ask if she is credited as a writter on this project. I wrote nearly two months ago. Or look at the credit on IMBD Pro. She is listed as such there.
This is the last I will say on Dianna's envolvment with the movie.
Its on line at IMBD PRO, plain as day. I just can't foward it into this group list. Wish that was possible.
All in all, we want the same thing. We want our beloved favoirte of all time book to be made into a fine moive.
I have more faith in people who are working at their chosen craft. I'm fairly positive everyone envolved in the Outlander Movie Project is there because they love what they are doing. People who love what they are doing generaly do their very best.
Outlander should be a beatiful movie because Dianna wrote OUTSTANDING Books. Russel Scott is a very Top Knotch screenplay writter. Have faith. They won't let us down.
As you can see, I'm a positive outlook person. I have faith in good people and the fine work they do.
While Outlander is my all time favorite book series Braveheart is one of my all time favorite movies.
So to me its the best all around for the Outlander Movie!

Vickie on Mar 31, 2009

238

Compared to Braveheart, it's about as romantic, gritty and bloody.

Compared to Braveheart on Apr 1, 2009

239

You just don't know what you are talking about. Shame on you! Outlander and the subsequent other books in this series, are works of art. It is a series not to be missed and would make a terrific movie. There is absolutley no finer writer than Diana Gabaldon.

Donna Foyle of www.romancereviewsmag.com on Apr 1, 2009

240

I truly love this book series and it simply has to be made into movies!!!! I am obsessed with these books and Jamie Fraser!!!! The relationship between Jamie & Claire is so beautiful!!! It's every woman's dream !!!!You have to make these books into movies!!!!I wiill definitely see them & buy them should they come out on video!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PLEASE MAKE THE MOVIES!!!!!!!!

Elizabeth on Apr 2, 2009

241

If made correctly it will be an epic movie that will stand the test of time, just like Braveheart! JAMIE SHOULD BE PLAYED BY MAX MARTINI, KNOWN FOR HIS ROLE ON "THE UNIT".!!!!!!!!

Anna on Apr 3, 2009

242

I don't think I could watch any movie/mini-series version of "Outlander" unless:

I saw Kevin McKidd as Jamie. He is SUCH a man. His voice, his manner, his gait, his emotion. Has anyone seen "Rome"? He was so real.

Jason Isaacs for Frank - he could do both sides of good and evil.

Kate Winslet or Rachel Weisz for Claire.

But for me, Kevin McKidd must be Jamie.

Linda on Apr 3, 2009

243

I don't classify these books as romance novels. Nora Roberts these are not!

Diana Gabaldon has a B.S. degree in Zoology from N. Arizona University, an M.S. degree in Marine Biology from U.C. San Diego, and a Ph.D in Ecology from N. Arizona University.

The research and detail she puts in each book (usually 1000 pages +) makes these stories as rich in history, battles and armory detail as it does romance.

I discovered Outlander in 1992, and my father a WWII veteran loves them as much as I do!

AJ Fisher on Apr 3, 2009

244

Kevin McKidd Yes, he is very,very good. Have you seen him doing the part of a Surgon who sufferes from Post-tramatic illness after coming back from Iraq? He's a regular on GRAY'S Anatomy on ABC. in my area that's on Thursday night at 8:00.
I was flipping channels and saw him in an oldie movie the other day too. He was so very young.
I'm sure he would be really good as Jamie or ? He is a very fine actor.

Vickie on Apr 3, 2009

245

I just finished the Outlander and am surprised that it has not been filmed in all these years.Seems perfect for a big screen. I love the idea of Kevin McKidd for Jaimie and Kate Winslet for Claire. Brilliant suggestions.

Nat on Apr 4, 2009

246

Just finished watching Nim's Island and my vote for Jamie is Gerard Butler.

Jenny on Apr 4, 2009

247

I have read EVERY book twice and then some. Gerard Butler would be Wonderful!!!
Dye his hair red, put a nice kilt on him and call every one lass. That will do it!

Lori Wickard on Apr 6, 2009

248

It's not about a romance…it's about a marriage!!

niniene on Apr 6, 2009

249

David Wenham is the best jamie.

Yolanda on Apr 7, 2009

250

I am so excited about this movie. The Outlander series of books are excellent. I have read them all…..twice! and can't wait for the new one to come out in Sept.'09. I hope they do the books justice in the movie. Cast the right people and have an excellent script, the Scottish Highlands and you can't go wrong…….I hope!

Carole Gordon on Apr 8, 2009

251

Despite my first name being Kelly, I am a man who is not gay, and I really enjoy this series. My dad also likes it, so it can appeal to men, but you have to have a long enough attention span to read a 10,000 page book series. To me, it seems like Diana Gabaldon does a really nice job of bringing the characters to life. I have some reservations about a movie, because casting a Jamie Fraser is really impossible. I have not seem an actor that would have the moxie to pull off the larger than life heroism and yet gentleness that the character requires.

Kelly on Apr 8, 2009

252

These are the best books ever written in my opinion!! Rarely do you find someone who can tell a story like Diana that makes you actually feel like you're part of all the conversations that go on, and like you're actually standing there next to the characters. Sometimes, when I have to stop reading and go to bed or to work, I feel like I'm missing a movie, like it's continuing on without me. That's how involved you get with the story, and it's people. A comment for 198, Jane Seymour is a great actress, and I am a fan of hers, but she's way, way too old to play Claire at the beginning of the story! I have to admit I'm a little nervous about this movie being made. There's no way it's going to be as good as the book. I'll for sure go see it, but I'm not very optimistic about it. I read the book The Mists of Avalon, by Marion Zimmer Bradley, also a great book and great storyteller. But a huge disappointment when the movie came out. You just can't take a book with that much detail and be satisfied at the end of the movie. I'm also a huge fan of the Harry Potter series, but I have to say that I was surprised at how much I actually enjoyed the movies. If Diana actually gets a say, and they don't change things, than maybe there's a chance for the movie. But I thought I read on her web site that she wasn't going to have a say in the screen play. I'm really easily pleased when it comes to movies, not as picky as some of my friends and family are, but I gotta say they're playin with fire here! If nothing else, hopefully we'll get to see some attractive people on screen, and I get a nite out!!

Marie on Apr 9, 2009

253

I have read, read and re-read these books. I am just dumbfounded at the authenticity of the language used. Diana has captured the very essence of the scottish jacobean persona…..(LOL I am sure of that)
The story-line is unique. Take a woman from the 20th century and put her….without preparation into a very troubled time in history….200 years previously…..and have her not only survive by the skin of her teeth….but have someone like jamie fraser fall in love with her?
Jamie is young and pliable… Claire makes him…..Claire has more experience….but is just blown away (over time) by Jaimie…..
Therein lies the essence of their whole life…..their whole adventures…..They support each other with a love that defies description…..- only diana knows how to describe it. What a talent she has.
I can't see this as a movie. With the possible exception of Gone with the wind…..I have never known a book to be truly transferred to the screen with any success……
However….. as a series on tv……yes….without the triteness of jane seymour in Medicine woman..(which was okay as a working series) ….but outlander…needs some special treatment. So much so at the risk of offending anyone….Let the British do it. They handle this thing so well…..they understate….rather than overstate the obvious. They are masters as it…. ohhh no offence to anyone….just full compliments to diana….. I am an avid reader for half a century….and it has to be the best…..historical fiction…..that I have ever read. The sheer amount of information and historical fact…wound around the fiction…rather than the other way round….fantabulous….thankyou diana…I eagerly await the next in the series
Ros 9th April 2009

ros on Apr 9, 2009

254

Outlander as a movie would be fantastic.
I have read many many books over the past few years and I have to say that the Outlander series is the absolute best. I agree with soo many other previous comments about the historical aspects of the books. I found the series to be very educational. It obviously does have a love story of James Fraser and Claire Randall behind it, but that is not the main focus of the book. I honestly believe you should read it before bashing it. These books are nothing short of a masterpiece. Diana Gabaldon is a very gifted author.
My vote for Jamie is Gerard Butler.
An Echo in the Bone comes out September 22, 2009.

Lauren on Apr 10, 2009

255

In my mind, Jamie looks like Josh Holloway, obviously with red hair:

http://cafenatiffanys.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/josh20sexy20pic.jpg

But wood be great to see Simon Woods as him, and he's a natural redhead and also younger:

http://thecia.com.au/reviews/p/images/pride-and-prejudice-9.jpg

http://l.yimg.com/img.movies.yahoo.com/ymv/us/img/hv/photo/movie_pix/summit/penelope/simon_woods/pre.jpg

As for Claire, in the first book, I can see her something like Natalie Portman:

http://vidaordinaria.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/natalie_portman-2392.jpg

Lilly on Apr 10, 2009

256

I think Alex kingston would be a wonderful Claire she has avery nice british accent. She has CURLY WIG type hair as Jamie called it . Claire described it as higgeldy piggeldy. She has that accent that Brianna Makes fun of her RATHA VULGA. She also played Elizabeth Corday on ER Perfect role for Claire. Kevin McKidd absolutely Perfect. Very intense in his role on Greys Anatomy. OOOOH and those Eyes OH lord

karen prince on Apr 10, 2009

257

I think that the movie should be made in at least 4 sequels like lord of the rings. It would be far too difficult to get the essence of the story into one single movie.There are far too many changes in Locale and far too many plots

Karen on Apr 10, 2009

258

It would be nice if the movie could have the budget of Lord of the Rings, because then I would cast it like this:

Jamie Fraser: Jason Lewis for sure. Don't think so? Do a search on Google Images. He's perfect, sans the Scottish accent. But that can be learned with several tutors and some time well spent in Scotland. (Jason's the guy "Smith Jared" from Sex and the City.) Great sex appeal, strength and young enough to portray some innocence, too.

Claire: Rachel Weisz — she's perfect as well. Spunky, smart, beautiful, deep. I love her. Not much to say there.

Frank Randall: Tom Welling. You'll find him on the net, too. He was Clark Kent in Smallville. He needs an accent as well, unfortunately. But I picked him because he very much looks like my pic for Jonathan Randall.

Jonathan Randall: Cillian Murphy — the Scarecrow character in the new Batman movies. When I first saw him in Batman Begins, I immediately thought he'd make a great Black Jack Randall.

Dougal MacKenzie: Would be Gerard Butler, hands down.

Colum MacKenzie: Vitto Mortensen is absolutely who I picture when I read the storylines involving Colum.

Jenny Fraser Murray: Anna Friel (from Pushing Dasies) — she's got the right look and is the perfect height for Jenny. She's also British, so she could pick up the Scottish accent easily, I would think.

Ian Murray: Ewan Mcgregor

Geillis Duncan: Naomi Watts

Murtaugh: David Thewlis (Professor Lupin in the Harry Potter movies)

Do Google searches on those folks — and let me know what you think! I've mulled it over for a while now, and that's the final cast I would have. :o)

Maria on Apr 11, 2009

259

While I appreciate your work on this, my comment is that both Jason Lewis and Rachel Weisz are too old to play Jamie and Claire. They are both near 40 and in the book Jamie is a 22 yr old virgin and Claire is about 25. As for Frank and Jonathan Randall, these characters should be played by the same person IMO. As for the minor characters, I think they will be easier to cast since most readers have less invested in them as compared to Jamie and Claire. Jamie and Claire will be hard to cast and the casting will upset people no matter who is cast. Everyone has their own vision and I am sure for the most part, there are not many similarities.

Juanita on Apr 11, 2009

260

Jason Isaacs is the only actor on the PLANET to play Jonathan/Frank Randall!

Calagal on Apr 11, 2009

261

Calagal — you're right. He would be a fantastic choice. Perfect, in fact.

I change my mind. And truly, after thinking about it, Frank has such a small roll in the book to begin with that the same person could play both in the movie very easily.

I like!!!!!

Maria on Apr 12, 2009

262

Post 85, above, mentions Minnie Driver as a good fit for Claire, but I think she would be much better suited for Brianna. I've seen pictures of her with her hair dyed red and she fits the part physically very well. I think the physicality of the characters will be critical. They cannot compromise Jamie's character by giving the role to someone just for a good-looking face. Jamie is sexy because of his strength - both of body and character. I think that is why everyone is drawn to Gerard Butler playing Jamie, because of his rugged good looks. However, Jamie MUST be tall and I believe Gerard is only 6'. That's tall, but not "Jamie" tall. He MUST be well over six feet. I recently saw Tai-Pan on cable TV thought that Bryan Brown would be the perfect older Jamie. He pulls off a great Scottish accent and is 6'3" with naturally curly, red hair. Too bad this movie wasn't made 20 years ago. Bryan Brown, now in his 60s, would have been perfectly matched with Jane Seymour as Clarie. And, wouldn't Lindsay Duncan (Rome) be a wonderful Gillis Duncan? The cast of Rome (HBO) has a lot of actors that could fit the smaller roles in Outlander: Tobias Menzies (Brutus) would be a great Ian Murray. Simon Woods (the older Octavian) could be Lord John. And, the boy who played Octavian the younger, Max Pirkis, could be Lord John as a boy.

That's enough for now. I have a long commute to work and have listened to this series three times. Davina Porter has painted such a specific picture of each character in my mind that I will likely not see the movie. But, it is fun to pretend that I am in charge of casting!

Calagal on Apr 12, 2009

263

I'm throwing in another vote for Nathan Fillion. He's at a good age to be able to play a young Jamie as well as an older Jamie.
He's from Canada and has a bit of rollling brouge in his voice. He would be a fine chocie for Jamie.
Check out Castle at ABC.com or Nathan Fillon at IMBD.
About Claire, I am totally undecided as to a specific Actress. She's a Nurse having served in France During WW1. A nurse with wildly curly hair. So, in the start of the book she should look like a WW1 vintage nurse wearing her hair in a style of the day. After all, Let her look trendly for the right era.
After we move on into the book I think her look should have a period-approate more carefree look.
I see her as a beatiful woman withen the right time-periods
If the pick a modern day sex-pot looking woman they will ruin the movie right from the start.

V.J.M Vickie on Apr 12, 2009

264

I could see Kristanna Loken with Contacts and dyed hair as a good Claire but also as a great Brianna. If anyone has seen the movie "Ring of the Nibelungs", you'll know what I mean
I also think that Keira Knightley would be a good choice (if she gained at least 20 pounds) for Claire. Her acting has improved in the last years and Diana Gabalon also mentioned, that she would be a good Claire becuase of her acting but also because of her looks. I think, she could do it.

Lisa on Apr 14, 2009

265

I think Rachel McAdams should be considered for the role of Claire. While it's true she's already slated to play another Claire in a an adaption of the novel, The Time Traveller's Wife as the love interest of a time traveller, she should not be discounted.
Rachel has excellent acting range with experience in dramas- State of Play and The Notebook, and comedies - Mean Girls, Wedding Crashers.
However, my first choice and who I always imagine for Claire is Kate Winslet.

I respectively disagree about Keira Knightley. She is a fine actress, but I would be devastated if she were cast. I don't see her as Claire at all-weight gain or not. Better to cast someone too old in my opinion.

Clive Owen or Viggo Mortensen would be great options for Collum. I think Gerard Butler should play the role of Dougal and if they could find someone very similar but younger than Gerard, that person should be cast as Jamie. I like the idea of Frank/Randall being portrayed by the actor who played Mr. Fantastic in the Fantastic 4 & the lead in Amazing Grace- I can't think of his name right now.
SIGH….there will be no pleasing everyone in whomever they cast and what they omit from the story. Let's just cross our fingers and hope it gets made well and is released in theaters!

Shannon on Apr 14, 2009

266

Ionn Gruffudd is the actor who portrayed Mr. Fantastic, and yes, I think he could portray Frank/Black Jack very well. Later on in the novels, I think Jude Law would be excellent for Lord John Grey.
~Thanks

Shannon on Apr 14, 2009

267

From spending a few minutes cruisng the web, there is alot of talk about James McVoy and Keria Knightly playing the top two roles of Jamie and Claire.
I just can't see that being possible. James M. is far too much of a pretty boy, he is far too young and he's shorter than Jamie. Jamie should always be taller than Claire and have far more of a manly build than is present on the body of James McVoy.
Keria had many of the same sort of problems. Shes too young for the role, too far off from Claire's round and shaply mature body. Claire is 28 years old at the time of the start of Outlander.
Keria looks like she might be 18 at the oldest. She has a very pette body size and the Actress doesn't mesure up to the actual discription of Claire.
I really hope Essental Ent. took these considerations in to mind when they started shoting the film this spring.
One thing that pleases me to no end is that the movie is to be filmed in the north of Scotland!
There could be no better location than to actualy film in the right location.
Hurah for the right location!
On Adrian Paul's site there is some considerion for having the Highlander play a supporting role.
Someone like Black Jack has been metioned.
I think there are a few supporting role which he could do a fine job. He can most certianly handle a very large sword with ease.

V.J.M Vickie on Apr 14, 2009

268

Weel wee Alex, what do you think now after this extremely long thread of comments?

I don't know if anyone has actually convinced you of the story's validity, but hopefully you've become a bit more intrigued. As you can see this is not a litigous bunch. They (myself included at times) can be very protective about our precious little piece of fiction. /giggle/

To be honest with you I'm not a big reader. I watch alot more movies than read, but this story (saga to be more accurate) ensnared me in its web and I haven't found my way out. Maybe I don't want to. I find Outlader series parallel to that of Shogun. They both are set in historic presidence. Both lead characters are foreign. Both stories are full of trials and tribulations for the lead characters ( acclimation into a foreign environment). They have bloody fights and battles, wars. They go into great detail of how people lived at the time. They both do have the element of romance too. The only difference is the lead characters gender. Oh and there is that little fact of time travel. That being said I hope by now you at least have been able to read excerpts from the Outlander books. I'm telling you there not that bad.

To change the subject a bit. I work within the entertainment industry and if this company (E.E.) is smart they will make this movie and do a good job. This is the perfect kind of story to put out around these trying times. People want to forget there troubles and this story/movie would give its viewers a chance to loose themselves if only for a short while.

As for CSA's, DoP's, directors, writers, editors, actors and the like. I don't envy these people a whole lot. Who ever they may turn out to be if at all. They will be scrutinized to the tenth power because of this stories loyal fan base. Other than that…it should be fun.

Andrea on Apr 14, 2009

269

Shannon - All your choices are awesome! I never thought Kate Winslet for Claire, but she might be really good! I always kind of thought Ewan McGreggor for Jamie, but hes maybe too short? I'm not sure…That Irish actor…the one who played Scarecrow in Batman Begins (Cillian Murphy?) would be good for Lord John too I think!

I would be over the moon if they made this movie, but at the same time, if they ruined the book I would be heart broken. I've read through all 6 books twice and was starting in on the third, but lent it to a friend. Everyone should get to read them!!

Meg on Apr 15, 2009

270

I love the idea of this book as a movie. I loved the whole series. I think the actress playing
Claire must be strong-willed, tall, earthy, independant and a real fireball. I can't think who it
should be, but a younger version of a Susan Sarandon type would do.
As for Jamie, I would love to see Alex O'Loughlin from Moonlight in that role. He's not that
well-known yet, but he has a very vocal following, and his star is beginning to rise. He is
6' 2 inches tall, gorgeous, looks great with long hair, is well built, and can do a Scottish accent.
Last but not least, he is a fabulous actor and can play any kind of role.

Linda on Apr 15, 2009

271

WOW! 270 posts about this story…. Do you think the film makers even read any of this?

My 2 cents:

Incredible story telling by Diana Gabaldon that would make excellent movies. I think Cable Channel Mini-Series would be the only way to do this elegantly woven tale of history, romance, war, etc. any justice. Too much will definitely be left out, but that's the way these things go.

I like some of the suggestions previously made for casting this epic, and some make me want to hurl. My only requests are: James Fraser be tall and a TRUE REDHEAD! Especially if there are to be any love scenes (if you get my drift). Clare Randall/Fraser must have a full-figure…that's sexy in the 1700's, and in the 1040's for that matter.

Please let this one go well!!!!!

Optic Junkie on Apr 18, 2009

272

I think Alex Kingston would be FANTASTIC in the role of Claire!!!!!!!!!!!

LANNEYGURL on Apr 18, 2009

273

To not see this book on the big screen would be a true pitty, If it is done right. Men hear romance and think oh BLAH but there is far more to these novels than the romance. If you aren't sold by what people have to say, quit whining and read the book. Don't let us change your mind READ THE BOOK. Thanks

Tara on Apr 23, 2009

274

OMG! These books are not just romantic, they are adventurous & historical. Not to mention the mystery twists! Diana G. did such a fabulous job with her writing skills, that I was actually there on Frasier's Ridge with them all! I saw the glorious scenery; felt Jamie's sea sickness; felt their passion for each other & their families; & could smell the fire in their hearth! Claire & Jamie began when they were young, tight & feisty! Throughout their lives together & appart & back together again, they grew older gracefully; built a life on the Ridge for themselves & so many others. It is a story of when men were Men and women were Ladies! Tough life in the 18th century when you're a woman doctor from the 1960's - or a witch?!
I can see how a man from this day & age would feel intimidated by making a film of this stature! It would take a great team of seasoned film professionals to really pull this one off!

AMcNatt on Apr 24, 2009

275

I fogot to mention that I would read parts to my husband. I would fill him in on their adventures, losses and triumphs during the year it took me to read the series. Guess what?! HE LOVED THEM TOO! My husband is a tall Scotch-Irish himself! Now he wants to take me to Scotland! (Can't beat that!)

AMcNatt on Apr 24, 2009

276

The books contain much history of the times in which they take place. I received my first book (and a few others) from a male friend who was also engrossed in the history of the stories, as well as the passion, and Gabaldon's interpretation and expression of human emotions. I do agree, the story line is somewhat romantic, but also very lively, informing and adventurous. Even the Three Muskateers had a little romance!! I'm looking forward to a screening.

Jackie on Apr 24, 2009

277

I wish I had the ability to write so well - usuallly the movie is never as good as the book - we can only hope~

Maria on Apr 29, 2009

278

If you had read any of the books in this series you would KNOW that this is a VERY WORTHY project in which to be involved! The complexity of the story is hardly able to be described as just a romance novel. It has incredible historical detail as well….acurate detail is woven into this series. DO NOT make basic assumptions about this book or those that follow.

Now that I know that there is a plan to make this into a movie I can only say ITS ABOUT TIME!

laurie on Apr 29, 2009

279

A friend of mine gave me this book in June of 2008. I was not all that interested in it, but when I had burned through all my summer reading and this was sitting on my shelf, I picked it up. I was swept away in the first 5 minutes, and couldn't put it down. I have already read 2 of the sequels- Dragonfly in Amber and Voyager, and can't wait to get the next one. It's a romance story, at its heart, but there is so much intrigue involved in terms of Scottish/European history, politics, cultures of generations past, epic battles, well-developed characters, etc. that I am completely hooked. I can not wait to see this movie!!! This type of book is usually not my thing, and I LOVED IT!!!!!!!

Kristin on May 5, 2009

280

It is not a cheesy romance novel. Written from the female perspective, but any male who isn't shallow and daft could find the storyline valuable. It sounds like the screen writer was a good choice. Braveheart and We were Soldiers were great movies. I hope it translates well on the screen. Hollywood has a tendency to cheese it up and lose the historical accuracy.

stasi on May 5, 2009

281

I am absolutly thrilled!!! I hope they do the books justice…. this amazing epic love story has restored my book reading….Diana Gabaldon is an extraordinary writer who takes you back in time with Claire and Jamie Fraser. Mrs. Gabaldon's research during this time period is authentic and brings these books to life!!! I just started reading these books about 6 weeks ago, I am now engulfed in the 4th, Drums of Autum.
Crossing my fingers for Gerard Butler as Jamie and Rachel Wiez as Claire! YAY! I would love to see all these books on the big screen one day. These books are riskey in some parts, to truly stir your soul and prepared it to be touched.

Elizabeth on May 5, 2009

282

I agree. They need to dig in the native countries to find the actors like they did for the Harry Potter movies. No one had ever heard of the actors who played the main three roles. Secondary characters, yes, pull in the Liam Neesons and Alan Rickmans and the crusty Braveheart guys. The main characters need to be fresh faces and hungry talent. DaVinci Code swirled the toilet bowl as soon as they cast Tom Hanks. Not that he isn't great, but enough already. Big names that have features in People Magazines 100 Most Beautiful People need to stay off the headline. If Us Magazine has pictures of their "baby bump", their wedding, their divorce, or their latest foreign adoption, then for the love of all things holy keep them the hell off the roster. Keep political correctness out of the casting too. Stick to the historical accuracy of her writing, and leave personal agendas out of it. Capice?

stasi on May 6, 2009

283

Alex Kingston…seriously? Too old for a 28 year old woman (go back to the 1st book and see her age). Jamie is early 20's, she is late 20's. Plus…pulling from the ER cast? OOF. They need to rove the college campuses and pubs in Scotland for Jamie. Gigantic manly redhead w/cat eyes. Not Girard (too old and not physically compatible other than the accent). Red Jamie can't be short with a dye job. Do it right or don't do it I say. Time for an open, public cast call through the UK.

stasi on May 6, 2009

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Ruth Wilson, BBC actress who recently played Jane Eyre. English, curly brunette, young, talented, below the radar. Maybe? Just not from the cast of ER. oiy! Claire is a feisty 28 year old in the 1st book, not pushing 40.

stasi on May 6, 2009

285

truly, the first book would be an absolute delight on the big screen.
What is the latest on any update!
Is it seriously being considered? Or are we all just hoping

Aggie on May 6, 2009

286

Yes, its a real, true to life movie. We just about have too much information about the movie on the web rather than a lack of information. Locating that information just takes abit of creativity, think like Claire, its all on the web.

Vickie on May 6, 2009

287

No! there is much more to these books than just 18th century romance. There is history, time travel, witchcraft, adventure, suspense, criminal activity, scottish culture and as the series progresses, it covers immigration to the US during the Revolutionary war… so the history aspect changes to american history. I love historical period flicks….. and this one with the story itself is incredible!

Kristine on May 7, 2009

288

Gosh, I love to read / listen to the Outlander series. I am addicted. I have listened or read all of the books at least twice and am waiting with "bated breath" for the next. I have toured Scotland (1992) and would love to go again after the fact. The characters are written with so much depth that you start actually "feeling" for them. A mini-series or screen??? I don't know. I can be open to many actors for Claire, but not sure if there is anyone that can live up to Jamie's character. He is just too much for my comprehension. Love them both!

Laura on May 7, 2009

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Alex

I assume at this point you don't need to be convinced you're dealing with a "silly" romance. Frankly, my husband is the one who turned me on to the books and he's quite the book snob. I just finished the first book Outlander. I must say……it was a remarkable and breath taking ride. The book was suspenseful, horrorfying, action packed and in some instances down right stressful. Those my dear man are the key ingredients to a great film. Calling it a romance seems somehow silly. My Husband has been reading these one after another for about a year now. These are stout books. I am so happy that I will be on the adventure for some time to come. I have more novels to read and perhaps a movie to see.

Make the movie and they will come.

M Spencer

Mrs Spencer on May 7, 2009

290

I too am a huge fan of these books. I have not actually "read" all of them, But I have listened to them all numerous times. The public library is a wonderful place to borrow these audio books since it is quite expensive to buy them. They have the unabridged versions(only ones worth having IMO) narrated by Davina Porter. She does a wonderful job. I am of two minds concerning a movie. I would love to see it, but at the same time I have seen the hatchet job done on the longer Potter books. They cut out and rearrange alot of stuff. Also as far as actor choice goes, let's just say whenever I read my Earth's Children series by Jean Auel the Ayla in my minds eye tends to look an awful lot like Darryl Hannah :\

Michelle on May 8, 2009

291

I think Rupert Grint as young Jamie and Kevin McKidd as older.

Keri Russell or Claire Danes as Clair.

Gwenyth Paltrow as Loaghaire

Karen on May 8, 2009

292

Must also include Alex O'Loughlin and Gerald Butler to the cast- but not as Jamie.
Too many good looking men for not enough parts, I'm afraid.

Karen on May 8, 2009

293

I too wanted Gerald Butler, but unfortunately he is too old and not the right built. He could play another part. Like one person said before. They should go to Scotland and find Jamie there. If money is a problem to make the movie. They can use some unknowns for the main parts and use the more famous actors for the other roles. Look at Lord of the Ring and Harry Potter. Look at Darryl Hannah she was pretty much an unknown when they made Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean Auel and she played the part well. It will be hard to pick a Jamie. I took a look at Alex O'Loughlin and he is 6' 2" . He has the lean body I think Jamie would have. Jamie's height is unusual for that time period. Back in the 1700's people were shorter. As I said before. I think a mini series would be better then a 3 hr or 2 hr movie or make it a trilogy like Lord of the Rings so we get the full effect of the books.

Theresa on May 9, 2009

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" Nothing actually wrong with that, I'm just not interested in seeing a romantic 18th century adventure on the big screen."

It's not just a romance. I learned a lot about the Highland History and the war between the Britt's and the Scots. It made me research more about it. I saw the movie Clan of the Cave Bear before I ever read the books. I loved the movie but after reading the books it was different. I also learned a lot about the herbs they used for medicines. It was well documented as much as the Outlander. Anytime you make a movie from a book they leave so much out that you get disappointed when the movie plays.

Theresa on May 9, 2009

295

OK, now EVERYBODY! I think I've found the PERFECT Claire! I compeared a portrait of her (her name is Nadia Fares) to the picture of Claire for the Graphic Novel and they are almost IDENTICAL!

Check this link out, I've put her portrait and the Graphic Novel picture in it so you can compare them directly..
omg, she has the perfect face…

http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss127/LisaPattinson/?action=view&current=nadiafaresry0.jpg

Lisa on May 9, 2009

296

i`ve said it before but i think it needs saying again - let scottish actors play the scots - english actors play the english and leave the americans alone til they get there!!!
with the exception of renee zellwegger in bridget jones, most put on accents can be seen for just that, even mel gibson in braveheart - much as i love the film it would pain me to hear jamie talk like that!

Gwyneth paltrow is in her late thirties and laoghaire is 16 when we first hear about her so don`t think that would work - also rupert grint is stil too baby faced - we must remeber that 22 in tjhose times would look much as 30 does in these times - people looked older than their years!

as has been said many time - if this is to be done it needs to be with immense care for the characters and the detail and personality that diana gabaldon has given them and their appearances otherwise it will be a waste of time making it - it will be a flop and the series wold not be completed.

as with everyone else who has read it i`m sure - i have a huge ginormous crush on jamie fraser s please please please do him justice!

nichola ward on May 9, 2009

297

Kevin McKidd's face is great but he's too short for Jamie…

Tina on May 9, 2009

298

Nadia Fares is very attractive. Claire?? Is her bottom generous enough? (LOL) And can a French actress pull off a "proper" English accent? I am not familiar with Ms. Fares.

Emotionally, I resist assigning any actors to portray Jamie and Claire. I just can't see it. It's as if they are their own people and the movie a biography of sorts. Diana, help!

Laura on May 9, 2009

299

Alex, It was my own father who got me started on this series of books. He loved them so maybe some of the guys out there will enjoy them as well? It is extremely well written and is so exciting, with lots of action. I have been hooked on them for a very long time now.

Jean on May 15, 2009

300

I think that making a movie out of this series would be a challange for any director. Casting alone would be a most impossible quest. I don't think there is an actor out there who could portray Jamie Fraser correctly.
I also think that there would be a lot of ladies out there who would be breaking up with their silly boyfriends, because they fell in love with Jamie. He is class, heroism, adoration, and bravery personafied. Maybe guys would step up and be men if they saw what their competition was? ha ha.
Just kidding. But really, Either the movie would be a complete waste of time or it would be treasured by so many people, as the book series is.

My vote: Try. What's a few million dollars eh?

cynthia on May 19, 2009

301

I love the series, and I hope I'll see them on the big screen in the near future.
In my opinion they should choose different actors for the two different time periods. So, they'll have to find 2 Jamies (great idea, isn't it? 2 Jamies!!!). So, they have to take Gerald Butler for the 40+ Jamie and some other actor for the younger Jamie… (I'd choose Robert Pattinson…because he does look good with red hair… but then again, most of the fans wouldn't be happy, so I'd go for some unknown actor.)
Claire… hmmm. Rachel Weisz for the older Claire… and I have no idea who to choose for the younger part. I'd be more disappointed if Claire would turn out to be dull than if Jamie would turn out to be just ok-looking.
Sean Bean has to play Cullum, and Jude Law Stephen Bonnet…

well, maybe they should just do a bbc series… that would be much easier.

Sophie on May 22, 2009

302

I think they should put this series on HBO or Showtime like they have done with the Tudors or Rome. Those were both well done and I think there is enough substance to segue nicely into a TV series.

Carolyn on May 22, 2009

303

Check out 5'10" Kyle Schmid for Jamie. Most recently in Blood Ties. I'm well over 60, but oh my………. Thought of Jamie the very first time I'm saw this guy.

April on May 22, 2009

304

wow….kyle schmid looks like jamie!!!! well done

ros on May 23, 2009

305

Claire can't be some size 00 Hollywood actress. Nigella Lawson type — beautiful dark curly hair and voluptuous. Jamie has to be tall, built like a basketball player, not a football player with no neck. I don't think I can stand it if they don't cast it correctly. Why not pick unknowns? Vivien Leigh was Scarlett O'Hara through and through and she was an unknown at the time.

Indiana Pearl on May 24, 2009

306

I'm pleased so many others have thought these wonderful books would be better served as an HBO series…I totally agree. I can't really see how they can do justice to even the first book in a 2 hour movie. That being said, I'll weigh in on the fun of imagining a cast. I loved Kevin McKidd in Rome and Grey's Anatomy, but I think he's a bit too old and doesn't have the right combination of sweetness and strength. Gerard Butler is great, but too old and not tall enough. I haven't seen the acting ability of many of the others mentioned although they may look good in photos. However…how about Henry Cavill who plays Charles Brandon on the Tudors? Dying hair and doing an accent would be easy for him…having the acting chops is harder, but he's got that. He was favored by one of the producers when they recast James Bond, but in the end was thought to be too young. Either Jonathon Ryhs Meyers or James Purefoy would be great as Frank/Jack Randall. Can't really say I'm in love with any of the choices mentioned for Claire, but have no better ideas. BTW: In my Barnes and Noble the books are in the Literature section, not Romance. Just read that Sept. 22 is the release date for the next book…can't wait!

Shannon H. on May 24, 2009

307

DON'T "FAST TRACK" IT - take your time and do it damn right. I am going to be some kinda P**ssed off if the potential of this series is ruined by some corporate equivalents of Simon Cowell pump it out there to make a buck. This is my favorite book and series of all time - I hope SO MUCH it is not made to look stupid like the Mists of Avalon series, which took another fantastic story and made it BORING and unbelievably - ANNOYING. — only a man or two could've wrecked that so let's not "FAST TRACK" it and you are idiots if you don't let Diana G. have say.

Ruth on May 25, 2009

308

Second of all, who cares if the MEN like it? Its' not a man's movie, let them go to Terminator.

Ruth on May 25, 2009

309

And hey, if it became an HBO series - I would buy HBO for the first time in my life.

Ruth on May 25, 2009

310

I was lucky to listen to this series of book instead of reading them. I discovered the Outlander series six months ago at my local library and started listening to 'Outlander" read by the incredibly talended Davina Porter. I totally fell in love with the story and proceeded to listen to the entire series of 6 books. I mentioned the story to my husband who expressed interest. Somewhat dubious, I however encouraged him to listen to the audiobooks. To my surprise, he became as enthralled as I had been. My husband is 61, a serious, scientifically minded type whom I would never have guessed would love a "romance" novel, but he assures me that the novels are much more than that. He particularly likes Jaimie, loves the rectitude and honor of the character so beautifully brought to life by Diana Gabaldon. He loves the action, the love scenes, despises Black Jack, and is dying to ask me questions about the unfolding plot but manages to resist the impulse to better enjoy the story. He is now nearing the end of the second book. So, gentlemen, put aside your mental reservations and give it a try. I personally highly recommend the audiobooks as Davina Porter truly adds life to a majestic and unforgettable epic.

sybil garrison on May 25, 2009

311

sorry but they need one person to play claire and jamie not 2 (well one each u know what i mean!!), we have to believe in these people and to change them would make them unbelievable - also i think casting one person is going to be hard enugh never mind 2!!

Kyle Scmid looks nothing like my picture of jamie - i picture him more rugged and rough and not a `pretty boy`, althugh very attractive - whoever they cast needs to have a presence about them - something that makes people want to look at them and not juct cos they have a nice face - th9is will be soooooo hard!

i don`t think they will every get it perfect for jamie or claire but there will be someone somewhere that comes pretty close - they should hold open auditions for both parts!!! who knows, they may discover an untapped talent somewhere!!

nichola ward on May 25, 2009

312

Well Alex, you're a ignorant ass for making opinionated comments about a film that is being adapted from a book or series of books that you have NEVER READ! Why bother writing about something that you know nothing about. I am sure that even you, must know at least one thing, try writing about that. How would you like it if you wrote a book that was being adapted into a film and people that think you're an ignorant ass made disparaging remarks about it and gave it bad reviews, even though they never read it??? This is America, and you are entitled to your opinion, but an opinion should be based on facts, such as, actually having read at least the first book in the series before you trash it!

For those of you that actually care, I bought the fifth book in the series (Fiery Cross) at JFK airport before a trip to London. All of the books in the series are at least 700 to 800 pages, so it was great for a long flight. The book far exceeded my expectations of an historical fiction book, which is the actual genre. I do believe, if you are a man that enjoys reading more than Sports Illustrated and Playboy for the articles, you might actually like the series. The main male character (Jamie Fraser) is a real man's man, albeit with a steak of integrity a mile long, even though he is prone to break the law, more than occasionally. Claire is a beautiful, intelligent, fiesty woman that really gives Jamie a run for his money, especially given the fact that she is a woman from 200 years in Jamie's future. Their relationship is an epic love story that crosses time. The backdrop of the Scottish defeat by the English and later the beginning of the Revolutionary War, made so real that you feel like you're there, with characters and stories so compelling you will feel like you lost a friend when you finish each of the books.

I don't really think that a two or even three hour film can do any of these books justice, but I would see the films if they were made, if only to support the very excellent writer of the series, Diana Gabaldon. A mini series for each book would possibly do it justice.

Sue Cruz on May 25, 2009

313

OMG! Gerard Butler IS Jamie! He's wonderful & would do Jamie justice!

Yes - an HBO mini series is perfect for each book! A 2 hour movie wouldn't even touch it!

Amber on May 26, 2009

314

I agree that the books would be better suited as a miniseries. At over 700 pages in the first book alone, I'm afraid that too much would be cut for the final showing to actually give the complexity of the overall plot justice. As for Gerard Butler, ladies I agree the man is good looking, but he is actually much older than Jamie in the beginning of the series, and let's not forget how often the books reflect on the past of Jamie while him and Claire were seperated. And James McAvoy is much too young looking for the part, although his age would say otherwise. Let's face it, McAvoy looks about 15 years old in everything he's been in.

And for the men readers' of this post, I do assure you that although there is mushy gushy romantical parts, the action, drama, and climatical suspense overshadows the corset ripping by much much more. My father has actually read and enjoyed most of the series so far, reading as far into it as The Fiery Cross. He is a bit tired of hearing about how…erm…majestic Jamies'….ah….member is….but let's not forget that this magnificent description won't be verbalized on screen


I did say that a miniseries would do the series much more justice, but I don't think I would want it on HBO or Showtime, as those two venues are under the impression that only sex sells in the end, as is made apparent with series such as Six Feet Under or The Tudors, which, although they are fantastic shows, could have done without quite so much…anatomy.

ashley on May 26, 2009

315

P.S. I vote for James Murray as Jamie. Look him up on IMDB. He's not well known, but I think that's what this movie needs. And maybe Kiera Knightley for Claire….if she would agree to put on some weight if not, she could make a good Brianna.

ashley on May 26, 2009

316

Well, I do agree with Ashley. Kiera needs to gain some weight for the Clair role. She is the actress the rest of the web says he is now in the role of Clair.

Vickie on May 26, 2009

317

James Murray? I think I like him. Didn't know him until I just looked. Nice copper hare, perfect skin tone, blue eyes. Kiera Knightley was good in Pride and Prejudice. I just can't see her skinny arse ass claire. Sorry. I still like Ruth Wilson. You can roughen her up a bit from the Jane Austen movie. Make her a little less polished.

stasi on May 27, 2009

318

James McVoy? Dark hair but his beard comes in red like my husband's. Ewan MacGregor as a supporting role. Big name I know, but doesn't do all the mainstream crap. Jack Randall???? If that guy that played the villain in the Patriot and Malfoy's dad won't get out of my head for the mere fact that he is so good at playing a horrible bastard. I think he may be to old, though. Randall is key to the first book, he needs to be pretty, cold, and evil. Not every actor is comfortable in that role, especially the buggery aspect. This could be done well, casting is key. I for one am excited. The Showtime mini-series would have been great, but obviously it isn't going to happen. Can you imagine suffering through the summer during season breaks, and waiting almost year for the next season to come out? I think that would be torture.

stasi on May 27, 2009

319

I watched a few utube videos last night, made by fans of the outlander series like me….but these were made up with various actors the ones I liked most were the gerard butler ones…..now he is 39 now….he's not a pretty boy at all…but he has a strong handsome face and looks like he would have depth of character just like jamie…..and…he is tall…and would have the authentic scottish accent….
As for Kiera Knightly to play claire…no way…she neither has the voluptuous figure…nor the depth of character…(or any proven acting ability (as yet)….to play a character like claire….)
because….all of us fans….know…don't we …that jamie and claire have so much depth to them…
diana gabaldon….god bless her!!!!! told us what jamie thought….."thats the roundest arse I have ever seen"
I like kiera knightly….but she's played very light characters…she suits them.
Claire needs someone of depth….a kate winslet at least who has the depth, the figure and the proper english accent. Why ask americans to play british people….and visa versa??? There were suggestions on the videos….that gwyneth paltrow play loghaire…..thats not a bad idea….and cate blanchet for gellis duncan…. also a good idea….
anyway….I hope they make a good job of it…..who ever they pick…..but definitely gerard butler for jamie….who can play him from 23 thru to 53 if necessary….
well thats my view….
cheers…..

ros on May 27, 2009

320

I'm so sick of hearing Gerard Butler as Jamie Fraser. Yes he is gorgeous, tough, hot, blah blah blah… but Jamie Fraser is much bigger and much more rugged. Gerard doesn't have the wide smile that curves up at the corners, doesn't have the coloring. I don't picture Jamie as a really gorgeous handsome guy either. He's more rugged and magnetic than good looks. I watched some of those YouTube trailers too and the best one so far is Taylor Mane - he looks EXACTLY as I picture Jamie.

For the movie, I think a 3 1/2 - 4 hr movie which begins with an older Claire telling Roger and Bree the story (sort of like a narrative like Titanic), the movie is almost all of the first 2 books, narrative ends with Claire coming back through the stones, then about the last 40 minutes or so about her returning and reuniting with Jamie. I'd like the movie reunion to be a little different than the book reunion though. Not that I didn't LOVE the book reunion but for a motion picture it should have a much bigger POW.

Sharon on May 27, 2009

321

Alex,

Read AT LEAST one of the books first…then maybe you'll be in a position to make comments such as the ones you did. The Books in the Outlander Series CAN NOT be compared to a typical 18th Romance Novels. So, get your story straight before you start babbling.

Yuliya on May 29, 2009

322

I think that if these stories could come to the screen, it would be a remarkable achievement. Surely a "Lord of The Rings" type trilogy (at least) would be necessary. I have read every book twice and enjoyed them as much the second time around. For the screen, I first thought Kate Winslet for Brianna, but as the years have gone by, maybe she could suit the role of Clair. Jason Isaacs would certainly fit the role of Jonathan Randall For Jamie, Sean Bean was my first choice. Ewan McGregor in the role of Roger MacKenzie maybe. Keira Knightly, absolutely not for either Clair or Brianna, not enough oomph. I think there is a part for Clive Owen in there somewhere too. I just hope that if this movie/movies ever arrives, it is as true to the books as is humanly possible. The stories are just too good to minimalise.

Tricia on May 31, 2009

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tricia….
we seem to be on the same wavelength….regarding the nature of the "screening" of this wonderful saga. I am an historian….by choice…..I can't tell you how much this is an historical 'TOUR DE FORCE' Not just a "romance"
I agree wholeheartedly with the casting of characters….for claire and others…..however….for jamie…it has to be someone Scottish…..it HAS to be.
Consider braveheart….. a wonderful movie…by any standards….(not historically accurate)…but a great movie…and Mel Gibson…wonderful to play William Wallace…. But the accent…let him down badly…
Now the character of jamie…is not just an accent…as we fans all know…..this is why all of us females are so in love with him….Can a man be that perfect???? well…just ask Loghaire…did she think Jamie perfect???? no she didn't….
It is all about the charisma between claire and jamie…that makes him appear so perfect….
Ohhh god…I pity the casting director…who makes the final choice….He/she…will not please everyone….alas alack…..sigh….
I am waiting with bated breath….more for the next book…Echo in the Bone…..than the movie….
The greatest part that is played in this epic series…is ones own imagination!!!!
I have a vivid picture…in my own mind…..
I am not at all sure it wouldn't be spoilt by someone casting this with "pretty famous people" because of their drawcard….
I continue to watch the comments as they come up…..
ciao for now
Ros

ros on May 31, 2009

324

I would love to see Henry Ian Cusick (Desmond from Lost) as Jamie. His hair is the wrong color, but that can be fixed.

Amanda on May 31, 2009

325

Amanda, I would write your answer with a little change:

"I would love to see Josh Holloway (Sawyer from Lost) as Jamie. His hair is the wrong color, but that can be fixed."

He's Jamie in my mind while I'm reading!

Lilly on May 31, 2009

326

A friend of mine was obsessed with the Outlander series, that's what put me off from reading it myself lol, I came across it years later as an audiobook and I must say… it is wonderful! Yes there's "romance" but there's so much more, the characters are so well written as to seem real. The historical background, the supporting characters, the book has it all!
I would love to see the series made into a movie. Sometime ago I was looking through a magazine and came across a picture (I don't watch TV so had no idea who I was looking at of a man and thought…that's the guy who should play Jamie Fraser if the movie ever gets made. It was a picture of Kevin McKidd from Grey's Anatomy. As I mentioned I don't watch TV and have never seen an episode but as far as looks… he's it, in my opinion. He's young enough to play both parts, young Jamie and Jamie twenty years later. As far as Claire, I really have no idea but I'm rooting for the movie to be made and not ruin the book for all of us converts!

Karo on Jun 1, 2009

327

A lot of these are great suggestions, but I still dont think any of the ones for Jamie are hunky enough! He needs to be more beefy!!! I cant say I would mind if it was Robt. Pattinson, but I think he should be much bigger. I'm ready for the movie though!!!!

Amy on Jun 2, 2009

328

BY THE WAY, this is the closest I've gotten to belief that a movie will be made. Anyone heard anything (besides that production should be begin spring of 2009)? It's June of 2009 and I havent heard anything.

Amy on Jun 2, 2009

329

Alot of people say that Jamie must not be beautiful. But why? It is mentioned so often that he is beautiful, in the Outlander Series as well as in the Lord John Novels. Gerard Butler would be so right and perfect for the post-Culloden Jamie. For the young Jamie I would suggest Robert Pattinson(fuck Twilight btw ;)he can do so much more than this) or Rupert Friend. They both have quite the looks and can play very good…they could do it. For Claire…well, Nadia Fares has the perfect face and body. But thats all I know about her. + she's french, so … but she would make an awesome Claire -at least visually.
For Brianna I think that Kristanna Loken would be the perfect choice…yeah, shes just perfect…right body, right size, shes got the strength and the beauty. She could do that…yeah…

Lisa on Jun 2, 2009

330

I have to admit I am still reading the series. To say it is basically a Romance novel, is demeaning. Yes there is romance, but there is trials and loss as well. In the first book "Outlanders", you meet the main charactors, and you have a mystery that unfolds with the "Stones"; time travel; the love of man and his home country (Scotland); the heartache of losing not just a war, but homeland, wife and faimly.

The Series is gripping, you keep reading to find out what happens next….you get so involved with all the charactors, wanting to know what happens to them. Dianan Gabaldon is a great writer and I am excited to see her books come to the big screen, I hope you can do them justice. To take anything away from the books would be a sin and a cheap shot.

The best way to have a good opinion of the "Outlanders" Series is to pick them up and read for yourself. Don't think that just because there is romance in the novel that only women would be interested in it, for the wars and survival of the men and women in the books are just as important.
Don't take my word or anyone elses, read the books for yourself, and if they do make a movie or two from the series (and stay true to the books) I would be first in line to buy them on DVD!!

Helen Tvrdy on Jun 2, 2009

331

I can't believe I am sitting here writing down names of potential actors for the first (hopefully) movie of this series! Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series is my all time favorite…I've read them all and I agree…"Romance" is not the correct genre. (I have NEVER been a romance fan!). But I love the relationships…and I was hooked from the get-go the chemistry between Clair and Jaime… I have read and re-read the whole series, and gone back and collected the whole series in hard-cover. I search again and again for the next book in the series, and I look forward to seeing a rendition on the big screen!

Donna on Jun 6, 2009

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All the fuss about the genre of this series of books. Some of the classics were categorized as “historical romances” – think with Gone With the Wind for one. The du Maurier books, for example. Absolutely nothing wrong with having some romance in a book that’s otherwise filled with historically significance events done with the painstaking accuracy that is Gabaldon’s trademark. Except, of course, the Book Snobs will look down on any history written in fiction format. They’re like the TV Snobs that you have all met at one time or another – the “But I just never watch TV, except for Public TV, of course” people. But anyone who has ever read these books can tell you, they can in no way be lumped in with the bodice rippers. In fact, when Outlander first came out, some book critics reviewed it as Science Fiction because of the time travel! As for casting, I give up. I like Kate Winslet for Claire but Jamie almost defies casting. He has to be tall, built strong, be handsome of face. Do not cast someone short, I don’t care how cute he is or if he’s Scottish. One of Jamie’s characteristics is that he always stood taller than most everyone else around him. I’ve read with interest many of the suggestions for Jamie but the truth is that I cannot picture anyone suggested or think of anyone myself who is up to Jamie’s perfection. It’s too bad that cloning a younger Liam Neesom isn’t possible.

Beverly on Jun 6, 2009

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I've been saying it for years that these books would make a great movie series. The Outlander series is not just a romance novel, it has historic value, not to mention Claire's knowlege of medicine. The books are really humerous too. I've found myself laughing while reading them. The characters are well developed also. The offshoot of the Lord Melton books are also very good. These books cand and do appeal to the male genre, since historically men were the rulers of the world in that time. The battles and day to day trials to survive the rule of the English in Scotland is definitely a page turner. I remember leaving Outlander at my desk and going to lunch. My co-worker, Steve, picked it up and started reading it. When I returned I told him he could finish reading it, and that there work more sequels to that one. Steve went with his wife to Barne's and Nobles to get the next Outlander book. Steve and his wife were amused to discover that it was listed in the Romance section. Jamie Fraser is a 007 from another time. I cannot wait to see it when it premieres.

CLK on Jun 9, 2009

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Outlander (and sequels) is one of my all-time favorite novels. Yeah, yeah, it has romance and kissy stuff, but it's not a chick book. My dad really liked it, too, and you can rest assured he is a manly man. The time period; location; history–social, political, warfare; and the characters are wonderfully written. You find yourself not reading a book, so much as experiencing what happened. Please read the book before you see the film. This is one like The Bourne Identity where so much goes on in someone's thoughts or motivations that cannot be captured sufficiently on screen. The best movies of all goe on inside our heads when our imaginations kick in. I hope the film does justice to the printed word.

Debbie on Jun 9, 2009

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in response to commentor Mark who believes Outlander sounds "gay" (let's ignore for a moment the offensive use of his ignorant homosexual pegoratives): Outlander is nothing like Ever After; it's filled with adventure, politics, battles, etc. Yes, romance is a part of it, but by no means the only part. These are not cheesy romance novels. They're historical fiction novels and true to their genre they are saturated with historical events such as the battle of Culloden. I'd advise reading them before you judge.

Laura on Jun 14, 2009

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Firstly, we are severely lacking good historical, Scottish movies. The Highlands were full of adventure, passion, fiesty hearts and men and women bent on saving what they loved. Apart from Rob Roy and Braveheart, Scotland is not the center of any really good movies.

To begin with, I was reluctant to read "Outlander" due to the fact that I hate romance novels. After picking the book up though… I can attest that Diana Gabaldon is an author that brings her words to life and yet keeps the book moving and flowing forwards. There is romance, yes… but there is also intrigue, history, folklore, adventure, incredible swordsmanship scenes, passion, true events and a story line unlike any other movie out there.

This book is more than just love and a time traveler, this book brings alive so many hearts because of its ability to strike at the heart and soul of women and men. It depicts what every woman wants to be: treasured, desired, longed for, rescued. To play an irreversible role (in two places and times non the less!) and to be apart of a great adventure. For a man it brings alive the rush of battles, sword fighting, saving the sassenach beauty and taking dominion over a passionate and beautiful woman! This isnt just the typical historical novel or the stereotypical romance novel… this is something, that if done well, will become an all time favorite.

The only things that I would keep in mind while selecting actors… Jamie is young yet strong, commanding, handsome, SCOTTISH, passionate, deliberate and a romantic heart. Claire is older, beautiful, has curly hair, determined, resolute, fiesty, damned to be triffled with and a zealous woman who has seen her share of blood and gore.
If you choose actors because of their current appeal, their personal looks or their past movies, you could ruin the movie and have the book readers against watching it. But if you pick actors that characterize the main characters and go for authentic ability to capture Jamie and Claire, you will have a beloved treasure. Take your time in locating authentic actors (no matter how small their names now) and hand select the right actors. Gerard Butler, despite the fact that I love him and he is handsome, is NOT the right guy for the job. He is too old and he is Irish. All the other suggestions that I have seen have been too wussy, too fake, too girlie, too lame, too boring, too wrong for the part. Take time to read the novel and get a feel for the characters, they jump right off the pages to you anyway! Then go to Scotland and search for Jamie. Claire will come easier once you have your Jamie.

Paiseley on Jun 15, 2009

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these books are majorly addictive, not just once, but over and over again…
they've got romance yes, but hot passionate sex, betrayal, brutal wars, espionage, epic family storylines with historical ties…Diana Gabaldon is fantastic and I really hope that the movies stay true to her writing. If is ain't broke…and all that

melanie on Jun 16, 2009

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I'm a 25 year old male. My wife begged me for close to 3 years to read the books. After I finally got around to it, I couldn't stop reading them. Gabaldon is a master of storytelling. The main characters are full of depth and personality. Jamie is a man's man. He's an educated, thoughtful warrior/laird/husband/father that knows the proper way to balance democracy with brutality. Claire is a good balance for him. Always copassionate and strong willed, with as much, if not more humor than Jamie. In short these are two of the best characters I've ever seen, be it book or movie.

This should be a good series of movies. My only concern is that so much is packed into the books that an accurate telling of the story will be difficult to achieve in a movie. If the situation involving Jack Randall at Wentworth isn't handled very, very well, a lot of people will be put off to going to see "Dragonfly in Amber". As it stands I had a hard time getting through that part of the book. It was disturbing.

To all guys skeptical about this: take it from me. If you enjoy reading, you have to read this series. In short, this is one of the best stories ever put to paper. Don't be fooled into pegging it as a romance. It has romance in it, but it's properly balanced by action, mystery, history, drama, etc.. Ultimately it's the story of the life of an 18th century Scottish Highland warrior and his 20th century Brittish wife, who is trained in modern medicine. Considering how many wounds Jamie takes from brawling, soldiering, and homesteading, this was a perfect match. Please, read the books.

Tom on Jun 16, 2009

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@ paiseley
I loved reading your comment and I agree with most of what you've written. There is only one thing - yes, Gerard Butler is too old for the young Jamie…but he is indeed scottish and not irish. His family has an irish background, but he is scottish-and proud of it
cheers

Lisa on Jun 17, 2009

340

I am just stumbling onto the Outlander series and am absolutely -dying- to get to Dragonfly in Amber, which I will be going to get first thing in the morning. I cannot even begin to fathom how a feature length film can be made of this book. It definately needs at least a 12-hour mini-series on cable, or something. Better yet, turn it into a series, like True Blood. Two hours would not nearly be enough and I fear we lovers of Jamie and Claire would be sorely disappointed. It happened to me with Stephen King's "The Stand". As for who should play them, I have -no- clue who could do them justice. Although Ray Park, who played Darth Maul in Star Wars- Episode 1 would be a good choice, he's a big guy, but I don't know what his accent is like. Someone mentioned Kevin McKidd, too, from Grey's Anatomy, but he's a bit too old for the part. Heath Ledger would've made a good Jamie. Jamie is only 24. As for Claire, no idea. None at all. I always picture Jack Randell to look like Jason Isaacs' character William Tavington in The Patroit. He's who I think of when I think of Bad Guy/English Officer/Smarmy Bastard. Duuno why. Always have. Anyway, that's my two-cents. Thanks!

Beth on Jun 17, 2009

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As much as I LOVE this series of books, I would hate to see it made trashy by turning it into a movie.
The first book alone is worthy of a mini-series at the very least. There is no way any director could possibly make this and have it turn out anything close to the book.
I think Hollywood would just ruin it. This series is way to special to mess with.
As for calling it a "romance novel" , I have to disagree. It is much more in the science fiction line to me.
To me it is one of the best, well written series there is, ad I can't see any of todays actresses, or actors as being close to pulling off the characters of Jamie and Claire. There are just none good enough.

Jo Vaughn on Jun 18, 2009

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From What I've noticed around the web, The Outlander Series is: based apon the success of the first movie going to be a series. The Company bought the rights and they cando what they want to with the proptery. So far this movie appears to be the first of a series.
It would explain alot of things after all.
1. the secret filming location.
2. the reason for going with Young actors, they cangrow and age with the series.
3. By buying a well knowen series they have a product thats good for several films.
4.They are able to keep a set # of persons with good steady jobs for several years.
It takes many people to make one film if they work on a series,Its just that much better.
5. We stay with the films awaiting the next part of the series.
they are working hard to make the best product possible that's easy to see by the well-knowen names which are being associated with the Outlander project.

About what Dianna's books are: The Library of Congress lists them as Sci Fi.

Vickie on Jun 18, 2009

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last month i started to read the Outlander series. I just happened to grab the book off the shelf and i started to read. I couldn't put it down though. Within a week, i was done and searching for the next book. It took me three days per book. At the moment i am reading The Fiery Cross. Diana Gabaldon is a genius. The Outlander books are my favorite series. All i can hope for is to find my own James Fraser. A great novel of love, proving that it can withstand anything, even time.
I would LOVE to see Outlander has a movie. I would buy the tickets now if i could. The only problem with the movie would be the actors/actresses and the fact that some movies don't stick to the book as much as they would (that and Outlander is a bit detailed in the love scenes…) either way, if they do make it a movie, i am so seeing it, no matter what.

katie on Jun 19, 2009

344

I have read EVERY book in this series 3 times. Can't WAIT to see it on the screen.

j on Jun 20, 2009

345

I agree with a great many of your correspondants. This could be a great movie if done right but could be so easily ruined as was the case with Twilight. The wrong director and/or actors can break a movie faster than anything else. I've been enjoying the series very much. Although of the wrong coloring, ie;hair & es, I keep thinging of Stephan Bonnet being played by Johnny Depp. He seems able to capture a certain amount of evil while still being able to entrance the unwary. As for the other characters, I watch so little television and see so few movies that I cannot think who could best portray Claire, Jamie, Bree and Roger. Are there that many six foot and taller actors around? After all, a six foot six, slender but muscular redhead is probably as rare as a man like Jamie Fraser himself.

Patrysha on Jun 22, 2009

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OMG! I am so excited! What i recently found out about the stories is that so many of the people and events are/were real. It is amazing how Diana worked them all together to fit so seamlessly. My favorite scene is where Claire goes back to Jamie after Frank dies and she finds Jamie in the printing shop. I read it over and over every time i read/listen to the books.
Kate Winslet for Claire I think, but as we all know Diana has said she has absolutely no say over casting. I think maybe Gerard Butler for Jamie. He used to have a crooked smile, i am pretty sure he has braces and his smile is more straight now and very attractive, but still a manly man. Well to me any way!
I just hope they stay true to the stories and don't use a lot of "dramatic license" and ruin it.
Sabrina

Sabrina on Jun 23, 2009

347

I am one of those who have read the whole series 2 times through, and will read the whole thing again before starting the new book coming in September. I have also read the Lord John series. Not as impressed with those, but then they were so short compared to the Outlander books that they just couldn't stand up to the standard set there.
I think a mini-series would be required, or at least two movies, to give any kind of justice to these books. Maybe putting the setting for movie one in Scottland, and movie two in America would work. It would be wonderful if they could use relative unkowns (unknown at least in the USA) for the actors so you are not thinking through the whole movie of the other characters they have portrayed. Using Johnny Depp as Bonnett, a pirate character?? Talk about type-casting!

Patty on Jun 25, 2009

348

It's more of a HIGHLANDER meets DIE HARD movie set in the 18th century Europe… And IF, (And that's a Big IF) the Script is written in a way to convey the true temperament & disposition of the novle …I mean Sure there are love sense, but there is a heck of a lot more action in the book then love’n BY FAR…

Mal on Jun 26, 2009

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I made a typo in post 342 It should say: the success of the Outlander series is behind the making of the film.

Vickie on Jun 27, 2009

350

Outlander and its sequels are the most fascinating, absorbing, interesting, and romantic sagas that have come along in a long long time. Diana Gabaldon is a born writer, imaginative, creative, and fills her books with one adventurous event after another without missing a beat. I have read the entire series several times, and that is a lot of reading as if you've seen her books, they are all somewhat lengthy, but never ever boring. This lady can write. Fiction does not usually grab me, but due to the historical information woven into the story and the memorable characters you can't help but fall in love with, I was swept away by this series. Now, that FINALLY the story will hit the big screen I am truly looking forward to seeing it - as well as buying the DVD's. I hope the production will do justice to Ms. Gabaldon's writing in the screen iversion of the story. Outlander and its sequels will make Gone With the Wind - just that, gone, with the wind. There is no comparison between the two. Claire and Jamie make Scarlet and Rhett look small in comparison to their "bigger than life" characters and story. As for the movie - bring it on!!! I'm not getting any younger (I'm pushing 77). P.S. Gerard Butler is a talented and dedicated actor - he would be a great Jamie.

Mona on Jun 27, 2009

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Well, after all, by the end of 3rd book, Jaimie is already in his 40s, so Gerard Butler would be perfect then. All we need is a look-alike for the younger Jaimie and voila! Let us hope that "they" don't butcher OUTLANDERl as was done with Michael Crichton's TIMELINE. Talk about a waste of time!

Anyone who has read the series more than once should seriously consider listening to it on audio - Davina Porter does a fabulous rendition. Most likely available at your library.

sybil garrison on Jun 28, 2009

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I LOVE the books. To me it's one the those that I just can't put down. You have everything here to make this a fantastic movie. You have a villian that Jamie isn't allow to kill because of the dire request of Claire (you'll find out why). You have a love story that beats all time (modern day husband vs. Jamie Fraser). You have all the politics and upheval of the 1700's. It's really, really a good book series.

Rochelle on Jun 28, 2009

353

Has anybody found out any more on these series being a film? I can't get any definite information from the web sites. Here's my take: Can't see Kevin McKidd as Jamie at all. Totally didn't visualize Jamie this way. I do see Robert Pattinson or Jason Lewis as somebody that would make good Jamie (they have to have a young good looking actors, but also have to have a rough/tough look about them )- also, I see Alexa Davalos or Nadia Farres as Claire. Either would make perfect Claire.

jae on Jun 30, 2009

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Actually the filming should start in spring (which is over by now). I fear that the movie wont happen in the near future…I mean, the last time we got news was in October 2008, right? So what happened? Maybe they couldn't find a proper director or have trouble financing the project…I hope that they'll manage to make the movie soon…

Lisa on Jul 1, 2009

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I find it hard to believe that the movie will ever be made. First of all the man wanting to produce it has never read the books. And as Dianna has said , she has received many offers to have the books turned into a movie. I think it would be too expensive for one thing and finding the right people to play the characters is another.
On another note, I can't wait for the book to come out this September.

Theresa on Jul 2, 2009

356

It would be "exciting" to see Outlander (series) on screen and better as a mini series IMO. However, speculating which actors would fit the bill is difficult at best unless you are in the "biz". It is unlikely that all the actors previously mentioned would appear in one movie. Many of the characters, important as they might be to the story line (especially to us die hard fans), would likely be minor roles in a movie and therefore likely to be portrayed by "unknown actors", if not left out altogether. Regardless of what turns out on screen (if anything) I accept that nothing will be as good as my own mind's visual that has been spun with "Herself's" talent, time, creativity, patience, etc etc. I also encourage those of you who haven't had an opportunity to listen to the audiobooks to run to your library now and make sure you don't get the Abridged version. Davina Porter is fabulous. I am member of Audible.com and was able to purchase many of the books for a reasonable cost and download to my iPod. Great to exercise or do housework to. Also looking forward to to September:-)

Laura on Jul 2, 2009

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please oh please do not put robert pattinson as jamie fraser - jamie is a big man in both height and build, with a commanding presence that bot men and women alike respond to - Robert pattinson is nice enough looking and quite tall - but i bet he would fit in my jeans!!!! (i`m a sz 10), knock a few inches off him though and he would make a great Lord John?

nichola ward on Jul 2, 2009

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Is there a petition that's going around that perhaps we can sign to support this to be made into big screen? If not, can somebody make it- not sure where it would be sent to???? But I really think if they do it right, it could make a lot of money for them (kind of like Lord of the Rings- that was a HUGE hit)- As far as rob pattinson, yes I agree, he is way too skinny… he would have to really beef up for jamie's role (Brad Pitt was able to do it in Troy)… I just think rob has the look of gentleness (the way Jamie looks at claire)- but rob could be rough looking as well with the bristles and wild "reddish" hair (for when jamie is the protector and the warrior)- but really, if this is to be made a movie, they probably couldn't afford the big name actors/actresses- they'd have to find some "unknowns" with talent- which I think could work. I just love the books and to actually get some visuals for some of the scenes would be absolutely amazing!

jae on Jul 2, 2009

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At first I wanted Gerard Butler to play Jamie. Not now. Think about it Gerard is tall, dark, green eyes and Scottish-who fits that description???
Anyway, i think these series of books would do better as a major mini series on HBO. When i started reading them I immediately thought of North and South. In my opinion that would be best because you could get every little story in and every character.

Sabrina on Jul 3, 2009

360

No matter how they do it, it will never do justice to the writing genius of Diana Gabaldon and her avid readers' imaginations.

Dana on Jul 3, 2009

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I just hope that if and when this movie gets made that they read the above comments so they know that they have to get it right or they are going to piss off a lot of people.
The characters, the complexity, will all be ruined if this goes Hollywood. Unknown actors, real countryside, patiently laying out the complexities, I doubt whether they movie makers have the maturity for this, or think that we do. We DON'T want Claire beamed back to Scotland Star Trek style, nor do we want it flashy. We want it REAL, because that is what engrossed us in the books to the point of distraction. When they were done, we would look up vaguely depressed and shrug and think, "now what are we going to do? how can you follow that??" and then sometimes just started the whole thing over again. Kind of pathetic sounding, but honestly, it was kind of like a drug, you'd rather be there.

Let's hope Diana gets to cast, she's the only one with the right, if it was Keira Knightly I don't think I could even stand to go.

Julie Reid on Jul 3, 2009

362

There is an Outlander movie listed on IMDb for 2011 release. The status right now has it as "in development". Details on the listing below:

Production Co: Essential Entertainment
Genre: Drama / Fantasy / Romance / Sci-Fi
Summary: A British nurse visiting Scotland in 1945 stumbles upon a time portal that transports her to the 18th Century.
Source Material: Novel

Filmmakers: Diana Gabaldon - Writer (novel), Randall Wallace - Writer (screenplay), Neil Kaplan - Producer, Jim Kohlberg - Producer

Eryn on Jul 3, 2009

363

PS: Tahmoh Penikett has my vote for Jamie Fraser. His mouth even curls up at the ends.

http://tahmohpenikett.blogspot.com/

Eryn on Jul 3, 2009

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OMG! Tahmoh Penikett IS Jamie! How did you fine that guy? I had never heard of him but he is perfect (in my mind) So, we have Jamie and Roger. I kinda like Kate Winslet or that Anna Friel who was with Gerard in Timeline for Claire.
Ok, lets insist that WE the fans have a say in the casting. Anyone have Diana's phone number?

Sabrina on Jul 3, 2009

365

Replies to Eryn and Sabrina posts: I, too, had suggested Tahmoh Penikett earlier. He’s very tall like Jamie, about 6 foot four inches and really a hunk. Not to mention gorgeous. He’s not a name star like Gerard Butler but does have a really solid fan base from Battlestar Galactica and has enough experience to have some good acting chops. Rent the series on Netflix and check him out. It’s the new one, not the old 1980’s series. Also, he was on a series on Fox (I think it’s Fox) called The Dollhouse and I’m pretty sure it’s been renewed for the coming Fall, so you might check him out on that.

beejay on Jul 3, 2009

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beejay - I've seen Dollhouse and thought he was gorgeous but never even thought of him as Jamie until I read your post and now totally agree with you.

I think having someone who is less famous play the part(s) is the smarter way to cast. Have that actor become Jamie or Claire etc. Look at Robert Pattinson in Twilight - he IS Edward because he wasn't really anybody else before. If Gerard Butler was to play Jamie (and f#*k, yes he's HOT) it would just be another role for him. Plus, everyone needs to remember that there is a budget involved. The studio cannot cast an A-lister in every role and still have money left over to actually film the movie.

Eryn on Jul 4, 2009