Colin Firth (Part 4)

Ladies, looks like 1999 posts are our limit. Let's see how long it takes to fill this one up. I second Winter's comment that Evelyn seized the moment. She remembered that he puts his pants on one leg at a time like the rest of us. She took care of us and Colin took care of her. Good girl! Poor Karen did stay up most of two nights with the "If only I had said that" syndrome. Yet she had the most significant conversation with him of all of us. I think Bethan's suggestion that you write your thoughts on both shows is a great one. Even if you don't mail it, you may feel better. Lizza, flowers for Saturday's performance is a terrific idea. I have 25 ponds left I'd love to send. And this is from EVERYONE at Spring. My e-mail can take pictures (I think). I'll take them from anyone. Thanks.

Thank you my dear!!! You are surely speedy!

BTW, those of you who got the very cheery smiling group picture, please thank Sabine for a job incredibly well done! It is lovely!

My e-mail can take pictures . I'll take them from anyone. Thanks. That goes for me too. ******* Heide, I have a winner for you.....got 'em developed today. You and Colin look gorgeous....definitely must be scanned. I will send copy to Karen. ******* In the Not-Very -Good -News- Department: Yesterday I talked to my contact at the bank that owns SLOW. The film was screened at the American Film Market (AFM) which has held in santa Monica Feb 25-March 5. This is the largest motion picture market in the world. Over 7000 people attend. Sadly SLOW did not sell. Believe me, the bank is just as despondent as we.So, we are back to square one!!There were some good reports when the film was shown at the Black Film Festival at Martha's Vineyard last summer.Wonder where the hang -up is..... ***** Gi, I enjoyed Antonio's report immensely.Thank him for me.A real prince. ***** Someone posted that I had asked EMcG. for an autograph......wrong.I did not. I asked her if she was from a southern state. My objection was that she was so inconsistent with her accent. And I did not find her smile so beguiling. ***** Memorable Moment: When Colin sits on the railing in a Rodin's "The Thinker" pose.The shadow effect is mesmerizing.

This was sent to me via Email by someone who wants to join us so much it hurts: I don't know if you received my last two e-mails explaining my HOPELESSLY TRAGIC absence from Drool -(her kids and AOL have messed her up but I -marcia-will help her!). How is it possible that I cannot express my absolute bliss to all those incredibly lucky gals? I feel like a blind person in an art gallery. Marcia, they TOUCHED HIM!!!!! they TALKED TO HIM!!!! You are right - we are now out of that magic loop and I'm even classified lower as a sub-human lurker who can't even make her presence known to all the glorious ones. I MUST SEE THAT GROUP PHOTO SOMEHOW. I'm sorry... I'm babbling now. Just reading those posts had me laughing out loud with sheer joy. Can't you imagine just how wonderful it would have been!!!???? As I said before, I am not shy in the least and I'll bet I would have finagled a kiss out of the deal - don't worry...something chaste. And my caro sposo would be taking that picture Oh, Marcia....I don't even feel worthy of asking any one of them to e-mail me their photos. I even understand how some of the gals would be reluctant to have their face on the net. I'm soo glad they changed their minds about being included. Yet, I would never presume to have them feel comfortable about contacting a complete stranger like me who is too dumb to even figure out the rudiments of posting! I only pray that I will be able to access the private site Renate talked of setting up just to have a secluded photo gallery. (I forwarded Gi's and Sabine's to her) AAAHHHHH, he is so talented just as we knew all along. And tell them they musn't worry about his hair loss. In about four years a new treatment will have passed scrutiny and baldness will be eradicated!!! The FDA is investigating some kind of gene altering deal that will unlock the secret of hair growth and everyone will be able to grow anything they want - whatever color, texture - you name it!. I'm trying to think of questions to ask through you - - if you wouldn't mind? Pretty much everything has been covered what with all those rapture inspiring reports from so many eye witnesses. I am curious to find out who was there from RoP. You would think they'd all be wearing name tags. It is so funny to visualize all these different groups of women from various Colin Firth fan websites on the net descending upon him at the same time! "Spring over here"....FOFirth get in line....don't follow him out the door, RoP!!! Do you have a problem with his communicating with...ahem, well I can't say "US" since I still am not an oficial drooler WAAAAA!!!!...".you all " on-line? Certainly I would understand any reluctance to have him be a witness to the shameless, but extremely fun, lip smacking, drool slurping lust! But how about all those innocent questions about his career choices that we simply must have answers. Give my love and congratulations to all the lucky ones!!!!! Your e-mail restricted Firth pal, Nathalie R.

Ladies, I usually don't post too much here because I'm somewhat shy but just to let you know I've been coming here for almost two years now and I must say that I'm so proud of everyone and I'm so happy that you all had such a great time in London. I know some of you are frustrated because you wish you had said something different to CF but I think that you all were perfect! I only wish that I could have been there with you to share in the fun! I would've loved to have met Colin in person, because I'll et he is ten times more handsome in person than in movies! I'll just have to pray that he does theatre again soon! Thanks for the encouragement Marcia! I'll try to get on the ball with all of the drooling! :)

Oh.... come on you lurkers...you're family too! This is an equal opportunity board, and having an "in" crowd vs. "out" crowd is just all in your dear heads! I've had a lovely week as one of the Firthless, and it was because of the good company I was able to find here on the boards. There is no hierarchy here on the boards. We are all part of a family-- some people have seen him, some people haven't, but that doesn't determine how well each of us admire him. As many have said time and again, those who haven't seen him in the flesh help to keep our admiration for him alive. To be honest, I was considering dropping from these boards entirely after I had my little encounter with CF. But, this community, with its regulars and newbies and occasional delurkers--had me coming back for more. Will we all squeal with delight when someone posts the latest article or picture of him here? Of course! We always do, don't we? And it never has to do with who's met him and who hasn't... Hope I made sense. I just felt this urgency to respond,even though I'm about ready to dose off here....

Ok ladies. I seem to be the only one awake at this hour (7:30 pm Hawaiian Standard Time) and I agree with Winter that all lurkers must "out" if they are able, and those stuck with AOL dismal excuse for a browser, download Netscape and get with it!!! Stacey! Welcome!! Delighted with your post. Ten times more handsome! Could we stand it?! That is why they are beaming in all those pics. Shall I send one or two on to you?

I am compiling a nerdy graph of activity on this board over time. I will post an Excel file soon. It will take us from the birth of the site itself (here play Also Sprach Zarasustra), the burgeoning early days (Peter's music from Peter and the Wolf) through the depths of December ("what's the matter with the idiot - great hands he may have but why isn't he more ambitious?", Chopin funeral march) to the feats of March ("less hair he may have but the boy's a GENIUS!"). I am so glad he turned out to be at least what everyone was expecting. Does someone's face reveal his character, do you think? And, if so, doesn't that make the actor's task all the harder? How well were you able to suspend your disbelief in the audience? Perhaps it is easier in the theatre. Thanks, Bethan, for the JE info. Unfortunately, I wouldn't have the courage of my Spring sisters. Besides, is JE ever on stage? Speaking of actresses, can I ask a provocative question? Thanks. The unfortunate Ms McGovern...is she THAT bad? I'm not a great fan of Le Scarlet Pimp., but I saw glimpses on the telly and she didn't seem THAT awful to me. Can the opprobium have anything to do with her lying next to CF on a bed for some length of time? Or was she genuinely crap? Who WOULD be worthy of joining CF n the bed? JE, I take it, reaches the required standard. Or maybe not? (Evelyn - DO TELL about the film. Any good? And our Jennifer?) Finally, and not so controversially, I was enormously relieved to read that people were only going to Highbury to get boxer shorts. I thought for one horrible moment it was to see the most hateable football team on earth. Nick Hornby may write well, but the book should have been about Liverpool F.C. How could one possibly love the Arse?

Thanks for your post Evelyn. One of the rewards of Spring is that we have all become friends thanks to Colin. At this spa the motto is: the more the merrier.

I must credit Evelyn with the Spring spa idea, I loved it!

Brilliant idea Ben! Let's hope we shall never end with Mozart's Requiem. I assure you that E.M. was off the mark in the Scarlet Pimpernel.

(Ben)The unfortunate Ms McGovern...is she THAT bad? According to my husband she was wonderful.... yukkk.. And our Jennifer? I saw her on "Late Lunch". she was very pretty and looked really nice. Ben, you and Colin obviously share good taste in women.

You guys really do beat up on women! Ms. McGovern was not bad in Le Scarlet Pimpernel. And Emilia Fox (Georgiana) was brilliant! However, Richard E Grant did steal the show! "They seek he heah, they seek him theah, those Frenchies seek him Everywhear" Almost in a Boston accent! Hee heeah! ( Sorry I'm from Boston;))

Thank you everyone for trying to make me feel better (the bruise on the side of my head barely shows with paper sack I've been wearing)! ;-) Actually, Bethan, your idea about writing up my comparison and sending it off to him had occurred to me. Maybe I shall. Now, I've got a better idea: I'd like to go over to the Steppenwolf and talk to the director there (a woman, I'll show her the pics) and see if she would like to promote a unique idea of merging the two casts for a Great Performances broadcast!! Do I have the nerve to do this???? Doubt it! Lizza, had an idea about the flowers for closing night. I'm very theme-oriented (ask anybody who has ever been to my dinner parties!). Since Colin's next w2ork is Donovan Quick, could a florist do something with either a Don Quixote them (windmills, tulips, etc.) or since this one concerns a bus company, a bus (bought a London double-decker bus refrigerator magnet for my sister, hey that's all she wanted!). We could have on the note how much we enjoyed this show but are looking forward to his next prod ction! Something to that effect. Ben, you could come up with far more clever wording. I'm going to work on scanning my pics and getting them uploaded to a private place at Spring. Will let you know when and where to go to view when this is done. Don't expect anything near as professional as what our 3Deers do, but hopefully you will be able to see them! Re: EMcG's performance Ben, she was just plain bad, except for a couple of little sequences as I mentioned before. This is where knowledge of the script and having seen another production come into play. In the first act, she descends from on high--smiling and then proceeds to question Walker about things. All of a sudden, out of nowhere, she yells: "Where have you been?" This character, Nan, is mad. She is really ticked off at Walker. He disappeared. Her husband had a private investigator try to locate him. He left he high and dry. She worried, like as good older sister would. Amy Morton, in Chicago, was silent, sullen. Her rage boiled underneath. When she erupted, it was understandable. When Elizabeth McG did, you hadn't a clue. She smiled throughout. Guess the critics just like that little quivering lip thing. :) More about the two shows later...after this weekend. However, I did want you Ben to understand that jealousy had no real part in this, except for the slithering pelvic move (where I wanted to yank that woman off the bed)! ;-D

LizzaJ asked me to post this: Marcia I have just come off the phone to hear my Mum has been admitted to hospital' so it looks as if I won't be around for a while. Could you let drool know the flowers have gone off and let Renate know there will be a delay in sending my photos and to Elena too. If this is not too much trouble for you to do. I would appreciate it so much, Lizza

Anyone else want Photos Emailed to them that I have not done so? Email me at either address. I would be more than happy (like thrilled and jumping up and down) to receive any of them the rest of you might have to share!

Just to think that a group of us droolers are to see Him tomorrow, it�s so exciting. I�m living it all over again in my mind with them and looking forward to hearing from Renate and Kirsten about the play and what will happen after it. Colin must be as charming to his fans every night. How I wish I could be there again and act like I should this time, say to him ALL the right things in the world (plus make him fall in love with me, elope with me etc., you name it!:-)) (Bethan)has it altered your perception of him....for me he�s still the slightly fantasy-type Darcy figure I knew that seeing him on stage would change my idea of him, not to mention meeting him which I did not expect to at all. That�s what made me doubt the trip beforehand, I was afraid I�d lose my idol by seeing what he really is. Now that I�ve seen him on stage as an excellent and very sexy actor, and off stage as a very friendly and sincere bloke I�ve almost forgotten there was a �Darcy�!(Sorry friends, it is a sacrilege!) He simply was so real and so human and so tangible (like some lucky ladies know!) back there that I can�t think of him as Darcy anymore. Btw, does anyone happen to have a spare copy of the Times review with the picture of Colin and EmcG?

Evelyn, did your friend tell you what the next move is for SLOW. Will the bank sell it to the networks (Lifetime, A&E, BBC--something). My pictures of Colin are being scanned today and I will be able to send them via e:mail. I also have a picture of the entire group at the restaurant if any one is interested. There was one touching story that occurred while we were in London. Apparently a lady from RofP was hit by a bike then almost run over by a cab on Friday so she missed the first night of the performance. I was told she was in her 70's. However, at the Saturday night performance I remember seeing her on the steps just above me and Elena with her arm in a cast or wrapped up talking to CF. He was thanking her for coming and sorry that she got hurt. Isn't he just the sweetest. Also, I'd like to hear about the faucet incident while CF was performing on stage.

hi to all im male from finland my email are kari.dahlberg@kolumbus.fi

Lizza, sad to hear about your mum. Don�t worry about the flowers & pics now. Jana, you did HEAR what he said to that lady with her hand in a bandage? I regret I could hear no words, only saw him talk to her and her friend, smiling very sympathetically. I guess I was in too much of a shock by then to hear anything, knowing that he was bound to come our way next! .....Jana, I�d love to have some email photos, I�ll send you some too in case you can hande them in JPG form?

It sounds like a great time was had by one and all, how I envy you. I sounds like the reports that have been written about how nice he is and unconceited are all true. Heidi, you lucky dog. I'm afraid if that had been me I might have done a very childish thing. Thanks to everyone for the great accounts of your adventures, it has mad my day after spending the night in the hospital getting a blood transfusion

Marcia, you must help Nathalie learn to post, enough of this living vicariously, and we'd all love to have her contribution to the communal think-tank! Evelyn, your report was fantastic. How all these reports and comments have prolonged the party! And thank you for your praise of Antonio. Ben, you are too funny! How could one possibly love the Arse? My dear, many people love arses, depends on whose they are ;-) Karen I may be the only one to disagree, but I would not send that essay to him. I don't know, it's just me, it doesn't seem like a good idea. I'm ok with people saying my work is better than other people's, but I don't think I woul appreciate the obsessive work of someone detailing the differences. Please don't be hurt or offended, anyone, it's just a gut feeling, I may be entirely wrong. About the flowers: shall we try and choose the words, in the few days we have till Saturday?

Well, the flowers have been taken care of - Lizza, all the best to your Mum! I'm interested in everybody's photos, preferably the prints but, if it is too much too ask, .jpgs are fine! Lucie, I hope it's nothing too serious! Kari, hallo, pleased to have you here, tell us things! Have you reads our posts? Since there has been a debate about this - tell us how you found us!

Jana I sent you an e-mail at the address listed her, asking for pictures, but it was refused.

Sorry Lucie, I'm using my computer at work and it doesn't have the right address. My address at home is jclark@azstarnet.com and work is jclark@vq.com. I loved to send you the photos--you can email me at either address.

Jana (jcjc) your Email here does not work. Send me a request for your pics. I have lovely ones of you and the group from Gi and Sabine!!!

Since we've decided not to post most pictures here, some kind of like these:

Ben, lest you think we Americans trotted off to England to act half our ages and behave like groupies, some of us went on a literary tour! We roamed around Notting Hill in search of Bridget haunts, Islington/Highbury for the sites of those stellar Nick Hornby books (and Nick Hornby himself), and of course, an off-West End Play. How highbrow can you get??? ;-p Sorry to hear about Lizza. Hope your mom gets well soon.

My dear Karen, I think nothing of the sort. Anyway, it was more of a gallop than a trot. My only concern was that the Hornby books might have seduced anyone into supporting Arsenal. Best wishes to Lizza.

If I have neglected someone who emailed me and sent only one pix when you wanted them all, let me know. It gets quite confusing sometimes &^)

Karen, Lovely picture. Whose sainted pen is he innoculating with Firthoplasm? If it does not belong to him, but to one of the Spring ladies, should not it be considered a true keepsake and go on the CF list. There is only one item there and it is his necktie.

He signed my program with ared ink pen who belonged to someone from Spring, who I'm sure will treasure it forever! Another thing: I just came in to Drool through the front door (sometimes I do that)and lo and behold! Tumbledown has been replaced, and the new topic is announced in a way that had me ROTFLMHO! I will not say more, but go see it! I don't remember whose husband had coined the phrase, but it is brilliant!:-)))

Evelyn and Karen (and everyone else), thanks for your reports! You have all done us proud. Don't know why, but I'm so glad that Colin now knows: (1) His Internet fans are a bunch of wonderful, sophisticated, intelligent people; (2) We (well, you) came from all over the world to see him; and (3) We're interested in his work, not lurid details of his personal life. Also, echoing Eileen, thanks to all the other homebound droolers whose commiserations made this past weekend so bearable. Finally, to the ladies who are attending this weekend, have a great time and here's hoping you too get to meet Colin:-)

Come back and hit the reload, Eileen!

(Gi)He signed my program with an ink pen who belonged to someone from Spring, who I'm sure will treasure it forever. He signed your program and several others with MY PEN (Cross)....and I�ll wrestle anyone to the ground who touches it!!Keepsake....no way!!. But don�t begrudge me...I DIDN�T get an autograph....didn�t want one....wanted a pic and I got it!!!Would love to have it signed.Have to work on that strategy. ********* (Jana)Evelyn, did your friend tell you what the next move is for SLOW. Will the bank sell it to the networks (Lifetime, A&E, BBC--something). No options. All the cable distributors were there....I was hoping HBO would pick it up...no such luck.I�ll call back . A real bummer. ***** (Bethan)has it altered your perception of him....for me he�s still the slightly fantasy-type Darcy figure. Bethan...I�m having a problem here....have viewed P&P several times to get the ole feeling back. Funny, it didn�t happen when I met Jennifer. *******

(Ben)Evelyn - DO TELL about the film. Any good? And our Jennifer? Thank you Ben....but what took you so long to ask!! Hate to post off topic unless someone requests. I saw the 1PM show for you and the 6PM show with K&H... The film is billed as the best British romantic comedy of the year.A group of early thirtysomethings/late twenty somethings in their quest for love, lust, life and survival . (IMO a bunch of losers). Jennifer plays Sophie, single mum, lives on a barge in Camden Town...a rich rebel, public school educated....wears a nose stud and dreadlocks.There are some v. funny scenes...In one scene, Sophie gives her nervous new boyfriend (Ian Hart, who starred with her in Backbeat) instruction under the covers and sighs at his lack of expertise.She does comedy v. well. No Lizzy Bennett or Constance Fry here....but always beautiful. What legs that woman has. The downside is that the film dialog is replete with British slang...and most of the actors speak in a Scottish accent. We lost most of the punch lines...but the audiences (mostly young) in both shows were v. responsive. It�s a date movie and has done well at the UK boxoffice. I did not think it would be released in the US, BUT, I read that at the recent American Film Market (where SLOW didn�t make the cut) , This Year�s Love was sold to a US distrib. It has a definite appeal for the young. BTW Ben, I have a tape of Jennifer�s two v. recent TV interviews in UK.I just sent it off to be converted. Bob, the technician, at this point has a real crush of JE and is thrilled to have a new tape!!Did you get a VCR yet? The JE Library will have a copy

Evelyn, it reassuring to know that JE did not affect you as CF did. She does not for me, either lol! But, Darcy can and does any time I pop him in the VCR. It is hopeless. He is SO Darn Gorgeous!!! New Keepersake list? Things of yours CF touched and you get to keep?! Your pen would fall into that rarified category.

(Marcia)Evelyn, it reassuring to know that JE did not affect you as CF did. What I mean is that she is still Lizzie Bennett to me.

But, of course!(LOL!!!) Even with blond hair and nose ring? She does not disappear into her roles? I should not say it that way because I keep looking for Darcy in everything CF does. You are quite right, my dear!

innoculating with Firthoplasm Now there's a happy thought! Evelyn, I can't imagine JE with a nose ring and dreadlocks. She is still Lizzy Bennett for me as well. Karen, how closely did you study his hands? ;-))) Lizza, I hope your mother gets well soon.

Aha! I've tracked you down...I thought the millenium bug had struck over at #116! BTW, recalling our recent competition for a chat up line, I was very impressed by Evelyn's exchange: CF " I hope you're not disappointed" Evelyn "We'll never be disappointed in you, never". Marvellous! But talking of disappointment (and swings and roundabouts) SLOW is a major disappointment. As you say, Evelyn, what a bummer! I really wanted to see this film, but my hopes are fast receeding. It isvery disappointing, especially as SLOW was much liked by the audience at the Martha's Vineyard Festival, and as the other three Handmade films on the same "slate" as SLOW have all been picked up for distribution at earlier AFMs, apparently without any problem. What really disappoints me is that it's no even been picked up by Cable/TV. Sky Movies' Sky Exclusives show a lot of movies which don't get a theatrical release (they recently showed "Judas Kiss" with Alan Rickman and Emma Thompson). Can't understand it. Not even A&E? Perhaps it wouldn't appeal to the very crucial "youth market"?. Too much of a minority film, with its Nigerian screenplay and cast? But it's not a low,low-budget movie at �3.4million, it also stars Nia Long, the cinematographer is very well-known (should look good) and the director is also quite experienced..he did a stint as a merchant banker, but was president of OUDS, directed at the Oxford Playhouse and has made several short commercial films. Why oh why, then...? The only option seems to be straight-to-video, as with "Playmaker". Huh!!! Evelyn, can you keep us informed on this, even if it's bad news. Could it be picked up by British distributor...but I think that since the demise of Polygram we don't really have any distributors! Or could, perish the thought, it just be binned and never released or seen! Can we do anything...form an Action Group to rescue SLOW?! I'd hate to thnk that Christopher Tookey (remember him?) was right. Sorry for my grumpy SLOW diversion, in the midst of all tnis good news! Timeout magazine (London) gave 3DOR an excellent review. "Exemplary direction by Robin LeFevre and smashing performances by all the cast"

Love the new heading for this topic. Arami, do be sure to tell your DH he has been honored! Lizza, hope all is well with your mum. Ben, you're too funny! Loved the music--v. fitting! Has been a bit of a roller coaster ride, huh?

Every now and then I forget my manners... I hope my posting about SLOW doesn't sound too abrupt, but when I'm disappointed, I tend to go into rant mode! There's so much to feel pleased about at the moment, and so I hope I didn't cast a damper on everyone's high spirits! Thank you, Evelyn for being so persistent in checking for news of SLOW. This Year's Love is still doing very well at the Box Office. Lizza, I also hope that all goes well for your mum.

Bethan: I was just talking to a friend of mine who is a producer. I was telling him about SLOW and how it can't find a distributor. He suggested the following: "You can write to the bank and ask them if we can rent SLOW for an evening. You would have to find a major HUB(New York, L.A., London) to show it. If that goes off without a hitch we could then invite the actors to attend the screening by saying: We have been attemtping to see the production of SLOW. We understand that the production comp ny has gone belly up, however, because of the talent involved we are still determined to view it. There will be a special screening of it and we are inviting you to join us, blah blah blah." He gave an estimate of $700 to $1,200 for use--however not sure about the theatre--however it might be included. We can also invite a critic. This might sound far fetched but the bank has nothing to lose and neither do we. Just something to put in our pipes if we are truly want to see this. A solution, a fantasy a wish perhaps. What does everyone else think?

--KarenR--Thank you for that photo of his beautiful hands, IMHO aesthetically, his best feature! --Lizza--hope your Mum is better FAST. --Heide, Karen, evelyn, Gi, and all you other great reporters of your experiences, THANK YOU. ...And if anything more happens to pop back into your memory, don't hesitate to add on...even if it doesn't come to mind until June!! After all, these traumatic occurrances can often be repressed...

Lizza---I hope your mom is better soon

Lizza, hope your mom is feeling better. Heide, Karen and Evelyn, thank you for your detail reports. It certainly helps to relive the moment. I'm printing everyone's report to keep in a notebook, with the photos, programs, etc. Just one more item for the CF library. Re: Evelyn's Cross pen, thank you for letting me use it. Winter had mentioned that sharpies are the best pen for autographs, so ladies, at the next outing, we must pack the pen along with the opera glasses... JanaC, I like your idea of renting SLOW for an evening, maybe there's a film festival that will show it, unfortunately, it's too late for the DC Film Festival, they start in April, and the programming is already done.

Karen and I almost had SLOW screened at the Chicago Film Festival last year, but the bank would not release it.Actually, the bank was mad as hell when Handmade let the Martha Vinyard's festival show it without permission.Hey, they have investors that aren't too happy either. ***** The April Movieline has an article on Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio pushing her new film "Limbo".....mentions that she has"also paired with Colin Firth in the Scottish memoir MLSF". Why isn't she promoting MLSF instead of just casually mentioning it? Also says her career has been going south and she is 40! I wish he'd hook-up with Jennifer again...dreads and nose stud...hey with that jacket he had on Friday night he'd blend in with the crowd in Camden. **** CF"I hope you're not disappointed" Actually, I said:"You never disappoint us....never" And I mean't it....even with rotten material...he always comes through.

Got this from KJArt tonight All the library computers were down again this morning, so if I can't get back on tonight, just convey my apologies to Gi and the others about the misunderstanding...I just do not express myself well, I guess...that I do NOT OBJECT to all the reports from the Playgoers...quite the contrary--the more the merrier--I was simply reacting to the idea of pulling Drool off of public access and making it into some sort of private club fo the Privileged Only.

Evelyn, we would go see him wash cars, would we not? We cannot be disappointed as he is there and whatever else is going on is secondary! He is a very dear and special person as well as the other things we drool over.

(Evelyn)He signed your program and several others with MY PEN He signed my program with my pen and held it twice...and guess what, I was so in heaven by his presence that after he gave the pen back to me with his sacred fingerprints in it, I just dropped the pen into my bag where I have about 15 similar ones!!!!!!! Now, which one is THE one is the question.

(Marcia), we would go see him wash cars, would we not? Well, he would be wet once again. Elena, just pick one and cherish it, I'm sure it will turn up to be the one. (mind over matter) Jana, in Hollywood one can rent a screening room at Warner Bros. Studios and set the whole thing up for a small fee, and if one does it around the time MLSF is to open, maybe Colin would attend. Maybe the bank would forego its fee if the sceening is set up in Hollywood. Just a thought. :-)

In today's entertainment report I note that a remake of "The Lion in Winter" has been given the green light, with Pat O'Connor at the helm... hmmm, would be nice to see Colin play a king... Evelyn, one wonders if JE made it over to the Donmar to see her old pal perform -- maybe it will inspire her to tread the boards again as well.

Elena, MarciaH did you get the pics via email? Lucia I tried sending them to you but I got an error saying mail is undeliverable. You could email me at my home addresss jclark@azstarnet.com and I could send them to you via mail.

After viewing Marcia's pictures and finishing chat last night I went right to Celebrity 1000 to vote for ODB. He got over 500 votes in the last pol but deserves more IMHO.

I just checked my e-mail address here and I don't know where they're coming from it should be aoftedahl@worldnet.att.net

IS IT ME! Since 1995 I have adored and fantasized firstly about Fitzwilliam Darcy and then Colin Firth, so much so I was worried I was becoming obsessed until I realised that I was not on my own. So why is it that after such a wonderful day, meeting Colin , who was absolutely charming, friendly and gorgeous and everythng a fan could wish for, and having watched him perform and seen what an absolutely wonderful and gifted actor he is, that I feel so "flat". Is it because after this things cannot get better than meeting the man himself or is it that I see that he is just an ordinary bloke, doing an ordinary job who goes home to his wife at the end of the day. Somehow the mystery and magic has gone by actually meeting him, and in a way I envy Bethan, Eileen & Marcia and anyone else who has yet to meet him, who still have this magical feeling, is this perverse of what. Having w ited to long and worried so long for some Firth news the bubble seems to have burst and as I sazy I feel "Lat", it all feels like an anti-climax. It must just be me because everyone else seems over the moon, sorry if I am rambling I just had to get it off my chest. Where is Mr. Darcy! Winter how did you feel after your Firth encounter and will that magical feeling return, I do hope so.

sorry about the typing mistazkes "Flat" not "Lat"

Ann, take heart. It will come back soon. The thrill of Darcy, for instance. Perhaps this weekend would be a good time to watch again. Your weekend from heaven will begin to take on that dream-like quality I told you about. And it will reamin like a shining object you can relive any time you want, but it will not ruin anything else he does. You'll see. I have dined with Astronauts, and thought it could not get any better than that. It does!!!

Ann, like always, you hit the spot precisely. I love the way you can put your thoughts and feelings to words so openly. First, I�d like to thank you very much for the whole 3DOR experience, I think it was you who first noticed that he was in the cast (at least it was your comment about the play that first made me know about it and think: I have to get there, no matter what) and that�s why we all got the tickets so fast, before anybody else almost! This all just wouldn�t have happened without you being so perceptive....THANK-YOU. It�s been a fantastic experience for me, before, during and after, and still, all the time. I have noticed that you�ve been a bit quiet after the experience and wondered about it, and about everybodys� feelings who were there and to tell you the truth, I was almost worried about some people being DISAPPOINTED with him, especially those to whom the Darcy figure is very important. The real Colin and Darcy are from different worlds of course, Darcy is a perfect and godlike sex object, Colin is basically just like a lovely guy from next door. BUT the Darcy side is in him too, if you know what I mean - I�ve looked at those pics I took and strangely in some he really looks exactly as ordinary and sweet idiot as my neighbor bloke, in some he�s....yes, like Darcy without make-up and with shorter hair. Anyway, meeting him was emotionally so consuming that no wonder if we feel flat, I do too in some way and I knew it would happen. An hour before I left to Donmar from the hotel I had this feeling that I don�t want to go, I�ll lose my fantasies for good! But I also know that I�m just adjusting to the new situation now, my idea of him is changing but not for worse really, just changing, closer to reality that is. Is that so bad? Can�t we love a guy who�s real???? Actually that�s the best and most valuable p rt in Colin, he�s more real than most people in his position and I see that he WANTS to be real for his fans, not just a fantasy figure.

JanaC, I Emailed you about the marvellous assortment of Heiroglyphics I got from you. I could not make it look like anything I recognized, so would you please try again!

More about Colin�s roles in and outside reality.....Evelyn, thanks for Fever Pitch! I see now that there are a lot of things that I didn not know about Colin before I saw that movie. Watched it last night and if the Donmar Experience was a shock, FP was another!!! I still don�t know what sort of a shock really but I believe you can understand, somebody mentioned to me that you didn�t like FP very much? I�m just telling you, I don�t know how you guys got over FP after Darcy!

Does anyone recognize this Email address? YIB4E@AOL.COM It was with a request for the photos. If I do not see someone I know at the signature end of the letter requesting photos of the group, I do not send them. There was no identification with this Email.

.........About FP: I don�t mean I don�t like Colin in it, I do (some quite delicious moments!!) but he�s so different in it than in anything else that I need time to adjust myself, and watch it again. Btw, it�s very clear to me now after seeing FP how badly, almost violently he really wanted to kick Darcy out of his life. I know it�s not news to you girls, it�s just my turn now to see it.

Ann! Are you feeling any better? As Marcia and Elena have said, you're going through typical post-event let down. The buildup was so strong and now it's over and on top of that, your [our] idol has been humanized. I always go into a funk after something big. That's one of the hundreds of rationalizations I used as a stay-at-home last weekend. Give it some time; as Marcia said, the magic will be back AND you'll be able to tell your friends "Colin Firth? I've met him and he's very gracious!"

Strange, I felt no let down. Perhaps I've always separated CF from Darcy. Darcy is and has always been a standalone fantasy-type figure who was fully fleshed out by CF's portrayal. But I've gone beyond that in my admiration of CF as an actor. I don't think I can ever view my London experience and seeing him on stage in such a fantastic role, for which he is uniquely qualified, as just another day at the theater. Meeting him, seeing him up close, talking to him--these were all icing on the cake. They didn't bring him down to my level, for if that had been the case, I would have been more coherent. Yes, I know he is just another man. Puts his pants on one leg at a time, etc. But seeing him act was an enormous treat. He didn't let me down. His acting and kindness toward his admiring fans put him in a special place for me. Hopefully, this is only temporary, Ann. You lucky ladies in England will be the first to get to see Donovan Quick. Start anticipating... ;-)

(Elena)...evelyn... somebody mentioned to me that you didn�t like FP very much? I liked Paul Ashford, not the screenplay...or Ruth Gemell with her grating voice.Now I know my dear friends love Nick Hornby...IMO he may be a good novelist...but I felt the story in FP esp. the romance was contrived and not plausible.(But they have heard this before).Pl. give us more of your comments... Who knows? You might change my mind. However, did anyone else feel that CF played the 1st Act of 3 DOR in a Paul Ashford style? I was expecting Adrian Le Duc from AZ. Really want to discuss that play when the M,R &K get back from London. ****** Ann, join the Funk club....but I have looked at P&P every night for an hour and "that ole feeling " is coming back. Wait til you see the photo I just sent you of the two of you!! ***** I do think it is more difficult for the married gals to love a "real "man, Karen.

Winter how did you feel after your Firth encounter and will that magical feeling return, I do hope so. Darlings.... it takes time to "recover" and become your old drooling selves again! I felt the same way... I couldn't bring myself to read fanfic for so long because I felt "guilty," esp. after having seen the object of these fantasies in the flesh... I felt guilty for coming here to the boards too. THAT'S why people who haven't seen him need to be active posters in this community.

(marcia) If I do not see someone I know at the signature end of the letter requesting photos of the group, I do not send them. I agree wholeheartedly! (ann W) is it that I see that he is just an ordinary bloke, doing an ordinary job who goes home to his wife at the end of the day. Somehow the mystery and magic has gone (karen)I felt no let down. Perhaps I've always separated CF from Darcy Yes, I think that must be it. I was perhaps disappointed the first time I saw him in a film other than P&P2, I think it was either the Advocate or Circle of Friends. I was seriously confused, because Darcy had never meant anything for me before Colin - and still doesn't, I'm afraid - sorry, Marcia, I do not like Olivier's Darcy at all - but Colin outside his role as Darcy wasn't much to look at... But I insisted, and came to appreciate him as an actor. Someone here (was it Bethan?) said he must be en times more good looking in person - he is not - but he has a fine figure, his body language is fantastically expressive, his voice and the expression in his eyes out of this world...and he is an ordinary bloke but what a charmingly nice one!His beauty and sexyness come from within, I think. And I thank the gods who have put him on this world to enrich it with his talent and his graciousness. Oh dear... now I've gone poetic...Forgive me! :-)

Hey Gi...have you been to #80?...They're casting the role of Julio in Bridget Jones' Diary . Who needs Antonio Banderas?...We have our own Antonio!!

Evelyn, LOL! Will it be Banderas? I have to go there! Antonio says there is (was?)a real Julio in Albufeira who is/was a gigolo.

BTW I downloaded Sabine's email pic of the group and sent it to Colin at ICM.With a short note thanking him for generously giving us his time last Saturday signing programs and posing for pics. Also requested that he not wait five more years for another play....we want to get together again before then!!. I felt that since I had asked him to pose for the picture, I should send him a note.If he doesn't get it...I didn't lose much.

Evelyn, that was probably the best way to solve that problem. If anyone should send him one of our group pics, it should be you. I hope he gets the flowers that Lizza sent. And I hope, oh I hope, that Arami and Renate and Kirsten and whoever else is going to the Donmar tomorrow has the greatest time! (and posts soon to tell us all)

(Gi)I do not like Olivier's Darcy at all Someone must have noticed by now that I posted a few times on 11 then gave it up. My heart was here from the moment I first saw CF as Darcy. There can be no other now! (I did not like his effete manner, Gi. Olivier's that is!)

No, and he was not convincingly proud, or interestingly unattainable...;-)

(Evelyn)BTW I downloaded Sabine's email pic of the group and sent it to Colin at ICM HOORAY!!!! Just the right thing to do, I think. I couldn�t get it why sending that pic to Colin would be �groupieish�, it�s just a funny photo and if he�ll get it, I�m sure he�ll feel good about it. Most important is to let him know how much we appreciate his lovely way of treating his fans.

Sabine's photo of you is my favorite (with the exception that I cannot see LizzaJ)...you all look as delighted with things as I could ever imagine. It is a classic, and it is looking at me right now, as I have printed it out! =)

The only time I ever met an idol "in the flesh" was when I was fourteen, and it was disastrous...I actively disliked him, and went home and shredded all my photos! I'm very pleased that you've seen Colin act in very demanding role and then met him afterwards, and that you like him and admire him as an actor. From quotes in interviews ..."I've never lost sight of the fact that it was Darcy people went mad over, not me", "I don't take pleasure in disappointing people"... I think he's very conscious that he may not live up to expectations. I'm sure the last two weeks have shown him that people actually like him for himself. The first thing I noticed about him were his xpressive eyes and voice, and I'm sure those are the same! "The Lion in Winter"...the Pat O'Connor connection is very promising! I would love to see Colin take on the role of Henry II. It's a great role. He's exactly (or almost) the right age. It's always assumed that Henry was older when he experienced the conflicts with his sons. In fact he was 40. He was married at 18 to Eleanor of Aquitaine who was 12 years older than him and bore him several children in quick succession. SLOW..sorry, I don't give up on this. Evelyn, did the Bank say what would happen next? Are you ringing them again? There was an article in the Observer about film distribution. A lot of good films are failing to get theatrical releases because they don't cater for mainstream (16-24 predominantly male) audiences, and art houses have limited capacity. Many straight-to-video rentals do extremely well, whilst theatre releases flop miserably. The article did say that to secure TV rights, the movie has to be s own at least once in a cinema. As far as UK distribution is concerned, I've noticed that a lot of British films "opening" in the UK, are shown in just one or two independent cinemas in London. So that could be a possibility. I hope the last contingent has a gret time at 3DOR! Another excellent review in the FT..."LeFevre's production does the play proud - three actors giving excellent performances...CF in splendid Byronic mood...CF contrasts movingly the wilful implacable misery of the son with the father's watchfulness". Aso the Timeout review which I've quoted was very good.

(Gi) ... he has a fine figure, his body language is fantastically expressive, his voice and the expression in his eyes out of this world...and he is an ordinary bloke but what a charmingly nice one! His beauty and sexyness come from within, I think. And I thank the gods who have put him on this world to enrich it with his talent and his graciousness. Oh dear... now I've gone poetic...Forgive me! :-) My sentiments exactly, there's something about him that pulls us all in, whether as Darcy or any other character, I'm always amazed with his performances. That old feeling...I have to say that meeting the man himself has only increased my admiration and interest in him and his future projects. I reviewed my copy of ATA last night because he looked very much like Jessie in 3DOR...did anyone notice his arm and hand, in the closeup with JL? That scenc required several rewinds. Evelyn, so glad you sent off the pix with the note to him, I think he should know how much his fans appriciate his thoughtfulness, giving us his time.

EmmaE, your Pictures are on their way!

(Bethan)...films are failing to get theatrical releases because they don't cater for mainstream (16-24)predominantly male) audiences, We have no one to blame but ourselves if the distribs don't buy and release the films we want to see. Be honest. How many films have you seen recently...besides SIL. How many times do you go to the cinema in a month? How many vids do you rent? The 16 to 25 crowd go every weekend....and rent constantly....three and four at a time.Go to any Blockbuster and look at the age of the average customer.Do you blame distribs for catering to them? They bring in the $$$ to pay the debt. Let's face it ...rhetorical support just doesn't count.And that's what most of us do!!

I forgot to add how shocked I was to see the price of a movie ticket in London. We paid 10. UKP a ticket(matinee) to see "This Year's Love"...that about $17. US. Is that the cost of a movie throughout UK...Germany....Finland? That's serious money folks. I pay $4. for a matinee and $6. evening.Maybe in NY and LA it would go to $10. max.

Evelyn, did we desert the movies because we were bored or did they start making movies which spray more and more gore, explicit sex (Hey, I'm all for it - in privacy!) and weirdos?! Somewhere we let the kiddies get control of almost every choice in daily living. Or am I being grouchy?

I have read that R rated movies sell better that PG13...and family movies....fergedaboutit.Hollywood produces what the viewing public want to see. Unlike some European countries, our movie industry is not subsidized by the government...no lottery, no grants.Private money only.If a UK movie fails at the box office...tough...the gov't doesn't get paid back. In the US it's some poor slobs pension fund.

Murph has Colin's autograph and other news items (including a review of MLSF) http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/news2.html

Or am I being grouchy? Not grouchy...perceptive. Have you noticed that a whole new genre of teen movies have been dominating the box office since "I know what you did..."? We've got teen horror, teen drama (Titanic), teen sci-fi (Wing Commander), even teen adaptions of novels/films (Cruel Intentions=Dangerous Liasons)!!! We've created a society that caters to generational preferences more than ever before.

Just a note to Ann - I don't think you're the only feeling a slight letdown after last week. I'm not but I can see what you mean. After watching Pride & Prejudice, I think the first thing I saw of Colin's was Valmont. I love him in it now but then it was not Mr. Darcy and I felt curiously let down. But it didn't last long. I came to appreciate him more and more as an actor and seeing him on stage was, well shall I just say it was very sexy. Evelyn astutely says it could be different for you married omen and I understand that (especially after seeing your wonderful husband). I hope you take the advice of the others and immerse yourself in P&P. I'm sure that old feeling will overtake you again. Elena, your pep talk to Ann was particularly insightful. But you must reassess Paul Ashworth! I know only you can make that decision for yourself but Paul is my absolute favorite character (next to the incomparable Darcy). Didn't you see Paul in Ned? Are we back to the depressing news again? Why would Colin use SLOW (and MLSF) as his credits in the Donmar program if no one is ever going to see it? I think we have to take things into our own hands and raise the money ourselves. Evelyn suggested a bake sale. Do we have VERY good bakers out there?

Ann: Watch P & P this weekend. You will feel better. I know first hand how you feel. I felt that way after meeting a celeb. I am os glad that everyone had such a good time. I have enjoyed reading all the posts. Took a while. I have been a bit under the weather.

Delurking long enough to say.... Thanks!! (to each and every one of you who took the time to post about your encounter with ODB). I have so enjoyed this past week or so and wished mightily that I could have been there. Thanks to the excellent descriptions I feel I have been there, with you all, just off in a corner, watching. Which is very like what I would have done, anyway!

Thanks everyone for all the details of your encounters at 3DOR. I have been devouring them and while one can't help but be a bit wistful at missing out, your vivid descriptions make me feel as if I was there. To our German girls who are there now, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that your experience is every bit as wonderful. (Moon) Maybe the bank would forego its fee if the sceening is set up in Hollywood. Just a thought. :-) Well, if that could be wangled I think we could guarantee an audience of at least two. What say you, Dame Winter? (Heide) But you must reassess Paul Ashworth! I must agree here. Elena, give Paul a little time to grow on you. I have been needing an FP fix for awhile (love this film!) but have been ruthlessly denying myself so that I can really savor it on the big screen. But they keep delaying the premiere :-(.

I had to watch FP at least three times before I grew accustomed to (and liked) CF in such a different characterisation. He's so chameleon-like that I often take time to adjust to his new performances. Unlike some other actors who always look the same (best profile/hair forward) and invariably turn in the same performance! Or am I being grouchy? Not at all! I completely agree with you (and with Winter about teen culture). Evelyn, I take your point..I rarely go to the movies or rent a video. BUT, I do quite often go to Blockbusters or Global Video with the INTENTION of renting a video, and I can't find anything to my taste. I often end up renting from the "foreign fims" section...small, low-budget, intelligent French films with good dialogue and considerable warmth and charm (I'm totally dependent on sub-titles though!) And increasinging I am ju t not watching any drama or movies on TV. And I'm not all that old!!!

Oh my! If you stay away from here for more than a day there are so many posts to catch up on. Where to start. Alan Yentob (sp?) is, I think, Director of Television for the BBC. There is something about him in the Times this morning which I can no longer find (Saturday's paper is far too big). In our dark moments, let us remember that this "big honcho" was waiting to see Colin after the performance. Re SLOW and moviegoing. I agree with Bethan that the problem is that the movie industry caters for a youth market. One problen is that the experience of moviegoing is not very pleasant for those of us of a certain age! We are lucky in that we live in cenralish London and in an area famed for its arthouse cinemas which are generally very pleasant places to go and where you do not feel out of place if you are over 25. I was at a party in the Midlands recently and was talking about films to a man there. His comments really open d my eyes. He loved films but said that a film had to be very good before he and his wife would brave the local multiplex which was teeming with 16-18 year olds and where you had to crunch your way across a popcorn strewn floor to get to your seat. I so sympathise. If I want to see a mainstream film which is only showing at the local Odeon or wherever, I go with one of my children. My husband would hate it too much, I can cope! So he will just have to see the Truman Show on video:-) But I echo Evelyn's comment. It is all about consumer power. So my DH and I are off to see Central Station this evening at a small, civilised cinema. Re SLOW and charity screening. Bethan why don't you persuade your husband that one way of raising funds for his favourite charity would be to host a special screening of SLOW with funds going to the Council for Refugees (was that the charity, sorry it is on the other board so could not check). You could tellhim that this would be a sure fire hit because a) the star would be sure to show because it is a cause close to his heart b) it is written, produced and is about Nigerians who are a group that are ha ing problems attaining status inthe UK. and most of all c)you are sure that you could fill all the seats without need to advertise!!

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Oh my! If you stay away from here for more than a day there are so many posts to catch up on. Where to start. Alan Yentob (sp?) is, I think, Director of Television for the BBC. There is something about him in the Times this morning which I can no longer find (Saturday's paper is far too big). In our dark moments, let us remember that this "big honcho" was waiting to see Colin after the performance. Re SLOW and moviegoing. I agree with Bethan that the problem is that the movie industry caters for a youth market. One problen is that the experience of moviegoing is not very pleasant for those of us of a certain age! We are lucky in that we live in cenralish London and in an area famed for its arthouse cinemas which are generally very pleasant places to go and where you do not feel out of place if you are over 25. I was at a party in the Midlands recently and was talking about films to a man there. His comments really open d my eyes. He loved films but said that a film had to be very good before he and his wife would brave the local multiplex which was teeming with 16-18 year olds and where you had to crunch your way across a popcorn strewn floor to get to your seat. I so sympathise. If I want to see a mainstream film which is only showing at the local Odeon or wherever, I go with one of my children. My husband would hate it too much, I can cope! So he will just have to see the Truman Show on video:-) But I echo Evelyn's comment. It is all about consumer power. So my DH and I are off to see Central Station this evening at a small, civilised cinema. Re SLOW and charity screening. Bethan why don't you persuade your husband that one way of raising funds for his favourite charity would be to host a special screening of SLOW with funds going to the Council for Refugees (was that the charity, sorry it is on the other board so could not check). You could tellhim that this would be a sure fire hit because a) the star would be sure to show because it is a cause close to his heart b) it is written, produced and is about Nigerians who are a group that are ha ing problems attaining status inthe UK. and most of all c)you are sure that you could fill all the seats without need to advertise!!

What is going on here? I tried to post another long post. I got a Server Error. I did a test post. Typed again. Posted, got a second server error. When I reloaded, I discovered it had posted my first message again. Grrrr.

However, so keen am I to cofess about David Rintoul(or is it Rentoul?) that I shall try one more time.... I shall post in small chunks. Evelyn. Don't you find that �1 is more or less equal to $1? So �10 would be about right for a West End cinema seat. Where I live, it is about �5. further out or in some other parts of the country it may be less. It is just more expensive in the UK. The Artist Formerly Known as Darcy. That is so wonderful. Don't you think Colin would love it too? We should send him the photograph you have on the conference heading page with that title...from Spring.

Ann. You are suffering from post traumatic stress. Did i not warn you?:-) you must not leave us. Look upon us as your therapists. We are experts on all aspects of Firthitis. I don't have a Darcy/Colin problem, perhaps because I was always in love with Mr Darcy. I even loved him when played by David Rintoul. So when i saw P&P2, I knew that this Darcy had something extra special and that was what Colin brought to the part. Whether it was the man or the actor or both, I am still not sure about. Tha is what makes him interesting IMO. Lizza. I hope your mother is doing well. I hope it helps that we are all thinking of you. BTW. I think my previous posting problems were to do with the fact that I was trying to post the emoticon for "user is mad" and the system mistook it for an html tag....

Glad to hear from you again Rita, for a moment I feared that you�ve had enough of us and all the 3DOR frenzy!

Yes, perhaps, because we are singletons, we didn't experience the letdown of meeting CF and seeing him as a normal guy. However, it's not as though he was available and we were unrealistically clinging to some fantasy or something!! ;-D I have some pictures with CF on the staircase at the Donmar and he is shaking hands with an older man (grey-haired) who put his glasses up on his forehead. Having heard that John Boorman was in the audience on Saturday, would anybody be able to recognize him? Or could this be Alan Yentob (?) who you've mentioned before? Colin looks pleased as all get out as he is shaking his hand and somewhat awed. (Allison and Bethan, send me your email addresses - I seem to have mislaid them - if you want to see the pics)

LOL, Allison, at your suggestion for Bethan's husband to get the ball rolling on the Nigerian refugee/SLOW connection. And yet...it's not so far fetched, is it. Between us and the FOF ladies and everyone else, we'd get that theatre filled and for a very worthy cause. No, no, no, I don't mean Colin Firth Appreciation Night (though that would certainly be an incentive). Rita, Allison, you can't be away from us for more than a day right now or you'll have 100 messages to catch up on. We're all waiting now for Renate and Kirsten's report. Perhaps that will help me get over this curiously sad feeling I have knowing that right now he's doing his next to last performance and then there is just one more and it's all over. By the way, Ben, Karen, Evelyn and I did eat at Belgo Centraal last Friday night. Since my Firthitis was rather bad at that moment, I barely touched my meal but the beer was good. Belgo is full of atmosphere though I understand the lavatory is truly something to gush about. Thanks for the tip. I'll forgive you for calling us ingenuous (or was it disingenuous?) though I know you only meant it in the best sense - "babes" in the wood. Moon, could you e-mail me your address? I've lost it in my filing system full of little bits of paper.

(Karen)Or could this be Alan Yentob No, Alan Yentob was there on Friday night. He is fortyish. Close cropped/ balding with designer stubble. Dark features. My E-mail is allm@iname.com. Would love to see all the pics.

Yes, where are the reports from Arami, Renate and Kirsten? Did they go on Friday night? Or are they doing a doubleheader on Saturday? Can't wait to hear about their experiences with The Man Himself! And I don't believe for one minute that they will be shy about it, especially when they see others taking the initiative.

Allison, thanks I am feeling much better I don't know what came over me, I think its just that he has been a fantasy figure for so long and we have always found it so difficult to get any news on him that suddenly there he was in the flesh with hundreds and hundreds of fans all around him and,of course it it had nothing to with whether he was available or not. not at all, it just it suddenly hit me that he is not Mr. Darcy and not just a wonderful actor but a real person, and for a minute my illusions w re shattered but I certainly don't want to leave Allison I have made far too many lovely friends here, some of whom I have met, and I realy enjoy reading and contributing to all the postings and I am looking forward to Colin's future projects, Donovan Quick, Bridget Jones, Mary Queen of Scots, Marked Man....and the next stage work.

(Karen)I have some pictures with CF on the staircase at the Donmar and he is shaking hands with an older man I�d like to see those pics, could you email them to me, Karen? Anyway, I�d like to see everybody�s pics, and let everybody see mine. If you mean the man who was on the top of the stairs with Colin, he�s the one who stood right beside me and Jana up there. Their meeting is very clear in my memory because I watched it so closely, Colin seemed surprised and very delighted and I can still hear his glad voice greeting him, with a big smile....it seemed to me that the man was somehow personally important to Colin. Heide, please answer my email concerning the photos I took of you & C.

--Karen R--I have a clipping of the Chicago production of 3 DoR review out of entertainment Weekly. Do you want me to send it?? Evelyn--Sorry, I know how embittered you are that DB didn't get nominated at all, but do not begrudge Tom Wilkonson...he did a marvelous jop. IMO better than GR --AnnW--I'm sorry you are so shocked and unhappy about the comedown, but after you've been in the stratosphere even a little while, down to earth initially seems mundane. But I hope by now you reconsidered it all. Who you met is no "ordinary bloke" with an "ordinary job"--He is unique, remarkably talented and you lucky girl were privileged to be in the presence of an EXTRAORDINARY human being, the likes of which you will never see again.

Ann, Didn't Colin say in one of his interviews that his aunt begged him not to play Darcy as it would spoil all her illusions!! And didn't Bridget Jones feel the same way.... (long quote) "Ugh. Just about to watch Panorama on the trend of well qualified female breadwinners"...when I stumbled upon a photograph in the Standard of Darcy and Elizabeth, hideous, dressed as modern-day luvvies, draped all over each other in a meadow.....Apparently they are already sleeping together. That is absolutely dosgusting. Feel disorientated and worried, for surely Mr Darcy would never do anything so vain and frivolous as to be an actor, and yet Mr Darcy is an actor. Hmmm. All v.confusing." : ) Allison, great idea for SLOW! It would be the only way I could ever manage to meet CF with my DH in tow! Seriously, I really hope SLOW will get a proper release. Out of interest I searched on Alta Vista for SLOW and it's listed for a 98 release, along with a lot of other films, most of which I recognise and which I know have subsequently been released. So at one stage it was obviously scheduled for release and there was no problem. BTW, according to another snippet, Colin's character is an award-winning s i-fi writer, and some of the scenes take place in his study. 3DOR will soon be finishing...I hope the applause is LOUD and that that we get some first-hand reports of the Last Night!

I do not understand. There were a bunch of people in Chat when I went in after sending my picture to those whose picture I had seen. Suddenly they are all gone. Must not have liked mine!

(Winter)....teen sci-fi (Wing Commander) Saffron Barrows (Nan-Oh- Nan in COF) is co-starring in that. Took a while to get a co-star role!! (Allison)Evelyn. Don't you find that �1 is more or less equal to $1? I wish...that hasn't happened for about 10 years, Allison. How about$1.67 or thereabouts. We call it the Two-dollar-pound, actually. When you factor in conversion.Nope...10. UKP is still $17. But Ann tells me in her neck- of- the woods movies only cost 5 UKP which is about our prices. ***** I hope the high-power-director...Mr. Boorman, stayed around to see all of Colin's admirers waiting for him. I tell you, ODB was on Cloud 9 on Saturday night.It was all over his face. **** You know, that Charity Benefit idea for the Nigerian refugees is not so far fetched.Allison, who is in charge of this organization. Maybe we could get them together with the bank.Pl. email me. And if SLOW ever sells,that would be a good cause for the Premiere.Good publicity for the film. African causes are hot now. And we could all go:-) All Riiiight....I think we have somethin' cookin'heah... (evelyn get outta' this Colin- Firth-business; you have enough to do!!)

(Evelyn)(evelyn get outta' this Colin- Firth-business; you have enough to do!!) Oh no you don't. LOL!!! If not for you, our intrepid Firth-trekkers would still be hiding Firthlessly behind the bushes waiting for a passing glimpse of him. Stay right in there. We may never see SLOW without your intervention. And if it fails, at least you tried!!! BTW, you made a great man feel almost as good about himself that evening as we do about him. I treasure those pictures of him looking like he has just been granted the vision of the Holy Grail (aka Evelyn).

(Marcia)There were a bunch of people in Chat when I went in after sending my picture to those whose picture I had seen. Suddenly they are all gone. Must not have liked mine! LOL. Ah, who was it who blamed me for being paranoid??!! Thanks Marcia for the picture, I really don�t think it�s THAT bad!:-)

Elena, thank you, I needed that. (From one photophobic to another =D)

All of you eager lurkers out there...please post something before you ask me to send you the pictures taken in London. Please try to imagine my posting your photograph and name all over the world for people to see. I will not do that to these very special ladies. Become one of us and I will be delighted to accommodate you.

I'd like to see some photos if I haven't seen them yet. lauram30@hotmail.com

Laura, an oversight on my part. You did get the sideways winner!!! the others are on their way

i did and Heide looks adorable!

If you're interested in reading about the refugee work which (I preume) CF supports, check out today's Observer (front page Headline) http://www.observer.co.uk "Red Nose funds UK refugees" "Comic Relief, Britain's most high-profile charity is pouring money into programmes for refugees and asylum seekers in this country because it believes new immigration laws will force them into destitution...all benefits are to be removed creating a cashless underclass." We apparently have a backlog of 60,000 cases in the UK, with many individuals surviving in abject poverty. The Daily Telegraph "journalist" who interviewed CF should read this!!

A big thank you to Marcia, Elena, and Karen for the pictures and links. The one with Heide and CF is great. And Marcia, you look adorable surrounded by all that sportswear :-) (Evelyn -- SLOW Charity Benefit idea for the Nigerian refugees) All Riiiight....I think we have somethin' cookin'heah... There's no doubt in my mind, the women of Spring are amazingly resourceful. On the other hand, it feels like one of those old Mickey Rooney movies...LET's put on a show! I'll volunteer to design the flyers/posters.

SPRING CONGRATULATIONS TO; WINTER : Upon achieving her Master's Degree...We're proud of you,Jenn. ANN W. Happy Birthday!!!! (Better you than me, ole buddie)Have a super day. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE UK SPRING MUMS!! ******* Heide...you look like the happiest woman in England and I am sure you were. Show it to your co-workers...tell em' he's your British Boyfriend :-) At least you can do that....I'd be arrested for being a pedophile!! Girls are we not proud of our Karen!!!She has become quite proficient at scanning and designing webpages pages.Thanks a Bunch! ******** (Emma) the women of Spring are amazingly resourceful. ...... ..LET's put on a show! The women of Drool couldn't get this together...we're too scattered..but I bet we could be facilitators and get the interested parties together.

Happy Birthday, Ann!!!

...I'd be arrested for being a pedophile!! LOL!!!! But you know, our dear Boy seemed to really like you, doing everything you asked from him and putting you in front of him in the picture....you should�ve asked him to come for a drink with us and he would�ve done that too, definitely:-)

Happy Birthday Ann. If someone will send me her Email address, I will send her the pics. AnnW is the only one I have not sent them to who is actually in them. Jenn, albolutely blown away by your achievements. Fantastic Felicitations! Now that Sunday is almost over depending on where you live, or just beginning for me, have you all raided the newspapers on the neighborhood porches for the USA Today magazine? There he is with Judi Dench and someone asks if he is married. They respond that he is married to !actress! Livia G. Come on!!!

Happy Birthday Ann! Thank you Evelyn for the program! I got it yesterday and it was a very exciting moment for me!

Hello Stacey! Welcome aboard!!! It is so good to have your posting...have you gotten the 4 photos yet? I forget =(

Congrats, Jenn!!! Happy Birthday, Ann! perhaps a bday celebration in chat is warranted?

Let me add my good wishes to you both: Happy Birthday Ann! :-) and Good going, Winter!! Heave sigh of relief; it's all over and you did it! Wonderful!

Thanks everyone for your birthday wishes, although I am trying to forget them nowadays. . I have been thoroughly spoilt today as my birthday coincided with Mothering Sunday, have put my feet up and James cooked the Sunday lunch!!! Thankyou you Heide for your email you too are a classy lady and I hope we may meet again someday as we didn't get much time to chat. Also Marcia I would love to see the photos but I am afraid my email doesn't accept photos, will have to talk James into getting a new one and than you Evelyn for my lovely birthday surprise. I wonder how thing went last night, I can't wait to hear from Renate, does anyone know when she gets home.

Congratulations Winter!! Does this mean now you'll have to get a job? Boo. Happy Birthday, Ann. And on Mother's Day too. I'll bet James will treat you very well today. Moon, I need your snail mail address. That's what I lost. our dear Boy seemed to really like you, doing everything you asked from him and putting you in front of him in the picture. Absolutely, Evelyn. Who do you think that big grin was for? Damn, I only get Parade Magazine in my Sunday paper, not USA Today. Actress Livia? Well, at least they didn't make her a model.

sorry yes, how self centred, congratulations Winter.

And I meant to say above, Absolutely, Elena, not Evelyn. But it was Evelyn Colin was grinning for, not me.

I would have a life-sized blow up of that pic made, and hang it in my office or cubicle, Heide. I cannot tell his smile was for anyone other than you, and they will not know if you do not tell them. Smile as smugly as possible and make no comments. Ummmmm!

Winter, congratulations on your achievement! Ann, many happy returns! I've been thinking of Nan, and sorry that she cannot be sharing this adventurous times with us right now. I've also been wondering about the ladies who went to the last performance, and how it went for them. I can't understand why Arami at least hasn't posted anything yet!

Happy Birthday, Ann ! Please mail your adress to : SPalko6487@aol.com or SabinePalkowski@aol.com then I will send you the pic !!!

Ann, the second one was wrong: SabinePalkowski@hotmail.com Thanks !

(Heide)But it was Evelyn Colin was grinning for, not me But didn�t you say that it was his own initiative to ask you if you wanted a photo with him? What made him ask that, have you thought about it?? And he seems to have felt very relaxed with you, which is remarkable. I have some other pics where he�s with some unknown ladies and there his face is a bit strained. Augh, that�s what�s risky in posing for a pic with one�s idol, it would be terrible to see in his face that the situation was an ordeal to him! Btw, in several of the pics there is a guy in the background with a moustache watching the happenings in the lobby, in Karen�s pic of Colin & �Boorman� too. I wonder if Colin had a bodyguard?! (Could�ve been someone�s husband too!)

No, the mustached man is someone's husband. The circumstances of Heide's pictures. As I recall, Colin was standing right there and I physically pushed her into him, which is why their eyes are straight forward on my picture as I was trying to take the picture, but my camera was initially not cooperating. It had jammed. For the longest time I can remember, Colin looked exasperated and was giving up on me, when I moved the camera away and then the flash went off. But most everything else was a blur to me. ;-D

Yippee, so there IS a picture of me and Colin together, and what�s more, my head seems to be resting comfortably against his shoulder. Wish it had!!! (=Karen�s picture, page 3). Thanks, K! Ann, congratulations. Please email me your address and I�ll send you some pics.

Marcia, thanks for the pix, they did download and I saved them in paintbrush. You are a very lovely group ladies! I have a pix with Winter and Jana2 from our LA tea, but I don't have a scanner. Happy belated Birthday Ann! Now we wait for Renate, Kirsten and Arami.

Happy Birthday, Ann!! --Karen--thanx for the program so super quick...I've e-mailed you. --So where are all the photos already!!!!!!

(Heide)...But it was Evelyn Colin was grinning for, not me. Wrong. He DID ask if you, yes you, Heide.. wanted a picture made with him and K&I pushed you into him. In the group pic he only smiled....in Heide's pic he showed teeth and dimples that you could put your fist in....or better ...face it. I hope someone is sending me a hard copy of the group picture....Elena? Sabine?Gi?Please. I want to have it enlarged and framed.

Karen, did I forget you? I emailed the same question. Am ready to rectify if that is the case.

What pics are you guys talking about? I'm sorta clueless tonight;(

I wonder who did EMcG. hair in 3 DOR? She should take lessons from Livia who is always casually, but impeccably coiffed.

Laura, they are the ones I Emailed to you this morning.

Evelyn, if you have been looking at The Scarlet Pimpernel, I think you will agree that it appears as though no one is doing her hair. It always looks like she just crawled out of bed =P

Ah, gotcha! yes they are wonderful. I did manage to right side up the one with CF and Heide. It looked as tho they were doing the horizontal mumbo jumbo;) hee hee.

(Gi)And I hope, oh I hope, that Arami and Renate and Kirsten and whoever else is going to the Donmar tomorrow has the greatest time! We had a great time watching the play on Friday and meeting Colin afterwards. But it seems that the folks who went the previous week had a much, much better time. Evidently everything to do with the whole experience was then still fresh for everybody, including Colin himself. But the following week the novelty and surprise must have worn away. He was still very polite and extremely obliging, but appeared slightly tired. Renate and the rest of the second week's London trekkers will be back around Tuesday, nd should have much more to report, as they actually went to the last show as well.

Welcome back. You are the Firthst one all week with fresh input. too bad I cannot Email you these pictures I have been given custody of, they are the most sublime pictures of all time. I hope they got the theater posters after the last show. How exciting!

(Heide)Congratulations Winter!! Does this mean now you'll have to get a job? Boo. Thanks, Heide, and thanks very much everyone!!!! No-- I'm just as unemployable with my MA as I was with my Bachelor's. Not much use for an anthropologist without a PhD-- which is next on the agenda. (Evelyn)She should take lessons from Livia who is always casually, but impeccably coiffed. I always liked Livia's sense of style. Tres chic, no? In fact, I have to confess here, I actually went out to get my hair cut (even shorter!) and had it done sort of like Livia's. (Arami) had a great time watching the play on Friday and meeting Colin afterwards. No details? What was the extent of your "meeting Colin?" 'Fess up!

Happy birthday Ann. How long will it take you to get your PhD Winter. You have chosesn an exciting field. They just found an Indian site down by Miami that is at least a hundred years older than any before found in Florida. Thank you so very much for the pictures, Marcia.

Ladies, love the pics! You are all charming. (Laura) I did manage to right side up the one with CF and Heide. I'm showing my techno ignorance here, but how did you manage that? I've just been turning my head horizontally :-) AnnW - Happy Birthday, and Winter, many congratulations on your great achievement. So proud of you!

I'm showing my techno ignorance here, but how did you manage that? I've just been turning my head horizontally :-) If you're looking at it through MS Photo Editor (Win 97), there's an option somewhere on the top (I think "View" or "EDit"?). Select "rotate' and then select "turn left." That should get it straightened out.

Arami, PLEASE, tell us in detail what happened on Friday, or didn�t happen. I really need to know. What do you mean with Colin�s tiredness? Were there a lot of fans asking for autographs that evening? Did you ask for one, or talk to him? I really need to know..... and I�ve been thinking about Tonya who did it 8 times (at least somebody said she did), I think I would�ve done that too if I could have:-)).....btw what�s the address of Tonya�s website, she must have a ton of London material!

Arami, PLEASE, tell us in detail what happened on Friday, or didn�t happen. I really need to know. What do you mean with Colin�s tiredness? Were there a lot of fans asking for autographs that evening? Did you ask for one, or talk to him?..... and I�ve been thinking about Tonya who did it 8 times (at least somebody said she did), I think I would�ve done that too if I could have:-)).....btw what�s the address of Tonya�s website, she must have a ton of London material!

Sorry, what did I do to make that happen?

Elena, Tonya's web site is http://www.geocities.com/Paris/Lights/2524/Vignette.html However, she doesn't have anything posted from 3DOR'S yet.

(Winter) I have to confess here, I actually went out to get my hair cut (even shorter!) and had it done sort of like Livia's. Too funny! Actually, I cut bangs and reparted my hair down the center just so it *wouldn't* look like Livia's! My hair has been your basic bob for about four years.

A belated happy birthday, Ann. Sounds like you had a v. fine day! And a big pat on the back to you, Winter. Marcia, your pic is lovely (I'll take 2 blue T's in a medium--kidding). Evelyn, good idea about SLOW. Remember SusanMC's idea a month or two ago? "Firth Fans Finance Foundering Flick?" (Arami) He was still very polite and extremely obliging, but appeared slightly tired. To be expected, I would think, but not the least bit disappointing. I'm looking forward to the details. Renate, do you still plan to put the 3DOR pics up on-line somehow(when you catch your breath, that is)? I have a bunch from e-mail (thanks again, Marcia) but the more the merrier!

Arami, we are counting on your critical eye to give us a few thoughts on 3DOR. (We know you have them) Is Colin still dear to your heart after meeting him or not? Did you speak to him? Will you still keep your Darcy posters up in your house? :-D Come, come, Arami, tell us more.

I understand our DB had a sore throat and was losing his voice, a nightmare scenario for any actor, so one can't blame him for not being quite so full of fun as he was on the 6th and after 14 performances too and 14 nights signing programmes and smiling. Elena I would love to have some photos, would you kindly let me have your email address and I will send you my postal address, thanks very much.

And Renate. Or has everyone got a touch of firth stress syndrome.

I understand our DB had a sore throat and was losing his voice Ann, where did you get this from? I mean: did somebody in the audience tell you that he had problems with his voice? In that case it must have been pretty bad. Poor Colin!

I understand our DB had a sore throat and was losing his voice Po' baby...don't y'all wish y'all could have been there to kiss it and make it all better? :-) ** A horror scene, when he had to do two shows on Saturday!!

I went to see the play on the last performance on Sat night and can confirm that he did have a sore throat. However, he battled through it valiantly and his voice luckily held out - in fact, dare I say it, it actually sounded really rather sexy and did no great harm to his US accent. I am sure he didn;t feel too good though, as it did sound really quite painful, especially in the moments where he had to loudly project his voice. The audience I am sure feeling for him gave a resounding amount of applause.

Arami, don�t torture us with your silence, tell us please! Or has the famous 3DOR stress syndrome (!!) caught you too? Btw, I had the syndrome pretty bad, in fact for a moment I felt so confused after London that I thought my biggest and hottest days as a fan are over. But I think I�m recovering now, with a little help from a wise friend.

Oh, thank you Chloe. What else happened, did you stay after the performance and did he sign programs etc.?

No I didn;t stay behind for an autograph, as it was the last night I thought that the cast and friends would probably be keen to get off to a last night party or something as soon as possible. Besides, the foyer was packed and wouldn;t have been conducive for photos etc which is what I would have really liked. Colin's performance, despite his sore throat was still very powerful and as I say I found him even sexier with a croaky voice! Livia was there (as one would expect on a last night) I also spotted John Malkovitch (?sp) outside chatting to Livia and a friend of hers. However for a last night it was surprisingly un-luvvyish - most of the audience were normal folk!

Does anyone know if Colin will fly out here to LA for the Oscars?

The other Valmont...mmmm, interesting! Do they know each other? This 3DOR stress syndrome...what exactly are the symptoms? As one (of the few!)who has not had a close encounter with the Man Himself, I'd like to know. His performance seems not to have disappointed, you've met him and he's been very obliging and polite, and if he's not really the handsome Mr Darcy, well, he still looks pretty good to me. Is it his sheer normality, the fact that he walks away from the theatre with his wife, and goes back to a flat in Hackney or Islington or wherever, that takes away some of the magic and mystery? Perhaps he should have dashed past you in dark glasses and leaped into a limo? :-) And do you adjust to the reality....the reality sounds rather charming to me! But I wasn't there!!

(Winter)What was the extent of your "meeting Colin?" 'Fess up! Firth of all, let me add my congrats to everyone else's - I understand you've gone another rung up on the egghead ladder. The extent of my meeting Colin was, erm, average. (Elena) PLEASE, tell us in detail what happened on Friday, or didn�t happen. LOL! All right - I'll tell you what didn't happen - it will be a veeeeeeeeery looooooooooong story... (Moon Dreams) we are counting on your critical eye to give us a few thoughts on 3DOR. (We know you have them) The play or the production? Is Colin still dear to your heart after meeting him or not? He is. Did you speak to him? I did. Will you still keep your Darcy posters up in your house? :-D Oh, yes, definitely! (Elena)has the famous 3DOR stress syndrome (!!) caught you too? Like an attack of post-Colin depression, right? Those moments of howling anger and despair: why is there apparently only one such near-perfect specimen (NOT perfect - that would be boring!) that I know about, and why isn't he mine? It takes a lot of concentration and clear thinking to banish the resulting uncharitable thoughts...

Thank you Chole for giving us a peak on the closing night.

I too find it very intriguing that John Malkovich (the lesser Valmont) was there. The Donmar sounds like the place to be. (Has HBC dumped KB?) Although I'm just a little bit sad that it's all over, I await with great anticipation news of what he'll do next. It is impossible that we'll go back to nothing again, isn't it?

(Bethan)Perhaps he should have dashed past you in dark glasses and leaped into a limo? :-) No! What a horrible thought! (Arami)...He is...I did... Lady, are you playing hard-to-get games with us?! :-( (Evelyn) Thank you Chole for giving us a peak on the closing night. Indeed, I add my thanks.

Arami, you know us well enough by now to know that we want ALL the details! How was the production? Did you like his acting? What exactly did you say to him, and what did he answer? (I hope thus helps):-) Chloe, thanks for your report. Did he get the most applause at the end? Do you happen to know where the closing party was and who attended? As Heide said, the Donmar was the place to be. Renate and Kirsten, we look forward to your reports.

(Gi)(Arami)...He is...I did... Lady, are you playing hard-to-get games with us?! :-( Yes, Arami, out with it! Out with it! You know how we are! (Elena) in fact for a moment I felt so confused after London that I thought my biggest and hottest days as a fan are over. I'm intrigued by this. Winter, I believe you made comments along these lines regarding the LA premiere (thought you'd stop posting at Drool, felt somewhat guilty, etc.). I would think the experience of meeting Firth-in-the-flesh would heighten one's fan-dom. Or is meeting him the pinnacle and after that everything else is a letdown (at least initially)? I see by the posts that everyone is reacting differently to their 3DOR experience but as one who still worships from afar (you're not alone, Be han), I'm curious.

It's not so much of a let-down as it was a realization of how real he is, and that engaging in fervent drooling over him made me feel...guilty. Can't explain this well enough, maybe it's the ex-Catholic in me. ;-)

PREMIERE MAGAZINE (US)April, 1999 has just published a list of the "Critic's Choice" :The Nation's Top Critics Rate the 100 Most Noteworthy Films of 1998. #1 SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE #2. Pvt. Ryan LOL Remember last year we were all moping around 'cause the same list had rated ATA #94 in 1997!! TEP was #1 the year before that. And #100 this year is "The Avengers". (Sorry, Rafe) Let's hope ODB stays up there for '99.

One more thing.... THE GENERAL directed by John Boorman is #8. Karen tells me this film took tops at Cannes.Mr. Boorman is the gentleman with whom Colin is enthusiastically shaking hands in the 3 DOR pictures.He attended on Saturday night and K. took the pic. Someone overheard Mr. Boorman congratulating Colin on his performance. Perhaps.....this will produce something positive for Colin. It was really v. courageous of him to take this role. On the other hand also v. astute instead of taking on an old chestnut (another Ibsen!!), he selected a play no one haad ever done before...the London debut for the author.The NY Times compared the author, Richard Greenberg, as the new Edward Albee.!!

Ohmygod, that is one of the reasons I hardly ever go to the theatre in Lisbon: Ibsen and Tcheckov! The main reason is poor acting. They can make you cringe like chalk on board, or go to sleep over a Shakespeare commedy.

Now, what would I give to be in the same room as Colin and John Malkovitch! Do you think JM knows that Colin categorized his performance as making all those "boo-hissy faces." BTW, I saw "Cruel Intentions" yesterday. Funny thing is that the reviewers keep saying that this one is true to the book. Not quite! Actually, this Valmont is closer to Forman's interpretation, i.e., you really like him and there is no doubt whatsoever that he really loves the Madame de Tourvel character who is called Annette H rgrove (Reese Witherspoon). Ending is definitely not the book, not Frears and not Forman. Totally different. But I kind of liked the movie. Go see. Now I only have to find the Roger Vadim version and I will have seen them all!

with the help of Marcia I'm trying to delurk. Sorry about my English, I should have paid more attention in English classes... I saw SIL here in Israel yesterday with two of my friends (a male and a female) and I liked it very much! the female friend and I both agreed that Colin looked great, not at all fat! the male friend thought he played just fine and was very surprised when I told him about TW and GR being Oscar nominees. He didn't even notice them until I told him they are playing in the movie. The only problem in the movie was actually the translation of Colin's name. CF name was written like that: Colin Firs (and this is after P&P, TEP, ATA, and FP were released here with no problem what so ever with Colin's name!) Nobody here (except my friends and family I think) know who CF is, this is quite frustrating. Arami, please tell us more!

Adi, welcome! I'm glad Marcia brought you in!

Ladies , thank you all so much for your recent good wishes and thoughts ( Ben too,) that you have so kindly posted. They meant a great deal to me , and obviously worked as my mother has recovered. I have read the MAMMOTH backlog of posts, which as usual, makes riveting reading. I will relate an amusing anecdote re the sending of the flowers, but now I must sort out and send my photos, or I fear I will never be allowed on here again!!!

Welcome Adi, you have found a wonderful group with which to share your passion. They are supportive , kind and sensitive (to name a few ) but then what other kind of people could Colin attract as his fans? O.K. O.K I'm going to go and send off those photos, ..... really!!!

Sorry if I haven't posted anything yet. I am still trying to sort out myself and my memories. There was hardly any time to think during the 4 Days of Sunshine in London, and I need it badly. Also need some time to fight the Post-Donmar-Blues. But I promise to post a report, later.

Renate, we await your report very eagerly!

Adi dear, thanks for taking the plunge. You are just what we needed. Renate, was CF there?

Lizza, glad you are back and that all is well with your mother. An amusing anecdote, do not keep us waiting long. :-D Welcome Adi, what part of Israel are you from? Have the reviews for SIL been positive? (Karen), Now, what would I give to be in the same room as Colin and John Malkovitch! Me too! And, to be a mind-reader. ;-)

(Renate),I am still trying to sort out myself and my memories. Sounds serious Renate, I hope we will all be of help. (The Firthettes to the rescue!)

(Renate)I am still trying to sort out myself and my memories...also need some time to fight the Post-Donmar-Blues. Renate, that sounds familiar, but it�ll pass. I�m really looking forward to hearing anything you want to tell us......I think the reason for the blues is simply that meeting one�s idol is such a huge thing that one�s mind demands a moment of peace to deal with it. Also, there is the paradox that it�s so easy to feel very close to someone from afar, but meeting him in real life reveals the factual distance. Gi, thanks for the photos, I received them today. Absolutely STRANGE to see myself in the same picture with Colin and Boorman! Can�t be true!!!!! And still it was. It�s funny, I know Boorman�s unusual face well from movies but at that moment I did not recognize him, my mind was totally *somewhere* else. And I�m still wondering about that moustached chap in the pictures, he�s everywhere, doing nothing, just looking around. A bodyguard, I say.

Elena, I wondered about him, too. He does seem to be in them all (photos). But he is not staring sternly in the opposite direction like the ones guarding our officials do. Perhaps he is a groupie and we just have not found their website. That would be amazing reading....Eeeek!

(Elena) one�s mind demands a moment of peace to deal with it. *That* is the essential point. Neither I - nor anybody of you I guess - had time enough to deal with it when it happened. "Nothing is real before it passed through our imagination", to quote dear Stephen Whalby. (Does anyone recall the correct quote?) As much fun as it was, lets face it, it's a heavy stress for many of us. I hope I can make it for chat tomorrow, but surely not before 10, 10.30pm local time. Susan, are you there? I've got something for you :-). Email me with your snail mail address.

I have been a lurker for a long time, wanting to post, really intimidated by all the creative, witty women in your group. Felt I never had anything to contribute until Evelyn suggested I share a tid-bit about the London trip. Have a friendin another group, who went to London, and told me about one of the girls was having a smoke upstairs & looking down at Colin. Inadvertantly, she whispered her thoughts aloud saying"isn't he wonderful" Livia was standing nearby and leaned over to her and said "NOT ALW YS". Well, I am sure any woman can relate, when someone is waxing, ad nauseum, about your DH or significant other. Proves tho that she feels very comfortable in her marriage to say what she wishes--when she wished. Well, I have made my debut !! Ta

Welcome EllieP. We love having you. STick around . (Have to brag that EllieP. is also a JE fan!!) **** I think the Livia comment is priceless. And shows that she has a wonderful sense of humor and is indeed, a v. secure person in her marriage. I have great admiration for her.And she certainly takes good care of ODB. A devoted and handsome couple.

EllieP, if you have chatted at length with me, you have made me very happy with your maiden post. What a joy to see you! When I first posted I was lucky to get out a line or two. Your story is priceless! How charming and disarming it is and how human the two of them are. I just love it. Made my entire week, dear!

(EllieP) Well, I have made my debut !! And what a debut it was :-). Thanks for sharing that funny story. (definitely needed it after a harried day.) And Adi, welcome to you. Your English is wonderful, and I'm glad you decided to join us. Two lovely newbies - a red letter day :-)

Welcome Adi! Welcome Ellie! So happy to have you both here! Any L.A. lurkers around? I've still got an extra seat or two available for our get-together this Saturday. Email me.

Welcome Ellie and Adi, the more the merrier, wee must unite to get this adorable man more well known and appreciated all over the world well not too well known, I don't think any of us want him to to be a Hollywood superstar, whatever that is. Renate we all or nearly all felt that same way as you after meeting the man himself but it will pass and you will once again be eager for news of new projects etc. BTW we haven't heard from Mannon for a while, are you still there Mannon and is Colin fairly well kn wn in Australia?

Adi, Ellie, Welcome! Ellie,I think your story about Livia is one of the best and most heartening stories I have heard. Wasn't it NH who said that she was like CF in being smart, worldly and self-deprecating? That remark says it all. Adi, What are the reviews like in Israel for SIL?

(Livia)"NOT ALWAYS" Ellie, that was great! Makes me love her husband even more (!), and Livia begins to seem more and more like the right one for him. But I�m endlessly curious, forgive me---what did your friend answer to that then??? I�d love to know exactly what makes Livia say such a thing....

Hi, Yes, I'm still here! I've had the flu- Nothing personal. I've just been reading through some of this stuff. I can't believe some of you guys have actually met him! Now, can I have a truthful answer? In real life, close up, are the hands as perfect as they seem in movies and pictures???? Ellie, I loved the story! For some reason I don't think we get to hear enough about Livia... She sounds like a real character. It's not wrong to want to know more about the lovely lady who has captured our favourite actor's heart, is it? I understand Colin is quite big in Australia. (He should be - they've shown P&P enough times - not that there's anything wrong with that!) The only trouble is that we miss out on all the interesting things like Movie premiers and theatre reviews. It is SO unfair. To all those fortunate people who met the man himself, you have my unswerving envy. Can anyone PLEASE tell me any news on upcoming work of his. I might be going to Germany next month and would gladly drop in on London when I'm passing, if he was in town. (At least I'd be on the right side of the hemisphere - Unless, Colin decides that he and Livia deserve a tranquil retreat to Australia's Port Douglas... Just as I'm buckling my seatbelt on the 747 to Germany.) Can anyone tell me the rough age of ladies in drool? I've got an incling that I could be the new baby, but do not be prejudiced.

Welcome Ellie, I also enjoyed your comment.

Welcome home, Renate! (Elena) meeting one�s idol is such a huge thing that one�s mind demands a moment of peace to deal with it. Also, there is the paradox that it�s so easy to feel very close to someone from afar, but meeting him in real life reveals the factual distance. An insightful comment, Elena. Welcome, Adi and Ellie. Good for you, Ellie, you did it! I loved your story as well. She does keep him grounded, doesn't she? Now that you've crossed the threshold, Ellie, I hope you keep posting. Glad you're feeling better, Mannen. Age, shmage! Don't think about it!

Ellie, I'm glad you posted, and hope you'll keep it up,your debut was delightful Drool is getting more and more international, isn't it,with Mannen and Adi joining the group. Mannen, I once knew a comics magazine that contended it was for people from 7 to 77. Drool only asks that you are over the legal age for drinking.

Renate, I just email'd you my snail mail address. You are truly a dear! Looking forward to that report when you've recovered sufficiently.

Welcome Adi and EllieP. How wonderful to have two new ex-lurkers joining us for the post-London debriefings! Remember to check out the other topics: film discussions, keepsakes, and the always popular Darcy Drool--that's what brought us in and will forever keep us here. Great to have you back, Lizza, and great to hear that your mother is better. We anxiously await seeing your pictures. ***If anyone wants their pictures posted like I did for mine, let me know**** (Elena) And I�m still wondering about that moustached chap in the pictures, he�s everywhere, doing nothing, just looking around. A bodyguard, I say. No, hon, he is definitely someone's husband. I'd give you the woman's name, but I'd have to shoot you afterward. ;-) (EllieP)Livia was standing nearby and leaned over to her and said "NOT ALW YS". What a fabulous comment!! Does make one wonder what Colin does that would make her say that. Perhaps, he's difficult to live with when he is getting into a role, tends to act out at home or something like that... Can't imagine that he refuses to take out the trash. ;-) Time for another Letterman-like list: Ten Top Reasons Why Livia Would Say CF Was Not Always Wonderful (aside from the fact that he's just human! ;-)) (Gi) I once knew a comics magazine that contended it was for people from 7 to 77. I'm in there! ;-D

Welcome Ellie, as you can tell, we just "hoover" up any news of ODB and that was a real goody. Any takers yet on why he is difficult to live with?

Surely we are not going to take the word of that Telegraph woman on how ODB is to live with. As for Livia, she doesn't look as if she is having a hard time of it. My DH is hard to live with but he is adorable in spite of that and I am a saint;-)

Karen, photos have begun their journey to drool at last. I was going to post about the flowers, so here goes. When I ordered them, I was waiting smugly for the florist's gasp of recognition as I said his name. Instead she said sharply "How are you spelling that name?" I was instantly brought back to earth with the realisation that there ARE people out there who don't know (or care) who he is!!! On reading the message back to me she said "Colin Frith" and I shrieked "it's FIRTH" . "oh I know how to spell it " she answered, "It's just that I don't know how to say it." These little encounters with reality are very good for me!! In case you are all screaming out in mock horror at my choice of London florists, they did come recommended!! Anyway they certainly know one end of a gerbera from another, even if completely unaware of the sensual appeal of a threadbare green jumper and damp curling tendrils!!!

Renate, we all have shared what you are going through at some time or another but we are eager for anything you want to share with us. Hopefully you will put us out of our misery fairly soon!!

Karen, my pics should be there, I sent about 7 or 9 of them last week to the drool address. Please let me know if you can�t find them.

Mannen, the reason why I asked if Colin is well known in Australia is because the Austalian reviews for SIL seem to give more credit to Colin than say the American ones. I guess Colin still isn't very well known in the States and he has had Fever Pitch released in Australia, have you seen it? Age makes no difference here you are as old or as young as you feel here.

Can anyone explain to me why I cannot get on Chat WITHOUT accepting "A pair of Colin's dirty nickers?" AAHHH what is going on?

We will ask our geeky friends to check it. I recommend not to use chat until then. We can always set up a list meanwhile. Email me all who have been in chat right now.

Lizza, what did you write on the card? Renate, please come back to us soon. :-D Karen that sounds like a top ten list that we could have with. ;-) Why don't you start.

good question Lizza. I checked out and came back with Valmont all over my screen. Strange. Did anyone els came over from chat?

We will ask our geeky friends to check it. I recommend not to use chat until then. We can always set up a list meanwhile. Email me all who have been in chat right now.

Renate tried to email you but it was rejected, will try again.

Ooops. I did not post this one again. I've been back to chat, and have seen that Valmont thing. Someone is trying to play tricks on us. Best would be we ignore it. There's always the private mail option. I'll ask our geeky friends to set up a mailing list for us until this is over.

Renate, your e-mail was returned. I'm having the same problem Lizza is having.

(Renate) I'll ask our geeky friends to set up a mailing list for us until this is over Is that something that will work for now? Or only later, tomorrow perhaps?

Ooops. I did not post this one again. I've been back to chat, and have seen that Valmont thing. Someone is trying to play tricks on us. Best would be we ignore it. There's always the private mail option. I'll ask our geeky friends to set up a mailing list for us until this is over.

Hi, is it not enough that my computer throws me off line more often than not, and now we have to get thrown out of chat by some stupid jerk whose idea of fun is to cause chaos in a roomful of women?

Got your mail, Kirsten. Apparently mine has been sent to everyone? i don't know Carola's, though.

Ooops. I did not post this one again. I've been back to chat, and have seen that Valmont thing. Someone is trying to play tricks on us. Best would be we ignore it. There's always the private mail option. I'll ask our geeky friends to set up a mailing list for us until this is over.

Excuse my speech impediment. Rare kind of stutter :-).

Checked my computer for viruses, but I have only an old version of the virus scanner, this might be a good time to look for an update.

Well I suppose that's it then for today. Will have another try tomorrow. See you then.

Excuse my speech impediment. Rare kind of stutter :-).

(I haven't mastered the italics bit yet, so please bear with me.) Ann, I loved Fever Pitch. Although Mr Darcy is (for most) the average woman's ideal man, Paul showed Colin in a different light, which I found fascinating. He seemed more approachable. (and I'm not referring to Darcy's brooding scowl either!)More real. The Australian reviews for SIL were quite good. One actually made reference to 'the most popular man that women want to see naked was old Mr Riding-Breeches himself, Colin Firth.' -trying out a somewhat different role as the villian Wessex. Speaking for myself, I agree 100%. I think Colin would be difficult to live with as he strikes me as being quite a serious person. I mean, I've heard he has a great sense of humour and everything, but he seems the type to take work and life in general very seriously. (Other than that, I can't possibly see what Livia's talking about. In the same situation, I'm certain I'd be blissfully content wearing my rose-coloured glasses for the rest of my life.) In pictures of Mr and Mrs Firth, she always looks very mischievous and he appears more th -dare I say it- "father figure". How much younger than he, is Livia? It seems like she would enjoy teasing, if not shocking him.

Moon, I got through now, hope you did too.

I have been having the same troubles you all have and I have just gotten a flood of Email which was piled up somewhere with the chat problem! Answering them as quickly as possible!

(Mannen)an anyone tell me the rough age of ladies in drool? Sorry, that's classified material...Top Secret:-)) (Gi) I once knew a comics magazine that contended it was for people from 7 to 77. (Karen)I'm in there! ;-D So am I :-) ****** Why Livia said..."Not Always" I bet he leaves the toilet seat up and socks on the floor...like every other man. *** Welcome Adie , pardon my bad manners. (I already welcomed EllieP. who has been a JE Lending Library patron.) *****

Mannon, I believe Livia is 28 although she looks much younger and Colin is 38 and looks about 32.

Hopeless! Can�t stay in Chat for more than two minutes before something strange happens again and again, like getting into a Virtual London tour when posting a message. Better keep away.

(Ann)I believe Livia is 28 Excuse me...Livia is 29. But does look 16.He is 9 years older than she...or so reported in an article.

Yes, I think we should leave chat alone for a while. The geeks will see to it. But I don't know why I shouldn't talk about him here. Again: CF gave a brilliant performance at the Donmar, even with a bad cold. It is a pity he doesn't do more theatre. He has a great stage presence, is full of energy, commanding the room.

I got the same London Tour Elena, think I will call it a day, the hacker has won! Good night all.

Excuse me...Livia is 29. But does look 16 I was also surprised how young she looks: I would believe 16 every time. And she is indeed very, very pretty.

Renate-I have tried e-mailing you 3 times-per your request for difficulties at chat. I was refused with the claim that your e-mail address was mispelled. Perhaps the problem is on my end-maybe it's the y2k compliant

I hope whoever is screwing up Chat doesn't find us here. They would indeed have a field day. Welcome Adi! I believe you've posted here once before a little while back. I'm glad to see you've decided to stay. Welcome Ellie! It didn't take you too long to get here. Don't let our bad jokes fool you into thinking we're particularly bright. We just know each other and you will soon too. Mannen, I've always envied the laid-back Australian lifestyle. They can gleefully refer to him as the man most women want to see naked and not feel they have to apologize about it. We have a few other Aussies here who will make themselves known occasionally. Loved Ellie's story. Can it mean he's...gasp...human? Perhaps he nags her about smoking. There's nothing worse than a reformed smoker (ducking for cover). Lizza, loved your flower story too. Frith...Firth....the lady must have had a speech impediment. I have an extra program, unsigned unfortunately. Any takers? E-mail me.

I hope whoever is screwing up Chat doesn't find us here. They would indeed have a field day. I wonder if someone is saving the new messages daily? Karen, Heide, do you know? It was started after the disappearance of boards way back when. Is it still continued? Not only had I the trouble with chat, but my program went mad reposting and reposting the same messages here, and then I had a *VERY* strange call of someone who told me *not* to quit the line for the next 45 minutes because of technical reasons.... how stupid can someone be?

Another link in chat you are transported to: Marcia's musical flute. To all in chat who emailed me: Please forgive me if I don't answer all mails you sent me during this interruption.

the man most women want to see naked Why? O:-)

FINALLY! I have made it though all the posts and gotten caught up! It's been so easy to get behind during the last week or so. Karen- love the idea for the top ten list! who's going to start it? Lizza- I'm so happy your mum's doing better! And do tell us what you wrote to Colin on the card! (loved the Frith/Firth story, btw) :) Adi- Welcome! Your English is lovely (in truth, you write as clearly as I do, and I have not your excellent excuse!) I am always impressed with people who can communicate in several languages. I attempted to learn German once, but after a couple of months my teacher bribed me with a passing grade if I promised never to take any of her classes again. (some lame excuse about me obviously not getting it) :) Elli- Welcome also! I loved your Livia story! I must admit she intrigues me. What is this woman like, the one who stole ODB's heart? I too would like to hear more about your friend's conversation with her. Heidi- I would very much like to have the extra program if it's still available, I shall email you the moment I get home. (-currently trapped at work. I think my company should be obligated to help support my CF habit as part of its mental and physical health program!) :) Ann- A Very Happy (and very late) Birthday! Many, many returns of the day! Jenn- Yippee! Congratulations! Go bake on Hawaii for a while to celebrate. Maybe take a stroll in Hilo, take in a softball game, drop by to chat with the lovely lady running the tee shirt/baseball hat stand. :) Just a suggestion.

I just came from chat but didn't see anything about Valmont. Nan and Myr had been there so perhaps they took care of the problem. Marcia e-mailed me a picture of the group at 3DOR. Good looking bunch. Did Myretta or Nan go? When are the pics going to be posted?

Welcome Adi and Ellie and thanks ellie for that priceless insight... --Difficult to live with?? I suppose it depends on your temperament and what time of the month it is... I would guess his tendency to wax passionate about certain issues combined with his being so articulate about his views...(remember, Kate complained that she could NEVER win an argument with him?...) might seem troublesome at times. I suspect he would probably have a tendency to analyze things to death. And given the about-turns and his ability to see both side of an issue might render life with him a bit--um--confusing at times. Maybe he just keeps knocking over the salt shaker during dinner discussio s... But since she seems goodhumored about his faults--whatever they are-- I'm sure he knows how to make it up to her--thoroughly. :-)

(Renate) I wonder if someone is saving the new messages daily? Karen, Heide, do you know? It was started after the disappearance of boards way back when. Is it still continued? We had it set up so that all the boards were automatically saved every night. You might have to check with Terry to see if he turned it off. I don't have the access I need to check myself, sorry. Renate contacted me about the weirdness of chat. Near as I can tell, some wiseass is having a good time at our expense. I doubt it's some 16 year old boy--who, I imagine, would rather harass the DiCaprio chatrooms. I'm sorry I wasn't there to deal with it, ladies. Pity, because I'm in just the right mood to kick some troll butt. In fact, were I not on a public board I would be swearing like a sailor. Anyway, there were 2 problems: 1) Being rerouted to other pages (the Marcia Musical Flute and Tower of London Pages). The records show that someone who logged in as "Ellie" embedded a meta tag in her post that sent everyone to those other URLs and 2) Someone logging in as "Lilith" embedded a Javascript message into her post about the server being down. So every time you tried to refresh the page, one of those 2 things would happen. So, it isn't anything horrible...just some douche who has nothing better to do. (pardon the vulgarity, but it was either that or the F word). If I'm around, I can get rid of those people, but when I'm not you are free to use the Exile board...though that's not really a chat room. If you want I can set up an additional chat room for just such emergencies (the location of which we can circulate in email) or I can set up a mailing list. Whichever you prefer. Let me know. BTW, sorry I haven't been around. Glad you all enjoyed 3DOR. Sorry I missed it. And Evelyn, thanks for the program you excellent creature! ;-)

Nan You left chat just when I logged on. I had no problems though, I thought you and Myr might have solved it.

(Renate) I wonder if someone is saving the new messages daily? Karen, Heide, do you know? It was started after the disappearance of boards way back when. Is it still continued? We had it set up so that all the boards were automatically saved every night. You might have to check with Terry to see if he turned it off. I don't have the access I need to check myself, sorry. Renate contacted me about the weirdness of chat. Near as I can tell, some wiseass is having a good time at our expense. I doubt it's some 16 year old boy--who, I imagine, would rather harass the DiCaprio chatrooms. I'm sorry I wasn't there to deal with it, ladies. Pity, because I'm in just the right mood to kick some troll butt. In fact, were I not on a public board I would be swearing like a sailor. Anyway, there were 2 problems: 1) Being rerouted to other pages (the Marcia Musical Flute and Tower of London Pages). The records show that someone who logged in as "Ellie" embedded a meta tag in her post that sent everyone to those other URLs and 2) Someone logging in as "Lilith" embedded a Javascript message into her post about the server being down. So every time you tried to refresh the page, one of those 2 things would happen. So, it isn't anything horrible...just some douche who has nothing better to do. (pardon the vulgarity, but it was either that or the F word). If I'm around, I can get rid of those people, but when I'm not you are free to use the Exile board...though that's not really a chat room. If you want I can set up an additional chat room for just such emergencies (the location of which we can circulate in email) or I can set up a mailing list. Whichever you prefer. Let me know. BTW, sorry I haven't been around. Glad you all enjoyed 3DOR. Sorry I missed it. And Evelyn, thanks for the program you excellent creature! ;-)

Lizza I'm glad to hear that your mother is better.

(Renate) I wonder if someone is saving the new messages daily? Karen, Heide, do you know? It was started after the disappearance of boards way back when. Is it still continued? We had it set up so that all the boards were automatically saved every night. You might have to check with Terry to see if he turned it off. I don't have the access I need to check myself, sorry. Renate contacted me about the weirdness of chat. Near as I can tell, some wiseass is having a good time at our expense. I doubt it's some 16 year old boy--who, I imagine, would rather harass the DiCaprio chatrooms. I'm sorry I wasn't there to deal with it, ladies. Pity, because I'm in just the right mood to kick some troll butt. In fact, were I not on a public board I would be swearing like a sailor. Anyway, there were 2 problems: 1) Being rerouted to other pages (the Marcia Musical Flute and Tower of London Pages). The records show that someone who logged in as "Ellie" embedded a meta tag in her post that sent everyone to those other URLs and 2) Someone logging in as "Lilith" embedded a Javascript message into her post about the server being down. So every time you tried to refresh the page, one of those 2 things would happen. So, it isn't anything horrible...just some douche who has nothing better to do. (pardon the vulgarity, but it was either that or the F word). If I'm around, I can get rid of those people, but when I'm not you are free to use the Exile board...though that's not really a chat room. If you want I can set up an additional chat room for just such emergencies (the location of which we can circulate in email) or I can set up a mailing list. Whichever you prefer. Let me know. BTW, sorry I haven't been around. Glad you all enjoyed 3DOR. Sorry I missed it. And Evelyn, thanks for the program you excellent creature! ;-)

Dammit! Now it's double-posting in here. Technology is pissing me off today.

Maybe he's like my husband when he's not feeling well. Believe me I would rather have 6 sick kids than one sick husband. Perhaps that's what Livia is talking about when she said "Not always."

I envy all of you who were lucky enough to see Colin Firth in person. I know that some of you felt that the experience was somewhat anti-climatic, but However, now that some time has passed how do you feel about it now? If you had a chance to do it over again would you or wouldn't you choose to see him in person? Happy Belated Birthday Anne. Lizza I"m glad to hear your mother is improving.

Happy BIrthday Ann.... Welcome new comers. I am so glad to have you post. I lurked for months.Everyone loves our DB that is why we are all here. I want to read the article where Livia says NOT ALWAYS... where is it. I have missed several days. I am having a crisis in my life that throws me around every now and then

Oh, please tell me what you got when you accessed Marcia's Magic Flute!!! I cannot imagine, but I sure would have chacked it offered the option! Sheer gall and other things I cannot say here. Susan A. Hello! Jenn and SBR come and join the fun in Hilo!!! Bring guaranteed sunshine!!! Is someone telling me not to post to much? Nan, we've missed you Dear!

Susan, hi and welcome, its wasn't that meeting Colin was an anti-climax, it was wonderful meeting him in person and seeing that he is actually more gorgeous i real life than on the screen, it was oh its hard to explain its just that one is so in awe and you feel things can't get better that this but they can and I am over it now and looking forward to his next project, next interview and MLSF,also his performance on stage was spell-binding and I think I was possibly in shock after meeting my and everyon else's favourite actor, how many people can say that. .

Nan, glad to have you with us - and a triple post can be nice sometimes;-)

Some thoughts about our 3DOR adventure (part I): I must confess I still have the feeling that all this hasn't happened to me really, it is as if I had just been to see another Colin Firth film. It's all at a distance, so unreal. Well, it really has been a �distance" on Friday night because Renate, Carola (still a lurker at Spring, but you may know her from the chat) and I had seats in the circle, second row, left side. So we hardly could see what was happening on the left side of the stage - and there's much of the action - the view was disturbed by a g id railing, but on the other side we had a good view on what was going on on the gallery. But I must confess that I sometimes hardly could look at them there - since I can't stand heights myself I always thought they might fall down when they got too close to the edge because the railing ended half way through. After the show we went down to wait for CF. But as I knew before I felt that I couldn't by any chance ask for an autograph, not even take pictures, let alone ask for one with me and him. Though I know it's just �normal fan-behaviour" and really nothing despicable to do, I would have felt awkward to do things like this to a person to whom I am a complete stranger. So I gave my camera to Carola and positioned myself near the entrance door and restricted myself to watch Colin from a distance. But thought tha I would unquestionably be the only fan without an autograph of ODB although I had the opportunity to ask for it. But the autograph thing was not what me disappointed, what me really annoyed was my inability to overcome my shyness at such an opportunity. But all that really doesn't matter, I've seen him on stage and that's what I came for. (I'll try to post some of my thoughts about the play and the actors' performances later in the discussion. We will discuss it, won't we?) Saturday night we had the best possible places in the stalls, left side, first row just near the famous bed. I really relished this second performance. Not only because of the better point of view but because I was less excited than the day before. I tried to find out why and the only reason I could think of was that either it was because all this was so unreal or it was because seeing him acting was so familiar his mannerisms so well-known (although again Walker and Ned are completely different character from the ones we already knew) , a bit like watching a film with him only a bit closer. Though I was really worried about his voice in this performance. Especially in the first act where Walker has quite a lot to say and always in this excited way. Luckily it seemed to be easier in the second act since Ned is a less eloquent character although he couldn't help but clear his throat or even cough in that one too. But as Chloe said, his sore throat didn't affect his powerful performance in a bad way, it cou d have been part of the character.

Some thoughts about our 3DOR adventure (part II): As the night before I didn't try to get near Colin but watched him from a distance when he finally came down to meet his fans. I was standing at the wall somewhere in the middle of the foyer. Although there were more fans I think than the evening before I could catch some very good looks at him. When he was still more in the back of the foyer I saw a little boy standing near me with something in his hands obviously waiting for an autograph and I was astonished to see him there since he seemed not to be a ypical Firth fan. Then I recognised the person on the photographs he was holding what even increased my astonishment because it was John Malkovich. But in the same moment I saw why he was there because JM just came down the stairs. He only signed one or two pictures but refused to sign more. I like the thought of Valmont meeting Valmont. When Colin passed by me on his way to the entrance there was a woman offering him a cough drop - what a nice idea - sorry, couldn't catch what she said but he replied smi ing �It's a bit late now" (something like that). And I saw him - only half way through with his fans - checking with the lady who was there to close the doors whether he could go on with his fans. He just sent her an enquiring look and she nodded generously (good girl ). And now another think which proves the character of a real friend (unlike me, the scaredy-cat). Saturday night Carola took my program with her to ask Colin to sign it for her �friend who is too shy" and he did (he even got my name right, good spelling job, Carola I hope you'll come out of lurkdom and tell the story in your own words.). And I didn't ask her for it! would never have dared! Although I'm usually not that keen on autographs it goes without saying that I surely am very happy to have that on , to have friends who take such a trouble for me and that I certainly keep it as a most precious treasure! Well, that's all I can think of at the moment. I fear my account is a bit muddled up. But I really feel like I have lived through this only in a state of a shock - you know like after an accident or some terrible event, when your mind tries to protect you from an emotional overflow by blocking out the reality, the excitement and nervousness is replaced by an apparent calmness but it also hinders you to take note in a proper way of what is happening around you. Though I really felt quite calm but also had he feeling like I was watching all this from an outsider position, as if I had not really been there. Really the feeling now is quite similar to the one before the trip when I only have read about your encounters. Strange. Well I don't know, that's just it. And it goes without saying that the whole weekend has been wonderful. Not only because of the play but very much also because we were able to meet some other Firth fans what has been quite an experience and I enjoyed it very much..

(Kirsten)what made me really annoyed was my inability to overcome my shyness at such an opportunity. But all that really doesn't matter, I've seen him on stage and that's what I came for.....I have lived through this only in a state of a shock Thank-you so much for your lovely and sincere report, Kirsten, it brought it all back to me like it was yesterday. Pity I didn�t make such a detailed report here on all that in time, don�t know if I could anymore. I�ve been remembering the Donmar evening in bits and pieces and flashes, like �oh yes, that�s how it was�, on and on. About shyness...I understand it well that you wanted just to watch him, not to go close or talk to him, and I do not think that you really missed anything important. Maybe I should�ve done the same thing actually, or not meet him at all, cos it really was the play I went to see and the play was what he wanted to give to his audience in the first place. What I regret very much is that I didn�t take my tiny video camera with me and film the whole happening in the foyer!!! What an unique opportunity I lost.

Thank you very much Kirsten for your lovely report! I have no doubt that I also would have been to shy to approach the DB, doubtless just being in the same room as him would have reduced me to a blathering idiot! How fortunate that you had a friend come to your rescue and secure his signature! (Carola, delurk already!) :)

Thanks you Kirsten. I'm not sure how I would act in such a situation. Would I be shy or would another persona come out and talk to him. I hope I will be lucky enough to find out in the future. ;-) Renate, do post here, we want to know more.

TOP TEN REASONS WHY LIVIA THINKS COLIN IS NOT ALWAYS WONDERFUL: 10. He hides her cigarette packs. 9. He forbids her to say �It�s only a game�. 8. She wants to live in Chelsea he wants to live in Islington. 7. Hates Bridget Jones�s Diary. 6. He confuses her panna cotta for cr�me brul�e. 5. He hates Ramazzotti. 4.He takes her waxing appointments at the salon. 3.He wears those Arsenal boxers much too often. 2.He bites his nails. 1. He won�t do Darcy.

LOL Moon over your top ten. Haven�t been able to post in a while, writing the paper from hell!! Happy Birthday Ann! Lizza, I hope your mother is doing better. Welcome to all the newbies. Kristen I got chills from reading your story and from anticipating what would happen next. I understand how your feel--my hands were shaking so much just from taking his picture I�m surprised anything showed up on the film.

Welcome to all delurkers, it's good to have you along. Thanks for continued good wishes for my mother too. Nan, thanks for explaining last night's weird episode to us.

Moon, what a great top ten. I can vouch that he doesn't have smelly feet (well not on March 6th) having been exceptionally close to them!! So Livia probably does not get wild about "ripe" socks. In one interview (Guardian?) it said he drinks Nescafe!!! Good God, I find that impossible to believe, but IF he does that would drive any self respecting Italian to distraction I should think. I am excited about meeting with some friends this evening,who are eager to see and share my Donmar photos/experiences. It is times like these that compensate for the "low" periods, when "I can't believe it happened " and "What else is there to look forward to when I 've met him" etc start to take over. Ann has expressed this so well and I guess we will all come out of it sooner or later. Haven't forgotten your flower info requests BTW.

Hello everybody, well, there you catched me. No way to lurk a little longer. Thank to all, I enjoyed the time I spent here so far very much. Thanks to Kirsten who let me get the autograph for her. So I had the best of all possible excuses to approach the man. And he recognised me from the day before and I received the most wonderful smile. ;-) Cheers Carola

(Moon)I hope I will be lucky enough to find out in the future. ;-) So do I Moon, and I�ll be there too if I get a chance. After all, it�s pretty great to have the fantastic opportunity to be painfully shy and mumble unintelligently in His presence!

Kirsten, your report was wonderful, thanks for sharing it. I know what you mean about feeling like you're outside yourself, watching it happen -- you expressed that so nicely. Moon, your top 10 had me LOL. Can't wait to see what others come up with; I myself am not feeling anywhere near witty enough to attempt one. I figured out what I like most about Livia volunteering that comment to Ellie's friend: it seemed to show that, at worst, she thinks Colin's fans are harmless (as opposed to celebrity-stalking weirdos) and at best she realizes we're intelligent ladies with impeccable good taste in men;-)

(SusanA.)If you had a chance to do it over again would you or wouldn't you choose to see him in person? Are you kidding? I'd walk over women and children..... **** Thank you Nan and Myretta for repairing chat. I was there at 10PM last night and they were still working diligently. We're so lucky to have these techies on board. ***** Kirsten....Your report was lovely ...I read it twice.But you should have been there the week before with all the other Spring Droolies. As someone said "There is strength in numbers"...also we had had several glasses of wine with dinner:-).And I can assure you I would not have let you stand alone without having been in the picture. As the group can attest....Colin and I were having a battle about placing people in the picture. He was in rare form that night...wouldn't you agree girls? **** Welcome Carola...what a true friend you are. (Kirsten)I would unquestionably be the only fan without an autograph of ODB I didn't get an autograph...they don't mean much to me. But I was determined to get a group picture:-)

I can't keep up with you, ladies! So many postings, and how marvellous to see more de-lurkers taking the plunge. The more the merrier! I'll add to the list of suggestions for " Mr Not Always Wonderful" :-) Here goes... 1. Not a handyman (inability to fix stero speakers) 2. Accident prone (said speakers falling on head) 3. Absent minded (the 3DOR experience..open zippers and visible price tags!) 4. Messy in kitchen (own confession) 5. Clings to old bachelor haunts (after 14 years (14 years!!!)in Hackney, makes mega-move all the way to next door Islington!..But has also bought flat near mum-in-law in Rome, so can be forgiven) 6. Probably prefers (very loud) Bruce Springsteen to Italian opera Inspiration fails me (Top Six only)...over to you! I've loved reading all glowing 3DOR reports, and am so glad he managed to fight off the cold/cough in the last performance. Hope he went straight to bed with a hot toddy! I shall have a touch of the post-Colin blues myself, when the reports come to an end. Winter, congrats on your Masters, and it's good to hear that your mum is okay again, Lizza.

He bites his nails. Oh, no, he doesn't...

He bites his nails. Oh, no, he doesn't... Check again my dear.

He bites his nails. Oh, no, he doesn't... Check again my dear. I saw his hands... up close and personal...clipped short...but not bitten.

Maybe he's conquered his nail biting habit! That and giving up smoking all in one year- well done Colin! (or maybe I should say 'well done Livia') :)

Thanks, Kirsten and Carola for giving us your stories. Each perspective is unique. Kirsten, I was more like you but I am so grateful that I had a bunch of Carolas with me because what I have to treasure now would never have happened without them. Enough of my sentimental claptrap, those nails look clipped down to the quick and then some.

--My, my--you're making the DB sound like a reformed nervous wreck!! Wouldn't our energies be put to better use to work their miraculous healing powers (as they seemed to do for Lizza's Mum) on poor sick DB, now langouring in bed with an illness brought on by the intense expenditure of concentration and energy due two weeks of the vigorous demands of performances--both on stage and in lobbies--which was carried off with aplomb! Get well CF!!!

--Oog!! I meant "languishing" of course!!

LOL at your top 10 list, Moon, a riot. Glad to see you continuing Bethan. How about this one: Can't stop him from shopping at Oxfam's thrift store. ;-) Wonderful account of your trip Kirsten and Carola and a big welcome to you too. Regardless of how you felt, you performed an invaluable service. No one, but no one has documented his clothing as you did. You are forgiven for not noticing the shoes on the first night. Sounds like our two groups hit the same hot spots: Highbury and antique shopping, although I would say the stuff in Portobello Rd was more like junque! :-) I still tingle with the thought that I was there, saw CF perform his little heart out, talked to him (sort of), got his autograph and there are photographs to prove we were all in the same space, breathing the same air (and I am going to continue deluding myself that he had his hand on my shoulder and it was not yours, Evelyn!!) What memories! What great memories! Wish everyone here could have been with us, but you were in spirit and many if not all of you have the little bits of memorabilia that we brought home. *sigh*

Welcome Carola and Kirsten, these accounts keep us going. So glad you have joined us. Evelyn, you are too modest in not revealing how gently assertive you were with CF that night. Would he dare to refuse YOU? (Cue dialogue from the first proposal scene in P&P!!!) You had the presence of mind in a situation that many of us did not possess. Just saw a lot of Wessex scenes on breakfast TV re Oscars which has set me up for the day ahead. Sadly not a daily occurance over here.

Media watch report...two snippets from the UK press... Tere's an item about another legal suit against Miramax for "stealing" the plot line for SIL, which was filed "as virtually the entire SIL cast gathers in LA to celebrate the film's 13 Oscar nominations". So does this mean that CF is in LA? I think possibly not as he was marginalised in the pre-Oscar run-up, and then wasn't mentioned in the BAFTA nominations. Tom Wilkinson could be there along with the other principals. Another news item, not really "new "news. Sice the demise of Polygram, the state of the British film industry has gone from bad to worse. It is now becoming virtuually impossible for British films without a US distributor to reach the screens in the UK. This means that they are also not picked up by cable (Sky etc) who go for standard Hollywood fare, and also, most depressingly of all, are not released on video or shown on TV. A lot of good films starring well known actors are gathering dust and wi l never be seen. EeeecH! Evelyn....HELP!! What exactly did your bank contact say? Are they still trying to sell SLOW (distribution rights, or the entire film) Is a video release always a last resort possibility? Are you ringing them again, or is that it? I really feel that SLOW may just disappear (AND it's a romantic role...grrrr!!). Can it not be shown at festivals...there are a lot of Back festivals in the US, and there's an African Film Festival next month in NY. SLOW isn't mainstream commercial and probably film festivals could be the the best option. But it sounds as though there's little hope from the UK end. Evelyn, anyone else, any bright ideas?!!!

Done in haste, and, as usual, loads of typos! Sorry! I think it's still readable, just.

yes it is so depressing isn'y it. Quality verus Fodder for the Masses. Quite a lot on TV this morning re Miramax massive budget devoted to promoting SIL pre 21st March. Forcing smaller studios to respond even tho' they don't have the cash upfront etc It will serve Miramax right if ODB stays home, ironically HE is in most of the clips not Tom Wilkinson, but I should imagine John Madden will miss him. They seem to get on so well. I wonder if Martin Clunes will be there looking like a reject from a Doctor Who Fashion parade? (Ouch)!!

Yes Bethan , typos are obviously catching too. Sorry about mine.

I've started reading 3DOR for the discussion and realized that the way the play starts might describe your feelings after having met Colin. "Something happens somewhere, makes a noice, the noice travels, charts the distance: The Story of a Moment." You certainly had that moment.

Glad to hear that chat is repaired. Was that wierd, or what? Also glad to see you posting, Carola and Kirsten. Loved your top 10/top 6, Moon and Bethan! You captured anything I would have said (messiness, way he dresses, etc.). BTW, does Livia smoke?? Hard to believe she does if he quit (sorry, it's the staunch anti-smoker in me...):-) Don't know if Colin will be at Oscars on Sunday (cons: seems he doesn't go for that sort of thing, esp. when not nominated and being virtually ignored. Pros: Harvey requires cast to show(?); he's probably in LA to see his son after Donmar-forced absence). If he is there, it may not make the broadcast. Regardless, we should be treated to many clips featuring dear old Wessex!

(KJArt) Wouldn't our energies be put to better use to work their miraculous healing powers (as they seemed to do for Lizza's Mum) on poor sick DB, now langouring in bed with an illness Quite right my dear. I for one am more than willing to volunteer my services as his nurse. I can sit by his bedside, and bath his fevered brow, rub his temples, run my fingers though his glorious (if somewhat diminshed) hair -perhaps even take a moment to wind one of his adorable curls around my finger. Really, Anything I can do to help the DB feel better ;)

In addition to recovering from his flu bug, wonder if Colin is, like some of us here, suffering from post-3DOR letdown, I mean, imagine: one week you have people coming from all over the world to see you and telling you how great you are, the next, you're back in Islington taking out the garbage and doing the dishes...

Darcy doing the dishes? I would guess those long digits are best employed stacking the dishwasher( with copious cups of Nescafe in between of course!!).

OT: One degree of separation. http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/dynamic/hottx/theatre/review.html?in_review_id=122292&in_review_text_id=102362 Trevor Nunn's Troilus and Cressida, which includes David Bamber (Mr. Collins) as Pandarus and Raymond Coulthard ("What's the first anniversary?" TEP) as Achilles is roundly thrashed by the critic.

Chris (Luvvy), do we have you to thank for the "Firth on Stage" page? Do tell!!!

Lizza what "Firth on Stage" page do you have its address, I thought I knew all CF pages.

Lizza what "Firth on Stage" page do you have its address, I thought I knew all CF pages. We are all human...;-0 Chris's page on the plays Colin has appeared in can be accessed from cf.com's off-site links. It shows the playbills, gives the cast listings, reviews, and pictures. A luvvy-ily job!

(Karen)...and I am going to continue deluding myself that he had his hand on my shoulder and it was not yours, Evelyn!!) Ok, Ok, so the guy has three arms...one on Jana's shoulder, one on yours and one on Lizza:-) **** Lizza ...Evelyn, you are too modest in not revealing how gently assertive you were with CF that night. Would he dare to refuse YOU? Hey, you make me sound like Cruella De Ville. Actually, I was v. polite in my request and he consented readily:-) A nice man. ***** (Moon) "Something happens somewhere, makes a noice, the noise travels, charts the distance: The Story of a Moment." 3 DOR You certainly had that moment. V. insightful of you Moon...I thought of the same thing ...we all shared that magical moment.Like I said...rarely does one get a second chance at these moments. Gotta grab 'em the first time around. **** I feel v. indebted to Chris (Luvvy) for alerting us to 3 DOR at the Donmar. Thank you....I am eternally grateful:-) ***** Bethan..Re: SLOW. I shall call next week. Hate to call every week. I don't think the bank is interested in Film Festivals.Or at least they weren't last autumn.Some films never do sell and that is a fact of life.Didn't someone ask Colin about SLOW and he remarked "I don't think it will ever be released".Happens. Ralph Fiennes' "Onegin"still doesn't have a distrib either. *** I think it would be torture to sit through the Oscars if one was not a nominee.There's a limit to what Harvey can ask of a man.Esp. since he didn't mention his name at GG.Thanked everyone 'cept for Colin and the dog. Grrrr. I'm still pissed off about that.Shocking!! ****

Since Moon provided that lovely quote from the play, let's start talking about the play. Even though not everyone has seen it, many more have the script in their hot little hands and have read it. So here goes: Ned is the most important character in the play. His mood, his personality, and his thoughts set everything in motion and color our thinking about all the other characters. How would you describe his character? Is he brilliant? Is he really lonely? Is is truly a misfit? What IS his problem?

Sorry, I'm moving the discussion to #98 - Film Discussions. Forgot where I was for a second. Yes, Evelyn, he can have all the hands he needs to fulfill MY fantasies!

Only if you wonder what Valmont is doing again in chat - no troll, but only me. I tried to change the pic, not too successfully, and now I cannot go back apparently. Sorry.

Evelyn, YOU are hardly the Cruella type, but you certainly know how to get devastatingly handsome (3 handed) men to do what you want!!! Heide, I am all for 98, well I would be if it wasn't bedtime!! Thanks for setting it up for us.

There's a limit to what Harvey can ask of a man. Agreed. But there may be a post-Oscar celebratory bash, and maybe, just maybe CF will attend {Sore throat permitting!) It's a chance to see young Master Will (not Shakespeare) and after all that socialising during the 3DOR run, well, life in Islington could seem rather dull! Just watched an hour long preview of the Oscars on CNN. For someone whose name is rarely mentioned, there seemed to be a lot of CF...both with GP and JD...they always seemed to show his scenes. It's at times like this that I quite like Harvey! Bethan..Re: SLOW. I shall call next week. Oh, many, many thanks Evelyn! We're relying on you...although I do appreciate that you can't call too often. I guess I'm almost resigned to the fact that a theatrical release may never happen, but I'd like to think we could buy the video...eventually...I'd pay tops! The new Film Four channel in the UK shows films like SLOW, and there's also an independent distributor Artificial Eye who pick up foreign/arthouse type movies. But there's not much profit to be made in either option, and I'm sure the Bank kno s all the right moves. Anyway, thanks again for pursuing this!

Ooh-er, a plague on all those italics. What have I done?

testing testing

I do not think Colin will attend the Oscars. He does not seem to be the type that would go just for the parties. He will probably go to LA during Easter break when Will has a week off. Besides, he may wish to pick up a hammer and hang a few things at his new flat, put up the speakers etc, etc. ;-) Of course, I will still keep an eye out for DB at the Oscars, Livia just might talk him into it (perfect opportunity to wear her new Armani gown). He does look good in black tie, remember TEP?

test

I don't think he'll be at the Oscars either but don't think I'm not going to watch just in case. I watched GP on A&E's Biography last night. Wasn't worth the bother - they kept cutting from the SIL scenes right before Wessex was to appear. Ladies, anyone interested in Arsenal (sorry, Ben), check out this site: Arsenal and if you go to the Shopping section, you can get your Christmas purchases now!! Surely someone you know would love that Arsenal musical alarm clock or bean bag chair. How about the double duvet? It's still marked at half price. For people who still use snail mail, the Arsenal stationary is just the thing. Don't forget to get the Arsenal wrapping paper to finish it off. Unfortunately, the boxer shorts only come in white, no red to be found but I might get that Arsenal mouse pad. By the way, Karen and I knew our trip to London was off to a good start when the panhandling musician got on the Osterley tube stop going into London and proceeded to entertain us with Van Morrison's "Bright Side of the Road" (you know, the celebration tune near the end of the Fever Pitch). Needless to say, he earned a few coins.

I think Karen should give us a picture of herself modeling the red Arsenal stocking cap that she bought at the Portobello Road flea market. !!

I don't think he'll be there (not unless Livia is a big fan of Roberto Bernigni!). But I'd check out the acceptance speeches if GP and JD make it to the podium...hopefully they won't do a Harvey! Evelyn, is this good news for SLOW? Front page headline in Sunday Telegraph Business scection "New direction for Handmade Films". Goes on to say that Handmade Films, previously owned by Paragon Entertainmment which went into receivership, has now been bought (for �1.7million) by Parallel Pictures production company. No information about Parallel, except that it's quoted on the Aim (what's that?). But it seems as though Handmade is back in business.

It's suspiciously quiet here, and I get several delivery failures in mail. Does anyone know if a transatlantic line is disturbed or something? Or do I have to have a word with ISP ? To all of you who shared the wonderful Donmar event: what about a review, from your point of view, for the firth.com page? Not a long one, if you don't want, and not too drooly (alas), but we shouldn't leave the field to the professional critics only. And Karen, from you I would like to have the double NY/London review ;-).

At the Independant Spirit Awards last night Miramax was honored with the Stash Award: for buying the most films and keeping them stashed away. What does this say for MLSF? Renate, I have tried to e-mail you to no avail. If you have sent your thoughts electronically, I would like to be included. I shall try you again.

Renate, it was returned once more. :-(

Miramax was honored with the Stash Award: for buying the most films and keeping them stashed away. What does this say for MLSF? I wonder if anybody ever tried to find out the reason for this? Renate, I have tried to e-mail you to no avail. Oy. I just put my doubts re my email account to rest, and now this. Here's the address again: renate@twinwave.net However: maybe somebody else can help you, Gi perhaps? Meanwhile everybody here should have a copy. ;-)

(Heide)I watched GP on A&E's Biography last night. Wasn't worth the bother True, if your motive for watching was Wessex-spotting. There was only a glimpse of his back. (Bethan) For someone whose name is rarely mentioned, there seemed to be a lot of CF...both with GP and JD...they always seemed to show his scenes. There was an Oscar special with Joel Siegel last night (was this shown nationwide in US or only in NY area?). Many SiL clips and all but one featured Wessex...and I mean featured! Speaking, dancing, threatening, bowing, scraping, etc. (sorry, no singing). It was an ABC presentation so I hope the Oscar broadcast will use the same clips. (Bethan) But I'd check out the acceptance speeches if GP and JD make it to the podium... Absolutely, particularly GP. She thanked him at both GG and SAG awards. It will be my main reason for watching (but I confess, I'm a sucker for these things--I watch every year). Like you, I'll keep my eyes peeled for CF but agree it's a longshot that he'll be there. (Moon) Miramax was honored with the Stash Award: for buying the most films and keeping them stashed away. What does this say for MLSF? (Renate) I wonder if anybody ever tried to find out the reason for this? I brought this up a while ago after reading snippet in Newsweek. Winter responded with a v. funny anecdote about Harvey! It's posted back at 116. Go, SiL! Go, Gwynnie!

Re. Parallel Pictures...it appears to be LA based. Is the Aim something to do with the US stock market? There was a similar news item in the Observer...there seems to be some interest in the survival of Handmade Films. They have a good track record and it was unfortunate (to say the least!) that the parent company went bankrupt. How is "Lock stock and barrel" doing in the US? Not my cup of tea, but it was very successful at the UK box office. I don't know how all this impacts on SLOW and finding a distrib tor. GP is apparently going to play Sylvia Plath in a Miramax backed film of the love affair between Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath, starting with their meeting at Cambridge and covering the ten years until her suicide. Does anyone know who has been cast as Ted Hughes (if at all). Another potential role for CF (add to the Earl of Bothwell, Henry II, and Mark Darcy)!!

Thanks everyone for the warm welcome! Moon, I'm from the center of Israel (near Tel Aviv). SIL got good reviews here but not beyond. Actually it was always compared with Elizabeth which was released a week before. while the critics really disliked Kate Blanshet's acting and the script in Elizabeth they praised the script of SIL and GP - not because of her acting but because of her sweetens and beauty (one critic said she'll probably win the Oscar just because of the beautiful way she faltered her eye lashes...) It's gone very quite here...

(Bethan)... Goes on to say that Handmade Films, previously owned by Paragon Entertainmment which went into receivership, has now been bought (for �1.7million) by Parallel Pictures production company. If Parallel paid 1.7Mil UKP for Handmade and got SLOW they got a bargain....the latter cost 3.-4.Mil UKP to produce!!However,any movement re: this film would be progress.I shall inquire when I call the bank . **** Re; Miramax Stash Awards: It will be two years next month that MLSF was filmed!! *** Go Gwynnie, SIL , Tom Stoppard, and Stephen Warbeck( Soundtrack)!!

(Bethan)GP is apparently going to play Sylvia Plath in a Miramax backed film of the love affair between Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath, Goodie....I like Sylvia Path and the role of Ted would be a natural for CF!! *** (Bethan) Re. Parallel Pictures...it appears to be LA based. Is the Aim something to do with the US stock market? News gets better n' better, Bethan. LA based Parallel sounds promising. Aim is not part of the stock market, but could be an acronym for an organization of "American Independent Market". I dunno...sure it wasn't capitalized?

Good news, I think, about Secret Laughter of Women. Maybe Evelyn will be able to find out more but perhaps the film now has someone to look after its interest. But I won't hold my breath. Grasping at straws I know but I agree w/Bethan and Evelyn that Ted Hughes would be a plum role for Colin. I think the TH got a bad rap and he was rather good looking in his younger days. They surely will give it to someone else though. It has been quiet here this weekend, Adi. I expect we'll have a little more action after the Oscars. After all I've read this weekend, I'll be very surprised if Gwynie doesn't win Best Actress. (..and my greatest thanks go to Colin Firth. I'd never have made it without you!...) (yes, I'm kidding.) Just caught a glimpse of her in the pre-award show. Very Grace Kelly-ish look tonight.

For those of you who want Oscar results as they happen rather than tape delay, check in and boot the real video or real audio at http://www.film.com/reviews/features/awards/98oscars/live/

Colin Firth: Seen in film clips at the Oscars 5 times Mentioned by producer 1 time. Well done Dear Boy!

Well done SIL and well done Rita, Evelyn and anyone else who wrote to HW,thankyou Miramax for mentioning our DB who did so much to promote SIL.

Moon, I tried twice before to e-mail you but always got an error message. Could you e-mail me instead, so I get it right?

Hooray for SiL! Congrats to Gwynnie and Judi (they were very gracious even though CF was not individually mentioned) and the rest of the winners. I was ready to tear my hair out by the end of this marathon 4 hour broadcast but something told me to wait. When best pic was announced, I was astonished--buzz was unanimous for Pvt. Ryan. (Ann) Mentioned by producer 1 time. It was worth the wait (despite Val Kilmer and the horse)! I thought the SiL clips were OK (did you notice the split-second shot of Colin getting his makeup worked on?). The clips I saw on a pre-Oscar show (Saturday) were better, much more Wessex-y. Already today I've seen several clips with Wessex. Goody! I hope this good fortune bodes well for CF and John Madden.

Chris (Luvvy), do we have you to thank for the "Firth on Stage" page? Do tell!!! C'est moi. One day I'll update it with 3DoR.

Great going SIL. I was so glad to see Judi Dench win, and all the rest too. I was afraid she was going to be left out again though. The thanked Colin too, thanks honey. I was really p--- at the Golden Globes when Madden mentioned everyone but him. I was happy to see Speilberg win too. Not as happy as Roberto Felihini though with his two, although I did come out of my chair when J.D was announced and when SIL won for best picture. I was afraid it was going to be SPR.

I�m glad you enjoyed my little London report. (though I can�t remember having anything said here about his clothing , Karen ;-) ) The warm welcome as a (supposed) newbie of some of you shows me that I�ve been in lurkdom for a too long time, but I really have trouble to keep up with you all. One day off and there is such a load of messages that I hardly am able to catch up again. Perhaps I should ask my boss to let me go home earlier the day so that I can spent more time at Spring ;or I sould browse my daily schedule for other unnecessary things I can skip ;-) You see, I'm still refering to may London report "from the old days" and when I logg in again it's all about the Oscars. Back to semi lurkdom.

Was it just me, or did anyone else think Harrison Ford seemed almost comically shocked when he announced SiL as best pic? I believe it was Ford who announced best pic the year Schindler's List won and someone probably was counting on the same sort of symmetry this year, Ford and old pal Spielberg... Heard this bit of gossip on one of this a.m.'s chat shows. Seems at the post-oscar Governor's Ball Harvey W. went up to Spielberg's table. Kate Capshaw (Mrs. Spielberg) was apparently very gracious to him, but when Harvey congratulated Spielberg on his best director win, apparently Spielberg just said "Thanks" and turned away. Ouch!

You're right, Susan, Harrison seemed to stare at the paper before he announced SiL. And I was jumping around the room too, Lucie (BTW, it was Harvey Weinstein, not John Madden who left Colin out at the GG's). but when Harvey congratulated Spielberg on his best director win, apparently Spielberg just said "Thanks" and turned away. I can believe this. As nice as Spielberg seems, he must have been devastated at the loss. I didn't read of a single prediction other than SPR. I stayed up a bit after the show (middle of the night here). While Gwyneth was being interviewed in the press room, a reporter's mobile phone rang just as she asked a question. Gwyneth said "want me to get that?" and answered the phone. She asked "who's this?" and said to the reporter "are you available for Nick?" It was v. funny.

when Harvey congratulated Spielberg on his best director win, apparently Spielberg just said "Thanks" and turned away. Ouch! } There's been a bit of a controversy brewing over how Miramax campaigns for Oscars. They put a lot of money and effort directly into marketing for the awards--more than other studios. I heard one entertainment reporter say that some people feel that this is "cheating". So maybe Spielberg thinks he was cheated out of the Pic Oscar.

Ann - love your DB sightings and mention count at the Oscars. Colin in two out of the last three Best Oscar pictures. Think anyone notices besides us? That show went on so damn long (Whoopi wanted to make sure everyone got her jokes before she'd continue and what was with that stupid cowboy movie tribute?). I was ready to turn the TV off as soon as I heard SPR's name called for Best Picture. What a great surprise to hear Shakespeare... And thank you, Ms. Gigliotti for mentioning DB. It was only fitting. Saw the quick glimpse of Colin in the makeup chair too, Eileen. Do you think they were gluing on that mustache and goatee? ;-) Dreamworks was griping at Miramax because they then felt forced to shell out more millions in their advertisements. Their backing of a WWII monument in DC may sound like taking the high road but the cynic in me says the timing certainly didn't hurt SPR getting votes. I rarely agree with the Academy but this year I'll take it no matter how many votes Harvey "bought". Kirsten, we aren't done with 3DOR yet. And Arami has posted her Donmar story at 115.

I agree that the Oscars were far too long. Too many spots that had nothing to do with the subject. What were John Glenn and Gen. C. Powell supposed to be doing anyhow. And the Val Kilmar part with the horse, stupid. The preshow was so bad I turned the basketball game on until it was over. Emelia Fox is supposed to be at Donmar Warehouse in April.

Ann, I didn't watch the Oscars - Who was it who mentioned ODB? Was it Harvey? Or the makeup woman? I am cofused. Emelia Fox is supposed to be at Donmar Warehouse in April. Opens tonight, with Charles Dance in Good. Real enthusiasts should go to the Donmar. There is a strong chance ODB will turn up to watch.

Heide), Colin in two out of the last three Best Oscar pictures. Think anyone notices besides us? Yes! Colin of course. Wonder what prized picture he has in mind for this year. :-) Allison, the producer Ms. Gigliotti included Colin in her thanks. I hope she will have something to offer him in the future.

Emilia Fox at the Donmar..Opens tonight, with Charles Dance in Good. Real enthusiasts should go to the Donmar. There is a strong chance ODB will turn up to watch. Charles Dance attended 3DOR the night we attended and a Spring guest overheard Colin telling CD that they planned to attend Good. Also Aunt Gardiner should be there. A big P&P event (perhaps)

(Heide) Saw the quick glimpse of Colin in the makeup chair too, Eileen. Do you think they were gluing on that mustache and goatee? ;-) Yep! Dreamworks was griping at Miramax because they then felt forced to shell out more millions in their advertisements. Poor Dreamworks (read that with sarcasm). SPR has made over $200M while SiL hasn't cracked the $100M mark (but is expected to do so since winning best pic Oscar). (Ann) There's been a bit of a controversy brewing over how Miramax campaigns for Oscars. Harvey's been taking heat over here for months, Ann. He chalks it up to big studio resentment of the "little guy" (although just how little Miramax is could be debated, I suppose). I read somewhere that actors loved SiL because of its jokes about Hollywood. Perhaps their votes put SiL ahead of the popular favorite, SPR. I saw both and thought SiL was entertainment whereas SPR was a traumatic experience.

I saw both and thought SiL was entertainment whereas SPR was a traumatic experience. But SPR is a powerful film...and Steven Speilberg a gifted director . IMO it was a tie, and the members of the Academy viewed it as such. Karen and I discussed this at 11;30 PM the night of the Oscars.!! She has an interesting theory and I'll let her tell you.

Evelyn, how about a conspiracy theory for the Oscars? (A warning firth: I have nothing against jews or other ethnic origins) Did anyone notice that the best director award went to a jewish director, the best film to a jewish producer, the best foreign film and best actor to an italian jew?

Gi, Benigni is a catholic. During WW2 as the Germans were abandoning Italy, they arrested and sent to camps all the men they found. They wanted revenge against Italy which had betrayed them and taken sides with the Allied forces. My husband�s in Florence was one and so was Benigni�s father. Benigni grew up listening to his father�s tales. The entertainment industry in Hollywood is a very old established Jewish community.

That should be my husband's uncle in Florence.

Did anyone notice that the best director award went to a jewish director, the best film to a jewish producer, the best foreign film and best actor to an italian jew? } Gee, you mean there are lots of people of Jewish origins in Hollywood? That's not exactly news, but more a historic fact ;-) I agree with the Colin Powell/John Glenn/Horse bits being really really stupid and a waste of time, as was the interpretive dance portion of the evening. I love film montages though. They're one of my favorite parts of the show.

Actually, so many American intelectuals seem to be of jewish origin...I suppose they are just more visibly active :-)

Moon, did Ms Giglotti actually mention Colin by name and how many of the cast did she thank, was it only the credited cast, was Martin Clunes or Tom Wilkinson mentioned, I hope it wasn't too many of the cast otherwise it takes away some of the kudos. BTW I have just read that the UK Government is to invest �150m. in British Film, must be good for the British Film Industry and good for Colin. have you heard anything about this Bethan?

Yes, Ann, she did mention Colin and Rupert specifically, some others too but not the whole cast.

Though only recently.... One of the great economists of the twentieth century, Paul Samuelson, was denied tenure at Harvard because he is jewish. This was no paranoid interpretation - the reasons were clear. It was also in 1948, AFTER the war. His reaction was to set up the department at MIT, which became the pre-eminent department of economics for the next twenty years. Hello all, BTW. Back from relaxing 10-day Californian jaunt. Like, totally awesome, dude.

I've just read that the UK Government is to invest �150m. in British Film, must be good for the British Film Industry (Ann) I hope so , but there's already a stockpile of British films that have no distributor. Unless the distribution problem is tackled and we are guaranteed the opportunity to actually see the films, further investment could be a waste of money. I was listening to a showbiz journalist and he said that he always went to New York to watch British films ( o lucky man!) because American audiences were much more enthusiastic. He added that British films faced two major problems...apathy from distributors, and apath from the great British public! I'd like to see the industry producing a few big budget movies (like Elizabeth or SIL) and really promoting them, rather than producing another 50 "could be the new Full Monty" little films with miniscule advertising budgets. The Oscars...I bet Colin's in-laws were celebrating....victory for SIL and Ro-berrt-o! :-) Welcome back Ben!

I've really enjoyed reading about everyone's night and their encounters with CF. I usually don't post - but, I'm getting rather curious about when Fever Pitch is coming out in the States. Does anyone know when we can expect it? Last I heard it was coming in March - but I haven't heard a thing!

Welcome Kate! Hope you post more often... Fever Pitch is supposedly going to be released on May 28th, I think. The only reason why I remember the date is because it's a week after the release of "Phantom Menace" which everyone and their cousin is planning to see. That's either bad or good scheduling; depending if people had gotten Star Wars out of their systems the week before. I suspect it's going to be released in the smaller theatres (i.e. arthouse). Also, don't be surprised if it's going to be in limited release (NYC, LA, Chicago, etc.). Bad news is that I haven't seen a trailer for it yet. Oh yeah, welcome back Ben! It was great to see you! Today's weather is blue skies, cumulus (or nimbus) clouds, average temp: 68 degrees and getting warmer. Jealous? ;-)

Does anyone know when the Bafta's are to be awarded? I am anxious to see how SIL does.

(Bethan)...( journalist)..He added that British films faced two major problems...apathy from distributors, and apathy from the great British public! True, True....in addition, their movie magazines(Empire, Premiere etc) feature American film stars instead of British stars.Boo Hiss.

Winter - thanks for the information. I will keep my eyes open for it. I'm in San Francisco - I hope it makes it here, if it is only going to be released in major cities (i.e. NY and LA). I can't wait to see how they translated the book to screen. Even though soccer isn't popular here, the universal theme of a man and his undying love for a sports team rings true everywhere.

Hi, I'm new here, but, I've been lurking for months and really enjoyed all your stories. I saw this in today's USA Today's Life section from Jeannie Williams: Oscar-night fetes stole the spotlight, but a remarkable party took place Saturday night, before the Sunday awards. Skits were the highlights of Miramax Film's annual "family party" in L.A. Paltrow stole the show wearing a big nose and shouting, playing Roberto Benigni. The ebullient Benigni wore a long red muffler at the Beverly Wilshire party and was a hit as Romeo in the skits, crying, "I want to kiss your Golden Globes all over!" Colin Firth of SIL was with gorgeous wife Livia Giuggioli, seeing his first "Max Awards," as Harvey Weinstein dubs them. "No bloody way!" Firth said of doing future skits, which involve weird wigs but offer amazing actor juxtapositions. Marianne p.s.: I really enjoyed our Saturday lunch at Remi's ... thank you for making me feel so welcome.

Welcome Marianne, Kate and all the other delurkers! So if Colin was in LA for the Miramax gig on Saturday, is one to assume that he also attended the Oscars?

Wecome Marianne. I guess Livia did want to show off her Armani gown afterall. If Colin attended the Oscars he might have been sitting with Rupert and the rest of the cast which was not seen.

Marianne! Thanks for writing! (Our lunch was a blast, wasn't it?) Thanks for the scoop... "No bloody way!" Firth said of doing future skits What a spoil-sport! You'd think he'd be game to do something fun like that. And here I was thinking he was your everyday sort of bloke.

(Winter:) Oh yeah, welcome back Ben! It was great to see you! Today's weather is blue skies, cumulus (or nimbus) clouds, average temp: 68 degrees and getting warmer. Jealous? ;-) New York - grey, cold, getting greyer, getting colder. Jealous? Perhaps. But I look north out of my office, see the GW bridge and the curve of the Hudson, and remember where I am. Now, if I could get the LA weather, and a selection of LA people (leave Hollywood behind) and move them here... BTW, I feel I must, for the sake of all, nip in the bud ANY affection for Arsenal F.C. All Firthettes must be warned about the dangers of letting affection for the man himself spill over into a liking, however slight, for a football club which one of his characters happened to enjoy. The "Arse" is, justifiably, the most loathed club in the country Boring, overpaid, egotistical and financed by Guardian-reading, smug Islingtonites. (Before I get bombarded with rotten fruit and defences of YDB, there are nice Islington residents, of course - like the Firths, for example.) So...Arsenal boxer shorts and men who sport them...possibly, although Liverpool supporters are smarter, funnier and sexier, as a rule. Arsenal itself? NO.

(Winter) "No bloody way!" Firth said of doing future skits What a spoil-sport! You'd think he'd be game to do something fun like that. And here I was thinking he was your everyday sort of bloke. Agree, this doesn't seem like the CF we "know." Hmm...I wonder if he's been quoted out of context again. Perhaps that retort came in response to this question: "Colin, will you be back in the future to do a skit based on Harvey Weinstein's acceptance speeches?"

Whoops, almost forgot--welcome, Marianne and thanks for the info. It only takes a gentle nudge to get us started...

Sorry. Me too. It was lovely to meet you on Saturday, Marianne. Wasn't lunch fun? (Just for my own interest, BTW, next time you go there you should try and work out their rotation of waiters. I lost track of how many we had, but I'm pretty sure it was at least four.)

Ah, so he was in LA! Thanks, Marianne....puts an end to our "was he/wasn't he" debate. I wonder if he asked Roberto for his autograph (for Livia's mum)! "No bloody way!" Firth said of doing future skits, which involve weird wigs but offer amazing actor juxtapositions. As I read this, the skits required the actors to play each other, Gwynnie played Roberto, Roberto played Romeo, and Colin had to wear a wig...perhaps he had to play Gwynnie...hence the "no bloody way!" :-)

Welcome and thanks Mary Ann. We love newbies esp. when they bring us good new of ODB. Well Ben....I've been to http://www.arsenal.co.uk and made my Christmas list already.There's a neat Arsenal wallpaper, with accompanying curtains and pillowcases. Also an Arsenal lamp.A woman's dress...to get ODB attention next time we see him. In addition some red/white scrunchies (I thought that was a beverage they drink in Cornwall!!). Better go soon girls...they' seeling fast.re

(Ben) Boring, overpaid, egotistical That describes most American professional sports teams, so Arsenal fits right in! ;-) When you originally called them the most hated team in England, it made me think that they must be dirty players, which evokes images of players on such teams here as the Detroit Pistons, NY Knicks, etc. (I will leave Dennis Rodman out of it because he's a league of his own--hee hee.) You mean you only hate them because of how much money they make? If you pay them and they deliver the championships, then they are not overpaid. Didn't they win the Double last year? I rest my case. Winter, dear, think I'll send you a little bit of memorabilia in the mail to dangle wherever you'd like.... ;-)

(Ben) BTW, I feel I must, for the sake of all, nip in the bud ANY affection for Arsenal F.C Don't worry... I was never in the process of developing any sort of following. It's hard enough trying to find, at most, one football match on TV over the course of a week. Better not to get myself involved. Though I'm still baffled by your vehement dislike over Arsenal. Don't know if there are any parallels, but I really can't stand the Los Angeles Lakers. They've been, over the past few years, boring, overpaid and egotistical. I prefer calling them the "Hollywood Lakers" myself. New York - grey, cold, getting greyer, getting colder. Jealous? Actually, yes. A bit. Since the weather's been getting warmer, the sky has been getting browner. No good for runners. Winter, dear, think I'll send you a little bit of memorabilia in the mail to dangle wherever you'd like.. Thanks for the offer Karen, but I think I'll remain neutral in this debate. If anything, I'd invert its symbolic meaning and think of it as more NH memorabilia than Arse F.C..

(Winter) Though I'm still baffled by your vehement dislike over Arsenal. I'm not TOO serious. I just want you all to support the right team.:-) Having grown up in London, a fair few of my friends were Arsenal supporters, so it was a natural team to hate. (Perversity of this sort is prevalent amongst football supporters.) Arsenal were disliked for many years for a better reason - they traditionally play very dull, if effective, football. Their local, but less successful rivals, Spurs, always played beautiful football but lost more often. Perhaps it's like the Lakers, I don't know. Perhaps it's also like watching Tom Hanks win Oscars instead of YDB (BTW, Winter, are you not impressed with my newly exhibited control of .... italics ? I certainly am . There...now I'll do it again !!! Eat your hearts out, Firthette geeks!)

And one day you will forget that bloody end tag, too... ;-)

(Ben)BTW, Winter, are you not impressed with my newly exhibited control of .... italics ? I certainly am . There...now I'll do it again !!! Yes, Ben, quite impressive. Now let's see you do more! ;-)

(Provoked by Mr. Broadbent, Winter has only managed to embarrass herself and close her own bloody end tags...damn it.)

I'm going to take everyone's toys away! ;-)

much better

test test

Ben, did you know that my team F.C. Milan wanted to buy your Owen from Liverpool at the beginning of the season? Poor chap wanted to stay home instead and declined. My 7 year old has his national selection team shirt. :-) Winter you are officially on full Firth alert. Off to Santa Monica with you!

Winter you are officially on full Firth alert. Off to Santa Monica with you! Will do! Over and out! I've got two weeks of Spring Break, so I'll have plenty of opportunities to go down there and hang out in SM. Perhaps even rent some rollerblades and skate all the way up to... let's say...Malibu?! ;-)

Perhaps one of you can work up a utility such as spellcheck but this one will alert for missing HTML thingies. Actually, the one they do have is excellent and will not let me post anything with just an open ended html-less message. It keeps kicking it back to me with all sorts of suggestions. I finally find it and make it alright. But now, here on this writing space above the submit response button, I am writing in Italics, and I have tried my best to rid of them. We have a problem.

This is strange...The last messages have come up fine (unitalicized). It's only AFTER you post your own message that everything screws up again. I swear I closed those end tags.

MLSF is to open on the 11th June, according to Cinematters Website, great to get a definite date, hope it opens soon after in the UK. (2 films within 2 weeks can't be bad FP & MLSF)

How I envy you! Two CF films in a row, and I probably won't see either!

Thanks Ann, that is very good news. I hope they stick to the date this time. :-)

Were there any pictures of the Harvey Weinstein party. Judi Dench was there , she said he more or less makes you sing for your supper abd when that ws over she went to bed to get some sleep.

(Ben)BTW, I feel I must, for the sake of all, nip in the bud ANY affection for Arsenal F.C. All Firthettes must be warned about the dangers of letting affection for the man himself spill over into a liking, however slight, for a football club which one of his characters happened to enjoy. Now, Ben, I actually LIKE the team, but I do happen to adore Dennis Bergkamp (who plays for the Dutch national team when not in Highbury). How can one NOT like Nicolas Anelka, Ray Parlor, Michael Seaman(possibly the best goaltender going!) And Arsene Wenger is a great coach! (Ben)So...Arsenal boxer shorts and men who sport them...possibly, although Liverpool supporters are smarter, funnier and sexier, as a rule. Arsenal itself? NO. Ah Ben, I beg to differ. Liverpudlians may be sexy and smart (are you basing this on John Lennon and Paul McCartney? it's a joke, of course!), but Islingtonians are more human.

Blimey! I bow to your knowledge, Laura. I will admit that the current vintage of the Arse has some v. talented players, and that Bergkamp, in particular, is a footballing genius. The man is a joy to watch. The defence is also sound and the French midfield v. impressive. Their heritage is hard to overcome, however. And Nick Hornby's account covered some pretty awful Arsenal teams, a time when there happened to be some Liverpool teams that may have been the best ever to have graced a sward. I was also careful to include all Liverpool supporters, not just Liverpudlians, though John and Paul did seem to attract a fair number of hormone-soaked young gels. No, there are plenty of non-scouse Reds fans like, oh, just to pick one at random, me! As for human Islingtonians, I will simply agree to disagree.

As for human Islingtonians, I will simply agree to disagree. ] Okay, I'll concede on that one, but only that! HA! Never underestimate the knowledge of an strong Irish woman! :)

Hi all ... thanks for the welcome ... now it's back to work for me.

As for human Islingtonians, I will simply agree to disagree. Watch it, watch it! There's at least one (new) Islingtonian who is not only human, but also super.

Poor Charles Dance...got poor reviews for "Good" currently at the Donmar. The Telegraph...Charles Dance, however, an actor who often gives the impression that he thinks a handsome profile can make amends for a dull performance, is merely blandly unlikeable....as the girlfried, Emilia Fox's failure to recognise encroaching evil is more persuasive than Dance's. Nevertheless, this remains a deeply disappointing revival that leaves a once highly regarded play looking cruelly exposed. Bet there are lots of seats available for thisone.

Hey, Marianne! You'd better stay, now that you've been "outed!" ;-P

I thought CD and EF made a terrible couple in Rebecca. I never found him handsome enough to .... Of course, those reviews just make ODB's star shine brighter. ;-)

Of course, those reviews just make ODB's star shine brighter. ;-) My thoughts exactly, Moon.

A SECOND CHANCE TO SEE 3DOR AT THE DONMAR?!! Get packing Eileen, Winter, Moon, Rita, Jana and anyone else who did not see it the first time. I also feel another trip to London coming on, even though I have seen it twice!!! From today's BAZ BAMIGBOYE Column in the The Daily Mail:- "WATCH OUT FOR..... Colin Firth who stars in a film called Donovan Quick which BBC Scotland is filming on location near Glasgow. Mr. Firth was in Los Angeles with his wife, Livia Guiggioli, but is returning to play a transport firm boss involved in deregulation and privatisation. "My character defends the little man against the big corporation, but there are complications" Firth told me. He was recently on stage at the Donmar Warehouse in Covent Garden in Three Days of Rain, by American playwright Richard Greenberg. Firth and fellow actors E.McG and DM gave mouthwatering performances. PLANS ARE AFOOT TO BRING THEM BACK IN THE PLAY AT THE DONMAR AT THE END OF YEAR." (Don't mean to shout just don't know how to emphasize it any other way.) Great news and we also now know that DQ is definitely for the BBC.

AnnW: Fabulous news!!! Now if somebody (BBC or...) would only film and broadcast it...

Oh god! London, I�m COMING!!! Thanks Ann, what a treasure you are to bring these news.

I'm THERE, baby! Jana!!! Moon!!! What say you, sisters? You can tell your sig. others that you have a friend in need of chaperoning to London ;-) I was all over L.A. these past 2 weeks... where have the Firths been hanging out, I wonder.

Ann, thanks for the news! Maybe if I start thinking about it now, I can come up with a plausible London business trip excuse by the end of the year;-) Ladies who have seen 3DOR, I am curious: if it is indeed restaged at year-end, and you had your 'druthers, what other actress would you rather see cast as Nan/Lina? (I recall there was some disappointment with EMcG's performance -- who do you think might have done it better?)

Susan, that's an interesting question. I have a suspicion - and please shoot me down, ladies - that v. few are worthy of standing next to The Firth. Even when I suggested, with a "num" question (expecting the answer yes), that JE would have done okay, there was a polite but clear silence on the matter. Aphrodite herself would have trouble getting past any director from Drool, I fancy. "Nice cheekbones, maybe, but there's something wholly unsuitable about her in that bed scene with Colin." ;-)

Thanks, Ann, for reporting this surprising news! Shout all you want! (SusanMC) Maybe if I start thinking about it now, I can come up with a plausible London business trip excuse by the end of the year;-) Maybe if we all put our heads together, we can create a standardized list of excuses.

Of course, those reviews just make ODB's star shine brighter. ;-) I was holding my breath for him...if you'd seen Rufus Sewell's reviews (audience falling asleep etc) you'd have realised how bad reviews can be. To be called "superb" "amazing" "world class" is no mean feat, especially when (I suspect) many reviewers would have been pleased to see Mr Darcy take a tumble! "Movie stars" tend to fare badly at the pens of theatre critics. And he's playing it again! He must have enjoyed his return to the stage (and his reception afterwards) :-) Marvellous news Ann!! The Daily Mail finally delivers... And it even gives me time to convert my DH to the joys of the theatre or to arrange a covert trip to a matinee (the latter is easier, I think!) 3DOR deserved a longer run....and this gives the cast and production the chance of nominations for Olivier awards (equivalent of Tonys). Ben, I would LOVE to see CF and JE on stage together, but I can't see EMcG stepping down! How about "Pygmalion"? CF as Professor Higgins, and JE as Eliza? "The rine in spine.." CF's fixture list is surely filling up...two movies opening end of May, early June in the US, what sound like a very imminent start on Donovan Quick, and (see Karen's posting at #80) with Working Title's BJD greenlighted, hopefully he'll give us a reprise of Mr Darcy (milennium version) in the summer. Oh frabjous day!

Susan, I agree with Ben I think JE could play Nan/Lina, she is after all half American and I think she could do the accent as well if not better than E.McG and she is about the right age, give or take a year or two and plus I would love to see them doing something together again!

Was that just a shot in the dark about Pygmalion, Bethan or had you heard the same rumour that I have heard that Cameron Mackintosh? is to produce MY Fair Lady in the millenium and it was mentioned that CF was one of the actors under consideration. It was about a year ago I heard this and I think again in the BB Column in the Daily Mail, but can he sing!!

Susan, I agree with Ben I think JE could play Nan/Lina, she is after all half American and I think she could do the accent as well if not better than E.McG and she is about the right age, give or take a year or two and plus I would love to see them doing something together again!

JE could definitely to the second act Lina very well and would do far better than EmcG on the accents overall, but she is a tad young. Nan (Act one) is the OLDER sister of Walker, who is in his mid-30s. Do you really think she's old enough. Think American actresses with the ability to do a Maggie the Cat, age 35 and up.

Ann, "Pygmalion" was a shot in the dark. As for "My Fair Lady", well, Rex Harrison didn't exactly sing...he talked to the music, and very effective it was! But didn't CF sing in SIL...I've only seen it once, so my memory is becoming hazy!

CF sang indeed in SiL... Five years ago I saw a version of My Fair Lady in a Broadway theatre, with Richard Chamberlain as Higgins. Was terribly disappointed in that it was, IMO, richard C playing Rex Harrison playing Higgins... Would love to see what Colin could do to the part. "Oh, wouldn't it be marvelous?!"

Check the keepsakes for SiL. SBRobinson would leap to his defense as a singer, as her keepsake is his little song sung from horseback on a Sunday morning riding out to meet Viola just as she was going to church.

Ben, I think JE and CF would work wonderfully together in just about anything. Unfortunately, I think the chances of that happening again are pretty slim. There aren't many cases I can recall of former flames who've worked together again -- Burton and Taylor, perhaps? Can anyone think of others? On the other hand, I hear the cast of Clint Eastwood's new film includes his ex-girlfriend Frances Fisher, so maybe there's hope after all;-)

Ben, I don't remember your mentioning JE to play Nan/Lina...I certainly would have responded. However, she is supposed to be the older of the two and I would LOVE to see CF and JE on stage together, but I can't see EMcG stepping down! I don't think she would let go for a minute. ****** As far as JE and CF being co-starred... their relationship ended amicably. They admire each other's acting skills ...I don't think it would matter to either one.

their relationship ended amicably Officially - maybe. What do we *really* know?

Ann: Thank you for the news. Maybe I can come. It is not like I don't need a distraction. What a beautiful distraction CF on stage.

Oh my, CF may be back at the Donmar? How am I to convinve the DH that I must go to London? I'll have to start working on excuses now :-). I'm sorry to be so tardy in my post (have been enduring work overload this week - I know, I always say that) but I just want to say thanks to the lunch gang from last weekend. What a great day! I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. Marianne, you cute thing. So glad you delurked! See, we're not that scary :-). Please come out and play more often. winter, it just gets better each time we meet. And Ben.... Back from relaxing 10-day Californian jaunt. Like, totally awesome, dude. so glad to see we've converted you :-). It was great to meet you! Next time you're in town we'll try the roller coaster.

(SusanMC)There aren't many cases I can recall of former flames who've worked together again -- Burton and Taylor, perhaps? Can anyone think of others? Woody Allen and Diane Keaton.

What news! Thanks Ann, in fact, I will be in Rome as of Dec. 18, it is certainly something to start planning for. :-) Does anyone know how long Don Q will will be in production. Must coordinate my Umbrian summer soon. Ben, I am all for JE as well, as we know, she looks great with dark hair.;-) CF as Higgins? Hmm...

Great news Ann. We can all start planning soon. It is certainly something to keep us going!!

I have just been in touch with the Donmar, they were very helpul, making another call on my behalf, and gave me the following information. The revival has not yet been confirmed, if it is the venue is UNLIKELY to be the Donmar. The casting would depend on availability, if original cast were to be available, then it was agreed they would be likely choices due to success of 3DOR reviews etc He said to keep in touch re latest news and I am happy to volunteer to do that on a regular basis. So it is fingers (and everything else) crossed.

Sorry to put a "damper" on the Saturday morning that some of you are just waking up to.

Lizza, thanks VERY much for calling to the Donmar, I was only just about beginning to pluck up my courage to do that. And I�m very grateful if you can keep in touch with them to get any possible news...so, the revival is not yet confirmed which means that everything is possible!?

Thank you Lizza....I likethe Donmar ...v. intimate. Some of us asked him to come back to the stage soon....but I didn'tmean the same play. Just as soon it was a different one. ******* their relationship ended amicably .Officially - maybe. What do we *really* know? Well, Firthsister....we can only take Colin and Jennifer at their word.They are both sincere people and I doubt they would lie. In an interview just last month she remarked about him.."He is a v. nice man and a terrific actor". Anyway....that was four or five years ago.It's all conjecture...I doubt they will co-star again.

If you ask me, it's good news it's not at the Donmar - at least as far as the success of the piece is concerned. It means, surely, they're considering a West End venue, or perhaps the Royal Court. (Jana2) Next time you're in town we'll try the roller coaster. Good plan. Winter - perhaps you could go so far as to wear high heels, or is that too vertiginous? ;-) Some excuses for Jana's DH: "helping W. overcome fear of heights by making her fly to London with me" "have heard about these things 'cloud' and 'rain', and thought I'd check them out for myself" "they've discovered oil below Covent Garden"

(Ben)Good plan. Winter - perhaps you could go so far as to wear high heels, or is that too vertiginous? ;-) Alright smart boy...you just watch yourself. Next time: You. Me. Santa Monica Pier Roller coaster. Endurance test. Got it?! Seriously, Jana2 (and anyone else with DH obstacles): Can't you say you're going to London with a group of harmless women, doing a special tour on London's theatre district? I see nothing absurd about that. People go on tours just to watch the leaves fall in New England (heck, I'd take that tour).

Winter - perhaps you could go so far as to wear high heels, or is that too vertiginous? Spring for the dictionary...for a minute I thought William Buckley had logged on:-))

Donovan Quick which BBC Scotland is filming on location (Ann) Aha...so it's BBC Scotland. The director of DonQ (name escapes me) was responsible for an absoluely marvellous BBC Scotland production "Taking over the Asylum" which won a BAFTA Best Drama award. Very warm and humane, based on what sounded like unpromising material (the patients in a mental hospital fight back after the "asylum" is threatened with closure.) A good omen. Moon, I reckon he'll be stating filming now...there are only a few "good" months for filming, April through August, and I'm sure they'll want some shots of the beautiful Scottish scenery!. He's back in MLSF territory, if he's near Glasgow. I doubt they will co-star again (Evelyn) I don't know...I always think there's a chance. They share the same agent, and I'm sure that both want to balance stage and film work. Wasn't JE's last stage role about three years ago (Queen Anne in Richard III)...she may be thinking of a return soon. (BTW, JE has another movie opening next week .."Bedrooms and Hallways") Re 3DOR not at the Donmar...I agree with Ben. Most successful productions which start at the Donmar and then extend, transfer to another (larger capacity) theatre in the West End. I doubt whether you'll be able to read the price labels on CF's shoes or see his bald spot! I should also think that CF (and possibly the other cast members) have ongoing work commitments, because most transfers seem to take place two or three weeks after the end of the opening run. Not many shows transfer...there has to be a r cognised demand.

Re: CF and JE ...They share the same agent Same firm at Oxford House: ICM. Different agents.Jennifer's is Sally Long-Innis. Jennifer's last stage appearance was at Stratford June-Nov. 1995 with the RSC. She was rumored for "Cat on Hot Tin..." with Peter Hall. But he has relocated to Hollywood. Now that would be a play for both of them....Tennesee Williams... Talk about smoldering. A real sizzler!!

Such good news you always bring us, Ann! Both 3DOR and DQ. Thanks also Lizza, for volunteering to be our Donmar go-between (even if it doesn't ultimately land at the Donmar.) Can't imagine there will be a dearth of Firth this year. (Evelyn) Some of us asked him to come back to the stage soon....but I didn't mean the same play. LOL!! I wouldn't mind seeing him do something different either but at least those who couldn't go last time have a second chance. And if I begin my electroshock therapy now perhaps I'll be able to handle the excitement this time. So get your excuses ready, girls. You have to go to London to find that special Christmas gift for your DH not available anywhere in the world....perhaps that Arsenal wallpaper? Welcome, Marianne. You've joined us during a very active time. Our DB can certainly generate some heat, can he not.

(Heide)....perhaps that Arsenal wallpaper? I'm losing the battle, clearly. NOT the Arsenal wallpaper. I am convinced that you could be on the brink of success with YDB, all of you. You would make him laugh and your intentions regarding him clear. But, just at the last minute, with him leaning over to turn down the light, you draining the last of the champagne, he sees the Arse wallpaper in your bag and THAT, my dear friends, would be it. FORGET IT.

I doubt whether you'll be able to read the price labels on CF's shoes or see his bald spot! The price labels... by the end of the second week, by the way, there was only one left still attached... yes, on the left sole! But as for his bald spot... the sad truth is, it's more than just a spot - the whole top of his head shows signs of extensive thinning now... (but never mind, he's still lovely...)

it's more than just a spot - the whole top of his head shows signs of extensive thinning now... (but never mind, he's still lovely...) Speaking of which, doesn't it look like he had a full head of thick matted hair in SiL. Was it the magic of makeup artists?

(Evelyn)...but I didn't mean the same play. Just as soon it was a different one. Not Fair...Just as the critics are raving "You must see this play!!", it is 1) sold out and then 2) gone. Don't be a dog-in-the-manger about it now...give the rest of the world a chance to see it now that they know WHAT and WHO to pursue! --If it ever comes up that CF and JE would be offered to work together again-- amicable parting or not--these two are consummate professionals and IMHO wouldn't refuse on those grounds if the material was good enough!

His hair, my dear, his hair.....oh, you spoilsport, Arami! (Not that I really care...thinning hair can be a sign of distinction!) Now I wasn't there and haven't gazed exclusively on his pate, but I do have a theory. My son has similar curly rather fine hair, which he has recently cut short and (horror of horrors!) insists on smothering with gel (the "wet look"). Awful. When short and "wet", you really can see his scalp, but when newly washed and longer,it looks as though he's got a good head of hair...which indeed he has! Just a theory. :-)

as for his bald spot... the sad truth is, it's more than just a spot It really is true. I was a bit surprised when he did that water bit in 3DOR and the situation of his hair became so visible especially under the strong theater lights. I expect his hair to get considerably thinner on the top of his head in the next few years, that�s inevitable. I wonder what he�s thinking and feeling about it himself, after all it�s a pretty big change to one�s looks and looks is his instrument. A change like that will affect his roles too....but I don�t think I�d lose interest if he lost his hair, there are other beautiful things in him that he�ll never lose.

I would have loved the Donmar because you are so close to him, as you ladies experienced. I would prefer a play where he speaks without an American accent, but that is besides the point. The play was most successful and it will be 3DOR at the bigger venue. I love your idea Heide, of shopping for the Xmas gift in London, perhaps an ancient manuscript on Alchemy, and that wonderful Darjeling tea at the Bluebird. Funny thing is, that all our very good friends from London will be coming to Italy for the holidays. I remember driving through Scotland one summer. Did not care for Glascow, but Loch Lomond which is nearby was very lovely. I wonder where exactly he will be filming? Lizza, I will be waiting to hear the dates, thanks!

I like your theory, Bethan....but trust me...I sat in the first row of the balcony for two hours...It's thinning...like they say...not just in one spot.Big Time.And he doesn't use it curly in 3 DOR or gelled! There are several new medications now that are v. successful,however. Never mind...we'll love him just the same:-) Some say they noticed it in P&P..but I never saw it.

Yes Evelyn-I noticed it in P&P. It was their meetin at Pemberly after he was properly dressed. It was when he turned & said "would you introduce me to your friends?" I thought it was because his hair was supposedly wet from swimming. Unhappily,my eyesight hadn't fooled me.

There are several new medications now that are v. successful,however. And hasn't Gi volunteered her services? No, not those services - the hair replacement treatments. I accept your theory, Bethan, and will not change my mind until I see him again and it's even more noticeable. Though I'll love him still the same. Elena, your points are well taken. Could this be why he doesn't seem himself as a romantic figure in future roles? Nah!

...and that is see himself as a romantic figure.

(Ben) Some excuses for Jana's DH: "they've discovered oil below Covent Garden" LMAO! That one might actually work. I'm tucking it away for future reference :-).

Where is Lizza these days? Lizza: check your email box NOW! I believe you may have something you want to share with the world at large...

Arami, I believe Lizza is away for a few days, oh no this is so intriguing, I'm sorry I'm just naturally curious.

Where is Lizza these days? Lizza: check your email box NOW! I believe you may have something you want to share with the world at large...

Oops, damn program - it reposts automatically when you go off and then on line again. Have you found out how to avoid it? Just remember to leave the board on which your post is the last one. Silly, and one can't always be bothered.

Arami, you did that deliberately!!:-)) And now I�m about to explode with curiosity. What does Lizza has to say to the world?? Do we have to wait for a few days to hear it?!

Calm down - it's just her pics in a tasteful frame, ready to be viewed. Suppose it's best to let her see firth if she likes the way the've been processed.

3DOR movie? At the IMDB they are listing a film called "Three Days of Rain" as in preproduction. Is this based on the play? (Apparently the wife of the mayor of St. Paul MN is signed to act in it (as her debut), that's where I heard about it.)

What's the mayor's wife's name? There are three women listed in the cast at the IMDB. I had read that the film rights were purchased a while back. Could be one and the same and they would likely have different actors playing the parent and child roles, as well as the unseen but mentioned characters and perhaps others.

Okay, I bow to your superior judgements...his hair is thinning! My suspicions dated back to the time when Helen Fielding endowed Mark Darcy with a developing bald "spot" (Bridget notices it as MD bends over by the fridge)...and I thought "hello, life imitates art, I bet Colin's got one too!" BTW, ladies, were you paying much attention to the actual play?

Actually no--the first night that is. Instead I was thinking about all the things I read about him plus the movies I had seen him in. I think I was in a total daze. I also remember when the play began and he walked on stage, I got excited and said, "Oh, my God." The lady sitting next to me from cf.com just turned around and smiled. However, the second night I concentrated more on the play. Here's another question for the ladies who were in attendance. Did CF live up to your expectations and why?

BTW, ladies, were you paying much attention to the actual play? LOL! What play? Bethan, a very good question and I believe you know the answer too. I really seriously think I should see the play again because all I remember is that there was this gorgeous guy and I remember every single detail of him especially when he was laying on that bed :-D but what the hell happened in the play?! (Just kidding. Or at least almost.)

(Jana C.)Here's another question for the ladies who were in attendance. Did CF live up to your expectations and why? Beyond my expectations is more like it. I was completely blown away by his stage technique...so different, IMO from his films. Of course, for once he selected a perfect role for his acting skills. He totally embodied himself in Walker/Ned. Anybody else feel this way?

I remember driving through Scotland one summer. Did not care for Glascow, but Loch Lomond which is nearby was very lovely. I wonder where exactly he will be filming? (Moon) Glasgow is very strong culturally (music, drama, art etc) and has some marvellous civic buildings, but the immediate environs are rather grim. However once you're out of the city, the scenery is stunning. I should imagine they could be filming near Loch Lomond/Queen Elizabeth Forest....your guess is as good as mine! I wonder if Livia is with him on location....is it usual for spouses/partners to join the shoot? Could be rather boring. I don't know about anyone else, but I've grown so accustomed to almost daily accounts of new meetings/conversations with the Man Himself, that I'm half expecting (hoping) to read "My meeting with CF in Auchenbothie" or "A casual encounter with Mr Darcy in the Kilpatrick Hills" Isn't there anyone north of the border who can carry out a sortie?

Seriously, 3DOR proved me that Colin really is a professional. You can�t be certain of that before you see an actor on stage, it�s so easy to hide things in a movie and do a million retakes. I was a bit worried beforehand but now I know what he�s capable of and admire him much more than I did before. Still I think he was slightly self-conscious on stage and didn�t sort of throw himself into the roles. I sensed some sort of nervousness and I�m not talking about Walker�s or Ned�s nervousness but the actor�s. He seemed to hold something back especially in the matinee performance, that�s my opinion. How I�d LOVE to hear his own thoughts about the play, how he felt doing it, did he think it succeeded, was it what he wanted it to be, why he chose to be in exactly that play....should we send him a NEW list of questions?!

Jana, he far exceeded my expectations, he was much younger and good looking in real life (if that is possible), in SIL I thought he looked a bit jowly and fatter in the face and much older than he looked in 3DOR, he was more charming, friendly (after the recent bad press about his internet fans), obliging, sexier, thinner, his acting was even more awesome on stage than on scene (am sorry he won't be at the Donmar next time, it was wonderful to be so close to this awesome creature!), taller than I had expe ted, those eyes were even more impressive and that voice need I say more, the only thing I missed was seeing him astride a horse but you can't have everything, sorry about the grammar. Is that enough, I could go on.

Thats's strange Elena, because I thought his performance in the Matinee had an "edge" and he seemed a little tired in the evening but it was still a wonderful performance.

what I meant to say was the his Matinee performance was a little sharper.

Thats's strange Elena, because I thought his performance in the Matinee had an "edge" and he seemed a little tired in the evening but it was still a wonderful performance.

Okay, maybe I was the nervous one! And I really was, or completely dazed like Jana says.....but I liked the evening performance more because he seemed to be more relaxed in it and sort of completely in control of what he was doing. All in all, it�s very hard to say objectively whether the performance of the actor was wonderful or not because the man HIMSELF is so wonderful and it�s not exactly the same thing!!

One has to be a disinterested viewer to be objective about performances...no posibility of that in THIS group! BTW I would be interested in how this play and Colin got together. Did he see or read it, get interested and make "suggestions"? Was it already planned and someone saw how he might match the part and submit it to him for his approval?? (if available, of course.) Was someone at the Donmar keeping an eye out for his interests ("wants to do a little live theatre again...")? Is it all just luck (two ships colliding in the night??) After all, it was first produced two years ago in California... It was almost as if these two roles were written *specifically* for his skills! Serendipity, anyone?

(Karen J)Was it already planned and someone saw how he might match the part and submit it to him for his approval?? Sue Birtwistle ?? :-) Interesting questions.Maybe we could make up another list of questions re: 3 DOR.

What has hair to do with talent? Isn't that why we love to see him. Look at Sean Connery, being bald certainly hasn't hurt him. He's just as sexy as ever too. I think he's even better bald. Michael Jordon wouldn't be as sexy with hair as he is bald. IMHO

I would really love to see Colin play vidal in Georgette Heyer's The Devils Cub.

Just about every SIL scene shown at the Oscars included Colin Firth. His scenes were clearly some of the more interesting ones. There was the Dance, , the sword fight, the kiss and slap, the scenes with the Queen, all of which were action packed. Therefore, I find it so unbelievable and so distressing that he didn't get more recognition and acclaim for his role in the film. Well, at least Gwyneth mentioned him at the Golden Globes and Gigliotti at the Oscars.

So glad you mentioned Dancing, Susan. Look what I found:

Great pic, Karen! Where'd you find that one? Just a few words about his hair: it's more than just a spot - the whole top of his head shows signs of extensive thinning now... (but never mind, he's still lovely...) (KarenR) Speaking of which, doesn't it look like he had a full head of thick matted hair in SiL. Was it the magic of makeup artists? I noticed that too. Either said thinning has accelerated since Mar/April '98 when SiL was filmed or he wore fake hair to go with the fake goatee. (Lucie) What has hair to do with talent? Isn't that why we love to see him. Good point but as Elena said, in acting looks and talent are part of the same instrument. Sorry, but I like his hair and will miss it even though I'll always admire ODB. Thanks for keeping up with the fate of 3DOR, Lizza. If everything works out and Colin does reprise it, I think the possibility of an Olivier nom would be icing on the cake for him. Remember, he won't do long runs. How long does a play need to run to be considered? I agree, Heide, there'll be no dearth of Firth this year. I have this inexplicable feeling that his best is yet to come...

I've just seen an article in today's Guadian which may shed some light on why SLOW hasn't got a distributor in the US (which has a knock on effect on the UK, because we no longer have any European distributors). BTW, I'm only the messenger, so if the views expressed are controversial, write to The Guardian!! :-) Apparently the (black) actor who plays Dr Benson in ER has asked for his screen relationship with the (white/English) Dr Corday to be ended, because it is not conveying the right message. He feels that black men should be depicted in successful relationships with black women, and the producers have agreed. The article continues... "This decision highlights the squeamishness with which American film and TV have always dealt with mixed-race relationships. For the most part they avoid them altogether, or when they do happen they are mainly between white men and black women (Kevin Costner/Whitney Houston, Warren Beatty/Halle Berry...which is"far less threatening to the white men who fund the film industry"... or (very occasionally) black men and foreign white women (ER). The article goes on to comment that in the UK, mixed race relationships are so commonplace in soaps and films, that they don't even register as such. Relationships are also shown in various degrees of intimacy ( which again I do not think is the case in the US). (I can remember CF and Cathy Tyson (or rather, their characters!) kissing with some enthusiasm in "Out of the Blue" and Cathy Tyson is very beautiful , and black.) I also remember a marvellous French movie (which sounds similar to SLOW), starring Daniel Auteuil as an unsuccessful French business man who falls in love with his Cameroonian cleaning lady and marries her (to disapproval from both sides of the community) anf finds true happiness. It did very well in Europe, but not elsewhere. Anyway, as I said I'm only the messenger.....:-)

AHA!! I have been suspecting as much for a long time...

The article goes on to comment that in the UK, mixed race relationships are so commonplace in soaps and films, that they don't even register as such. Relationships are also shown in various degrees of intimacy (which again I do not think is the case in the US). Hmm...interesting...No, you don't have as many interracial couples portrayed in US media as you do in the UK. For a lot of reasons...The main one being the racial politics and history in US race relations. Britian had a fairly more lax treatment of ethnic minorities-- discrimination was more class based than racial, I think. Of course they'd have instances of hate-crime, etc...but not to the degree of systematic lynchings or institutionalized segregation in public places. (As for the Dr. Benton/Dr. Corday relationship-- it was a poorly developed story in the first place. I'm rather glad to see it possibly end. Perhaps ER can hire an English actor to join the cast as an old flame of Dr. Corday's...ODB perhaps? CF in medical scrubs...think about it.)

(Bethan) Apparently the (black) actor who plays Dr Benson in ER has asked for his screen relationship with the (white/English) Dr Corday to be ended, because it is not conveying the right message. He feels that black men should be depicted in successful relationships with black women, and the producers have agreed. There is something v. sad about this, I think. Is this what Martin Luther King or Bobby Kennedy would have wanted?

(Ben)There is something v. sad about this, I think. Is this what Martin Luther King or Bobby Kennedy would have wanted? No, they wouldn't. But at the same time, they might not have approved of a Black man as a single father, unable to hold down a relationship with the mother of his child, which happens on the show. Furthermore, the relationships between black actors on the show have resulted in infidelities, transfernce of HIV from husband to wife, and this season's storyline about the African couple (the wife is afraid of being physically absued by her husband). I don't really care how this character's love life develops but I think I see where the actor (La Salle) is coming from. He sees an urgency to ammend existing stereotypes of black/black couples, before jumping into the black/white issue.

There was an article in LA Time earlier this month. I've extracted a bit of it below. The writer is Sir Peter Hall who has gone to LA to produce a couple of Shakespeare's plays this summer (previews from 6 June if you are interested). His comments on trying to cast the plays are revealing (in light of discussions herein about CF's projects and schedule): " I made contact with a wonderful group of American actors--some of them old friends, some of them new: Ed Harris, Kevin Kline, John Lithgow, Christopher Plummer, Dustin Hoffman, David Dukes, Nathan Lane, Helen Hunt, Kelly McGillis, Gwyneth Paltrow, Minnie Driver and many more. (Note to their agents: The billing is haphazard.) They were all keen to work on Shakespeare; they were all indeed keen to get back to the stage. But most of them couldn't do it. They had to wait--wait until their movie was "green-lighted" or their TV pilot was elevated into a series. In L.A., it seems, actors wait--not because they are resting but because they are hoping. The place has probably the biggest pool of talented actors in the world, but they are there not to act but to wait--in case the TV or the movie calls. Theater cannot figure in their calculations except (briefly) on the way up, or perhaps even more briefly on the way down. Some of the actors asked politely toward the end of the meeting if I hadn't been told that they were not free. "Then why on earth did you come?" I would ask. "I thought it would be interesting to meet you," was the reply. Flattering, but hardly any help in setting up a Shakespeare company. Hollywood is a state of mind that measures talent strictly by dollar potential; it can measure how hot you are to the last cent, and its audiences tend to be as sensitive to this as the agents and producers. L.A., it seems to me, is a town still searching to define itself as a city. Even with "Shakespeare in Love" wowing the place, there is a certain anxiety about Shakespeare. Is there real money in him? How will the film do in Topeka, Kan.? The agents don't like theater because they want their clients to be ever free for the screen. Some agents would not even let their major clients come to meet me unless there was already an offer on the table. I said that it didn't seem reasonable to make an offer without meeting the artist. I wasn't going to submit them to an audition, but surely it would be wise to see if we both got on? No, this ignorant foreigner invariably lost."

Chris, what an interesting insight! The place has probably the biggest pool of talented actors in the world, but they are there not to act but to wait--in case the TV or the movie calls. This reminds me of surf... I look out to the sea and see a dozen surfers, freezing in the water and looking out at the horizon...waiting...waiting...waiting for the waves... They spend 90% of their time in the water, not catching the waves. This is true about surfers in Portugal, I don't know about other places. Anyway, I'm glad CF went on stage, instead of just waiting!

Interesting articles, ladies. (Chris) The agents don't like theater because they want their clients to be ever free for the screen. This is happening on B'way. New plays with big name actors are being advertised for limited runs (which are still longer than 3DOR's 2 weeks at the Donmar); successful plays with big names change stars like we change shirts. As for SLOW: For the most part they avoid them altogether, or when they do happen they are mainly between white men and black women Isn't that what SLOW is about? Last I checked, Colin was white and Nia Long was black so the movie doesn't necessarily break new ground. But there has to be a reason it didn't sell and I wouldn't be surprised it was this one. (Winter) I see where the actor (La Salle) is coming from. He sees an urgency to ammend existing stereotypes of black/black couples, before jumping into the black/white issue. I see your point, Winter, but feel somewhat nervous comparing real life to this series with its abysmally contrived story lines. But I suppose that's how we interpret ourselves in this country...and how others interpret us.

Re: SLOW...But there has to be a reason it didn't sell and I wouldn't be surprised it was this one. If the theory that the racial element in SLOW is the deterrent; (and no one knows for sure..... The American Film Market in Santa Monica where SLOW was screened last month, was also attended by UK and European distribs..not just American. Why didn't one of them pick it up....Entertainment Films in UK, Alliance in Canada & UK, Itatly, Germany? When Handmade owned it I remember them telling us that Israel and Sweden had indicated an interest...but then Handmade went belly-up and the film went to the creditors. ***** In opera performances the cast often includes black sopranos with white tenors. Sadly...seldom the other way around.Except in Othello.

Sir Peter Hall in H-Wood.... "No, this ignorant foreigner invariably lost." Poor guy has problems everywhere he goes....in UK too.

(winter) I see where the actor (La Salle) is coming from. He sees an urgency to ammend existing stereotypes of black/black couples, before jumping into the black/white issue. (1) The Benton-Corday relationship was over months ago. Moreover, Eric LaSalle's character is wholly career-oriented to the total exclusion of personal relationships with black or white women. (2) No one on ER has a happy normal relationship. Mark Green is divorced and has scraped the bottom of the barrel. For the longest time, Doug Ross was pond scum and has now left Whatsername. If they led normal happy lives we wouldn't watch the show! FYI, the information I heard about Eric LaSalle was that he threatened to leave the show because they had not given him episodes where he was showcased. Given the imminent departure of George Clooney, the producers caved, and a few weeks ago, there was the episode where he was fill-in doctor in rural Mississippi. **** Thank you Chris for posting the article. Only goes to prove that "show business" is business. Fewer people are doing projects for the love of the art. A shame, especially when you look at the names of the people mentioned. Many of the people could take the time off and do something for their soul, instead of for the box office. How much more money does someone like Dustin Hoffman need! I read the other day that Cate Blanchette is doing a six-month run of "Plenty" in London starting next month even though she is being inundated by scripts and offers. Good for her!

GP is going to do summer stock in Williamstown, Mass. where her mom has starred.She's going to play a role in "As you like It " I think.

Well, Shakespeare did leave his mark on her then ;-)

Or Ben Affleck, he's from this area (I'm in MA)

Note to Peter Hall re: that wonderful group of "American" actors -- Christopher Plummer is Canadian... and Minnie Driver is hardly a Yank:-)

I bought a magazine called OK, with pics from the Oscars. it said that Gwynie and Ben Affleck might be together again. For what it's worth... :-)

For what it's worth, I always had a hunch they were never apart.

I was wondering do we know who the Presenters (is that the right word) are at the forthcoming BAFTA's , seeing as Colin is in the minority as regards nominees I think it would be really lovely if he were asked to present an Award. Does anyone know how we can find out who are making the Presentations this year, Jennifer Ehle and Stephen Fry presented an Award last year, Evelyn did you know that she was going to be a Presenter. Oh dear please excuse the grammar but you know what I mean.

(Ann W. ) Evelyn did you know that she was going to be a Presenter. Yes, but I think either Bethan or you told me. The Presenters are announced closer to the time of the Awards. Any bets on Best Picture? Think SIL will take it or Elizabeth Best Actress? Best Actor? Think the seats at the Royal Theatre will hold Mr. Benigni up?I am glad that Joe Fiennes was nom. I don't think he'll get it...but I think he deserved a nom. Best Suporting Actor ...if Tom Wilkinson gets it...it will be on his UK television popularity..IMO.That award belongs to ODB. And then...I wonder who the token American will be....can't be Kathy Bates..that would be a slap to Dame Judi.I think it will be Ed Harris for The Truman Show (gag, gag) Does anyone know where the entire List of Noms is posted. I couldn't find it on the BAFTA website.

What is the URL of the BAFTA website, PLEASE.

Is anyone else having a problem with The Spring. When I click on the one at colinfirth.com I get some site in Austin, Texas. I have it bookmarked but get the same thing either place.

What is the URL of the BAFTA website, PLEASE.

The BAFTA site is http://www.bafta.org When I click on the one at colinfirth.com I get some site in Austin, Texas. Lucie, the *one* what? The link at cf.com should take you to the main Drool page, which for the unregistered public is: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/browse/drool/all FYI, Spring is headquartered in Austin, Tex. So you're in the right place. :) If you're having problems, we can go into more detail at nomdedrool@yahoo.com. But I will go check out the link to here at cf.com. (Renate, weren't you mentioning something about changing it after our London pilgrimages?)

The other good website for BAFTA info is http.www.pa.press.net which is the UK Press Association website.Click on Entertainment for a short list of the BAFTA noms.Last year they posted the awards as they were presented.

Let's try that one again: http://www.pa.press.net

---FYI GP has been doing summerstock at Williamstown with Mom for yrs. I, too, noticed the changed page we are getting from the front page of colinfirth.com. But if I go into the CF Links from there and THEN press the Spring Discussion bar, I get the old header page for the public. The only problem I've noticed there, though, is that no matter what topic link you press on, you still start at Topic 3 and load the WHOLE THING. I'd really like our old page back, please..

Karen R. that is a great picture you posted. Thank you ever so much. Colin looks great in his dancing shoes. Where did you find it. I would love to get my own copy. In reference to the above topic, the way I get here is by saving this location on favorites. When I click on favorites this site is readily available. Has anyone tried doing it that way?

Susan, the picture came from the Miramax site, but there were lots of other people in the original picture. Why waste the KB? The Drool main page is the front door. Most of us do come in the back door, i.e., right into the topics. Yes, I see the cf.com link has been changed to Spring's main page. Now, in addition to the Ph.D one needs to figure out how to post here, one also needs a detailed map from the motor club. Oh well....

Sorry, all, if I confused you by changing the link. I am in the process to clean up the page a bit for visitors (nudge, nudge, wink, wink). I have also registered cf.com at Yahoo and Excite and will go on to publish it. Considered the sometimes rather private nature of the subjects discussed I prefer occasional visitors not to find their way here too easily. Karen could you please post a description how the present visitors here get in the easiest way (I myself have bookmarked the "restricted" URLs of each board, as Susan describes, or change the boards number if required). Sorry, if I did it so secretly - at least I know now that the links are actually used ;-) - I meant to explain later, when I have a bit more time.

Thanks, Renate, for the explanation. I did notice some of the changes and additions, like the Fixture List. Cute. Actually, my preferred method of accessing Drool is *through* the front door, i.e., the main Drool page, which I have bookmarked, for a few reasons: First, I can see how much activity there has been (number of topics with new postings) just to get a feel for how much time I will be spending here! This only works if you keep your setting on "All New" and deal with all the other topics you are not interested in, i.e., mark them as Read or go through them so they don't show up anymore unless they too have activity. Second, I look at the listing of most recent postings below for irregularities, such as a person posting to a topic but it doesn't show up above as new, and the infamous 2036 date. If that happens then I know I will have to reinitialize all the topics once the dreaded date thing has been fixed. What is reinitializing you ask? If you use the "All New" designation, the new postings don't show up in the conference list. Therefore, you must go into each of the topics you read manually (by bookmark or by c anging the url) and then use the Redisplay box to back up to the unseen comments. After you do this once, everything appears to work just fine. Third, the main Drool page is where we post notices of new topics being opened. If you bookmark, you may or may not find out about those. This is the bookmark I use: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/browse/drool/all/new Then I go into the first topic on my conference list of New and from then on I use the buttons at the bottom for "Next Topic." As long as your setting is All New, you will go to the next topic with "New" postings. Is this clear as mud? ;-)

Just found out that the Bafta Ceremony is to be held at the Business Design Centre in ISLINGTON, so CF could pop in make a Presentation and then pop back home again, no trouble!!

Just saw this rather interesting blurb. Gosh, is it that hard for a film to get a distributor in the U.S.?. Roger Ebert dedicates his ``Overlooked Film Festival'' to his late partner Gene Siskel. The fest, April 21-25 will be held at the U. of Illinois (Ebert's alma mater) and the Virginia Theatre in Urbana-Champaign, Ill. Pix include Heather Rose's ``Dance Me to My Song,'' which was a Palme d'Or competitor at Cannes last year but hasn't been picked up for distribution in America yet. Hmm... wonder what else Rog has lined up for this fest...

Thanks Susan for this tidbit. The program sounds very interesting. Here's the link to the entire program at the U of I (also my alma mater). http://www.uiuc.edu/unit/pa/ebertfest

Thank you Karen and Renata. I come in through ROP now and it works.

Karen, thanks for the link. Doesn't look like Roger is running anything of interest to us droolers.I thought there might be a chance SLOW was on the program -- Ebert's wife is black and perhaps the story would have special appeal to him.

I was not expressing my plea for our old link back for my own sake...I can get in and to what I want with alacrity. I am simply waxing nostalgic for when I first found Drool (yep, through RoP) and was so delighted and I hate to deprive any and all potential lurkers/posters the privilege I had to wander around drool at will. Totally remove a Topic or two, Oh ye Paranoic Few, but give Drool back to the potential newbies, please. IMHO, that is...

All those years ago, I found this site by using search engines (all I could find) to hunt up anything about Colin Firth. Many trials and downloads of pix later I found this haven for the Firthsty, and here I am still! Those who want to find it enough will find it. Those who want an easy fix or to lurk will not bother or will bypass it. It is like the Holy Grail. Only those truly deserving get to see it ;)

Marcia, that's exactly my idea. Who wants to find it will find it easily, others mustn't find it. but give Drool back to the potential newbies, please. Kjart, after all, the main page of Spring is just one more click away from the link we had before. From the Spring entry page you only have to go to "drool".

others mustn't find it. oooops. I think I used a wrong word...... should be: "needn't find it".

( Marcia), It is like the Holy Grail. Only those truly deserving get to see it ;) Marcia, how right you are!!!

Just read an article from "This is London" about Charles Dance and his play currently at the Donmar Warehouse. (He was in attendance at Colin's play and played Maxim de Winter in Rebecca) This critic was rather fond of his interpretation. What I found most interesting is that he mentions his Internet fan club, as run by a group of women who refer to themselves as "Charlie's Angels." He also says the information they have on him is extraordinary and he finds it very touching. They have even sent him a g od luck charm (a silver cherub) which he keeps with him and refers to as my "good luck angel." Here's a post http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/dynamic/hottx/theatre/top_direct.html

Jana, that�s very interesting! Wonder why our adored one is so hostile to the Internet and all the massive pr work that his fans do for him. And still it seems that he likes to have fans. Well, there is one possible reason that comes to my mind, in case I remember correctly. Wasn�t his Hackney home address availabe in one of the sites for the whole world to see? It was removed later but I�d imagine that he didn�t like it very much if he ever came to know about it. I think that was inhumane and could have caused him some trouble.

Jana, thanks for the link -- interesting article. And it makes me wonder... ladies, if we were to give Colin a similar good luck charm, what should it be? Perhaps a deer (for all the "deers" here and for "Our Deer Boy")? Other suggestions? ;-)

A few weeks ago I read an article on Matthew McCoughnahey in which the interviewer informed him of his "numerous" web sites and discussion boards, including a board for posting dreams had about him (!). One such posting was included in the article. He was flattered--sees himself as both artist and product. Fan appeal increases his worth as a product. Interesting way of looking at it; also v. different than ODB's perhaps-out-of-context-one-time-only quote we went on about a while ago. Personally, I wo ld feel invaded if I opened a magazine and saw one of my posts written up in an article. Gives me some insight as to how the stars feel. A good luck charm? How about a tiny silver spring? Nah, your deer idea is better, Susan.

(Eileen) if I opened a magazine and saw one of my posts written up in an article Yeah, that�s one of the reasons why I don�t wish the name Firth to be included in the Fan Fic. Not only fans read it but anybody, possibly reporters too who could want to have some fun using such material in some more or less funny context!!

Not only did I lose the above posting, but I've now accidently re-posted it at #80 (if anyone is interested!) Sorry, am too lazy to re-post a re-post!

Not only that, but no one can get into chat!

(Elena) Wasn�t his Hackney home address availabe in one of the sites for the whole world to see? Elena, allow me to be a bit sceptic about this rumour. I'm sure that it was never on a site associated with the Friends of Firth (contradict me, lurking FoFs ;-)). I believe, if his address had been online sometime, somewhere, it would be known among his long-time fans, if not the address, at least the fact. That's the kind of information that *never* gets lost once gained. ;-) .

**(Elena) Wasn�t his Hackney home address availabe in one of the sites for the whole world to see?** Renata I'm contradicting you somewhat. The site you refer to was not directly linked to FoF's, however, you could link it from others. Back in the days when I didn't have a computer at home(Jan-1996) I printed copies of things on CF. I have a hard copy of that web page which includes the site address and the information with his address and agent's address on it.

Excuse me I started printing things in approximately June of 96. Although, I have a Firth FAQ sheet dated back to January 15, 1996.

(Elena) Wonder why our adored one is so hostile to the Internet and all the massive pr work that his fans do for him. Elena, honey, he's not! I think he was quite aware how so many of the audience at the Donmar came together from all over the world - from the Internet. And you know firsthand, he was not hostile at all. I hope you don't really think that's true. Read Bethan's posting at 80. Thought that was sweet about Charles Dance.

Is Donavan Quick a BBC production? If it is we might get to see it on A&E What is wrong with Chat? The review I read about Charles Dance was not very good, as a matter of fact it was really bad. How about a horse charm, since he looks so great on a steed, and seems to get to do a lot of riding in his films.

Thank you Karen for the URL

***I tried this morning to get in through the "front door" as you called it...but did so as someone totally ignorant. Started with a search engine, finally got cf.con through the FoF page (bless 'em) and "explored" into the "spring" link. I spent 20 minutes trying to figure out what that page was about and the first question that entered my mind after all that blundering about was "What does this site have to do with Colin Firth??? Why did they put this link there, anyway???" Please, take the whole bl sted "Spring" link off the cf main page...it is useless and only put there as a blind and does a disservice to his fans. (Well, since everyone else seems to have reverted to surly the last week on so, why should I be different?? ;-))

Take heart, KJArt, I still get Email from Newbies who are so afraid their English is not perfect enough that they will not post. Yet, they have the same joy and longing for ODB as the rest of us have, and they, none of them, have mentioned how difficult it was finding this Fountain of Firth. Tomorrow, I am going to ask one lady in particular how she did find us and, particularly, me! It should prove interesting as she lives in Russia!

How about a vial of Holy Water for his good luck piece? If it breaks, he will be just the way we like him best, blessed and wet!!! We could choose a Celtic Holy well, a Christian source, a Jewish source...whatever. I am sure it goes so far back into the past that man has worshipped the source of fresh water that there is a place on which we can all agree.

KJart. I agree the site they have there is a local Austin, Texas site and has nothing what so ever to do with ODB. Yech

(Renate)Elena, allow me to be a bit sceptic about this rumour Like Jana said, it�s not a rumour, I saw it there and so did many others. (Heide) And you know firsthand, he was not hostile at all YES!! I know. He respects his fans more than anybody I�ve ever seen. But I�m not so sure that he�s aware of the positive role of the INTERNET in getting so much audience to Donmar. And he hardly was misquoted in that question-answer article....all I�m saying is that Dance seems to be touchingly grateful for all the information about him in the net but Colin is not, for some reason. I�d like to know the reason.

I clicked into Spring Austin to see how easy it would be to work my way back here and it wasn't. But please, we're here by the grace of Terry who runs the spring and we've got to be grateful he lets us take up so much space. We ain't cheap. As a matter of fact, Nan used to run an occasional pledge drive to help Terry with the costs. I'll ask Terry first and then post an address where any small amount can be sent to help keep this board running. I'm disappointed our link at cf.com has been changed but that's completely up to the discretion of the 3 Deers. There was no cf.com when I first found this place but here I am. ROP still links us and many others have gotten on through word of mouth. Use Karen's directions at message #488 and write down the full address for anyone who asks. I prefer to get in that way too...you might miss something if you don't. How about a little epee charm? Excuse me, a large epee charm. And Colin, honey, if by any remote chance you've found us, I'm kidding, I'm kidding.

Colin :-) or Heide, please tell me what�s an epee charm?!

Have been invaded by houseguests (family and tourist friends) here for the holiday, so let me take this opportunity to wish everyone Happy Easter/Happy Passover/Happy Whatever. Enjoy! Don't eat too much chocolate!

Terry will gratefully accept any small donation you can make to help keep the Spring out of the hole. No obligations, of course, but if you're able to help out, a check can be made out to The Spring and mailed to: The Spring Rt.2 Box 56r Cedar Creek, TX 78612 I will post this at the other topics, so bear with the repetitions.

(Elena) please tell me what�s an epee charm I'm afraid my attempt at humor is somewhat twisted. An epee is a fencing sword such as he wields so well as Mr. Darcy and Valmont. One might also say he wields it well in Hour of the Pig (aka Advocate) but there only symbolically. ;-) I echo Eileen wishes for a happy weekend, whatever. Hope we all spend it with friends and family.

Just a bit of info. for sword enthusiasts (I am an ex-fencer): epee - wimpy sword, with big protective handle and gentle rules (only points for a point contact and only on the torso), foil - more vigorous, allowed to hit arms too, sabre - the real man's sword, any part of the body as a target, including head, and allowed to cut (score with the edge of the sword as well as the point). Naturally, I fought sabre :-D. (I must own, however, that I wasn't that good. V. painful.) Do you really want to relegate YDB to epee, elegant but slow and rather floppy?

Which one is he using in P&P in the "I shall conquer this" scene?

(Ben)Naturally, I fought sabre :-D. (I must own, however, that I wasn't that good. V. painful.) Do you really want to relegate YDB to epee, elegant but slow and rather floppy? Naturally, Ben. Karen, I believe that Mr Darcy is holding a foil. Didn't the Three Muskateers hold Epees? (a joke)

Don't know. The foil and the epee both have a spherically symmetric guard, the epee's big and the foil's small. The sabre's guard has an extension that covers the thumb. The sword is similar to those used by cavalrymen. (Have you ever seen Terence Stamp as Sergeant Troy showing off his sword play to Julie Christie's Bathsheba?) I'm sure you can conjure up the scene in your mind's eyes and take a closer look at the guard...

This is a most curious discussion. One half of it is a serious discourse on swords and their close realitives. The other side is doing allegory. Most entertaining. And, read in reverse, as in Heide's version of the Netherfield Ball, is highly amusing. More!!!

Ben, as an ex-fencer (surely not!?!?), how would you evaluate Colin�s fencing abilities in P&P and SiL? Does it look like he has had some real training? It looks very good to me but could be it�s amateurish in the eyes of someone who knows something about fencing.

Elena, oh ye of little faith. I fenced for three years at school. As I say, I wasn't much good, and used to retire every Thrusday evening leaving blood trails and assorted limbs behind me. Well, not quite, but almost. It is BLOODY painful being whacked on the head or the arms with a flailing sabre. Anyway, CF looked alright to my inexpert eyes. For Marcia's benefit (:-)), the main attacking movement in foil and sabre is the lunge...a purposeful thrust from the back leg, with the front leg advancing aggressively in the direction of the opponent. The blade is forced forward at the same time, and, if the opponent is successfully hit, a small electric pulse records the score. The "passata-soto" is a subtle lunge, whereby the opponent is distracted by dropping one hand to the floor and thrusting with the other. The balestra lunge, a double advance, is graceful, but extremely aggressive (and, therefore, risky).

(Jana) I have a hard copy of that web page which includes the site address and the information with his address and agent's address on it. Jana, that's very interesting. I have had access to some good sources for quite a while but never even heard a rumour about his address being posted online. What surprises me most that this info (besides you, Jana, there must have been some others who found and saved it) apparently was never re-posted. Very tactful. Bravo, brava! The Austin site is the main page to Spring (with much more areas than drool), which hosts all these boards and cf.com. Terry runs this place on a non-profit basis, as far as I know, and is very generous with his server space. I thought it was only polite to put a link to his main entry on the cf.com main page. I considered to remove the Spring link completely, but left it for the above reason, and because it is a good compromise between the different positions: for some Spring can't be public enough, while others cringe at the thought who all may read these boards. It will be much easier soon to find the cf.com page through the search machines. I have started with Yahoo and Excite to register them, but it can take some time (2 weeks) until you see results, and will add further search machines when I find the time. PS: I hate that "clear" button in this place - just hit it when I meant to submit. $*~\&%!x<>#. Just what I needed.

*%$'# italics!

Now in Hour of the Pig, one can see the very movement Ben is describing; the main attacking movement in foil and sabre is the lunge...a purposeful thrust from the back (leg). The blade is forced forward at the same time, and, if the opponent is successfully hit, a small electric pulse records the score. I'm not sure about the pulse in HOTP but surely the rooster crow would suffice. He may have been using an epee in P&P and Valmont (with Cecile) but surely a sabre was used in HOTP. Renate, I understand your reluctance for "other" eyes to find the discussion above and others of its kind. One needs several submersions to fully understand us and I'm afraid one visit might be one visit too many for some. I'm still disappointed but realize there's nothing keeping us from seeking out others to link us. Another avenue to explore...

*%$'# italics!

(Heide) but surely a sabre was used in HOTP. Yes, I believe Maria commented on it. Very pragmatic girl. "Waste not, want not."

I love the idea of his fans giving CF a good luck charm as a symbol of our adoration and good wishes. My favorite is the sword-like object whatever it is being called, {epee, sabre}. We might have one custom-made in gold with the letters CF engraved on the handle. I would gladly contribute to such an endeavor. I'm in, Firthies.

I would also like to wish everyone at Spring a very Happy Spring Holiday season. Happy Easter, Happy Passover etc...

I too wish to wish one and all Happy Holiday Thank you Ben, you are a well of imformation.

BTW Renata are we going to have a picture of Wessex in the advent pics?

Poor Cecile. I was thinking Valmont used a weapon on her but of course it was only a stick. No double entendres meant. It's late...go to bed.

I came home from getting the annual scholarship drive underway and I was exhausted until I read today's postings here. Ben, you are a gentleman and a scholar. Thank you for the parry-thrust-lunge forth and back and so on. And, like the creative dear that she is, Heide lept into the affray with rapier wit and a cock to crow for Maria. You made my day, dear Firthians. But, then, you always do ;) Happy Holidays all, even the other guy's whose you just might borrow for the weekend. Be safe and e joy!

More Donmar Pictures: Murph graciously is sharing this page with the Drool fans. http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/private/kath.html It is a private link page, but the owner has given her permission. Also with her permission, on Murph's Appreciation pages,she has a link to a LARGE version of one for a desktop This is a wonderful page and we are grateful to Murph and Kathryn.

Thank you Murph and Kathryn. The pictures are truly wonderful. I only wish I could make them even bigger.

They are really great and so many, thank you.

OH oh my GOD, the pics are great, thank you Kathryn and Murph. What smiles! What on earth did you people do and say to him to make him look so ecstatically happy?.......I�d also like to know when these pictures were taken, was it the last Saturday performance?

I�d also like to know when these pictures were taken, was it the last Saturday I don't know when they were taken exactly (guess the 2nd weekend), but it was definitely not the last Saturday.

Some were Friday night and others were Saturday (the ones with Charles Dance) of the same weekend we were there, Elena. Thank you Kathryn and Murph for sharing. The pictures are fabulous.

I�d also like to know when these pictures were taken, was it the last Saturday I don't know when they were taken exactly (guess the 2nd weekend), but it was definitely not the last Saturday.

Karen's right, except it's John Boorman, not Charles Dance...if I'm not mistaken.

Sorry, Gi, but in Kathryn's pictures, #16 (fourth row down, on far right) shows Colin talking to Charles Dance. :) Not sure about the bald headed guy though. (Boorman and Dance do look a little alike.) Both Dance and Boorman were there for the Saturday night show, but the shot outside is Dance. I spoke to him a little.

Glad you all liked the pics...sweet of Kathryn and Murph to share them with Spring. However, this is a private page and the owner requests (understandably) that they not be downloaded on another website page. Although it is alright to download them on your own private files. Charles Dance and John Boorman were there the first Saturday, March 5th. (3 DOR only played two Saturdays)I think some of the pics were taken also on Friday March 4th. I particularly like the ones of the cast taking the bows. That's some camera...and photographer!!

And some pics are even dated March 6th. I'll look for Charles Dance on #16 (yes, I saw him there too, only not in the pics), and I think he and Boorman do not look alike. Dance has a very noticeable face and colouring. I didn't know you'd talked to him, Karen.:-) By coincidence, I saw him and Emilia Fox in Rebecca again on TV 2 days ago (not my favourite version of the story)

(Evelyn) I particularly like the ones of the cast taking the bows Yes, me too. They�re unique because they�re so far the only ones I�ve seen taken inside the theater with Colin on stage...and after all, seeing Colin on stage WAS the most important part of that trip. One of the pics is like straight from my own memory, I mean the way Colin stands a second before the bow, bent a little backwards, looking mighty pleased. And as far as I can tell the pic really was taken 6th March!! Wonderful.

A handful of you will receive an invitation (as below) to a mailing list named "springfolks" re cf.com business. If you are not among them it does not exclude you, I just did not know your valid email address, or I'm in doubt if you want to receive any email at all. If you want to join the "springfolks" list, too, send me a brief mail: renate@twinwave.net This is the welcome message: " Welcome to the Springfolks list! I have created this list mainly for the droolies posting on Spring, but every Colin-Firth-fan is welcome. It's not meant to be a competition to the Firthlist, or to the Spring boards, but to make communication easier. There are things you may want to share, but not with the whole world, or you don't have all email addresses at hand. (Happens to me quite often). This is also for emergency cases when chat doesn't work, or the boards are down, or for private links. Let me k ow what you think of this list. I hope you join and enjoy it. " You will have to accept the invitation to make it work. One of the reasons I created that list is that I have to cut down my net activities considerably and go into deep lurkdom for at least 2-3 months, and very likely can't even try to keep up with mail sent to 3deers or my addresses. That way somebody else can step in, Nan, Kirsten, Arami, Karen, Heide, whoever, depending on subject and availability. Even if I retire temporarily I will try to tie up some loose ends, such as wrong links etc.. I also continue to register cf.com in various search engines, and try to optimize the meta tags and source codes for best search results. To all who sent mails to threedeers@yahoo.com: please report spring/chat trouble to Karen or Heide directly, or in the future to the above list.

Again: the mailing list is not intended to replace the boards, or compete with them. Just an offer to make the already existing email communication easier.

Just an offer I think I meant "option".

CF's private home address in Hackney has never been known publicly: in the FAQ's website, (recently removed), the alleged address which for some reason appeared to be his own, was merely the address of his previous agent.

To those of you not familiar with the February 7, 2036 curse, the fact that not all the topics are showing up (unless you click on "All" or "New") does not mean there aren't any new postings. Unfortunately, just the topics with 2/7/36 messages will show up until Terry fixes it which I'm sure he will shortly. Nothing to be alarmed about. Thanks to Kathryn for being so generous with her pictures and Murph for giving us accessibility to the page. There are some great shots there and I'm happy that those were weren't at the Donmar can get a good look at the cast in character...as well as that bed.

Renata, my e-mails to you keep being returned. Lucie

I love this curse. At least the PC I am using does not have a problem with the year 2036!!! (Yes, Yes, I know!!!!) It is nice to know some things still work...even if they need joggling from time to time =P

Why can't I get in with my old bookmark? I've had to enter through Spring.net, Log in, and then select one of the last few responses posted on the bottom of the screen. Where's my index of topics? (whhaaaa!)

**(Arami)CF's private home address in Hackney has never been known publicly: in the FAQ's website, (recently removed), the alleged address which for some reason appeared to be his own, was merely the address of his previous agent.** This address did not come from the FAQ website but from another source.

I'm Beginning to think that I have on and off computer 'spells'. I can stay away from it for about a week, but then I start suffering "CF Withdrawals" and then I've had it! So what is this about CF returning to 3DOR later in the year. Is it fact, a possibility or just fiction? I haven't heard much about him in Aus lately. Can anyone tell me any news on what he is doing at the moment. Down Under, you get out of touch 'really' easily!

Houseguests are heading home (I can report that all NYC landmarks are intact and more popular than ever). I'm catching up with news and posts. Loved those FOF Donmar pics. It's nice to see all the Firthfan contingents sharing. (Heide) and I'm happy that those were weren't at the Donmar can get a good look at the cast in character...as well as that bed. Yes! I'm grateful for all the pictures, posts, chats, my program, etc. all the more because I wasn't there. BTW, there is a pic of Colin as Ned over at Murph's site (sorry, don't have the link handy). Go to her CF Appreciation Redux section and click on 3DOR. Pictures take forever to oad but are worth it. What smiles! I see what you mean, Elena. That first picture...WOW! Oh, to have been on the other side of that!!

AMAZING!!! Apartment Zero seems to be on the Finnish tv tonight in about two hours, I realized this only a minute ago. I haven�t seen the movie....and I don�t get that &%�#* channel! I don�t even know anybody who does, it�s one of the commercial ones with nothing of interest usually. Now I just have to get somewhere to see it.

Take along your handy portable Video tape recorder so you can check back at the best Firthing places. It is amazing and fully understandable the lengths we will go to obtain a sighting of the BD even if it is not live. It's a weird movie (tres noir), but I think you will enjoy Him! The TV channels here do that too...they show something of his on a channel which is readily available on Oahu (where Honolulu is) but not on our Island. Most unfair! Good luck, Dear!

Elena, another thing...will AZ be in his voice or dubbed into Finnish by someone else? Or just subtitles?

Marcia, in Finland movies are NEVER dubbed, what a horrible idea. They�re always subtitled, so don�t worry, I�ll be able to hear His voice!.....btw I�ve found a place where I think I can see it, a workmate of mine gets that channel (I�m still at work at the moment). But I hear her tv picture or how do you call it is pretty bad, foggy or something. Let�s see!

Hope you get to see AZ, Elena, with or without fuzzy TV reception. I once rented that along with Valmont and The Advocate. Talk about Colin's range as an actor! BTW, there is a pic of Colin as Ned over at Murph's site Please disregard this from my earlier post. Murph has changed her 3DOR page (it's still worth a visit if you've not been there yet).

Go for it anyway, Elena! I envy you :-)

(JanaC)This address did not come from the FAQ website but from another source. Which one, please? (Sooooooo curious........I thought I'd seen it all... ;-))

A quick round-up, before succombing yet gain to demands of work and family! Great photos! Many thanks! What I really hope is that in Donovan Quick we get to see him (finally) as we really is...a few grins, the occasional smile, natural hair colour (fine by me!) and no moustache! He very rarely plays parts that allow him to smile...although DonQ sounds rather serious. Mannen, you asked for news of CF. I think that it would be very helpful if we had some sort of CF diary into which we could slot upcoming events. I know my time at the computer is going to be limited during the summer ...a quick checklist would be wonderful. For starters (all from memory, may not be all accurate!) April 1999 onwards, Shooting Donovan Quick for BBC Scotland, (Beautiful weather up there at the moment) April 10 ATA video on sale UK June 11 MLSF released NY/LA July 9 FP released NY/LA Late 1999 Possible re-run for 3DOR Early 2000 Possible scheduling for DonQ on UK TV Other events to look out for; MLSF release date (please!!) in UK and elewhere Announcement of casting for BJD movie Shooting dates BJD Publication of book sequel to BJD SLOW ..was originally sold to Canada, Israel, Scandinavia, Russia, even if not US/UK... keep a look out! Could this sort of info be posted somewhere..another board perhaps, and we could post if we have any real news/dates? Would anyone else find this sort of "diary" approach helpful? Renate, your "Springfolks " idea sounds fine. Count me in. I'm finding it difficult to make time to check my emails at the moment.

Bethan, to join the list you have to reply to the invitation email. For others who have no personal email account: there's the option to get a public web-based email account, at yahoo or other places. Also on that list there's the option to read it online. Check here: http://www.egroups.com/

I have found an interesting link http://www.bbc.co.uk/scotland/contact.shtml which list BBC's Scotland's forthcoming dramas, no mention of DQ yet but is does mention another David Blair film in production, I think it will be a useful link to check on possible update and news of Donovan Quick. Bethan I think it would be an excellent idea to have a sort of diary of forthcominng CF events or dates to note etc.

...news of CF. I think that it would be very helpful if we had some sort of CF diary into which we could slot upcoming events. ...a quick checklist would be wonderful. There should be a place for this sort of thing in cf.com, but regular updating is a problem.

(Elena)in Finland movies are NEVER dubbed, what a horrible idea. My thought, precisely. However, having just received mail from a FirthFan in Moscow telling of such things, I did not know. She had to watch SiL and ODB's loveliness whilst listening to a Russian doing the speaking. Worse, the same lady did all of the actresses' lines, and with a hoarse voice sounding like she was about to lose it to a bad cold. No matter how miserable the conditions under which I had to watch this movie, it was better than that!

(Arami)There should be a place for this sort of thing in cf.com, but regular updating is a problem. I have just hit upon a solution. I have seen the pictures of all those Firthettes at 3DoR. They were close enough to suggest some interesting possibilities. For those attending at the end of the year, suggest he keep his journal on firth.com, and we will provide him the service of reminding him when important things are forthcoming that need his attention. How logical! How efficacious! How wonderful! Ok, shoot me down as a dreamer. But, I like the idea!

Am I the only one concerned about how new Firthfans are going to find us? The Spring Boards button on cf.com is not v. informative about Drool... Is our website linked on RoPemberley? That would be a logical place since most people come in through P&P. I often email posters on the P&P and VV boards who seem interested in CF and invite them to come here. (That's how Ben and Cheryl came).I do the same for JE. Any other ideas?I think expanding Colin's fan base is an important part of our mission. I do concur that it was prudent to eliminate Drool from the cf.com buttons. And thank you 3 Deers for not calling us "The Wicked Women of Drool" any more:-) But I have a feeling that as we become more overt...the spontaneous spirit of Drool will die. Pl. don't take this as a negative criticism...it is a sincere concern of mine and I would like to have some feedback....not a fight:-)

Sorry; Error.. should be" as we become more covert...." I hope you all get the idea.....

(Evelyn) Am I the only one concerned about how new Firthfans are going to find us? Of course I am concerned. That is why I talk to myself in chat and on 113. But, on the positive side, I am getting Email from lurkers (5 or 6 of them) who are too shy, too busy, too unsure of their command of English, etc to post. I keep them busy with Email and have gotten a few onto the boards recently. However, without something here to provoke them to post (that is what got me onto the boards from the lurking of one month's duration), all the advertising will get us nothing but more lurkers. Let' get creative (yeah, it's late in the day for me, too) - tomorrow!

Great to catch up on your wonderful, amusing postings after a trauma with my phone line!!! Will do my bit with the Donmar in due course.

(Evelyn) I think expanding Colin's fan base is an important part of our mission. But I have a feeling that as we become more covert...the spontaneous spirit of Drool will die. If we're reaching out to others, it should make no difference that the link from cf.com is not as direct. The potential posters we are losing are the casual but interested surfers (that's how I got here). So if the current link is not changed, we will have to increase our marketing efforts. I like the chat idea--have we ev r come to concensus on a good time to regularly chat? It works so well for special occasions. (Marcia) However, without something here to provoke them to post I confess I had no idea how many lurkers there are around here until the Donmar experience when all these new names popped up in chat (they read about it over here). How can we get people to de-lurk? What exactly provoked you, Marcia?

(Marcia)I am getting Email from lurkers who are too shy, too busy, too unsure of their command of English, etc to post. I suppose I could say I'm one of those lurkers. I've made several posts on the Keepsake board, I think some of you know me. The reasons why I've never posted here are exactly the ones Marcia mentioned. I just wanted Lower Countries lurkers (and any others that get Dutch TV) to know that Nederland 1 is showing Nostromo this Friday (April 9th), 0.24 am till 2.04 am (why, oh why are they showing it at such an impossible hour? I'll have to ask my mother to tape it. Since I know that she and the timer on our video don't get along, I'm fearing the worst!)

(Tineke) The reasons why I've never posted here are exactly the ones Marcia mentioned. Certainly doesn't appear to be language, but will have to check with Bill F. when I see him! ;-)

Welcome Tineke, great to have you posting with us.

Good to see you over here, Tineke!

Welcome Tineke, the more the merrier.

Welcome Tineke !!

Well, I guess I am a lurker since I technically don't post very often. The main reason that I don't is because I never have much info as to what is happening with CF such as his new projects, etc.. I could certainly spend some time gushing over how handsome he is but I don't want to be too repetitive of what everyone else has already said. But I must say that in Sil, when he's singing a song while riding his horse down the road, I wanted to die laughing because it was such a cute scene!! Here I am becom ng all giddy just thinking about it again! : )

Tineke, if your English gets any better, the native speakers will be too shy to post! Thanks for coming over to the BIG Board! And, if you've not had the chance to claim your fondest wish on 113's newest list, go to it! The thing that provoked me to post was a really serious Dearth of Firth; when they had named all the horses, discussed repainting the carriages (rejected), and were into making silly songs irrelevant to P&P or CF or JA!!! There were long gaps in postings, so I thought if I wanted to read more there, I had better get to posting, myself! So I did. Nothing but the usual "Hello, I'm new and so forth". Everyone said Hi and were very nice. So I asked for my Keepsake to be a button from each of his garments - to be removed by me while He was wearing them. =D

Oh Stacey! How neat to see you. You Cannot be too repetetive. We live from drool to drool. It is like being tired of breathing in because every one has done it. These droolings are what we live for, and we need to read the next set to keep our enthusiasm up. Please feel free to let it make huge puddles all over the place. We will clean it up before you notice it has hit the ground! New droolies are the Viagra of Spring!

Hi Stacey, you can gush as much as you like, we never tire of hearing about our DB. IMO no one wears period costume or rides a horse like Colin, he was born to wear period costumes. I must say I do prefer him in period dramas to the more contemporary dramas but I will take anything. I am really looking forward to MLSF and I hope it opens in the UK simultaneously with the US so that we can all discuss it as soon as possible. So far I have heard of no UK release date but will keep my eyes and ears open.

(Marcia)You Cannot be too repetetive. Yes! And I�ll repeat!! I never get tired of hearing how handsome he is so please let it flow, Stacey. (Stacey)But I must say that in Sil, when he's singing a song while riding his horse down the road, I wanted to die laughing It�s the best scene in the whole movie, that�s my honest opinion. And the only one which really made me laugh aloud....and I was the only one who laughed in the whole place! What�s so funny about our hero singing, anyway?!:-)

That song was one of the first things claimed as a Keepsake on the SiL List. SBRobinson claimed it, and I took my little tape recorder and taped it for her on my second viewing of SiL. Too wonderful. I think he is both happy and clueless...the sun is shining, he is becoming rich without the trade-off of having to marry a homely woman to do so...Why indeed should he not be happy!!! That she does not love him matters little right at the moment!

Hi Tineke....great to have you....and you too Stacey...now don't go off some place else!! All this jubilation...I hate to bring the same ole "No news of SLOW". It is still owned by the bank...and goin'no where:-(

Does he also not believe that his rival, is now out of the way as well?

BTW I think Bethan's idea of a kind of diary is an excellent suggestion. It will also keep us going during the inevitable "low " times, which is why it is SO important to have your thoughts Stacey. It is a luxury to catch up with the postings and find that the drooling is exactly what you have drooled or would be drooling yourself, so as Ann has said we can never grow tired of exlurkers or occasional posters because they remind us of exactly why we are all here and how we really feel. ok I have clearly gone into "over-drool" , time to go!!

(Lizza)Does he also not believe that his rival, is now out of the way as well? Since he believes he killed the rival for Viola's affections, Indeed, another reason to sing! I have clearly gone into "over-drool" , time to go!! I understood that to be *Power-Drool* which means you are all warmed up and flowing copiously and waiting for more to join in! Not time to go...just beginning to get good!!!

Glad you brought up SIL here, ladies, 'cause I see no reason to keep it exclusively at 115 anymore. If you have been to 115 lately, you'll see there's a link to Murph's continuation of the Wessex and Viola story. Contrary to every other person in the movie theatre, you all want Viola and Wessex to live happily ever after. Check out Murph's story and see what she envisions for their future. I've always disliked the term "lurker"--sounds so sinister. Am I the only one concerned about how new Firthfans are going to find us? No. Is our website linked on RoPemberley? Yes. But I have a feeling that as we become more covert...the spontaneous spirit of Drool will die. Those of us here will remain as spontaneous as ever. I agree with you, Evelyn, that constant recruiting is necessary to keep new blood coming (though I love the old blood). Chat's a great forum for that. But ladies, you have to hang around a bit longer. How many times do you see someone logs on, sees no one there so logs off a minute later and then 10-15 minutes later someone else comes on. I talk to myself in chat and on 113 LOL, Marcia! Your conversations with yourself as almost as good as any drool fest.

Ah... at last I re-emerge (yes, this is where you ponder aloud "was she gone?") I have been plagued by Internal Server Error messages when attempting to access this lovely site, and would still be sobbing hysterically over my laptop and trying to thwart my Colin withdrawls with discounted Easter chocolates if it wasnt for the assistance of the lovely and gracious Marica. (Thank You Marcia! xoxo) (Stacey) The main reason that I don't is because I never have much info as to what is happening with CF such as his new projects, etc... This was my biggest reason for not delurking too. However, I finally couldnt stand it anymore, and so started posting rambling messages that are really completely uninformative, but help to make me feel connected and part of the group (see ramblings above as case in point) But I must say that in Sil, when he's singing a song while riding his horse down the road, I wanted to die laughing because it was such a cute scene!! Here I am becoming all giddy just thinking about it again! : ) i understand completely! I too can burst into spontaneous giggles at the thought of him on that horse, singing that silly song! :) It is my favorite part of the movie.

Hi Stacey, Hi Tineke... It's good to have you! I saw SIL again last night, do you think I will ever tire of him? The friend I went with (no Firth fan), criticised him the whole time! Boy, did she ever get on the wrong side of me. I decided to show her drool. She now knows that I am not the only person in the world who has singled out this particular beautiful boy.

Ah, nothing like a burst of new drool! Attention, lurkers (or for you, Heide, people who read but don't post [PWRBDP?]): come out, come out, where ever you are! (Stacey) The main reason that I don't is because I never have much info as to what is happening with CF I wrote this in my first post and my concerns were quickly put to rest. As you can see by all my posts, I rarely have anything earth-shattering to say but that hasn't stopped me! Welcome back, SBR. I've seen you at DWG so I knew you weren't far. (Lizza) It will also keep us going during the inevitable "low " times The diary is a fine idea--like Arami says, perhaps best suited to cf.com. Would it really be difficult to update? News about Colin seems to come in fits and starts (alot all at once than months of nothing). Newbies and delurkers will also keep us going during "low" times, IMO :-). (Heide) Chat's a great forum for that. But ladies, you have to hang around a bit longer. This doesn't always work either. I was in chat yesterday for about an hour, was off doing other things (such as reading Murph's Wessex and Viola story), didn't get back to hit the reload button frequently enough and missed two people (sorry, Ann!). Should we target a certain time(s)? Just as an experiment? Re: SiL--I've seen it 3 times and was the only one laughing each time when he sang. It's also my favorite part (although I love "now listen here, nursie" too). Mannen: did your friend dislike CF because of the Wessex character (means he was doing his job effectively)? Or *gasp* she just doesn't like ODB?

(Lizza)Does he also not believe that his rival, is now out of the way as well? (Marcia)Since he believes he killed the rival for Viola's affections, Indeed, another reason to sing! Horror! Not true! 'Twasn't him! Kit was killed by his own dagger, Wessex didn't have anything to do with it.

Welcome, Tineke.Stacey, you cannot be considered a lurker, we do see you here on and off!

Okay, I will delurk briefly. Just wanted to say I rented Ever After last night for the sole purpose of watching Dougray Scott who is in Jennifer Ehle's new movie. All I can say,"he is not handsome enough to tempt me". I don't think anyone can ever compare to the powerful charisma and sex appeal that CF exuded as Mr. Darcy. One thing I will say for DS-very nice bum in the breeches. :-)) A 7 on the Darcy meter.I know it is unfair to compare every actor in period costume to the uncomparable CF, I just can't help myself-anything to re-li e those heady days of P&P.

let's try incomparable instead of uncomparable and the last word that was cut- off is relive

Thanks all, for the warm welcome:-) Just a couple of questions: - Where's this chat room everyone's talking about? Is it at CF.com? - Is there a chance Colin or JE will be at the BAFTA's? I won't be home this Sunday. Is it worth taping? - I'll probably be going to London in two weeks. I'll try to see This Year's Love and Bedrooms and Hallways. Is there anything else you'd suggest?

Tineke, I know you found the Chat rooms. Good for you! Other people will tell you about the BAFTAs, but if Colin has a chance to be there, it'll be worth taping, won't it? :-)

I rather doubt that he'll be there, even though he lives virtually next door to the venue! SIL has 16 nominations, so half the cast and crew will be there, but Colin isn't directly involved. And it could be by invitation only. Personally, I think the BAFTA film awards are just very insipid, pointless cover of the Oscars and we don't have enough of a film "industry" to warrant a separate ceremony. It was OK when the film and TV awards were combined. Newspaper reports predict that GP, JF will win, also JD and Tom Wilkinson for his "outstanding" work in a support role. Huh! SNIFF! He won an award last year, so may well win again.

(Bethan)Newspaper reports predict that GP, JF will win, also JD I do hope JF wins...he deserved an Oscar nom. and IMO was slighted.

For anyone having trouble finding the chat room, copy this to your bookmarks: http://firth.com/chat/talk.cgi

Exactly a month since I returned from London!! And I�ve just read all the postings here between March 4th and 9th again, just to reminisce.... Oh, WHAT a happening it really was, a full size climax, and the postings were so wonderful, absolutely beautiful, love it how people started to �stutter� at the home front those days and write even CF wrong in the biggest excitement! And all the reports afterwards were so glowing, I see that I for one had so much to say that I couldn�t say much at all when I returned home, being so tired and not being able to sleep, and that huge experience whirling in my head like a circus, didn�t know if I was in pain r in heaven. That part of the topic is absolutely fabulous, please read it again ladies whenever you start forgetting that you actually saw him on stage, talked to him and he talked to you with that very familiar voice, even touched him. It�ll all come back to you in a flow. Those postings make me remember a thousand small but still so important details like the weather in the streets of London that day, and how it was to step in the Donmar the first time, how I stuffed my jacket under the seat, and the moment when He came from the wings in the darkness and walked across the stage, and I hardly could believe my eyes or breathe......and that incredible encounter in the foyer. I keep remembering all sorts of minor things like a wrinkle in his forehead and the dark damp hair in is neck when he autographed the program.......I wish I�ll never forget all that. SIGH (Sorry, I just HAD to go back to it again! Just for a moment.)

What a wonderful idea, Elena. Almost like having a videotape, but then we can all haul out our pictures and stare glassy-eyed at the Man himself.

(Elena)(Sorry, I just HAD to go back to it again! Just for a moment.) Don't apologize at all... it's wonderful to read your recollections from that night. These are the types of things that keep the boarding going and the drooling fresh!

(Elena)(Sorry, I just HAD to go back to it again! Just for a moment.) Drool on, Elena, please!

Gi, I was in Chat...still am as a matter of fact, I better hit reload soon...and I saw how you were describing your conversation with Colin...how you had to fit everything in to just a few moments. Where is that picture I saw of you talking with Colin? He's looking at you so intently, as if he's really hearing you. Did you get that feeling during the moment? Or is it all a blur? And Elena - you're in so many of those shots with Colin and John Boorman. You look like you're part of their conversation. Paparazzi who didn't know better might have thought you were Boorman's daughter or girlfriend (hmmmm) or better yet, Colin's girlfriend! I confess that I need to take a break from posting here occasionally. But it doesn't matter because there are always other people around to carry on. And I feed on that. Just when I'm getting tired, somebody else starts up something that I just have to comment on. It's regenerating.

But there are so many things I wish I had said to him that night..... Not questions...but to tell him how much his films have enhanced my life.. (Hey,I couldn't mention the thighs in the Donmar lobby... and besides...his weight loss hit the thighs, I'm afraid. Through my binocculars...they look pretty thin"-( Anybody want to share what they wish they could have told him. Gi did fine...he was really hanging on to every word she said...(while Antonio was next to me patiently waiting....the guy's a prince!)

I have been very busy with school, job, and family ,but I have read BJD(part1)and loved it. What is the Donmar experience? And really do miss the Colin FAQ site. That was the best way to keep up without searching so so many CF pages for information about movie releases and videos ect. Happy to see that you are all still working so hard. Thanks Donna...

I don�t usually Chat because I tend to get in trouble with the language, so I�ll just have to stay over here and possibly lose a vast amount of real tidbits every night! Please Gi, could you tell here what you said in chat about your conversation with Colin? I do remember you told about it in your report but maybe you didn�t repeat EVERY word??? Hello Donna, nice to see you. As an answer to your question, Colin performed in the play called Three Days Of Rain in the Donmar Warehouse theatre and quite many of us were in London to see it in March.

Hallo Donna, welcome, have you been here before occasionally? The Donmar experience - for some of us The Big Adventure - was going to London to meet each other and see Colin in the flesh, acting in Three Days of Rain at The Donmar Warehouse Theatre. Go back, as Elena just did, to the postings around March 6 to live it virtually. When we came back, we shared the experience with the ladies and gentleman who had not been able to go. The next weekend another group repeated the experience, and you can check those dates too...but some of them were more reserved in their r ports :-) (Heide)Gi...I saw how you were describing your conversation with Colin...how you had to fit everything in to just a few moments. Where is that picture I saw of you talking with Colin? He's looking at you so intently, as if he's really hearing you. Did you get that feeling during the moment? Or is it all a blur? Oh yes, I remember he was all there for me at that moment, and I talked quickly, fearing that his look would glaze and he'd start fidgeting...I was trembling a little, and trying to look calm and articulate. I told him about his fans coming from all over the world, and what a talented actor he is, and thought, he's heard this before and will again... (Evelyn)Gi did fine...he was really hanging on to every word she said...(while Antonio was next to me patiently waiting....the guy's a prince!) Thank you... Well, even if he'd heard it before, I hope it was ego-boosting to hear it again, and at that time, when he'd been slighted about SiL... As for Antonio patiently waiting: he even took pictures! And went to see SiL with me twice. He is a prince. The wedding is set for July 3; are we going to have my virtual bridal shower? :-)))))

Jana, Allison, Lucie, to become a member of the "springfolks" list you must accept the invitation I have sent you, by sending it back (hit "reply" button!)

Welcome Donna. Join in, ask more questions, we're a friendly bunch and love to talk about Colin in any way. Just give us an excuse, we'll dive in. (Gi) I told him about his fans coming from all over the world, and what a talented actor he is, and thought, he's heard this before and will again... I can't remember, Gi, did he say anything in response to this? Of course, he was probably stunned by all the attention he was receiving. People coming from all over the world must have blown his mind. Hmmm, would I even cross the street, let alone the pond, to see Ralph Fiennes?! ;-D are we going to have my virtual bridal shower? Absolutely!! We need an organizer or an organizing committee. This will be a gala event!

Hi Tineke (I remember you from RoP...) Stacy and Donna! As an exlurker and an old RoP member I can say that I found this place in the very beginning when the Drool branched form the RoP. Although I still like P&P2 and watch it every few month, discussing it started to bore me, while drooling over CF is still one of my favorites hobbies... So I exchanged RoP with Drool and lurked here for ages because I was shy and lazy until I came to realize that if everyone will be like me there won�t be any drool. I�m telling you this because I think we need to make this point clear to all the lurkers out there. If you like this place you should try to contribute something to it. Post just once in a while, but do post. Also, like Evelyn said I�m sure that there are lot of RoP members that will love this place. We should advertise it there. About SLOW, Bethan said it was sold to Israel, but I�m sorry to say that I've never heard of it (and I read all the cinema related articles very thoroughly...). I�ll be surprised if it was. We usually get just the blockbusters from US & UK.

From today's Variety. Harvey will probably want to cast ODB in the role of the dead husband. ;-p ************ 'Love' pair ponder 'Bounce' Roos to helm for Miramax By MICHAEL FLEMING, April 9, 1999 NEW YORK � Miramax Films is near deals to bring its �Shakespeare in Love� stars Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck aboard �Bounce,� a drama with romantic overtones to be directed this fall by Don Roos from his own script. Michael Besman and Steve Golin are the producers. Affleck is in talks to play a womanizer who gives up his seat on an airplane to a guy who wants badly to get home to his wife. After the plane crashes, the guy who gave up his ticket develops guilt over the other man�s death and becomes an alcoholic. One year later, he resolves to check up on the dead man�s widow. He slowly falls in love with her, and she eventually reciprocates, unaware that he provided the ticket that led to her husband�s early death. Paltrow, coming off her best actress Oscar win for �Shakespeare,� would play the widow. Miramax, which has become a magnet for Oscar-caliber films, was the recipient of a lucky bounce when the project, originally put together at Propaganda Films by its chairman Steve Golin, was put in limbo by Seagram�s purchase of Polygram. Golin worked with Miramax chairman Harvey Weinstein to move it over to Miramax. Miramax has made a habit of picking winners off the scrap heaps of other studios: Recent best picture Oscar winners �Shakespeare in Love� and �The English Patient� were both discarded by other studios before resurfacing with the Weinstein brothers. Golin remains in the thick of the project as producer with Michael Besman, the former TriStar exec who met Roos on the set of �Single White Female,� which Roos scripted. Besman produced Roos� most recent film, last year�s �The Opposite of Sex.� In a departure from what usually happens when actors end a true-life romance and find it uncomfortable to work together, Paltrow and Affleck have remained friendly, with Affleck even making a cameo appearance on �Saturday Night Live� when Paltrow hosted. Their breakup apparently hasn�t dampened their enthusiasm for teaming up again onscreen. Both Affleck and Paltrow are repped by CAA.

Renata' I haven't received an invitation yet.

Welcome all de-lurkers, lapsed ex-lurkers and all in between! This place is wonderful, isn't it -- and so very addictive:-) I had a thought that I wanted to run by everyone. Every Friday in the arts section of my local paper they give a little list of actors, musicians, etc. who are going to be online at certain days/times in various Internet chat places -- usually on Yahoo or AOL. Usually these are people who have a new film, CD or book out that they want to promote. For example, Ian McKellan recently did one of these online chats, and Paul McCartney famously did one a few months ago. What if we asked Colin to do a chat? (Have we ever asked him?) I don't mean on cf.com, but on one of these Yahoo/AOL chat things. He has two movies coming out in early summer, which would make him ripe for an online chat as a way to promote the films. And now that he knows first-hand the devotion of his legion of Internet fans, I would think he might be open to obliging us. Does anyone know how these Yahoo/AOL chats work? For example, does the actor's agent approach the site about doing a chat as a form of publicity, or does the site invite the person? Does this sound too far-fetched to be pursued? .

Oh dear -- in my previous message I hope it didn't sound as though I were putting down cf.com chat. What I meant is, these chats I see advertised in the paper seem to be at more well-known venues like Yahoo and AOL.

(Karen) Harvey will probably want to cast ODB in the role of the dead husband. ;-p LOL! Will he then be edited out of the final version (a la Kevin Costner in 'The Big Chill')? Appreciate the article. These days Miramax resembles a typical Hollywood studio moreso than an independent. Casting these two is further proof of that (what's up with BA and roles involving airplane crashes?). If Harvey wants to keep getting Oscars, he better not forget the fine character actors who make those "scrap he p" films a success. Welcome, Donna. Welcome back, Adi, Sue and Tineke. It's v. nice to see you posting :-)! Elena, what a wonderful memory. I'm with Winter--I love to hear (and re-hear) all the stories.

Whoops, almost forgot. Your idea is good, SusanMC. I'm afraid I'm clueless as to how these things work. I have a hunch ODB isn't very computer literate (probably can't type) but I'm sure such issues can be dealt with if indeed they exist.

Regarding these online chats with actors and writers, I would assume that a publicist arranges these. When Nick Hornby and Helen Fielding were on line from B&N, someone else did all the typing. It was pretty funny! All the typos. Person hadn't a clue had to spell Darcy in the Fielding chat session, and as I recall, Hornby wasn't even in the room; he might have been in California and he was getting the questions on the phone.

(Gi) The wedding is set for July 3; are we going to have my virtual bridal shower? :-))))) But of course:-) (Karen)We need an organizer or an organizing committee. This will be a gala event! And Karen....we do have a committee chair....Moon.Because she supplied the Dom Perignon for Colin's B'day and will bring it again, I hope. Anybody else who wishes to serve on the committee is welcome. I know Nan wants to be on it to.... **** Welcome to Donna ...and good to hear from Adi. This is a special place, guys, with lots of caring people.We like each other even when we quarrel:-)

Lucie, I have sent you an invitation twice, to aoftedahl@worldnet.att.net . I'll do it again. Look out for something from "eGroups".

Being one of those unfortunate people who missed out on going to see ODB in 3DOR, I cannot seem to hear enough about it either. I would really like to hear about CF's responses. Did he seem flattered by the idea of having so many international fans or was he just polite for appearance's sake? I believe it's important to sketch ODB's character as best we can, not just what is written in the media, but what we can derive from life... from personal encounters with him. Only being new to drool myself,does thi follow online etiquette (Or whatever it's called)? Discard it, it if doesn't...but don't exile me.Please!

Mannen, you will NEVER be exiled for asking about ODB!!! We love to hear about him over and over again. Unfortunately, I am as 3DoR deprived as you are, so we will wait patiently while the fortunate few Firth in the Flesh Followers post relevant information! Again, welcome =)

(Mannen) I believe it's important to sketch ODB's character as best we can, not just what is written in the media, but what we can derive from life... from personal encounters with him. Absolutely. Of course everybody has different ideas about him so you'll get a lot of argument...which can lead to a rousing discussion. Only being new to drool myself,does this follow online etiquette (Or whatever it's called)? Discard it, it if doesn't...but don't exile me Never! Miss Manners appreciates your caution but wild speculation amid excessive drooling will never land you in Timbuktu around here. By the way, most of the 3DOR encounters can be found in Topic 116 (now frozen because of a bunch of maniacs burning up the board). If my memory serves me right they start at about message #1630. One of my favorite memories of that weekend was the night we didn't go to the play. It was hearing Evelyn say very quietly, "There he is" as we waited at Belgo's for him to arrive at the theatre across the street. And there he was exiting from a cab, back turned to us but of course we knew that walk as he entered the Donmar. Still thrills me. Luckily there's even more to that story.

Heide, you're a dear for answering Mannen so quickly. I just HAD to post something to her lest she think that while the rest of the world is sleeping they are also rejecting her. We know better, and she will be rewarded in the morning with renewed drool and fervor. Thanks!

Renate, I have received no invitation either.

Welcome to all ex-lurkers, new-droolies etc! It's the new contributors who give the board renewed life and and enthusiasm. So don't feel shy! Adi, you were asking about SLOW and a release in Israel. I phoned Handmade Films (as did Evelyn also) a few times before their parent company went bankrupt, and as I have a dreadful memory I made notes in my "little black book". According to my notes, SLOW was edited in Toronto and was sold to BV International, Shani (what's that?), MGN Paradise (Russia), Behaviour (Canada), Scandinavia and Israel. But not to the USA or UK. All this was, of course, before the company went into receivership. A couple of years ago I was channel surfing and I saw Joseph Conrad's"The Secret Agent" on RAI UNO (Italian) dubbed in Russian with Italian sub-titles! At the time "The Secret Agent" had not been released in the UK...took another year or so! (Conrad is not very popular!!) So, there's always hope! On movie release dates....what gives with MLSF in the UK? I see that "An ideal husband" is opening here next week, and it doesn't open in the US until July. I suppose Cate Blanchett, Minnie Driver and Rupert Everett are hot property at the moment. The trouble is, in the UK, the movie distribution is almost exclusively targeted at the "Trainspotting generation". I think that Colin's target audience is naturally in television and he should do more TV work, which will automatically be seen by millions. Ot erwise we'll mostly see him in small cameos, tucked in behind the "big" Hollywood names/Oscar nominees, who are getting younger and younger! TV work (and theatre) could offer him more scope. What do you all think?

I absolutely agree Bethan, he should do much much more TV work, there are many good projects coming up. BTW Bethan is the BBC's forthcoming Mary Queen of Scots a feature film for the big screen or meant for the TV. I ask because I was thinking of writing to the BBC re DQ and thought I would also ask about two other projects I am interested in namely MQoS and The Forsyte Sage as it was rumoured a while ago that JE might play Fleur. Mannen in reply to your question about CF at the Donmar, all I can say isthat I was very impressed with the way he treated his fans, he was absolutely harming, patient and friendly. He happily posed for pictures and signed programmes and made sure everyone who wanted an autograph got one. Although he looks wonderful in all the fans' photographs I think he looks even better in "real-life", absolutely gorgeous and much younger than I had expected and his eyes are wonderful, he is also taller than I expected. As well as being the most wonderful and talented actor on the planet he is also the most gorgeous. I have never been a fan of any other celebrity, there is just something about t is man that makes one feel very loyal and devoted in a way I find hard to describe. Its strange fans are either very very taken with him as I am or just can't understand the attraction. Regardless of his looks however, it is his acting that really appeals to me he has such stage presence and I just love to see him act but it would be lovely to see his in a romantic leading man role. I'm sorry to repeat myself Renate but I haven't received an invitation either and I would love to become a member. Sorry th s is so long, haven't posted for a while.

Ann, I think that Mary Queen of Scots is a feature film...will cost �10million. And do write to the BBC! I'm going to email them again...he was voted most popular actor in 60 years of BBC TV, and then we never see him again! I was actually very pleased that he was doing DonQ, and hope that the BBC (or ITV...they seem stronger on drama) offer him more work. I don't find the "movie industry" in the UK much to my taste...and now that Jonathan Ross is doing Film 99 instead of Barry Norman, I've lost all hope!! There's also "The Lion in Winter" directed by Pat O'Connor (married to Mary Elizabeth Mastrioni(sp?)CF's co-star in MLSF)which has a terrific lead role, and for which I have my fingers crossed. But unfortunately it's all down to bankability...which is why TV seems a better option for him! Does he need a career advisor...I volunteer! :-) BTW last week I met someone who worked in Leeds on the production team for "Lost Empires", amongst other things. She no longer works in TV (is full-time mum). I actually asked her about CF! She sang his praises...said he was a very nice bloke, very warm and friendly, but rather shy and unassuming. She was delighted by his success as Darcy...said that he was a very fitting choice for the role. So there y'are!

Elena: first you have to send me an email so that I have your correct address. Only then I can send you the "invitation" which you have to return to get subscribed. This procedure goes for everybody else. For clarification: the "invitation" is a technical term only, and doesn't mean I make a choice. Every Firthfan who applies is welcome. Apparently Lucie and Allison don't succeed in subscribing, whatever the reason. Please try the following address, just send a brief note to: springfolks@egroups.com

Thankyou Bethan, I wholeheartedly agree with everthing you have said, more TV and I volunteer to be the advisor to the advisor.

(Bethan) On movie release dates....what gives with MLSF in the UK? Timely question! I have the preliminary press kit from Miramax, which contains pictures of the movie. The attached synopsis states that the movie opens in June of 1999. Nothing more specific as to dates. The trouble is, in the UK, the movie distribution is almost exclusively targeted at the "Trainspotting generation". Here too, although I have been reading articles (I remember one specifically from Roger Ebert from the Sundance Fest) trying to get a movement going to reverse this "dumbing down" approach. His premise was: exposing teen+ boys to better films might have a positive effect. Didn't you say that your son, Bethan, actually liked SiL? That was targeted at the "Trainspotting" crowd. But I do agree that Colin should do more television and stage work (which would mean we wouldn't see him much--boo hoo). (AnnW) there is just something about this man that makes one feel very loyal and devoted in a way I find hard to describe. Must have something to do with the amount of effort one has to go through in order to see his work! ;-) Because his body of work can be so difficult to obtain or his appearances are so few and far between you learn to savor each and every one. Other film actors (mainstream big stars) become commonplace. You see their pictures plastered everywhere. With Colin, seeing him act or seeing a photo in a magazine is like a national holiday. You want to set off fireworks! As an actor, he is definitely worth it. He is so rare. As a person, who we saw in the theater foyer thoroughly committed to satisfying each of his fan's wishes, I was impressed (especially when I contrast it to Charles Dance). I experienced no letdown whatsoever from having seen him in the flesh. He was all I expected and more. A very real person who made me tingle all over. (Bethan) She sang his praises...said he was a very nice bloke, very warm and friendly, but rather shy and unassuming. He was very young then. One of his earlier roles and this was quite a coup for him, landing a big miniseries, wouldn't you say?

Renate, go read the Three Deers email! Important message to all of you.

In the "So Close, Yet So Far" Department: a Firthless Three Days of Rain just began a monthlong run at the Boston Center for the Arts. Waaahhh!! Thanks to those who gave some insights on the AOL/Yahoo chat idea. I still think it could work -- I mean, Ian McKellan doesn't impress me as being the most computer-savvy person, and he just did one. It seems to me like the only way we'd ever be able to get answers to the questions *we* would really like Colin to answer -- for example, the great questions KJArt had posted recently re: how he came to choose 3DOR, etc. Also, questions about his future projects. These are things that never seem to make it in o interviews with Colin -- which, as a journalist, I find astonishing, since these are pretty basic questions. At least in an online chat, we'd get to ask questions that matter.

Bethan, Shani is an Israeli movie distribution company. I guess I'll have to wait and see but what does the bankruptcy of the parent company mean? Does legally Shani still have the rights to release the movie here? I think I'll give them a call. I also loved Barry Norman in Film 99. We get BBC world here and it was the only program I watched (besides the news). What is he doing now?

Ian McKellan actually runs his own website...he gave an interview in one of the PC/Internet mags, and he's very computer-literate! Susan, I agree with you that interviewers never ask CF the right questions..there's always too much personal stuff (which he deals with very politely) but rarely anything about career choices, roles he'd like to play, working in the theatre etc. Meant to add to my earlier posting re meeting someone who worked on "Lost Empires"...she also said that, unlike many actors (there are some she's not very keen on) he seemed totally unaware of his looks. She said some actors will only bother with people who matter, and ignore everyone else. But CF was always very pleasant with everyone, and was much liked by cast and crew.

(Karen) Must have something to do with the amount of effort one has to go through in order to see his work! It's even more difficult here. A film must do well at the US or UK box office, before it'll get released here. Well, a British film, that is. Most American movies get enough publicity and will get released no matter what. But distributors seem to forget that we don't necessarily like the same movies as Americans or Brits. I keep on being surprised when I read British and Belgian reviews for the same film. Only too often, the Brits would criticize a film that was praised to the skies by the Belgian press a d vica versa. So it's not because a film doesn't do well in the UK, that there's no audience for it here. I feel that the succes of film mainly depends on how much publicity it gets. Lots of excellent films are not given a fair chance! Colin is virtually unknown here, hence my surprise when the trailor for SiL mentioned CF third (made my day)! (Bethan).and now that Jonathan Ross is doing Film 99 instead of Barry Norman, I've lost all hope!! Is Jonathan Ross the same guy that does "Talking Movies" on BBC World? I've watched TM only twice so far (I was looking for a replacement for Film 98), but just can't stand the guy presenting it. I've yet to see Film 99 (I can't watch TV during the week, as I'm only home for the weekends). I'm seriously disappointed to see that Barry Norman is no longer doing it! There's no decent film magazine on Belgian TV, I depend on the BBC for my weekly film news.

Barry Norman nowadays presents a film review program on Sky TV. There are new Donmar pages in colinfirth.com Archives - go and see: http://www.firth.com/html/arch.htm

Thankyou Arami,. what a wonderful page, I particularly liked the "Impressions" page, now we won't have to scour the Drool Archives to read people's Donmar impressions, and how did Maria aznd Lizza get so close to get such wonderful photos and I particularly liked Maria's ones where he is wearing a leather jacket and smiling such a lot, what a winning smile. thanks again to the 3 Deers.

Does legally Shani still have the rights to release the movie here? I think I'll give them a call. (Adi) Please do, Adi! I'm a bit obsessive about SLOW, but I just can't accept that CF can make a romantic $5million movie, and we're not even given the chance to see it. And at the same time, we're inundated with movies I wouldn't cross the road see, not even if you gave me ten free tickets and paid me for my time!! A film must do well at the US or UK box office, before it'll get released here.Well, a British film, that is. Most American movies get enough publicity and will get released no matter what. But distributors seem to forget that we don't necessarily like the same movies as Americans or Brits. (Tineke) Good point, Tineke. A movie's success often depends on publicity and hype, and a lot of good small films go unnoticed. And, to repeat a point I'm always making, the distributors mainly cater for the youth market, and I think this is having a disastrously dumbing down effect. If SLOW is about a young boy looking for a father figure, or a man attracted by the "innate goodness" in a woman, it really doesn't stand a chance!! Throw in some blinding special effects and a deafening soundtrack, and you may have winner1 :-) There are new Donmar pages in colinfirth.com Archives - go and see: Well done, Arami and co! I love the "Impressions"...will have to return to read at my leisure. And the photos! Talk about in yer face candid shots...and he still looks fine! Is that a scar from the stereo speaker do-it-yourself attempt?

Thanks to Lizza for depositing her photos in the firth.com Archives.

I just visited the new 3DOR site. The pictures and comments are wonderful. There is one picture that I especially enjoyed, a picture of CF's incredible eyes. His eyes were mentioned by several fans as being so incredibly beautiful and intensive that when he looks at you, you feel that it is just you and him that matter at that moment. I feel truly envious of those of you who were fortunate enought to be there in person. P.S. I wrote a codicil to the end of P&P, a sort of wedding night story, and I would like to know the procedure for posting it at Fan Fic.

A codicil, huh? Will have to check my law books for that one or maybe the Tax Reform Act of 1998. Susan, we have no procedures for posting at Fan Fic. All we ask is that it concerns fictional characters of the Jane Austen variety (although other Firth films are now acceptable) and is not clinically explicit. If you've been reading Fan Fic, you'll know how far you can go. The "how to" is easy. Just copy and paste your story in the box and submit away. How's that. A governmental employee could never have done this under 600 pages of instructions! :)

I used the word "codicil" to convey the meaning of a small attachment, not a legal one of course.

Oh, and thank you Karen R. for the information on how to go about submitting our writings.

Three Deers, thanks so much for the lovely Donmar archives. Love those pics! I can almost imagine I was there. So lovely to see so many people drooling away. Sorry I've been too silent lately - too much life overload. I did manage to squeeze in a Darcy fix today however :-)

Great stuff 3deers. We are all "blown away" by th

Whoops Sunday morning madness at work. AS I WAS SAYING, What a stunning combination of pics and words. A wonderful host of images for a very special , unique moment in our lives. As Elena said it just brings it all back in a flood of emotion, and leaves me trembling at the keyboard!!! Thanks for all your hard work in giving us such a stunning scrapbook to enjoy. I particularly like the contrast between the two saturday nights (6th and 13th) in terms of the photos. Subtle differences re clothing etc. I can tell I shall be visiting daily for my fix (ONLY once a day I hear you all cry!!)

I hope that I didn't give the impression of waxing lyrical about that page only for those who were at 3DOR. It was those of you at drool who gave us an audience after our return that really heightend the whole "adventure" and for me anyway, enhanced the whole experience by your excitement and wonderful responses to what we posted.Now to me it feels like we were all there anyway!!! Mannen, I hope you will be able to gain some further insights into ODB, through this page and like us become more ensnared by his talent and other more obvious charms!!

I want to thank for the Donmar pages too. The Miracle at Earlham Street section is a great idea, and I really wish that Colin could read it. What a condensation of love, gratitude, admiration and WORSHIP! I�m sure he�d like it. Great leather jacket in Maria�s pics. And I�m curious enough to wonder what he carried in that black plastic bag, probably a gift from someone. And he obviously didn�t wet his hair as much on the 12th as he did the previous Saturday. Beautiful. But under the strong lights on stage his hair wasn�t as black as it looks like in all the photos, I remember it was more like reddish brown. Lizza, thanks for the pics! Did you really push your camera that close?:-)....btw, drooling at work is one of my regular sins too.

Is there such a thing as Picture Overload? If the subject is Colin, probably not. :) Great Donmar addition to cf.com - the pictures and the excerpts! Thank you, 3Deers (and Kirsten) and Lizza. Great job. Now, for something completely differently... My Life So Far

WOW! Great work Karen. And he looks wonderful in MLSF, seems to me that this movie is going to be very droolable.....I just hope I�ll be able to see it somewhere during the next millenium. Btw, Irene Jacob looks strangely like Livia in that pic with Malc McD, doesn�t she?

Great stuff Karen, you are certainly keeping the drool level topped up for us I wish we knew when our release date was, maybe a quick appearance as a presenter at tonight's awards would cheer us up , but that I doubt. A few scenes of Wessex is all that I ask, here's hoping!! Thanks again Karen, we are counting on you to get the "kilted shots" nearer the time!!!

Just doing my job (and lovin' every minute of it)! If no kilt, will ridiculous bathing costume suffice? What time do the BAFTA's start? Are your VCRs ready just in case DB is there to join in the celebration when SiL wins or to be a presenter (doubt that one)? People and the press really enjoyed the camaraderie at the Oscars when the screenwriter from Gods & Monsters won and the three stars (McKellen, Redgrave and Fraser) all were whooping it up and hugging each other. Maybe the SiL cast will perform a similar "propriety-be-damned" celebration across the pond, where most of them are anyway. (Poor Judi, ow she has to fly back to London for these awards. I want her frequent flyer miles!)

Karen, it's 9-10.30pm our time. I will set the vid, but it is along shot I think that he will make an appearance. Still a quick "goatee fix" will do me fine. Back to that swimming costume that you mentioned, would that be on e of those delightfully old fashioned ones made of wool by any chance? Can't wait!!!!!

Well it could be more fun ( and quicker) than waiting to discover what an Englishman, reputed to drink nescafe and travel by tube, keeps undrneath his kilt! We are counting on you to relieve our suspense before June!!!

(Lizza) Back to that swimming costume that you mentioned, would that be one of those delightfully old fashioned ones made of wool by any chance? Yes and I'm not looking forward to seeing this one. They look horrible on every actor who has ever worn one that I recall. Would have much preferred how it was done in the book: he skinny-dipped in the cold pond every morning!

(Karen) All we ask is that it ...is not clinically explicit. LOL!! Sorry I edited you but I love your way with words. (Lizza) Back to that swimming costume that you mentioned, would that be one of those delightfully old fashioned ones made of wool by any chance? (Karen) Yes and I'm not looking forward to seeing this one. They get all saggy in the bottom don't they. Yech. I'd much prefer the au naturel look as well. But thanks for sending us the photos via your page. You're getting quite adept, my dear. I'm afraid this will have to sustain quite a lot of us for awhile since I doubt this small film will make it to small-town America let alone Finland, Portugal, Israel, Australia, etc. for a very long time. And thanks, 3 Deers for alerting us to your new pages. The pictures are terrific - it's amazing how you can make those close-ups so clear. I'm jealous I didn't get to see that leather jacket up close. Lizza, would you mind letting the girls here know about your recent return trip to the Donmar? I found your description very interesting.

Hi, as well as Karen's lovely photos of MLSF, Murph has some more on her Appreciation page, they have really whetted my appetite, can't wait to see it, I particularly like the photo on the front page.

Also mean't to say I will be recording the Bafta's as well, just in case!!

I wish I could remember what YDB was wearing when I saw this film...but the world was a duller place then, and I didn't know of the Firthettes or their incessant drooling. If pressed, I'd say he skinny-dipped, but perhaps that was only his sons. As another Englishman with a kilt, worn only for reeling, I can tell you that I keep plenty underneath even for Burns night in London, let alone some freezing castle in the Highlands. Knowing too what the cold can do to a man's pride and joy, I'm surprised Scotswomen were ever impressed (or sharp-eyed) enough, upon lifting said kilt, to keep the race going.

Ben come on dig deep in that memory,re skinny dipping we know YOU can do it!!! Remember john Castle etc

(Karen) All we ask is that it ...is not clinically explicit. (Heide) Sorry I edited you but I love your way with words. I think you all know what I mean: See Dick. See Spot. See Dick pet Spot. See Jane jump. See Dick climb hill. See Dick fall on hill. See Jane cry. See Dick smoke cigarette and go home. (Don't think this qualifies for archive status.) ;-)

I'm sorry I can't watch it, (the BAFTA's that is), no sign of Colin or Wessex and Johathan Ross the Master of Ceremonies, is driving me mad with his stupid jokes, why oh why did they not pick someone with a bit of class like Clive James, Michael Parkinson or Barry Norman. What did you think Bethan and Allison and Lizza. BTW Evelyn, I was thinking that possibly JE will be at the Premiere of MLSF should her mother be attending, the first time we have seen CF & JE together since the 1996 BAFTA Awards.

Cate Blanchett has won Best Actress and Roberto Benigni(?) best actor and still no Wessex!!

Wow, Maria and Lizza, those pics are fantastic!! And I love the excerpts from everyone's experiences. Bravo all around! Karen, thanks for the MLSF link. I really hope this movie doesn't get lost in the Phantom Menace tidal wave. Bethan, thanks for setting me right regarding Ian McK. My fault for judging a book by its cover;-)

At last we see Wessex!! SIL won Best Picture but overall Elizabeth was the winner with 5 Awards 4 to SIL.

(Ben)Knowing too what the cold can do to a man's pride and joy, I'm surprised Scotswomen were ever impressed (or sharp-eyed) enough, upon lifting said kilt, to keep the race going. LOL, Ben!!! Only another male could give us that prospective. The furry Sporran did not do much to allay the chill, I gather. Should have worn them under the kilt! As for the women of Scotland, they are a practical sort, if my grandmother was a good example. Waste not, want not. Make do with what you have, and all that ;)

Didn't watch the BAFTAs, Ann. I was 100% convinced that Colin wouldn't be there (sensible man!)and wouldn't figure much in the clips. And I can't stand Jonathan Ross. I also think that the whole affair is a terrible anti-climax after the Oscars...should have stayed combined with the TV awards. MLSF...did he or did he not skinny dip? I remember a magazine article which described a scene when he had to jump into the freezing loch (Scottish lochs are terr-r-aibly cold) and he was definitely wearing a 30s style swimsuit. Maybe he'll be the first man in the history of the cinema to look half-way decent in a clingy wet body-hugging woollen swimsuit. Mmmmm? Am looking forward to seeing MLSF. It will be so nice to see him in a leading role again (long overdue)....and not a Fiennes brother in sight!! Yes, beware the Phantom Menace...but then there must be some people out there who don't give a toss about Star Wars (me!!). Oh, and yes, the beautiful Irene Jakob does resemble Livia (or vice versa).

Thanks Maria and Lizza for the great pictures. I like the way he smiles with his eyes. So often I have seen stars give a big smile but when you look at their eyes you can tell that they are just putting on a face for the public. He looks like he is really enjoying himself. Does anyone know if his sister was there at all. From the way he talks about her in interviews it sounds like they are very close.

I�m just back from the Turks & Caicos and catching up with all the posts. I don�t believe there will ever be a dull moment here, we just like to chat too much! Welcome newbies! Thanks Arami for more 3DOR and Karen for MLSF. Karen, how is your new computer behaving? I would be very happy to organize Gi�s wedding shower, of course the Don Perignon will overflow. I will need to set a date in early June as I will be leaving for Italy at the end of June. Is that agreeable to all? BTW, Gi, have you planned your honeymoon yet? Umbria is such a beautiful region. :-D I plan to read about the Baftas on the E. Telegraph later, but I must say that I was surprised that E won more than SIL. E has major flaws, SIL well you know, it�s practically perfect. Kids are back in school today, maybe he was still in LA with Will, although the way the Baftas have changed does sound rather dull, can�t blame him for staying away. A long vacation in LA may lead to signing other film deals�one can only hope. Unfortunately, I will not be able to join Renate�s CF list. If my (�You shall have no other God but me�), DH were to read it he would be very angry. I hope you will still keep me informed through �groups� I could not bare to miss out on any Firth related tid-bit.

Moon, glad you are back and hope you had a good time and, yes, computer is behaving well, thank you. Early June would be nice for Gi's virtual shower, sufficient time for me to pick out a new virtual outfit. Gi, have you "registered"? About the new list, Moon, there are options. You don't have to receive email. You can go to the site and read the posts there, just like you do for this site. Give me a call.

The full list of winners for the 51st British Academy Film Awards, in association with Orange, was: Best Film - Shakespeare in Love. The David Lean Award for best achievement in direction - Peter Weir (The Truman Show). Best Screenplay (original) - The Truman Show (Andrew Niccol) Best Screenplay (adapted) - Primary Colors (Elaine May). Best Actress - Cate Blanchett (Elizabeth). Best Actor - Roberto Benigni (La Vita e Bella) Best Supporting Actress - Dame Judi Dench (Shakespeare in Love). Best Supporting Actor - Geoffrey Rush (Shakespeare in Love). Best Film not in English - Central Do Brasil. The Anthony Asquith Award for achievement in film music - Elizabeth (David Hirschfelder). The Carl Foreman Award for newcomer in British film - Richard Kwietniowski. Best Cinematography - Elizabeth (Remi Adefarasin). Best Production Design - The Truman Show (Dennis Gassner). Best Costume Design - Velvet Goldmine (Sandy Powell). Best Editing - Shakespeare in Love (David Gamble). Best Sound - Saving Private Ryan. Best Special Effects - Saving Private Ryan. Best Make-up/Hair - Elizabeth (Jenny Shircore). Best Short Film - Home. Best Short Animated Film - The Canterbury Tales. The Orange Audience Award - Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. The Academy Fellowship - Elizabeth Taylor. The Michael Balcon Award for outstanding British contribution to cinema - Michael Kuhn. The Alexander Korda Award for outstanding British film - Elizabeth.

For those who may like to know who the winners were. E for Best Cinematography was way off. Spielberg must be quite put out, he really did want the awards for SPR. Ann, Bethan or Jana, do any of you know who votes for the Baftas? I'm happy for Sandy Powell she is the best costume designer. She also did SIL and I've been a fan ever since Orlando, a film I love.

Thank you, Arami et. al for the wonderful 3DOR pics and Impressions page. It's great to have the memories consolidated and accessible. I cherish all the pictures I've seen but there's something about those up on top...the top left must have been when he saw the person he knew. Thanks for the close up of those delighted (and delightful) eyes! Thanks, Karen, for the MLSF pics. (Bethan)and not a Fiennes brother in sight!! LOL! (SusanMC) I really hope this movie doesn't get lost in the Phantom Menace tidal wave. Or the 'Notting Hill' tidal wave, which is being promo'd as the best alternative to PM. We know better. (Moon) I�m just back from the Turks & Caicos Lucky you! Unfortunately, I will not be able to join Renate�s CF list. Here's 2 potential solutions which Nan and Gi suggested (I'm in a similar DH situation): 1) open another e-mail account at Hotmail or Yahoo. It's free and you can keep the password to yourself. I chose this option. 2) Subscribe to the list but modify your subscription so that you read the posts on-line at egroups.com instead of via e-mail. Like e-mail, you set up the 'ac ount' with your own sign-on and password so it's private. All you'll need for either option is more time to spend at the computer to read the posts. Barbara, Vicky, or any one else from the list who's potentially lurking...please feel free to post! If I may take the liberty of speaking for everyone else here--we'd love to have you.

Heide, Helena has just sent me her Donmar photos and I just love the ones of you and you know who, you must be very pleased, and thankyou Helena for sending them to me, I think they are some of the best ones of have seen of Colin.

(Moon Dreams)I would be very happy to organize Gi�s wedding shower, of course the Don Perignon will overflow. I will need to set a date in early June as I will be leaving for Italy at the end of June. Is that agreeable to all? BTW, Gi, have you planned your honeymoon yet? Umbria is such a beautiful region. :-D (Karen)Early June would be nice for Gi's virtual shower, sufficient time for me to pick out a new virtual outfit. Gi,have you "registered"? Thanks for volunteering, Moon, it's bound to be a great party! Early June will be fine for me. Don't set the atual date yet, though, because I might be on duty...I'll know in mid-May. We haven't decided on the honeymoon yet, but Italy, my best loved country, is a possibility. No, Karen, I have not registered (nor have I in "real" life, and that's a "real" problem), but I just thought I might at P&P2...great tableware, linens, everything, what do you say? :-) And virtual outfits! That's fantastic! I'm already having so much fun at the idea I can but suggest we prepare this party at 110, if it's not frozen, and use that topic for all future parties.What do you all think?

BAFTA awards: does it look to you as if they gave "alternative prizes", I mean, to those films who had not won at the Oscars, unless they really had no choice?

News..of a kind. Reading about the BAFTAs, Harvey was there with Gwynnie (I'm sure Colin wasn't there ..must be filming in Scotland). In an interview, Harvey said that he really wanted to do a sequel to SIL, and left to himself he'd do it but he had to talk to the others first. Whateever the merits/demerits of a sequel, I'll bet there is one ...unlike "Titanic" and "TEP" the main protaganists are still alive! I just hope they don't write Wessex out...did he survive? I always thought the final shipwreck scenes were Shakesp are's dreams not reality. Anyway, food for thought... But if Viola is widow of independent means returning to England, there's no plot (Shakespeare takes a mistress...yawn!) - she needs a jealous, avenging (and hopefully very, very rich from those Virginian plantations) live husband! Also, there's a new paperback edition of Sir Denis Forman's "Son of Adam" scheduled for publication (was January 1999) sub-totled "My Life So Far". Obviously the movie tie-in.

If anyone here is thinking of getting ATA, released here today, they may encounter some problems!! After being promised a copy I went to buy it and was told "Well we are not stocking it after all." Calls to 4 other major suppliers revealed the same story. It has to be ordered. Do you have these problems in the States? I suppose we wouldn't be so devoted if we didn't have to overcome these obstacles but pursuit of droolheaven can be needlessly frustrating sometimes.

BAFTA was almost devoid of "goatee glimpses", the national news actually had more of Wessex!! A colleague of mine said today that her son was "waiting on table" there last night so if any relevant gossip filters down , I will pass it on. A very pale imitation of the "Real thing". Still Johnathan took a few swipes at Islington and its residents, come back Barry , we miss you!!

Saw an interesting if slightly patronising and definitely unoriginal short article in The Tatler today re The Donmar being beseiged by women of a certain age abandoning "their volvo's" and something else for a sight of Colin Firth. I will post the exact article later, didn't have time to buy it, it also said something to the effect that the booking office at the Donmar had nicknamed these ladies as Friends of Firth, very original. Still at least someone noticed that Colin has fans aplenty.

(Bethan) Harvey said that he really wanted to do a sequel to SIL NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! (I'm not shooting the messenger) The further adventures of young Will Shakespeare as he writes the rest of his plays and few more sonnets?? Also, there's a new paperback edition of Sir Denis Forman's "Son of Adam" scheduled for publication (was January 1999) sub-totled "My Life So Far". Obviously the movie tie-in. (she laughs heartily) like that's going to help the movie!! Bethan, is it being released by Hyperion (or another Disney subsidiary)? (Lizza) Do you have these problems in the States? ATA was initially released in the States at a very high cost. Many of us got our copies as previously viewed rentals. I picked up a couple (in excellent condition) at my local video store for about $6 or $7 I think. There are still some around for even less!! I don't know what a new one costs, but they are readily available at stores and through internet shopping. Oh Ann, that is a riot. Why must we always be labeled "women of a certain age." I suppose it would have been a nonissue if he had been beseiged by under-twentysomethings!! Please post as soon as you can from the Tatler.

LOL, Ann...I'm still chuckling. Ladies, where did you abandon your Volvos? Poor Colin, I hope he doesn't read the Tatler. Hopefully he is in Scotland. Welcome back Moon! Do follow Eileen and Karen's suggestion.

(Karen)Why must we always be labeled "women of a certain age." I suppose it would have been a nonissue if he had been beseiged by under-twentysomethings!! Think of it this way. Brandy and cheeses get better with age. Do we not mellow also? Have more compassion? Or is it just *passion*?! It is better than being of uncertain age or of no age at all! Now, I'll go blow out the candles on my cake before the house burns down =P Does anyone else have a problem with the "clear" button being where the "submit" button used to be? $^&%^&$#%...this is my second attempt to post this!

The more I think about his having to wear an itchy woolen swimming suit, the more I find to be disheartened about. I believe what Ben said about the chill weather in Scotland and its effects on the male endowments. Can you imagine what a plunge into water that cold would do to them?! To appalling to think on. And so little reason to drool! =P

Thank you dear genies behind the scene for rearranging the submit and clear buttons! Love you for that!!!

(Marcia) Now, I'll go blow out the candles on my cake before the house burns down =P Have we missed a birthday celebration? BTW, is there an extinguisher close by? Too funny. Does anyone else have a problem with the "clear" button being where the "submit" button used to be? Yeah, hard to teach us old dogs new tricks. ;-) his having to wear an itchy woolen swimming suit...I believe what Ben said about the chill weather in Scotland and its effects on the male endowments. No wonder the suits get all baggy?!

(Karen)No wonder the suits get all baggy?! LOL! I never figured it out till you presented it this way. So those suits are form-fitting until he hits the water. Pray for lots of footage of him basking on the rocks before he gets wet! The candles were metaphorical. My BD is not till the last day of May.

All right... Fine... I am behind yet again. What have I missed about Scotland and baggy swimsuits? I figured I've missed something huge. (Or not,if we're discussing ice water.) (I'm not very computer literate, so can someone tell me how, or tell me where to find out how to get the italic thing going?) Anyway about 'women of a certain age', I didn't get to go to 3DOR myself, but I am one of the few under-twenty-something CF fans, and I really think they shouldn't stereotype so much. Who cares what the age of his fans are? I think I speak on behalf of most doolers when I say we are all as sincere and devoted as each other, no matter what our ages.

Mannen, here's a great place to learn: Ann's Basic HTML Tag Tutorial

Gi, I spoke with Karen and she suggested using the Odds&Ends Topic for your Bridal Shower. If early June is a bad time maybe we can do it at the end of May, let me know. I have already started interviewing caterers and am receiving a special shipment of my favorite Dom Perignon Vintage '82. All the rush for the millenium celebration has made it very difficult to obtain. :-)) Renate, I have registered at egroups and would like to read the messages and not get the emails, but I did not see any obtion to do so. Also what is the correct heading of the group I should look for, or search for?

To our British friends; do any of you know who votes for the Baftas? I am still baffled at all the awards Elizabeth received. Marcia, my fellow Gemini, I believe a party is in order.;-)

I'm kind of surprised "Truman Show" won so many BAFTAs (best screenplay over SiL?!). Was it a big hit over there? Potential new source of CF news: I read an entertainment snippet saying that Miramax is launching a new magazine called "Talk" in August.

(Karen)Why must we always be labeled "women of a certain age." I suppose it would have been a nonissue if he had been beseiged by under-twentysomethings!! Bear with them for they know not better... In truth, it is probably less strange to see under-twentysomethings drooling before their favourite actor than it is to see ladies of a certain age do it :-) Do they wonder why it happens? (Mannen) What have I missed about Scotland and baggy swimsuits? I figured I've missed something huge. (Or not,if we're discussing ice water.) LOL! Mannen, Colin is supposed to be in Scotland shooting his new movie. The baggy swimsuit is expected to make its appearance in MLSF when it is finally released. (Marcia)And so little reason to drool! =P (Karen)No wonder the suits get all baggy?! Ye women of little faith! He'll look great even in woolen swimsuits :-) (Moon Dreams)Gi, I spoke with Karen and she suggested using the Odds&Ends Topic for your Bridal Shower. If early June is a bad time maybe we can do it at the end of May, let me know. End of May or early June are fine, as is Odds & Ends (have to look for that one) (Moon Dreams)Marcia, my fellow Gemini, I believe a party is in order.;-) Party season! :-)))

Moon: It is "Springfolks" When you go to egroups.com, you will see the list(s) to which you belong, number of messages and "mode of something." That can be changed via a drop-down list to "visit website." Keep looking around at the site. You will find it.

(Bethan) Harvey said that he really wanted to do a sequel to SIL (KarenR)NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! My sentiments exactly. Leave well enough alone, Harvey! (Just one more example that Miramax is more big Hollywood and less independent). Can't wait to see that Tatler article, Ann (what sharp eyes you have, my dear!). The Donmar's laughing all the way to the bank about "Friends of Firth." If we were predominantly undertwentysomethings we'd be over at Leo's web sites (you are to be praised on your cultivated taste in actors, Mannen ;-)). IMO Colin would probably appreciate a bit more gender balance in his fans. Moon, even if you change to viewing messages at the egroups site, you'll get an occasional email (I think it's biweekly) letting you know there are messages to read. You can turn this off too but it's in a different place than mode (to which Karen refers). It may be in "modify subscription."

(Eileen) IMO Colin would probably appreciate a bit more gender balance in his fans. I agree. But men would not travel across an Ocean to see an actor, or actress, they admire.(With the possible exception of Ben for Miss Ehle ;-))

Thanks Eileen, I have already taken care of the bi-weekly email, I just don't know what group to look for? There is no CF to log on to. I hope Renate can help. Ann, I too look forward to the Tatler article.

Welcome back, Moon! I'm quite jealous of your jaunt to the Caribbean. (Moon) A long vacation in LA may lead to signing other film deals Hmmmm, and a possibiltiy for more sitings by we West-Coasters :-)! (Moon) E for Best Cinematography was way off I totally agree, Moon. The BAFTA voters actually thought that all those disorienting overhead shots were worthy of a prize? And I kept screaming to myself "TURN THE LIGHTS ON!" (although maybe that dark look was the lighting director's fault :-)) (Mannen) but I am one of the few under-twenty-something CF fans OK, that does it. Next time CF appears in a play we put Mannen front and center. At least for the Tatler's benefit, anyway :-)

(Jana) Next time CF appears in a play we put Mannen front and center. Heehee, I suppose I could sit next to her since I'm 20. I don't think Colin has a reason to complain about his fans. He's got fans from all over the world, from all age groups. As for the gender...I'm sure there are man who admire Colin as an actor, but we can't expect them to drool over him the way we do;-)

Firstly ladies, I hope you won't be disappointed this article (I should have said snippet) is very small and I more or less said it all, not quite the right wording though but I will still post it as it is in The Tatler. Secondly Moon, according to my 1996 BAFTA Awards book, and I quote (re who votes for the Awards). the Members vote for th Awards - "The voting lists for both the Film & Television Awards are compiled from suggestions put forward be Academy members throughout the year with the broadcastin companies having the opportunity to add programmes to the final members' list in the television categories. Members then vote directly to select the Best Film and all the Film and Television Performance Awards. In the Production and Craft categories, the winner is selected by peer-group juries" (not sure who makes up the Members?) Does that help?!!

(Moon) I just don't know what group to look for? There is no CF to log on to. Do a search for Springfolks. Remember what I said I would do for you, it's there. Look around. ;-)

Party time, for sure: Bridal showers and Gemini babies. How much better can it get. When do we start, and is virtual food fattening?! As for that itchy woolen bathing suit, it is not little faith I am worried about. It is little to observe...and you know how eager we are to slo-mo our way through his movies to catch as much of the Fantastic Firth as possible! It is not good for appendages to dissappear up into the body cavity due to excessively cold water =P

CF to return to LA for an extended vacation? There's a thought. Jana, to the Firthmobile! Time to hit the streets of SanMo before it's too late! ;-) BTW- yesterday morning I saw a Firth-like man driving away from University Elem. School, right by UCLA. It's a private school where Hollywood types are known to bus their children. Toussled brown hair, wvy, same complexion, but driving a Jaguar. NAH! couldn't be him. Heehee, I suppose I could sit next to her since I'm 20. Mannen and Tineke-- I still qualify, so I can join you two front and center as well. And BTW-- I drove a Volvo when I was 16, so Tatler can just shove it. I've decided to be ruthless about some of my belongings, as I clean out my apt. and prepare to move next month. I have a stack of magazines with Colin Firth articles/pictures (Elle, Vogues, etc etc) as far back as 1997. Jeremy Northam stuff as well. Anyone want them? Email me.

(winter) CF to return to LA for an extended vacation? There's a thought. Jana, to the Firthmobile! I am LMAO!! I got this mental picture of you and I crusing around town in leather outfits with the top down (top of the convertible, that is!) Although that thought makes me wonder if the overwhelming sight of le Firth could compel one to lower one's own top. Hmmmm - winter, I shall count on you to supply the decorum ;-).

Something exquisitely titillating has struck the ladies of Drool, and what a fine thing it is to see. So many happy thoughts, top down, over exposure...what shall The Tattler say about that!

I had the color slides from My Life So Far's press kid printed and rescanned them. The page can now be found at: My Life So Far Haven't a clue where the white stuff came from on the bottom pic; will have to fix it later.

(Jana)Hmmmm - winter, I shall count on you to supply the decorum ;-). Me? Decorum? ;-) Oh... fine! But Victoria's Secret just mailed out a new catalogue, and there were so many things I had in mind for the occasion :-D (Marcia)Something exquisitely titillating has struck the ladies of Drool, and what a fine thing it is to see. So many happy thoughts, top down, over exposure...what shall The Tattler say about that! What can we do? It's Spring! No...but in all seriousness, I wouldn't go further than asking him for an autograph, if the opportunity were to come up. I have way too much respect for his privacy to be doing anything more than what a perfect stranger would ask of him. Esp. after seeing him last December.

BAFTA awards: does it look to you as if they gave "alternative prizes", I mean, to those films who had not won at the Oscars, unless they really had no choice? BAFTA awards: Fooey....(the sound you hear is a resounding Bronx Cheer) I'd concur with their ecstasy over "Elizabeth" if I hadn't been in London in October when "There's Something About Mary " was the rave (no kidding) and "Elizabeth" was ignored. Dark and Dull film, IMO. How could they overlook Tom Stoppard and the great SIL soundtrack.I hope those guys emigrate to this side of the pond where we appreciate them. *** Karen...great MLSF page...(didn't I tell ya' that this girl has talent we haven't even seen yet!!) ****** (Marcia)Pray for lots of footage of him basking on the rocks before he gets wet! No, no, no, Marcia....we want him basking on the rocks afterhe gets wet :-)) .

(AnnW), In the Production and Craft categories, the winner is selected by peer-group juries" (not sure who makes up the Members?) Does that help?!! Thanks Ann. I can't imagine other cinematographers voting for E over SPR, SIL or even the Truman Show. I must agree with Evelyn, "How could they overlook Tom Stoppard and the great SIL soundtrack.I hope those guys emigrate to this side of the pond where we appreciate them." It is a jealousy issue,IMO. ( Winter), Toussled brown hair, wvy, same complexion, but driving a Jaguar. NAH! couldn't be him. Maybe he was borrowing Meg's car. :-) What can we do? It's Spring! And love is in the air! Karen, I did manage the Springfolks afterall thanks. You made it easier. Love the MLSF pix.

(Gi) But men would not travel across an Ocean to see an actor, or actress, they admire Unless they are saintly and devoted husbands, boyfriends or fiances of devoted fans. I suspect you know somebody who falls into that category! (Winter) Jana, to the Firthmobile! Keep those eyes open, ladies 8-D! (Moon) Maybe he was borrowing Meg's car. :-) That's exactly what I thought! But he's as likely to be in Scotland now as he is in LA. I'd rather see him working than taking another extended vacation, selfish thing that I am ;-)

Okay, so I just spoke to my mother on the phone, and as expected something was wrong with the video! She didn't tape Nostromo! I knew it, I knew it!! *grabs hair* It's not my mother's fault though. What is it with our video that each time ODB comes on TV, it refuses to record? The same thing happened with Circle of Friends. The only time our video did tape a CF film was when ARTE showed Another Country. It was dubbed in French so I gave up watching after half an hour.

Tineke, you are very welcome to borrow my PAL copy of Nostromo if you would like to email me. I though he looked gorgoeus in it, loved the beard and moustache, don't mind moustaches with beards but don't like moustaches on their own, hope he doesn't sport a moustache in DQ.

(Gi) But men would not travel across an Ocean to see an actor, or actress, they admire (Eileen)Unless they are saintly and devoted husbands, boyfriends or fiances of devoted fans. Which supports my point, because the men in those categories did not travel to see an actor, but to be with their significant others :-)

I just found this on Murph's Corner and plan to call tomorrow. I urge others to do the same. Fever Pitch will be released by Phaedra Films in the USA. Write, or fax, or call to let them know you want to see it in YOUR city: Roseann CherensonSr. VP, Distribution & Acquisitions Phaedra Cinema5455 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1403Los Angeles, CA 90036 Tel: (323) 938-9610 Fax: (323) 938-9731 BTW I read in the newspaper that : The Women's World Cup Soccer Tournament will be held this summer in seven US cities...and has sold more than 300,000 tickets already. 30,000 tickets have been sold for the final game in Pasadena , Calif. on July 10th. Coincidental that "Fever Pitch " will be preemed on July 6th....hmmmmmm? Good strategy...Phaedra!!Go Paul Ashford!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I thought the premiere was on July 9th...not that it matters, but I just happened to remember that b/c it's my b-day. (what a treat!)

Ooooh, CF on the big screen on your birthday. Now that's what I call a present!

Just discovered that the CF chat is listed in the Yahoo directory when you make a search. I think it cannot have to do with the trouble in chat recently because the entry appeared not when I was there last time, which was 2 days ago. Be prepared for some visitors - of the nice kind I hope! ;-) If they are not nice, I recommend to leave chat immediately (all!) and go to these boards or to springfolks or private email for a while, and only return much later. If no one's there, there's no fun for the trolls, and they will loose interest. BTW, anyone who tried to apply to springfolks but did not get a reply from me yet, please send me an email. I'm not sure if I didn't lose some addresses. Thanks.

My husbands cancer surgery went very well. The doctor says he is clean and clear.

Lucie, I'm so glad for you and your husband! Thanks for sharing with us. This is indeed a year for good news!

(Renate) Just discovered that the CF chat is listed in the Yahoo directory when you make a search. I meet a nice lady last night in chat who found it this way. of course, i cant remember her name.... (oops) Lucie, this is Happy News Indeed!!! *doing the dance of joy* Winter- have marked a big W on my calendar on July 9th

Winter- have marked a big W on my calendar on July 9th You are correct, Winter...FP does preem in LA and NY on July 9th. I just spoke to the man at Phaedre...he says he does not expect CF to attend. "Unless he happens to be in LA or NY at the time". (LA is a good possibility) "He's gone on to bigger things now....SIL really put him on the map". (hope he's right....but we've all heard that one before...haven't we? Anyway, I inquired if we could do anything to bring the film to other cities..."an individual can't do much....a theatre owner needs hundreds of requests...a soccer league, maybe".So you soccer fans and moms out there see what you can do. And Winter, call him at 323-938-9610 and ask for a ticket to the preem.Who knows?....he might show up!!

Wait a minute, DB is supposed to be in Umbria then, shopping for antiques, how else will I meet him this summer??? Of course, it would be a great coup for your birthday Winter. By the time I'm back I will have missed both FP and MLSF on the big screen. :-( You will all hate me, but I wish they'd delay the openings till September.

What good news, Lucie. (Evelyn) "He's gone on to bigger things now....SIL really put him on the map". (hope he's right....but we've all heard that one before...haven't we? Yup. Does this person know something we don't (re: bigger and better things)? 7/9 is my sister's birthday so I'm sure I'll remember yours, Winter. And we know CF has a reason to be in LA, not NY. Sounds like fate to me. Moon, weren't you in Tuscany/Umbria last summer? Bet he was there, taking his son out to eat(I heard restaurants in Italy have tolerance for children ;-))!

Thanks Karen, I'll try the italics now, but I very much doubt I've got it in me. Eileen(you are to be praised on your cultivated taste in actors, Mannen ;-)). I don't think I deserve praise for having half a brain, but thank you anyway. Also, I look forward to the middle centre position at his next play. But is it really THAT amazing???? He is wonderful, after all. (But 'Not always' I hear.) I'm glad your husband is better Lucie. Give him my best.(Not that he'll know who I am.) BTW, I lied in an earlier posting. I'm not undertwenty-something. I will turn seventeen on Monday. I'm an Aries baby who knows a good actor when she sees one!

Wow! The italics worked! Thanks again Karen!

Mannen--But is it really THAT amazing???? He is wonderful, after all. (But 'Not always' I hear.) Yes, yes, and a thousand times yes. That's his whole appeal to me. And, oh, by they way he's kinda cute too.(hee, hee) But honestly speaking he's so divinely talented. As for the physical aspect, I've never met anyone who made my hands shake--would have never known it until I tried to take a picture of him. Did anything like this happen to anyone else? (Sweaty palms and the tied tongues of course were obvious�that is except for Evelyn). Non CF fans who I have told this to think I'm totally ridiculou . Lucie, I'm glad to hear the good news about your husband.

(JanaC), I've never met anyone who made my hands shake--would have never known it until I tried to take a picture of him. Did anything like this happen to anyone else? (Sweaty palms and the tied tongues of course were obvious�that is except for Evelyn). I told ya' to have another glass of wine :-) Anyway...for someone with shaking hands, you took some pretty good pictures!!

This is my first posting but I just love these boards. Time to de-lurk but also slightly off topic. I didn't know where else to post that JE is to star in Tom Stoppard's play 'The Real Thing' which opens at the Donmar on May 27.

Thank you aishling (do you have something else we could call you?) for de-lurking. Believe me JE news like that is NEVAH off-topic. I'm going to wake Evelyn up shortly! :-) (Why is there such a huge amount of space between your post and the response box?)

The Real Thing runs at the Donmar from 6/1 - 8/1, so Jennifer will be working all summer. May 27 is for preview. Haven't found anything announcing the cast yet.

Karen: Haven't found anything anouncing the cast yet Sarah Woodward, Nigel Lindsay and Mark Bazekey co-star.

Aishling you beat me to it I was just going to post the news, as well as the above cast Stephen Dillane is her co-star, another trip to the Donmar Evelyn? Here it is, the snippet from Tatler magazine, May 1999. (Picture of Colin and E.McG, sitting on the stairs reading the journal). "The Donmar Warehouse was recently over-run by a new breed of theatregoer, stampedes of ladies of a certain age abandoned their labradors, reved up their Volvo's and sped to Covent Garden to catch a glimpse of CF. (right) who starred with E.McG (far right) in a new play 3 Days of Rain last month. Indeed, Mr. Darcy elicited such excitement that the Donmar Box Office staff now refer to his fans as "Friends of the Firth." Lets hope JE does just as well.

Cont. seems I was cut off - "stampedes of ladies of a certain age abandoned their labradors, reved up their Volvo's and sped to Covent Garden to catch a glimpse of CF (right) who starred with E.McG (far right) in a new play 3 Days of Rain last month. Indeed, Mr. Darcy elicited such excitement that the Donmar box office staff now refer to his fans as "Friends of the Firth". Hope JE does just as well.

strange!!

Karen, Aishling is Irish and pronounced Ashleen. That is if Aishling is Irish and pronounces it that way;)

You are correct Laura

The Real Thing runs at the Donmar from 6/1 - 8/1, so Jennifer will be working all summer. May 27 is for preview Ben are you making plans?

(JanaC)This address did not come from the FAQ website but from another source. (Arami) Which one, please? (Sooooooo curious........I thought I'd seen it all... ;-)) Its a mystery to me. Just like his shoe size!!!

JENNIFER EHLE AT THE DONMAR IN A TOM STOPPARD PLAY!! ****Is this a great day or what?**** Bless you Aishling....Karen ( who just called), Ann for posting and Baz Bamigboye in DAILY MAIL for breaking the story. Can I quote what Ann sent me from his column in today's DM? ""Jennifer Ehle has finally found The Real Thing. She has accepted director David Leveaux's invitation to star in his new production of Tom Stoppard's great play about love and marriage, The Real Thing. Ms. Ehle will take the role of Annie, an actress who has an adulterous affair with a play- wright. The part was created in the early Eighties by Felicity Kendal in London and by Glenn Close on Broadway. Although Ms Ehle shot several films last year, including This Year's Love and The Taste of Sunshine, which will premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, she recently complained to the writer Demetrious Matheou that she had been out of work for seven months and spent all day in a coffer bar reading, "and going mad". From now there will be no free time rehearsals begin on Monday. Stephen Dillane will portray Stoppard's cerebral hero Henry, who hopes, with Annie, that he can find the "real thing" for real and not just in the plays he pens. Sarah Woodward, Nigel Lindsay and Mark Bazekey co-star in the production which opens at the Donmar Warehouse Theatre on May 27th." God Bless Baz...he always comes through. (He likes CF & JE..always gives them good reviews:-) ****** Well, I guess it's .....Back to the Donmar..."The Holy of Holies". As Winter would say: "I'm there, baby"!!!

Sorry for the italics....I'm excited as you can see.

With that good news, anyone could suffer an attack of the italics! Go, Evelyn, go! That first row in the stalls has your name on it! Thank you Aishling for the news and thanks Laura for the correction (check #80 for yours, hee hee). Have never run across your name before and it sounds lovely, now that I know how it is pronounced. Welcome to Drool and feel free to join in on all our topics. We are a fun bunch and always eager for information from across the pond.

Interesting news! Baz B. does seem to be a good source for CF and JE. BTW, I'm sure that CF must be filming in Scotland now...didn't he tell Baz that he was returning from LA/the Oscar ceremony to film DonQ. I should think he made the trip to LA primarily to see Will. It must be pretty cold in the Glasgow area at the moment...heavy falls of snow reported. I wonder if Baz B will get the lowdown soon on the casting for BJD, Lion in Winter and Mary Queen of Scots. Lizza, like you I tried to get hold of a copy of ATA. I phoned Video Plus Direct (01733-232800) and they said it wasn't available until May 24th (huh!)but that a lot of people were already reserving it. So there must be some other frustrated CF fans out there. I've reserved a copy and shall wait patiently! I sometimes wonder if part of the charm of CF is that it's so darned difficult to see his work...!!

Welcome and, on behalf of Ben and Evelyn (and other ardent JE fans), thanks for your news, Aishling! It is always a pleasure so see someone delurk. Thanks for following through with that snippet, Ann. At least they got the "Friends of Firth" right but why must they always refer to him as Mr. Darcy? (Bethan) It must be pretty cold in the Glasgow area at the moment I hope Don Q doesn't have to jump into any lochs. I sometimes wonder if part of the charm of CF is that it's so darned difficult to see his work...!! That was Karen's point recently. It's the good old laws of supply and demand (see, I did learn something in economics).

Wow, three P&P2 stars in a row at the Donmar! Is that place a good luck charm or what? I'm glad that JE is going back to work. That article on her sitting in Starbucks reading etc. made me feel sad... and angry that someone so talented should be waiting around for work.

How long could the filming of DQ take? It is only a television movie. Might only be a couple of weeks at most. Any news as to others in the cast? Do you think BBC Scotland could be pestered a little bit for additional details? (We have become a demanding bunch ;-) ) But we do work hard for our info. Baz B is in the Daily Mail, right? Why isn't it online. (sulk sulk)

Movies for television normally have a four to six weeks shoot, but can run up to eight weeks or longer, depending on budget, subject etc. They are normally at par with films made for the cinema. For example "Mrs Brown" was originally a BBC Scotland production, and "Jude" and (I think)"Welcome to Sarajevo" were both BBC film productions that got a theatrical release(as of course was "The Advocate/HOTPIG") So the fact that DonQ is a BBC production does not necessarily mean that it is targeted at TV. But th good thing is, that if it doesn't get a theatrical release, it will always be shown on TV. I think it's scheduled for screening at the beginning of next year...which must mean TV, unless plans change.

It is so annoying being this out of touch. British films that are made for TV are rarely ever show in Australia. (Unless they were relatively big successes.) There are so many CF movies that I can't get a hold of because of that reason. I believe (Uncut) 'Hostages' was a good movie. Can anyone confirm that? Does anyone know what ODB's doing after DonQ? Personally, I can't wait for the baggy woollen swinsuit. It might give him more character. (If that is possible.) I think I might just have to plan a trip to the UK early next year so I can watch it myself.

Welcome Aishling, lovely name! I have an artist friend in Dublin his name is Oisin, luckily, I know how to pronounce it. :-) Thank you our UK friends for the latest info. I will have to look for the Bax B. Karen, read the D. Mail at your bookstore. It works for me.

(Karen)Do you think BBC Scotland could be pestered a little bit for additional details? (We have become a demanding bunch ;-) I wrote to BBC when we first got the news and was told to contact Suzanne Vickers at 141-338-2486 or BBC Scotland Lesley Smith Finance Supervisor, TV Drama Room 2170, BBC Scotland Queen Margaret Drive Tel: (0141-33) 8 2755 Glasgow G12 8DG Fax: (0141-33) 8 2273 External e-mail address : lesley.smith.02@bbc.co.uk I did try to email her and got not response. Anyone else is welcomed to persue the project. After my poor track record with SLOW, I feel I'm a jinx on ODB. **** Tried to talk Phaedra into buying SLOW from the bank. Phaedra is the distrib who is releasing FP).No soap...."we don't buy films from banks esp. if they have been involved in bankruptcy." *** Part of the charm of CF is that it's so darned difficult to see his work...!! JE's aren't that easy either....(next time, evelyn...go for Harrison Ford! **** I have pleaded with the DM on line to include Baz's column...maybe if we all do it. http://www.dailymail.co.uk

Tried to talk Phaedra into buying SLOW from the bank. Phaedra is the distrib who is releasing FP).No soap...."we don't buy films from banks esp. if they have been involved in bankruptcy." Well tried, Evelyn! But talk about "the one that didn't get away". If only they had finished the editing of SLOW a little earlier. And it was the parent company that went bankrupt...Handmade were on a roll with "Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels". Bad luck all the way! BTW...who does buy films from banks?!

No soap...."we don't buy films from banks esp. if they have been involved in bankruptcy." What difference can that possibly make? None, that I can see. Re: The Daily Mail Since "This is London" is owned by the parent company and incorporates info from both the DM and Evening Std, I would imagine the news will hit there tomorrow.

OT. Just thought I would mention that Stephen Dillane, who is starring with JE in hew new play, has also been in three CF films, "The Widowing of etc", "The Secret Garden "and another which I forget for the minute, could be "Hostages" he also also starred in "Welcome to Sarajevo."

I knew that name rang a bell! Thank you AnnW. So he was the one trying to whisk Zoe away from Charlie Holroyd. Harumph! And Secret Garden too. Must take a looksie. :)

BTW...who does buy films from banks?! Big time distribs who have millions of $$$$$. I think Phaedra must have gotten FP at a bargain price. Bethan,how much did FP cost to make? *** ...we don't buy films from banks esp. if they have been involved in bankruptcy." What difference can that possibly make? None, that I can see. They're afraid of further litigations.But once the bank has the title to sell the film I would think all litigations would be have been resolved.I dunno.....

Ben is noticeable silent. :( Has he lost consciousnous? Has he begun the swim across the Atlantic? Is he in the process of cornering the market in flowers with which to shower La Ehle on opening night and every night?

My guess is he tried on his old itchy wool swimming suit and is having trouble getting back out again. I did see his picture, and he is droolworthy, too, BTW. Much the same coloring as TDB but he scowls too much =P Come out, Ben! We miss you!!!

I can confirm the third one was Hostages, and he was excellent in WTS. I think he is slightly older than JE, but quite dishy, I can see it working between JE & him.

Bethan,how much did FP cost to make? I think it was �2 million. Is that right, Bethan? Re Springfolks. Renate am I registered now. Nothing seems to be happaning and I have tried all ways. What should I do now?

Bethan,how much did FP cost to make? I think it was �2 million. Is that right, Bethan? Re Springfolks. Renate am I registered now? Nothing seems to be happening and I have tried all ways. What should I do now?

Ooops! I think the second version of that message looks slightly better! Sorry, I did not intend to post twice.

Allison: Renate am I registered now. Nothing seems to be happaning and I have tried all ways. What should I do now? I've sent out computergenerated invitations to you several days ago, but your reply doesn't come in. Have you got it at all? You have to hit the "reply" button and send it back to sender (not to me!). Make sure the "accept cookies" function of your browser is on. If this doesn't work, I'm sure Marcia will take care that you will get on the list. Because: I'm glad to announce that Marcia and Gi will be the new moderators at the springfolks mailing list. For any future requests regarding applications or springfolks business please turn to Marcia. I have to go into deeper lurkdom for a while, for several reasons. Here's one of them: And another one :-)) :

Sorry for taking up the space and loading time with non-Colin pics. Perhaps you can remove the pics after a while, Karen or Heide.

Have fun, Renate, and if you run across two frolicking dogs (Flick and Frack, was it?), nab'm. ;-)

(Renate) I have to go into deeper lurkdom for a while, for several reasons. V mysterious. Don't stay away too long we shall miss you. As for Springfolks..."I shall conquer this"...

Sorry for taking up the space and loading time with non-Colin pics. Perhaps you can remove the pics after a while, Karen or Heide.

Allison, Email me (the one here works!)...I have already installed two new subscribers who had problems with the reply.

Let me wish you an early Happy Birthday, Mannen. At least you, Tineke and a few others can lower the median for us "women of a certain age" (yadda, yadda, yadda) by a month or two. I appreciate your honesty about your age because now I have to issue a required government warning not just to you but to under-age lurkers not brave enough to post: According to the Surgeon General, anyone under the age of 18 should be aware that continued reading of Drool Topics may lead to the warping of impressionable minds. We at Drool can not be held accountable for corrupting the morals of a minor. And most importantly, parents hold the responsibility for blocking sites they prefer their childre not visit. Luckily, we haven't been too loose with words for a long time and I can tell you're very mature. Just don't go to 34. ;-) I know springfolks is in good hands with Marcia and Gi. And Renate, enjoy your holiday. Don't stray too far from us though. Ciao!

Mannen. Hostages is a good movie. Colin is great as the goodnatured English journalist. Cirian Hands is great too as the Irishman. We brought Bob home today. No more driving back and forth to Winter Haven two or three time a day, at least 100 miles. Thursday we took a break though and instead of coming home in the afternoon went to see SIL again. I needed a good laugh. I really crack up at the end where he starts to get out of the theater until the boy tells the queen that he is there. The way he runs out ot the theater to get her help retrieving his errant bride and the silly look he gets on his face when she says, "Have you lost yo r bride already Wessex," makes me appreciate again what a great actor he really is. I agree whole heartedly with the Academey Awards and the Bafta's in giving Judi Dench the award for best supporting actress. She may have been on screen for only 8 minutes, but what an 8 minutes.

Ladies of drool, I just had this weird thought and it gave me an idea. What if Colin Firth,or his wife , or a friend actually lurk about these parts occassionally. This would be the perfect forum for sending him personal messages. We could tell him how much we adore him, or love his work, or ask about future plans (all clean of course). Who knows, we may even get some answers some day. We can choose a site, call it something clever and we're off. Can we do this, Marcia, Karen, AnnW., Renate?

Heide-According to the Surgeon General, anyone under the age of 18 should be aware that continued reading of Drool Topics may lead to the warping of impressionable minds. We at Drool can not be held accountable for corrupting the morals of a minor. Thanks for the warning Heide, but I'm confident my mind isn't impressionable... It was well and truly warped a LONG time before I started coming to drool. Thanks also for the birthday wishes... I'm glad to be of service in lowering the median for:- "women of a certain age" Susan- This would be the perfect forum for sending him personal messages. We could tell him how much we adore him, or love his work, or ask about future plans (all clean of course). I think it's a good idea, you can never know who's lurking out there... We wouldn't want him to think we're all crazy, would we?

Oops, I'm still getting used to the italics.

All right! Who didn't tell me it would do that?

Lucie, very best wishes to your husband. I am thinking of you both. Thanks Karen, finally got here again.

Moon, have a wonderful time, you will be missed. Maybe you will return with some Tuscan (or Umbrian) "gossip" for us!!!

I certainly hope to have major Umbrian gossip, I shall not be leaving till the end of June, but in the meantime Lizza, please give us the details of the flowers that you sent to the Donmar. How do you know Livia took them home, and what did you write on the card? There is also a possibility that I might be in London for a couple of days in July. I would love to meet you all for tea or lunch, but since I have no definite date set, it might have to be a last minute thing. Do you think it might be possible to set up? Lucie, I also wish your husband a quick recovery.

I'm very happy to hear your good news, Lucie! By my calculations, you''ll be seeing MLSF in the US in about seven weeks! Almost countdown time. As you know, I'm always reading the papers ( (-: ) and I've just read an interesting item about budgets for movie promotion in Hollywood...apparently the average amount budgeted is a stonking $24million per movie. In the UK, I should think the average promotional budget for Brit films is about ten quid! But hype does pay dividends. And (old news!) British cinema mamagers are increasingly reluctant to screen f lm which don't have a big advertising campaign behind them. But it set me wondering just how much promotion Miramax will give MLSF, and whether Colin will have to do talk shows. I really don't see how he can avoid it! Miramax's "An Ideal Husband" (Rupert Everett, Minnie Driver, Cate Blanchett) has just opened here to mixed reviews. But I noticed that the promotion (poster, trailer etc)all focused on the Lord Goring figure played by Rupert Everett "he's the ideal husband, but he doesn't know it". This is a complete and utter distortion of the original play by Oscar Wilde...the ideal husband is infact Sir Robert Chiltern, whose wife regards as perfect, but has a hidden past. But Miramax are obviously selling the movie as an RE vehicle. So I wonder what they'll do with MLSF?! Well, you'll soon find out!

(Bethan) But I noticed that the promotion (poster, trailer etc)all focused on the Lord Goring figure played by Rupert Everett Rupert will bring in the crowds. Not any different than using Ben Affleck to promote SiL really. the ideal husband is infact Sir Robert Chiltern, whose wife regards as perfect, but has a hidden past. That's Jeremy Northam, isn't it? Looked really good and sounded really good in the trailer we saw. Unfortunately JN doesn't have the box-office draw of an RE. So I wonder what they'll do with MLSF?! Oh probably, heart-warming children's film to be seen with the entire family. ;-)

(Bethan)So I wonder what they'll do with MLSF?! (Karen)...Oh probably, heart-warming children's film to be seen with the entire family. ;-) Simon Birch in Scotland. (Yawn, Yawn). However, Karen's pics on the MLSF page shows some romantic pics with Irene Jacobs!!That's promising:-)

Jennifer Ehle will definitely play the role of Annie in Tom Stoppard's play "The Real Thing"....confirmed today by the Donmar Warehouse.The play will run June and July. Box Office: From US: 011-44-171-369-1732 JE fans and Spring mini-reunion (actually everyone welcomed) at the Saturday evening June 12th performance. Please email me if you are interested in having dinner before the performance at ...where else? The LUNA NUOVA.Adjacent to the Donmar...downstairs. So far: AnnW. Lizza and me. (Talked to box office guy...James...who remembers us from the 3 DOR...told him we weren't "charmed" at being labeled the "Volvo-ladies". He roared...I have an idea it was he alright.!!! The snake!):-)) By now they're used to the US crowd buying tickets.

Evelyn, you cannot believe how much good you did my heart and psyche by telling that snake in the glass booth we were not amused! I'd hate to leave him thinking he'd gotten away with something clever at our expense. You are truly amazing - and if I could wiggle my nose and make the flight from here to there a lot shorter, I'd be in the group! Alas...=(

(Marcia)... I could wiggle my nose and make the flight from here to there a lot shorter, I'd be in the group! I wish everyone could be with us....I hope to be able to be lucky enough to get another pic: "Friends of Fine Eyes". If so, maybe I can talk dear ole' Karen into scanning it on Spring :-))

I'll be with you in spirit at the Donmar, Evelyn, and would love to be there in body but.... Hey! Maybe if I go on Jeopardy and win a trip to England I could do it! Karen, you looked terrific tonight. You kept your jitters very well hidden especially when confronted with those ridiculous categories. "Machines?" I wanted to break that Helen's thumbs. So when are you going to take your prize trip?

What happened here?? Did I miss Karen on Jeopardy? Why didn't you tell us? Sono arrabiata con te. Unless someone warns me to turn it on the TV is always off in my house. Congratulations I gather are in order Karen. So, what trip did you win?

I just found a good reason for getting stuff last in Hawaii - I can take Karen on Jeopardy!!! I cannot wait =))

Make that TAPE Karen on Jeopardy

Mmmm! Nice start to my day. Opened today's Guardian G2 section to find large (familiar) pic of CF as Darcy and headline "In search of Mr Right"..Caption to photo "Colin Firth...it was his performance that provided the inspiration for Mark Darcy, hero of that thoroughly modern piece of romantic fiction, Bridget Jones' Diary." Aha, methinks, they've announced the casting for BJD. But, no, it's an article on how although women have changed (successful, careers etc) they are still looking for Mr Darcy (cultivated, manly, decent, but fallible)or in Bridget Jones' case, "a Colin Firth clone in his role as Darcy in P&P". What struck me is that even after three years (nearly) it's still a thrill to read "Colin Fith/Darcy" in the papers!!! Maybe because we were left wanting more, and we know we can never have it...no endless sequels (Darcy6), no prequels (The Young Darcy)...nothing!! BJD remains my only hope. :-) Did you win, Karen?

I taped Karen on Jeopardy. She was quite good and Helen Petroff was coached!

So many news over a weekend! Karen on Jeopardy (don't even really know what it is, but you won, you won!), JE at the Donmar (where is Ben? :-)), Colin in the papers in BJD's announcements... I dodn't like the "clone" part. Does it mean they're not getting *him* for the part? Don't they know there is no such thing as a CF clone? Evelyn and the UK ladies - I hope it is good! But *he* probably won't be there, can you handle that?

(Marcia)I did see his picture, and he is droolworthy, too, BTW. Much the same coloring as TDB but he scowls too much =P Come out, Ben! Maybe he is playing the strong, silent type at the moment...:-D Anyone know if price wars are still going on for RT tix to London? A trip in May is a bit last-minute, though...

Oh yes! Karen-- You did great! I forced my family to sit down and watch you compete. You had yourself a cheering section down in Georgia last night! BTW-- I didn't know more than half the answers to yesterday's game, though I DID know the final Jeopardy! answer. I think it's from too much time spent browsing through Williams Sonoma catalogues! :-P

OK, guys, I was on Jeopardy yesterday, but "no" I didn't win. I came in second, that's how I bet for the final question. Knew that turkey would bet it all, so I just made sure I had enough left to be in second. Winter, you knew it was the paper shredder? Damn! No one I know would've come up with it, but as soon as the time was up and Alex started to speak, I knew it. Just that added little extra... It was fun and an experience. Wished I had better categories (as had been on the two shows I saw being filmed before mine--I cleaned up on those) or at least in the subjects I had spent about two days cramming in before I left. Too bad I didn't have the guts to run the Shakespeare category and hesitated briefly on the $800 question. Definitely would have had the $1,000 in that category. Must check again if time was indeed up when Alex cut me off on the Bobby Darin answer (why, oh why, did I even hesit te - I hum along with Dream Lover whenever I hear it on the oldies radio station). Am dying to see if Helen (the know-it-all witch) researcher and classics major from Long Beach becomes a five-time undefeated champion today, in which case I will feel slightly better have lost to her. Tis over. Sorry I didn't alert everyone in advance, but I didn't want to make a big deal over it, especially since I didn't win. :-)

One last thing: Marcia told me that she taped my appearance and has placed the tape in an honored position in her Colin library (between Playmaker and the Netherfield Ball segment of P&P). I have asked her to put her copy of The Hour of the Pig behind me! ;-D

Karen, I was sorry to have missed you :-( ! Second place or not! What did you chat about during the little 'get to know you' segment? ;-P Let us know if it's re-run, will you? I have asked her to put her copy of The Hour of the Pig behind me! Good choice!

Am dying to see if Helen (the know-it-all witch) researcher and classics major from Long Beach becomes a five-time undefeated champion today, in which case I will feel slightly better have lost to her. OH MY GOD!!!! I just realized.... I'VE MET HELEN BEFORE!!!! I'm not kidding! About a month or two ago, at a dinner at a grad student's house. Some brought dates, others such as myself didn't-- but one of the grad students from my dept. brought Helen along. She didn't mention anything about Jeopardy, but I do remember this woman (couldn't place an ethnicity, and thought her attractive looking) being a classics major, and when I saw her on TV last night, I thought, "Boy she looks familiar!" WHOA...two people I've met competing against one another on the same show!

test

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Oh, I guess I didn't catch it after all:( ugh!

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Small world, huh?

How many times I gotta tell you people? ;-) The TAG is fixed, but you can't tell until you leave the topic and come back without the old message on the board. Trust me!! No need to keep posting "test" messages to fix the tag. It is fixed!! If you want to verify this, leave 118. Go to another topic. Then come back and in the little redisplay box below put in -2 or something and you will see.

Figured that one out, ex-friend;p;) hee hee;)

It just occurred to me why Karen requested HOTPig behind her video. She is "fixing" up her house and wanted some help in wall removal in the least painful way! Love the idea ;)

Don't know what Laura did...but the dialog box wouldn't come up after her posting.... *** I missed Karen...my TV station pre-emted J. But I'm first in line for a copy Karen....:-) I'm putting mine next to Fever Pitch....Arsenal and all that stuff...her faves ***** Winter)Anyone know if price wars are still going on for RT tix to London? A trip in May is a bit last-minute, though High Season starts June 15. If you buy before April 30 you can still get low season prices.Go to a "bucket shop". I got a great price on United from a discount travel agent...about $300. below the reg price. ***** No Gi . It won't be the same without everyoneat the Donmar and ODB. It will be different, but a lot of fun also. I think JE is a superb actress and this is a Tom Stoppard (not an American play!)I haven't read it yet, but by the description of her character, it sounds like the Calypso role she played in The Camomile Lawn. Her first TV venture, for which she won an award. Baz and Daily Mail really got the scoop. Agent says it was only finalized three days ago!!The Donmar lives on the edge!! I too wonder if ODB will go some time. ay

Help!!! What exactly is Jeopardy about? I mean I have an idea I would just like a clearer picture!! Good on you Karen, second is no bad thing. We all came second at the Donmar too(to Livia!!!) I could kick myself for not getting the Guardian too.

Lizza ...impt that you contact AnnW. ASAP. re: TRT at the Donmar.

Ladies: Guess what? BBC Publicity Scotland did respond to my email re: Donovan Quick. It is in production...6 weeks. To be screened next year.Best part is that Karen has consented to be our liaison!! Are we lucky or what!!

Lizza, Jeopardy is a game show in the US (I believe there are versions of it in many other countries as I saw an international tournament once with champions from a number of places.) There is a game board with six categories and you select "answers" for a certain dollar amount. Our answers have to be in the form of a question though. They give you the answer, we supply the question. It's been on television for more than 20 years.

Hi! I have never posted here before, but I've followed the discussions. I write because I watched episode four of P&P2 again today, and I am all giddy...he makes me swoon. I confess that it has been long since I have cared for actors, not since I was a teenager, but with him, Lord, I am infatuated. I envy all the ladies who saw him in person, and the pictures! I have read some were somewhat disappointed, but I could never be. I have no taste for pretty boys. In the words of my dear JA herself, "pictures of perfection make me sick and wicked." I love his hands, his voice, his eyes, his figure, the way he carries himself, his features...He looks so sweet in the photographs you all took at the theatre. I have a question: what does he smell like? I want details!

(Marcia) It just occurred to me why Karen requested HOTPig behind her video. She is "fixing" up her house and wanted some help in wall removal in the least painful way! No, then she would have requested HOTPIG to be placed face to face with her video. More likely she wants HOTPIG behind her because she needs help removing curtains. Lidya, you're no stranger - certainly not at 34. Welcome here as well and at any Colin/Darcy subject is welcome though we also have a special topic for Darcy, 112. Tape 4 is one of my favorites, especially if you fast forward through those pesky "other" scenes. I still love P&P but after countless viewings, I'm tired of watching Lizzy and Jane picking flowers.

I wish I had seen Karen on Jeopardy but wasn't near a t v. What happened to the Donmar pics by Lizza and Maria that were in the archives at colinfirth.com. when I click on them I get "file not found"

Lidya, it wasn't that we were disappointed, not at all, it was just, well one thought things couldn't get any better, we had seen our hero in the flesh and he was everthing we could wish for, handsome, charming and very friendly and obliging and what an actor. But there is more, we have MLSF to look forward to, a possible re-run of 3DOR at the end of the year and DQ sometime in the future, and one hopes for more and more, especially some high profile project like SIL. No we were definitely not disappointe , it was just a kind of anit-climax but I am through that now and looking forward to more news and more Colin and I am sure that goes for everyone who expressed similar feelings to myself.

Hi, Lidya. Good to see you over here. I believe a question about his scent was raised shortly after "the" weekend at the Donmar (if not at topic 116, it could have been in chat) and the attendees couldn't detect anything. Sensory overload, no doubt, but confirmation that ODB uses appropriate discretion with cologne or aftershave (and in those pictures, he does not look like he secretly waxes ;-))! (Marcia) It just occurred to me why Karen requested HOTPig behind her video. She is "fixing" up her house and wanted some help in wall removal in the least painful way! (Heide) More likely she wants HOTPIG behind her because she needs help removing curtains. LOL! Get that rooster ready!

Hi all, A de-lurking lurker here - some of you will have already "met" me through springfolks and Marcia has encouraged me to de-lurk. Since I've just been given a new project to work on, I may be lucky to lurk, let alone post, the next few weeks, but - here goes (with apologies to all who've already seen this). I've been a lurker off and on at Drool for awhile now, am married to a man who says NEVER LEAVE YOUR NAME ON THE INTERNET. I've been Firthevotee since 1996 - where was I all those other years, before P&P?? I should have been there at that British hospital on September 10, 1960, ready to applaud! (I could have been, but my mother probably wouldn't have let me out.) I've seen all his major films, a few of the lesser known ones have eluded me, and have spent many sighing hours at all the websites where he is to be found. I live in north Georgia and work in community arts. I'm still new to the Internet, make lots of mistakes and am very self conscious about posting! Hope you will bear with me. And thanks, Marcia! tw

(TW),I've been Firthevotee since 1996 - where was I all those other years, before P&P?? I should have been there at that British hospital on September 10, 1960, ready to applaud! (I could have been, but my mother probably wouldn't have let me out.) LOL! Welcome TW, we have much in common, including helping the arts.

Welcome TW, the more the merrier to spread the word to get Colin better known all over the world. If only we didn't have to wait so long all the time to see his work, DQ will not be shown until next year, SLOW is deep in the vaults of the Bank and although MLSF is due for release shortly, I shall believe it when I see it. Still we do have our 3DOR memories, which I cherish and which will have to sustain me until whenever!! Sorry TW didn't mean to depress you, please come back often.

Hallo Lydia and TW, welcome to Drool! I hope you'll feel at home here and have a lot of fun.

Welcome de-lurkers all! Evelyn, hearty congratulations on getting a personal contact for DQ. This does seem to be the best way of chasing news. And at least with the BBC we know we will see it on schedule ( and video it of course!)and there'll be no delays. It sounds like a longer than average shoot, which is a good sign. More high profile? SLOW...this is not really news, but I remember reading an article a few months ago about Arts Council funded films. About ten were listed, including SLOW, and all (except SLOW) have now been released, including last week "Prometheus" a two hour cinematic version of a verse epic by Northern poet Tony Harrison. Got terrible reviews. But this irritated me immensely...why should this boring turgid effort find a distributor in the UK, and not SLOW. So I did a bit of dtetective work and found that all the Art Council funded movies (except SLOW of course) were Channel 4 co-productions, and Channel 4 is also a distributor, and also runs Film Four, a cable channel. If SLOW had been backed by Channel 4 and not by the (at the time) more successful Handmade Films, it would have been okay. Sorry to bore you with this....!!! But the vaguaries of the movie business drive me mad! Stick to TV and theatre, Colin! Also, still droning on. We've just had two major regional film festivals in the UK (Leeds and Bradford) which showed virtually every Brit film made recently (all you have to do is submit), the Cambridge Film Festival is coming up (50% European independents), closely folllowed by the strongly commercial and competitive London and Edinburgh Festivals, where films are actually bought and sold. And these are just the UK festivals. It's just that I don't think SLOW is an LA type film, and (without sounding lik a little Englander!) I just wish it could get some exposure in the UK. And we have very few screenplays by black writers...this would be seen as something positive. I promise I shall shut up now, and forever hold my peace, but the release of "Prometheus" was the FINAL straw! :-( And I need to rant on about it!

Thank you Bethan for all your sleuthing.At least you solved the mystery why all the other films funded by the Art council at that time have been screened. Sadly, it all has to do with Handmade which went belly-up and SLOW went to the creditors.Somehow the LA bank was bankrolling Handmade. Not unusual for US money to fund films out of the country. A real bummer:-(( ***** There is a new film festival in the works...The Hollywood FF in August. I'll inquire and see if SLOW is getting screened there. **** Bethan)Evelyn, hearty congratulations on getting a personal contact for DQ. Didn't plan it that way....all I asked was who was going to be in the cast and when it would be shown.....somehow, it then got personal. Anyway, something positive might come out of it ; Karen is going to follow-up. Nice when publicity people like the web:-))

tw, How delightful to see you here where you truly belong! Dive in and let it all hang out...we will not let you drown =)

Hmmm, wonder what I was trying to post at 18:51??? Oh well, bad news on the MLSF front. According to our NY correspondent, Anne, Miramax is now giving July 16th as the release date. When pressed for a reason for these continued changes, Miramax said the film is "not quite finished" and they didn't want to pit such a "lovely little movie" against the big mindless [my word] blockbusters and not before it is absolutely ready because they want it to be a success. [sounds of tap dancing in background] Unfortunately, July 16th is also the date that Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut is scheduled to be released. Not a good thing to wake up to...

(Evelyn)all I asked was who was going to be in the cast Wonderful that you have a contact there, Evelyn. Did they tell you who else was in the cast? (Karen)Unfortunately, July 16th is also the date that Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut is scheduled to be released Maybe this will not be such a problem. EWS seems to be all about sex and maybe there will be room for a, in UK parlance, PG rated film for those who prefer something less torrid in the Summer months! I don't think we can expect huge box office in any event. It was a cheap film to make by US standards. Also if they are keen to get it right then it may be better than when Ben and Harry Knowles saw it. Often these small films do well in the Oscars, particularly in the actor categories.

One thing MLSF shares with EWS is the fight for available screens. First off, EWS will likely be NC-17; therefore, not many theater chains will carry it. So in essence, it will be very similar to an art house film like MLSF. The majority of screens will be allocated to the blockbusters and other mindless comedies (how many films can Adam Sandler or David Spade do?). What often happens is that other films fail to bring in the crowds and others must fill their slot, but often a film can't get screens du ing this period.

(Allison)Re: DQ Wonderful that you have a contact there, Evelyn. Did they tell you who else was in the cast? They will be releasing the publicity next week, said Lisa, the publicist who was meeting with Colin yesterday.It was exciting to talk to her in Scotland!!! Anyway, Karen is now our "point -person" on DQ. She will be in contact henceforth. We've got several good contacts with BBC now...and they are reliable. ***** AS far as MLSF goes....Miramax will release it when they know it will be tne most successful ($$$$).And like Bethan says, perhaps they want to get it right. I frankly think it will be more of a success in UK than in the US. For starters Denis Forman and Sir David Puttnam are recognizable names over there. **** And hey kids, quit whining...I'd give anything for a JE movie to be picked up by Miramax!!Regardless when they released it!!

Wow, go to Murph's Appreciation page to see the most gorgeous new smiley picture I have ever seen of Colin, absolutely adorable, my favourite to date I think. Apparently it is from an Australian magazine Good Taste.lovely jubbly!!! (Is that how to spell "smiley"?)

Lisa, the publicist who was meeting with Colin yesterday. Oh, lucky Lisa!

Re. MLSF Can't understand why they say it's "not yet finished" unless they mean the preparations for advance publicity. One thing that struck me is that if it had opened on 11 June, Colin would not have been available for any promoption in the US as he'll still be filming DonQ. As for Eyes wide Shut, presumably it will open nationwide, whereas MLSF will just open in LA/NY and then hopefully transfer later to other cities...ie, it's not in direct competition. I read some comments in the good ol' Sunday Telegraph about EWS...it seems to contain some very explicit sex scenes...apparently some bemused critics at a preview thought it was soft porn. I guess there'll be a lot of hype, and an initial rush to see it, but I don't see this as impacting on MLSF. Actually, I agree with Allis n - the type of films CF stars in are just never going to be big box office, multiplex fodder ( but they can still be good films). I rather liked the sound of Judi Dench's (and Cher) latest "Tea with Mussolini" but it's done absolutely nothing at the Box Office. No teen appeal. MLSF may be similar, but please release it! Miramax may also be concentrating on promoting Rupert Everett and "An Ideal Husband", which got middling to bad reviews here. "When the furniture is more interesting than the acting you know you're in trouble"! UK papers refer to RE and Minnie Driver as current "Hollywood darlings" Are they really? I frankly think (MLSF)t will be more of a success in UK than in the US. For starters Denis Forman and Sir David Puttnam are recognizable names over there. (Evelyn) I agree with you here, Evelyn. It's David Puttnam's swansong, and he's well respected and will get a sympathetic press. I do think it's a shame that Miramax keep on postponing the release...it would have been a good summer movie in the UK last year! Oh, lucky Lisa! Mmmm! Yes!!! Look forward to hearing from our go-between Karen!

I do think it's a shame that Miramax keep on postponing the release...it would have been a good summer movie in the UK last year! But has anyone called Miramax London?? ( Somebody else distribs their films in UK, but they would tell you). It just might be, folks that you will be gettin MLSF before us." An Ideal Husband" has yet to be released here. And there is a lot of talk about "The Winslow Boy" . Another Brit-flick.With Jeremy Northam,Winter!! *** (Bethan)I rather liked the sound of Judi Dench's (and Cher) latest "Tea with Mussolini" but it's done absolutely nothing at the Box Office. No teen appeal Cher's rock video is doing great.....Maybe that's what "Tea with Mussolini" needed. I must admit , it doesn't grab me.

I have mixed feelings about the delay in MLSF's release. In June theaters will still be caught in the sucking vortex that is Star Wars (I enjoyed Liam's latest quote--"at the end of the day it's still only a movie"). Between that and Notting Hill, MLSF would have been buried. And if MLSF's going to be promo'd as a family film, EWS certainly won't be competition (but I see your point about screen availability, Karen. Sometimes I wonder why these huge theaters were turned into ten and twelve-plexes when they show only four different movies). And what's a few more weeks if we've waited an extra year? What concerns me is the "not finished" part. Heavens, are they still slicing and dicing? That can't be a good sign. Or as Bethan says, is it the publicity preparations? Aargh! "Tea w/ Mussolini" is getting a build up here in the states. Interesting to read it's not doing well in the UK. Does Cher's upper lip move? (Bethan) UK papers refer to RE and Minnie Driver as current "Hollywood darlings" Are they really? Well, RE sure pops up enough in the press. Minnie was more of a darling last year (IMO). I hadn't seen her for a while until the Oscars when she had on that eye-popping dress. Yowza! Welcome, TW!

Northam's got a lot of pics in the can, though waiting for someone to pick them up-- sound familiar? My best bet is, yes Evelyn, 'An Ideal husband' and 'The Winslow Boy.' Welcome de-lurkers! Am going through a crisis right now. London in July: Yes or no? Finances have something to do with it, but I'm feeling like a well-deserved break, plus looking after my mental well-being should take priority. Is a group trip planned for Jennifer Ehle @ Donmar?

(Eileen) Between that and Notting Hill, MLSF would have been buried. Maybe. Maybe not. But that does bring up a sore point. Colin should have been in Notting Hill!! (pout pout) It looks like a plum part. I can only surmise that Hugh Grant has compromising pictures of somebody in order to get that part. It's not like anyone in this country has missed his presence on the screen. Obviously Julia has never met Colin; he would've been perfect for that role. To clarify about EWS: With its rating (NC-17) it won't be at most of the huge multiplexes. The owners know there just isn't as profitable an audience for those films as Star Wars & Co. EWS will be at the smaller cinemas. Exactly the same places where an MLSF would play. So they will be competing for the same screen; not the same audience. What concerns me is the "not finished" part. Definitely. That is very disturbing. I think it's the movie, not the publicity preparations. Miramax has probably been showing it to focus groups and not getting good enough feedback. Last night I went to a screening of another film for Miramax called "The Castle." There were the usual ratings of "from poor to excellent" and "would you recommend it to your friends" stuff. In the written comments section, I wrote: "Tell Miramax NY to release My Life So Far." Just doing what I can. ;-) Does Cher's upper lip move? LOL!! With movement, comes wrinkles. ;-)

Welcome to drool, Ex-lurkers. I am only new myself, but I promise you'll find us a good bunch. Lidya- but with him, Lord, I am infatuated. You are in close company. It is actually a prerequisite. (Hee hee.) TW, come and enjoy. So droolers, does anyone have any information on when DQ will arrive? Is Australia on the cards?

What concerns me is the "not finished" part. Way, way back (last June I think)when I last phoned Enigma Films who produced MLSF I was told that had been edited and had just had another preview and there were no plans to show it again before release. I find it difficult to believe that they're still tweaking it. And David Puttnam called it a "lovely film". I must be optimistic about this!! I didn't know that Miramax had a London But I think I'm too much of a chicken to phone them, incase it's bad news!!:-)

I'm sure MLSF was a "lovely film," we must brace ourselves for the edited-for-the US version. Be brave Bethan, do ring them, you have always done such a great job getting us information.

(Moon)I'm sure MLSF was a "lovely film," we must brace ourselves for the edited-for-the US version. Not only does that mean no Sporran, it just might mean no itchy, baggy, woolie swim suit! That would be too much to endure=P I think someon better claim it right now just in case...!

(Winter)Is a group trip planned for Jennifer Ehle @ Donmar? "Friends of Fine Eyes" will gather for the evening performance on Saturday night June 12. Performance at 7:30. We're thinking of dinner beforehand at...Luna Nuova, where else!Adjacent to the Donmar. Come on .So far it's AnnW. Lizza and me....hope Kirsten can too.. And Ben...where is he?? ***** (Karen)Colin should have been in Notting Hill!! Obviously Julia has never met Colin; he would've been perfect for that role. GP should have introduced them....he would have been a perfect book-shop owner...with those little wire eyeglasses!!

(Bethan)I didn't know that Miramax had a London office So who do you think released SIL? (Bethan) But I think I'm too much of a chicken to phone them, incase it's bad news!!:-) C'mon Bethan.....that's how I got involved with Handmade 18 months ago ...remember? You didn't want to.... This is the Moment to Strike....You can do it....Make it Happen:-)

Bethan....in fact... I just found the Miramax London phone number...remember we called to inquire about the SIL premiere tickets for AnnW? And they sent us on to the Chicken-Shed Theatre Benefit organizers..... Here it is: 0171 535-8300

Ben's computer is on the blink, I think.

Mannen, did you see my post about a lovely, really lovely photo and article in an Australian magazine called "Good Taste", do you know it. I urge you to rush out and get it, it is well worth it!!

Friends of fine Eyes...I hope you have a great time in London. I think it would be too much to ask Antonio to go back to the Donmar this soon, even for a lady actress...And we'll be deep into the wedding preparations at that date. But I'll sure have a peek at JE's page to read your impressions of her and the play! ;-)

Ann- really lovely photo and article in an Australian magazine called "Good Taste", do you know it. I urge you to rush out and get it, it is well worth it!! Thanks for the tip Ann, I haven't ever read that magazine but I'll keep an eye out. I'm leaving for Germany tomorrow morning (Wow, just the kind of trivia I KNOW you all want to hear.) so I won't be posting for a couple of months. (Poor me, I'll miss out on all the gossip!!!!) I'll stop in at the newsagents on the way to the airport and see if can get a copy of the magazine to read on the plane. (Mmmm, wouldn't that be nice.) At least I'll be on the same side of the hemisphere as the drool-worthy CF.

(Evelyn), ...he would have been a perfect book-shop owner...with those little wire eyeglasses!! A new look for Colin! I agree he would have been perfect in the role. HG is insoportable. Ann, I saw that picture( those pearly whites), but where is the article?

Mannen, have a great trip.

Mannen, I believe you cannot get this magazine from a newsagents, I believe it is ditributed through Woolworths? Have a great time, speak to you in two monts and if you get the magazine will you please hold on to it until you get back.

Mannen, will you be in Frankfurt, by accident? There are some Firthaddicts around here.... :-)

(Moon)I'm sure MLSF was a "lovely film," we must brace ourselves for the edited-for-the US version. What is Miramax going to do, edit Ben Affleck in? How about a meteorite, tidal wave or volcanic eruption (been there, done that)? Wait, I've got it! There'll be a dream sequence...the moss farm will be transported far into the future...there will be spaceships...robots making strange noises...laser swords...wierd heavy breathing...computer-generated aliens...Ewan McGregor... Let's line up now! Grab your tent! (Bethan) I find it difficult to believe that they're still tweaking it Wasn't there a review on-line recently (around the time news broke of 3DOR, DQ and the spread in 'People?')? I remember there was some question as to whether or not it was a new (current) review or a rehash of an older one. The critic praised Colin but didn't care for the movie--said the plot wandered or left too many storylines unresolved, I think. If that was a recent review than I wouldn't be surprised if the movie was further tweaked. That is a nice picture over at Murph's corner. Yummm! Have a lovely trip, Mannen. You too, Renate!!

(Bethan) I find it difficult to believe that they're still tweaking it So do I. Hugh Hudson Oscar-winning director of "Chariots of Fire" is the director of MLSF.Surely he knows better than to let a film with a wandering story-line be released . Let's see what Miramax tells you, Bethan.Hmmmmmm?

Wasn't there a review on-line recently (around the time news broke of 3DOR, DQ and the spread in 'People?')? I remember there was some question as to whether or not it was a new (current) review or a rehash of an older one. Definitely an older one, I think, as it was titled "The Roaring Game" Thanks Evelyn for the Miramax phone number...I'm most certainly going to ring them (as I'm seriously miffed...please read on) and I'm going to ring the Scottish Arts Council, who funded MLSF to the tune of �1million (and should be keeping a check on where their money has gone!) I checked the UK IMDB today to see if there was any mention of MLSF in the summer releases (no!) and out of interest checked the old release date, June 11, and what do I find? Not MLSF, but "Onegin" with Ralph Fiennes! (red rag to a bull :-) ) which was completed at least 12 months after MLSF. And what about July 16 (incase of a simultaneous opening in the UK and USA) well, good choice Miramax, that's the day "The Phantom Menace" opens. Jeee-zus!! EWS and Star Wars. So when do we see MLSF in the UK....I don't know...and that's why I'm phoning, even if it's bad news!! BTW "Onegin" has been picked up by a very small distributor "Seven Arts " which releases one film every five years or so. But they've still beaten Miramax. I also saw at IDMB that Miramax are presenting "An Ideal Husband" as the closing film of the Cannes Festival (and it really did not get good reviews!), and there are also renewed reports of a sequel to SIL (no doubt with Viola suitably widowed). Well, I'm a real grump....that's the last time I check out the IMDB!! Can someone tell me where to find the good news! :-)

Betha n, thankyou for telephoning Miramax, I too would like to know when we are likely to see it in the UK, and if by chance they should give your a release date would you also please ask them if there is to be Premiere, when it is and whether CF is likely to attend. Actually after you have rang I migh ring as well, it will be good for Miramax to know that there are people desperate to see it after so many delays.

(Eileen)What is Miramax going to do, edit Ben Affleck in? How about a meteorite, tidal wave or volcanic eruption (been there, done that)? Wait, I've got it! There'll be a dream sequence...the moss farm will be transported far into the future...there will be spaceships...robots making strange noises...laser swords...wierd heavy breathing...computer-generated aliens...Ewan McGregor... Let's line up now! Grab your tent! You think you're being facetious...Not at all, My Dear. Check out Karen's posting on 34 today. It speaks to this very problem!

I'll let you know how I get on, Ann. I just don't know what they're waiting for...the next millennium? For Colin to lose all his hair? :-) Every week half a dozen or so films open, get modest reviews and a modest return from the Box Office....it's no big deal if MLSF isn't an Oscar winner. At least it focuses on family life, and not on horror or depravity, and the scenery is nice! H-any-way, let's harass Miramax! And whilst I'm in a bad mood, I'm going to phone Working Title again and ask about the casting for BJD, the world's best kept secret!

Good for you Bethan, I look forward to hearing from you. BTW did you ever get an answer from the BBC after you wrote to them about adapting 3DOR for TV?

Bethan, I agree with your comments re: the need to harass Miramax about MLSF. It seems a stigma becomes attached to films that have had their release continually delayed, no matter how good the filmmaker's intentions. For instance, "Metroland," starring Emily Watson, just opened this week in the U.S. (Has it opened in the U.K. yet?) The opening paragraph of the review says: "Before 'Hilary and Jackie,' before even 'The Boxer,' Emily Watson made 'Metroland.' Where this small British film has been is anybody's guess. But Watson's recent Academy Award nomination seems to have brought it out into the light of day." The fact that the film has been delayed already puts it behind the eightball in the reviewer's mind.

The "new" Diane Lane film, "A Walk on the Moon" is actually more than two years old. It's a Miramax film which is now getting pretty good reviews. I read a few weeks ago in the Philly Inquirer that Miramax waited to release the film until they found just the right spot for it. Whatever that means. But I have faith they will release MLSF and most likely this year. And they will place it carefully. This is not SLOW for which I have no hope.

Yes, the Putnam/Hudson connection gives me hope. Even though this is a small film, with such a renowned producer and director connected to it I can't imagine it won't be released sometime. But my patience is being tested :-)! Very frustrating about SLOW. I wish they'd just print up a batch of videos and let us buy the darn thing!

Ooops! I'm not sure about waiting for the right time for release....you can wait too long. Actors' careers lose their momentum. I think that in the UK, Colin definitely needs a boost. It's 3 1/2 years since P&P. Although he got excellent reviews for 3DOR, his pre-publicity was, I thought, very disappointing....he wasn't even mentioned in the cast.((EMCG stars!) Compare with the terrific pre-opening publicity that Cate Blanchett is getting for "Plenty" (and also Rufus Sewell got for "Macbeth").Also Colin's no l nger mentioned in the cast list for SIL...replaced by JD in the no 4 spot. I noticed that a new film (a love story) funded by the Arts Council, and starring Ioan Gryffyd, who was in "Hornblower", is opening next week. No 2 year delay here. We've also got "Beseiged", starring David Thewlis, a love story between an African woman and an Englishman, set in France or Italy (sounds familiar?). And Jeremy Northam's "Misadventures of Margaret" has opened, to abysmal reviews. But it's opened! Sorry to be back in grouch mode, but sometimes I despair. We see everyone but Colin in the UK. What's Colin's agent doing? He should have at least checked how 3DOR was being promoted. We've lots of film festivals in the UK in the next few months...why not check on the status of SLOW. This film can secure a limited opening in the UK .....this is NOT a problem.( Making millions of dollars is the problem!) It could have been shown at both the Leeds and Bradford Film festivals ( I know, because I asked a fr end of mine who sets up the programme and they would have gladly shown it...but it has to be submitted, not kept in a bank vault!). And MLSF, well, I'll find out next week... Again apologies, for being such a misery... I have to read too many papers for my own good

Forgot to mention.. "Metroland" opened here about a year ago (made no impact) and like "Hilary and Jackie" was another Arts Council funded film. My final shot as Ms Miseryguts....you see, with one notable exception, all Arts Council-funded films actually make it to the screen!(And SLOW was one of the highest recipients of funding (more than "Hilary and Jackie")) Am giving up newspapers, am not going to read any more film reviews, ever, and am going to sit in the sunshine!

I have really enjoyed catching up on all the postings. As usual, they give information , pleasure, great amusement and keep the drool factor in my life "topped up". Althou' I won't be able to post as much as I would like, this is to let you know I have not forgotten my promise re the Donmar. Great info Bethan, and it is great to have a feel for DQ, thanks to Evelyn and now Karen. Welcome to all delurkers or should I say "Welcome Home" Ben, we expect nothing less than your presence at TRT!!!! She is worth it!

Bethan, I have just read this in today Sunday Times, can't type it all but the heading is "Lottery's 200 funded films all lose cash". Half way through the article "Just 17 other Arts Council films, including Wilde etc have re-couped any money at all for the council...... One of the biggest losers is Keep the Aspidistra Flying which got �1m in lottery money out of a total budget of �2.7m. it flopped despite its distinguished cast...... Others which have not recouped money, include Photographing Fairies �75 ,000, My Son The Fanatic �750,000, Babymother �1m and Divorcing Jack �800,000. The Council have also been criticised for investing �1m in Plunkett & Macleane when its main backer was the wealthy PolyGram. The film, starring Robert Carlyle opened to dismal reviews, a month ago. Othere lottery films may never even see a cinema, Peggy Su! �500,000 THE SECRET LAUGHTER OF WOMEN �900,000 and Quadrille �1m received cash more than two years ago but there is no plan to release them." Boo Hoo!! Also from the same article "Now the government, which fears public money is being wasted, is to move lottery funding of films away from the Arts Council to a new body, British Film which will oversee all such public funding. British Film will be told to give cash to producltions which stand a chance of making money. A government source said "We need to ensure that lottery funding helps to build film business as part of an industrial strategy". Such a shame as I am sure it would do better than any!!!!!

BAFTA TV Nomonations are on the British Theatre website of the Mining Co Go to : http://britishtheatre.miningco.com/library/news/bl042599.htm#BAFTA I see that Timothy Spall (Lyndon in "Dutch Girls") has been nominated for Best Actor in "Our Mutual Friend"...which also received great reviews in the US. (Next year....let's go Colin for DQ!!) *** (Bethan)...Re: 3 DOR publicity...he wasn't even mentioned in the cast.((EMCG stars!) The program and lobby posters has Colin starring. The Donmar has v. limited funds for publicity. (Incidentally, they have increased their prices for "The Real Thing"). I plan to call them next week, however and ask what they plan to do for publicity for TRT...and a press kit. ***** British Film will be told to give cash to productions which stand a chance of making money. I feel this is a step in the right direction. Frankly , I think the public has been fleeced . But who will do the judging of what films will make money.. ..I would think they should appropriate part of their funding to help start distributors. That and not having the theatres to show the films,(never mind not having an audience!!) are the big problems. *** "Hilary and Jackie" ( with David Morrissey... Pip/Theo) was a wonderful film. **** (Bethan)....Re: SLOW....I know, because I asked a friend of mine who sets up the programme and they would have gladly shown it...but it has to be submitted, not kept in a bank vault!) The bank is not interested in film festivals, Bethan , they want a buyer.

Ann, Just off for an evening out, but will post later on my favourite topic! "Peggy Su" and "Quadrille" were in fact both released, but not in the UK or US. "Peggy Su" had an unknown Chinese cast and was sold to Singapore, "Quadrille" had a French cast, was sold to France (a country that believes in supporting its own actors!) and did very well at the Box Office, I believe. Which leaves SLOW unfairly branded as the only turkey in the 200.... Must dash...to be continued!

I'm back! I had a wonderful time in London (albeit a bit short). Thanks for advising me to buy A Month in the Country. I enjoyed it very much. I got Circle of Friends as well and was looking for the Hour of the Pig, but they didn't have it. Evelyn: I saw This Year's Love and Bedrooms and Hallways while I was there.

(Teneke) I saw This Year's Love and Bedrooms and Hallways while I was there. And I saw a few photographs of you last night!! :-)

Oops, sorry about the spelling, Tineke. :-)

(Karen)And I saw a few photographs of you last night!! :-) AAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH!

(Bethan)Which leaves SLOW unfairly branded as the only turkey in the 200... Remember that SLOW was screened at the American Film Festival in February where distribs from all over the worldattended. "Onegin", with RF was picked up by a UK distrib and it is being released on June 12 in UK.So UK distribs did attend....why didn't they select SLOW!!

(Evelyn) ...why didn't they select SLOW!! Because a Fiennes brother wasn't in it? Truly, unless we see it for ourselves, we'll never know. And I saw a few photographs of you last night!! :-) Oh? Did Tineke make the front page of the Tatler?

Sorry for messing up the tags!

okay, I'll give up on SLOW. I'm becoming boring! But I deeply regret that it didn't stay within the "protected environment" of Arts Council funded films. They all do eventually make it to the screen, even if it's a single art house cimema in London, like Panton Street. And they're shown at festivals, for the reviews and promotion. When I see the kind of trash which regularly hits our TV screens and read reviews of films like "Plunket & Macleane", I just feel sad about this film. It's probaly not commercia , Colin's not a star name, and unlikely to become one

Oh, come on Bethan, that's not like you, where's the Bethan fighting spirit!! you'll need it when you telephone Miramax don't forget, oh and the Scottish ? Board!

oops, cut myself off... continuing "become one without more exposure in lead roles. Actually, I think I'm just generally disheartened today. The standard of most TV drama in the UK is falling and becoming cruder and unwatchable , and most movies at the multiplexes are not worth seeing. I can understand why most decent actors "end up" working in the theatre and radio! Please excuse my gloom!

Scottish Arts Council, the name escaped me for a minute.

If I may add, I'm glad about SLOW, it's the one CF film that I would least want to see. I just can't see him with Nia Long. sorry. Has nothing to do with subject.

Thanks Ann! I'm a real party pooper today, don't know why,...didn't even enjoy our meal out. I won't post until I'm cheerful again. And I'll get stuck into the phone calls...although as a closet-Colinist (still!) I'll have to choose my time! Laura, I guess I'm different here. Having lived in Nigeria ( and also as admirer of contemporary Nigerian writing) I thought this was a very interesting project. Hence my near-obsessive interest!

(Bethan)Am giving up newspapers, am not going to read any more film reviews, ever, and am going to sit in the sunshine What sunshine? Have you emigrated? (Evelyn)..I would think they should appropriate part of their funding to help start distributors. That is exactly the problem of the British film industry. The problem is more than one for the British film makers and actors themselves, it means that British culture is being eroded by the onslaught from the States. Even when US producers like Miramax make films of British subjects like SIL, there is always a US slant to make them acceptable to the huge US audience. Also to be a success in the cinema, a British actor really does have to go to to LA and sell him or herself a la Minnie Driver. It must be a very difficult problem for someone like CF who is offered British scripts. He then has to decide whether the wretched thing will ever be distributed!

Sorry if the above sounded anti American. Wasn't meant to be. Love the States (am off there later this week) but also want UK to retain something of our own culture which is distinct from the US.

When I post, I like to do it in quantity. Something has been intriguing me. Are you all familiar with Tonya's website? She had tickets for EIGHT performances of 3DOR. I have been checking to see how she got on but there has been no word. Neither has she made any further updates to her website. A severe case of post firthmatic stress disorder?

Her 3DOR site is at http://www.geocities.com/Paris/Lights/2524/london.html

(Allison), That is exactly the problem of the British film industry. The problem is more than one for the British film makers and actors themselves, it means that British culture is being eroded by the onslaught from the States. I have always considered myself an anglophile, whether it be music or films, but lately even Masterpiece Theatre has been a big disappointment. The scripts and certain actors have been less than satisfactory. The problem with films as well as books now is that there no longer is an auteur, it is always a collaboration, no one wants to take the sole responsibility. The scripts are re-worked, films re-edited, re-shot, etc. and it becomes one big mish-mush with plenty of mush. The Antonionni's and Truffaut's to name just two no longer exist. British as well as European audiences are seduced by everything that comes from the States because it comes with all that gloss, it shines. Yes, they can sell anything. Frankly, I fail to see the attraction. We, the selective few will suffer, because they do not cater to our taste with their distaste.

Perhaps this is preaching to the choir, but I would rather watch a mediocre (is there such as thing?!) British film than a "good" American one (ditto) - any day!!! I am an unreconstructed Anglophile and have been since the age of about 6. In fact, my father, in great alarm, threatened to disinherit me if I became a British Subject. That is true devotion to Old Blighty! I guess Hollywood does not care what I prefer. They have never catered to my tastes =P

(Marcia) That is true devotion to Old Blighty!...and to Laurence Olivier! ;-) a "good" American one I think there's good and bad in everything but have a low opinion about what's coming out of Hollywood lately. Ohmigod, Adam Sandler, a major movie star? Bring on those low-budget, sometimes big revenue generating (more often low, though) independent films. That's why I'm displeased about Miramax's swing toward standard Hollywood. The upside is that there's alot of variety in American films. Sometimes we all need a mindless movie (I laugh everytime I think of Matt Dillon ith those big teeth in 'Something about Mary'). Marcia, I was being facetious in my last post. Thoughts of endless tinkering to MLSF concern me...kind of like changing an answer on a multiple choice test. Leave well enough alone, Miramax! Chin up, Bethan! When I start thinking about how Colin would have been in various roles I succeed only in making myself miserable. (But then, what if he had been in 'The Avengers' and Ralph had been in 'SiL?') I hope you've contacted Miramax and have heard encouraging news.

(Allison)..Sorry if the above sounded anti American. Wasn't meant to be. Love the States (am off there later this week) but also want UK to retain something of our own culture which is distinct from the US. Have no fear....Americans have thick hides...we are used to "Yank-trashing". which has become a world-wide sport!! I , for one , do not take offense. Howvever, it is v. difficult for a small country to retain it's own culture. I see it more and more every time I go to UK. Why is everyone eating hamburgers from McDonalds...and french fries with ketsup? What happened to fish and chips...with vinegar? I'll tell you what happened...they sat back and became complacent and let American business take over. Watch out Tesco...Walmart execs are meeting with Tony Blair.AT&T is in co-hoots with BT.Amazon.co.uk beat Waterstones, WH Smith and Dillons at their own game. It's called "global economy" . Either you join in, or get left behind. The same with films...we all love British films...but they are the worst marketers...advertise? fergedaboutit. It's against the British personality to "sell" anything.Never mind themselves. And they have so much to share with the world...the "cradle of the best in our western literature..." so what are they featuring....Trainspotting!!

Quick Notes: Spoke with the BBC Scotland PR person today and she will be faxing me a production release shortly (after she finds out what the country code is!!) It will say who is in the cast. She met with Colin yesterday for the first time (lucky girl), but said she would be setting up a longer meeting with him shortly. Here is a BBC news item from January 28 that I don't think has been posted. However, please be aware there are some SPOILERS contained herein. Firth on the buses, but off the rails Actor Colin Firth will star as a madman in a comtemporary version of Don Quixote for a new British film. The Pride and Prejudice star - who also appears in Shakespeare in Love - will take the title role in Donovan Quick, which will be made for television later this year. Director David Blair said the film is superficially about "a Don Quixote character," but is set against the unlikely background of transport privatisation. Firth's character is in charge of axing bus services - but he gives the profits away to the needy, mirroring the hero of Cervantes' book. "He's been sectioned in a mental hospital and what unfolds is that he is tortured by what he appears to have been doing in the past. "He's arrested at the end and put back in a mental hospital," said Blair, who has also directed The Lakes and Takin' Over the Asylum for the BBC.

Nope...haven't phoned yet as have been at work. But, will do! But as a late night net surfee, I've just spotted a news item. NY Post - Liz Smith (who's she?) 26/4 Liz Taylor is travelling to Cannes to the Annual Cinema against AIDS Gala, to co-host with Sharon Stone. This year the movie Miramax is screening at the May 20 AmFAR (what's that?) fundraiser is "My Life So Far" starring Colin Firth, (yes!) MEM and MMcD. MLSF is directed by HH, produced by DP. Charity auction Of Princess Diana's dresses etc.

Check it out: Liz Smith

So does this mean Colin is going to Cannes? I think Livia might give him a push. She enjoyed the Oscars. :-)

I don't know if the Ameriacan film industry is stupid or just bury their heads in the sand. If you look at the awards the last few years, so many of the best are British. I would hate to see the British film Industry go the way the Americans have. The tv shows we get from them are so far superior to the ones made here it is pitiful. The Mysteries and comedies are so much better it makes me sick. The Brits go with talent in their stars whereas the Americans seem to look for pretty boys no matter how lacking they are in talent.

The film industry here (the States) is unbelieveably pathetic-- it makes me weep for the future of the arts. Seriously. I posted something about this in VirtViews over at RofP... From my observations, the way in which films get funded and how scripts are treated is a complete joke. Studio execs operate purely on trends...these past few years it's been period pieces, literary adaptations, etc... And the problem is-- the people giving the green light don't read anything BUT scripts, and have no idea what ma es for a good story, how complex plots can actually be, how complex a character can be, what good dialogue means, etc. because they're only attuned to reading things in the context of being adapted to the screen. You think anyone who funded SiL has ever read Shakespeare? 'Course not...but they have fat wallets and just enough businesss savvy to know that people will plop down $7.50 to see a period piece about William Shakespeare. My hope is that Brit filmmakers will feel comfortable enough to stay home an build an industry there, and develop film genres/styles that are unique to their situations-- without feeling the need to integrate themselves into the US market. Unfortunately, it doesn't work out that way, does it? There are some TV shows from the US that I actually think are quite good, and at the same calibre as international shows-- ER is a good example, I think. "Seinfeld" was always good-- but the humor doesn't always translate (didn't warm up to Germans the same way, from what I've heard). "Fraiser" is an excellent show, which I believe does relatively well abroad.

"Fraiser" is an excellent show, which I believe does relatively well abroad. It is brilliant and puts all UK sitcoms to shame.

Well, this may have something to do with MLSF being shown at the AIDS charity benefit in Cannes... (from Variety today): Morrison senior vp PR for Miramax NEW YORK -- Sally Morrison, a 14-year veteran of the American Foundation for AIDS Research, has joined Miramax as senior vp publicity. In her new New York-based post, Morrison will handle premieres and special events for Miramax and for Tina Brown's Talk Media venture. She will report to executive vp marketing and publicity Marcy Granata. At AmFAR, most recently as vp external affairs, Morrison coordinated fund-raising and public affairs activities for the charity.

(Karen), Spoke with the BBC Scotland PR person today and she will be faxing me a production release shortly (after she finds out what the country code is!!) It will say who is in the cast. She met with Colin yesterday for the first time (lucky girl), but said she would be setting up a longer meeting with him shortly. Karen, why would Colin be meeting with the PR person while he should be in pre-production rehearsals? PR is usually planned as a project wraps. Next time you speak with her please ask. Winter, I agree with you, it is a very sad state of affairs and as I said before it is because the auteurs are missing. Filmakers wrote and directed quality once and wehn they didn't they had people such as Harold Pinter writing. I do not watch any TV shows so I can't judge them but I'll take your word for it.

(Moon) why would Colin be meeting with the PR person while he should be in pre-production rehearsals? PR is usually planned as a project wraps. Last week, the word was *six more weeks of filming* Seems to me they are in production now. :) Sounded to me like she had just started on the job. Who knows, maybe she just wanted to meet him? Do you blame her? ;-D

I hope the fact that MLSF is being shown at Cannes means that all the problems if there be problems have now been ironed out and that there will be no further delay in its release either here or in the US.Bethan I can't remember if I asked you this but if Miramax give you a UK release date would you please ask if there is going to be a Premiere, when it is and if Colin is going to attend. Also I agree with Moon, it seems perculiar doing publicity before production has hardly started, I would have thought that would have come at the end. I would love to know who his co-stars are, haven't seen anything in the press but will keep my eyes open Karen.

(Ann), Who knows, maybe she just wanted to meet him? Do you blame her? Moi, never! :-D

Hi all: I never get a chance to visit due to this busy life I lead! I thought grandmothers and retirees were supposed to hang out in malls and play cards! Not that I would even if I DID have the time... Renate pointed out Karen's news to me, and I have it on the Appreciation pages, along with that gorgeous new Aussie Pic. I also did a labor of love on A Month in the Country. I recently bought a beautiful paperback edition from A Common Reader, a great company, BTW. The URL for AMITC - the book is: http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/amitc/home.html There is a link to A Common Reader in there if you want to order the book. Bye for now and be of good faith. Colin is more and more in the popular press these days. Murph

Good to have you on Spring, Murph. Your website is a gem...always a treat . We appreciate all that you do for Colin and us!! Come back often:-)

Yes, good to hear from you Murph, welcome, btw, your guestbook is still not working or is it me.

Murph, what a pleasure to have you in our company.

Girls, I'm surprised at you. Have you ever actually watched TV shows when traveling in other countries? Most of it is crap! Just like much of ours! We get the best from other countries...as well as their best films, etc. I don't mind trashing U.S. TV shows, films, ad nauseum 'cause most of it deserves to be trashed. But despite the games, polls and politics excellent entertainment and art in this country continue to be created. Don't throw it all in the same garbage heap. Karen, I am waiting with bated breath for news from the Beeb. Great work. Moon, better get the TV dusted off for ET. They always feature Cannes.

(Bethan) I noticed that a new film (a love story) funded by the Arts Council, and starring Ioan Gryffyd, who was in "Hornblower", is opening next week Bethan, do you know the name of this movie?

From the Entertainment Weekly summer movie preview edition (4/26/99): Also in June (movies were listed in alphabetical order) My Life So Far In this 1920s Miramax drama, a wealthy Scottish clan, including Colin Firth and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, is thrown into turmoil when big bro Malcolm McDowell brings home his young fiancee (Irene Jacob). "It's like the apple in paradise," says Mastrantonio. "It upsets the balance of the ecosystem." Bottom line: Oscar nominated director Hugh Hudson and producer David Puttnam (the team behind 1981's "Chariots of Fire") shoot for the summer's older, neglected art-film audience. (Moved to July) It doesn't say much (we know all this) but at least the target audience was defined and the movie wasn't trashed (many others were). They were not so hot on 'Notting Hill'--said Julia played herself and Hugh played the same character as he did in '4 Weddings.' Thanks for the info on the Miramax-MLSF-AmFar link, Karen (not to mention forthcoming DQ news). ET features Cannes as Heide pointed out. They also feature Sharon Stone and AmFar all the time (as well as Pamela Anderson Lee's former breasts--whoops, that was Access Hollywood!).

COLIN FIRTH STARS IN DONOVAN QUICK Colin Firth (Shakespeare in Love, Pride and Prejudice), Katy Murphy (Tutti Frutti, A Mug's Game), David O'Hara (Braveheart, The Match), Liz Smith (The Royale Family, A Private Function), and David Westhead (The Lakes, Mrs Brown) are to star in Donovan Quick - a few film for BBC ONE from the BAFTA award-winning team of writer, Donna Franceschild, and director, David Blair. Film will begin on locations around Glasgow from A ril 25. Colin Firth said today" "This is a unique script and I am looking forward to working with David Blair on the film." BBC Scotland's Head of Drama, Barbara McKissack, added: "I am delighted that we are attracting major talents both on and off the screen to work with us in Scotland." When the mysterious and well-spoken Donovan Quick takes up residence with the Pannick family things will never be the same again. The Pannicks are like any other dysfunctional family: Lucy Pannick drinks, her son Jim steals cars, her grandmother forgets to put on her clothes and her learning disabled brother, Sandy, runs model trains in his room all night. When multi-national bus company, Windmill Transport takes over the local trains and leaves Sandy no way to get to his day centre, Donovan starts up one-bus company with Sandy to replace the lost service. Against all the odds, the fledgling Quick and Pannick buses becomes so successful that the voracious Windmill Transport decides to poach the route for itself. However, like his inspiration Don Quixote, Donovan Quick manages to thwart Windmill at their own game, galvanising the community and transforming forever the lives of Lucy, Sandy, Gran and Jim in the process. Donovan Quick is an independent production from Making Waves Film and Television Limited, a company set up by writer Donna Franceschild and director David Blair who previously collaborated on two BBC Scotland series, Takin' Over the Asylum and A Mug's Game. The producer is Sue Austen and the executive producers are Barbara McKissack and Jane Tranter. April 22, 1999

I am delighted that we are attracting major talents... I am delighted BBC Scotland recognizes CF as a major talent. And now we know they just started filming this week. BTW, Bethan, Liz Smith is a gossip columnist based in NY but syndicated throughout the US. AMFAR is a charity dedicated to AIDS fund raising. I forget what the letters stand for but I believe it is sponsored by the actors union. Sharon Stone is the current chairperson. She is far better at fund raising and stating her political opinions than she is at acting (IMHO ;-))!

Thanks for the info., Karen. By the looks of it, there is no love interest at all. But is so good to know that he is the star. I wonder when it will be shown in the States. The way it looks, he may be done with it and then head off to Italy for a vacation. :-D

Thank you Karen for being our point-person with BBC Scotland. I wonder if the Scottish Arts Council is co-funding this. CF's role sounds somewhat like a "Michael Collins " ....this is a first for him in this category, isn't it? I hope it's a TV film...otherwise we're back to sweating out distributors for yet another big screen indie film.

Thanks Karen for the info. on DQ. Liz Smith is one of my favourite actresses, she will be a wonderful dotty grandmother and she has of corse worked with Colin before in Apartment Zero as one of the dotty ladies who lived in the same block of appartments as Adrian. BTW Evelyn I am sure it is for TV as it says it is a film for BBC1 and not just for the BBC which is very good as it gets a much bigger audience than BBC2 where Nostromo was shown. Also if he is filming for 6 weeks that takes him to June 6th,d you think that would prevent him appearing at Cannes on the 20th May?

Sorry about the typing errors. "wonderfully dotty"

she has of course worked with Colin before in Apartment Zero as one of the dotty ladies who lived in the same block of appartments as Adrian. I loved that crowd...they were a hoot. Also if he is filming for 6weeks that takes him to June 6th,do you think that would prevent him appearing at Cannes on the 20th May? Aw, he can fly over there one aft and be back the next day. He can't be in every scene. Hope he does....Cannes gets global publicity.To BBCs benefit, I would think.

Thanks for the info, Karen! This sounds very, very promising indeed! As I had hoped, the screenplay is by Donna Franceschild who wrote the brilliant "Taking over the Asylum", easily the best contemporary drama I've seen recently on TV. It was warm, funny, and very compassionate....and DQ seems to have similar themes. I haven't had time to check out all the actors (probably all good character actors) but Liz Smith is one of my favourites... "mice move in mysterious ways" (AZ)...she plays batty grandmothers to perfection!

PS I'm sure you'll see it in the US...the BBC sells most of its films for TV, and some do get a cinema release.

I just want to take a little time to thank everyone who sent me e-mails after my husbands surgery. Believe me they were a world of help. I can't remember if I answered all of them, I have been so tired, but I hope you see this.

Eileen: In that same issue of Ent. Wkly.,"Fever Pitch" is mentioned in the July section--"Colin Firth plays a teacher whose soccer obsession doesn't do much for his love life,..." AmFAR = American Foundation for AIDS Research. Gee, I love all this uplifting news!!

Thanks, KJArt. I missed the FP entry all together. Was there a "bottom line" for FP?

(Moon) By the looks of it, there is no love interest at all. Rats! (are we a bunch of complainers or what?) But is so good to know that he is the star. Yes, his name will be first, not third, not fourth, and not even said in the same breath as Tom Wilkinson or Martin Clunes. I wonder when it will be shown in the States. If BBC has targeted it for early next year (assuming it does not sell for theatrical release, which is still a possibility), then how much later are we usually? Six months? Longer?

(Bethan) "Taking over the Asylum", easily the best contemporary drama I've seen recently on TV. Oh dear, then why didn't we get it over here? I did ask the Beeb gal if any of the American networks (PBS or A&E) was participating and she said "not yet." If and when it gets definite that DQ is going to be on television, we may need to let the small programming minds that be that we want to see it (on something other than a converted PAL tape)!!

"Taking over the Asylum" was a six part series, produced by BBC Scotland, whereas DonQ is a film produced by an independent film company for BBC Scotland (as was "Mrs Brown"). I would think you've got a very good chance of seeing it (and not just as a converted PAL tape!)

Well...just to be on the safe side....If it plays on TV, I want a converted PAL tape...anyway, who can wait 6 months to see it here. By then we will have discussed the "pants off" ole Donovan Q.

Overnight air shipment too.

(Evelyn), By then we will have discussed the "pants off" ole Donovan Q. Yes, indeed! Please include me on that list, I can take the Pal tape after you're done converting.

Well, I finally managed to keep my word and phoned both Miramax and Working Title! Bridget Jones Diary......I asked when details of BJD would be available "Oh, not yet". I then specifically asked when we would know about the casting, and the reply was " oh,in about a month". Which is the most positive reply I've had! And on the assumption that they announce casting just prior to shooting, perhaps the shoot is imminent and CF will just have finished DonQ, which is very convenient! Right, MLSF. Spoke to young man, very smooth. Asked about date of release for MLSF in the UK. He checked, reported that there was "a blank against MLSF". Me "It's being released in the US, though" "Yes, July 16th". Me "I hope that a blank doesn't mean that it isn't going to br released here" "No, it just means that there's no release date set." Me "How long an interval is there normally between the US and UK." "Well, it varies with each film". Me "oh well, I'll ring back in two months". "Yes, I'm sure thi gs will have changed by then". So, no real info. I don't know why I suggested 2 months...I meant to ask when I should ring back. I'll try again in about 4 weeks. But it doesn't look as though it will open here first. Ann, perhaps you would like to try as well in about a month's time, or perhaps just after MLSF screens in Cannes! The more the merrier!

Re: MLSF release in UK Yes, Ann do call...the more people who inquire...the better. I'll call from the US as well. **** Off Topic: We have just been informed from Entertainment Films in UK (distrib)that.... "Good Machine (the sales agent for the film) will be taking This Year's Love to the Cannes Film Festival " (TYL is JE's new film). Good news at Cannes for the stars of P&P.!! ***** (Moon)Re; DQ.. I can take the Pal tape after you're done converting. Sorry, it goes back to UK if it has been taped for us from television.

(Evelyn) By then we will have discussed the "pants off" ole Donovan Q. Freudian slip, Evelyn? ;-) Thanks for making those calls, Bethan. Miramax played around with the US release date for so long that I'm not surprised they're doing the same in the UK. A month for BJD cast announcements? Do a hear a drum roll starting?

Yes, thanks Bethan, for making the phone calls, you are so brave, I seem to lose the use of speech when I make this sort of phone call, I guess I feel a bit intimidated but I will give it a go, as you say after Cannes would seem a good time. Did you ask for anyone in particular at Miramax?

Thanks Bethan. It makes perfect sense to ring back after Cannes. Those people are so insecure, they're probably looking for the feedback there before they make any decisions. Very curious about BJD, will he do it? The bets are on. ( Evelyn), Sorry, it goes back to UK if it has been taped for us from television. Then by all means include me in the taping.

This is germane to our Hollywood-bashing (and otherwise) discussion from a few days ago--I remembered reading it but couldn't find it until today. From Newsweek, 3/22/99, 'Buzz' section: Brush Up Your Shakespeare Memo to H'wood: while some 54 percent of Americans went to the movies in the past six months, the fastest-growing audience is upscale boomers with little tolerance for teen sex or blood. Translation: stick with the Bard. Perhaps findings such as these are adding to Miramax's rumored plans for a SiL sequel (I still think that's a bad idea since it would likely be Wessex-less and I don't care for sequels in general). But...mature audiences go for character-based dramas, which can only be good for talented character actors (know any good ones? Hee hee!).

(Eileen) Was there a "bottom line" for FP? Sorry, it was part of the "Plus" column (read: "also-rans") right at the end of July's listings--and was lucky to get that much coverage.

So am I to understand that now both MLSF and FP are being released in July, within a week of each other? Happy Days are Here Again:-)

(Eileen) Was there a "bottom line" for FP? (KJArt) Sorry, it was part of the "Plus" column (read: "also-rans") right at the end of July's listings--and was lucky to get that much coverage. That's what I thought. I suppose a few lines is better than nothing and at least the movie wasn't trashed. Frankly, I'm still surprised it's being released in the US. Thanks for the follow up!

So am I to understand that now both MLSF and FP are being released in July, within a week of each other? Happy Days are Here Again:-) Yippee!!! You said it Susan! :)

Q: What two novels are being adapted for a modern-day high school setting? A: Cyrano and Crime and Punishment (I think the latter will star the Little Rascals or music by the Rascals. This is getting out of hand. (ugh)

Karen, tell us you are kidding about high school settings for those...Please!! SB, another boring day at the grindstone?! =P

Murph has posted the interview with Colin from the Australian Mag "Good Taste" (how a propos) ...the one that accompanied that dishy new pic.

Sorry...hit the wrong button..... Go to: http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/goodtste.html

Thank you for that, Evelyn. Heaven Help Me!!! I had never seen that picture of him before. I am a damp crumple of helpless drool. How can he be so adorable and so wonderful and so talented?! I am all devotedness...=)

Marcia, I'm with you and everyone else too, I'm sure. That is one gorgeous man in that photograph! My, my, my (or mine, mine, mine). I love him when he's brooding but oh that smile. And how accommodating of him to wear an open necked shirt to allow us to admire that neck. Notice how the eye of the viewer is drawn down...wot! I so appreciate the news on the upcoming flix. At this point though, I can't get excited or disappointed about any set dates. I'm not going to believe anything (except DQ - the BBC won't let us down)until I'm sitting in the theatre watching the opening credits.

Whew! This man is gorgeous! Somebody please give me a glass of water! He looks sooo good in that picture...I agree with you about his neck, Heide; it looks truly delicious! Thank you!

What a smile. I wish I could get a copy of the magazine.

Wot! Indeed, that neck makes one want to bare one's fangs and get *really* close to him. Ummmm! nibble...nibble... ummmmm....=) I did not believe I was seeing SiL until I saw the beginning credits. We got to the theater about 15 minutes before anyone else showed up. A guy kept coming in and asking if we were waiting for SiL. We chorused, "yes!" each time. I will do the same for my next Firthly Fete, but I will not hold my breath.

Good Taste. What an apt name for the magazine which would publish this picture. Good article too.

A MONTH IN THE COUNTRY In the Times Metro section (Film listings)...London independent cinemas... National Film Theatre (0171-928-3232) is showing "A month in the Country" (PG 1987) Wed and Fri 8-30pm this coming week.

Just popping along to tell you (Evelyn, AnnW, Lizza and whoever else) that I've ordered my tickets for TRT today and given I'll get a flight ticket too next week I'll see you at the Donmar the 12th of June (if you'd like to). Back to deep lurkdom.

Great, Kirsten, I look forward to meeting you. Are your seats in the Stalls?

(Kirsten) I'll see you at the Donmar the 12th of June (if you'd like to). Are you kiddin? Of course we want you....whoopee! Party Time at the Donmar. Who else? C'mon Tineke...we want you too!! (There's a JE fan flying in from LA just for the play on the evening of the 12th!!)So far: Five of us and Ann's husband.

Evelyn, thanks for the link to that Australian article. Lord have mercy!! That's the CF pic I'd have on my bedroom wall if I were still single;-) BTW, JE's movie "Bedrooms and Hallways" was featured in the Boston International Women's Film Festival last week (on account of the director, Rose Troche). Is it going to be released in the states, or did I miss my one opportunity to see it?

(SusanMC) Re: "Bedrooms & Hallways.... Is it going to be released in the states, or did I miss my one opportunity to see it? As far as we know no distributor in the US yet. Also being featured at the Gay and Lesbian Film Festival on June 3 in NYC. I miss it by 4 days!!! Probably will be released in "selected cities".Rose Troche is a v. well-respected director in the indie crowd.

Hi. I am so glad to be able to log on. I am not even going to try to read everything I have missed since my great friends have kept me up to date. What pic are you guys talking about.??? I want to see. Ann and Evelyn: You know I wish I was well enough to come to London. Maybe soon.

Welcome back Rita. Point your mouse at the link below for a simply scrumptious picture of Colin from an Australian cooking mag. There's an article too, once you collect yourself and are able to read again. http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/index.html

(AnnW)Are your seats in the Stalls? No, got tickets in the circle, row B on the side. (Evelyn) Five of us and Ann's husband. I'm bringing two friends, though neither of them is a CF or JE fan, but may be we're able to infect them.

(Kirsten)(Evelyn) Five of us and Ann's husband. I'm bringing two friends, though neither of them is a CF or JE fan, but may be we're able to infect them. Super..... Kirsten, we'll convert them. Show them the picture from "Good Taste " Magazine....that'll do it. What a picture... and they talk about Brad Pitt's smile!! **** Good to have you back, Rita. We have missed you. Take care of yourself.

Evelyn:the picture from "Good Taste ". What a picture... and they talk about Brad Pitt's smile!! **** I would love to see that picture every time I visit Drool. It would look wonderful in the opening page.

It's nice to see you posting again, Rita. Hope you're feeling better.

Yes, its good to have you back Rita, take care.

Ladies, I am setting up Gi's Bridal Shower at Odds & Ends Topic #72. Remember to bookmark it. Please join me in the preparations. There's lots to be done, food, gifts, etc. Rita, I hope you can join us too. So come on Firthettes, join in the fun and let's show Gi how happy we are for her.

I LOVE that pic!! Someone sent me that pic last week. *sigh* He's gorgeous! EvelynC'mon Tineke...we want you too!! I wished I could, but June 12th is impossible for two reasons: 1: Exams, exams, exams,...argh! 2: Elections June 13th. We've got compulsory voting so I have to be in my hometown on Sunday morning. I might see it another day, sometime in July. I'm thinking of taking a two week architectural English language course in London. I think it'll be extremely interesting. I could easily combine this with an evening at the theatre.

I'm finally able to dip my toe in drooldom after an incredibly frustrating several days. Is anyone else having trouble getting into Spring? I have had to resort to surreptiously logging on from work. AOL suddenly seems to hate Spring and I haven't been able to get any of the boards to load :-(. Oh well, on to more important matters... The LA Times put out their summer sneak issue yesterday and I was quite relieved to see both FP and MLSF listed with a short blurb and ODB listed as starring (of course MLSF was listed last summer too, but that's another story.) On the down side, there was a somewhat sarcastic article in which the author had used his own bizarre system to categorize some of the summer films. MLSF was listed under "Un-catchy Titles" with another film whose name escapes me at the moment. Oh well, at least it got mentioned and not a lot of other indies did.

(Tineke)I wished I could, but June 12th is impossible we'll miss you. But glad you have tentative plans :-) (Jana)...MLSF was listed under "Un-catchy Titles" Thaat's because he didn't know about "The Roaring Game"... or "Son of Adam(which sounds biblical)...Makes MLSF sound brilliant.

(Jana) Is anyone else having trouble getting into Spring? I have had to resort to surreptiously logging on from work. AOL suddenly seems to hate Spring and I haven't been able to get any of the boards to load :-(. I've been having problems with AOL myself lately :( I've resorted to loading a Netscape browser and and opening Drool through that once i've logged onto AOL.

Aha, the pattern emerges. Did you hear that all your AOLers?

Listen to Mother Karen. She speaks the truth. If you are stuck with AOL (as I am on occasion when my ISP is "upgrading" their system, I use it only for dialup. I shrink it then boot Netscape =)) I am *most* unhappy that AOL bought them out, but I hope they will not deteriorate as a result. Anyway, Do Not use AOffLine's browser. Bookmarks stink and they are so lovely in Netscape. I think the USA should have complusory voting, too. imo!

I have been reading some of the reviews of MLSO written by some of the people who sat in on a preview in New York. Nothing but praise for C.F. One of them states that they think that he is the most underrated English actor of all especially here in the US. Like we don't know that!!!!!!!!!!!

Lucie, what reviews and where do I find them I would love to read them. Evelyn, are you okay, we have just head about the terrible Tornadoes in Oklahoma.

Oh and did you mean reviews for my Life So Far?

Just had a most marvellous Bank Holiday Monday...in terms of weather. Great filming weather for Colin up in Scotland! He'll have a chance to acquire a tan so that he doesn't look too pale and interesting in Cannes. BTW there was an article in one of the Sundays about gifted young Nigerian writers, and how they deserve to make a major breakthrough. There was much praise for a new play by a Nigerian dramatist at the National Theatre (much better than the reviews for David Hare's "Plenty") and there was an overall comment that it's time we see their work in the cinema because of the "magical" and "uplifting" qualities they bring to writing! So, SLOW may be ahead of the trend!

Another BTW, Caroline Goodall, Colin's "wife" in SLOW, is the star of a major drama series on TV tonight. I've only seen her as Michael Douglas's wife in something or other. Also, having read Cate Blanchett's reviews for "Plenty" (v.good but not outstanding) I think that of all the recent "screen stars on stage" CF has had the best reviews...along with Kevin Spacey. My son is planning a major tour of Italy for the summer (Youth hostels and rail travel)...I'm really quite envious.....he's leaving no stone unturned.(Except Umbria!) Welcome back Rita! I remember that ages ago you asked me about "The Judas Kiss" with Alan Rickman and Emma Thompson. As far as I know it has never been released in the cinema...only on Sky Box Office TV. I don't really understand this....except that distribution in the UK cinema is completely dominated by youth culture. In a recent survey in "Empire" and "Total Film" readers voted for the best films ever, ever made in the history of the cinema....and they were: Trainspotting and The Fully Monty! I give u ! :-)

Evelyn, are you okay,we have just head about the terrible Tornadoes in Oklahoma. Yes thank you...all is well...Spent a lot of time last evening and this morning in the basement...when the sirens go off, folks...I take cover!! **** Where are those reviews of MLSF, Lucie.? Again, I** plead**...firthettes...when you comment on a review or website pl.give us the URL so we can enjoy it too :-)

Ditto, Lucie! Were those reviews on-line or in print? We just can't read enough good things about ODB. I leafed through some movie mags today at B&N (had to fight my way through all the Star Wars crap--it was on every shelf, suspended from the ceiling, 'how tall is Jar-Jar' cardboard cutouts rising from the floor, etc. Absolute sensory overload) because they featured summer movie previews. Nothing about MLSF (or FP). More Star Wars, Notting Hill, Austen Powers and Eyes Wide Shut (which received an R rating, BTW--can't bode well for MLSF insofar as available screens as Karen pointed out). Glad to see LA Times didn't miss the boat (don't forget the original title: World of Moss!). Sunday's NY Times had a tiny blurb (smaller than last year's) for MLSF. Glad to read all is well, Evelyn. A tornado for you, an earthquake for Marcia--what else does mother nature have in store for Spring? (Bethan) He'll have a chance to acquire a tan so that he doesn't look too pale and interesting in Cannes. LOL!

(Evelyn) Yes thank you...all is well. Oh, well that's good news. I came to drool specifically today to see if someone heard from you. Now I can go back to stressing over my Physical Comp project...see you in a week (when school's over) chickies. :-)

Wonderful balm for the stresses of life, catching up on your posts I mean!!!

Thanks to everyone for all the snippets they have garnered re films etc How are you Rita, good to have you back. Evelyn, so glad you are safe and sound. The Aussie pic is just fabulous isn't it, do we know when it was taken? Would love to linger longer!!!!

(Eileen) Eyes Wide Shut (which received an R rating, BTW...) Boggles the mind, does it not?!! Payoffs to the MPAA would make the Salt Lake City Olympic bribery seem like pocket change... And they had to cut snippets from The Advocate?! Spoke to Evelyn earlier. Tornado's path was a mere 2 miles away. No damage at her house, but it was scary.

Jana and other AOL users. I had a hard time last week too. I've never had a problem with Explorer before so it might just be temporary but I loaded Netscape Navigator for free anyway and now use that to log in. Just search for Netscape and you'll find all your options. Remember to go back into Windows to start Netscape once you load it. It doesn't work well for me in Chat though so I go back to Explorer for that. Other than that, I have no problem with AOL. What is Caroline Goodall's filmography? Too lazy to go into IMDB, sorry. I have no idea what she looks like and since we're unlikely to ever see this film, I'll have to let my imagination play instead. Evelyn, I haven't picked up a newspaper or turned on the TV in two days. Wha' happened? (Karen) Payoffs to the MPAA would make the Salt Lake City Olympic bribery seem like pocket change... Good one, dear. Think they snipped or Tom Cruise really does have that much pull?

Murph must have a lot of friends and I know why. She's heard from someone who has told her about a new BBC radioplay Colin will be performing in in June and she, of course, wants everyone to know about it. Thanks, Murph, for sharing. Here's the info: Rupa Lucian Who gets BBC Radio?

Anyone who has downloaded RealAudio and RealVideo can get all the foreign short wave services. BBC, included.

http://www.AudioNet.com/bbc/ http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/schedules http://www.real.com/ to download the software to listen It is free.

Heide, I believe Caroline Goodall was in "Schindler's List" -- played the Jewish girl Ralph Fiennes' character was enamoured with. Thanks for the info re: Rupa Lucian. Is one to conclude, since Colin has first billing, that he "plays" the Rumanian soldier rather than the English husband?

http://www.real.com/realguide/index.html Another possible source of information and the place which has RealAudio.

Caroline Goodall played Mrs. Schindler. Embeth Davidtz (sp?) played the prisoner who worked in Amon's house. She was just in The Gingerbread Man. Ooh Marcia, I just checked out the BBC World Service sites. Neat. Is there a way to put it directly on tape?

The MLSF reviews are in Murph's site . In MLSF 4-27-99 The comment about him being the most under rated English star is under viewers comments.

I'll most certainly record the drama and make tapes for anyone who wants! Instant replay. But you can all get BBC World Service and the reception will be excellent....when we lived abroad we listened to it all the time. Just check out the wavelengths...details must be at the BBC website. The quality of radio drama can be outstanding...you really listen and "see" in your mind's eye. And you get the opportunity to concentrate on the voices.

(SusanMC),Is one to conclude, since Colin has first billing, that he "plays" the Rumanian soldier rather than the English husband? He does seem into doing accents. Once again we'll miss that voice. It does tend to change with accents. If this happens end of June, I shall be in Italy, and would appreciate a tape once I'm back in Aug. A loaner will do. :-) I hope Colin will be ready for a vacation in July. Bethan, tell your son that in Menaggio on Lake Como they have the best youth hostel in Italy. The owners love to cook and even the locals eat there. Of course, Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Lucky me who always get to spend a month there.

(Moon) Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places in Italy Ooh, I was through that area last summer (Lake Maggiore, too). It certainly is beautiful! Yes, lucky you! Wonderful news about the radio play. Thanks for the links, Marcia. Depending on when it's aired, I may take you up on your generous tape offer, Bethan. I'm very encouraged that ODB's projects are lining up! (Karen) Payoffs to the MPAA would make the Salt Lake City Olympic bribery seem like pocket change... (Heide) Good one, dear. Think they snipped or Tom Cruise really does have that much pull? Hee hee! I think it's a combination of both. Or else those shots we're seeing (and seeing and seeing and seeing) is the film's most risque...naahh. It's Tom.

I just popped over to Murph's site to check out those reviews (per Lucie). They're not really reviews--it's that piece from 'Ain't it Cool News' we all saw back in Feb. (the one we debated was old vs. recent). A few "viewers" responded to the review. They did *not* see the film. They sound like us--CF fans, with only good things to say, of course!

(Heide) Think they snipped or Tom Cruise really does have that much pull? (Eileen) It's Tom. It's Tom and Greed. Theater owners who saw the preview probably put up a huge ruckus because they wouldn't be able to cash-in on the 17 and unders (i.e., one of their bigger audiences) who couldn't get into The Phantom Menace! Cruise threatened about re-editing, didn't he? He seems to make good on his threats. Why do they even bother with ratings?

Have checked out the broadcast.com linkup with BBC World Service and it does work. Now to figure out how to tape off it... Must be a way. There's that little jack on one of my speakers for earphones. Could that somehow be connected with a boombox to record? Marcia???? Bethan, BBC World Service is picked up by National Public Radio in many places in the US as an FM radio station. Unfortunately, they only seem to broadcast the news at periodic intervals--not the radio play of the week. It appears one would have to have a shortwave radio for that.

Well let's hope they don't broadcast it on June 12th!! I want to listen as it goes out. JF was of course in "War and Peace" , that's as in Firth not Fiennes!! Made good Sunday listening! Of course he cannot quite deliver like his big brother!!

If you are within the broadcast range of WGBH Boston, you can listen to the World Service on the SAP (Second Audio Program) of your hifi VCR or television. Just turn on WGBH/2 and then turn SAP to the ON position. Voila! BBC WS. Just hope that the broadcast doesn't coincide with one of GBH's Descriptive Video Service broadcasts (e.g. Mystery, Sesame Street, Masterpiece Theatre, etc.) which will always get priority. Otherwise, plug your tape deck into the Line Out connection of your computer's audio card and go to the WS web site. This can be problematic if you connection is slow, but better than nothing. Final option for those of us in North America is to buy a short wave radio (your AM/FM radio won't cut it). Not many people own these (unlike in the Rest of the World, where they are a necessity of life and travel). The Play of the Week tends to be on very early AM on Sunday for me here on the East Coast of the US. I haven't listened in a while. Don't forget that the times listed on the BBC site are GMT. You must convert to your timezone, allowing for Daylight Saving Time if necessary. Chris

(Karen) It's...Greed Goes without saying! Why do they even bother with ratings? V. good question. I can't recall the last movie receiving the dreaded NC-17.

Thank you Chris for the additional info. Now to figure that out!! Speaking of Fiennes (however briefly), did anyone catch the Bravo special on the family Fiennes? It was primarily about their mother Jini, who wrote under her maiden name of Jennifer Lash. She also painted. Her last book, Blood Ties, was published posthumously. There were home movies and interviews with all the kids. Amazingly, Jake doesn't look that similar to Joe, his twin.

somehow this topic is in my forgotten field, how'd it happen? I was wondering why it was never coming up. How do I "unforget" it?

Thank you Chris...best bet for me is a short wave.

I listen only to shortwave radio and except for some very powerful relay stations, the propagation has been so poor lately, they are all but silent during daylight hours. Evenings I can get anywhere via receilver. However, this is not a problem with the Internet and foreign broadcasts. That comes to us directly from satellite and is crystal clear I have taping capabilities on both the receiver on my desk and via my PC speakers. One can either place a small recorder in front of your speaker (either on ), Or, if your tape recorder has an audio input jack, plug a patch cord between the headphone hole on your speaker and the audio input on your recorder!

Anyone gonna tell me how I can re-activate this topic again?

Go look on the main Drool page for those "forgotten" links and there's a mysterious "n/f" thing on the left. I'm not sure how any of those things work though. I've never designated anything to forget. If those things don't work, ask the boys sitting on the Porch conference.

This is from "Help" Laura: Possible ranges All | New | Activity within last week | Forgotten With the "All" command, you may choose to view all the topics and responses in the conference, and not just the ones that have seen recent activity. You may also select to see only topics with "new" activity. That is, topics that have new respones since the last time you visited. Or you may select to see only those topics that have seen activity within the last 7 days. Or choose to see the topics you previously chose to "forget."

I've done that, but it's firmly stuck in the forgotten field:( What I have been doing is just clicking on the last 5 msg on the bottom of the page, in hopes that it would "re-activate" it. No such luck.

Thank you, Karen, for your help. I forgot to include that in the message above.

Duh, there is a remember button right at the top and at the bottom!

Eileen, where exactly where you in Lake Como? I know it is a favorite place with Brits and I am always on the lookout for you know who.

Director John Boorman has come aboard the remake of "The Sea Wolf," an adaptation of the Jack London novel that Imagine Entertainment's Brian Grazer is producing for Columbia Pictures. A fall start date is being eyed. The 1904 novel centers on a bloodthirsty sea captain who reigns tyrannically over his vessel, the Ghost. When he picks up survivors of a capsized ferryboat, they soon realize their chances of getting off the Ghost alive are poor. "I've been wanting to bring this story to the screen for about 15 years," Grazer said. "I'm thrilled that John is now on board. He has this mano a mano dynamic in his films going back as far as 'Deliverance.' It's a dynamic that's different every time, but it's always compelling and thrilling." ************* Mmmmm, do you think there'll be anything for Colin?

Item about "Arden Shakespeare" going online just now on the news. Accompanied by a Wessex clip or two!! Funny how these little unexpected moments create a delicious shiver or two!!

BTW an article in The Times yesterday on the highlights of the arts in Britain for the Summer mentiond TRT in its list of plays to see!! Karen, something nautical without a love interest for ODB? Now there's a thought----!!

I must post, for I am all excitement. A few days ago I e-mailed Phaedra Cinema, the company that will release FP in the U.S. and I got a reply from the v.p.of distribution. "We will be playing the film in Florida (Colin seems to have a lot of fans in FL!), and will do everything we can to get the film to Tallahassee. The film is scheduled for release in late July in NY and LA and will expand to other areas of the country in early to mid August." The message goes on to say that I can contact them in early Aug. for an update on the expanded release. I am so excited. Even if the film doesn't come to this forgotten corner, I'm sure I'll drive to the nearest place it does.

Yippee!!!! Good News Indeed Lidya!!! :) *Dance of Joy commences*

Great news, Lidya!! Time for the rest of us (i.e., non-Floridians) to make ourselves heard. Here's the URL: http://www.phaedracinema.com I wanna see those Arsenal boxer shorts, that left shoulder grind and those adorable dimpled cheeks on the BIG screen and that soundtrack in Dolby blaring all around me.

Karen, I saw that Fiennes family thing too and thought it was charming. But then, I'm an RF fan too (OK, everyone, don't shoot me, please;-)) Amazing how much Ralph and the second brother, Magnus, look alike -- much more so than the twins. Re: Sea Wolf -- I remember seeing the '40s version years ago -- starred Edward G. Robinson and John Garfield. Can't see Colin in the Robinson part (the captain) -- he's not old enough. He could play the Garfield part -- basically the handsome, studly guy who saves the day. And there was a love interest in it for the Garfield character -- although she might have been written into the script and not in the original Jack London story.

(Lidya), We will be playing the film in Florida (Colin seems to have a lot of fans in FL!), Well have I been good or what? (sending cheers from Miami) The Independant Film Channel will broadcast the Cannes Film Festival's Opening Ceremonies on May 12, at 1:30 p.m. EST. Let's hope we get a glimps of ODB.

Can't keep up with all these postings, so I hope I'm not repeating anything anyone else has posted! The BBC World Service play.....I phoned the BBC as I couldn't find the World Service on our shortwave radio. I've now located it on 6195 very loud and clear. CF's Roumanian play should be aired during the weekend of the 26/27 June, 22.30 and 05.30 British Summer Time. Everyone in the UK, south of Birmingham, and Europe, should get it on medium wave 648 without any problem. In the USA and elsewhere, I don't know, but I was told that you can very easily listen in to the World Service onlline via the BBC website...just find World Service, click on "audio".

You can reach them at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice I will be in Italy then and would appreciate a copy to listen to on my return. I can send it back once I'm done. Merci!

Bethan, thanks very much for the info.

I can't keep up with the posts either...and am glad Laura's problems are solved!! (Karen) Re; The Sea Wolf....mmmm, do you think there'll be anything for Colin? I hope so...but a love interest in that one? I don't remember one.The fall staring date would be good...aft school holidays. **** (Susan), I'm an RF fan too (OK, everyone, don't shoot me, please;-)) So am I, Susan...they have to shoot two of us.!! ***** OK...anybody interested in hearing about the Donmar Meeting on June 12th? ...I'll tell you anyway...Tineke is coming now and so is Aishling!!! We're up to 5 from Spring. (I'm working on the JE fan from LA to come on to Spring....) *****More Good Jennifer News: Contacted the publicist at the Donmar (same guys as did 3 DOR!!)Jennifer is slated to be on the cover of Harper's UK in mid June. And also on the cover of The Evening Standard Hot Tickets...(don't have a date ).She's good for covers..did a super Tatler one in August 1997. Also courtesy of Aishling we have a new TV interview of Jennifer coming. Sorry, this is OT...but I am finding lots of lurkers are JE fans.

Don't know why "News" is highlighted...what did I do wrong? ***** Off to Phaedra!!

Karen, I think you've spotted something very interesting in the item about John Boorman and "The Sea Wolf". I read the novel several years ago, and remember really liking it (I like Jack London and I like books about the sea!). I'm rather vague now about the actual story line but there is a great role for Colin. The narrator is Humphrey something-or-other, a gentleman scholar in his mid thirties, who joins the crew of the Ghost as a working seaman, and the story is mainly about his relationship with Wolf Larsen the captain. it's interesting that Boorman went to see 3DOR...was there a reason for this? I would definitely watch the casting on this one...but I also want to see him in "The Lion in Winter"!! BTW, news report in UK press...hordes of British actors and directors are setting up stalls in the Cannes film mart, regarded as the best opportunity for selling British independent films, which are often overlooked in the major US marts. As Colin will (probably) be in Cannes for MLSF, and as SLOW was filmed on location in Cannes, isn't this a good sales opportunity? Or am I too simplistic? :-) Saw Caroline Goodall (CF's screen wife in SLOW) in a TV drama last night. Didn't care for the drama, but she's a very classy actress.

Forgot to mention, there's a lot of info about Ad de Bont, the dramatist who wrote Rupa Lucian, via Ask Jeeves. URL is http://www.aj.com aand search on Ad de Bont. He seems well known in Germany and writes about refugees...another play is about Bosnia.

From The Evening Standard; "Britain Carries Cannes" ..... Liz Taylor is back in service as host for the annual AMFAR Aids benefit, together with dog Sugar. Expected to join Liz and Sugar are Elton John, Liz Hurley, and Prince Albert of Monaco. The gala presentation that evening: My Life So Far, directed by Hugh Hudson, starring Colin Firth, Irene Jacob, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Malcolm McDowell. Whether Liz Taylor can match Sharon Stone's tango of last year remains to be seen. I think for a Gala Presentation, the star of the film is expected to show up. His night to shine!!

Here's some more: Another version of Jack London�s novel The Sea Wolf is set to go before the lens, with John Boorman (Deliverance, The General) directing. The book, which follows the story of a mad seaboat captain who rescues the survivors of a ferry disaster and then proceeds to harass them, has been on the big screen before, most notably starring Edward G Robinson in 1941. Then a few years ago, the film was all ready to go with Ron Howard directing Nic Cage. With Boorman now on board, the script is being rewritten by David Koepp, whose credits include Jurassic Park and Mission: Impossible. Koepp�s taste for big action flicks should contrast nicely with Boorman�s preference for character and story and Columbia, the studio behind the picture are hoping the collaboration with make for an intelligent blockbuster similar to Crimson Tide. There are no casting details as yet and it is not known whether Cage is still interested in the lead role. Koepp�s taste for big action flicks should contrast nicely with Boorman�s preference for character and story and Columbia Contrast nicely??? hmmmm

Bethan, my thoughts exactly re C.G Great part for her, shame about the drama! But then it was ITV!

(Moon) Eileen, where exactly where you in Lake Como? We literally passed through the area on our way to Lugano from St. Moritz. The next day we saw Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore and were off to Zermatt (a whirlwind tour, as you can see). (SusanMC) He could play the Garfield part -- basically the handsome, studly guy who saves the day. Sounds great...but would he do it (see comments in 'Good Taste' article at Murph's site)? Columbia would probably want a bigger name for this part (hey, Adam Sandler is number 50-something on Hollywood's "Most Powerful" list [cough..gag..choke]--a sad state of affairs, no?). Thank goodness it's Boorman. We know he has great taste in actors ;-) (Bethan)The narrator is Humphrey something-or-other, a gentleman scholar in his mid thirties, who joins the crew of the Ghost as a working seaman, and the story is mainly about his relationship with Wolf Larsen,the captain. Ah-ha! I think you're on to something... (Evelyn)I think for a Gala Presentation, the star of the film is expected to show up Please, please, please, please! And I haven't even seen FP yet! It's great to see MLSF featured (at last) when so much attention has been focused on other summer films. Even 'Newsweek' failed to mention it in their summer preview piece (and they even had an art-house category). Liz Taylor is back in service...together with dog Sugar and we know how Colin likes dogs...anyone know which evening the AmFAR benefit is?

Evelyn, I believe the AmFAR benefit is on the 20th May, but I'm not absolutely sure. Karen do you know?

According to the Liz Smith column on Murph's news page, you are correct, Ann. May 20th... don't hit me I just don't see Colin going to Cannes even if Livia begs and Harvey threatens. Hanging around all those BEAUTIFUL people and BIG stars like Liz Taylor and Pia Zadora just doesn't seem like Colin.

We won't hit youBefore SiL, I would not think he'd attend either. True, I can't see him sitting at a beachfront cafe, wearing dark shades and sipping whatever-it-is-they-drink (Orangina? Hahaha), hob-nobbing with the hoity toity crowd (like Pia Zadora--LOL). That's not his style. But I can see he and Livia zipping in just for the evening. the AmFAR benefit is on the 20th May Thanks for answering my question so quickly, Ann and Karen. I shall make sure my butt is firmly settled on the couch for the entertainment shows on the 21st!

Yes I agree Karen.

He wouldn't be the DB we love so well if he actively sought out and participated in such "events". But just a whirlwind visit? Could be. Glasgow is a good departure point!! Perhaps he will go to support Sir David, we,ve seen how well he and John Madden get on, maybe this is a reason, who knows? Eileen keep us fully posted, video on!!

(Karen)..... Hanging around all those BEAUTIFUL people and BIG stars like Liz Taylor and Pia Zadora just doesn't seem like Colin. He might not have a choice.....hey, no one thought he'd show at the Academy Awards parties...and he attended the Miramax Family party on Saturday night. Like it or not...he is part of the Miramax family. M. has been good to him....a little pay-back wouldn't harm him.

Besides,his good friend, Kristin Scott Thomas is the Cannes MC this year.

Evelyn, there is now also a reason why both Rosemary Harris and Jennifer should be there.

(Karen), don't hit me I just don't see Colin going to Cannes even if Livia begs and Harvey threatens. Hanging around all those BEAUTIFUL people and BIG stars like Liz Taylor and Pia Zadora just doesn't seem like Colin. It's the new Colin, Karen. I think he wants to be a bigger part of the scene. Afterall, he did get the best reviews at the Donmar in a while. He has movies coming out, he went to the Oscar parties, all the SIL premieres. And he has a new house and a wife with expensive taste in clothing. Livia of course will be thrilled. Also as Evelyn said, I think Harvey will insist. Evelyn, you only skimmed the north side of Lake Como. You must do Bellagio and the Tremezzina to really see it. Maybe next year?

Sorry Evelyn, that should be Eileen. I guess your on my mind because of all the photos I keep seeing of OK.

(Ann)Evelyn, there is now also a reason why both Rosemary Harris and Jennifer should be there. I dunno about Jennifer...(she didn't go last year..although they screened Bedrooms and Hallways) ....but I would think maybe Mum would be there...although she is down the list in the cast. But MLSF is Colin's Film ....the first in a long time that he has starred in for Miramax.And he is the one that makes it "sink or swim".

(Lizza)But just a whirlwind visit? Could be. Glasgow is a good departure point!! And we know he whipped himself away from 3DOR rehersals to attend Berlinale on behalf of SiL. (Evelyn) Besides,his good friend, Kristin Scott Thomas is the Cannes MC this year. Another reason! (Although I do think he'll stick to the benefit and skip the festivities--Pia or not!). But MLSF is Colin's Film ....the first in a long time that he has starred in for Miramax.And he is the one that makes it "sink or swim". Indeed!

OK, I'll be looking for Colin to be hanging out with Arnold "The Terminator" Schwarzenegger and doing deals!! ;-) About that radio play, I know someone here who has a CD writer with her new PC. What better use than taking it for a test drive with Colin's new play. I won't name names

Please, please, please, please.... I can see he (and Livia)... - I can see another example of the English language losing its inflections. Why is it happening? Is it inevitable? Any language buffs out there?

I'm sure he'll appear at Cannes......it's an easy return shuttle flight from Glasgow to Nice! And the AMFAR Charity event sounds like a big event in the social calendar over there....lots of well-heeled ladies of a certain age (more Rolls Royce than Volvo!) "The Seawolf"....Hmmmm.....it cetainly doesn't seem to have the right screenwriter, but with Boorman at the helm it could still be a good project, and I hope Colin is involved! Evelyn, I'm very happy to hear that you weren't badly affected by the tornados. It must have been an awful experience.

it cetainly doesn't seem to have the right screenwriter, but with Boorman at the helm it could still be a good project, and I hope Colin is involved! Found the entire paragraph rather convoluted or a non sequitar. Screenwriter of blockbuster action films + very good director of small character-driven films = great blockbuster action film. Lots of examples where this doesn't happen. Do you think Colin would be up for the same part as a Nicolas Cage? Cage can act (or used to); remember Leaving Las Vegas.

ACK!! One can only hope with Ron Howard out of the picture, so is Nicolas Cage. Nothing against Nic but you know he'd have the "John Garfield" role which would only leave the "Edward G. Robinson" role for Colin. Don't do that to us!! The only reason we're even speculating on this, I suppose, is that Boorman was talking to Colin at the Donmar. I know this film would never cross my mind otherwise. I wouldn't be surprised to find he'd be in Cannes for a night. But watch the entertainment shows on the 20th as well as the 21st - don't forget the time difference.

(Heide) ACK!! Nothing against Nic but you know he'd have the "John Garfield" Of course he would, although Colin is more of a John Garfield (i.e, sensitive) type than Nic IMO, even Nic in his pre-Con Air days!! ;-) which would only leave the "Edward G. Robinson" role for Colin ACK!! Don't even think it!!

(Bethan)Evelyn, I'm very happy to hear that you weren't badly affected by the tornados. It must have been an awful experience. Thank you, Bethan, I live southwest of Oklahoma City...sort of where the tornado began...it passed 2 miles west from me(as an F1 category) ( I was safe in basement).Then as it veered north, it intensified and hit Okla. City as an F 5 (250 miles per hr winds.It was scary around here but no damage sustained because the winds were not strong enough at that level....thankfully.Portions of Okla. City have been leveled.Very sad.

Evelyn. I have seen the pictures, very scary. What a miracle that the baby girl was found. I"m glad you had a place to go, it seems like few did. They said on the news today that the winds reached over 300 mph. Worse than a hurricane. At least one has time to prepare for a hurricane.

Evelyn, I have been thinking of you all week but have not been able to access Spring (had to resort to the laptop from work and a toll call to get on now). So glad you're OK! The destruction a tornado can do is truly terrifying. Heide, thanks for the instructions about Netscape. I'll see if I can manage it because &!*@&^#*! AOL does not appear to want to cooperate with Spring. And now I have to try and figure out how to tape the BBC? Heavens, wish I wasn't such a techno-retard :-(

(Bethan)CF's Roumanian play should be aired during the weekend of the 26/27 June, 22.30 and 05.30 British Summer Time Arghh! We have guests that weekend. How shall I be able to sneak away for a quiet listen to the radio? Glad you escaped the worst of the tournado, Evelyn. I have just returned from the US. I was watching CNN as a bad weather warning flashed up for our area. I was on the 25th floor at the time and thought .. now what do I do? Fortunately it passed us by but the pictures from Oklahoma were terrifying. Those poor people.

According to Lisbeth's Timeline webpage Colin is to be in Cannes on the 20th May, to attend the Gala Presentation of MLSF, I think this is excellent, and bodes well for the film. Great Colin (and Livia?).

I have a feeling we will see him on David Letterman and Jay Leno this summer as well. He seems ready for it all!

(Arami) Please, please, please, please.... I can see he (and Livia)... - I can see another example of the English language losing its inflections. Why is it happening? Is it inevitable? Any language buffs out there? Oh, my! I didn't know we were being graded! Do forgive me my sins, but "he and Livia" sounds better to me than "him and Livia." Had I been paying more careful attention, I suppose I could have written "Livia and he" or "Colin and Livia." Is the subject matter herein getting so boring that one must resort to this? (Ann) According to Lisbeth's Timeline webpage Colin is to be in Cannes on the 20th May Goody! Now let's see if the story receives any air time. Thanks for reminding us about the time change, Heide (ET ran a story on SiL's London premiere on the actual night it took place). Let us hope that 'Star Wars' doesn't overrun the shows (it opens on the 19th).

Ann, thanks for confirming the Cannes event for us!! We were right Ladies! ITV is reporting every morning on breakfast news, so we may be lucky you never know. Good to hear the radio timings too, thanks.

Is the subject matter herein getting so boring that one must resort to this? With Arami on the case, one must check and double check his or her grammar. And welcome back, Arami, you've been terrificly quiet lately!

Talking of being quiet these days----- where are you Ben? Buying a ticket for an Ehle Extravaganza? We need to hear your drooling, it's a bit quiet these days for us, well until May 20th!!

one must check and double check his or her grammar IMO life's too short, as long as the content is not unintelligibly garbled. There's so many other things to talk about. Let's get back to the subject matter at hand...and just have fun. I read awhile ago that Ben was having computer trouble, Lizza. No doubt he has been informed somehow of said Ehle Extravaganza!

I know that Ben will be up here in Boston/Cambridge area in a couple of weeks. If he doesn't log on or check back, I will gladly tell him that his harem is/was looking for him:) I believe he'll be quite happy to hear it. (was that grammatically correct? ;p)

his harem is/was looking for him Hee hee Happy to hear that Ben is OK Laura, I was beginning to worry!

Winter posted on VV re: an article in Redbook Mag that Liam Neeson is quitting Hollywood. There was a corresponding article on the Press Association website quoting him as saying that "actors are just puppets in Hollywood"...he will continue his theatre career, however. Actually, I have always thought that Colin could play the roles that LN has had...only better. Esp. Jean Valjean in Les Miserables. Perhaps now they will be offered to ODB:-)

I didn't know we were being graded! You are not. The reason for my linguistic nit-picking is that these boards are not only public - they are international. I know that some of us whose first language is not English hope to improve our knowledge by observing native English speakers. And I have always been very curious about the recent changes. "he and Livia" sounds better to me than "him and Livia." Yet if he had been on his own, would you say "I saw he"? There seems to be a curious inconsistency in these inflections and I am determined to study it. Is the subject matter herein getting so boring that one must resort to this? Not at all. In a way it has a lot to do with CF himself. He has recently said that actors have a very strong and intense relationship with language. I have yet to catch him making an inadvertent mistake in his speech. :-)

Oh, and Laura, thanks for your welcome! I didn't know you cared... ;-p (Yes, I was away for a while).

Murph has re-designed the front page of her website....with the new "Good Taste" picture of Colin as the focal point. http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/index.html It's super!! Thanks Murph!!

(Eileen) I didn't know we were being graded! Oh but you are! And you've received top marks for "plays well with others" and we all know that all that counts in the real world. ;-)

Hey all-- for some reason, my spring account has "forgotten" 118, and it's been murder trying to figure out how to get it back on my hot list. Still mulling over the decision about joining some of you at the Donmar. I currently have a ticket on hold, which I must purchase by tomorrow night. $575 RT from L.A.! This was through CheapTickets, the ticket consolidator. The price is somewhat reasonable...Ja oder nein? Ben has been swamped with work-- his students had their final exams, on top of turning in their end of turn papers. I'm in the same predicament. He may be lurking, though. Ben...you out there? (Evelyn)Actually, I have always thought that Colin could play the roles that LN has had...only better. Esp.Jean Valjean in Les Miserables. Perhaps now they will be offered to ODB:-) I don't think ODB has acquired that "weathered" look of maturity right now...I can't see him taking LN's roles just yet. His face hasn't aged enough (and his butt's still firm). What do ya'll think?

their end of turn papers What the? I meant, "end of term papers"

Can you see ODB as a Star Wars character.

Winter, I had the same problem, just go to the top of the page and click on REMEMBER. Voila, it works!

At least he explained his *retirement* plans. Hopkins, who just started on Mission Impossible 2 and has supposedly tentatively agreed to be in the Silence of the Lambs sequel still has NOT explained what retirement means to him!! ;-) Neeson backpedals on quitting films NEW YORK (CNN) -- As the saying goes, a quitter never wins and a winner never quits. Along those lines, actor Liam Neeson says he has no real intentions of quitting film work, despite what he says in the June issue of Redbook. "I'm getting out. I'm retiring from movies next year," Neeson says in the Redbook article. "Honest to God, I don't want to do it anymore." Now, the 46-year-old actor and father of two says he was just letting off some steam. "It was something that came up from finishing a long period of work onstage and on film," Neeson says now. "It's not true. I just was venting a bit of anger. I just was missing my family. And missing being on a trout stream." Given that the star of "Rob Roy" and "Schindler's List" has a lead role in this week's avidly awaited release "Star Wars, Episode I: The Phantom Menace," Neeson has reason to reconsider the, uh, force of his original comments.

Can you see ODB as a Star Wars character Yup. He's a versatile actor....who would have guessed that he could have been the swarmy Wessex....

Arami, if you're interested in studying English, I can think of more effective methods worthy of your pursuit than posting critical comments on a fan discussion board. Feel free to e-mail me and we can discuss them. Many of us are committed to encourage others to de-lurk. Some lurkers will not post because they are concerned about the quality of their English. Fear of criticism is surely a disincentive. To those I say *never mind* your English skills. It's your *thoughts* that count. Thanks, Karen, I do my best :-) During last night's entertainment shows, Liam was firmly retracting his "I'm quitting" comments while he and the other Phantom Menace stars defended their film against not-so-favorable criticism (see? There is a God!). All of a sudden PM is not expected to break box office records. Watch--if it does, the stories will say "we knew it all along!" Gotta love that Hollywood fickleness.

(Arami)The reason for my linguistic nit-picking is that these boards are not only public Arami is right in that people who are blessed with some other first language than English do observe here in detail how you native speakers use your language. Any flaws you make catch extremely easily, so watch yourself! :-))) BUT constantly picking at other peoples� language flaws is the best way of spoiling any fun anywhere and in Drool it happens surprisingly often unlike in the other Spring boards. I believe that Drool is linguistically demanding enough to scare some native speakers too!

Any flaws you make catch extremely easily, so watch yourself! :-))) Did you mean 'are caught?' Speaking for myself, I can assure you the syntax used in my Master's thesis is quite different that that which I employ on an informal discussion board. The latter is loaded with dialect, colloquialisms and the like. If it is perfect, proper, textbook English any of you seek--you will not always find it here. The written English language is bent and stretched (in some ways, much too far--how many times have you seen 'your' when 'you're' was intended? Never mind how badly the spoken English language ca be mangled) but I would venture to guess the same could be said about your own native languages. Enough about grammar! Enough! Let's talk about Colin--that's why we're here.

Oh, great! A typing error! The top line should read "than that." My, how cumbersome this can get!!

Elena - thank you for your understanding and support. I don't believe I pick at anyone constantly, though. I didn't mean to criticize - only enquire. I think we are genuinely witnessing certain new trends in spoken English - after all, that's what happens in every living language. I'm sure our hero would be very interested in discussing it from an actor's point of view.

yawn...let me know when class is out. ;-)

...or (intended in a more constructive way) why don't you start up a "Language" discussion board at Spring?

Let'a talk about Colin, that's definitely why I am here. I shall be away next week so please keep the Board informed of any Cannes sightings for me to read about when I get back, Thanx

Yes...let's talk about Colin...discussing grammar is boring on any level. It really should be done via email.I move that our hosts make that suggestion...anybody second?

I second.

A motion to have grammar questions discussed via email is on the floor and has been seconded by the Right Honorable Member from the Sunshine State. We've had our discussion, so I'll put it to a vote. All in favor say Aye: Aye!!!! All oppopsed: (silence) The Ayes have it. Motion passed. Let's get past this. ;-)

No commenting on the typo, please!

back to Colin according to Lisbeth's Timeline website Colin is not to be in the BBC World Service Radio play in June, apparently it was an error on the BBC Website, how very disappointing.

Okay, I'll talk about Colin... The Guardian Film Review reports "First-time director for BJD". Working Title has appointed Sharon Maguire as director of the film version of BJD. She has a lot of experience in making documentaries, but this is her first movie. News of cast to follow?? Also, I know that we're conjecturing about John Boorman and the casting for "The Sea-Wolf", but I found my copy of the book and skimmed through it, and I have to say that Colin is ideal for the part of Humphrey Van Leyden, a rich, bookish, civilised man in his mid thirties. His ship goes down, and he is rescued and forced to join the crew of the Ghost as an ordinary seaman, where he comes into conflict with the captain, Wolf Larsen, whom he both admires, and detests for his brutality. The novel centres on the battle for supremacy between these two men. It's a leading role, very strong dramatically, heroic, and there is a passionate (but repressed!) love affair with a young woman rescued from another shipwreck. I'll temper my enthusiasm by saying that it's not the sort of role that is normally given to an English actor, and it will probably go to a Hollywood bankable "star"!! But I hope I'm wrong.....it's Mutiny on the Bounty/Hornblower/Blue Lagoon combined with Deliverance!

She has a lot of experience in making documentaries, but this is her first movie. Scary! I've seen a lot of films from those "documentary-turned-feature-film-makers." Usually, they don't turn out very well. But I'll give her the benefit of the doubt. I suppose it depends on her education in filmmaking.

I have just read at Lisbeth's Timeline site that MY Life So Far is to get its World Premiere at The Newport Internation Film Festival 1-6th June, that could be why it's US release date was put back to July. Anybody live near Newport?

Karen/Heidi - I am having trouble posting here. See comments on #107.

Here's the website for the Newport Film Festival. MLSF is listed as "US Premiere" and there's a sentence in the press release. http://www.newportfilmfestival.com/ Wonder if I can get a room with an ocean view at The Breakers? Second choice, Marble House. (hee hee) Ann, remember 3DOR: Rhode Island is tiny. Newport would be fairly close to anyone in New England, especially Boston people. Hey, I've got a cousin in Providence....

At the website, there's an online form to volunteer to work at the fetival. The last question is: What skills do you feel could be used during the festival? Let's see: Exceptional willingness and desire to be Colin's escort. Knowledge of private coves along shore...

Will he attend the premi�re? I doubt it. He probably considers Cannes a must but not Newport. If the reaction is good, he will do LA and NY. World Premi�re is a big word.

Thank goodness class is out. I love recess. :-) (Bethan)...it's Mutiny on the Bounty/Hornblower/Blue Lagoon combined with Deliverance! LOL! It certainly doesn't sound boring. Working Title has appointed Sharon Maguire as director of the film version of BJD (Winter) Scary! Sounds kind of risky for such a highly anticipated movie. It makes sense to have a woman direct; after all, it is a woman's story aimed at a target audience of women (unless the screenplay dramaticaly departs from the book--kind of doubtful with Andy and Helen at the helm). Now for the cast....(there's that drumroll again). (Ann) that could be why it's US release date was put back to July. Karen's right about the reason: screen availability. I was reading more 'Star Wars' blitz last night (here in the US it's everywhere you turn). This is from 'Newsweek': "The lucky exhibitors who'll get to show the movie had to agree to a pile of unprecedented conditions: 'Phantom' has to run in the biggest, bestest theater in a multiplex and can't be moved without permission for two to three months--thereby shutting out subsequent movies like Stanley Kubrick's 'Eyes Wide Shut.' If the movie runs on multiple screens, it has to continue to do so..." Even though it's only opening on 3,000 screens, it will stay there for the rest of the summer. With so many other movies to be accomodated, MLSF likely had to stand in line with the rest. 'Newsweek' killed PM, BTW. Talk about bad reviews...whew! Newport's lovely. The Firths should be there...maybe there's a way I can wangle another trip up there (it will have to be with my DH). Hmmm, can I come up with a plausible reason for seeing The Breakers again? Chateau Sur Mer? (Ann) Colin is not to be in the BBC World Service Radio play in June, apparently it was an error on the BBC Website, how very disappointing. Bummer! Why do you build me up, build me up baby, just to let me down...

I live not too far from Rhode Island. Anyone wanna come, they can stay with me! Newport is about 45 minutes from my house. Hmmm... Maybe, I'll go and check it out.

I was thinking, Lizbeth said it was the World Premiere but of course it can't be if it is being shown at Cannes in May. (She must have meant US Premiere). I feel quite optimistic about MLSF now and really envy you all being able to see in in a few weeks time, goodness knows when we will get it here, someone said Christmas for goodness sake, still possibly we will have Colin on stage, DQ on the Television and Colin in MLSF on the big screen all at the same time!!

(testing posting...my apologies for the interuption)

(posting testing. dito)

Laura, I do hope you get to go to Newport, as least you know you will definitely get to see MLSF, we don't know for sure that its 16th July, release date won't be changed again and you can report back. Best of Luck.

I will definitely go and see this movie and report back. Newport is a great place to visit.

I too live less than an hour from Newport -- Laura, we're probably neighbors, unbeknownst to each other;-) Isn't Colin supposed to be shooting DQ through the first week in June? Sounds like it'll be cutting it close for him to attend the Newport premiere.

Does that mean you will be going as well Susan, the more that can go and sup-ort Colin the better, I would really love to go and Newport sounds lovely but I have already planned my summer holiday, I don't think I could convince my husband we should go to America as well!

It does say US premiere at the film festival's website. How does your place compare to The Breakers or Marble House, Laura? ;-) Chateau Sur Mer was closed when I was there. But you've seen one mansion, you've seen 'em all!

Susan, what about that great chat idea of yours? If we would like him to do it this year, I guess we should decide something about a preferred month etc. and then just bravely contact his agency about it as soon as possible. I believe it�s a very remote chance that he�d do it but one can always hopefully ask!

I see that An Ideal Husband will also have the US Premiere.... that means Minnie Driver for sure.She never misses...in costume, of course.

The schedule for the NIFF will be posted on Friday, but one of the staff said it will be shown twice: once on a weekday and once on the weekend. They do not know at this point whether anyone associated with the film will be attending. BTW, she also wanted to know how I knew about this film. Why is this always such a difficult question to answer? ;-)

What was your answer Karen???

How does your place compare to The Breakers or Marble House, Laura? ;-) ] Honestly? It doesn't:) But for people traveling out of town, it highly reasonably priced (free) and I cook! Susan, I live in Attleboro, MA which is 5-8 miles east of Providence. And I've only passed thru Newport, I've never really done any sighseeing! (a shame really.) Evelyn, an Ideal Husband, is that the same story that JE's mom was in on Broadway?

The gremlins at Spring really are at work. I shall conquer this...

What I have been trying to say for the last 24 hours is that the news that BJD is to be directed by a first time director does not seem to me to bode well for BJD. I suspect that what the gremlins didn't want me to say is that I think it would be a mistake for Colin to take the part of MD unless the script is VERY good and the cast star-studded. I think he could lay himself open to all sorts of ridicule if he takes a part in a less than high profile film and just reprises his role as FD in modern cloth s. If he does do it, I hope they pay him lots of cash to make it worth his while;-))

so that he can return to the London stage and be able to afford to do 2months instead of just 2 weeks.

LOL Ann! A happy thought indeed.

(Karen), Chateau Sur Mer was closed when I was there. But you've seen one mansion, you've seen 'em all! I beg to differ! Why don't we invite Colin to chat with us on September 10, his birthday? We can plan a party once again.;-))

Re: BJD I think that Working Title have a reputation for making good choices of directors...and sometimes taking risks. Shekar Kapur was a controversial choice for a period drama like "Elizabeth", but he delivered the goods. Perhaps they want a more "real" documentary type approach to filming, rather than glossy "Notting Hill" unreality. Just guessing! And first time directors are often quite successful.

(Evelyn) that means Minnie Driver for sure.She never misses...in costume, of course. I'm trying to picture her Oscar getup with a nautical...hmmmm... argh!! (Ann) What was your answer Karen??? After a lot of er-ing and ah-ing, I finally said that one of the actors is a favorite of mine and I had heard about this movie a long time ago and knew it was being shown at the benefit at Cannes. Newport is lovely, Ann. Shame you can't talk James into coming here. It is very old (by American standards) and quaint; known for having the summer "cottages" of the richest people in the US in the 19th century and the yachting and regattas (like Cowes for you somewhat???). A great deal of historic significance there as well. BTW, some of these cottages are mini-Versailles. Allison, glad to see you've temporary gotten past the gremlins. (I'll let wer and Terry see if they can sort out your problems.) Bethan, why don't you post more from the BJD movie article. About how the director, Sharon Maguire, is HF's friend and supposedly the model for Shazzer, etc. Shekar Kapur was a controversial choice for a period drama like "Elizabeth", but he delivered the goods. Agree on first part, but disagree on the second. Moon, you're right. Some have more gold on their ceilings than others. ;-)

(Laura)Evelyn, an Ideal Husband, is that the same story that JE's mom was in on Broadway? She might have...the more recent one she did was Edward Albee's "A Delicate Balance".BTW Sunshine is being featured at the Cannes Film Market (still in post production), but they did not list JE's name in the billing....Ralph Fiennes and her mum.!!

Caught the opening ceremonies of Cannes. Kirsten Scott-Thomas spoke perfect french, Jeremy Irons and even Fay Dunaway pulled it off! I wonder if Colin will be making any speaches in french. He did study it in school. Wouldn''t that be a treat? The announcer's from the Independant Film Channel were a film prof. from Columbia U. and a French movie critic. They listed lots of films they were looking forward to seeing but NONE mentioned MLSF. Incroyable! The American Indies are to shine in Cannes this year, which is good news for Miramax since they have a few in competition.

Thanks Ladies for all the info. Laura, it is very nice of you to offer hospitality. Karen are you going? Newport is quite lovely and a nice break from the daily routine. You'll have to be prepared and get in all your questions if he does show up, and don't forget to invite him to Chat. They must have a clue as to the casting of BJD isn't there someone to call? If the director is a good friend of HF, there is a good chance Colin knows her too. At this point, I would like to know who they have for Bridget, and I'm sure they know.

Kirsten Scott-Thomas spoke perfect french Isn't she married to a French doctor and lives in France? I seem to remember hearing about that when she was nominated for the AA for TEP.

Yes, she is. She also has two sons.

I watched the Cannes tv coverage also...of course, with hopes of seeing CF...or at least Jeremy Northam...! No luck, of course. Quite the traffic jam of celebrities going into the event, and it moved soooo slowly. I agree Kristen Scott Thomas looked and sounded great!

From Reuters: Dench, who has been grande dame in London's West End theater district for years but has not graced Broadway in 40 years, said she found Broadway audiences' response to the play ``very refreshing.'' The nightly standing ovations are ``very un-British,'' as is the applause that marks her nightly on-stage entrance. ``That never happens in Britain,'' she said. (Karin) I watched the Cannes tv coverage also...of course, with hopes of seeing CF...or at least Jeremy Northam. Most of the news reports I've seen said that hardly anyone is in town yet. If you see JN or CF it will likely be on the day the films are shown.

OK, for the first time I'm going to give this italics thing a try. Here goes... (AnnW) Does that mean you will be going as well Susan, the more that can go and support Colin the better Ann, I would love to go. It will depend on whether Colin will definitely attend, what day it is, and whether I can find someone to babysit my two little boys:-) (Elena) Susan, what about that great chat idea of yours? If we would like him to do it this year, I guess we should decide something about a preferred month etc. I think July might be the best month. Both FP and MLSF will be opening then in the U.S. and CF will need to promote them "by any means necessary." And hey, a chat with online fans is better than having to deal with Jay Leno, right? Laura, if you live in Attleboro, we are practically neighbors. I live in Franklin and drive through or near Attleboro when I go to R.I.

Hurray -- the italics seem to have worked! One small step for man, one giant leap for the technologically inept;-)

Susan, you are soooooooo close to me! Perhaps we should meet up at the Emerald Square Mall (or the strip joint, as I call it. Route 1 is amazing!)

OH and Susan, I forgot, if you would like to see this movie at the film festival, perhaps we could go together. email me at lauram30@yahoo.com

(Karen) Quoting article : Judi Dench"The nightly standing ovations are ``very un-British,'' as is the applause that marks her nightly on-stage entrance. ``That never happens in Britain,'' she said." I told you we should have done that at the Donmar!! I had to sit on my hands when he came on stage.I think someone held me down when he was taking his bows....I was in the last row anyway...no one would have seen me. We should have let him know there were a few Americans in the audience. (Albeit, not wearing jogging suits....) I shall have to reconsider for TRT.Lots of mediocre actors get applause...the best should get a standing ovation and a few bravos too!!

Sorry about the ending tags.I just did it...hope they go away.

Not to change the subject or anything, but last night Teri Hatcher starred in Cabaret here in Boston and she brought the house down. The show stopped for minutes after she sang the title song. (talk about a show-stopper! Teri Hatcher is getting RAVE reviews for her portrayal of British Sally Bowles!) I think Dame Judi Dench deserves the applause she is receiving. She is a wonderful actress and I would applaud her if I saw her live and in person.

(Laura) think Dame Judi Dench deserves the applause she is receiving. She is a wonderful actress and I would applaud her if I saw her live and in person. "Not always"... ...I saw her last year in" Filomena" a Sir Peter Hall production and she was "OK." (I would not have given her a standing ovation...but it was a shallow play) I will be seeing "Amy's View" on May 25. Will let you know.

(Laura)ast night Teri Hatcher starred in Cabaret here in Boston and she brought the house down. The show stopped for minutes after she sang the title song. (talk about a show-stopper! Teri Hatcher is getting RAVE reviews So strange...she made her debut as Sally Bowles here in L.A. not too long ago, and got horrible reviews. I mean, to the point where the critics were ready to pull her off stage in mid-performance and strangle her! Perhaps she and the director did a major overhaul and rebuilt her performance from the ground-up. Good to know she's doing well. (Here's a bit of useless trivia about TH: she was a MATH major in college!)

(Laura) Susan, you are soooooooo close to me! Perhaps we should meet up at the Emerald Square Mall (or the strip joint, as I call it. Route 1 is amazing!) Laura, if I do go to the premiere, I'll definitely have to stop by Emerald Square and get something decent to wear. Currently my wardrobe consists solely of "mommywear":-) God willing and babysitter permitting, would love to go to the premiere with you -- gotta run now, will send you email.

Nice meetings coming up, I see :-) Evelyn, I felt like giving him a standing ovation too... (Evelyn)We should have let him know there were a few Americans in the audience. How can you forget you did let him know?

Re: Dench's comments All she was doing is pointing out the differences. The "very refreshing" comment referred to the audiences' response to the play, which could mean the standing ovations at the end. However, when in Rome... ;-)

All she was doing is pointing out the differences. The "very refreshing" comment referred to the audiences' response to the play, which could mean the standing ovations at the end. And also could have been a very diplomatic response to the overexuberance many Americans tend to indulge in when it comes to seeing a major star, particularly a recent Oscar winner, on stage. Don't think Teri Hatcher quite falls in that company. ;-) Laura and Susan, I hope you can work it out for Newport. It would be great to get a first hand report. I'll hold off for the film opening later in the summer but if we hear Colin's gonna be there, I'll be there in 6 hours.

the applause that marks [Judi Dench's] nightly on-stage entrance. (Evelyn) I told you we should have done that at the Donmar!! You did? Well, so did I, but I was shouted down. But I knew I was right to suggest it, and it would not distract the actors: they are trained to cope with these things. A mobile phone ringing in the middle of a performance is absolutely diabolical and contemptuous. A burst of welcoming applause is heart-warming. And you, Colin's greatest fans, deprived him of it on his rare return to the stage.

All she was doing is pointing out the differences. The "very refreshing" comment referred to the audiences' response to the play, which could mean the standing ovations at the end. (Heide)And also could have been a very diplomatic response to the overexuberance many Americans tend to indulge in when it comes to seeing a major star, particularly a recent Oscar winner, on stage. I dunno...In the Heartland, we never get an Oscar star in plays and we give standing ovations anyway...even school productions. IMO I think an actor would be flattered to be the recipient of such spontaneous feelings .And an indication of a superior performance. (Arami)And you, Colin's greatest fans, deprived him of it on his rare return to the stage. I know, I know....and I hate myself for it. **** (Karen)...However,when in Rome... ;-) "Not always". **** (Evelyn)We should have let him know there were a few Americans in the audience. (Gi)How can you forget you did let him know? Well, I did in conversation...but I mean..we should have indicated by standing at the end...really for the whole cast too. Oh well....I admit it...I blew that one....

Here's a link to the items being auctioned for the AmFAR benefit: http://auctions.yahoo.com/user/cinemaagainstaids_amfar

I have news about CF from the Daily Mail but the gremlins are at it again! I am trying to post!

Colin Firth who stars in the Miramax movie MLSF, which HH has directed from a script by Scottish playwright Simon Danald. The film will be screened in Cannes on Thursday for a gala Aids benefit. I can also tell you that Mr Firth, along with E McG and PM, will return to the Donmar Warehouse Theatre in London in Richard Greenberg's remarkable play, 3DOR. The drama ran for a few performances earlier this year and was such a hit that everyone decided to ressemble at the Donmar for a longer run, beginning o November 16. The production will break for Christmas and New Year, then return from January 5 to 22. The play, set on America's East Coast, explores the dynamite events that affect the life of a brother and sister, their parents and best friends over several decades. Article by Baz Bamigboye, Daily Mail.

Thanks Allison for perservering, great news, I was just hoping though that if it did return there might have been different co-stars, never mind thought it is great news.

Allison, re our recent conversation does this now mean that he must have signed up for BJD for a fantastic fee!!!

Hey! now we can be terribly un-British and give him that standing ovation! And, yes, Ann, if he's to pay his mortgage, he must have a lucrative film offer lined up. Otherwise �200 per week and a standard BBC Scotland fee won't pay the bills!

I bet he is not on a standard BBC Scotland fee. He was voted the most popular actor in 60 yearsd of the BBC. That would be a good negotiating starting point for his agent:-)

I bet he is not on a standard BBC Scotland fee. He was voted the most popular actor in 60 years of the BBC. That would be a good negotiating starting point for his agent:-)

I wonder what this lucrative film offer is for, any bets - Sea Wolf, BJD, Mary Queen of Scots (my choice), Enigma and the one you mentioned the other day Bethan, the name of which escapes me. BTW Bethan did you get my email re Miramax's London telephone number? and Bethan you really must try to at least go to a Matinee this time around, you will be glad you did. I hope to go to a couple of matinees so if you want company just ask.

Gremlins again!

Gremlins again! I was referring to my double post, Ann!!!

ah, not the film thank goodness for that!!! (re any bets - Marked Man?)

Allison, thanks for the news! I am so happy they will return to the Donmar instead of a larger venue. Maybe this time I will manage to see it/him. (sigh*) It is fun trying to guess what his next project will be. Heide, do you think it's time to send another Fax?

Ann, thanks for your kind offer. I'll certainly make it to the Donmar this time, but hopefully, with all the time to pre-plan, I won't have to make a secret trip on my own to London! My son will have started at Oxford so I reckon we can go down for a long weekend to see him (not that he'll want to see us!!) and combine this with a theatre trip. I've got five months to work on this scenario!! BBC Scotland...well maybe not the standard fee, but he won't be a rich man! That's one thing I admire in Colin...that he never seems motivated by money in his choice of projects. Otherwise he would be appearing in movies like "The Mummy"! I've seen some coverage of Cannes in the UK media, but don't really expect to see anything of Colin. MLSF isn't in competition, and he'll be busy filming DQ, so I presume his visit will be a fleeting one! Also the UK coverage, as usual, seems rather glamour fixated....items about Catherine Zeta Jones, now earning $5million a movie (why?),who insists on having an entourage of six bodyguards. Poor ol' Col can't compete! As to his next film, well my bet has to be on BJD. "The Sea-wolf" seems unlikely if it's a autumn shoot ( I actually don't think this is a good option...it's all been done before). And I'm still hopeful about "The Lion in Winter" because it's Pat O'Connor directing. I wonder if he'll be at Cannes with his wife (Mary Elizabeth M.) I've not read anything about "Mary Queen of Scots" but it may just be a starring vehicle for an actress, like "Elizabeth". BTW Karen, I haven't seen this yet, but I wasn't overly impressed by the clips. Ann, will reply to your email. Sorry for the delay.

Thanks Bethan,and congratulations on your son getting to Oxford, btw you say you are coming down to Oxford, for some reason I thought you lived in or near London and I know what you mean about visiting your son, we are going up to the Lake District next week and I thought it would be nice to pop in and see my son at Lancaster University, but it seems he is very busy finishing a project and getting it in on time, he said though that he may have time to go out for a meal, a free meal is always acceptable o poor students!!

OK, evelyn... time to make amends....The gods are giving me another chance!! This time...watch out.... **standing ovation**. If Judi can get one, so can Colin. (Ann) I hope to go to a couple of matinees so if you want company just ask. I'll go with you ;-))) Should I get the tickets while I'm at the Donmar next month? Oh no, have to see James again at the box office...!!

beginning on November 16. The production will break for Christmas and New Year, then return from January 5 to 22. May need a residency visa!! Thanks for posting the news, Allison, and continuing to persevere when faced with Yapp gremlins.

Allison, I forgot to say "thanks!" The Daily Mail (and Baz) really do come up trumps, every now and again! Please keep a lookout for BJD and any news of MLSF in the UK! BTW, BJD: The Sequel (whatever the title is!) is going straight to paperback (no hardback) at �6.99. I was in our local Waterstones the other day and asked about it. They were expecting delivery in April, but the date has been put back. Perhaps to coincide with the beginning of the film shoot...good PR! Sorry, this should be at #80...am too lazy.

I have just been out and bought the Daily Mail and interestingly Bethan there is also an item in the BB column "Hopkins to play the Lion King. Anthony Hopkins and Meryl Streep are the favourites to star in a new version of the Lion in Winter....Hopkins and Streep are at the top of director Pat o'Connor's wish list and delicate negodtiations are under way to secure their services for the film, which would be shot in Britain in the autumn." (would this rule Colin out). Also in the same paper is an interest ng article about Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels flopping in the USA and a bit about Working Titles and how they are looking for a star to play a British gentleman spy in a �20million film. A Man called Brown, will tell the story pf a secret agent operating in 1912. Love interest is provided by a suffragett, while the villian is a German munitions merchant. Actors being considered to play Brown include Ewan MacGregor, John Hannah and Robert Carlyle." Oh please two of these actors are scottish, where i Colin's name, he would be perfect.!!

And you, Colin's greatest fans, deprived him of it on his rare return to the stage. (Evelyn) I know, I know....and I hate myself for it. Don't, Evelyn. 'When in Rome' was the most judicious approach. Unexpected applause could have thrown off his rhythm. You ladies did a marvelous job communicating your great fan-dom after the show. We can all applaud CF together when he comes to B'way (*sigh* someday...hope, hope, wish, wish)--no restraints! I read alot about Richard Anderson (remember him? He was Pete in ATA) last weekend. It was publicity for "Hunt for the Unicorn Killer" but also noted his Tony Award nom for "Death of a Salesman," in which he currently stars with Brian Dennehy (B'way is loaded with 'degrees of Colin' right now although Alan Cumming is leaving "Cabaret." Would you believe Jennifer Jason Leigh played Sally for awhile? She's about as sexy as a breezeblock. I'll take Teri any day). Here's a few excerpts about RA from vari us local papers: "The stage door opens and Kevin Anderson walks smack into a throng of fans waving paper, pens, even photos of the actor...Anderson graciously stops to chat, and to sign every last scrap of paper proffered...Anderson extends his hand in farewell, hikes on his backpack, and heads out to search for a cab. This time, he slips, unnoticed, onto the street." "...Kevin Anderson has been living an actor's dream: every night, a house full of theater-goers on its feet, applauding. 'It's an incredible thing,' Anderson says...'the people have always stood up...' After a performance of 'Salesman' last week, Anderson signed autographs outside the stage door for fans. They wanted to know what films he would be in next (he doesn't know yet)...the increased visibility is a welcome change of pace for Anderson, an unobtrusive actor whose work is often appreciated by crit cs, but whose name has eluded the general public. 'That's the story of my career,' Anderson says. 'All these little gems that nobody has seen'...Anderson cherishes his freedom more than anything else--the freedom to say yes to the things that genuinely interest him, and not waste time doing things because they fit his schedule or because he desperately needs a cash infusion...'I actually have a fan club now...they set up a web site for me. It's real recognition, not just for the show ['Nothing Sacred'] ut for everything I've been in'...last year, a group of 30 fans from the US and Canada coordinated a trip to Chicago to attend the same performance of 'Death of a Salesman.' Afterward, they surprised Anderson outside the stage door with a leather-bound book of personal notes expressing their appreciation for his acting. 'They were basically saying 'Hey, we see what you've been doing, and we want you to know that we appreciate it.' It was touching.'" Remind you of anyone? Hmmmm?? IMO the similarity is startling. That's a good idea about the book--something to keep in mind for later this year (and next month, JE fans). (Bethan) I think he could lay himself open to all sorts of ridicule if he takes a part in a less than high profile film and just reprises his role as FD in modern clothes. I agree. Even if it the script is wonderful, in playing MD he risks being rubber stamped as Darcy--a persona he's trying to shake. (Ann)re any bets - Marked Man? Now there's something I'd like to see him in (from the little bit I read about the script). Don't hit me but I would prefer to see him play the hero in a nice, juicy thriller vs. risk being typecast in BJD. Unfortunately, the latter is probably more realistic. (Heide)Laura and Susan, I hope you can work it out for Newport Me too! *Road trip!!* Saw a clip of Hugh Hefner (and his blonde triplet dates, Booby, Booby and Booby--whoops, I don't think I have their names right) docking at Cannes. Bring on Pia Zadora! Don't expect much press on MLSF since it's not part of the competition. If we are to hear anything about it (or ODB) it will be on 5/20 or 5/21. Thank you for sharing Biz' confirmation about CF's return in 3DOR, Allison. *Sniff!* I smell an award finally coming his way!! Maybe this time I will manage to see it/him. (sigh*) Moon, perhaps we can conspire together? I'm *sighing* too!

Oops, that should be Baz, not Biz. (Ann) Actors being considered to play Brown include Ewan MacGregor, John Hannah and Robert Carlyle Yuck, yuck and yuck!

.... about as sexy as a breezeblock. Eileen, I think you are starting a new and fashionable simile! Which British newspaper started it? *Sniff!* I smell an award finally coming his way!! I think you could be right. I hardly dare think about it....I am starting to hold my breath already. And you, Colin's greatest fans, deprived him of it on his rare return to the stage. I am very British about this. I hate the huge round of applause which greets a star when they first come on to the stage. It is so inappropriate. Nobody has seen them in the part at that point. They are merely being applauded for who they are, not what they are doing. A standing ovation at the end in fine IMHO because you are indicating enjoyment of the actor's work not just his or her celebrity. Not that we stand very often...tho' I remember one production where my husband and I stood and cheered ( s my husband is Mr D at his most restrained, plus some, you can imagine it was quite a performance).

Re JJL and breezeblocks You should see eXistenZ. Will change your mind.

"The Lion in Winter"....I thought that Anthony Hopkins had retired! He seems to be more in demand now than ever. Historically, Henry II was 40 (not 60) at the time of all the conflict with his sons, so Colin would have been ideal. Oh well, cross it off my list. Sniff! Mind you, if they're advancing everyone's ages by 20 years, Colin could play Richard the Lionheart (whom AH played in the original "Lion in Winter"). to be shot in Britain in the autumn Hmmm...the only thing that slightly disheatens me about his return to 3DOR is that it blocks the autumn (and film-making) for him, which would indicate that he hasn't any film offers lined up (although Nov 16th is more winter than autumn) I hope he does BJD, but to be honest, I'd like to read that he was in contention for other major roles in movies. He's so versatile that to be rubber stamped as Darcy does him a disservice. But yet again, with an Andrew Davies s reenplay, drawing on P&P parallels, BJD could be very, very entertaining. Actors being considered to play Brown include Ewan McGregor, John Hannah and Robert Carlyle Again, sniff! Double sniff. They're all Scottish anyway, and Ewan McGegor seems to be considered for every part that's going. Including my favourite Captain Corelli! Colin would probably be offered the German baddie role. Sounds like a silly plot! Back to positive thoughts, a longish run with 3DOR could make him eligible for an Olivier nomination..

Bethan, he finishes DQ at the beginning of June, and apparently he had to with draw from the BBC play, so I wouldn't mind betting he has something lined up for the immediate future and that still leaves him time enoughto fit in say another 10 week shoot before 3DOR, they won't need a very long rehearsal period?! so we could have two projects to look forward to as well as 3DOR at Xmas, DQ inthe New Year and maybe MLSF will be released in the UK around then. 3DOR, I was also wondering if there might be a bit more scenery this time as it is a longer run, it was very minimal before, a bit more like the production you saw Karen?

(AnnI was also wondering if there might be a bit more scenery this time as it is a longer run, it was very minimal before, a bit more like the production you saw Karen?), Brava Ann! I was wondering the same thing. This is where your compare/contrast 3DOR letter to Colin would come in handy Karen, it is not too late. ;-))) They should change a little something as a special treat to all the repeat afficionados. If you see him in Newport, you could mention it as well. Before you know it, you will be fast friends and can introduce me. :-D

Unexpected applause could have thrown off his rhythm. Oh, come on, stop clucking around him like that - he's a professional, for pity's sake! A ringing mobile phone and a water tap falling off in his hand didn't throw him off his rhythm, so why do you think something positive like a symbolic sign of recognition and pleasure of seeing him would? I hate the huge round of applause which greets a star when they first come on to the stage What's your name - Judi Dench?

I just checked the Newport Film Festival web site -- MLSF is to be shown June 3 and June 6, both at 8 p.m.

(Karen)You should see eXistenZ. Will change your mind. Really? It's playing down the street, though I haven't really thought about seeing it. Maybe I'll catch it later tonight.

(Bethan)I hate the huge round of applause which greets a star when they first come on to the stage. It is so inappropriate Agree. I think one should earn applause and a standing ovation. Wow...you girls really have him booked up all summer...he's a dad you know...who enjoys his son on holidays.

Wow...you girls really have him booked up all summer...he's a dad you know...who enjoys his son on holidays. Too true....I'm sure he'll put a pencil through a couple of months in the summer. And I guess that's why, very unusually I think, 3DOR is breaking for a couple of weeks over Christmas. Normally theatres only close for a couple of days as the Christmas season is be very popular in terms of bookings. Full marks to CF for responsible parenting. It's just that there seem to be so many good projects in the offing at the moment and I'd love to read that he was being considered for them (not second choice!). And Will could have a lot of fun with his dad on a film set...I'm sure he's very well behaved! We're getting very good coverage of Cannes over here on BBC24 News and in the press. I've now revised my opinion and I really hope we see something of Colin, and some promo for MLSF, (not Minnie Driver, Elton John, Liz Hurley et al). Maybe the photographers will noice there's a handsome Englisman with a beautiful (and photogenic) wife. Or maybe not! Today's Times has a front page photo of Ewan McGregor announcing yet another leading role (James Joyce). This man is the British film industry!! Also the BBC24 had loads of stuff on Catherine ZJ who seems to adore the limelight, says she rather crabbily. I'll tune in on the 20th! BTW, I've sent a very long e-mail to the Arts Council/National Lottery Division about SLOW, asking about whether they monitor their �1 million investment (tax payers' money!) and also asking some very specific questions (legal status of film, screenplay, has anyone seen it etc). I had to send a similar e-mail (on a different topic) from work, so whilst I was in an aggressive mood I thought I'd fire off something about SLOW as well. No response so far! I also discovered an excellent megasearch engine at wo k, www.dogpile.com, which brought up a lot of info about SLOW that I hadn't see before. It was obviously slated for release, until the cruel fates intervened! Newport sounds great...sun, sand and sea. An ideal location!

Continuing my newshound stint....Harvey Weinstein is establishing a new film studio in NY, and he's quoted as saying that if he does a sequel to SIL it will be "Shakespeare in New York". He has a sense of humour, right? A couple of mentions for Liz Taylor and her upcoming AMFAR appearance. Also, was (genuinely) puzzled by the choice of EMcGr to play James Joyce, when it's a well known fact that Joyce didn't make any literary impact until his late thirties/forties. But apparently the movie "concentrates on his love affairs" (yawn, yawn)and the director chose EM because he is willing to take risks (ie his clothes off!) Don't expect any literary merit!

STOP PRESS********** I have just spoken to DONMAR and they confirmed 3DOR (why do I always get the wonderfully ditzy ones who don't know anything that I am talking about!!!) and that booking opens on JULY 19th Thought you would all like to pencil that in your diaries!!!!

Wonderful news about 3DOR. Since it's at the Donmar again, I'd expect the trans-Atlantic phone lines to be burning up on the 19th. Those of you who were really beating yourselves up about not going the first time can not let this one get away. (Evelyn) In the Heartland, we never get an Oscar star in plays and we give standing ovations anyway...even school productions. Thanks, Evelyn. You've supported my point without realizing it and much more succinctly. In the US, standing ovations have become almost meaningless because they're done so often. IMO People stand up for an actor's reputation, not their performance. I think an actor (musician, whatever) knows if they truly deserve the ovation and I'd be embarrassed to receive one knowing the performance wasn't up to par. This is just a discussion on the topic in general and has no bearing on what I would do at the Donmar. I'm planning on throwing my undies on stage, actually.

I'm planning on throwing my undies on stage, actually. LOL Heidi, which day are you planning to go? I must be there:-)) ODB said that no one had sent him any knickers.....you could be the first.

OH NO, not a Tom Jones Concert type atmosphere , please!!! Of course , you could have said underwear printed with a certain website address I suppose! Try and make it a night Livia's not in, then he would be able to take them home "by tube" undetected!

NOT a TOm Jones concert flavour to the performance, PLEASE!!! You could of course have your underwear printed with your favourite website beforehand. AND pick an evening when Livia's not there and we COULD see some repeats of a certain snappy Heide, I'll say no more!!

Sorry everyone , my first posting was rejected and something came up saying it had been returned!!! Very strange, anyone else had that?

those are really great news! after all the lousy excuses I made to myself for not going last time I'm definitely going to be there in November... It will be nice to see some of you in person too. How did you plan the trip last time? did someone was in charge of buying the tickets for the play? if you are going to arrange something like that now, please contact me (yosysh@ibm.net).

Adi, we all bought our own and it was sheer luck , initially that quite a few of us picked the same date!!

Lizza did you by any chance ask when the Play stops for the Christmas /New Year break i.e 16th November to when and then 5th January to 20th Jan. Adi I am thinking of going in November, and then in January and I would love to meet you and any other firthfans.

No Ann I didn't, but surely they would stop for Xmas by 23rd at the very latest and it will be interesting to see how much ticket prices will go up by!! It's a good idea to go earlier in the run and then later in 2000. CF to take us into the next thousand years, what a way to celebrate.

They've set a very early booking date....they must be expecting a lot of advance bookings this time! I'm really looking forward to seeing CF .....my hints about a theatre trip to London in the autumn have been surprisingly well received! I'm hoping that 3DOR will get more advance publicity second time round, so that I can say "hey, this is a must see show...everyone's talking about it" :-) I think that Colin must have really enjoyed the Donmar experience and the intimate atmosphere of a studio theatre....I'm glad it's not transferring. He'll have to stave off the coughs and colds though....more vitamin C, less Kentucky fried chicken!

I haven't decided if I'm going or not. One reason I would go is the chance to meet more droolers. We shared such camaraderie at the Donmar last spring amd there's not one lady I met I wouldn't love to see again. It's going to be a bit more difficult to meet up this time because of the longer run. As Lizza said, it was sheer luck that most of us picked the same day to go. But with so much time to plan, Adi, I'm sure you'll be able to settle on a date with other droolers. You've got to go. Wonder if the bed will be in the same spot? Donmar Seating Ann and Allison, will those paragons of patience you call husbands go with you again? We could use someone to hold our coats and purses to leave our hands free for those tactile experiences after the show. Just kidding!

Heide you just have to go again and get some more of those lovely photos. Not sure if my hubby will want to go a 3rd and 4th time, I shall have to have a word with my sister and try and persuade some of my friends that it is really a "must-see". Adi for your information rowA seats26/27 are at the bottom of the bed!, a few inches from his size 10's (only guessing!)

That's strange, according to the Plan above, the seats I mentioned are A24/25but I was sure ours were A26/27, anyway they are all very good seats. BTW they are in the Stalls and I was guessing about Colin's shoe size, in case anyone may be wondering.

his size 10's (only guessing!) Interesting: remember the Tatler photo of Colin in a Hamlet-like (or Byronesque, as some may prefer) pose? You can see the sole of one of the boots he's wearing, and there's a single number on it: very likely 9... some of you remarked how relatively small his feet seemed in real life...

(Heide)Re: Standing Ovations...I'd be embarrassed to receive one knowing the performance wasn't up to par. And I wouldn't give one....I would not have given Judi one when I saw her in Filomena...definitely mediocre. (Heide)I haven't decided if I'm going or not. Waddaya' mean?..... start clipping those coupons...play the lottery... I don't plan to go twice...but once, for sure.(Though I do wish it was a different play...let's take up a collection and get EMcG.a "dialect coach" that hat specializes in a southern accent).Surely , she'll improve the second time around. I suggest we set up two dates...one in November or early December and one in January. Firthettes could then decide which one to attend.It is more fun to have a group .And November& January are low fares season.I'll check on the dates of the latter.

where is dean?

Oh my, he's coming back to the Donmar? Hmmmm, how am I going to convince the DH that this is a must see? Start working on a set of excuses for me girls... I'm off to Singapore tomorrow so you'll have several days to think about it :-)

In the Sunday Times today:-" Bridget Jones gets her man" (can't type it all but here are the interesting parts. "Helen Fielding who created a bestseller by portraying modern urban women as shallow, vulnerable and desperate for marriage, has turned to one of the most successful men in the British film industry for help with her screenplay. The involvement of Richard Curtis would have mortified the fictional Jones, who goes to desperate lengths to conceal her dependence on men. But senior sources at Universal, the Hollywood studio, said Curtis would play a vital role in improving Fielding's draft screenplay, which s e began more than a year ago....... Oscar nominee Cate Blanchette has been tipped for the lead role, as has Helena Bonham Carter, though she has less in common with Jones than the 29 year old Australian star of Elizabeth. COLIN FIRTH who played Darcy in the BBC production of P&P is expected to play the LOVE interest, Mark Darcy." (where is Andrew Davies?)

Oh Ann you have been busy early this morning!!! Colin and Cate? Hmmm. Anyone see the Sunday Times lady at CHAT this week? I replied to her FP type questions re football and asked if she was preparing an article on him. As yet no reply!

BTW I agree with Evelyn about setting up several dates which need to be governed by cheaper air fares. Come on Heide, can you get on that game that Karen was on? Anything, just come! I bet they will change the setting round, so don't bank on the bed being where it was before!! The set may well be redesigned and more along the lines of what Karen saw in Chicago.

....... Oscar nominee Cate Blanchette has been tipped for the lead role Now that would be good for Colin. I am starting to get excited again.

Ann, you beat me to it this morning! Our papers have only just been delivered. I've just found the reference to BJD. Hmmm....yes, what did happen to Andrew Davies? I'd be inclined to take this report with a pinch of salt, based on idle tittle tattle at Cannes. "Insiders at Cannes said that a film of BJD wold succeed only if there were significant changes to the character...insiders say that Curtis (4 weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill) is likely to insist that Bridget gets her man" I think that Richard Curtis' involvement would raise US interest in BJD, but I prefer to believe the Andrew Davies version of events! RC could be used as a consultant. I'm not sure about Cate Blanchett...she may be too serious an actress. Romantic comedy requires different talents. Now, Lizza, what exactly did you say to the Sunday Times lady? There's also another bit in the Sunday Times about how Colin has become a Paul Ashworth-type obsessive about Arsenal since making FP. You see how rumours start!! :-) Re the 3DOR set...for a longer run, they may well invest in something more "real", less minimalist. Sets cost money.

Good sleuthing bethan!! I did not say he is an obsessive about Arsenal at all but only briefly mentioned what anyone who reads the FP sites could have told her. Of course I have had no acknowledgement from her and no answer to my question!! Typical? Those of you with intimate knowledge of this bis. will have to let me know. I guess that because we are all such a caring , sharing lot when it comes to ODB that it ****** me off when there is an exception to it. Still I won't be fobbed off that easily------ back to the email!

Assertive Firthette in action. Now I feel much better, like I scored a winning goal for Arsenal!!

BTW Cate Blanchett has not had good reviews for her role on stage in London, David Hare's "Plenty"(?). Some critics have considered her "Hysterical tone" in some of her speeches speeches. And we thought E.Mc needed help!!!

I also must have missed your Chat with the Times woman, Lizza. What can you tell us? So glad there are "take charge" people in this group. Can't imagine two better people to plan the Donmar excursion than Evelyn and Lizza. ;-) Well, you two sort of offered....are you game?

I bet they will change the setting round, so don't bank on the bed being where it was before!! The set may well be redesigned and more along the lines of what Karen saw in Chicago. Actually the bed was on the left side in Chicago as well, although it was not within inches of my itching fingers... ;-) Now what is this about chatting with a woman from The Times, Lizza? Are you the source for the Colin mention in the "Possession Syndrome" article? Colin Firth, who made his name as Darcy in the most recent version of Pride and Prejudice, found himself swept up by football frenzy in 1996 when he made the film Fever Pitch. Before the film he had seen only one football match but since then has been an Arsenal obsessive, strikingly similar to his "laddish" role in the film. (Bethan) You see how rumours start!! :-) She must have verified the rumors. Nothing that Colin would be ashamed to admit. (like that one about the CCs) ;-o

Another blurb in the Sunday Times relating to Fever Pitch. It's about bringing football/soccer-related movies to the screen. The article is entitled: "The goal to aim for." Here's the relevant part: Football may be making millions for clubs and broadcasters, but film companies have not yet shared in the bonanza. When Saturday Comes grossed less than �1m in 1996 and failed to win an American release. Fever Pitch did better the following year, particularly on video. But both films resorted to romance as selling points: Fever Pitch the book had been hard-core football memoirs, but the balance in the film tilted towards romantic comedy. [...] Banking on romance and foreign locations to attract a wider audience, Calcio is the story of a young English football player who goes to Sardinia, falls in love with a local girl and is drawn into helping the local team. It is backed by BBC Films, which is also funding Extra Time. "It's not a film about soccer," David Thompson of BBC Films told Variety. "This is a very funny script with good characters that happens to have soccer as its background." The BBC may be counting on aficionados recognising the title as Italian for soccer and others simply recalling fond memories of Cinema Paradiso. Many of these films are chasing the same, elusive goal - a female audience. Received wisdom has been that women in particular are turned off by football - although When Saturday Comes was written and directed by Maria Giese, and one of the most successful football films ever, Gregory's Girl, centred on a female player. On the small screen, a second series of Kay Mellor's Playing the Field appealed to both sexes in a primetime slot. [...] Another big market that has been traditionally indifferent to the game is America. But the World Cup finals five years ago raised football's profile there, and the producer Duncan Kenworthy, who had an American hit with Four Weddings and a Funeral, is hopeful that Mike Bassett: England Manager can break into the US market. "It's a comedy about a year in the life of a newly appointed England manager in the run-up to the World Cup finals," Kenworthy says. "There's very little football in it. Much of it is backstage in the dressing room, in the conference rooms of the FA, in the home of the manager, on the bus afterwards, on the plane to Brazil, etc." A mock documentary, it will be a sort of football version of This Is Spinal Tap, though it is going to be hard to top recent events in the real England camp.

Ladies of drool, the word "obsessive" never crossed my lips!!! But then , THIS journalist likes others to do her sourcing for her, without even a cursory acknowledgement!!! She wouldn't last a minute with drool's ethos!

Ladies, thank you! Some NEWS at last. I am still trying to think up a reason to go to London in Nov. considering that we will be in Italy in Dec. Agh! This is frustating! (Karen),A mock documentary, it will be a sort of football version of This Is Spinal Tap, though it is going to be hard to top recent events in the real England camp. I loved ST! It is a worthy model for a comedy, and if they also have that wonderful movie Gregory's Girl in mind, and can pull it off, it will be a sure hit. Let's see Ewan as the lead as usual, I would imagine. Cosidering that the new coach of the British National Selection is Capello an Italian, the British are ready for anything. I know him well because he used to be AC Milan's coach (my team). This is quite unprecedented. KB is too skinny to play Bridget. HBC would be good as one of her friends, not BJ. Would you consider CF confirmed as MD? Heide, it's time for another fax. :-) Bethan, any dramatic actress would love to do a comedy. Comedies are much harder to pull off than drama. I just hope they do not overact.

Do come Moon, this is as good a reason as there will EVER be!!!

Just got back here, only to read such wonderful news! I'm so happy to see 3DOR will be back! I don't want to miss it this time. If I do go, it'll either be in November or Januari (I prefer Januari). December is out (Okay, I know I said the same for June 12th, I'm unpredictable!) The first time I went to London was in November, two years ago. London is incredibly crowded in November and December. Everyone sees London as the place to do Christmas shopping. Everything is more expensive then. Which is why I'd rather go there after New Year. On the other hand, I don't know what I'll be doing in Januari next year. Only too often, we have projects and assignments due right after the Christmas holidays. November is less hectic.

Speaking for the unprivileged contingent of CF fanatics (who either have not the means or time off for such expeditions...), may I suggest that NOW is a good time to start a steady and intensive campaign with the powers-that-be at the BBC or WGBH Boston or A&E Network that they preserve this unique play and its actors in a video tape for broadcast...As Great Performances, for example --(which they are)--because as neato as all this sounds, there are only going to be a limited number of people that can wi ness it as live theatre and the greatest influence on Colin's very long-standing "most-underrated-actor" etc. status is to encourage as broad an exposure of this tour-de-force as is possible. Someone mentioned that they "smelled" an award in this...well, I think this can also expose his abilities to people who heretofore have been unaware of him as an actor (as opposed to a character...). But the time to start campaigning is NOW!

Hear hear!!! Karen, I'm in that underprivileged and too-far-away category. The other occupant of my life says, if we have that much expendible income, where is my new SUV?! Of course, it is imaginary just as his sports/utility vehicle is. So, with a Firth in the heart and fire in the soul, let us begin our campaign to bring ODB to yet another small screen near you. Then we may perserve it on videotape for all time...rewind...slo mo....super slo mo...freeze frame...aaaah! =)

(Heide)Can't imagine two better people to plan the Donmar excursion than Evelyn and Lizza. ;-) Well, you two sort of offered....are you game? Yup. Lizza and I will confer via email and in person on June 12th. Tineke, we will set up both dates, but I favor January too. A nice Christmas present to ourselves :-) Ann what brilliant news....CF doing MD!!I prefer Helena to Cate B...I don't think the latter does comedy as well. What happened to Kate Winslett?

Oh dear! From the Daily Mail.... The Pinocchio Test - Apparently some scientists have discovered that your nose really does get longer when you lie. Dr Alan Hirsch says that although the change is too small to detect with the human eye, tell tale bouts of nose scratching give the game away. "The erectile tissue in the nose expands slightly, causing inflammation and a desire to touch its tip"... I shall never be able to watch that A&E interview again ....:-)

Too funny!!

NEWSSSSSSSSSSSSSS DAILY MAIL MAY 14, 1999 "... I can also tell you, that mr firth along with em and pm will return to the donmar warehouse theatre in london in rg remarkable play, three days of rain. The 3DOR drama ran for a few performances erlier this zear and was such a hit that everzone decided to reassemble at the Donmar for a longer run, beginning on november 16. The production will brak for christmas and new year then return from january 5 to 22. WOOOOWWWWWWW !!!! Sabine

Yes, very funny, Allison! Sorry to hear about your imaginary funding, Marcia. Funding, job status (I'm about to make a change) and that little ol' DH issue are the obstacles standing in my path. Aargh! Evelyn, you're going to be on a first-name basis with the folks in the Donmar ticket office! (Evelyn) Ann what brilliant news....CF doing MD It's still a rumor. The entire article is posted at Murph's site: here (I hope that link works). Ann, I was wondering the same thing about Andrew Davies. Mention of his involvement in the screenplay is conspicuously absent. Perhaps it was a rumor?? Is it mere coincidence that Curtis wrote '4W' and 'Notting Hill,' which is about to *ahem* open in the US? (Bethan) He's so versatile that to be rubber stamped as Darcy does him a disservice *We* know he's versatile, but we're his loyal fans. IMO the press won't let it go.

Great to hear from you Sabine. Can we count you in? And your twin sister....the one who took that fab pic of the Spring Group!! Allison...that is a hysterical quote.Actually, the book on Body Language says the same thing. Ladies: It has been suggested that we use Springfolks listerve for 3DOR Redux (AKA Firth-in- the- Flesh ,II)plans.Then it won't clog- up Drool.I am trying to find airline off-season dates. Don't forget lurkers..each person makes her own airline , lodging reservation, and ticket booking at the Donmar. Lizza and I are happy to answer questions and make dinner reservations before the performance. Tineke is a good source of information for youth hostels in London... (Hope you don't mind Tineke. )Dates for November and January will be posted before the box office opens in July. Pl. email me or Lizza with any questions. Thank you.

Murph has posted the two news items on Colin on her website. http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/news2.html http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/roles.html Thanks Murph...the poem is darling!!

An article in the Evening Standard today, quoting an interview with Cate Blanchett in the Radio Times, saying that she is very busy with her part in "Plenty" through July and then..."nothing"....[but BJD I wonder..?] She says she has several offers but has not made up her mind. "I'll be unemployed".

(Eileen)Evelyn, you're going to be on a first-name basis with the folks in the Donmar ticket office! She already is, I believe...James? Isn't it? (Evelyn) Hope you don't mind Of course not! I have the address, phone and fax number and more info on all Youth Hostels in Europe (there are 9 in London). You can always e-mail me.

(Tineke) She already is, I believe...James? Isn't it? Yes, but now James will know Evelyn's name too(as one of the volvo-driving labrador-owning women of 'a certain age'). Hee hee!

Too funny, LOL.

WOW!! I�ve been abroad for a few days and what do I find here! Felt dizzy reading the news about 3DOR. Can it be true, Firth in the Flesh AGAIN!? I wonder if one could get an overdose of him.....not me ladies, I think I�ll have to see several performances. I only wish we can settle at least one date with as many droolers present as possible. I have no special preferences of month, but the sooner the better, don�t you think?;-) (Bethan)They've set a very early booking date....they must be expecting a lot of advance bookings this time! That�s right, this indicates that there must have been an enormous demand for tickets after the two weeks had been sold out in March. Read Sunday Times in the aeroplane yesterday and was pretty surprised at all that stuff about things Firth in one paper, even a FP picture. Has something begun to happen in the British media? They suddenly seem to acknowledge his existance.

Don't know if anyone else has done this already, but... since I live in the Boston area I sent WGBH Boston an email asking if they are involved in DQ and/or have plans to show it. Here's the message I received: "Thank you for contacting WGBH. There's been no word about the broadcasting of 'Donovan Quick' however, a program request has been forwarded to our program director on your behalf." I know I'm just one voice crying out in the wilderness, but hope it gets results.

That's an interesting item about Cate Blanchett, Allison, - I was wondering when "Plenty" ended its run...very timely. I've now done a 360 degree turnaround and think that she would be an excellent choice for BJ....and I'm sure that she and Colin would get on well (both serious theatre types!) And she's certainly "hot" at the moment, which bodes well for the film's promotion. I'm convinced that movies succeed on the strength of the pre-release hype (I am sick of hearing about "Notting Hill"!!!) Also, he'll finally be one up on the Fiennes bros...Cate played the one that Rafe and Joe didn't (finally) get in "Oscar and Lucinda" and "Elizabeth", but it sounds as though MD will get the gal! I'm puzzled by the lack of mention of Andrew Davies though. He's a very experienced screenwriter (more so than Richard Curtis), both adaptations and originals. Hes done "Vanity Fair" and "Moll Flanders" recently, and "A very English marriage", for which he wrote the (original) screenplay, has just won the BAFTA Best Drama award. But don't US studios like to bring in a team of screenwriters? Perhaps Universal have called in Richard Curtis (who is more well known in the US) to add some extra "oomph". Anyway a Davies-Curtis script would have to be good! And I can't see how CF can afford not to do it...with three months in the Donmar this year, he'll need a big pay packet! One interesting fact...did you know that EMcG's husband (Ian Curtis) wrote the screenplay for "Lost Empires". Small world!

For those in need of excuses to go: you may say this is a Meeting of your Internet friends. What kind of meeting, what kind of friends? Theatre loving friends, movie loving friends, whom you meet with in the Internet to discuss precisely movies and plays, of the more obscure (sniff sniff) variety. Going to have dinner and "maybe" go to a theatre play afterwards. Why in London? Because it was so decided: old Europe at the end of the millenium. Next time it will be in America :-)

SusanMC: Good work. WGBH is the PBS station that handles all Masterpiece Theater and Great Performances series. But now you should sent it directly to Rebecca Eaton, the big Kahoona of MT, not some little programming flunkey. Gi: Will your excuse be that you will be examining CF's scalp for transplants? ;-) (Bethan) Also, he'll finally be one up on the Fiennes bros... Somebody needs to point this out to CF. Good girl, you already have his sound bites all written for the promotional tours.

How many people remember the excerpts I posteded from this novel? And how I thought Colin would be fabulous for the role of Jonathan Blair? There's a bathtub scene; clog-clad, naked kickboxing miners; and an yarn dance. ;-) Kaige plucks 'Rose' to helm CANNES -- Acclaimed Chinese director Chen Kaige, whose new film "The Emperor and the Assassin" is in competition here, will direct the detective story "Rose" for Miramax Films. Oscar-winning screenwriter Ted Tally ("Silence of the Lambs") wrote the screenplay, adapting Martin Cruz Smith's best-selling novel "Rose." The film will be produced by Mike Newell, director of "Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "Pushing Tin." The film follows Jonathan Blair, a brilliant detective sent to an English mining town to i vestigate the disappearance of a young minister. Blair falls in love with a woman who holds the key to the mystery. Though the Gong Li starrer "The Emperor" will be released domestically by Sony Classics, Chen has a long association with Miramax.

Yes, but now James will know Evelyn's name too(as one of the volvo-driving labrador-owning women of 'a certain age'). Hee hee! I plan to have James' hide for this :-)) ***** (Bethan)And I can't see how CF can afford not to do it...with three months in the Donmar this year, he'll need a big pay packet! Agree. He must have a Big Paycheck already confirmed...with only a BBC and Donmar alone he can't pay his bills.That's the only way he would commit a to long-range project that brings in such little cash.

Susan--What's the e-mail and snail-mail addresses for WGBH? Possibilities of their helping put 3DoR on the screen can be combined with the Donovan Quick enquiry. Might as well kill two birds with one stone. Also, where and to whom would be the best place to inquire BBC...Who's in charge of deciding what's to be produced?? Just asking...

About that Curtis person (Richard?), maybe his involvement will be less of a mystery if you realize that he is Helen Fielding's ex-flame.

(KJArt)Also, where and to whom would be the best place to inquire BBC...Who's in charge of deciding what's to be produced?? Just asking... ..."and you shall receive" fiona.williams@bbc.co.uk She can tell you who is in charge of Drama.I found her most accomodating. OR Suzanne Swinburne Education2@main.bbc.co.uk I hadn't forgotten about your posting ...I think it is a brilliant idea. Let's zero in on getting 3 DOR on film .Even if it only is shown in UK, we'll get the video and can have it converted. Televised plays have a v. limited audience in the US.

Evelyn--Thank you!! Bless you!!

(Arami)About that Curtis person (Richard?), maybe his involvement will be less of a mystery if you realize that he is Helen Fielding's ex-flame. In college! Evelyn, don't know if this is the place to post this, but Bedrooms & Hallways (is that the correct title?) will premiere at the Provincetown Film Festival. I don't have a date yet, but will look into it.

June 18-20 Provincetown Film Festival -The second annual film festival featuring gay and lesbian film makers. For more information call (508)487.2234 or (800)276.1948

From the Guardian: Capturing literary giants A biopic of the philandering Scots genius Robert Burns has been announced. Dougray Scott, of Twin Town and the forthcoming Mission Impossible 2, is to play the peasant poet. What with Ewan McGregor squaring up to play James Joyce in his own project, Nora, the young-Scottish-actor-as-dead-literary-titan trend gathers momentum. Kevin McKidd as Dostoevsky, anyone? *********** Not Scottish, but how about Colin as Dylan Thomas? ;-) Would be great role and there's a resemblance I've always thought...

From Liz Smith: SALMA HAYEK, in Cannes for "Dogma," stunned her handlers with her impact on the paparazzi last week. Hayek, who will also appear at the big American Foundation for AIDS Research benefit Thursday at Cannes, was mobbed big time. At least 200 photographers converged on the actress, separating her from her press people. This caused a bit of hysteria when it seemed she might vanish forever in the madding crowd! One shell-shocked Cannes veteran remarked, "never seen the like . . . only Elizabeth Taylor ever gen rated this kind of insanity." (Taylor herself arrives any second in the South of France. She presides over the annual AmFAR event.) ******** Shoot!! Between Liz Taylor and Salma Hayek, we won't see any of Colin at the benefit. Argh!!

Rebecca Eaton is the producer for Mystery! and Mobil Masterpiece Theatre. She's at WGBH Boston, 125 Western Avenue, Boston MA 02134 (www.wgbh.org). Phone for members is (617) 492-9254, otherwise 617-492-2777. Write a letter and enclose a check :-). Great Performances is not produced by WGBH. I think it's WNET in New York.

I thought Dylan Thomas was Welsh, not Scottish.

Yes, he's Welsh and Colin isn't Scottish. ;-) Just going with the flow of literary films....

Thanks Chris. I believe you're right about Great Performances being produced by WNET. Do you know who the big cheese there, because filming a play is more in line with GP's programming than MT's.

Thanks to everyone for the specific contacts at WGBH and the BBC. Would the Bravo network (on U.S. cable) also be an option for 3DOR? I've seen filmed versions of plays on Bravo, but am not sure if Bravo acquires them from other sources...

(Karen) The film will be produced by Mike Newell, director of "Four Weddings and a Funeral" I hope this doesn't mean more Hugh Grant. BTW, 'Newsweek' praised his performance in "Notting Hill"--said he limited his stuttering and eyelid fluttering. Julia was panned. Shoot!! Between Liz Taylor and Salma Hayek, we won't see any of Colin at the benefit. Argh!! Double argh! Particularly if Salma wears a low cut outfit--we'll be seeing something(s) other than CF, for sure. But I shall watch for him in earnest...

(SusanMC) Would the Bravo network (on U.S. cable) also be an option for 3DOR? I've seen filmed versions of plays on BRAVO) ..."and you shall receive"..... Joanne programming@bravo.com Bravo buys directly from BBC and Channel 4. They showed "The Maitlands" an old JE BBC play.I think they are a good contact for this. ***Thanks for all the info on Bedrooms and Hallways...It's also being shown at the NY Gay and Lesbian FF...don't think I shall see that one in mid-America...I can assure you.

Evelyn--Didn't someone say they had seen someone from the BBC attending the performance of 3DoR in March? (Alan Yentob, I think it was on the last Friday evening) Perhaps he could be cited as a reference!!! (If he liked it, that is!)

Alan Yentob was there on the first Friday.

(Karen), but how about Colin as Dylan Thomas? ;-) Karen, what an idea! You have my heart going on that one. Thanks for all the info ladies, there is strength in numbers. What's poor Colin to do amidts Liz and Salma. Let's keep our fingers crossed. Maybe Hello will give him some coverage.

Shoot!! Between Liz Taylor and Salma Hayek, we won't see any of Colin at the benefit. Argh!! I must have been living in a cupboard [closet!] for the last year but who on earth is Salma Hayek?

but who on earth is Salma Hayek? She is in every clip we've been shown from Cannes (her arrival in the convertible, the Austin Powers movie party, etc.) She's a Mexican actress of Lebanese descent who came to Hollywood's attention in such films as Desperado, Fools Rush In, etc. Was recently in 54 (Studio 54), but is in Kevin Smith's controversial movie Dogma that Miramax just screened at Cannes, looking for distributors. Oh yes, she's also the spokesperson for some quick-dry nail polish too! I'll try to find a pic of her on the web, b t a lot the news orgs have big writeups on her arrival at Cannes. The clip I saw was pretty unflattering - standing up in the convertible, shown from behind and the way that dress made her behind look....actually, it looked realistic. Salma's very pretty; looks a lot like Livia. Same kind of hairdo. Salma's boyfriend (British) was shown yesterday as he has been recording the events at Cannes himself with a camcorder!

She also wore the most gorgeous BM gown at the Oscars. ;-)))

(KJArt)Alan Yentob, I think it was on the last Friday evening) Perhaps he could be cited as a reference!!! Let's try sending him the email.....Alan Yentob@bbc.co.uk See wha' 'appens!! *** Thank you Karen, for all the sleuthing you do for us on the web....we seem to be getting the news hot off the wires !!

What do you think?

...and Colin is the perfect age. Dylan Thomas died a few days after his 39th birthday.

Karen, most definitely! Realizing, of course, that ODB is So Much more Handsome at his "ugliest" than DT ever was at his best - and I am a Cymrophile!

Yes...definite resemblance ...especially the curly hair and the hands.

Hi, here s the voice again from the backstreets of Volterra ....... could some of our British sisters please post the address of the Rent-a-Labrador Service in London. Thanks. :) PS: How many Labradors, do you think, can the Donmar lobby hold

Welcome back, Renate. Rent-a-Labrador Service LOL! With or without a close resemblance, Colin could play DT. The actor/director Tony Goldwyn is a *dead ringer* for Dylan--I thought that was Tony's picture above! GMA interviewed three ardent 'Star Wars' fans this morning to ascertain their thoughts about the movie they waited on line (camped out) for a month to see. To my surprise, each of them *hated it*. If this sentiment spreads, it can only be good for MLSF. Kid-less adults will be looking for another way to spend their entertainment dollars later this summer (now if they can just get past EWS...):-)

Hi, coming out of lurkdom for just a few seconds ... According to Jeannie Williams of USA Today, Colin Firth and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio will be at Thursday's AmFAR screening of My Life So Far or as she says it, "dolling up."

Star Wars...too much hype, too much expectation. Notting Hill (heavily hyped in the UK) opens tomorrow...it will be interesting to see what sort of reaction it gets. Sometimes it's better not to have a big build up. On literary films, the one role Colin could play is the poet Ted Hughes. Gwyneth Paltrow has already been cast as Sylvia Plath in the Miramax movie. TH was craggily handsome. But what particularly struck me was a photo of Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath's son at a memorial service...there was a striking resemblance to CF. But, hey, I'm not the casting director!

Thanks, Marianne. We had our fingers crossed. Now, if only the entertainment news shows would spare a second from their coverage of TPM and those same-old, same-old people... Rent a Labrador Service If I stuff the one who lives in the house behind me in my suitcase, I won't have to rent one! Here, doggie, doggie... Now, we will just have to be dropped off in front of the Donmar in a Volvo. Are you still in the same town, Renate? Tony Goldwyn? Shush! Let no know hear that. Besides he'd never be able to do the accent.

Marianne: Colin Firth and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio will be at Thursday's AmFAR screening of My Life So Far Does anyone know which shows are covering Cannes? If Liz Taylor will be there, I'm sure they'll show something. Marianne, I love your name...so Austen-like.

Evelyn--Do you know whatt Alan Yentob's position is at the BBC??

(Renate)How many Labradors, do you think, can the Donmar lobby hold? I don't know, but will a Yorkshire Terrier be allowed? Maybe he could pass for a Labrador, if we took Antonio's Volvo ;-)

Alan Yentob is the Big Honcho...Head of BBC1 ( I think), second-in-command to the Director-General. Allison, do you know? I know he's more than Head of Drama.

(Lidya) Does anyone know which shows are covering Cannes? If Liz Taylor will be there, I'm sure they'll show something. All the entertainment news shows have been showing Cannes: Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood and E! They will definitely show the benefit because it is an event into which the press is invited. Unfortunately, they will probably be showing Liz Taylor, Salma Hayek, Ben Affleck, Minnie Driver and the rest of the "usual suspects." Moon, does the IFC show parties at Cannes? I don't get the Independent Film Channel (boo hoo) Here's the entire article from USA Today that Marianne brought to our attention. Love the comment about "dolling up" and how Puttnam is so "proud" of his film. ********* HOT TICKETS: My Life So Far will be screened at Thursday's AmFAR fund-raiser at the Cannes Film Festival with Elizabeth Taylor as host. Producer David Puttnam is so proud of the film that he'll rush off to Cannes right after his session in the British House of Lords. You gotta have priorities, you know. The big deal also is that this story of a boy and his eccentric Scottish family is the first collaboration of Puttnam and Hugh Hudson, the director, since Chariots of Fire in 1981. Taylor was due to arrive early Tuesday, little dog Sugar in her lap or purse, to get ready for the bash at the fancy Moulin des Mougins eatery. Hair man Jose Eber will be there with comb in hand. Minnie Driver, Ben Affleck, Linda Fiorentino, Salma Hayek, Kristin Scott Thomas and Life stars Colin Firth and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio also are dolling up. A highlight will be the auction, which offers one of Princess Diana's dresses, worn on her 1992 Korea trip with Prince Charles, not to mention tennis lessons with the likes of Pete Sampras, John McEnroe, Steffi Graf and Monica Seles. Last year, the event raised $1.2 million for AIDS research, and they're pushing to beat that figure.

(Karen), Moon, does the IFC show parties at Cannes? I don't get the Independent Film Channel (boo hoo) So far no parties. Will try and call them tomorrow and see if they plan to do this one. As I said before, I am sure Hello will cover it and they will have Colin, Yeah!!!

Renate, you must tell us of your adventures in Italy, and Volterra. Welcome back!

(KJArt)Evelyn--Do you know whatt Alan Yentob's position is at the BBC?? I think he's the Top Banana/Head of Drama. Anyway...today he got my email. **** Got an answer from WGBH...the usual..."we'll pass your suggestions on to Programming".Though I think Chris was right ...we should direct a letter to Rebecca Eaton.

How would you address it so he gets it? "Allan Yentob@ etc.?"

I sent it Alan Yentob@bbc.co.uk So far it hasn't been returned. That's the address I received from previous BBC replies.

If people wouldn't anticipate this movie like it were the second coming of Christ, then we'd have a lot more satisfied customers. Unfortuantely, when it comes to sequels nowadays, people are expecting 6million Dollar Man results: bigger, better, stronger, faster. I've got tickets for tomorrow night. Will anticipate nothing.

Allison: Go here to see Salma at Cannes: Salma on the Beach

From BBC News: Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor is to hold her annual celebrity-packed Cinema Against Aids benefit evening at Cannes on Thursday. Stars expected to join Taylor - and pay �1,500 for the privilege - include Ben Affleck, Minnie Driver, Anjelica Huston, David Lynch and Tom Jones. Madonna and Julia Roberts are also rumoured to be flying into Cannes for the party. [could merit major time on news shows] Last year actress Sharon Stone danced [this is what we were shown of the benefit] to Sir Elton John's piano playing and helped to raise more than �720,000. [...] Before the auction a new film from Chariots of Fire director Hugh Hudson will be screened. My Life So Far stars the British actor Colin Firth. Other stuff from article that should make you gag: Brit actors enjoying the sunshine Meanwhile British actors Jude Law and Sadie Frost flew in to Cannes to enjoy the last few days of the festival and publicise their film The Final Cut which is out in August. [...] Law also announced that he plans to play the Elizabethan playwright Christopher Marlowe in a forthcoming film to be made by his production company Natural Nylon. Ewan McGregor, who with actor Jonny Lee Miller make up the rest of Natural Nylon, is tipped to play Shakespeare in the film. Director John Maybury, who made Love Is The Devil about artist Francis Bacon, was keen for the team to work on the film, even though it follows so closely on the heels of the blockbuster about Marlowe's more famous contemporary - Shakespeare. But the new project is likely to be much darker than Shakespeare In Love. Law said of Maybury and the film: "It is going to be black. The first reference point he gave us was The Evil Dead." Law also has other projects in the pipeline. He plans to play Brian Epstein, the manager of The Beatles, in another film being developed by Natural Nylon.

The Arts Council of England has defended its record of distributing lottery money to British films - even though none of the projects it has backed has yet made a profit. [...] The council's lottery film committee chairman, Charles Denton, said no-one should be surprised that returns from the �67m it had invested in 79 films were slow. [...] Denton said his committee's achievements were "not uncheerful", adding: "Out of 49 completed films, only six have so far not secured a cinema release. "The recoupment of a film's budget is a very long proces - unless it is a dog, in which case it's very short."

Thanks Karen! It's amazing to see how Ewan is getting all the good parts. As I've said before, Colin should start his own production company to develop interesting projects for himself to star in. Hopefully, that day is not too far away. There should be a group picture in all the papers tomorrow.

Here's a link that the Independant Film Channel of Cannes: (I hope this works) http://ifctv.com/events/cannes99/text_bot.html

From The Times (re: SLOW) Lottery-funded films fail to show a profit WHEN lottery players paid for Colin Firth to star in a film called The Secret Laughter of Women, little did they know how secret the laughs would be. The �3.3 million movie, described as a romantic comedy set among the Nigerian community in the South of France, has never been shown on a British screen. The film is among an embarrassing and growing list of lottery films which have yet to announce a release date, even though the Arts Council promised that all its titles would get into the cinemas before giving companies the money. The council said yesterday that none of the films in which it has invested lottery money has made a profit, but asked the public to be patient. "That is possibly the time factor or possibly that we have not had many successes," Charles Denton, chairman of the lottery film panel, told a press conference in Cannes. "The council accepts that not every film it supports will achieve critical acclaim or commercial success. It has always seen its lottery film programme as part of a long-term strategy to enhance the prospects of the film sector." He conceded that no lottery-funded movie had "made plus-100 per cent of its spend". So far, 79 feature films have been awarded �67 million over the past four years: of those, he said, 18 have made enough money to repay any of their lottery investment - �3 million so far - as the others have not reached "the marketplace". Mr Denton said that the recouping period was long-term. He would not be prepared to release figures anyway at this stage, even though lottery money was involved, because matching funding from the private sector made that difficult. He said that films took years to make and he would be concerned if their makers rushed them into production before scripts were ready. He added that 16 per cent of the lottery funds had been allocated to black and Asian films. The most successful film has been The Woodlanders, followed by True Blue and Shooting Fish. Others which have made some money include Love is the Devil, about Francis Bacon, Land Girls, Slab Boys, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Among Giants. Three franchises received lottery money to create "mini-studios": DNA, The Film Consortium and Path� who were allocated a share of �95 million over six years in 1997. DNA reported that it signed contracts for its �29 million only a year ago. Two films have now gone into production: Night of the Creatures and The Final Curtain. The Film Consortium, which got �33.55 million in its share, said that �5.5 million spent so far on films had attracted a further �13 million from the private sector. Path� Pictures, which got �33.12 million, has so far made Ratcatcher and An Ideal Husband. One turkey which cost lottery players �500,000 was Peggy Su!, released in Singapore in 1997 but considered too weak for British cinemas. It was shown on television.

Thanks Karen....Salma is a "dead-ringer" for Livia. *** Thanks Moon, but I didn't have any success with that link. I'll try it on Explorer.

It looks adorable!! Had a feeling that it might be there... Miramax has finally put My Life So Far up at its website and there's a trailer!! Colin is mentioned first and shown quite a bit. Cute scene running after his son and out of a window after him. Has a jazzy soundtrack from the '20s or '30s. You hear Colin speak a couple of times. Go to: http://www.miramax.com The trailer is BIG 5.4MB and will take about 20 min with a 56K modem but it's worth it. YOWZA!!!

Good grief, seems I can�t see the trailer properly with this lousy equipment of mine....oh**** Thanks for the tip anyway Karen, I can imagine!!

Which one of the options are you using? There's Quicktime and the other? I used the "other," even the shot of the house showed up right away. There's a little glitchy noise at the beginning, but then it runs smoothly. How can it be saved so we don't have to download it each time. I'm downloading right now Real Player's newest upgrade, in which the picture is larger. Don't know if this will help at all. Nan, can you get Snappies off the trailer? BTW, no Scottish accents!! Take that Ewan!

I SAW IT!! It's a treat....Colin in a 20's bathing suit...sporting those glasses we all love... and that little boy is darling.... all this and Satchmo.... Hey...I want that sound track,now. "The Summer Hit".....Roll on July 16th!!

(Evelyn)...sporting those glasses we all love... HA!!! I KNEW he'd look handsome and distinguished in a pair of spectacles. ;)

Ooooh...nice trailer. I downloaded them both and they are not realvideo files. Both the AVI and the Quicktime give the same 1" x 1" results. But he is cute...but that comes as no surprise ;) If anyone finds a way to use Real on them, let me in on the secret!

It is possible to play the quicktime on a screen about 3 x 3 but you have to go into your files where the stuff you download from the internet is stored temporarily. Mine is Netscape/users/default/cache. In there is a wee movie camera with M193raqf. change that name to MLSF and move it to a permanent file. Click on that little movie camera and there is your movie!

(Karen) Nan, can you get Snappies off the trailer? If I can download it, then open it in Quicktime Pro I can swipe it frame by frame. I'll give it a try when I get home...

Thanks for the warning about the trailer's load time, Karen. It is charming-- different than the one they were running last year briefly. I did hear a trace of a Scots accent (it was more pronounced in that other trailer). Can't wait to see CF back on the big screen! OK, ET is about to come on--have VCR set up for this and Access H'wood. I hope Rosie O'Donnell didn't fight with anyone today. I want the air time for ODB! I'm off to watch...with fingers crossed. They're both gorgeous but IMHO Livia's prettier than Salma, Evelyn. PS. I have the beginning of ET on. It's Rosie and Tom and a rehash of their fight (with Howard Stern thrown in--gag). They mentioned Ben Affleck rubbing elbows with Liz Taylor in Cannes, so there will be a story. I'm outta here!

With previews like your. Eileen, I will not waste my time on it when it come on here in about 4 hours! Definite advantage for the Hawaii dwellers!

OK, nothing of real interest on Access Hollywood or ET. Showed people (Jerry Hall, Salma Hayek and of course Liz) arriving at the gala. Both shows said they would have more coverage tomorrow. I'd bet ET's weekend edition also has a decent sized segment. Nothing on E! Probably tomorrow as well. Nothing on CNN Showbiz. I think that's it!! Nan, asked a guy at a nearby store and he said Quicktime Pro would do it and you should be able to save with Windows Media Player. Marcia, I couldn't find the file in my cache for either IE or Netscape. I'm going to try this again.

Karen, I'd still try for the downloaded files and rename them. Then move them to a safe file as where you find them will dump data when it is full. QuickTime Pro costs. Let us know if you think it was worth the $$ because if you can't find the little file. Thanks for the rundown of the evening's offerings on the Cannes-Firth-watching. I shall hunt for more things for Gi's shower rather than waste my time on the TV ET shows!

I have scanned the major Italian papers who love Liz and yes, they did mention the Gala and lots of stars, I even posted the menu on 72, but no mention of ODB or MLSF. Will see what happens tomorrow on TV.

From the UK Press Assoc.: SEXY SALSA COSTS �33,000 AT LIZ'S CHARITY BASH Salma Hayek spiced up the annual Cannes Aids benefit with a sexy salsa lesson for fellow Dogma star Ben Affleck. She hitched up her glamorous satin gown and swung her hips to the Latin rhythm at the request of producer Harvey Weinstein. He bid �33,000 at the high-rolling charity auction hosted by screen legend Elizabeth Taylor - and ended up tangoing with Ben Affleck himself.

Got 'em. I just love my QT Pro...

Nan.... Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! oh Yum. :) *drooling*

Ok, I'm convinced. I'm going to download the QT Pro! Thanks, Nan. You have never let us down =)

Ok ladies, I just discovered that with the AVI format, which gives you the larger picture, you can opt for full screen (your monitor screen) size. Wow!!! Close up it is a little pixelly so you sit back a ways, but my he does look fine!!!

(KJArt)Evelyn--Do you know whatt Alan Yentob's position is at the BBC?? He is Director of Television, BBC. Off to watch clip. Whee!

(KJArt)Evelyn--Do you know whatt Alan Yentob's position is at the BBC?? He is Director of Television, BBC. Off to watch MLSF clip. Whee!

Isn't Netscape wonderful. It now posts twice; an improvement on IE4!

Nan!! Fantastic!! Thank you. He is just so adorable in this. Warning to anyone who opts for full screen: BE VERY CAREFUL! I did this shortly after getting my new PC and it totally changed all the settings on the PC, so that the opening desktop was huge and you couldn't navigate around at allwith a mouse. I had to restore the settings from the DOS setup. The tech support guy at Micron was really impressed by how screwed up it was. Nevah again!! Thanks Marcia, I now have the trailer all captured for viewing on demand. Now if I could only get the movie... :-)

Thanks Nan for giving us our own video stills. Murph tells me she also has them up on her website: http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/mlsf.html#new **** Harvey tangoing with Ben Affleck? Did any of the shows capture that one?

Just skimmed the papers at work (although we don't get all of them). Three mentions of the MLSF premiere and a photo (that's the good news!) The bad news is that the photo is always of Jerry Hall "attending the premiere of Hugh Hudson's "My Life so Far", and there's absolutely no mention of Colin....I would have thought they could have added "starring Colin Firth". But no!! Minnie Driver and Ben Affleck got mentions. The Daily Telegraph gave the event huge front page coverage, and it would have been good ublicity for CF...if only they'd mentioned his name! GRRRRR!!!! The invisible man syndrome....yet again! And he does have a very beautiful wife! Great snappies! Thanks, Nan and Murph!

The Daily Mail does mention CF. It has the picture of Jerry Hall and says that she chatted to the stars of the film MM and CF!

Quality is much better with the newest release of Real Player G2. Did zoom to double size (too chicken for full screen) and a little grainy but NICE...hmmmm I expect there to be a big spread in PEOPLE mag next week and those other celebrity magazines.

From the Financial Times, as spotted by AnneR (thanks): Puttnam says goodbye The annual AmFar screening and exclusive dinner on Thursday evening to benefit Aids charities, attracted the big name stars to the early evening screening of Hugh Hudson's new film My Life So Far. The producer of the film, Lord David Puttnam introduced it saying it would be his last and that this would be his last Cannes. He said that when he started in the film business he had ambitions to become the next Irving Thalberg, but joked that he did not have the business sense for that. He went on to praise fellow host Harvey Weinstein, chief executive of Miramax, applauding his continued vision and daring without which he said "the film industry today would not be what it is". The film was dedicated to Ian Chaleson, the star of Hudson's Oscar winning film Chariots of Fire, who died of Aids related illness. The screening was attended by many of the biggest Hollywood names, including the stars of the film, including Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Malcolm McDowell, Colin Firth and Salma Hayek. It was followed by a benefit dinner at the exclusive Moulin de Mougins restaurant hosted by Miramax to be attended by Aids campaigner Elizabeth Taylor. ******** See what happens when you don't properly punctuate? Salma Hayek is now considered to be part of the cast! Or maybe the author thought Irene Jacob was Salma? ;-)

Yummy Murph and Nan, thank you.

(Karen) See what happens when you don't properly punctuate? Salma Hayek is now considered to be part of the cast! And ODB is listed after MEM and MMcD. Here we go again. Grrrr... Salma's got some publicist. She pops up everywhere. I read an article about her in some magazine (it could have been Mirabella) which focused on the entourage of 20 people she requires--no exaggeration! OK, the number did include her mother and brother, but there are 18 other people who work on/with/for this chick. That's probably 15 or so more than Colin (well, he doesn't wear make up on a daily basis). Harvey tangoing with Ben? Be still, my heart :-P Have got the VCR revved up to catch ET and AH again tonight. Besides Liz, Jerry, Salma and Ben, ET did show split second glimpses of MEM and MMcD entering the gala last night. There was not a Firth in sight :-( I have a feeling Mary and Malcolm will get the air time instead of ODB because they are more recognizable by US audiences (although I don't recall seeing much of MEM in the news until just lately). Regardless, it will all be dealt with in mere seconds. Perhaps I'll be pleasantly surprised. They're running commercials for EWS already. Thanks for those pics, Nan!

Thanks Nan for the pixs and Karen for the info. I have an important announcement on 72. I invite you to stop by.

Thanks from me too, Nan & Murph, wonderful of you to put the stills up so quickly. Watching the trailer seems impossible for me so the stills comfort me very much! And I see from the pics that MSLF is a dangerous movie, it�ll make me fall for him all over again.

Well, I booted my Real G2 player and it offered me an upgrade, so I sat for 15 minutes while it did just that. Then I downloaded the trailer. Now, I ave all 3 versions. The QT is the smallest, the Real is the blurriest, and my AVI is the sharpest. On this 266 mhz PC.

Blurriest? Did you do a major enlargement? I only downloaded the .avi clip and that's what my Real Player plays. Didn't see anything this afternoon on CNN Showbiz, but missed the first half. More likely to see something on those Showbiz minutes at the end of many of its shows. The half hour Showbiz report is probably put together days ago and is magazine like. Hey, the movie set was having a BBQ for lunch today. Drove by twice. Didn't see David Duchovney (hey, if anyone saw him being interviewed on AH last night, that was here!!) and didn't expect to see Minnie Driver. Will really get to see them all when they start shooting next door. Hmmm, maybe I can cozy up to Minnie and ask about Colin. Yeah, sure, uh huh... ;-)

(Elena)And I see from the pics that MSLF is a dangerous movie, it�ll make me fall for him all over again. LOL. Oh, how right you are Elena. ***** (Karen)hey, if anyone saw him being interviewed on AH last night I saw him on ET and looked for you as an "extra"!! *** With Salma doing a Hot Salsa, and Ben and Harvey tangoing...you expect those tv cameras to focus on staid Colin???

Doesn't CNN have an hour-long Entertainment Show tonight? **** Anyone notice how similar Rosemary Harris and JE sound. Same velvety voice. (One rude critic once referred to it as "froggy"!!)

E! does an hour-long show (the weekend edition) but it is being preempted tonight because of the Daytime Emmy Awards pre-game show. Another nonevent-event usurping coverage of ODB!

CNN had the hour show last night, but nothing, it was all about TV shows. My husband watched RAI News(Italian) and they did have a big thing on Cannes, I was out with my boys. Does he care about Cannes, NO! Did he tape it, NO! If he only knew that all I wanted was to catch a glimps of Colin, but that, I shall keep to myself.;-))

ET On-Line has a good spread on Cannes...Couldn't find anything on Colin..but gives lots of pics of the Grand Palais, map of Cannes, those rooms that go for $1000./night!! http://www.eonline.com/Hot/Features/Cannes99/index.html

Karen, I do not know how you got your AVI file to run on Real Player, but shall ask my son-the-geek about it tonight. My AVI has a similar player without all the bells and whistles and options. I usually listen to music on Real, and I watch the Berlin interview from time to time =)) Yes, Evelyn, I was going to ask the same thing about Mum's voice and JE's being so similar. I read somewhere it was "smoky" When JE was interviewed for the part of Lizzie, I recall someone noting "has her Mother's voice..." BTW, when one is asleep, does it really matter that the room cost more than a year's salary for half the world? That is obscene!

Thanks for the pics, Nan. Love the spectacles .

Glad to hear he got a mention in the good ol' Daily Mail! I think Colin should "borrow" Salma Hayek's publicist for five minutes (although I must admit I'd never heard of her!) Am going to try and download the MLSF clip today...I really like the snappies -it looks like my type of movie! On a more boring note, had no reply (typically) from the Arts Council about SLOW. Thanks for posting the article about lottery funded films, Karen...I thought it contained some very inaccurate biased reporting (where's that publicist?) I have infact seen "Peggy Su", the other film labeled (unfairly) as a turkey. It was shown on the BBC, as it was a co-production with them, and was all about Chinese immigrants in the early 60's in the UK, trying for success. I thought it was a warm, charming little film. I was scripted by a Chineses writer, and all the cast were Chinese. There was absolutely nothing "wrong" with it...it just wasn't the sort of commercial material that gets picked up for the multiplexes. SLOW may well be in the same category..scripted by a Nigerian, focusing on African culture...but i'm sure there's nothing wrong with it, apart from not being obviously commercial. There was a recent report by the Commission for Racial Equality in the UK stating that ethnic minorities should have more opportunities in film production/screenplays etc. When I've got a moment. I'll e-mail them about SLOW (and Peggy Su)...someone need to come to the defence of these films!!!

Entertainment Weekly senior writer Rebecca Ascher-Walsh is reporting daily from Cannes.... Last night was the AMFAR dinner, which really was quite disappointing. Let's just include these little details: Dinner began at 8:30, but we weren't served our first course of asparagus until 11:50, which meant that everyone was exhausted and had consumed FAR too much champagne. The delay was due to La Liz, who couldn't be found to start the auction. When she finally got up to give her speech, the fuse in the tent blew, and we were all plunged into darkness. By the time everything was back up and running, it became clear that the usual big spenders weren't there; the people who are always draped in diamonds and busy outbidding each other must have stayed on their yachts. Minnie Driver, who was supposed to help run the auction, was a no-show, and the biggest star-wattage was at the table beside us, which seated Harvey Weinstein and the ''Dogma'' crew: Ben Affleck, Salma Hayek looking cute in diamonds and a fluffy blue angora, Kevin Smith, and his eight-month pregnant wife, who said she's crossing her legs not to deliver here. (You see, Kevin wants their baby to be born in the same hospital in New Jersey that he was born in.) At our table, we had Anouk Aimee, who is still G RGEOUS, and Ron Silver, and quite a few diamonds, as well. Anyway, it was all a dreadful bore, if you ask me, and I wouldn't have gotten home if I hadn't thrown myself at the mercy of ''Ideal Husband'' director Oliver Parker, who was kind enough to let us squeeze into his Mercedes with his driver at the end of the night. Much madness for nothing, much like the whole festival, although they did give out very fine Tommy Hilfiger jackets as party favors. Now I'm off to my last lunch (I repeat: LAST LAST LAST LAST) for another Miramax party, then a party tonight at which Tom Jones is performing, and I am OUT OF HERE. ************** Another Miramax party today? Maybe Colin will stay? Maybe he's struck up a friendship with Salma?

(Bethan)... I think Colin should "borrow" Salma Hayek's publicist for five minutes (although I must admit I'd never heard of her!) (Karen) ...Another Miramax party today? Maybe Colin will stay? Maybe he's struck up a friendship with Salma? SALMA HAYEK; On the cover of Premiere Mag (US) and interview: B. in Mexico of Middle Eastern father and Mexican mother. Will starr with Will smith in this summer's $100.Million Plus film: Wild , Wild West. Played with Antonio Banderas in Desperado. About to turn 3-0. ...petite.. 5'2" size D cup!! Boyfriend British actor Edward Atterton ( they met on the set of Hunchback" in "97). Is currently at Cannes to plug the film "Dogma" with Ben Affleck and Matt Damon. A controversial religious satire...which is in competition.Has her own production company which produced the screen adaptation of Gabriel Garcia Marquez "No one Writes to the Colonel". In September will star in "Frida"the biopic of artist Frida Kahlo. Which she is co-producing with Miramax. I don't think we have heard the last of Salma.....that gal is here to stay!!

Yippeeee....I�ve seen it! My ingenious husband made some installments and we watched the trailer a minute ago. He admired the quality of it while I admired....well, you know. And the movie looks pretty good, sort of fresh. But doesn�t it look weird that Colin�s character falls in love with Irene Jacob�s character who looks so very much like Colin�s wife?! Reminds me of something I recently read in Sunday Times ;-)

I have been checking Entertainment Weekly but can't find anything about MLSF. Has anyone else had any success. I have no access to the Daily Mail. E.W. has many, many movies listed but no MLSF and nothing about the Firth's

From the Sunday Times: David Puttnam has promised that My Life So Far will be his last movie. Adapted from the memoirs of Sir Denis Forman, the former Granada Television boss, the film follows the young Denis and his relationship with his elders amid the Scottish Highlands. Puttnam might have wanted his swansong production to be shown in competition at Cannes. But it was not, though it was selected for an Aids charity screening. It could, however, be seen earlier last week in a cinema in a Cannes backstreet for market buyers. I tried to get in. I was banned. Even pleading on the phone with the head of press at mighty Miramax, which has financed the �4m film, failed. "You need a letter from Hugh Hudson." Tricky, since My Life So Far was just about to begin and Hudson, the mov e's director, was in Britain. Why has this 1997 movie taken so long to be shown? Forman himself did not sound encouraging. "I took the money for the rights and ran," he told me. "I really have no curiosity about it. Forman did, though, see a rough cut some time ago. "I thought Colin Firth was very good," was his only comment. Firth plays Forman's father. I gather too that the people in this film have been fictionalised. The Rev Adam Forman becomes the non-Rev Edward Pettigrew, while young Denis is James. Eventually Hudson phones. "Denis himself thought it best to change the names. To protect family and friends still living." Or to protect himself?

Hmmmm...very hostile reporting that will do the film no ggod. It implies that it wasn't good enough for the competition ( although it isn't the type of film which would be selected anyway), stresses that it was made in 1997 (Miramax should have released it earlier...the critics always pick up on the fact that films are delayed), and quotes Denis Forman's very unhelpful remarks (if he doesn't care about the film, why should we?) Also I don't thik the press are ever allowed into market screenings, but by us ng the word "banned" it looks as though Miramax are protecting this film ( although it can be seen by the public in a few days in Newport). But that's a real downer of a press story, and won't help MLSF.

It is a nasty little piece. For example: "Puttnam might have wanted his swansong production to be shown in competition at Cannes." Well, did he? Did this reporter ask him that? If so, why isn't it a direct quote from Puttnam? Then I imagine the reporter called Forman up who was totally disinterested ("I really have no curiosity about it.") and had only seen a "rough cut" some time ago. This article gives all appearance of a hatchet job. Putting thoughts into people's heads and drawing conclusions from suppositions. You're right, Bethan, this is not a Cannes-type film.

Looking through my rose colored glasses, I don't see the article as that negative. Rarely does the book's author find the finished product satisfactory. Evelyn, you've been telling me the book is a snooze. It's still sitting on my bedside table collecting dust. Is this the London Times? The article will be forgotten by the time the film is released in England.

Out of lurkdom this rainy Sunday Morning in New Jersey to remark that the book, "Son of Adam," is quite interesting, IMO, at least in the first part. His telling of the family's history and the insights into his mother, "Gamma," and father are fascinating. Adam Forman was indeed a figure larger than life, and completely eccentric. The impression I DID get from the book is that Forman did not like his father much at all. The latter part of the book, when he breaks with the family's religious views and when he leaves home are, as Evelyn says, a bit of a bore. Still, if you have a copy, I recommend reading the beginning, especially now that we can picture Colin whenever Adam is described. (No bathing suit at all in that morning swim, BTW). Murph

Thanks Murph for posting your views. I tend to agree with Evelyn's assessment and have read the book. However, there are others here who did enjoy it too. To me the book was nothing out of the ordinary insofar as they were recollections of a childhood, a child's fascination with a variety bodily functions, etc. Cannot help but wonder though if this had been about anybody else (not Dennis Forman of Granada television and author of many books about music) would his memoirs have been published and then optioned for a movie?? Am way too cynical for my own good. Also, why did they change the story? Why did they create a little lusting after the Irene Jacob c aracter? Adam Forman was happily married and apparently had a decent sex life (something about taking naps in the afternoon, as I recall!)