Show Business: New Notes from an Old Cello

At 79, John Gielgud is the hottest young talent around

Question: Is it possible to make a movie or TV series without John Gielgud? Answer: Yes. But it is not easy.

Since 1980 his face has been seen on more screens than the MGM lion. Famous to serious theatergoers for more than 50 years, the reserved, sometimes frosty-appearing Gielgud has, in his 70s, suddenly assumed a new role—that of Major Movie Star. "Isn't it amazing?" he exclaims, as surprised and delighted as anyone else who has suddenly hit the jackpot. "It's the most...