Colin Firth (Part 5)

Thank you, Heide, for being so prompt this time. Now I need not fear having my pearls of wisdom cut off by a topic with dyspepsia! Now if we could only get some solid confirmations of what the DB is supposed to be doing, when, and where, I would be content! :-[

I'd be more or less certain that he's doing both Londinium and RV. BBC Online is very reliable, and if it says that the filming starts this weekend, then I guess he must be back at work (great weather this weekend). I see no reason why he can't do both, even if there's an overlap. Part of the filming for RV is in the South of France and "Peter" won't be in these scenes. BTW the producer of RV was one of the school"boys" in Another Country. RV has American backing (money) and Londinium seems scheduled for release next year, and may also (because of the story line) have US backing. At least we will get to see them, hopefully on both sides of the Atlantic. I've come to the conclusion that there's almost no point nowadays in appearing in British films (even if well reviewed) because so many just get single screen releases and then disappear into oblivion! But I'm still waiting to see him in the dramatic role he deserves! Welcome back Evelyn! I'm very glad that both JE and CF have got such well deserved recognition for their stage work. And I'm also pleased that the prices for 3DOR have been raised. I think it will be taken more seriously as a "must-see" event if tickets are �30, not �8! And hopefully CF's name will be listed in the billing!

If anyone is concerned about reading spoilers for My Life So Far on our regular topics, I'll gladly make a new topic for the lucky few who will see it in a few weeks. Your thoughts? My thinking about Relative Values is that the fact that Julie Andrews is working again would make some news in the States and I have heard not a peep. Makes me wonder if the project has fallen through. Im sure we'll find out soon enough. And hopefully CF's name will be listed in the billing! That would be a nice change. I wonder too if The Secret Laughter of Women will still be listed under Colin's credits in the program.

You asked for our thoughts on a separate spoilers topic for MLSF: I will read it anyway. Just as I did SiL before I saw it the first time. I am eager enough to know more about his work than I am to be caught up in the story. It just might be the best way for me to get a good idea of the film while waiting for it to get to Hilo. Wherever you put it, I shall go there and read =)

From the Sunday Times: Shakespeare in Love gave prince his title by Christopher Morgan IN THE film, Wessex is insufferable, but Prince Edward had the idea for his new title, the Earl of Wessex, after seeing the fictional character during a private screening of Shakespeare in Love with Sophie Rhys-Jones, it can now be revealed. He proposed the title, which has lain dormant since the death of King Harold in 1066, to the Queen after courtiers had prevaricated for months. They had ruled against his first choice, the Duke of Cambridge, saying it was too senior a title for Edward, who is seventh in line to the throne. Officials also felt that the creation of a new dukedom, the highest-ranking tier of the peerage, would be out of kilter with proposed reform of the House of Lords. The Queen has accepted that existing royal dukes will lose their seats. "It was an ingenious solution that luckily satisfied both parties," said a palace source. The Oscar-winning film, which has grossed �175m worldwide, is a fictional account of attempts by the Elizabethan playwright - played by Joseph Fiennes - to woo Viola (Gwyneth Paltrow), who is to be married to the charmless Lord Wessex (played by Colin Firth). Anybody who has seen the film might be forgiven for thinking that Wessex, one of the most memorable screen villains for years, is a less than appropriate role model for the Queen's youngest son. When discussing marriage and Viola, he asks her father: "Is she fertile? Is she obedient?" Shortly afterwards, having been kept waiting by Viola, he is told she is praying. "Piety is for Sunday," he retorts. "It would be better if she got off her knees and showed some servility to her lord and master." After coldly telling her that her father has agreed to their marriage, he tells her to "be submissive, modest and grateful" when she meets the Queen, who has approved the marriage. Kept waiting again by Viola, he orders her maid "to produce her, with or without her undergarments". Seeing Shakespeare dance with Viola, he puts a knife to the playwright's throat and accuses him of "coveting his property". He subsequently vows to kill Christopher Marlowe, whom he is led to believe is his bride-to-be's lover. Stanley Wells, professor of Shakespeare studies at Birmingham University, says: "Edward may have identified with the glamorous Firth, but otherwise I can't see any similarity between the two Wessexes." Firth, best-known as the dashing Darcy in the 1995 BBC production of Pride and Prejudice, has pointed out that his Wessex was "not a particularly lovable creature". Edward, whose television production company Ardent has made several historical documentaries, such as Crown and Country, "thoroughly enjoyed the film". According to a source close to the prince, however, "it was the title - not the totally fictitious character portrayed in the film - that impressed him. He was aware that, by calling himself Wessex, he was forging a direct link between the House of Windsor and the country's first Anglo-Saxon kings". In about 1018 Godwine, chief adviser to King Canute, was created Earl of Wessex. On his death the earldom passed to his son Harold, who was killed at the Battle of Hastings. The film, which is to be released on video in August, focuses on two of the themes closest to Edward's heart: British history and the theatre. After gaining A-levels in history and English literature, Edward taught both subjects at Collegiate School in Wanganui, New Zealand. After initially opting to read archeology and anthropology at Cambridge, he switched to history, but is best remembered at university for his keen interest in drama. He went on to join Andrew Lloyd Webber's Really Useful Company. "The Queen was initially somewhat taken aback by Edward's suggestion," said a Buckingham Palace source. "But Edward made an effective case for taking the title." Harvey Weinstein, who bankrolled Shakespeare In Love, was unavailable for comment this weekend, but a source at Miramax said: "He will be thrilled to learn he may have influenced the course of British history." In addition to the Wessex name, Edward and his wife, a public relations executive, have also been given the titles of Viscount and Viscountess Severn, in honour of her Welsh roots. On the death of his father, Edward will move two rungs up the peerage to become Duke of Edinburgh, which would make Sophie the duchess.

"I am going to claim to be related to the Earl of Wessex" my grandmother's name was Godwine cheeky I know but I also have an affinity with MLSF I believe the name of the house was Harewood - that was my maiden name. Cheek I know but I couldn't resist it. At 6.00p.m. our time Pride and Prejudice is back on screen. But I am not allowed to watch it - my husband said under no circumstances, you have the video!! unfortunately - but they are showing trailors during the week so I put up with that.

Thanks for the Article, Karen! I for one, am against the proposed reform of the House of Lords. The Queen should not have accepted it. The future Duke of Edinborough would have been an asset to the House of Lords. It is very cute to say that he may identify with the glamorous Firth. Arrivederci to all my friends in Firthland, see in Aug. Stay well and have a great summer. :-D

Bye Moon...we'll miss you. Say hi to Jennifer for me and hey keep an eye out for ODB in Italy. Thanks Karen....yeah, yeah...sure he identified solely with the historical character!!

Cheerio Moon, have a good hoiday and come back safely. Look forward to hearing what you think of the play when you return. BFN.

Blip on the radar screen!! I've just received word that a friend in San Diego actually saw the MLSF trailer in a theater yesterday. Hoorah!!! It preceded "An Ideal Husband." She said that the buzz was good about it and she especially liked the little bits with Fraser and brandy snifter of milk and the cigar in the library. In fact, as soon as it started, she knew what movie it was. Wouldn't we all? ;-D

Hi all: Thanks to Jolanta and Martine, I have a description of Colin (looks) and Colin (performance) at Jongleurs on the News Page. Murph

Bless you, Murph. Don't know what we'd do without you!! Thank you Jolanta and Martine for the on-the-spot- report.

Mary, thanks for posting Jolanta's and Martine's story from Jongleurs. Now, why can't I write in Ross for your survey (especially for the house question and the last one)? ;-)

Yes my thanks to you Mary, Jolanta and Martine the description was great, you could almost feel yourself there. One day perhaps....

Thanks Mary. Oh lovely, a goatee beard, that must befor Londiniun but I can't see it working for RV, hope he doesn't shave off the goateee and leave just the moustache, please anything but just a moustache!!

Thanks for the Jongleurs link, Murph! Pencil-slim goatees are very much in fashion at the moment (and look good!) so perhaps he's playing an "attractive" character in Londinium! Hope that someone told Harvey about the Wessex connection....you see, even in a supporting role Colin can change the face of constitutional history. :-) Glad that MLSF has finally reached the trailer stage. Coupling it with An Ideal Husband makes sense. I wonder what sort of promotion it will get...the big guns (Eyes Wide Shut) will be out in force and will get acres of coverage. But will Middle America rush to see EWS? I was reading a review by Alexander Walker (buddy of Kubrick).He praised it, but the content (explicit sex, necrophilia, murder) sounded distasteful. Films can be "good" but not very watchable. What sort of promotion did AIH get? Did RE give interviews? Perhaps MEM will cover MLSF as Colin will be filming in the UK. Enjoy Italia, Moon!

I'll add my thanks to Jolanta and Martine for attending and to Murph for posting their observations so timely! Anybody who has seen the film might be forgiven for thinking that Wessex, one of the most memorable screen villains for years Thanks for the article, Karen. It was nice to read this even though it's been nearly seven months since SiL opened in the US. Thanks to Edward (not QE as we originally thought--she's too busy playing with the Gameboy she keeps in her pocketbook) for the free CF publicity!!

and so much of it, tons more than when the film first came out, its quite ironical really, but as long as it keeps him in in the limelight then that is all that matters. I must say is sounds as if Colin is even more gorgeous that ever and he says he is too old to play the romantic lead, who is he kidding, according to Jolanta & Martine he looks younger and younger, and I thought he looked younger six months ago, how young can you get. I do like the idea of a goatee beard, very droolable.

(Bethan)What sort of promotion did AIH get? Miramax did their usual ..flying journalists from each big city to Hollywood where they got to interview the stars, director etc. We had one in our paper. ** Did RE give interviews? Yes...was a little miffed...because the reporters kept asking about his gay status and how it would impact his straight romantic role...."I am an actor", he replied testily.Julianne Moore and Mini Driver came to his defense and said what a romantic guy he is..... Perhaps MEM will cover MLSF as Colin will be filming in the UK. That's what you think!! This is not MEM movie...it's Colin's. The success of the film rests on his shoulders.....if Harvey says "Here" I betcha he'll be there!! *** I called my local Miramax rep this morning and he said we would get MLSF on July 30. I asked if Miramax was planning a press conference with the stars....he assured me they would as this is the usual Miramax protocol; he is going to find out as to when, where and with whom. Don't hold your breath....after SLOW, I'm getting cynical.

Re: Middle America and EWS How does the cover of Time magazine strike you? Next week's has bare-skinned Tom and Nicole. Title: "Cruise & Kidman Like You've Never Seen Them" Exclusive. Hollywood's top couple on EWS and our look at Stanley Kubrick's haunting final masterpiece." Publicity about it is everywhere, which is amazing given the subject matter. Oh well, WE will rush off to see a quaint story about a little boy in Scotland who has one helluva gorgeous father and whose little pinkie can outact all of the Cruises. ;-)

Evelyn sent me a packet full of news clippings. One from TVTimes has portions of its 100 Greatest Television Shows. P&P came in 31. Here's the writeup: "What was the sexiest moment ever on British TV? It wasn't about bare bottoms, smackeroony kisses or a sweaty couple working out under the duvet. It was the delectable Darcy, the man who kept his trousers on to emerge dripping from the lake in that electrifying scene in Pride and Prejudice, putting it at 31 in our Top 100 list. "It was called the 'Darcy phenomenon' by the BBC and millions of viewers were seduced every week by the charms of Colin Firth as the brooding hero. "How did he manage to set the screen alight? Andrew Davies, who wrote the �6 million series, explains: 'Colin's smouldering glances hinted at much more than desire -- there was a vulnerability and loneliness there that must have had a lot of women fastasising about how happy they might make him.' "Never have actors been so sexy with their clothes on!"

[T]here that must have had a lot of women fastasising about how happy they might make him.' Ohhhh, yes...

"Never have actors been so sexy with their clothes on!" Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, please note! (BTW perceptive comments by Andrew Davies) I'm just wondering why Miramax, after delaying the release of MLSF for nearly a year, chose to let it open in the same week as EWS. After waiting so long, another couple of weeks wouldn't matter. Or are they really being clever and thinking that there may be some women out there who appreciate that sex appeal isn't always sex! On EWS, am I the only one who thinks there may be something rather voyeuristic about this movie? But I hope that MLSF gets some coverage (maybe a paragraph in Time Mag!). And of course, whatever week it opened, there would have been a Big Movie to contend with! I was impressed by Colin's choice of Ovid. (Who reads Ovid these days?) A highly appropriate choice. Maybe Livia's influence. At the height of his fame, Ovid was falsely accused of high treason, on the grounds that he had had an affair with Julia, the licentious daughter of the Emperor Augustus and his wife Livia. Ovid was banished into exile. He wrote repeatedly begging to return as he found the pain of exile unendurable (the theme of his poem "Tristia"). He was never pardoned and died after ten years o exile...rumour had it that he committed suicide because he couldn't bear the thought of never seeing his family or friends again. That's cheered you all up (!)...but it's a very good choice of material. I'm keeping my eyes open for news of "Londinium"....the title intrigues me. What is the connection with Roman Britain?

I have just been to an upcoming release dates site and apparently MLSF has been brought forward to the 14th July instead of the 16th, is this a good or bad thing, will it not get missed being released on a Wednesday instead of the usual Friday. Bethan have you any plans to telephoen Miramax again, they told me to ring in a few weeks' time, I really can't see why we have to wait so long to see it.

Welcome back, Evelyn! Can't wait to see the pictures. I haven't posted in a while... just back from Rhode Island, and am in the midst of job interviews, reading for PhD exams, etc... good to see the boards active despite that the summer is already here (in our hemisphere, anyway). (Bethan)What sort of promotion did AIH get? (Evelyn) Miramax did their usual ..flying journalists from each big city to Hollywood where they got to interview the stars, director etc. We had one in our paper. I didn't want to jinx my chances by saying anything-- but I sent my resume to Miramax in L.A.. They're currently seeking someone to fill an administrative position in their promotions department! Keeping fingers crossed...

(Winter) Evelyn! Can't wait to see the pictures. Hate to disappoint you..."I ain't got none".Lots of clippings though and borchures.BTW Jennifer is featured in the July UK Harpers.I brought home a suitcase full. **** Denise Richards who is scheduled to play Miranda in RV is on the cover of the July Movieline...big interview. She sounds like an airhead. **** You will all be happy to know that I picked up my own copy of the FP screenplay. Am I the only one had a problem hearing some of the dialogue.Paul Ashford really mumbled.The screenplay makes the film a little more civilized!!!

(Evelyn) She sounds like an airhead. She is an airhead. Worst choice for "flavor of the month" actress if there ever was one.

I am in some difficulty, I find I have to write before I can see what has been written recently and of course what I have to say will sometimes appear out of joint. Advice please

AnneH, we have a help board (had forgotten about it until Lidya used it this afternoon). It is #61. Or you can email us at nomdedrool@yahoo.com. Sounds like you need to change your "display preferences" on the main drool page to all/new. This should be your bookmark for that page: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/browse/drool/all/new Or if you bookmark each topic, then it would be like this one: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/119/new With this setting, you will get new messages since the last time you logged in. When you enter a new message, sometimes the one before it will also show up. That's normal. However, you should be seeing all the new messages when you bring up these topics. If this doesn't help, contact us. *********** How exciting Jenn!! Sounds like "An Ideal Match"!! You and Miramax. Good luck. Hope you get it. (Evelyn) Am I the only one had a problem hearing some of the dialogue. Paul Ashford really mumbled. No, I remember asking for many clarifications and so did others. Yes, the screenplay really helps...and it has lots of pictures!! Even more worthwhile. ;-)

Wonderful! A quiet moment with my PC! I have been furtively lurking these past few weeks without a moment to really think straight enough to post anything sensible. 'Colin's smouldering glances hinted at much more than desire -- there was a vulnerability and loneliness there that must have had a lot of women fastasising about how happy they might make him.' Well done Andrew Davis. Finally someone has said something sensible about Darcy Mania. If it was all down to tight trousers and wet shirts, the television watching female would swoon evey time she turned on the set! I have been wondering where Londinium is being filmed? BTW are we to call it "L" now? It must be in London somewhere. I shall keep my eyes peeled. I have also been wondering about Colin's long sojourn in London. He has been here all year (apart from Scotland for a few weeks). Do you think Livia is working? Maybe that is why. I wonder when he gets to see Will? Idle speculation, I know, but can't help wondering. Also, Evelyn, we are seeing TRT next week. I saw it the first time round and was not that impressed with the play. It has obviously been transformed by JE and the great atmosphere of the Donmar.

Sorry!

How do I put this right?

How do I put this right?

You must close the italic tag, which I have just done. Trust me, ladies. It is now done.

OK, we can't rule out a Boorman pic yet. Item in the Hollywood Reporter says that Boorman is collaborating with John Le Carre on the screenplay for "The Tailor of Panama," but: "speaking at the Munich Film Festival, where he was promoting his latest film 'The General,' said 'Tailor' is one of three projects he is developing parallel to his preproduction work on Columbia Pictures' yet-to-be-cast 'The Sea Wolf.'" So The Sea Wolf hasn't been cast yet and he has three other projects in the mix. I've said before that I think Colin would be suited to a spy thriller/espionage type film...a Le Carre or Ludlum. ;-D

(Allison) Evelyn, we are seeing TRT next week. I saw it the first time round and was not that impressed with the play. It has obviously been transformed by JE and the great atmosphere of the Donmar. I shall be eager to hear your review and comments.(Pl. post them on #72. This is Colin's board...and I always feel I am infringing on his turf). Also, Allison, pay attention to the pop songs , lyrics...and black out music. It's all part of the dialogue,though unspoken...(That tricky Stoppard). JE and SD together make this play.

Here, here, I also look forward to hearing your opinion of this production.

(Karen) So The Sea Wolf hasn't been cast yet and he has three other projects in the mix. What do you make of the fact that Boorman also went to see JE at the Donmar? Perhaps he has a part in mind for her as well? (CF and JE costarring in a Boorman production -- in our dreams?) Or maybe it was Dillane he was scouting:-).

Boorman also went to see JE at the Donmar Like you said maybe he went to see SD after all those spectacular reviews. Boorman had two other men with him...but they didn't look like movie moguls. Perhaps Allison will recognize others in the audience. It was definitely a British audience.And lots of people greeted each other.

I have read two reports of the Jongleur night out. My to have been so close to C.F. If only sigh!!!

(winter) I sent my resume to Miramax in L.A.. They're currently seeking someone to fill an administrative position in their promotions department! Welcome home, winter! I'll be keeping my fingers crossed. And wouldn't we droolies be lucky to have our very own deep throat at Miramax. (Of course I mean this in the Watergate fashion!) (Anne) I have read two reports of the Jongleur night out. My to have been so close to C.F It makes great reading, doesn't it? My, these reports will keep my imagination flowing for weeks :-)

Just to be within a few yards, Oh my it is so very real. I could almost feel myself there. I hope against hope to be in the U.K. in Nov. or Jan. I have to see him in the flesh, it somehow seems most important after all these years of 'drooling'

(Anne Hale) I have read two reports of the Jongleur night out. I have read the report on Murph's site. Is there another report posted somewhere else and if so, where? (Anne Hale) I have to see him in the flesh... Know what you mean. Sigh!!

Closing the tag for now. Also, ladies, please remember that when the clock gets reset back to the correct date, you will need to reinitiate all your drool topics that had posts during the Great Leap Forward. Untouched topics will not be affected.

Jacob focus of Wade's indie 'Pornographer' NEW YORK -- Irene Jacob is starring with Martin Donovan in writer-director Alan Wade's indie "The Pornographer: A Love Story." The French actress will then powder up to play a make-up artist in Mike Binder's London-set romantic comedy "Londinium" opposite Binder and Colin Firth. ***************** Irene Jacob and Colin in another film again? So soon? A mere two years!! I've checked this Binder's guys filmography as writer/director/actor. Pretty nothing IMO. But you've got to start somewhere. A makeup artist? Wonder what the story is about. Theater? But the important thing is that it's a "romantic comedy" and Colin appears to have the lead!

(anne hale)I hope against hope to be in the U.K. in Nov. or Jan. I have to see him in the flesh, You are welcomed to join us at the Spring Reunion at the Donmar on January 15, 2000.

London-set romantic comedy "Londinium" opposite Binder and Colin Firth. Move over Hugh or should he say "whoopsie daisies" ;-D

(Karen) Move over Hugh or should he say "whoopsie daisies" ;-D *Chuckle* I saw NH this weekend. Thought it should be renamed '4 Weddings II' since there were so many similarities. I didn't care for JR. Hughie had some great lines, though. The audience loved the movie. The French actress will then powder up to play a make-up artist... Good. I hope the part's substantial enough to offset Mariel. But compared to Denise Richards, MH is Oscarworthy! IMO Denise's main assets lie somewhat south of her brain. Have I got my claws out today or what? Good luck with that job prospect, Winter!

Oops, forgot to add to my last post: (Ann) I have just been to an upcoming release dates site and apparently MLSF has been brought forward to the 14th July instead of the 16th, is this a good or bad thing, will it not get missed being released on a Wednesday instead of the usual Friday Given the onslaught of EWS publicity (if I see that kissing snippet one more time...) I think this was done quite intentionally. Earlier this spring there was another movie which opened on a Wednesday--I remember because it was unusual. It could have been 'The Matrix' which went on to make big $$$.

Good luck, Winter! Crossing fingers and toeses for ya. :-) Karen, Re: the storyline of "Londinium"...according to the Murph blurb, it appears to be a Hollywood actress tring to become a big success in Britain. (Now THAT'S a switch...Hee hee!!)

"Londinium" and Mike Binder. Thanks for this, Karen! Did you check out Mike Binder at IMDB...I was quite impressed. I've seen "American Gothic"...it was screened on BBC2 (which doesn't pick up duds) and I thought it was very good. He seems to be a writer/director and his other movies all attract warm reviews...and they've all been released in the US! I think "Londinium" must be an American production (maybe, after SLOW Colin is wary of "little British movies"). And if you check Mike Binder's last movie, t e star is Mariel Hemingway! It sounds promising, although it may invite comparisons with NH! But compared to Denise Richards, MH is Oscarworthy! Have you heard Catherine Zeta-Jones give an interview? Do men care about brain power? CZ-J ia plastered all over the Britich press...opening of Entrapment and, oh, guess what, she's managed to catch Michael Douglas. Good timing! BTW Denise Richards won't have to act much in RV...it's an airhead role. Am keeping my fingers crossed for MLSF. Can't help but feel that Miramax have dumped it it favour of AIH (which only got so-so reviews over here) Why open the same week as EWS when there are another 51 weeks in the year! Harvey's strategy eludes me...maybe it's very subtle. :-) Winter, we need you in the Promotions department!

Just an idea, if completely OT: what about creating a board which allows to experiment with html, picture- and link posting. More practice in html may also help to remember to close the italics-tags... :-).

Renate, you are a genius! I have an example. In today's Daily Mail (what would we do without it) there is a silly feature on 20 inventions men and women would love to see e.g. 20 minute football matches and armchairs with electric shock option. To illustrate this they have a photograph of ODB in his arsenal shirt, slumped in front of a television! I now have a scanner, but it is quite beyond me as to how I would go about posting it here. I need to practise. So Renate your idea is timely! BTW it is from FP. You will all have seen it, so do not get tooo excited. Also It does not mention either Colin or FP. Does that mean he is so well known in the UK that they do not need to?

We've got a scanner too....and we've only used it once! Great idea, Renate! BTW, Ann, I haven't phoned Miramax again about release dates for MLSF in the UK. I'm planning to do so, but I'll have to be in a very buoyant mood! If they say that they're waiting to see how it does in the US, I shall fling the phone against the wall! They should set a date and start promoting it...Puttnam, Hudson, Foreman (still very articulate!), Scottish Tourist Board (films set in Scotland have boosted the Scottish tourist film industry by �15million), child-friendly movie, which mums can go to see i the school holidays, and oh, of course, Colin Firth (remember him....last seen in a starring role in the UK two and a half years ago!!!!!) On second thoughts, maybe I'd better not phone Miramax! :-)

Renate: what about creating a board which allows to experiment with html, picture- and link posting. My thoughts exactly! I used the help board to practice the other day, but that was really not the place for it. You read my mind!

Did you go back, Lidya, to check? Feel free to use that board. It's idle. Most people when they have problems posting can't post there anyway and should email us. Was going to suggest using the "Nonsense" board (#15) but it does have a classic discussion there. Go check it out. Not to usurp Renate's "wet blanket" ownership... ;-) Allison/Bethan: In order to post images to this board, the picture must already be loaded to Internet, somewhere. It is not the same as emailing someone a picture from PC. A complete url (http://etc...) is used as a link. I encourage you to experiment with your scanners and we can make arrangements to get the pics up here. Also check out Ann's HTML tutorial at austen.com. It will tell you how to post a link to an image.

(Allison)Also It does not mention either Colin or FP. Does that mean he is so well known in the UK that they do not need to? I think so...he is quite a poster boy over there. Everyone has heard of him and JE from P&P which paralized the country!! *** On ET two nights ago they had a blurb on Prince Edward and his new Earl of Wessex title....showed snaps of SIL...ODB..dancing with GP... but not a mention of his name.Grrrrr ****

Londinium, Relative Values and the London IMAX movie all exist, per Stephen Fry. Evelyn has received confirmation directly from Stephen Fry that these projects all exist and that the facts as stated in the newspapers are true. He said that he's only "just on Londinium for a day, playing a sex therapist. Relative Values shoots in the Isle of Man, but they're having difficulty settling dates."

THanks for the news, Karen. (cool graphic, BTW) Evelyn has received confirmation directly from Stephen Fry that these projects all exist and that the facts as stated in the newspapers are true. Directly from Stephen Fry, eh? Has Evelyn been making new friends during her sojourns to London? ;-) Am in despair, friends. FP is ideally supposed to open a week from tomorrow, but I haven't seen a billboard, a trailer, not one sign of its existence.

Karen just called, with the name of the distributors for FP (Phaedra). Immediately rang them up to see what the deal was... "Fever Pitch"'s release has been postponed once again... this time, to September 10, 1999!!!!! Apparently, it's not as easy as simply finding a distributor, and voila! it's at your local cineplex. Phaedra then had to search for venues willing to show the film... Laemmle Theatres, known for showcasing indies, will project FP in Los Angeles.

(Winter) Has Evelyn been making new friends during her sojourns to London? ;-) evelyn met Stephen at the premiere of WILDE in October 1997(Big Charity Event at the Savoy). He has always been v. supportive of JE's website...occasionally even signs our Guest Book.I have corresponded with him several times ...re: WILDEwhen he has won awards. He helped us a lot on WILDE. So, I wrote to him yesterday and asked him to sort out all the newspaper accounts...which we thought were conflicting.(The guy answers his emails faster than most of my friends.)Alas...all the accounts are "splendidly true". ***** I have just spoken to my local Miramax rep. MLSF will **Not**have a national press junket.Individual cities will do local press screenings.Ours is on July 14th.So Colin is spared going through the rigors of a press conference. However, that means that there won't be individual interviews in the papers with the stars ...only reviews of the film. Bethan is right...looks like Miramax has decided to put all it's "eggs" into" An Ideal Husband"...which I saw at the Odeon Haymarket in London and found Borrrring.(Except for JN speech to Parliament, Winter)

(Winter) "Fever Pitch"'s release has been postponed once again... this time, to September 10, 1999!!!!! A birthday present for ODB !!?? I'm glad I bought the video; who knows when or if we will ever see this on the big screen. Too bad, too. I know next to nothing about soccer, but it doesn't matter, since FP, IMO, is a film about relationships and fan-aticism (our enthusiasm for CF might be thought to border on a fever pitch level, as seen by non-Firthaholics), not a film about the sport, an opinion confirmed by my husband and son. If only Phaedra would have the sense to market it that way.

What a tremendous wave of news! Evelyn, my heartiest congrats and admiration for your initiative and contacts. And how nice of Stephen Fry to reply so promptly! I'm really impressed (by both of you!) A mixed bag of news. One, Colin is doing both Londinium and RV. I hope his part in Londinium is a "lead" role and not a cameo, like Stephen Fry. Do I detect some lack of enthusiasm for RV? It has two screenwriters and is an adaptation of the Noel Coward play, so maybe it will be sharper, more cinematic. I actually thought there were some very good one liners dotted throughout. MLSF....it looks as though it's "pay back Rupert" time, and Colin isn't going to get the Big Star promotion by Miramax. I think they've backed the wrong horse, but I'm VERY biased! I hope the film speaks for itself. To be honest, films can sometimes be over-promoted by "star" actors. FP...is September 10th 100% definite and confirmed, never to be changed? :-) If so, that's good news. Just LA, or NY and possible nationwide, RV...the difficuly in setting dates may be other commitments, which could be, in Colin's case (I really hope!) BJD. Inspired by Evelyn and Karen, I will ring Working Title again. Italics....please go away!!

Please what is the London IMAX movie and what has this to do with Colin, have I missed something. re Londinium, from what I have read I get the impression that Colin has the lead role, Ceefax and The Mirror said JD was joining CF & SF and didn't mention anyone else and now we know the SF is only a cameo role so Colin must have the lead role and it also now appears to be a romantic comedy, wonderful. I must say I feel more enthusiatic about this film than RV., but at least its another film to add to my v deo collection eventually and hopefully if it gets a Distributor. I too will phone Miramax Bethan, can't do any harm and might make them realise that there are many Firth fans waiting to see this film after such a long wait. If he does do BJD, and I very much hope that he does, he will have totalled 3 films, 1 TV drama, and 2 stage plays in one year, more than making up for the dearth of Firth last year!!

(Bethan) And if you check Mike Binder's last movie, the star is Mariel Hemingway! Aha! Do men care about brain power? Of course they do!! Just look at the success of Pamela Lee, for example. Why--she even had her implants removed, further proof that men love her for her creative genius and acting talent. I couldn't even finish typing that without gagging ;-P (Evelyn) On ET two nights ago they had a blurb on Prince Edward and his new Earl of Wessex title....showed snaps of SIL...ODB..dancing with GP... but not a mention of his name.Grrrrr They just aired this 'ET' last night here in the NY area. I'm with you in the GRRRR category. Good thing my DH wasn't home, since I was yelling at the TV: "can't you even say his name??" I was quite put out! Gotta love that Evelyn, she goes directly to the source. but they're having difficulty settling [RV filming]dates It appears he won't be doing them simultaneously, which is the aspect I found unusual for ODB. (Bethan) MLSF....it looks as though it's "pay back Rupert" time, and Colin isn't going to get the Big Star promotion by Miramax. I agree. But look how far back "pay back Rupert" has gone: he got more publicity out of SiL than ODB for what was a cameo; IH got the "full-court press" from Miramax at Cannes whereas MLSF was an also-ran. I think they've backed the wrong horse Follow the money. It's sad, but true.

Where have all the italics gone? Like a dog worrying at a bone, I'm going back to MLSF. What exactly will the "promotion" consist of? Does the fact that there's no press junket mean that there will just be no TV interviews, or no interviews at all (magazine, newspaper etc). And what about trailers? Any more in theatres? Any on TV? And what exactly is a "low-keyed" premiere? On AIH...I haven't seen the movie, but I did see the play on stage, and from what I recall the "ideal (or not so ideal) husband" was the JN character,not the RE character, as promoted in the trailer/poster!

(Bethan)Do I detect some lack of enthusiasm for RV? I agree...Don't know what the negative furor is all about. We're not talking "George of the Jungle" here....or (gawdforbid P.!!)This is a v. respectable adaptation of a play...Yeah, it's fluff...like IH.Peter (CF) has some v. good lines and I can see him in this and SF is the perfect Crestwell. I will look forward to this. And if IH husband succeeds, it will be a good omen for a Noel Coward play. **** Ann I can't help you on the London I-MAX film. This happened while I was gone. Karen will explain. In fact Karen was my resource for the SF email.I didn't know what the H*** I was talking about.

Total BUMMER

Total BUMMER about FP!! But can't say I didn't expect it, and NO I wouldn't take that date as etched in stone. Re: Marketing suggestions I traded a couple of emails with the SVP at Phaedra and gave her my NSHO on marketing this film. This is what she told me: "There will be some advertising on Fox Sports because the staff there are huge fans of Hick Hornby [sic] as well as soccer (Fox owns the U.S. rights to all UK soccer) and we feel there may be sufficient fans from the soccer world to whom this film will appeal based on initial research. But our main focus for promotion is as a romantic comedy/drama, for Nick Hornby fans and Colin Firth fans, of which there are quite a few like yourself throughout the entire country that we have heard from thus far." Re: IMAX (for Ann W) The British Film Institute has commissioned a new IMAX film to star Stephen Fry. Its working title is "London." Given that the news on this and Londinium came out at the same time (and film that was shown at the new IMAX theater's opening was "Old Man and the Sea"--Hemingway), I thought that some of the facts had been confused. Per Stephen, these are all separate projects: London and Londinium. (Bethan)Do I detect some lack of enthusiasm for RV? Absolutely!! Peter the nephew is a nothing role and would be better played by Rupert Everett. The best lines go to Crestwell and Felicity (the Julie Andrews role). I have combed through the play and picked out ALL of Peter funnier quips (not many); they are shown at Murph's Relative Values page. The final bit of dialogue between Don Lucas and Peter will be very funny if the audience believes Peter is gay. I still haven't seen the trailer for MLSf and I'm running out of art houses and art house movies to see. Last night I saw the Red Violin. The trailers were for Inspector Gadget, the Bruce Willis paranormal thing and who remembers... argh!! And this was at the top downtown art house. One that will rarely if ever show mainstream movies. No poster there either. About Londinium, have a few more feelers out there for details. Will let you know as soon as...

A friend in NYC just e-mailed me to say she saw the MSLF trailer before a movie yesterday but she didn't tell me which one! Though she's not a Colin fan, she said she recognized him right away. If it's not An Ideal Husband, I'll let you know. London, Londonium, Relative Values....my head is spinning but ain't it grand? T Guess we just have to get used to the fact that Colin does not promote himself and frankly, other than his talent, what can the public relations people do to make him sell? He's so normal, People Magazine can only show him sitting in his in-law's kitchen pouring coffee. Rupert is an extremely handsome man who women love and who happens to be gay. He hobnobs with Madonna, Julia Roberts adores him, the press is all a'dither when he plays a straight role. There's no contest. I dont' know who has the contact with Stephen Fry anymore, but thank you.

So it seems Londinium is a goer with Irene Jacob too interesting.

Sorry ladies did not mean to send above. I meant to cross it out. Thank you for the invite re Jan.15th - it might be best then if I travel in Jan rather than Nov.

He hobnobs with Madonna, Julia Roberts adores him Doesn't Gwynnie count? She mentioned him more than anyone else (which was never)!!

(Bethan)On AIH...I haven't seen the movie, but I did see the play on stage, and from what I recall the "ideal (or not so ideal) husband" was the JN character,not the RE character, as promoted in the trailer/poster! Bingo. It IS JN's character who is "the Ideal Husband." There are only a handful of theatres which have posters of JN, not RE. So disapointing. You'd think promotions would be honest enough to sell the story correctly, and not resort to relying on the "hunk of the month" (no offense to Rupert, I love him as much as the next gal) to sell tickets. I was offended about the commercials for 'Emma' a while back, too. There's a scene in which Emma declares, "I hate John!... I love John!" and then cuts to pictures of Jeremy Northam. His character was NOT "John", but rather John's brother! ...If I were in Promotions, I'd do a much better job! ;-) (still haven't heard-- Human Resources director is out of town till mid-month) :-(

I heard there were two posters--one with JN and one with RE, but the one that's shown everywhere is Rupe's. Actually you can make a case for either being the "Ideal Hubby." The devil-may-care, commitmentphobic Arthur comes through...true and blue for everyone. ;-)

Other than his talent what can the promotions people do to make him sell. He's so normal A few huge smiling photos (as in the "Taste" magazine) gazing from front covers or inside front covers) wouldn't go amiss! Or a full-length photo in jeans and an open-necked white shirt! Miramax were quite happy to show him as the "grumpy, charmless" Wessex dumped by GP in favour of the "gorgeous" JF! Now, when there's an opportunity for a charm offensive, he doesn't get it! The lack of trailers in the theatres really, really, p***** me off though.....it's such an obvious way to promote to the niche market. Those reviews had better be good! He's so normal Major problem here.....He's happily married, a good father, no "kiss-and-tell" stories from former relationships, has an inexpensive lifestyle, promotes good causes away from the glare of the press, doesn't hang out with the "stars", never gives interviews to "Hello" mgazine, didn't sell his wedding photos, doesn't advertise jeans/aftershave etc, has never "done" drugs, is not a reformed alcoholic, doesn't visit a shrink, and, hey, he even gets on well with his parents and his mother in-law likes him.......BORING, BORING!! Oh well, MLSF is opening nationwide, and all reports are very positive. For that, I'm thankful. And despite the shifting dates, at least FP will (eventually) open and, presumably be available on video. FP did well in video rentals over here. I'll be interested to see how MLSF is promoted in the UK. We basically promote over here by press interviews and creating a good buzz ("the eagerly awaited...") There was no promotion for AIH, except the RE posters in the papers, and I caught a glimpse of a trailer on SKY. RV...I share your reservations. but it's another movie, and one that we will see. The movie will look good, he'll look good, and overall, could be funny, with an updated script. I thought it was a "let's take Will on location in the summer holidays" film!! ARGH!! Must get back to work....but (apart from CF) this whole marketing area really fascinates me! (Winter, you must get that job!!) You can see why bad "products" succeed, good products fail.

No FP until September?? Argggghhh!!! It was supposed to open next week and I was so looking forward to it. Thanks for calling winter, and getting the scoop. I was starting to worry since I hadn't seen any publicity for FP. So it's going to be at the Laemmle, eh? It will probably be at the 5 Plex near your place. Hmmm, I smell a mini-Firth fest coming on. Evelyn, thanks for checking with Stephen Fry about Londinium and RV. Wow, you're on an email basis with him, you glamour girl you!

Hmmm, "working" from home is not a good idea! I've a few more thoughts...and then I'm really going to start concentrating. RV...I think I've been a bit in denial... "Peter is not gay, Peter is not gay...". For the character to work, he has to be played as the professional bachelor/escort type, ironical, slightly detached from involvement with women. Not overtly gay, but maybe with a lingering question mark. Could be an interesting "character" part. I've no problem with this, provided he plays the occasional romantic hero! But having said this, there's a limit even to romantic hero roles. I agree with Karen that a lead role in an intelligent thriller (the upcoming Le Carre/Boorman, for example) would be excellent. BTW I think that John Boorman probably just likes the theatre and is a Donmar regular, and probably isn't casting for roles. He'd probably look at examples of screen work (not theatre).anyway. But the Le Carre project sounds good ("The Sea Wolf" I wouldn't enthuse over!) How can you tell I've got a report which I don't want to write!! :-) Final thought, if only Colin were more like Stephen Fry......"Hi, Colin, well, what's your latest project?" "Hello Bethan, full details are...." :-) In my dreams. Mind you, it could be rather boring...we'd be spared all the pleasure of endless conjecture! :-)

Hmmm, "working" from home is not a good idea! You said it! My productivity would increase 100% if it weren't for a certain gentleman ;-) I'll be interested to see how MLSF is promoted in the UK. Or IF! I was reading the other day that "The Theory of Flight" with Kenneth B and Helena B-C had not been distributed in the UK after its "flop" in the US. Was it badly received there or was it another case of the distributer not promoting it?

(Bethan) Or a full-length photo in jeans and an open-necked white shirt! You've missed your calling, Bethan! Yes, he's normal and now he's making a name being political for social causes. Good actors do receive publicity when they've made new films but it is usually because they know they must get behind the promotional effort to sell the film. Colin did that for SiL. He was on the junket, he went to all the premieres and parties, he appeared on Breakfast with the Arts, he agreed to a photo shoot in Italy... What more can he do? Right now would be a perfect time for the talk shows to bring him in. They could advertise they had the Earl of Wessex! Granted the discussion of the SiL/Edward title thing would take about 45 seconds, but then he could talk about his upcoming roles, his causes, etc., like any other guest. This has Rosie written all over it!! RV...with an updated script. Definitely needs that. For some reason, even when I visualize this as a period piece, it doesn't work. I thought it was a "let's take Will on location in the summer holidays" film!! Shouldn't the kid be going to camp by now? Not overtly gay, but maybe with a lingering question mark. Yes, for '50s, that's all he could show. Your characterization is exactly how I saw it. What male character who is anywhere between 35-50 (confirmed bachelor); who has expertise in women's hair, makeup and clothing; would be sent to take Moxie to tea because she's upset could be anything else? He is treated as a *girlfriend* to Felicity. I don't particularly like this role. But maybe Colin will have an entirely different take on it. (If this were an American movie, I'd cast Harvey Fierstein in it!!) ;-) "The Sea Wolf" I wouldn't enthuse over! Just watched another version of this starring Stacey Keach. Ick, double ick. Still looking around for the older version of this to rent. The story is interesting but this version was hideous. Agree that Boorman must like theater. However, that doesn't mean he can't get casting ideas from it. They have to see the actors somewhere. (Allison) Was it badly received there or was it another case of the distributer not promoting it? It was promoted by both HB-C and KB. They appeared on all the shows. It flopped because its subject matter wasn't going to be drawing them in by the thousands. I don't even recall the reviews. But it didn't even tempt me. Sounded ridiculous.

Taking another break! Following Evelyn and Karen's example, I've just rung Working Title again to ask about BJD. I asked when they were going to start shooting and gotbthe reply (yet again!) that it was still "in development". I then said that I d see a few reports that filming was starting in the summer. Reply "Ring back in a month...we'll have a pre-production office set up". Me "But will it start shooting this summer". Reply "it will be late summer, if it is this summer". I didn't ask about casting ...I know I'm not going to get anything. So there'll be a pre-production office in a month. How soon before shooting starts is this normally set up? All this uncertainty about dates makes me wonder how on earth Colin manages to plan ahead. He may have assumed that there would be a summer shoot, and of course he's committed to 3DOR from November. But if BJD doesn't shoot late summer, I should think it will be postponed to early spring. I'm beginning to feel that they should really get their act together on this one. Right now would be a perfect time for the talk shows to bring him in. Agreed. He co-operated 100% on SIL's promotion and now it should be his chance to promote himself. As you say, Wessex is topical, and he's got two movies opening. If HB-C and KB can do all the talk shows, couldn't Colin do one at least. I really thought Miramax would push him. Has he trodden on Harvey's toes? I also agree with you about the subject matter of Theory of Flight...very downbeat. BTW Allison, it's a BBC film, so even if it's not released in theatres, it doesn't really matter will always get a TV showing. I'm almost positive that we will (eventually!) see MLSF. Final thoughts on RV...if the overall screenplay is good (and updated), should be okay. But I really hope it's justsomething to pay the mortgage and allow him to spend more time with his family. Could do better!

Two of Colin's costars in Londinium. That's Mike Binder with Mariel Hemingway.

(Karen) If this were an American movie, I'd cast Harvey Fierstein in it!!) ;-) *NNNOOOOOOOooooooooooo* I was just thinking how good ODB could be in a comical gay role until I read your comment. IhopeIhopeIhope the script is updated in a different direction. There's gay and then there's GAY, if you know what I mean...not that there's anything wrong with that ;-) (Heide) If it's not An Ideal Husband, I'll let you know. I read awhile ago (don't remember where) that trailers are usually from the same (or affiliated) studio as the movie being shown. Isn't IH the only Miramax production out right now? Haven't seen a single TV ad yet, Bethan. Miramax didn't begin to advertise SiL on TV until a few days before it opened. If there is no star-backed publicity, without red-hot raving reviews from the critics I fear MLSF will disappear into the night. There are simply too many other movies around. It won't sell itself, even with the Hugh Hudson/David Puttnam connection. (Karen) I don't even recall the reviews [for 'Theory of Flight'] I read a few and they were scathing. Then *poof* the movie was gone.

Marcia, I agree with you that even if we do a separate topic for MLSF, I'll read it anyway. Do we have support for a separate topic? Not being a soccer fan, I don't understand the connection of Fever Pitch with Fox Sports. Does the US soccer season start in September, Karen, hence the new release date (hah! in my dreams) for FP? Lynda, you got the plot of FP in one try! It's not a football movie though you'll get some arguments from others that it is. Perhaps another time we'll redo Fever Pitch. Winter, wish you so much luck with your prospective job. Besides working in a tres glamorous industry (and Miramax to boot!), I'm sure the paycheck will be nice too. He was on the junket, he went to all the premieres and parties, he appeared on Breakfast with the Arts, he agreed to a photo shoot in Italy... What more can he do? Sell himself...be a party animal...samba with Salma Hayek... even when he doesn't have a film to promote. And we all know that's not what he'll do (nor what we want him to do). Though photos of him in open necked shirts would be very welcome indeed. Someday BJD will come though I think my prince on a white steed will come first.

Tell me does Mike Binder ACT? Is he going to be in this film himself? I am a bit confused. Shouldn't the kid be going to camp by now? British kids don't go to camp! Colin will no doubt want him to spend some of the Summer imbibing his (half) native culture i.e. holidaying on a windswept beach and shivering in the cold sea:-)

Yes, Heide, I think you should do a separate topic for MLSF. That way those who don't want to read won't. Otherwise we'll be typing the "spoilers" warning over and over here at 119. (Heide) Not being a soccer fan, I don't understand the connection of Fever Pitch with Fox Sports I don't know about soccer, but US football starts in September so Fox viewership will be up :-) But the audience?? I would suspect they'd be mostly men unless they're like me, a football fan *and* a Firthfan. ?? the strategy of marketing this movie to a predominantly male audience. And we all know that's not what he'll do (nor what we want him to do). True, true. Then he wouldn't be my DB anymore. Though photos of him in open necked shirts would be very welcome indeed. Even more true!

I vote for a separate MLSF topic. evelyn **** And IMHO I like RV just the way it is...Noel Coward doesn' need re-writing. And moreover I think Colin will be a fine Peter; he's never let us down yet. I don't see Peter as gay. Also..the reason he can do the Donmar in Nov- Jan.for a miniscule salary is because he'll have two films $$$$ under his belt. Aren't we lucky? Just thought I'd put my two cents in today early....

Evidently Miramax must be totally unaware of the great reception MLSF received at Newport, or else they'd be falling all over themselves to push this film. It will really be a shame if they let it die on the vine here and then use that as an excuse not to promote it in the UK. Much as I loved having the premiere in Newport (allowing me to attend), I think MLSF should have placed it in a more prestigious US film festival. As it is, the festival rep who intro'd the film made it clear that it was she who pursued Miramax. Also, as was pointed out, this film was a *natural* for the Edinburgh Film Festival -- someone at Miramax must be asleep at the switch. I never did hear how the audience at Cannes reacted to MLSF. Did they like it -- anyone know? Not to be a gloomy Gus, but I also feel MLSF would do better with a fall release date. It's not a heavy film, but it's definitely not something the folks who get shut out of "Big Daddy" or "South Park" will be flocking to see.

(Eileen) IhopeIhopeIhope the script is updated in a different direction. All that hair and makeup stuff and being treated like one of the girls put me in mind of Mrs. Doubtfire when they're turning Robin Williams into a she. Just a weird flash through my mind. Not that the character should be played overtly gay... ;-) Isn't IH the only Miramax production out right now? But Miramax is also Disney, so that means Touchstone, Buena Vista, etc.... Hey, I saw an Inspector Gadget trailer before The Red Violin!! I think the theater chain makes the decision on what to show because they show films from all the distributors on their screens. (Heide) I don't understand the connection of Fever Pitch with Fox Sports. Does the US soccer season start in September, Karen, hence the new release date (hah! in my dreams) for FP? I don't know why September was chosen. Winter spoke to Phaedra. However, Fox Sports shows English League Soccer on a tape delayed basis or real time on pay TV. It's on Sunday nights, I think, during the season (which we all know is August to May) and then repeated again during the week. Sell himself...be a party animal...samba with Salma Hayek... even when he doesn't have a film to promote. Yeah, and maybe he'll even pull out the old guitar and get the old crowd going with some old folk song. "If I had a hammer, I'd hammer in the mooooorning..." (Allison) Tell me does Mike Binder ACT? Is he going to be in this film himself? Yes, and he writes and directs. My guess (and it is only a guess) is that he will direct this one and have a smaller role. It does take place in England, so it would make sense that Colin would have a larger role. If this is like Notting Hill, Binder might have the Alec Baldwin role or slightly more. British kids don't go to camp! But many American kids do, especially those from affluent families. Although Will might be too young for anything more than one term of day camp. (Susan) I never did hear how the audience at Cannes reacted to MLSF. Did they like it -- anyone know? Never saw anything about it. BTW, the AmFAR site finally posted pictures from the Cannes benefit. Don't even bother. There are two collages (three pics each) with people you don't want to see! Salma, Liz, other supermodels, Bennie Boy. In other words, the usual suspects. Guess my email to the webmaster didn't mean a thing or he didn't know who Colin was in order to sort through the shots. Will give it another shot on my part.

I'm just resigned to the fact that Miramax won't court publicity for a two year old film lest the critics start questioning why it took so long to hit the screen. Perhaps they'll start the publicity machine if the reviews are good. (Susan) Not to be a gloomy Gus, but I also feel MLSF would do better with a fall release date. Oh dear, Susan, not that I don't agree with you but I'm just grateful it's going to be out in just another two weeks. It's been a long road. Good idea at Topic 61. Lidya, have you had success yet?

Too much honour. Got the idea for a html-practice board from the Republic of Pemberley. They created such a board already 2 years ago, and I found it extremely useful for learning. ---------- Karen, I don't claim exclusivity (voc?) for the "Wet Blanket" title. :-) ---------- To promote FP perhaps they should rename it "Sleepless in Highbury" (if that's how that part of London is called. Or is it Islington? Hackney?) ;-). I think it is MUCH more a romantic comedy than a soccer movie. --------- Why not discuss MLSF on the SIL board? ---------- I think I posted it before, MLSF will come to Germany, Scotiafilms has it on their (rather modest) page, even moved it recently from "sneak preview" to "preview". No dates yet. My guess is that if it will come to Germany it will also reach the UK, whatever the success or lack thereof will be in the US. Try this, go to "preview", (and don't get exited about "-play-" :-].) http://www.scotiafilm.de/

Thanks for the photo, Karen. I like it....raises my hopes for Londinium. And maybe if Mariel is working with a director she's worked with before, and a friendly cast, and it's a comic part, maybe she'll be fine! I'd like to know the plot. So far we've got an aspiring (failed?) actress, a sex therapist, a writer who doesn't get on with people, and a make-up artist! The reason he can do the Donmar in Nov- Jan.for a miniscule salary is because he'll have two films $$$$ under his belt. Aren't we lucky? Ah, the power of positive thinking, Evelyn! Now if he wasn't doing anything, we'd really have something to moan about! And, blowing in the wind somewhat, I actually liked RV when I first read it, although I'd edit out some parts, and it has to be opened up (more cinematic). And I would almost be certain that both RV and Londinium are American backed and guaranteed a US distribution. The last two films that Mike Binder wrote and directed were made by a company called Outlaw Productions, and Buena Vista distributed. I wonder if it's the same set up for Londinium?

Yeah!! I saw the MLSF trailer on TV today and have taped it. Much better on a 30" set versus 2" by 2" on the computer. The E! channel's "Coming Attractions" show had MLSF in its weekend program. It will be repeated and repeated. That is how E! operates. So look for Coming Attractions. The show starts with the new CZ-J The Haunting and continues with a bunch of teen garbage and concludes with MLSF in the last 5 minutes or so. (Renate) To promote FP perhaps they should rename it "Sleepless in Highbury" Or what about "The English Teacher Who Shagged Me"? ;-D

(Karen) The E! channel's "Coming Attractions" show had MLSF in its weekend program. Is the E! channel a separate station or part of another channel? It seems I ran across this during the Academy Awards, but can't remember where; would be terrific not to wait 40 minutes to download a 2-minute clip.

(Karen)The E! channel's "Coming Attractions" show had MLSF in its weekend program Hurray for E! Thank you for having such a great eye, Karen. What would we do without you? (Heide)Lidya, have you had success yet? Success with what I was trying to post? It seems the URL has changed, I think Geocities has merged with some other site (can't remember which). Thank you for accomodating the less proficient! ;~D

Italics, go away!

(Bethan) The last two films that Mike Binder wrote and directed were made by a company called Outlaw Productions, and Buena Vista distributed. BV is Disney...sister company of Miramax. **** I just re-read RV this afternoon....I'm afraid I gonna backpedal a little bit...Peter does seem a little effeminate. Of course, I was looking for signs of being gay.... Colin might not play it that way at all. Alas...it seems that the days of romantic "rumpy-pumpies" are over!!

Not only is he all the things Bethan said but in everything I have ever read about him he is one of the nicest people you would ever meet. (As some of you can attest.) GP kept going on about how nice he was during the shooting of SIL It sounded to me like she would like to work with him again. How many are going to the next 3DOR? #@!*^#+ We live out in the country and our cable company doesn't start E channel until August 1. I was surprised lat night to see that Kenneth Brannah is in Wild Wild West.

Sorry about mispelling Branagh.

I don't watch E much, but that is about to change. Got tape in slot and ready for action. Thanks, Karen

Don't you think it would be misleading to have My Life So Far discussed on the Shakespeare in Love Spoiler topic? I'd rather start a new topic if that's the consensus. Well I know we all don't really care if Colin's character in RV is gay or not. Most of us just want to see him play a strong romantic lead for a pleasant change and this role probably isn't going in that direction. Plus I have concerns that Noel Coward doesn't translate well to modern audiences. But hey, I thought the premise of Shakespeare in Love looked absurd so RV will probably end up with a Best Pictur Oscar. ;-) Rumpie pumpies, Evelyn? I'm afraid to ask.

(Lidya) Thank you for having such a great eye, Karen. On this, I cannot take credit. I was tipped off earlier in the day. Can't abide watching E! without cause. Its "Fashion Emergency" show depresses me. ;-) (Heide) Rumpie pumpies, Evelyn? I'm afraid to ask. Something tells me they're not shoes... I think MLSF needs a separate topic. Its opening is going to be staggered across the country (and hopefully it will make it) and then outside the US. What's another topic? Gotta put Heide back to work. Anybody want any others?

and Renate, the collage for MLSF at that website is charming. Thanks.

(Heide) Rumpie pumpies, Evelyn? I'm afraid to ask. (Karen)Something tells me they're not shoes... Was this not Firth's own term for the f..f..frolicking without those shoes on?! Heide, sure, go ahead and make more topics. We already irk the folks down below with our eagerness and productivity. Perhaps if they'd get their rocking chairs off the porch and get to thinking it might be worth while to visit them. I know they'd like us to join them in their conferences. Actually, some are quite entertaining and others are irresistable. And, since they lurk, I'll let them guess who is who ;)

From an article in The Times about Max Beesley (Tom Jones). He is in a new movie called "The Match" about football. (bet we won't get to see that one either she mumbles) "Beesley soon experienced what is commonly known as the Colin Firth effect. He went from handsome bloke in nice tight white pants to national sex symbol, almost overnight. He was a tabloid editor's dream, a more photogenic Ewan McGregor. His love life was scattered all over the front pages, but all the while Beesley remained an extremely focused, non-smoking Buddhist who took in a few dance classes at Pineapple studios during the week. Ask him how this sudden brush with fame didn't turn him into a cocaine snorting brat and he really ponders the question." If you want to read the rest, go here (under Metro - Film): http://www.the-times.co.uk/news/pages/Times/frontpage.html?999

Thank you M'dear. Why did they link his sudden fame with CF in one sentence and then link him to a cocaine-snorting brat in the next? I think that is patently unfair. But, as you suggest, I shall go read the entire story.

I just re-read RV this afternoon....I'm afraid I gonna backpedal a little bit...Peter does seem a little effeminate. Of course, I was looking for signs of being gay.... Colin might not play it that way at all. Alas...it seems that the days of romantic "rumpy-pumpies" are over!! Could be played in several ways. Perhaps more commitment-phobic! I think Peter is a typical upper class "type" from the early fifties. It's just after the Second World War. He would have come out of the Services, found that he had to work to earn a living (no more living on unearned income), be wary of marriage and involvement, opting for a quizzical onlooker's role. But he's certainly not one of the lads! I have a feeling that, ironically, we would have seen him in a romantic plus role in SLOW (didn't Caroline Goodall describe it as a "sexy" film!) But the fates have decreed otherwise! There's a great new P&P site at http://www.pinehurst.net/~mshupeck/ I was particularly interested in the Guest Book - it seems that even after three years people are still discovering P&P!

For those with picture files, but no knowledge about uploading them I recommend to register at Visto (free), they guide you through the procedure: http://service.bfast.com/bfast/click/mid1291956?siteid=5325183&bfpage=home They offer an option to store files online to share with friends, f.e. post them here. Very useful, and helps Spring with a small contribution.

Sorry to use this board so off-topic: Marcia, Karen, Heide, Terry, wer, whoever is involved in the Visto-thing: I have copied the above link from the one you deposited so secretly on http://www.firth.com/ , so I assume they will realise that anybody coming in through the above one is from Spring???!!

The glamorous Firth - dashing Darcy article from the Sunday Times made it into the Toronto Star this morning under the headline "Why prince took movie cad's title - Edward came up with a royal brainstorm after watching villainous Wessex". (I still don't get why Wessex is villainous; Shakespeare is the serial adulterer here.) Also in the same Arts section is an article about Noel Coward which is a little heartening re: Colin's participation in RV. It doesn't mention him or RV, as it is related to the Shaw Festival's upcoming production of Easy Virtue, but does make some interesting observations. Talks about Coward as being "undervalued" because he is seen, wrongly, as a "dilettante" and that "proper recognition - in addition to that paid by the Shaw Festival [ which consistently stages Coward plays, I might add ] - is probabl long overdue" (ditto for CF). Goes on to say, " The best of Coward's plays operate on several levels, (Shaw's artistic director Christopher) Newton argues. "'The people have a natural wit, like Oscar Wilde's people. But underneath that is a whole range of very complex emotions - responses to what is happening. But the verbal level is not necessarily showing you what is going on emotionally (let us hope RV's director agrees). Newton also says that Coward's line are not quotable or funny out of con ext; perhaps, as Colin says of playing Darcy, the physical dimension is essential to do Coward justice.

I've closed the tag. Thank you, Marcia, for the rumpy pumpy translation. Makes perfect sense now. Am thinking about a few choice scenes from The Advocate now... (Bethan) Could be played in several ways...He would have come out of the Services, found that he had to work to earn a living (no more living on unearned income), be wary of marriage and involvement, opting for a quizzical onlooker's role. But he's certainly not one of the lads! Yeah and maybe while he was away during the war, his fiancee ran off with a member of the resistance France. (We could really make this character interesting!!) OK, Bethan, I shall try to keep an open mind on this one. ;-D Let's hope, keep our fingers crossed, that Londinium is that lead in a romantic comedy that we've wanted...to take the place of SLOW. Renate's suggestion about using Vista for your images sounds like a great solution for both Allison and Bethan and their new scanners. Especially if it helps Spring out financially. Think I'll go check it out to see what this service has to offer. Have some ranting and raving to do about Entrapment. Will take it over to 72.

(Lucie)How many are going to the next 3DOR? Keep tuned to Springfolks list. ( Heide) Rumpie pumpies, Evelyn? I'm afraid to ask. I didn't make that up...that's a London Times term (Heide)But hey, I thought the premise of Shakespeare in Love looked absurd so RV will probably end up with a Best Pictur Oscar. ;-) We have a poor track record for predicting....remember when ATA came out...hey with a Pulitizer book and that cast...there was Oscar talk all over the place. Then with SIL we went soon aft it opened for fear that it would go off in a week...that film is still playing at First Run theatres....America refuses to let that film go!!Should be out in video soon.Then we can discuss it on #98 since some of us have the screenplay. Let's leave the SIL topic as it is now...and delete it later. I'm in favor of a separate MLSF topic. ***** Thank you Heide...and Karen....you girls do a lot for us. We don't tell you often enough how much we appreciate you , Terry,& the Spring team, Murph and the team at colinfirth.com. These are the only Colin websites I go to.

Sorry for the tag problem but on my screen everything looks fine, so I didn't realize that anything was amiss, untill Karen e-mailed me.

No need to apologize. We've all done it. And as most of the older members of this group can tell you, I've done far worse!! ;-D

(Evelyn)...days of romantic rumpie-pumpies are over... I think ODB's response to that would not be "Alas!" but rather,.."Oh, I HOPE so!"

Yeah and maybe while he (Peter) was away during the war, his fiancee ran off with a member of the resistance France. (We could really make this character interesting!!) OK, Bethan, I shall try to keep an open mind on this one. ;-D (Karen) LOL! Now bear with me, I've got another theory. Peter is described as Felicity's nephew, but as he is the Honourable Peter Ingleton, he must be the Earl of Marshwood's nephew (ie Felicity is his aunt only by marriage, not blood, and is of course now an unattached rich widow)). Felicity is describes as well-preserved fifty-ish, Peter as anywhere between 35 to 50. When I read RV, the relationship between Felicity and Peter struck me as almost flirtatious. They banter a lot,and smile at each other, he never alls her "aunt", always "Felicity", he kisses her affectionately, she hits him at one point, and at another looks at him "joyfully" (You see, I've really studied the text!!) If you forget the "nephew" angle, they very much seem to have something going between them and spend an awful lot of time together!. Forget for a moment it's Colin and JA, and just read it as the characters are described by Noel Coward! You see, it could be a romantic role!

Re: RV Peter ..gay??? Peter & Felicity??(Bethan) You see, it could be a romantic role! Felicity has some interesting dialogue directed at Peter...Fixing up Moxie with new make-up and hair-do..."You'll have to listen to him...he's quite good at that sort of thing"... Like I said: we have to see how he plays the role....

Thank you Karen

Re Evelyn's remarks of gratitude to those keeping our Drool flowing smoothly, I would like to add my thanks to wer (who lurks a lot) and most especially Terry, whose website this really is! Can you imagine opening a little website and having it turn into something this remarkable and vital to our individual survival as this is?! There are ladies who should also take a bow. Thanks one and all! This is also the only place I come, and I have met the most reamrkable and intelligent people anywhere in the w rld here. Thank you, also!

From the Times Diary today: Lord Puttnam is about to bid farewell to films. The producer of Chariots of Fire and The Killing Fields, who now spends most of his time chairing education task forces and acting as "godparent" to the Millenium Dome's Learning Zone, says that his latest film, MLSF, will be his last. "That's it, no more. I've tried to keep producing but I can't," the admirable Puttnam told me at a lunch to toast "star" teachers. It ends a jazzy career that climaxed in a forlorn spell trying to bring the British way to Hollywood as head of Columbis Pictures. "It is like having several plates spinning in the air at the same time," he concludes. "But my two lives are totally incompatable and they keep crashing to the floor." ****** I hope he is not referring to MLSF with his plate crashing analogy!!!

You beat me to it Allison! But it's good to see a reference to "his latest" film...maybe a release date is imminent. I've been reviewing websites (job related) and found two good sites. One, http://www.elibrary.com searches for magazine/newspaper articles (payment for access) and had a good list of CF articles. The other was a book ordering service which had a very recent interview with Helen Fielding http://www.powells.com/authors/fielding.html It's a much more genuine interview....she actually makes fun of herself and the sort of soundbites she has to give. On the sequel to BJD, she says it's more complicated than the original and that friends have read it and liked it. On the screenplay to BJD she says writing dialogue can be difficult (easier to write in novel form) and that they worry in case some things that work in the book (eg the over-the-top mother and her fling with Julio) would seem too sit-com-ish. Well worth reading. I know this should be at #80, but don't know if anyone is checking there.

Thank you Bethan for the two great websites. The Electronic Library is a winner. Anybody find an article on CF we haven't read? They have 30 on JE..will check to see if we have em all. (Bethan)Re; the Interview with HF... I know this should be at #80, but don't know if anyone is checking there. Probably should be on #80.... some BJ fans don't come here...their loss :-)

Did anyone else see on the sports report that Darcy tied for 4th with a -8 in the Irish open golf tourney.

Good Grief, no! Did you get a snappy of him to post? HOw was he dressed? How did he look? I am all eagerness!!!

Yes fascinating!!!!!

Just a question........MLSF opens next week, right? And gets a 50 city opening. I was surprised that there are no appearances on talk shows (Doesn't everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, do them) But are there no interviews with Colin anywhere? No mentions in movie mags? It seems so low-key, compared with the Rupert Everett experience! There was an article in one of our papers about the importance of the "recognition factor" and how personal promotion(not talent) boosts careers...quoted the example of "superstar" Catherine Z-J.(BTW Entrapment got poor reviews here, but do reviews really matter?) Colin's "recognition factor" in the all-important US market is probably not very high, and MLSF seemed the ideal opportunity. Lead role, Miramax backed. As I said, I'm puzzled!

Arn't we all, Bethan. Will phone Miramax today and say how much we in the Uk are looking forward to seeing MLSF. BTW does anyone know if Colin is to attend the Premiere in NY, which I believe is on Monday.

MLSF opens next week in ONLY NY and LA. It then opens in the next group of about 20 (??) cities on the 23rd and then nationwide on the 30th. Normally you see the stars on the late night talk shows right before the premiere (they stop off and make a brief appearance as these shows are taped). With a small film like this, you never know. If it gets great reviews or becomes a box-office hit, then the stars would be called in after to explain the phenomenon. That's what happened with Rupert Everett. He WASN'T one of the promotional contingent for MBFW. Julia Roberts, Cameron Diaz and the other guy went on all the shows. Rupert showed up a we k or so later when it was apparent that he was surprise hit of the movie. For this movie, we will have to study the fine print in our TV listings and check out the more esoteric shows like Charlie Rose. :-(

MLSF opens next week in ONLY NY and LA. ] Not true, it's opening here in Boston on the 16th of July. (Just one cinema, however.)

My Miramax rep told me this film had a small promo budget. He did not know who CF is....I know that's hard for us to believe...but there it is. I walked him through Colin's roles in TEP and SIL.In the US I would say his "recognition factor" is minimal.

(Karen) Yeah!! I saw the MLSF trailer on TV today and have taped it. How'd you manage that, Karen (aka lightning fingers)? Which channel was it on--mainstream or cable? I haven't seen any yet. I have seen three movies since last week (gotta do something when local power is out due to heat wave); watched no less than 20 trailers and *tsk* no MLSF. (Bethan) You see, it could be a romantic role Ugh! Incest! There's no predicting how close RV the movie will parallel RV the play, but from what you've all posted so far, Peter sounds gay to me. If it looks like a duck and walks like a duck....

Re lack of recognition. We know him well but he looks so different in every part he plays. I liked everything he did from 1984 onwards and yet did not know his name until P. and P. that my dears I think is the significance. Its what he wants to as we know very well. To be able to go the local, to go to a restuarant and to shop without having hordes following him. That we must accept. But it will soon be on video and we can enjoy him to our hearts content.

He (Miramax) did not know who CF is....I know that's hard for us to believe...but there it is. I walked him through Colin's roles in TEP and SIL.In the US I would say his "recognition factor" is minimal. (Evelyn) watched no less than 20 trailers and *tsk* no MLSF. Oh well, I rest my case! I presume the Miramax rep would have seen SIL. Can't understand why they're not showing trailers with AIH....it seems such an obvious link! Rapidly losing faith with Miramax....shall start offering prayers for outstanding reviews! :-) I guess the "recognition factor" is more important within the industry (than outside recognition by the public)....it meams bankability and offers of decent roles.

Thanks, Bethan for the elibrary link. There were a couple of articles I had not read before and several favourable reviews for Fever Pitch. I am most disappointed to learn that Fever Pitch ran in two Toronto theatres last summer (in my pre-Colin days) so there is no chance of it being released again there this year. Rats! IMO, great reviews won't help MLSF. Promotion is everything and this film is getting none. People can't see a film they don't know exists; most people I know rely on television advertising and movie trailers to lure them to movies. For those of you who can access it, Camille is being aired on Canada's Bravo! cable channel on Thursday (tomorrow) at 2:00 p.m.

I didn't do anything with the italics, honest, and don't know how to fix it.

(Eileen) Which channel was it on--mainstream or cable? I haven't seen any yet. The MLSF trailer was on E!'s Coming Attractions show. That's cable (home to Howard Stern and Joan and Melissa Rivers' celebrity fashion critiques, a small sampling of its quality lineup). I'm not sure this particular show is still being run (although they may have it for an entire week?), but it starts with The Haunting (CZJ) and ends with MLSF. Good luck! I have seen three movies since last week...watched no less than 20 trailers and *tsk* no MLSF. If I see the trailer for Bowfinger or American Pie one more time, I might... (AnneH) But it will soon be on video and we can enjoy him to our hearts content. Do you mean SiL? If so, it's a little more complicated than that here in the US. When SiL is released on video in August (10th?), it will be priced to rent, i.e., near $100. The DVD however will be in the $20-$25 range. But...I've read that this DVD is a "no-frills" version and that a "Collector's Edition" will be available for Christmas. What to do, what to do??? (Bethan) Rapidly losing faith with Miramax....shall start offering prayers for outstanding reviews! :-) Can't understand this low profile either. The reports from everyone who saw MLSF at Newport were very favorable. OK, most were a little predisposed to like it, but if it had been bad, I'm sure we would have been told that. Where is the infamous Miramax marketing muscle when you need it? The adult public is ravenous for quality entertainment this summer. Actually, Miramax should have positioned MLSF against American Pie--total opposites in execution. I guess the "recognition factor" is more important within the industry (than outside recognition by the public)....it meams bankability and offers of decent roles. Seems to me they would be related? Anyway, I didn't see Colin's name on that Tatler list of most popular party people. Sheesh! ;-D

Now don't get paranoid, Lynda! The italics are fixed. :-) Wish we got Canadian Bravo. Be nice to see a decent copy of Camille. The one that was sold is a really bad print. Color is washed out. Let us know how this one looks on TV.

No more italics.

I surely hope so!

I surely hope so!

I surely hope so!

Karen, *your* copy of Camille is in color? Mine is in glorious Black and White! I had no idea...and, sorry for that triple posting.

(Bethan).... .shall start offering prayers for outstanding reviews! :-) A worth-while project.... No publicity and bad reviews=Death. I saw Tea with Mussolini yesterday in the theatre where MLSF is to play on the 30th....no poster....no trailer!!

MORE BAD NEWS Just spoke to my local Miramax Rep... MLSF will now be released in NY and LA on July 23 And the top 10 markets will get it on August 6th. No plans for any expansion after that Agaaaaah!! Karen call Cara.

Aaaaagh indeed! Postponed again (again) Although somehow it doesn't surprise me. :-( Oh well, good news...it's not up against the might of EWS (what is it up against?), bad news...limited release. Why do Miramax keep shifting the goal posts? IMO, great reviews won't help MLSF. Promotion is everything and this film is getting none. People can't see a film they don't know exists; most people I know rely on television advertising and movie trailers to lure them to movies. Agree with you totally here, Lynda. It's been proved that most people who go to movies don't even read reviews! Well (positive thinking again) now Miramax has got more time to show those trailers!

Evelyn, do we know know what the top 10 markets are? Any chance of getting it near San Francisco? (Bethan) Well(positive thinking again) now Miramax has got more time to show those trailers! Good point! :)

I saw no trailers for SiL until just before it opened in NY last December (and I was watching lots of TV then). Perhaps Miramax believes in "just in time advertising" as opposed to many other studios who run commercials months in advance. Or perhaps they know this movie won't do well (I agree, Evelyn, CF has minimal recognition factor here in the US) in the mass market so they're taking a laid back approach. I wonder if the delay had something to do with getting theaters to show it. (Karen) If I see the trailer for Bowfinger or American Pie one more time, I might... And I saw neither of these. But if I see the trailer for EWS one more time, I'm gonna do a bad bad thing!

MLSF will now be released in NY and LA on July 23 And the top 10 markets will get it on August 6th. No plans for any expansion after that Agaaaaah!! Hmmm, saw that this morning when I happening to be checking a film release site and noticed that it wasn't listed for July 14 or 16 but for the 23rd. (FYI, other films opening on that date are The Haunting, Drop Dead Gorgeous, Inspector Gadget, and a couple of other v.ltd release ones.) Talked to several people at Miramax and nobody knows nothing other than the date changes. The NY screening will still be on the 12th, followed by a small dinner. When pushed, she said MEM would likely be there, but not CF. And it might be at the Crown Gotham. August 6th was given as the Top 8 markets (wonder which 2 got dropped out?), but there are no plans after that. Will see how it does. I may or may not get a call back from the bozos in Distribution, but they are probably out yucking it up at Big Daddy, South Park or American Pie. :-( Am very disappointed with Miramax. It is getting to be too much like the other studios. Was a time when Miramax would be actively promoting small films, now they're too interested in Scream 3 or the remake of Harvey. Think they need to reread their mission statement.

Who cares if it does well financially or critically, we Firthfans just want to see this movie, we have waited too long and to keep postponing it is just too much, this could go on for ever, why only the other day I heard that there was to be a small Premiere for it in NY on Monday the 12th, does this now still apply, I'm sure it can't be that bad that they have to keep postponing it, and why isn't it going wider now. Oh this is so frustrating, I thought once it was released in the US that it wouldn't be t o long before we got it here, what with SLOW and now MLSF, we certainly have to sweat it out for a glimpse of our DB. On a happier note I see, according to my local video shop, that SIL will be available to rent in August, and then I can slow mo and re-wind as much as I like.I bet youare glad you saw the film in Newport now Susan, its anyone's guess how many more times it will be postponed.!! (not a happy bunny, as you can tell)

Evelyn, are you still going to be able to see it on the 6th August, is it showing in Oklahoma City?

G'day droolers. I finally got here. Have been "lurking" for a while getting the gist of what goes on. I am so pleased to find that I'm not the only person who realises how talented, gorgeous etc. Colin Firth is. I am hoping to travel from Australia to London in January 2000 and plan on being at the Donmar on 15 January so I hope to meet up with those of you who are also going.

You're right, Ann, I'm very glad I saw it while I had the chance. Hopefully that will not have been my only chance -- from what Laura says, MLSF will definitely make it to Boston. These scheduling changes have me totally flummoxed. There is nothing about this film that would make a studio want to deliberately hide it from public view. Could it be that they're holding off till Colin is available to do promotion?

(Ann)Evelyn, are you still going to be able to see it on the 6th August, is it showing in Oklahoma City? No. Okla City is not one of the top 10 ...Not even second 10. The top 10 markets go by population and I don't know where SF ranks,. My guess is that they will see has it does in the top 10 (or 8, as Karen learned). Right now there are no plans for expansion to other cities. Along with Miramax,I really do care that it does well financially and critically...Because on that rests his future roles.This is his first starring film with a major studio since Valmont...and we don't want another fiasco like that one was. When we say trailers, we are referring to cinemas (a.k.a. coming attractions) We are not referring to TV.

Hi Cathey and welcome, if only Miramax realised how many loyal and devoted Firthfans there are out there, but I am going to look on the positive side, perhaps they are waiting for CF to be available, like Susan said, on the other hand how can they go from releasing it in 30 cities to only 8, whichever way you try to reason it it it just doesn't make sense, its hardly going to do well in only 8 cities!! BTW look forward to meeting you Cathey in January.

Welcome Cathey....we love newcomers to our board..... And you are just what this board needed on this depressing day. Tell us how you first came upon Colin . Have you seen him in many roles? We are discussing Femme Fatale on #98.Join us if you haveseen the film...or just join us period. I will be goingto the Donmar on 15 January so I hope to meet up with those of you who are also going. What a windfall!! A newbie and a recruit for 3 DOR in the new Millennium. We shall be delighted to have you...Look forward to meeting you there!!

The ironical thing is that we Firthfans probably upped the number of people going to see AIH, just in the hope of seeing a trailer for MLSF, no wonder it is No.10 ion the US Charts. Oh dear I think I had better go to bed.

(SB Robinson) Evelyn, do we know know what the top 10 markets are? Any chance of getting it near San Francisco? Just called my local library; according to the Motion Picture Almanac of 1998, the top ten movie markets are: NYC, LA, Chicago, Baltimore/DC, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Boston, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Detroit and Atlanta. I know Toronto is bigger than some of these cities, so perhaps MLSF will be shown there, but I also have a sister living near Philadelphia, so remain hopeful. How can this film be considered unworthy to show, considering the incredible dross that gets released? Anyone see Portrait of a Lady; now that was bad (and it starred the wretched John Malkovich). I do remember reading in one of the Newport reports that a lot of the audience were seniors and we know the film industry caters to the under-30's, but then why make this film in the first place? Where is ODB's guardian angel - he deserves so much better than this. However, Miramax may have a plan here!!?? BTW, I e-mailed Miramax twice in the last month at their MLSF site to find out about the release and never got a response. They need a less n in manners.

First of all, hi there Cathey! Can't make head nor tail of Miramax "strategy". Possibly they don't consider MLSF "suitable" for a wider release because it won't appeal to the dominant 14-25 year old market. I was checking what is on at our local multiplex today, and believe me, you'd have to pay me to see these movies. Complete dross. I think it's very difficult for actors like CF who obviously prefer films with some compassion and "heart". I'm puzzled why Colin isn't at the NY premiere, unless work commitments don't allow, although he could make an overnight trip to NY ( Miramax flew Judi Dench over on Concorde!). But it looks as though it will be very low-key and there'll be no interviews, except perhaps with MEM. How can he be recognised as a "star", if he's never seen!!! Opening on the 23rd means competition from Catherine Z-J (not my favourite by any means!)in The Haunting and Rupert Everett in Inpector Gadgett! Oh well, as Lynda says, Miramax may have a plan!

Cathey, always good to hear from new people. See, coming out of lurkdom doesn't hurt. Please jump in with both feet. We don't bite and we love to hear everyone's views. This Spring reunion at the Donmar is going to be great! (Susan) from what Laura says, MLSF will definitely make it to Boston. But it's not going to open there at the same time as NY/LA. I don't care what the person at the Kendall Sq said. Most of the people who work at the theaters can barely walk and chew gum at the same time. Besides, all bets are off now as to dates. BTW, the PR firm in Chicago that handles Miramax publicity locally said they have no clue as to what theaters it will be shown at and she's working now on any advance screenings that may be held. Said to call her back at the end of next week. (Lynda) Just called my local library; according to the Motion Picture Almanac of 1998, the top ten movie markets are To the head of the class!! So Detroit and Atlanta got shafted. Evelyn call the airlines! ;-) (Lynda) but then why make this film in the first place? There is an audience for other films, but the summer is relegated to the dregs or dross for the most part. Remember, it was considered a real gamble for Spielberg to release SPR last summer. (Bethan) Can't make head nor tail of Miramax "strategy". Let's try another approach. Perhaps Miramax looked at the disappointing receipts from The Winslow Boy (an excellent film that received consistently fabulous reviews) and decided that MLSF deserved a better shot and they moved it away from the heavy artillery of EWS and the grossout movies. Could be positive?? Have my fingers crossed. (Bethan) why Colin isn't at the NY premiere, unless work commitments don't allow That has to be the reason. It isn't going to be a big to-do. Besides MEM has to show her face. She could seriously be in contention for best actress this year. Miramax flew Judi Dench over on Concorde! Price of Concorde tickets is entire Miramax promotional budget. ;-)

(Karen)Besides MEM has to show her face.She could seriously be in contention for best actress this year. Surely, you're joking...for Limbo?? I'm puzzled why Colin isn't at the NY premiere, unless work commitments don't allow, If I were Colin I would demand to be at the opening of my film in the US. But knowing him....he breathed a sigh of relief. Jennifer has been giving interviews lately...and said recently..."I realize that sometimes you have to make a little noise". True, True.

Cathey, you're the lucky recipient of our new found talents for animated art. At least some of us have the talent! (lovely welcome, karen). So glad you're here. (Ann) if only Miramax realised how many loyal and devoted Firthfans there are out there, We appear to get visitors here from time to time. Who knows? I think the important thing to remember is that this film is two years old. Sure, that's Miramax's fault and I know we disagree with whatever their reason has been for putting off and putting off ad infinitum this film. But they have a reason which is probably why it appears to be close to being swept under the carpet. What more can we do but speculate until we figure out their strategy? By the way, a friend of mine has seen the MLSF trailer before either Big Daddy or Austin Powers, he couldn't remember which. Odd choices, don't you think?

To add further to your pessimism, he likes to be just an ordinary bloke. Although to a certain exten I believet C.F. cares whether a film makes it or not, we have read over and over again that when a film is finished thats it. To him its a job. Basically too as I have said before its his background and feels he has more important things to do To add to your sorrow I do not believe he will continue to act much past forty, so lets make the most of what we've got. Two films in the offing, a television f lm and 3dor in January.

Someone posted a message at ROP, P&P, saying that a pollhad been conducted in England and P&P and Darcy were voted the best mini series and hero since the invention of TV. Has anyone seen this. Maybe Miramax should read it.

(AnneH) To add to your sorrow I do not believe he will continue to act much past forty Why do you believe this? If you look at the list of actors he admires, they are all older and still acting in their 60s plus. I always had the impression that Colin wanted to follow in their footsteps, to be regarded as a very good, solid journeyman-type actor. (Evelyn) Surely, you're joking...for Limbo?? No joke. Have you seen any noteworthy women's roles yet this year? Not I. When her performance is deemed "a revelation" in a national mag, this will be hyped to get her the nom. And she is incredible, as are all the other actors. Not a bad one in the bunch. The singing will clinch it for her.

Quite the social activist. From The Independent: COMEDIAN MOCKS TAX-FREE ART SHOW THE BROADCASTER and comedian Mark Thomas, whose campaign has forced members of the aristocracy to pay tax on their inherited works of art, dismissed an exhibition of tax-exempt art as a "PR stunt" last night. Thomas, who has been campaigning for four years to force the owners of tax- exempt art to open their homes to the public, said the exhibition at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge was an attempt to soften government regulations on displaying tax-exempt art. [...] As part of his campaign, Mr Thomas arranged for 30 people dressed as pantomime animals and pieces of fruit to see a Gainsborough owned by Sir Evelyn de Rothschild. When they then all applied to see the other 300 objects Sir Evelyn had on the exempt list he took the works off the list and paid the tax due on them. *********** So do you think Colin dressed as a pantomime animal or a piece of fruit? ;-D

Well, as I entered the local "art" cinema, I inquired as to when "MLSF" would be showing, and the "CLERK" said, "not for a while".....and then as I waited for "An Ideal Husband" to play, there was ODB, COLIN, in the "MLSF" trailer....!!! YAAYYYYYYY!!! What this means is that the stupid clerk has no idea who CF is, nor that it will be shown at the theatre that pays her salary....I almost want to sob, but just knowing it is coming is enough for me.. WHERE ARE COLIN FIRTH'S AGENTS....????!@!!! He is so hot right now, wny is he not making the 'rounds' of the talk shows.....??? ARG!!!! Who cares about Rupert Everett when CF is so much better....!!!!! HELP!!!!! ckjones1@ameritech.net.com

The Web Release Schedule web page reports that MLSF will open in LA & NY on the 23thJuly, then 30th July top 20 markets, August top 40 markets,so many contradictory reports, and I agree CF should be at the Premiere, this is his film!!!

Yes, AnnW, I saw those listings at the website yesterday in the morning. I specifically asked Miramax about them (date by date) and they said they were wrong...to a woman, they said the info was wrong and I spoke to three different areas: Head of Publicity, Regional Publicity and Distribution. As Evelyn will verify later, the Miramax rep in OK *called her* because the changes had just been made to the schedule. Karin: What kind of HELP do you need?

Welcome, Cathey! If you've been lurking for a while you know we have our ups and downs here. Right now things are a bit down :-( (Evelyn) Along with Miramax,I really do care that it does well financially and critically...Because on that rests his future roles That's it, in a nutshell. BTW, I see movie trailers on TV all the time (as did Karen on E!) so I've come to use the term interchangeably with commercials. (Karen) Am very disappointed with Miramax. It is getting to be too much like the other studios Absolutely. Two best pic Oscars in three years and it's "goodbye independents." they're too interested in Scream 3 or the remake of Harvey Don't forget SiL II! Price of Concorde tickets is entire Miramax promotional budget. ;-) Hey, this may not be far from the truth! I read in 7/9 edition of Ent. Weekly that H'wood is, after years of inflation, undergoing an austerity program. No more $20 mil salaries (except for a select few, such as Jim Carrey *gack*); no more perks (e.g., no private jet for Sean Penn). There's hard times ahead for the rest of the food chain as well (character actors, producers, directors, writers, etc.). More movies are being filmed outside Hollywood (next to Karen's house, it seems) because it's cheaper Happily, since ODB is London based, he shouldn't be seriously affected by this. To add to your sorrow I do not believe he will continue to act much past forty Now there's a scary thought. If you had said this last year during the long Firth drought, I might have agreed. Presently he seems to have found his nitch, is content to be 'marginalised' and has that mortgage, so IMO he'll keep going. This week's Newsweek features a short interview with Rupert Everett (for all you RE fans out there :-P). It addresses how MBFW changed his career, being gay and Catholic, and how he would raise a child (??).

(Eileen) There's hard times ahead for the rest of the food chain as well... More movies are being filmed outside Hollywood (next to Karen's house, it seems) because it's cheaper Could've knocked me over with a feather when a woman led a little gaggle of children (extras) up my steps one day. She (the assigned tutor) had been told to use them (in the shade and nearby) since their van had been reassigned as all the *stars* were on set that day. That didn't fly with me!! Hey, after next week, they are off to Italy.

Miramax flew Judi Dench over on Concorde! OK, let's get real. When Colin wins a few Tonys, SWETs, BAFTAs, and gets an Oscar nomination (and is bruited for a second out of the film being premiered), I guarantee he'll get the Concorde treatment. I love the man's work, but he's no Judi Dench.

(Chris) OK, let's get real. But we like fantasyland! ;-D Unfortunately they don't like to give those awards to *heart-throb* actors. Nothing for Tumbledown. Nothing for P&P (and don't try to convince me that Robbie Coltrane deserved it...he's been doing Cracker year in year out..) Nothing for Playmaker. I could go on and on...

I just finished watching Camille (the film looked fine - no washouts). DB is very pretty, and appears to do more kissing in it than in the rest of his films together, but Camille seems a little passionless, considering the story. The difference between Armand and Mr. Darcy is the difference between a boy and a man. However, it may grow on me - I didn't care much for Wings of Fame first time around, but liked it very much after subsequent viewings (Karen) and don't try to convince me that Robbie Coltrane deserved it...he's been doing Cracker year in year out.. Unbelievable that Colin lost to Coltrane/Cracker; I guess the BAFTA panel never read P & P, so didn't realize the difficulty of the role. IMO, many actors could play Cracker well (though perhaps not ODB, as he would give the character some redeeming quality or other), but there is only one Mr. Darcy!! (Karen) Nothing for Playmaker. LOL! But who saw it!!??

He should definitely have won a BAFTA for Tumbledown, he certainly didn't play it for his looks, but he was SL. Still I have high hopes for DQ!! Have you been in touch with BBC Scotland recently Karen, do we kow when it is to be aired? Also Karen & Eileen you will both be able to see MLSF I hope and will report back and let us know what you both think of it, an unbiased opinion, of course.

(anne h.)To add to your sorrow I do not believe he will continue to act much past forty, so lets make the most of what we've got. Is this just a conjecture based on his interview a long time ago.? (Before Livia,...before he owned a new flat in London, a flat in Rome and a condo in LA).Plus school fees. Or do you have something more concrete to base it on? I'm not trying to be adverserial....just interested on the basis:-)

Thank you ladies for the warm welcome, with a special thank you to Karen. That was lovely, and very clever. (Evelyn) I have known of Colin Firth since I saw "A Month in the Country" many years ago. I then watched P&P2 the first time it was on TV, and knew that Mr Darcy was Colin Firth, but that was it. The 2nd time P&P2 was on TV, I taped it and watched parts of it on the odd occasion. But THEN one Sunday afternoon in November 1998 I was house-bound and decided to watch it again and since then I have been utterly and completely Firthsessed. I found it very difficult to find any information on him in Austral a but in January this year, the internet was loaded on to my computer (at work, I don�t have one at home) and since then its been WOW. I was blown away at how much interest in him there is around the world. I find myself arriving at work earlier and earlier so I have time to "go for a surf on the net". I have managed to track down a few of his earlier movies, but am still looking for "Valmont" "Femme Fatale" "Tumbledown" "Master of the Moor" "Camille" and "Dutch Girls". Given the problems you guys are having with MLSF, I have little hope of seeing it in Australia, especially as I live outside a metropolitan area. I may have to console myself with video (that�s if it makes it of course). I was shattered to hear about SLOW; I was really looking forward to that.

( Cathey)... Firthsessed.... New word to add to our vocab thanks Cath... Try http://www.reel.com ... for FF, Dutch Girls, Camille, Valmont.They have PAL too. For the others you'll have to find a firthsessed friend in Australia.

When Colin wins a few Tonys, SWETs, BAFTAs, and gets an Oscar nomination (and is bruited for a second out of the film being premiered), I guarantee he'll get the Concorde treatment. I love the man's work, but he's no Judi Dench. My comment about Judi Dench and Concorde was strictly tongue in cheek....I think if Colin ever gets the Concorde treatment I'll fall off my chair! :-) But even by ordinary scheduled flights, he could make a quick return trip to NY. He's got the lead role, and unlike at the AMFAR screening, might attract some attention from the media. RE. BAFTAs...even Robbie Coltrane looked surprised when he won his third BAFTA in a row for the same role! Cathey, I'm sure that dates for MLSF have been set for Australia....August?

Cathey fear not MLSF is scheduled for Oz. Hi, I live in Perth, where do you live. You can still get Camille from video shops, I did. Get in touch with me tell me a bit about yourself and perhaps something can be arranged. There are quite a few of us who like him your are not alone.

Re my suggestion of giving up acting at forty. He is becoming quite deeply involved in politics and I have a feeling about it. Not to worry I just posted my feelings to get a reaction. My apologies. Does anyone no what Londinium is about I have had a query from a friend here in Perth and I thought I would enquire on this board.

"Yes, Virginia....There is such a movie......." Good News: PREMIERE MOVIE MAGAZINE August edition P. 24. Cinemascope: Movies That Matter This Month : MY LIFE SO FAR: Drama: starring Colin firth and Mary elizabeth Mastrantonop ; directed by Hugh Hudson " Perceptive ten-year-old fraser Pettigrew marrates his life so far, which includes watching his parents' marriage quietly crumble and learning about the 'temptations of the flesh' via naughty books. With MLSF, Hudson (Chariots of Fire) delivers a rich and complexly woven drama about familial love and tensions, set against the lush, idyllic backdrop of the Scottish countryside. Release date: July 16 (Miramax) Yeay!!!It was listed along with EWS,Runaway Bride,.... At least a movie mag is admitting there is such a film....:-)

PREMIERE MOVIE MAGAZINE Yes Evelyn!!!! That is very comforting. I picked up a British magazine called Company just because it had "The 100 Sexiest men" on the cover, but to my disbelief, it had everyone, and I mean everyone, but CF! BTW, I loved the Harpers & Queen pictures of JE! She is looking prettier every time.

Thankyou for telling us about the Premiere magazine article Evelyn, I'm glad they liked it, I'm beginning to think HW is really trying to protect this film and give it as good a chance as possible but I would like to see a fe more trailers in the cinemas, there is still time though.

Firth Fans: Spring Fans and Lurkers.... Time to circle the wagons..... Wanna do something besides ring hands and worry....? Call corporate Miramax in NY: 212-941-3800 Ask who the Miramax rep in your city is....because you wish to inquire when MLSF is coming to you nearest city. Then call that person and tell them how much you wish to see this film and when will it be released in your city...(or nearest city).You don't have to give a name... And it won't cost much because you won't talk long. The time has come..."to make a little noise...." Let's hear reports from everyone....

Thank you, Evelyn for the Miramax info. Sounds like a good idea...anything to feel less helpless about it--especially for those of us outside the range of the "Top Ten" (or "eight"...whatever.)

It is Top 10. I misunderstood. It was NY & LA plus the next 8. OK, so math wasn't my subject...

He is becoming quite deeply involved in politics An interest in social justice does not necessarily signify a deep involvement in politics.

And then again it may. Who really knows? A Miramax rep in my little town? Is there such a creature? Good idea, Evelyn. This woman makes things happen.

More on Fever Pitch's change in release dates, per Phaedra (an elaboration of what Winter posted a few days ago) It is being pushed back to due (1) inability to get screens and (2) the tie-in with the beginning of the English League Soccer season in August. Phaedra has made arrangements to promote on Fox Sports (which has the rights to these games) during the soccer matches and sportscasts. I think the games are shown tape delayed on Sunday nights. (Live on Pay per View) Now some horrible news: Spike done ripped off from Fever Pitch!! Saw Summer of Sam and there's a big, loud, great action montage set to Baba O'Reilly just like in FP. Even had scenes at Yankee Stadium. Bwaaaaahhhhh!!

Another CF film update: Was jogging down my street this AM, and what did I see plasterd on the front of our local art house theatre: "My Life So Far!"....coming soon... What was so cool about it was right next to "An Ideal Husband" poster.

TWO BIG THUMBS UP!!! My Life So Far was reviewed on Siskel & Ebert, and Roger and his guest critic, Norman Marks, gave it glowing reviews. Norman did the film overview and got to give his opinion first. He said: "MLSf is the kind of lovely, lovable film that lots of people say they want to see and then unfortunately don't." He mentioned that the Scottish accent might be somewhat difficult to understand, but when Roger started he said he disagreed. The accent was perfectly understandable. This was not Trainspotting where you needed subtitles. Norman said the film meandered, but he thought that it seemed right, since the story is told throught the eyes of a child, who cannot control events. He said it involved him, despite the fact that he shouldn't have been able to relate to a family that lived in a castle, had servants and something about the spanghum moss. Roger was laughing. Then it was Roger's turn. First words out of his mouth: "I loved this film." (HOORAH!!!) He talked about Puttnam and Hudson reuniting. He loved the delightful dottiness of the family. Then Norman mentioned the fact that the film has been fiddled with for the past two years and said that sometimes we (the critics) know too much about a film's making (like its budget, problems, etc.). Roger said that he didn't know that (huh?? he was in Cannes and he spoke to Puttnam) and wished he hadn't been told. Usually that means that the film needs work. He said in MLSF's defense: "fiddled with it until they got the tune just right because this film doesn't have a wrong note in it. It's just de ightful from end to end." They showed a couple of clips. The first time you see Colin, he is poking his head into a hayloft type place where Fraser and Heloise are talking. You see him scowl. Then there's a scene at the dinner table (not the pushing the hand away thing), but where Fraser proposes that the women go into prostitution. Hardly anyone is singled out. At the beginning, Norman said "Uncle Morris is energetically played by Malcolm McDowell." Also, major kudos for Rosemary Harris. He said: "She deserves a special Os ar for continuing greatness." Otherwise, nothing mentioned about the acting. Just a great film. Whew!! Major hurdle crossed. Check at the Siskel and Ebert website later in the week. You will be able to hear the review. Here's the url: http://tvplex.go.com/buenavista/siskelandebert/reviews.html

Well the posting did deserve the emphasis, but I have closed the tags. Was way too excited!!

And I have double-checked, they are closed. BTW, this show was taped before the change in the release schedule. Go to the site to find out when it shows in your area and on what station.

TWO THUMBS UP!! Great news to wake up to Karen, thanks very much. I would have liked it if they had mentioned Colin but I am very happy and have high hopes for this film. S&E's opinion is well thought of believe, is that correct?

Thanks Karen for both the MLSF and FP news! And Winter,it's great to hear that the posters are going up. The eerie silence surrounding this movie has been making me nervous! Even if the dates have been shifted, I was still expecting that there would be some reviews. Small films can make an impact if they're "talked up" well in advance (like The Full Monty)......but you have to be told "hey, there's this great little movie coming out". There has to be some expectation. BTW I'm very glad that MLSF isn't opening the same week as EWS (why was it ever scheduled for then?). We're already getting the build up over here....lengthy articles about the filming of the "erotic masterpiece", photos of the kiss etc. In terms of coverage, it will bury all other films. Phaedra sound as though they've got a marketing strategy for FP. Good for them! Women's soccer seems to have a very high profile in the US at the moment...maybe a lot more people will be able to relate to soccer fandom. News item last week about plans for a Nigerian Arts (Music, Drama, Film) Festival somewhere in the UK. No shortage of material in music and drama, but they are actively looking for movies to show. I know the Bank have completely given up on SLOW (and am not resurrecting the subject, I promise!)and relegated it to the archives, but there are opportunities for less commercial showings, and more importantly, reviews (which say "this film is not a turkey!) Better than nothing! Any sightings of Colin on talk shows? All he's got to do is walk across the studio floor, grin a lot (and not tweak his nose), and utter a few platitudes (great movie, loved working on it, Scotland is beautiful etc) and his "recognition factor" will go sky high!

(AnneH) S&E's opinion is well thought of believe, is that correct? Very correct. S&E made film review a popular media. Siskel's death was even mentioned at the last Oscar ceremony. Roger is a very well-respected critic and Miramax is probably jumping for joy that the commercials can now say in voiceover, "Roger Ebert loved this movie." The guest critic, Norman Marks, is local to Chicago. I've heard him for ages on the radio doing his reviews. I believe he is just broadcast (radio and TV) and not print. (Bethan) Any sightings of Colin on talk shows? Not so far. In fact, the schedule is not cooperating. Both Letterman and Rosie O'Donnell are on reruns next week. Is there some kind of special holiday going on in NY that we don't have here? Argh!! However, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio will be on Regis and Kathie Lee on Monday. She will no doubt be talking about MLSF and Limbo (for which she stands an excellent chance of being nominated for awards...if she keeps in front of the public). Definitely need to check up on the Charlie Rose show, unless he's in reruns as well. All he's got to do is walk across the studio floor, grin a lot (and not tweak his nose), and utter a few platitudes...and his "recognition factor" will go sky high! LOL!! Would love to see him on Leno (maybe after the movie is out and Colin can break away from Londinium). Jay would be doing his tough machoman, hitching up the pants bit, and say, "Hey, I hear that you had all the women in England laid out over your wet shirt and tight breeches..." ;-D

Murph has posted my summary of the S&E show review segment on her news page: http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/news2.html Also, I have sent her a NEW picture from MLSF, which she has posted as well on the MLSF page: http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/mlsf.html

Marvelous news! Hey, I was never worried. (sure, Heide, sure) I don't think there's a more powerful reviewer in the US than Ebert (including Maslin) so perhaps now Miramax can finally start the publicity machine. I'll be taping MEM on Regis tomorrow. Karen and Murph, you sure don't let any grass grow under your feet. Thanks.

...must be age setting in. I get a feeling in my bones when there is news of this movie!! Just like the trailer being at the Miramax site. Or maybe it's just logic (Cannes premiere=site update; planned US releases=TV review) Maybe I should call into Oprah and talk about my spiritualism with this movie? ;-D

The new picture is marvellous! Father and son are just too cute! Especially father...those white trousers are going to be most distracting! I don't think there's a more powerful reviewer in the US than Ebert And he loved it....better and better. I liked the Oscar link with Rosemary Harris. Harvey loves Oscars....maybe he'll start pushing RH for Best Supporting Actress and throw a few dollars into the promotion! :-) Nice little pipedream...I've always wanted a sequel. If we can't have P&P2, we could perhaps have "My Life Continues"? !

Thanks Karen....Our girl is always out there!!!! (Bethan)I liked the Oscar link with Rosemary Harris. Harvey loves Oscars....maybe he'll start pushing RH for Best Supporting Actress and throw a few dollars into the promotion! :-) Harvey knows RH's talent....she received a Supporting Actress Oscar nom for Tom and Viv another Miramax film.

re: the Jay Leno show, if any of CF's agents read this site, I'd like to remind them that during a Gwynneth Paltrow appearance, CF's name came up and I clearly remember JL saying he "loved that guy (that played Earl of Wessex)"......and I don't think Leno is on re-runs anytime soon... So, it seems that the invitation to appear would be out for CF?!! (I hope hope hope so!). With the tie-in to the success of SIL, it could only help the "general public" (as opposed to those of us with the superior taste and ability to support ODB and see MLSF a few times!), to get out and see this film, esp. after the S&E review. well, here's HOPING!!!

Karen reminded me.... If you go to the S&E website at the URL she gave us: http://tvplex.go.com/buenavista/siskelandebert/reviews.html And click on to : "When to Watch"...and select the city closest to you... They give you the next time this week that the program is repeated with the review of MLSF.

Karen, thanks for the heads-up -- the S&E show reviewing MLSF was on in the Boston area this a.m. Was so glad to see my assessment of the film concurred with Ebert's and Mark's and it wasn't just my rampant Firtholism making me biased. I thought Mark's comment that "this is the type of film people say they want to go see... and then don't" was very astute -- hope that isn't the case, but fear it may be in this summer of "American Pie" and other juvenile gross-out movies. RH's performance reminded me very much of her role in "Tom and Viv" -- can definitely see her being nominated for a supporting Oscar. The Boston Globe doesn't list MLSF as opening here this week, so guess it will be July 23 (hopefully), regardless of what the person at Kendall Sq. told Laura. Just a thought... with CF and Irene Jacob working together on Londinium at the moment, maybe Miramax will fly both of them to NY for the MLSF premiere -- sort of a "two MLSF costars for the price of one" deal;-)

An article in Sunday's Observer about Puttnam: From Sir... with lots of love He's just made his final film. Now he wants to shower Britain's neglected and vilified teachers with affection - and money. Euan Ferguson meets David Puttnam. Sunday July 11, 1999 The Observer She is, he enthuses, his soft beard bristling with passion, 'astonishing, wonderful, beautiful, our jewel. If she didn't exist you'd have to invent her.' The one-time head of Columbia Pictures, producer of some of Britain's most fizzingly dramatic films of the past 30 years, once on nodding terms with half the stars of the Hollywood firmament, is getting most excited indeed about a lady, which is fascinating, given that Schools Minister Estelle Morris - while doubtless every one of these things, and more - has not hitherto been noted as the kind of lady who would, as they say in Hollywood, incite bishops to kick holes through stained-glass windows. But passions change. And for David Puttnam, happy and sunned and ennobled, and enthused in a way he says seldom happened in films, his new and brimming passion is education, and it's likely to fill the rest of his life. Which starts about now. Yesterday he was promising me the 'finest coffee in all of London' as we sat baking outside a Knightsbridge cafe, and trying to pitch education reforms - software potential, teacher-training ideas - with the manic enthusiasm of a teen auteur granted one three-minute spiel. Today brings the culmination of a year's work with the live broadcasting of his 1999 Teacher's Awards, a kind of schools Oscars to reward the likes of 'best new teacher in a secondary'. Tomorrow he flies to New York for the launch of his latest film, My Life So Far. It will be his last film ever. 'That's it. Last one. Clapper down.' There are no second thoughts. 'No, I can't conceive of being tempted back, ever. Over the past year or so, travelling round all these schools, I've met more astonishing people than I ever did in the film industry. And the problem they're struggling with is so intractable, so difficult - they'll be struggling with it for the next 50 years. And when you're 58, as I am... it's going to see me out, this battle, and there's something rather exciting about that.' His resentment at the film industry is obvious. After leading the last British assault on Hollywood with some of the most charmed films of our age - Chariots of Fire, The Killing Fields - he was spat out by Columbia's owners, Coca-Cola, and ended up with ME and accompanying depression. The frustrations, these days, of wrestling with the twin horns of what he sees as the schools problem - Middle England's prejudice against teachers, and teachers' prejudice against change - are nothing compared to his occasional frustrations at the shallowness of Hollywood. 'Last week, trying to get a particular star to help present these awards tomorrow, I had the most infuriating conversation I've had in the past year. Not her fault: I couldn't even get past the PR. Oh, it was just infinitely depressing far worse than anything else.' His resentment against the teaching profession, on the other hand, has almost completely abated. His own education, at a grammar school in north London - his best friend there was Mirror editor Piers Morgan's father - was 'not great.' He left at 16 to become a messenger boy, and has said since that the lack of a university education left him with 'resenment and a slight chip for the rest of my life.' Eighteen months ago, then, when invited to oversee the BBC1 project to find the most improved schools, he threw himself into it with keen fascination. Now it consumes him. He talks, at length, of his welter of ideas: of the desire to harness the 'astounding deftness, the razor-sharp thinking' of a child perched on a PlayStation to that child's education, and of 'multiple intelligence'; though he doesn't want to be labelled too 'hip', and accepts some Sixties educational theories stand up today about as well as the one about the world sitting on the back of a turtle. In fact, he resists and resents any categorising as 'traditionalist' or 'moderniser'; what he's mainly against is 'bad teachers'. Which means? 'A bad teacher is anyone who consistently - and I mean year after year, for we all have bad years; God knows I had a couple - but consistently fails to engage attention.' It's also a question, very much, of leadership. 'I hope this doesn't sound too snobbish, but you can tell as soon as you arrive at a school. You're either met by someone who knows you're coming, who smiles and takes you inside to meet the head, or you find yourself talking to someone who hasn't a clue, and mumbles something about the room at the end of the corridor. The difference between those two schools, everything about them, is phenomenal.' But there aren't, he insists, that many bad teachers - and he insists on insisting on this to Estelle, and to David Blunkett and Chief Inspector of Schools Chris Woodhead, both of whose ears he regularly bends, and both of whom he counts as friends. 'I was reported recently as saying I thought Chris should go. That's rubbish, absolute rubbish. On the other hand� Chris has said that there are 15,000 poor teachers. Well, he's probably right. What people forget is that this is 3.2 per cent of the whole profession. If 96.8 per cent of people in, say, journalism, or - please God - the film industry were either good or brilliant, we'd see it as an absolute triumph.' Didn't it depress him, then, when his 'own' government, the party which ennobled him in 1997 and invited him to become an informal adviser on education, seemed to spin so often against teachers? He sighs. 'It can be� frustrating.' Only 'frustrating'? 'Well, there's a legacy,' he says very carefully - he is, remember, despite his kind eyes and inherent honesty, a man at the heart of New Labour, which for men like this can bring the need for some particularly painful moral gymnastics. 'There's so much baggage people bring to this. It's astonishing. I've spoken to many businessmen, and it's always the same; they agree they need a well-educated workforce - but they won't admit this means we start paying for good teachers; the link is made really grudgingly. 'Of course we should be paying them better, and we should also accept some teachers get more than others. A physics teacher for the next century is so much more crucial than a history teacher, and so much harder to keep out of the private sector - so we must start to pay accordingly. 'But, in general, we should be loving all our teachers, celebrating them. We must stop this blame-and-shame culture.' Much of which, surely, was introduced by his chum Chris Woodhead? 'Well... as I say, there's an awareness of a legacy; of the way people see teachers. It's time to end it. That Middle England prejudice against them, that Daily Mail stuff - that's pretty much exactly what these awards are here to counter.' And he's off into the sunshine, looking forward more to tonight's awards than the glitz of New York. At this stage in life, with his new passion, and his house in Ireland, he seems to be that good and pleasant thing: a man finally happy in his own skin, the genuine article. He's also a man of his word. The tiny cafe of Baker & Spice does, in fact, serve the finest coffee in London. It's almost enough to make you forgive him for so often encouraging the career of Nigel Havers, when one might have argued instead for him to be taken behind the barn and hit with an axe. But not enough, not quite enough, to ever win forgiveness for that bloody Vangelis soundtrack. ******** What's the matter with Nigel Havers anyway? He could clear the hurdles without spilling a drop of champagne. Don't think anyone is going to want to put Puttnam on any talk shows, except maybe Charlie Rose.

Anne Thanks for your message. I tried to email you at the address on this board but it came back "undeliverable". My address here is the correct one if you want to contact me. Thanks. There was a picture of Elizabeth & Mr Darcy in a Brisbane paper over the weekend. I nearly fell over when I saw it. Its because P&P2 is showing on Australian television at the moment. I haven�t read the article as yet but if there is anything worthwhile (ie: Colin related) I will post it later. At a quick glance it looks as though it is discussing Jane Austen rather than the actors involved. Where do I go to find out the meaning of the various symbols used at this board? Eg. =P or :-)D. Thanks.

Don't think anyone is going to want to put Puttnam on any talk shows DP is, I am afraid to say, a bit of a political bore. We heard him speak at a dinner just before the last general election. We all wanted to hear about the British film industry, a subject on which DP might have some unique insight, instead of which we were given a lecture on the Labour Party policy on Europe! It was not even well delivered. He droned from notes, which was totally inapropriate for the occasion. RH's performance reminded me very much of her role in "Tom and Viv" -- can definitely see her being nominated for a supporting Oscar. Oh dear. Does that mean that even if this film is a critical success, Colin will be overlooked again in favour of others (like JF in SIL)? Cannot stop looking on the downside :-)

BTW I was wandering among the CF sites recently and came upon the picure of JF kissing CF (on firth.com) and I noticed for the first time that Colin is wearing a rather unusual watch. It has a black oblong face and what appears to be a red strap. Is anyone knowledgeable about watches? No detail about ODB is too small to be of interest!

Another review for MLSF at http://www.culturevulture.net/Movies/MyLifeSoFar.htm - so-so, mentions Colin.

The Boston Globe doesn't list MLSF as opening here this week, so guess it will be July 23 (hopefully), regardless of what the person at Kendall Sq. told Laura. ] Kendall Square doesn't advertise it's movies. They have a listing but it goes in on Thursday's, that's when they update their movie listings. How many movies do you know are playing Kendall Square? Run Lola Run, Edge of Seventeen, The Winslow Boy, Cookie's Fortune, Get Real. These are movies that don't generally advertise. They change their schedule on Thursday nights in time for Friday's opening. So we'll see. I

Good on ya, Karen--you've been a busy girl. Thanks for keeping us so up-to-date. I bet Siskel also gave MLSF a thumbs up from the big movie house in the sky! (Karen) Is there some kind of special holiday going on in NY that we don't have here? Argh!! Hillary's listening tour? It's probably best that the shows are in repeats this week since MLSF's opening has been pushed back. I'd *love* to see Colin on Rosie (but am not holding my breath--he is working, after all. His appearance on talk shows is possible but isn't a given). She can gush like the rest of us gals (Dave and Jay wouldn't be the same) and I'd like to see how he would handle it. Thanks for the cultureventure url, Ann. The reviewer dissed the movie (not ODB) but it was nice to see his pictures all around the text. Have Regis on right now. The flashback of Regis cooking with Miss Piggy is over (now I know why I don't watch these shows on my days off). Harry Hamlin's on now. Ho-hum...bring on MEM!! Bring on a clip of the movie which predominantly features ODB! C'mon!

Cathey, the symbols are called emoticons and most of the ones we use here are smiles, smirking smiles, big smiles, etc. Here's a decent list of them: http://members.aol.com/bearpage/smileys.htm If you search in Yahoo under emoticons, you will see tons and tons of symbols, but very likely no one here will understand them and I think of them are jokes or attempts to be clever. Thanks AnnW for the review. This guy is definitely a vulture and not necessarily of culture. ;-) not very likable uncle (Malcolm McDowell). Thank goodness it's not Colin this time. It seems a shame really, since the film is so pleasing to look at and so much first class talent has been rounded up. Colin Firth...only gets the opportunity to display some serious thespian skills near the end of the film, leaving one to think that had this been a more complexly drawn character, the entire proceedings might have been a whole lot more interesting. First class talent and Colin is first named. How appropriate. I wonder about this vulture guy and the type of films he likes. Laura, as far as I know most if not all theaters change their shows on Friday and do have listings in the newspapers. With anticipated films, ads will go out usually the week before or at least on Sunday before to say "Opening Friday." MLSF wouldn't be that type of film. However, I cannot believe that one movie theater in Boston would be able to show a film before it opens in NY and LA. Boston is in the Top 10 and should be showing it on August 6, unless Miramax changes its schedule. I have no doubt that the film reels are sitting there, but it could be that the person you spoke to wasn't aware of the change in release schedules.

Heide, don't read this if you haven't watched your tape yet. Good news: MEM mentioned CF: "...played by Colin Firth, who is a dear friend of ours..." Bad news: no CF in the clip :-( Robbie and Irene are at the piano, playing and singing 'Sunny Side of the Street' when joined by MEM. It was rather short. Kathie Lee got 'Limbo' mixed up with MLSF--thought MLSF was written by John Sayles. Regis did say "[MLSF] is from Miramax, so you know it's got to be good" (or words to that effect).

However, I cannot believe that one movie theater in Boston ] The Winslow Boy opened at the same theater the same day it opened in NY/LA, this cinema does it all the time. Does it make it right? Probably not. Kendall Square is not Boston, but Cambridge, there is a distinctive difference. Most likely MLSF will NOT open in Boston. (Remember, Boston is small approximately four cinema's in Boston Proper, and not many in outlying Boston areas) I'm heading down there today to find out exactly when the movie will open. Shakespeare in Love didn't open in Boston (agai , Boston proper) until just before Oscar time, then it played at the Copley Square Cinema (Which is a Sony/Lowes theater.) However, it played in Cambridge (Harvard Square for quite a long time.) So Boston, shouldn't be the market, it should technically be Cambridge. Like I said, this Kendall Square Cinema is a two-shot theater owned by Landmark, there is another one in Waltham, MA, but that place is non-existant when it comes to viewership.

Eileen: MEM mentioned CF: "...played by Colin Firth, who is a dear friend of ours..." I was hoping she would say something like "a great actor", or "a gorgeous actor", but at least she mentioned his name, and of course they had to mention Malcom M. as her co-star! Most irritating... I have emailed three shows requesting Colin as a guest: Live!, Jay Leno and David L. Probably nothing will come of it, but it makes me feel better.

Where do I go to find out the meaning of the various symbols used at this board? Eg. =P or :-)D. I ignore them....The others are CF films, co-stars etc.You'll catch on after a while. Thanks Karen...for the article on David Puttnam...sounds like a guy with a chip on his shoulder."My -way -or- the- highway" type! I don't think RH's chances of getting an Oscar nom for MLSF would weaken CF's...on the contrary. Am I the only one disappointed at MEM on Regis& Kathy this AM?Who cares about her life in London!! And someone should have told Regis that MLSF starred CF not Malcolm Mc Dowell!! (Talk about somone with a chip on her shoulder....me,)

..the screenwriter..telescoped the source memoir by Sir Denis Forman (a television executive) for purposes of dramatic cohesion. He achieved the cohesion, but the drama is conspicuously absent. Obviously the Culture Vulture didn't read the boring "source memoir" or he'd be raving about the screenplay.

David Puttnam is, I am afraid to say, a bit of a political bore (Allison) Agreed. I think he's very worthy, but a dull speaker, and could be accused of perhaps taking himself too seriously. There's a lot about him in the press at the moment, in connection with the Education Awards. MLSF is usually mentioned in the context of "Puttnam's last film" before he went on to his new life. I sincerely hope that when it comes to promotion of MLSF in the UK, we get photos and interviews with Colin, not DP!! I note that DP is going to the NY premiere. Does Colin get a ticket also? Will he/ an he attend? The reviews seem to be coming in for MLSF. I have a feeling that a lot will depend on the taste/preference/gender of individual reviewers...it may not appeal to everyone, and so reactions may be mixed.

Eileen, will you be going to see MLSF when it opens in NY on the 23rd, I am so looking forward to hearing what you ladies think of it. BTW I see that it is to open in Singapore (of all places) on the 26th August, and yet no date for the UK, I don't know. I wonder if it will be shown at the Edinburgh FF, a perfect opportunity I would have thought.

(Evelyn) Am I the only one disappointed at MEM on Regis& Kathy this AM? Me too, although it was nice that MEM made the comment about CF being "a very dear friend of ours", having made no comments about the rest of the cast beyond mentioning their names. I only wished she had said what a fine actor he is (she couldn't really gush over his looks). The clip chosen is not going to pull in crowds; wouldn't you think, since the audience for this show is primarily female, that the clip would have shown a seriously handsome CF with MEM instead? ODB certainly looked lovely in the S & E clip of the dinner scene. M & S looked as though they really enjoyed MLSF as they spoke of it. BTW, has anyone called MIramax yet?

I'm really hoping that CF will do a talk show. He has a great smile (rarely seen on camera) .... and it would be his chance to say, hey I'm the star (not just the husband!) and I've got another movie coming out! He's the only one who can do this. And the Earl of Wessex/Prince Edward connection is still topical and a good opening gambit. But isn't he known to be very reluctant to appear on chat shows?

(Evelyn) Am I the only one disappointed at MEM on Regis& Kathy this AM?Who cares about her life in London!! But it was MEM sitting there in the chair, so the chit-chat (and the clip) was about her. And in the minds of the promoters, US audiences will recognize MMcD from his stint on the ill-fated 'Fantasy Island' series moreso than CF. I'm afraid we'll have to get used to this until ODB makes these appearances himself. (Ann) will you be going to see MLSF when it opens in NY on the 23rd I probably won't be seeing it until Monday, the 26th--depends on where it's playing. Will be glad to share my opinion (something I never do, hee hee) on the most appropriate board. Lastly... One positive Roger Ebert review outweighs one negative Culture Vulture review by at least a million to one!

(Allison) Colin is wearing a rather unusual watch. It has a black oblong face and what appears to be a red strap. Was near major shopping area, so checked out men's watches. Nothing even close. Will probably have to visit jewelry district. BTW, Evelyn, the cows will still be on display when you're here!! (Laura) Kendall Square is not Boston, but Cambridge, there is a distinctive difference. (My final comment on the subject) Let's not get pedantic. When a film opens in Chicago, it will also open in Evanston, Oak Park, Oakbrook, Rolling Ghettos, Flossmoor, Highland Park, etc. Cambridge may not be Boston proper, but it is also not NY or LA proper. ;-) (AnnW) I see that it is to open in Singapore (of all places) on the 26th August, and yet no date for the UK All that means is that someone had that information (which was verifiable) and they made the effort to submit it to the IMDb. As I recall, there are dates for release in Australia too. (Eileen) Kathie Lee got 'Limbo' mixed up with MLSF Could anyone be ditzier? How much prep work do these *hosts* do? I think none is the answer for Kathie Lee. (Evelyn) Obviously the Culture Vulture didn't read the boring "source memoir" or he'd be raving about the screenplay. LOL!!! So true, so true. (Lynda) The clip chosen is not going to pull in crowds I've always noticed that the clips run on talk shows showcase the actor who is there. A scene where that actor is doing the majority of the talking or acting or kickboxing or whatever. It's not intended to entice the audience, but rather make the actor look good. But I do agree that one with Colin would have been better. (Bethan) And the Earl of Wessex/Prince Edward connection is still topical and a good opening gambit. We think alike. I used that in my last email to Phaedra!! A strike while the iron is hot approach. (Eileen) US audiences will recognize MMcD from his stint on the ill-fated 'Fantasy Island' series Thanks, Eileen. I had forgotten about that show. ;-D

Kathie Lee's preparation: 1. Show up. 2. Open mouth. After show: Return home and let Frank out of his locked room. (Karen)I had forgotten about that show. ;-D You and the rest of us who had any sense (actually, the show did do well critically). But why else is MMcD getting mentioned when CF's the star?

But why else is MMcD getting mentioned when CF's the star? He's older? ;-)

(Bethan)..I'm really hoping that CF will do a talk show In your dreams, Bethan But who knows...Jennifer did three in February...one was good:-)

From Time magazine (courtesy of Mari) MY LIFE SO FAR Directed by Hugh Hudson Is it gently celebrating eccentricity or mildly deploring familial dysfunction? This story, told by a 10-year-old boy growing up in a Scottish castle in the 1920s, can't quite make up its mind on that matter. Or what it thinks of its central figure, Edward (Colin Firth), an impractical inventor trying to make a go of moss farming. He is at once lustful (his determined eye is cast at his brother-in-law's pretty French fianc�e), a good father to his numerous brood, yet sometimes abrupt and heedless of th m. He's a stormy character, all right, but an unfocused one, and this well-cast adaptation of a memoir by a British TV executive is disjointed, only queasily humorous and too casual about its dark undercurrents. --By Richard Schickel There is a photo of Colin from the Miramax press kit (wearing a white jacket and carrying a walking stick). ***** Ladies, not to worry. Time rarely likes anything and Schickel has been criticized of late for his EWS article. EWS is Warner Bros. of Times-Warner.

From the LA Times (also from Mari) Sunday, July 11, 1999 WHATEVER. DAVID PUTTNAM / PRODUCER By STEVE HOCHMAN With 1981 best picture Oscar winner "Chariots of Fire" topping his resume, producer David Puttnam--Lord Puttnam of Queensgate, C.B.E.--has had a full life. But when he says "My Life So Far" (reuniting him with "Chariots" director Hugh Hudson) is his last as a producer, he's not retiring--at 58, he's got three Blair government appointments in addition to his House of Lords duties. CIVIL SERVANT: "This genuinely is my last film as a producer. I may executive-produce. But I love the jobs I've got with the government [including chair of the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts] and would be jolly sorry if someone took it away from me." TOGETHER AGAIN: "Working with Hugh Hudson again was a real treat. He's got a lovely sense of period, comes from a family not dissimilar to what we have in the film. He brings something extra--doesn't just direct a film, but lives it." FAMILY VALUES: "I found 'My Life So Far' as a very funny book ["Son of Adam" by Sir Denis Forman, based on his own eccentric family]. It's a family that hung together through all this craziness. I've had enough of films that pretend life is a series of simple choices." POSITIVELY: "What is inexplicable to me is how anyone with a brain would write, direct or participate in a film that promotes violence. They have a clear image of what a civil society is like. Why not spend your career promoting that vision rather than working against it?" RIGHTS AND WRONGS: "The tragedy is it's the irresponsibility of artists that invites the government to take a position on artists. Freedom from censorship is very recent and fragile, and if you abuse it, you lose it." SHARP SHOOTER: "Charlton Heston is a very nice man, but his position on gun control in this country [Great Britain] would be considered an obscenity. People would regard it as completely insane. We had two major killings here last year. People just don't use guns in Britain. There is no gun culture here, I'm happy to say." NEXT UP: "I have three scripts at Warner Bros. which I would executive-produce. One is with Anthony Minghella, 'Fade Out,' which I think will be made. One is with Taylor Hackford, called "Serenade,' and there's 'A Very Long Engagement,' which Hugh Hudson loves, a marvelous, bleak look at the First World War."

Don't like the TIME review....not a good sign. V. powerful magazine with humongous readership. Harvey better get in overdrive.

He says it is well cast and then kind of contradicts himself, I don't quite understand this review - still so far I have seen 3 for and 3 against, I think Bethan has got a point that it is going to depend on whether the individual reviewer likes this kind of film.

From today's Philadelphia Inquirer, in Marilyn Beck's syndicated column: FILMMAKER PUTTNAM QUITTING MOVIES FOR POLITICS Esteemed filmmaker David Puttnam is calling it a day. "There'll be no more movies for me," says the onetime Columbia studio chieftain, whose long credit list includes Chariots Of Fire, Midnight Express, The Mission, The Killing Fields, and Miramax's current whimsical drama about an eccentric Scottish family, My Life so Far. Speaking after a day's toil as a member of the British House Of Lords, Puttnam says: "It's become evident that the political work I'm doing cannot co-exist with the demands of making a movie. In one case or another, you're letting someone down." That realization hit him, he says, when he was in post-production on My Life So Far. He relates that, one day, he found himself "with an orchestra waiting for me on one side of town, and legislation awaiting me on the other"--as a vote was about to take place for which Puttnam, a whip, had to be present. Puttnam is glad to be going out on My Life So Far, which reunited him with Chariots Of Fire director Hugh Hudson--and which Puttnam considers "in many ways the nicest film I've ever done." Still, he does have five or six scripts in development at Warner Bros. Turning those projects over to others, "I suppose, will be like relinquishing my babies."

And here's the one you've been waiting for. The bellwether publication Mademoiselle (August issue). I think Mari sat at the newsstand all day! ;-) BEAUTIFUL DREAMERS My Life So Far--Starring Colin Firth If your vacation plans are less than postcard-worthy, this gorgeous movie may be your ticket. Set in a picturesque Highland castle in 1930s Scotland, it's the story of the MacIntosh family as seen through the eyes of ten-year-old Fraser. His father (Firth) is an inventor, but with less-than-astute business skills. the family's idyllic life is threatened when Fraser's successful uncle (Malcolm McDowell) returns for a visit with his fianc�e (Irene Jacob), with whom his father has fallen in love. Although the plot unwinds clumsily, see it for the charming glimpse it offers of manor life. (3 stars out of 4) ********** I think it bases its review on the clothing! ;-D

Huh! Can we have less of David Puttnam, and more of Colin please. Talk shows....I tend to agree, Evelyn,....."in my dreams"! But I think self-promotion is his Achilles' heel. His unassuming nature makes him attractively non-showbizzy, but it's a competitive world out there, and there are only a few decent roles available. If JE can do it, so can he! For someone who is "retiring" DP seems to be involved in some interesting projects. Anything for Colin? The Time review is odd...I thought the whole point about Edward was that he is a contradiction. "well-cast" is okay though! And even CultureVulure seems to approve of the cast!

(Bethan)isn't he known to be very reluctant to appear on chat shows? Indeed he is. (Allison) the picure of JF kissing CF (on firth.com)... Colin is wearing a rather unusual watch... Is anyone knowledgeable about watches? Good pic, isn't it? ;-) There is a Hugo Boss range of watches which look very much like this one: prices are about �350.

this well-cast adaptation of a memoir by a British TV executive is disjointed, only queasily humorous and too casual about its dark undercurrents. Further thoughts on this "review"....what dark undercurrents? Was Edward planning to murder Morris and incarcerate Heloise in a dungeon? Or poison his wife? And "queasily humorous"? This isn't "Something about Mary"...all the instances of humour I've read about seem disarming and rather innocent. And Denis Forman was Chairman/Managing Director of Granada Television (More than a mere exec!) "Disjointed"...well, perhaps it's intended to be meandering..it relects a child's perpective. Why can't we review reviewer? "Woefully inaccurate effort by Time's movie critic!" :-) There is a Hugo Boss range of watches which look very much like this one: prices are about �350. Present from Livia?

a Hugo Boss range of watches... about �350 Present from Livia? More than likely. I believe the watch he was seen wearing previously was a boring regular round white face affair.

Time Magazine's review doesn't bother me. How many people read anymore? As Eileen said, One positive Roger Ebert review outweighs one negative Culture Vulture review by at least a million to one! or almost any negative review (as long as they don't come in droves). I for one am waiting for Cosmopolitan's ;-) Another Kathie Lee gaffe - didn't know who MEM's husband was. You're right, she does no homework.

(Bethan) what dark undercurrents? Was Edward planning to murder Morris and incarcerate Heloise in a dungeon? Or poison his wife? Were those chapters missing from your copy of Son of Adam? ;-D Actually, most reviewers write about the movies they'd like to see as opposed to the film they did. I give no credence nor weight to culturevulture and his ilk. Anybody can set up a website and call themselves a critic. He's probably a chiropractor during the day.

Ugh! A movie opening in Cambridge doesn't necessitate it opening in Boston. THAT was my point. If a movie opens in Chicago, yes it will open in other suburban locations, but that's not how it works in Boston/Cambridge. Cambridge gets the artsy flicks and Boston gets the action flicks, because of the patronage. End of subject.

Given the timing relative to "Relative Values" and the start of "Three Days of Rain" previews, I'd keep an eye on this one. Producer Weldon's offices are at Suite 4, 11 The Aldwych, London WC2B 4DA (or they were a few years ago). Phone is 836-0186. From What's On London theatre news, 9 July: The No�l Coward Gala will top the year-long festivities. Held 24 October 1999 at the Drury Lane, the event will include star appearances from Richard Attenborough and Hugh Grant amongst others. It will be directed by Gillian Lynne with musical direction by Michael Reed and produced by Duncan C Weldon. All proceeds will be donated to the No�l Coward Scholarship Fund, a new charity set up for students applying to drama schools.

Strange, very strange, must be that Blair Witch;)

Time Magazine's review doesn't bother me. How many people read anymore? I'm not despondent...but unfortunately the people who read Time Magazine are probably are the people who would go to see MLSF. I don't exactly see this film drawing the under 25 crowd!!

But why else is MMcD getting mentioned when CF's the star? Maybe the Stanley Kubrick connection; there seems to be a revival of interest in The Clockwork Orange because of EWS. I do not care what lures people in to see MLSF as long as they do. 10 screens in the U.S. is awful, though. However, we do need to lighten up a little. At least MLSF is getting some attention and is being shown (so at least there should be a video release). Perhaps Miramax is going to a bigger push in the fall in Britain, because it is the proper time for a film like this - maybe they never expected MLSF to do well in the U.S. anyway, but their marketing strategy (!?!) pretty well ensures its failure at the box office there. I don't know why Toronto is being ignored (maybe it will be released in the fall here, oo). I only wish Miramax would be specific about where those 10 screens are. I called them in NYC this morning, and was put through to voice mail in the publicity dep't. I'll try again later in the week - how about every one else calling and being (pleasantly) insistent? On the plus side, the reviews have been mixed, at worst. The Time review mentioned Colin having the central role and his character as being stormy (more interesting than being bland). Nobody has said the film is awful and S & E did give it a great review. As far as ODB goes, at least we aren't seeing him, as the bad guy no less, in the awful Wild, Wild West or, god help us, Inspector Gadget. I wouldn't see those films even if CF had the lead.

Thanks to Mari for scouring the newstands and to Karen for typing up the articles. (Evelyn) but unfortunately the people who read Time Magazine are probably are the people who would go to see MLSF. I have to agree. I just breezed through my new 'Newsweek' and didn't see anything on MLSF yet. (Ann) He says it is well cast and then kind of contradicts himself, I don't quite understand this review My interpretation: the movie's plot/storyline is poor but the acting is good. I don't exactly see this film drawing the under 25 crowd!! The 'Ent Weekly' summer preview issue had MLSF pegged for the 'older, art-house' crowd. Perhaps the Mademoiselle review will nudge a few younger, art-house crowd members into the theater. Given the mixed reviews, what MLSF needs is publicity, publicity and more publicity. I hope there's a TV and print campaign kicking off in the very near future using the banner "Roger Ebert gives it thumbs up!" You've got to AC-cen-tuate the positive, E-lim-inate the negative...

10 screens in the U.S. is awful, though I didn't see your post until after I submitted mine, Lynda. It's ten cities, not ten screens--I sure hope it's playing in more than one theater in each city! As far as ODB goes, at least we aren't seeing him, as the bad guy no less, in the awful Wild, Wild West or, god help us, Inspector Gadget. I wouldn't see those films even if CF had the lead. Read a scathing review of WWW which said Kenneth Branagh's beard was more interesting than his character. Bombs away! I'll take "bad plot, good acting" reviews any time over this sort of thing (until such time as we can read "CF is terrific! Run to the theater!" Some day...)

OT: Got a lovely postcard in the mail from our dear Moon, who is in Urbino. She will be back with us in August, from what I gather.

I vow not to say another word about MLSF until I see it. The doom and gloom here is depressing the hell out of me. 'Nuf from me on that subject other than I'll start the new Spoiler topic on the 23rd.

Yes lets cheer up. It as least going somewhere - when I was in Singapore last year I was surprised how quickly they received films thus the same with MLSF and hopefully hear in Oz it will at least be in the main cities -

From the NY Daily News. I won't including most of the *boring* bits about the state of education, but at least we know others who attended the dinner after. 'Chariots' Big Exiting Biz One of the movie industry's most colorful figures is quitting the business. David Puttnam, the former head of Columbia Pictures and the Oscar-winning producer of "Chariots of Fire," says he has had it with Hollywood � especially now that it has gone tabloid. "What happened to newspapers in Britain is the same thing that happened to cinema in America," Puttnam said at the Box Tree restaurant Monday. "In the early 1980s, newspapers in Britain turned into comics and they started to celebrate stupidity.... "That's why he's calling it quits. But not before releasing "My Life So Far," a comedy he produced for Miramax about forgiveness that stars Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Malcolm McDowell. It opens July 23 and was screened Monday for a crowd that included Mastrantonio, Matthew Modine, Harvey Weinstein, British Ambassador to the United Nations Sir Jeremy Greenstock and his wife Lady Anne, and British Consul-General Sir Jeffrey Ling.

I see that Harvey brought out the Big British Guns of the NY Diplomatic Corps. Too bad the newspaper didn't mention Colin....but that happens when one doesn't attend one's premiere. Who is Matthew Modine? "Third fairy from the left"? Anyway...good for him for attending.

According to our Teletext, Stephen Fry is to star alongside David Suchet in a black comedy about Napoleon (Suchet) called Sabotage, filming is to start on August 1st in Spain, I guess RV must have been put on hold what with Colin doing Londinium and now this. SF is a very busy at the moment, I believe he has just finished something for the BBC, then L maybe RV and now S.

SF is to play Wellington.

...and SF was also reported to be at some party recently in N. London for the guy who wrote "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Universe." (Richard Curtis too!! Where is Colin? Why doesn't he go to parties like this? Especially as in his neck of the woods...enough moaning...) Thank you, Ann, for the update. Lots of Denise Richards in the news as "Drop Dead Gorgeous" had its premiere party the other night in LA. She is very young. Somehow I can't picture her as the Miranda Frayle character in RV. ****************** From Liz Smith's column in Newday today: GREAT FILM producers never die. They go to England and help the teaching profession! At least that's what David Puttnam will do. The man who gave us "The Killing Fields," "Midnight Express," "The Mission" and "Chariots of Fire" insists that his exquisite "My Life So Far," soon due from Miramax, and another collaboration with writer-director Hugh Hudson, will be his last movie. If so, it is a ravishing and moving swan song, an aching film about forgiveness, coming of age (whatever your age) and moving on ith life. It stars Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Colin Firth, Malcolm McDowell, Rosemary Harris, Irene Jacob and young Robert Norman. At the Box Tree restaurant after the film's premiere on Monday night, Puttnam was feted and talked about his new appointment in Tony Blair's government. His assignment: To make life better for Britain's teachers. "I will set about recruiting new ones and appreciating the existing ones." Not quite 60 years old, Puttnam says "My Life So Far" could be the title of his own autobiography, if he ever had the time or inclination to write one. But he is too busy looking ahead to bother looking back. Oh, one of the many pleasures of "My Life So Far" is another opportunity for Mastrantonio to reveal her beautiful singing voice. When this movie screened in Cannes, the audience broke into applause when she sang. (The versatile MEM also sings in John Sayles' dark and controversial "Limbo."). ***************** Oh, one of the many pleasures of "My Life So Far" Evidently, she didn't want to state the obvious!! And singing it isn't!!

I rather think this film is going to appeal to lady revieweres rather then the men (R. Ebert excepted), so far the opinions have been very varied but I am sure that if Miramax promoted it more vigorously then it could do well with people seeking an alternative to Star Wars etc. I must say I can't wait to see it and for the video to be released, just right to watch on a cold wintry Sunday afternoon!!

Where is Colin? Why doesn't he go to parties like this? Because he prefers to go to parties that HE chooses to go to. :-)

Ladies another review for MLSF by Christopher Null (who is he ,he obviously has no taste!!) at Deja.Com search Colin Firth, not good but at least it didn't get 1star - unquestionably awful. Thank goodness for Karen's above posting, it evens things up again.

(Ann W) Ladies another review for MLSF by Christopher Null (who is he ,he obviously has no taste!!) at Deja.Com search Colin Firth, not good but at least it didn't get 1star - unquestionably awful. Thank goodness for Karen's above posting, it evens things up again. Not to mention Liz Smith isjust a little more influential than Christopher Whoever. That being said, I can't say that I was thrilled with the creepy comment that little Fraser made about his mom servicing his dad and the "lubricious ministrations" and the laughter that seemed to follow Dad's (I imagine) reprimand. Wasn't my idea of funny because of the actual words the 10-year old boy used about and in front of his mother and father. It's okay for a boy to be curious, but at his age, he should kno better than to speak like that at the dinner table. Maybe it plays better in context, but I sincerely hope that there aren't too many bits like that. And I am no prude - but I would have been utterly mortified, and entirely unamused, if my son had spoken like that about me in front of my family.

I have a feeling that views on MLSF are going to be very polarised..loved it/didn't like it, depending on age and gender. I think a lot of males, under 25, just won't see the point of it...no special effects, no-one gets killed, no females in the buff, no action-driven plot. Unfortunately, they're the ones who write the reviews, on the Internet certainly, and in most movie mags. Those who like this film...Roger Ebert, Liz Smith...(and there was an outstanding Internet review by Harvey Karten a couple of weeks ago) really do love it. And so, it would seem, do fans of CF who have seen it. And being a fan can make you more (not less) critical (I've still not watched ATA through to the end!...does MPf die?) I'm very puzzled by Colin's absence from the Premiere (and where's Hugh Hudson?) He's always struck me as a team player (witness his support of SIL)...and it's not just his film -it's DP's, Harvey's, Hugh Hudson's etc...and so I really thought he'd make it. As it is, MLSF seems to have turned into the David Puttnam roadshow (am thoroughly fed up of reading about him and his busy (boring) new life!), with MEM starring, but Colin has let this happen. The only thing I can think of (with difficulty!) is that he must have the lead in Londinium and is needed on set. It can be very difficult to shoot on outside location in London...you really have to start about 4am, when it's often quite dull. The weather over the last few days has been magnificent...bright and sunny from daybreak, and absolutely perfect filming weather (Today we're back to dull, trying to rain). BUT, he's missed (I think) an ideal opportunity to promote himself in the US. Tut! And tut again! According to our Teletext, Stephen Fry is to star alongside David Suchet in a black comedy about Napoleon (Suchet) called Sabotage, filming is to start on August 1st in Spain, I guess RV must have been put on hold what with Colin doing Londinium Didn't SF say he only had one day's work in Londinium? But it certainly looks as though RV is no go for August. Londinium will have finished by then and so I hope that BJD will be up and running...Working Title told me it would shoot late summer (if it was this summer). They can't delay forever.

(AnnW) Christopher Null (who is he, he obviously has no taste!!) No and he has the attention span of a gnat. Have checked out his site and formed certain conclusions. He gives quite a bit of background info about himself in the "About the Critic" section. Is a computer dweeb, aged 27, and has written extensively (although mainly in the tech area). He's trying to become a screenwriter and was just quick-enough on the draw to that domain name. If you look at his reviews and ratings, he is soooo true to form for what he is. He gave "Go" five stars (perfection), The Matrix and Election (four and a half). This is one boy who waited in line to see TPM on the first day. The only aberration is The Winslow Boy, which he gave 4-1/2. But if you read the review, he has no real appreciation for it. Then I checked out his older review (when he was a wee bairn) for The English Patient. He has no patience. Can't take a longer movie. Talked about it i the same vein as Out of Africa, which he didn't like. From his review of Notting Hill: So far, sounds like an everyday comedy - but NOTTING HILL wins its real points in the details. Director Michell's London is every bit is real as a Beatles album. And, big surprise, it's the cast of completely unknown supporting characters that really carry the film. Special kudos to Rhys Ifans as Spike, William's pig of a roommate, who carries large chunks of the film on charm (or lack thereof) alone. I give him an early Best Supporting Actor nod. He must be joking?! piggish-loutish roomies up for Academy Awards?!? But it doesn't surprise me in the least. A gnat.

Lynda, I haven't seen the movie, but in the book "Son of Adam" the young boy is a voracious reader and works his way through The Encyclopedia of Ethics without really understanding a word of it. He thinks that prostitition is a good way of raising money for the local church, and thinks his mother could do it. It's all very innocent and the boy is of course growing up in an idyllic little world, detached from all outside influences.

Somehow I can't picture her as the Miranda Frayle character in RV. Definitely too young... unless they're goin to cast Leonardo Di Caprio, Matt Damon orMatthew McConaughey as Don Lucas. *** Would someone pl. enlighten me on who is Matthew Modine who attended the MLSF screening and dinner? Impt. enough to be listed with the elite. ***** ..the young boy is a voracious reader In the book Brendan is also v. precocious and inquisitive about s-e-x. ***** (Bethan)... MLSF seems to have turned into the David Puttnam roadshow .. True.Any day now I expect to read..."MLSF starring Sir David Puttnam" Wouldn't he love it!!

According to AnnD at VV, there is an excellent review for MLSF by Rex Reed in Yhe New York Observer - "The film has wit and charm .....COLIN FIRTH is especially skillful in exposing the unctuous Edward Pettigrew with edgy contrasts both as moral reformer and sweaty philanderer. Beautifully acted, superbly photographed and carefully directed.One of the best films so far in this awful year of sorry disappointments. See it and cheer." I AM CHEERING!

Go her to read the full review, you may have to go to Arts & entertainment and scroll down to a sub -heading (which I can't remember) but the article is by Rex Reed - http://www.observer.com/ Another older gentleman who likes it, seems you theory is right Bethan.

goes straight to the review,no searching necessary

Oh goodie, Ann! Is the NY Observer influential? (More influential than Christopher Null? :-). "See it and cheer!" "Two thumbs up"...hey, we're getting there. Forget the Intergnats. BTW if you read any account of a privileged upper class boyhood in the 1920's/30's (for example, Gavin Maxwell's "House of Elrigg") learning about sex from extensive reading of old-fashioned libraries seems to have been the norm....leading to much confusion!

I am really looking forward to MLSF coming to the UK, and to seeing how it will be reviewed. Can't see Mr. Tookey (Daily Mail) liking it but you never know he seemed to approve of Fever Pitch

(Evelyn) Would someone pl. enlighten me on who is Matthew Modine He has been around for several years, but I think he has never been in a blockbuster movie. I remember these, Gross Anatomy, Married to the Mob (with Michelle P), and Cutthroat Island (sp?) with Geena Davis. I have only seen Married to... . He is very tall and has blond hair. Photo of MM

YIPPEE! A positive review which not only mentions ODB, but points out his acting skill. (Bethan) Is the NY Observer influential? It's not on par with the NY Times, but Rex Reed has been around for ages and carries significantly more credibility than that gnat-come-lately, Ch. Null. Forget the Intergnats. Precisely. Heck, even I can post my own opinion and call myself a critic :-) Ebert and Reed have experience and influence. (Evelyn) Would someone pl. enlighten me on who is Matthew Modine Don't forget he starred in Kubrick's 'Full Metal Jacket.' He also starred (in the early '90s) in 'Memphis Belle,' a WW II movie. IMO he's terrific. He's been trying to break into indy directing/producing and is having a rough go of it. Perhaps that's why he's hangin' with Harv.

(Eileen)Re: The NY Observer..It's not on par with the NY Times, but Rex Reed has been around for ages The NY Observer carries a lot of weight in NY, not nationally. Actually, except for USA Today we don't have a national newspaper like UK.TIME Mag is as close as we get to a national news periodical.But the ads for MLSF will be able to use Rex Reed's comments along with Eibel.That is the best review yet...Thanks Ann *** Thanks for the info on Mathew Modine....still don't know him...but if he went to the MLSF screening....I like him.

Forget the Intergnats. LOL!! Brilliantly coined, Bethan. Exactly what I had decided. I'm not reading anymore of these so-called Internet movie critics. In the future, I'm only reading *paid* journalists. The Fatman and Myra have spoken. ;-D Thank you, AnnW, for picking up on the latest. "unctuous" - here we go again, although that has to be better than "lech."

OK...Here's a Biggy... The HOLLYWOOD REPORTER (The Industry Paper) "My Life So Far" is a gem. Magical and wise, witty and sentimental, this film from producer David Puttnam and director Hugh Hudson is one of the most engaging pictures about British family life since John Boorman's 1987 autobiographical tale "Hope and Glory." Miramax Films may have a boxoffice hit here that could cross over from the specialty market into mainstream venues. This film marks a triumphant reunion for Puttnam and Hudson, who collaborated on the 1981 Oscar-winning best picture "Chariots of Fire." Right from the opening shot -- of a bright-eyed baby grinning in a crib -- the film casts its spell. Within moments, an enchanted world in the misty Scottish Highlands opens up to the viewer. Like "Hope and Glory," "My Life So Far" derives from personal history. The film is based on a memoir, "Son of Adam," by British television executive Denis Forman. He relates the story of a tumultuous year in the life of a wide-eyed 10-year-old in which he sees his world and his family change forever. Young Fraser Pettigrew -- played with charm and spunk by newcomer Robert Norman -- lives on a bucolic Scottish estate in the early 1930s where a storybook castle named Kiloran House crowns a verdant hill. This kingdom of animals and crazy gizmos is benignly ruled by Fraser's eccentric inventor-father Edward (a buoyant Colin Firth). "It's just bedlam -- like a zoo!" grouses Fraser's more practical-minded Uncle Morris (a debonair Malcolm McDowell), making one of his frequent visits to the ancestral home. It is indeed bedlam, but what a place to grow up! Edward, a lover of Beethoven and hater of jazz, forever pursues hopeless schemes and a passionate belief in the medicinal properties of sphagnum moss. He has turned the estate into Europe's only moss factory, much to the distress of Uncle Morris, who would plant Norwegian pine for the publishing industry. Indeed, Uncle Morris hints darkly he will throw Fraser's family off the estate once he inherits it. Holding Kiloran House together are twin towers of feminine strength: the family matriarch, Gamma Macintosh (a serenely handsome Rosemary Harris), and Edward's wife, Moira (lovely Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio). Into this idyllic world comes Uncle Morris' "child bride," the utterly beautiful and utterly exotic Heloise (Irene Jacob), a French musician who brings with her a whiff of continental sophistication. What's more, she likes jazz. Everyone falls in love with Heloise, especially young Fraser. Unbeknownst to the others, however, the highly moralistic Edward has also succumbed to her charms, which nearly leads to disastrous consequences. The story is narrated by the 10-year-old whose sensibilities grow more adult as the year skips by. Events force him to alter his image of his seemingly God-like father whereby Edward becomes more of a flesh-and-blood man and less of a role model for his adoring, impressionable son. British playwright Simon Donald has crafted a wry screenplay from Forman's memoir, filled with surprises and rich in the details of extraordinary lives. Donald, Hudson and Puttnam along with the terrific cast make certain the story contains no villains. People may behave in less than perfect ways, but they remain true to their passions. Young Norman's performance is a miracle, but the entire cast is a complete delight. This extends to even smaller roles such as Tcheky Karyo's "Emperor of the Air," an aviator who literally drops onto the estate to amaze the Pettigrews, and Kelly MacDonald as the eldest daughter who is bewitched by the Emperor. French cinematographer Bernard Lutic fills the screen with the beauty of misty Scotland and a country house that designer Andy Harris has turned into an ancient family seat. One senses the Pettigrew ancestors still inhabit this dwelling whose large rooms remain somehow homelike. Young Fraser's childhood is filled with enchantment -- the wild man lurks in the nearby woods, devils allegedly dwell in the attic, bizarre inventions (all designed by Alain Chennaux) clutter the lawns. But most fantastic of all are the secret books and drawings of naked women belonging to Fraser's late grandfather, which the young lad devours without fully comprehending their implications. Hanging over this idyllic world is the specter of the coming world war that will forever shatter its splendid isolation. This specter gives the comic events a gentle scent of nostalgia for what has been lost. Such innocence could never have lasted. But this magical story celebrates the memory of that innocence as few films have done. ***** OK gang....now sit back , smell the roses, bring on the Chardonnay....we're on Easy Street:-))

Thankyou for that Evelyn, what a lovely thing to wake up to. When the reviews are good boy are they good. Hope thye keep coming.

WOW! Thank you Evelyn. That's a real gem, and the Hollywood Reporter no less. Just a thought...maybe Miramax did have a strategy in releasing MLSF at about the same time as EWS. From what I've read of EWS (there's quite a build up here at the moment), irrespective of whether it's good/bad/brilliant, it's a disturbing picture of a destructve marriage, featuring explicit sex. MLSF on the other hand ultimately celebrates the joys of a good lasting marriage/relationship and the joy of innocence in childhood, and only hints at sex, does not show it. Perhaps Harvey saw MLSF as a potentia counterbalance to EWS? Perhaps...

Yes, thank you Evelyn (and belated happy birthday)! RE MLSF scheduling: I wonder if there is method behind Miramax's madness? They must be planning to draw the distinction between MLSF and EWS. Its scheduling either means that they had that in mind as a strategy, or they just thought "lets get this thing out there, when is there a spot we don't want to waste on anything worthwhile?" I had feared the latter but these reviews have definitely changed my mind. Has there been any EWS backlash yet? Shaun Usher in the Daily Mail today has a review of EWS. He says that it is great work of art etc but is it enjoyable and do we care about these people or believe in them for long? What has the reaction in the States been? Is there a window for Miramax to show up the contrast with MLSF?

Bethan! We should go into business together! I had a telephone call in the middle of posting mine, so I did not see yours. We must have been typing the same thoughts at the same time.

From AICN: Marty McFly looks at MY LIFE SO FAR Hola folks, Harry here and I'm here to introduce Marty McFly's review of MY LIFE SO FAR, the latest film from the director of CHARIOTS OF FIRE. Sounds like an interesting cast, though I'll hold off any anticipation till more reviews come in on it. But for now... Here's that hoverboard kid floating on the power of love.... Hey! Marty McFly here, and I'm feeling pretty good right now since it looks like Back To The Future 4 will happen. Anyways I'm back from seeing another delightful little indie gem called My Life So Far. I've been hearing a good buzz on the film and if it ever opens around your local theaters, you should check it out. The film stars many talented actors like Colin Firth, Malcom McDowell, Mary Elizabeth Mastrontonio, Irene Jacob, and Tcheky Kayro (sp?). It's based on a novel I never read and can't remember the name of. Sorry. The story is told all through the eyes of a little boy living in Scotland named Fraser. He lives with his father, mother, and many siblings on a huge estate and he narrates the film as a teenager, looking back on his life so far. I've never seen this young little actor who plays the boy but he is very natural. As he becomes older, he learns about many things in life. He learns about love when his uncle (played by Mr. Alex DeLarge himself, McDowell) brings home his younger fiance (Jacob) and the young boy falls for her. This young woman also captures the eye of Fraser's father (played by Firth) which causes trouble in his relationship with his wife (played by Mast ontonio). Brendan Gleeson, who I just saw today also in the incredibly entertaining Lake Placid, is underused in a very small role. It's a great coming of age story and it has just the right blend of comedy and drama. The film was directed by Hugh Hudson, who most of you know directed Chariots Of Fire. He received an Oscar nomination for that film and don't be surprised if this film gets some Oscar attention when the 2000 Oscars come along. ************ Indie film" A novel? So he got a few facts wrong. But Oscar mentions!!! Wow!! And this from a site that caters to the TPM crowd. What a coup!!

Great news to wake up to (the NY Observer and The Hollywood Reporter reviews) !!! And mentions of a "bouyant" and "skillful" Colin! I'm glad to know that I misread the dinner scene clip. The film does sound delightful. BTW, I got dragged to Arlington Road last night. Predictable plot, acting only so-so (thus neutralising the ending), the inevitable car chase, no Colin.

Just missed your post, Karen. More good news. Thanks. BTW, what is does TPM and AICN mean?

Sorry about the acronyms, Lynda. TPM is The Phantom Menace and AICN is the Ain't-It-Cool News website run by Harry Knowles. BTW, if you go to the review, you can leave feedback. Haven't checked back to see if there is any yet, but it is usually quite raunchy. To participate, you have to register and think up a silly name. Well, the latter is not a requirement, but you wouldn't want to post with your real name. Maybe I'll change mine to Passionata... ;-D AICN Review

CF's fame is spreading....at least in Sweden. Lisbeth's timeline site is the 17th most popular web site there. http://findanisp.homepage.com/top100/by/country/se.html

Great minds think alike, Allison! Isn't Harry Knowles "Ain't it cool site" the one which can makes or break movies and is much feared in Hollywood? Hope Harvey notices the word Oscar and steps up promotion!

Re Matthew Modine -- And don't forget "Birdy" with Nicholas Cage. Modine is a good, sensitive actor. The MLSF reviews are grand -- from Liz Smith to Ebert to The Hollywood Reporter to a young groovy kid on AICN. I think we can relax a bit, and just look forward to seeing it ourselves. (Though I am hoping the NY Times is favorable). WHOOPEE!!! Murph

Harry himself hasn't jumped on the bandwagon yet. In his preface to Marty McFly's report, he said he was reserving judgment until more reviews were in. Thought he made up his own mind. And whose reviews?

Thanks for the reviews ladies. I can't wait for MLSF to get to Australia. Please please please let it come to a theatre near me - anywhere within 100 miles if OK. I'd like to add my favourable opinion of Matthew Modine. I haven't seen all his movies, but have liked him in those I have; especially "Memphis Belle" and "The Band Played On".

Good to hear from you Murph on Spring...we enjoy all the creative additions to your website....now, get back to work!!:-) **** I must be living in a cave...not to have heard of Mathew Modine.... But if he showed up at the MLSF screening....the guys a prince!!

(Bethan) Hope Harvey notices the word Oscar and steps up promotion! Good thought; if the "heavies" were to use it, perhaps he would. He'd better step it up anyway--only 8 days until it opens in NY/LA. Murph--I'll race you to the newsstand for the NY Times on Sunday (I buy mine right next to that famous ice cream store you love). There had better be a stellar write-up in this week's edition. This is Maslin's kind of movie!!

From The Independent: `STAR WARS' DEGREE IS MORE FACT THAN FICTION YOU'VE SEEN the movie, bought the light sabre, now do the degree: Star Wars studies is an official university course. Darth Maul, Skywalker's paternity and the fate of the universe have been included in what is thought to be the world's first degree in science fiction. The University of Glamorgan in Wales has decided to include the study of Captain Kirk's multi-racial crew, little green men and the X Files in a new degree aimed at tempting more students into science. Interest in the BSc in Science and Science Fiction has been phenomenal, and the university expects the 100 places to be filled when the course begins in September. More than a third of the inquiries have been from the US, with others from Australia and Russia. But as well as studying the link between science fiction and science fact, UFOs and futurology, the students will have to complete modules in maths, physics, astronomy and chemistry. Still, the coursework appears to be a sci-fi buff's dream, with students expected to watch the Star Wars trilogy "to explore modern mythology" and sit through Star Trek re-runs "to understand the ideals of utopian societies". It is just one of the latest degrees that veers away from the traditional. There are modules in stand-up comedy at the University of Kent at Canterbury, perfumery at Plymouth and gambling at Salford. Others include herbal medicine, brewing and football management. The University of Leeds even offers a module on how to change a double duvet cover as part of an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification). But the leader of the Glamorgan sci-fi course, Dr Mark Brake, said the curriculum was not frivolous. "Science fiction is an integral part of delivering science fact to people," he said. "The world of science fiction can be a good model for theoretical science in an imagined environment. Films like Star Wars are modern morality tales with strong elements of good versus evil. "Equally, the growing interest in UFOs indicates a vacuum that religion has not been able to fill and these are themes we will also deal with." Dr Brake said students would be expected to produce clear, strong work on these issues. "Put it this way - they won't be watching 2001 and listening to Pink Floyd. "Well, not in my lectures. I can't abide Floyd." *********** Can a doctorate in Firthology be too far off? ;-D

I hope everyone (even the lurkers among us) is going to post at the Ain't It Cool News site. BTW, did you read the Feb.25/99 review posted there. It was so-so, but reserved final judgement by referring to MLSF as a "work-in-progress". The review also singled out CF's performance: "Colin Firth is especially good as the flawed father figure". A belated welcome to you, Cathey, from another newbie.

That's Harry Knowles site, he's one of our Austin guys. He was on Gene Siskels show recently and is rumored to have his own tv movie review show in the works! http://www.aint-it-cool-news.com

Just a little reminder for those who missed it or those who don't get the show outside the U.S. You can hear the Roger Ebert and Norman Mark reviews of MLSF at the Siskel & Ebert website. You will need to download the Shockwave player to hear it. Only took 5 minutes and it plays beautifully. Here's the url: http://tvplex.go.com/buenavista/siskelandebert/

STAR WARS' DEGREE IS MORE FACT THAN FICTION Puh-leeze. (Karen) Can a doctorate in Firthology be too far off? ;-D Now you're talking! We'd all graduate (as Bullwinkle would say) summa crappa crappa ;-P

Not surprised about the ever-growing popularity of pop-cult. film courses. In college, I took an entire course on Blaxploitation movies (Shaft, Cleopatra Jones, Blacula etc...) I wouldn't mind a Firthology course, though. What might the syllabus look like? FIRTH 101: The Man, the Look, the Legend Week 1: -lecture: "Intro to Colin Firth, or...Why all the Hype?" -film: Pride and Prejudice (and later....) -Week ?? : lecture: "After all, He's only Human" film: The Playmaker

Week 2: Making a Career off the Fiennes Bros. films: The English Patient and SiL

Week? ONE WEEK ONLY? Ladies, ladies... there's years and years of material to study there... sigh

Week 3: The Role of Animals Film: The Hour of the Pig

My Life So Far is definitely not going to be shown at the Edinburgh Film Fest. The entire program (programme) is now available and it's not there. Listings will also be in the Sunday Mail.

Thanks for the tip on AICN, Karen. Another excellent way of indicating support for MLSF is via the IMDB. If you register (takes about 24 hrs to receive confirmation) you can then give your own review (viewers comments) and give a score out of ten. I often check out movies this way (and am planning to give MLSF an unbiased 10!) Colin needs some promotion/support here....no-one seemed to notice him in SIL, and even for The Advocate I noticed that it was the supporting actors who got the praise, not him. Def nitely some need to mould opinion and give some highly biased support! I'm beginning to feel that the opinion making business in movies is entirely male dominated. In the UK, all the film critics are male. The Telegraph has just got a new critic - he introduced himself by saying that his youth was shaped by Star Wars! Spare me, please! I read somewhere that MLSF finished its shoot on 31/6/97....which means that Colin must have got married during the shoot. I remember reading that the shoot was prolonged for a few weeks because Hugh Hudson injured his hip, and also an interview with Colin mentioned that he was packing to dash off somewhere for something that couldn't be cancelled. Look out for an extra sparkle in his eye! Loch Fyne is an ideal place for a honeymoon! Also read that we'll get MLSF in the UK in the autumn. J-e-e-ze, what an incredible wait! The problem with MLSF is that it's not Son of Trainspotting or a low-life gangster movie and no-one gets tortured or raped. Maybe, if it's successful, there may be some interest in this more gentle genre of film, and SLOW (very similar - comedy/drama, young boy, relationship with father figure, married man attracted to other woman, beautiful setting) will finally be released! Hope springs eternal! Any news of Londinium? I think this one will be okay. I was impressed by "American Gothic" which Mike Binder directed, and these days I don't like much (anything?):-) And any news of further casting for "The Lion in Winter"? I know Anthony Hopkinns (20 years too old, thought he'd retired anyway) has the lead, but there's still his son, Richard the Lionheart. And with Pat O'Connor directing...

Hi Bethan, is that definite that we are to see MLSF in the Autumn because actually I think that is the right time for this kind of film, if it is definite then I won't keep bothering Miramax. I can wait until the Autumn, you never know because of the Scotland connection it may get a Royal Premiere especially because of Lord Puttnam's high profile. BTW Karen can you please advise me, I am dying to post a comment at AICN but having registered or so I thought I have not received a password, to enable me to ake a comment, how long does it take before you receive the password, it says you will receive it within minutes in email but I registered yesterday and have received nothing. Anyway congratulations to everyone who has made a comment, we Firthfans must pull together and we certainly have here.

B+ for MLSF from E Online in their capsule review, pretty good review "an above par ensemble cast". Not bad.

Murph has posted the NY Times display ad for MLSF from tomorrow's paper: http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/mlsfad.html Colin looks a little dorky IMO. (No tomatoes, please) But Ebert's review figures prominently.

Karen: I was just going to tell all of you about it the ad, but you beat me to it!!! I agree on the dorkiness. It looks to me like the three pictures are publicity stills. Murph

Murph, now could you fix those things I mentioned? ;-D Here's the full writeup from E!Online: So Far, so good. Charming and funny true-life memoir of a lad (Norman) growing up in the 1920s at his family's baronial manor in the Scottish highlands. Norman's dad (Firth) is an inventor and as eccentric as they come. His million-dollar idea is to harvest peat moss found on the estate for use in stanching bloody wounds. Mumsy Mastrantonio and grandmother Harris tend to more practical household matters. The fine family balance is upset when rich Uncle Morris (McDowell) and his hubba-hubba fianc�e eloise (Jacob) drop in for a visit. Although a trifle slow in spots, the ensemble cast is way above par. That, and magnificent on-location camerawork, make for a bonnie good show! Thanks, Ann for finding this.

A wee bit dorky, but not too bad! I like the overall poster and the sentiments expressed. No-one seems to have found fault with the acting so far! Am in total chaos at the moment as we are having major alteration work to the house, and go on holiday next week (I hope!) Checking out Drool calms my nerves! :-) BTW although critical reaction to EWS seems fair, internet reviews seem very hostile.."Boring...wanted money back!" Maybe MLSF could be the alternative attraction!

It's probably hostile because the film is not at all what you would have expected from the prerelease hype. Hardly anything in that film was boring (although they could've cut out that whole bit with the daughter whose father had just died - laughable and the audience did laugh). Film was exact opposite: totally mesmerizing. I have never seen such an intent audience.

Thanks, Murph. CF looks handsome, nonetheless, and very young. And at least he is featured prominently in the ad and obviously the star. Hope Miramax adds some quotes from the other good reviews in its later advertising.

I'm afraid to say that the poster bears no resemblance to Colin at all, I would hardly know it was him, good pictures of IJ & MEM though. BTW will there be a review in the NY Times tomorrow or do we have to wait until next week?

(Bethan) I read somewhere that MLSF finished its shoot on 31/6/97....which means that Colin must have got married during the shoot. ...which would explain that wedding hairdo criticized by some... Dorky, shmorky! Agree the pic doesn't do him justice but am too busy reveling in his name listed first in the credits, not to mention all the favorable reviews. After being prepared for the worst (and I'm not alone here), am v. excited to see sites and critics with wide audiences coming in with good things to say--esp. about the cast!! Thanks to a gracious, neighborly Firthfan, am going to see MLSF next Sat. in NYC. Whoopee! Will definitely post my (as Bethan would say) 'unbiased' views.

I have been following the dreadful news about JFK jr. This family seems to be beset by tragedy.

Yes, I have been watching CNN. It really is very, very sad news.

Re: the MLSF Poster...(thank you Murph!) Agree: a. Grrreat to see Colin in leading role.(Must be postive first) b. He looks weird...like a cadaver..would not have recognized him. c. Is this being shown in only two art-house theatres? I thought it was going to be expanded like AMC and Hollywood Theatres throughout the city. Angelika Film Center is on Hudson St. in Soho nr. Miramax corporate office. ***** Ann, I think there will be another Premiere for you to attend. Sir David will make sure that MLSF is an event.

ATTENTION; Wish Colin a Happy New Year!! Just a reminder that the Box Office at the Donmar for 3 DOR will open on Monday July 19.No booking fee from the Box Office.Tickets are 24 UKP and 20.UKP telephone: 171-369-1732 (Country code precedes....in the US it's 011-44-) Spring Reunion Saturday January 15, 2000 Evening performance with dinner preceding at 5:30 at the Luna Nuova. Lizza and I will take dinner reservations right after New Year's. Don't miss out...book early. Will keep in touch via Springfolks.

Think you mean Tribeca. ;-D Thought I'd do it before the P person does. BTW, where did you get your shoes? ;-D

And, yes it is very sad, Bethan. Hard to believe this is happening to that family again.

The Sunday Boston Globe has nothing on MLSF opening this week. Did I hear the date has now been pushed back to Aug. 6? Was on vacation in the wilds of Maine last week and am completely out of touch:-) The Boston media has been going nonstop with the JFK Jr. story for the past 36 hours, it being a local as well as national story. They still haven't found the fusillage. Very very sad... shades of Diana.

(Susan) Did I hear the date has now been pushed back to Aug. 6? Was on vacation in the wilds of Maine last week Welcome back Susan...we've missed you. Karen is our MLSF- release -dates- pro..but I believe it's NY & LA next week and Boston should be in the next expansion on August 6th.Lucky you!! No telling when the rest of us will get it.

Colin looks a little dorky As much as I hate to admit it, I have to agree. Never mind, the reviews make up for it and I'm sure the movie will be firthabulous. I hate to wish my life away, but I can't wait for it to get here. My heart goes out to the Kennedys. How much can one family take?!

We got the official "starts Friday" ad in the LA Times today. Yippee! Unfortunately it contains the same somewhat dorky picture of Colin and it's only opening in three theatres but I finally feel like I can let out the breath I've been holding. I was half expecting another delay after all this waiting. I hope it won't be long until it opens worldwide so that all Firth-o-philes can partake!

Amen to that

Glad to hear it is finally opening somewhere, when are you going Jana and will you report back. The Donmar had an advertisement in the Sunday Times yesterday advertising their coming Seaon, with the photo of CF,JM &DM., (a definite improvement on above poster) and mentioning that booking opens today. Have got my Visa ready!!!

I'm going to try for this weekend, although my schedule is pretty full and the limited number of theatres where MLSF is showing makes it tough. I will go as soon as I can though, and definitely report back!

No write-up in NY Times yesterday (had two extensive articles about Kubrick and EWS, which they didn't like). Will check during the week and next Sunday. The ad was there, though. Good size. Rest assured, ladies, he doesn't look that dorky (or dead, 'heavy Evie'). IMO some of the subtle shading got lost in the scanning. Edward's piercing eyes do grab your attention (in my unbiased opinion, of course). There was this bit in the "opening this week" section: Hugh Hudson's film is an affectionate memoir based on the autobiography "Son of Adam" by Sir Denis Forman, a bold Scottish boy who seduces or is seduced by his uncle's French fiancee. With Colin Firth, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Irene Jacob, Malcolm McDowell, Rosemary Harris, Tcheky Karyo and Robert Norman. PG-13, 1 hr, 33 min. (Evelyn) Is this being shown in only two art-house theatres? The ad lists an "exclusive engagement" in two theaters. Will check the internet listings on Friday to see if it's anywhere else. We're seeing it downtown. (Karen) BTW, where did you get your shoes? ;-D LOL!

FYI--Murph has added to the scan of the NY Times ad from the one run yesterday. There's a close up of ODB which illustrates what I said about the shading. Here's the link: http://www.geocities.com/%7Emurphyat65/mlsfad.html Thanks, Murph!

Don't you agree though that his mouth is all wrong?

Agree it's not his best smile (the best are Colin smiles, not Edward smiles). I have seen him use this pursed-lip sly grin before. It usually brings out his dimples. If you look carefully in this picture, you might see one on his right side (it's clearer in the print version but one has to really look).

I really feel for the artist...a good likeness of Colin is almost impossible to get, even when one is very familiar with the Beloved Chameleon (remember, he doesn't HAVE a likeness!) I should know. But with perseverance and a good eye, one can get closer to him than THAT...tough, but possible. Too bad the effort wasn't made (or someone was willing to settle for less)(yuk).

(Eileen) Rest assured, ladies, he doesn't look that dorky (or dead, 'heavy Evie') Dead or Alive...it's a lousy picture....worse than the painting at Pemberley in P&P. (KJArt)I really feel for the artist. This is a painting ? I thought it was a photo. That explains it... It's not even a "Colin-look-a-like". More like a composite.

This is "OT" as we say on the Firthlist (off-topic), but I think that most folks here will be interested. Jennifer Ehle will go from one play to another this summer. When the Donmar run of TRT comes to an end, she will begin rehearsals at the National Theater for a new production of Maxim Gorky's Summerfolk, in a new version by Nick Dear. She will play Varvara. Others in the cast include Raymond Coulthard, who played Frank Churchill in the TV "Emma" and Rupert Douglas in TEP, and Victoria Hamilton, who played Mrs. Col. Forster in P&P. Previews begin on August 27th with an official opening set for Septembe 3. The National is booking seats through October 2, but it's not clear whether that is the final performance or simply the end of the National's booking period. If TRT does go to a commercial theater in the winter, and then goes to New York as is being discussed, Jennifer will have appeared on stage for over a year. We shouldn't get any more complaints about lack of work! I just hope she gets enough R&R between engagements. I got the info from the London Theater Guide, http://www.londontheatre.co.uk/indexframe.html and click on "News" in the upper right-hand corner and then "Listings>National Theater>Olivier."

Thanks for the info, Anne. Sounds like Jennifer is following in her mum's footsteps in pursuing the stage rather than screen... at least right now. Re: MEM on Regis & Kathie Lee -- IMO a better clip they could have shown is the scene in which she confronts Edward about his "infidelity." Good acting from her there, and Colin is in it as well;-) Re: the "dorky" look -- I think that expression is taken from the last scene, in which Edward walks in on Fraser drinking the milk in the brandy snifter and smoking the cigar. That's why he looks kinda lovingly bemused.

I've got my tickets for 3DOR on 15 January "YEAH". I'm very excited. How did everyone else get on?

Thanks Anne. Evelyn, perhaps, you should start looking into working for the airlines so you can get an employee discount. ;-D (Susan) a better clip they could have shown is the scene in which she confronts Edward about his "infidelity." Good acting from her there, and Colin is in it as well;-) Just the mere fact that Colin would be in it already makes it a better clip. That's why he looks kinda lovingly bemused. Oh, is that what it is? But how do we account for the way his hair looks on the left side? I did see the real print ad in the paper. Maybe when they do a full-page color ad for the Oscar noms (I know I'm dreaming), they will have fixed it.

Cathey, I have my tickets too, look forward to seeing you on the 15th. Just for good measure I am also going on the 18th December, to wish our DB a Happy Christmas. It also sounds as if my hubby and I will be making another trip to London to see Jennifer in Summerfolk, I just hope it won't be an anti-climax after TRT, which was spell-binding. I wonder if she does prefer stage work to TV and filmwork?

(Karen) But how do we account for the way his hair looks on the left side? Don't you think that what makes his hair look puffy is actually MEM's dark clothes behind him? (Ann W) ...I am also going on the 18th December... I am going to just miss you, Ann, as I am seeing 3DOR on December 16; I couldn't talk my family into a January trip. Anyway I am looking forward to seeing London in its Christmas finery. What a wonderful Christmas gift, but I regret not meeting you all on January 15.

Thanks for the info, Anne. Sounds like Jennifer is following in her mum's footsteps in pursuing the stage rather than screen... at least right now. True. But don't forget she has "A Taste of Sunshine" with Ralph Fiennes which is being screened at the Venice Intl. Film Festival on Sept. 1st and at the Toronto Intl. FF also in September. Thank you Anne Rosen. You are v. welcomed here and hope you will join us on the 15th. ****** (Cathey) 3 DOR Tickets: How did everyone else get on? Box Office must have been inundated this AM. There are 17 who say they will be attending...10 already have tickets...that I know of. Great news Cathey....wish Lynda could join us...Everybody, pl. give us reports whenever you go. We love to hear about your experience. **** Do so wish I could go to see Jennifer in Sept.I just can't keep going every three months!! But Ann will just have to represent all of us....

"Another Country" is on Film Four at 8pm today for those in the UK who take Film Four (not me, sadly)

I'm happy to hear that MLSF is really opening at last! In many ways it's quite an achievement for any movie starring a relatively unknown (ie not Sean Connery) British actor to open in the US. So whatever happens to MLSF has to be good news. A good thing Colin's surname begins with 'F'.....he appears to have first billing in the credits, but it's actually alphabetical! The marketing emphasis seems to have moved away from "young boy coming-of-age" to adult relationships. Sounds like Jennifer is following in her mum's footsteps in pursuing the stage rather than screen... at least right now. One thing that strikes me is that most of our good actresses work mainly on stage (or radio). Same applies to actors as well. Decent acting roles on screen are few and far between.

(Bethan)Decent acting roles on screen are few and far between. Sadly, especially for women.However, screen jobs pay better, for shorter lenth of time...but must be boring to do. Jennifer has said in interviews that she likes to take women's roles that are a challenge. (Lizzie is still her favorite!!Doesn't think she did justice to her)

Re the ad: Don't you think those three pictures were publicity stills just hanging around? I thought MEM had shorter, curlier hair for the film, and Irene's hair is a bit too perfect as well. Though Colin looks like he is wearing a costume. On the NY theaters: I seem to remember that SIL opened first in only two or three NY theaters before going into wider release the next week. The choice of an uptown and down one is fairly normal. In fact, some art films only open in one theater. Murph

OT: Jennifer Ehle and the NT Ensemble 99 If you are interested in who else in the NT Ensemble 99, go to http://www.nt-online.org/information/ensemble.html It is a truly extraordinary group of people, who will be moving through this set of 6 (?) plays. In addition to the names Anne R mentioned, there is also Simon Russell Beale, Henry Goodman, Roger Allam, Denis Quilley, David Bamber, and Clive Rowe. Henry Goodman is doing Shylock at the moment and has gotten very good reviews. (I first saw him in "Angels in America" as Roy Cohn.) SRB is one the British Stage's most talented actors, and he's been tearing up the stage as Candide and in Money. If Jennifer E. is joing the Ensemble, she couldn't do much better these days.

From today's NY Daily News: Firth Talks About His 'Life So Far' By NANCY MILLS Special to The News You either love him or you hate him. Three years ago, Colin Firth was anointed heartthrob-in-chief after a terrific performance in the A&E miniseries "Pride and Prejudice." Then, in this year's "Shakespeare in Love," the 38-year-old Brit turned hateful as the man who comes between Gwyneth Paltrow and her true love, Will Shakespeare. Now, in the coming-of-age story "My Life So Far," which opens Friday, Firth is lovable and hateful at the same time. This pleases him. "A character who's straight down the line, with no twists or quirks, is boring," he says. "You've got to have something to play. I like to watch stories where you're sure of what you're seeing � and then you're not." At first, Firth's character � a charmingly eccentric inventor � seems to be the ideal dad. But charm can be a great deceiver, as his 10-year-old son discovers. When the boy's uncle (Malcolm McDowell) brings his young fiancee (Irene Jacob) to visit, unexpected passions surface. "Charming boyishness is dangerous to those close to it," Firth says. "If you're fundamentally immature, you'll be incapable of self-denial in real relationships, and you'll end up hurting the people around you." Firth is getting tired of playing hopelessly romantic figures. "I really don't want to go out and make the moony faces anymore," he says. "In your 20s, you're given to do that endlessly. It's not that I feel old and jaded, but there's a point where you realize you're moving on. "I suppose I've been considered someone who looks like a leading man. I have a kind of neutrality, physically, which has helped me. I'm the right height � 6-foot-1 � to play a lot of different things. My hair color can be changed. So can anybody's � but I also have a face that can be made to look a lot better or a lot worse, depending on how I want it to look." No matter how he looks onscreen, Firth isn't over the hill just yet. He has a 28-year-old wife, Livia Guiggioli, an Italian production assistant he met while making A&E's "Nostromo" miniseries. And he has a 7-year-old son, Will, with actress Meg Tilly, his co-star in "Valmont," with whom he lived for four years. He works constantly � although mostly in modestly-budgeted productions, including "Circle of Friends," "A Thousand Acres" and "The English Patient." "I wouldn't do something just for a big paycheck," he says. "I'd have to have a very good reason. I don't despise money. I think if one isn't too greedy, you can do good work, make a good living, have a proper personal life and be proud of what you do and not be destroyed by it." Firth has two films due out later this year: a romantic comedy, "Fever Pitch," from Nick Hornby's memoir about soccer obsession, and "The Secret Laughter of Women," about a science-fiction writer. Firth decided to be an actor at 14. "I liked performing," he says, "and it got me a lot of attention. It was fun. But it didn't immediately enter into my head that I'd actually try it as a career. "All I knew about it was that it was impossible, and no one gets any work." ************ OK, seems to be padded with old quotes and some of the facts are wrong. But if you want to print or keep, here's the url: Daily News Article

Firth is getting tired of playing hopelessly romantic figures. Oh, yes. And as everybody knows he's played myriads and myriads of those, of course.

Firth has two films due out later this year: a romantic comedy, "Fever Pitch," from Nick Hornby's memoir about soccer obsession, and "The Secret Laughter of Women," about a science-fiction writer. Aha! Do I detect some light at the end of the tunnel. Some of this stuff is re-cycled, but some is new...and I've never seen the science fiction angle mentioned before. Ever the optimist. Off topic-ish, but there was an interesting news item on TV about an archaelogical dig in Winchester, where they are hoping to uncover the remains of King Alfred, last King of Wessex. The dig is being carried out by American volunteers (from an organisation called American Earth Works) who are all spending their annual vacation in Winchester. They seem to be having a great time, and are all very exited about the potential discovery. On general dumbing down in the UK, I noticed that in reviews of "Sense and Sensibility" shown on UK TV, the Telegraph spelled Austen "Austin" as in Texas, and the Times reviwer said he (would be a "he") preferred "Trainspotting". The Philistines are upon us!

And as everybody knows he's played myriads and myriads of those, of course. When was the last one? Darcy was not "hopelessly romantic." and I've never seen the science fiction angle mentioned before. Ever the optimist. Knew you'd latch onto to this one!! ;-D Almost fell off my chair when I saw that included. Can't imagine that, if the interviewer asked Colin: "So, what films will we see you in next?" that he would answer, "SLOW"!! Where did this woman ever get this information? Maybe she picked it up from the Roles Page. hee hee!!

Dyslexic kids get to typeset daily papers and proofreading is done by computers - all for speed and cheapness. What do you expect?

(For clarity: the above is a reply to Bethan's last remark.) [Re: hopelessly romantic: he's played myriads and myriads of those...] When was the last one? Karen, I am a sarky animal, remember? ;-P

I meant it in the same vein.

Right. Seriously though, I suppose Joe Prince (Prince Charming??? Aha! ;-)) could be classed as hopelessly romantic in a way. Anyone else?

How about Armand Duval? And then, possibly, Charles Gould at the start of Nostromo; too bad that the objects of his hopeless romanticism were the mine and Costaguana, not his wife. Mr. Darcy himself may not have been hopelessly romantic, but the role certainly was.

All right, then - two or three hopelessly romantic characters in 16 years of acting, and he's moaning?

Don't forget Geoffrey Clifton, the most hopelessly romantic of them all! "Uxuriousness..that's my favorite kind of love. Excessive love of one's wife." Murph

Wessex: hopeless unromantic Jess: hopeless womanizer Paul: just plain hopeless Geoffrey: definitely, Murph, the "most hopelessly romantic of them all" for quite some time. Charles: hopelessly idealistic Simon: hopelessly realistic and callous Darcy: dared to have hope Freddie: hoped to leave his romantic attachments behind Stephen: hopelessly warped Ross: hopelessly good-looking John: hoped for romance, but only had Brian Courtois: a hopeless romantic Joe: a hopeless romantic Valmont: nothing was hopeless until the end Robert: initially only a hopeless romantic about soldiering Brian: a hopeless romantic Adrian: a hopeless romantic ;-D Colin Craven: a romantic Tom: an injured romantic Richard Herncastle: a libidinous romantic and the prey of women everywhere Alexander: hopelessly sick Neil: only hopelessly romantic because so young Armand: another hopeless romantic Tommy: hopelessly romantic about revolution

Well done, Karen. I agree that darling Geoffrey is the most romantic of CF's roles. What's your take on Alan? I just saw OOTB - can't get a handle on him. Isn't Wessex's comment about "the tide waiting for no man, but I swear it would wait for you" just a little romantic? Charles is idealistic, though far less so at the end, but what about him saying that he was under the spell of the mine, like in fairy stories (or something like that) in the wet scene. His view seemed romantic as well as idealistic.

Alan: a hopeless liar

Lisa's Timeline has some new news about Relative Values, which makes it sound much more promising. Shooting starts July 31 (he's really working back to back!) and the film is backed by US money, an LA based company in collaboration with the Isle of Man Film Commission (who backed "Waking Ned"). The cast sounds very good...much younger than in the original Noel Coward play. Denise Richards has gone. Sophie Thompson (Emma's sister), Jeanne Triplehorn and Billy Baldwin join the cast (JA, CF, SF) I reckon ST will play Moxie, JT Miranda and BB (is this William Baldwin?) Nigel. I think ST and JT are both very good comediennes. All in all, a good ensemble!

I am having some problems. Nothing shows up as new on topic 119. Anyone else having the same problem?

Not here! Everything is as usual.

Hi all, I�m back from my hols and what did I find when I came home....the FP soundtrack! Ahh! Allow me a moment of gushing, ladies. I LOVE the soundtrack, it makes me all......I don�t know what. The music sounds so great on a cd and so much better than in the film, or at least it sounds different. Listening to it brings back all the feelings and lovely moments in the movie. And his voice then. It�s magical to listen to it like he was talking next to me. Makes me want to *kiss* my amplifiers! Thanks again, Emma.

Yes, but most - if not all - of these characters had other dimensions besides just hopeless romanticism. His complains are groundless.

GOOD TO HAVE YOU BACK, ...Elena....we have missed your postings. You've been gone far too long... ***** Allison, I sometimes have that problem with 119 New not showing. Try rebooting....sometimes it works. ***** A gentle reminder.... To those planning to attend the January 15th, 3 DOR peformance.... Someone yesterday bought seats in Row C.. Apparently Rows A&B are sold. This is a v. small theatre...the center section is best. Sides are marginal. Please book soon. Box Office: 171-369-1732 (Country code precedes...in the US it is 011-44) ***** Glad Denise Richardson is gone from RV.Never heard of Jeanne Triplehorn. ST is excellent.Who is going to play Don Lucas, I wonder.

Never heard of Jeanne Triplehorn. But you know her. The "other woman" in Sliding Doors! Was also in "The Firm." BTW, you will see her with Hughie in Mickey Blue Eyes. Saw the trailer at the theater the other day and the audience really howled, especially at Hugh trying to speak like a Goodfella. Definitely reminded me of some of the very old Cary Grant screwball comedies. Am beginning to wonder if Jeanne T is living in London permanently since Mickey Blue Eyes is an Elizabeth Hurley production.

Like your creative spin on "hopeless" characters, Karen And here we all sit, helplessly hoping he adds more characters to that list. Welcome back, Elena. I share your excitement over the FP soundtrack. Listening to those songs just put a bounce in my step, even "Liquidator". Well, maybe not that. Has 119 re-set itself for you Allison? It usually does after bringing it up once.

Who is going to play Don Lucas, I wonder. Actually, I got it wrong, I think. Presumably Billy/William Baldwin will play Don Lucas. And so we don't know who plays Nigel. Anyway I think it sounds like a much better Anglo/American mix.

(Elena) And his voice then. It�s magical to listen to it like he was talking next to me. Makes me want to *kiss* my amplifiers! Try listening to his voice with the lights out for a real thrill. Amazingly, for I rarely listen to pop music, I too love the soundtrack (except for Fiesta - when I made a tape for my car, I only copied the opening bars of it - I guess I'm not a lover of polka). It is very lively, My favourite is the last track - Fever Pitch. Such a sweet scene when it is playing in the film - love the expression on Paul's face as he circles for the kiss. (Bethan) And so we don't know who plays Nigel. Is it for sure that CF is playing Peter? I am not familiar with this play, but wouldn't DB be a natural for another Earl, although perhaps Nigel is another hopeless romantic role that Colin (poor, poor put-upon boy) is so tired of playing.

Has everyone read this review of MLSF from THE NATIONAL REVIEW ON-LINE? It's pretty good. http://www.nationalreview.com/movies/simon.html

Billy Baldwin, fresh from his stint as Barney Rubble, would be a *perfect* Don Lucas! I am visualizing that last scene between Don and Peter. yum yum!! Sophie will be a good Moxie. Am visualizing Peter thinking about how he is going to fix her up (hair, makeup, and clothing). I like this casting. Works so far for me. My car tape of FP omits "The Liquidator." Am thinking of making another, but without the Pogues song too. It's getting shorter and shorter. It was so strange watching "Summer of Sam" and the "Baba O'Reilly" montage. Was waiting for "How do you hang on to a dream" to come on next. Am so conditioned to hearing it play right after! ;-)

Pretend you don't see the name Puttnam ;-) Exit Stage Left For Director Puttnam By Michael Eskenazi LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - After three decades as one of Britain's foremost names in film, David Puttnam is abandoning movies for an industry he sees as less contentious and less fraught with in-fighting and hypocrisy -- politics. The producer of such acclaimed films as "The Killing Fields," "Midnight Express" and Oscar-winning "Chariots of Fire" is closing the door on a fabled movie career to focus on his role as a junior minister in Britain's Labour government. "I just can't swing back between the world of reality and real problems and the world of dreams anymore," Puttnam, 58, told Reuters. His last movie, "A Life So Far," being released in the United States this week, is a sentimental look at the travails of a privileged Scottish family. Although backed by Disney-owned Miramax studios, it is a distinctly British movie and it allows Puttnam to stick his tongue out at the Hollywood that began by feting him and ended up fighting him. He was never a natural joiner and his inability to toe the party line doomed his tenure as head of Columbia pictures in the mid-1980s. He was dismissed after 13 months on the job during which he scrapped with the likes of Warren Beatty, Dustin Hoffman and Bill Cosby. Puttnam had charted his own course even before the call from Hollywood. He left school at 16 to work as a London advertising messenger and rose to become the toast of the British film industry in the early 1980s. PUTTNAM MOVES INTO POLITICS His entry into politics came in 1997 when he was appointed a life peer in the British House of Lords (upper house of parliament) in a move by Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair to modernize the tradition-bound legislative assembly. He was given the job of junior minister for education. "I'm very happy to be moving to a world of real people making real money and away from one of some absurd people making some very unreal money," he said. "I'm no longer having conversations with people about how large their Winnebago is." "One of the things that frustrated me in California was that everyone, once you hired them, wanted to hire an assistant. I'd say to them, 'Didn't I hire you to do that?' In England film people are much more concerned with the craft of filmmaking and they take much more pride in it. In Hollywood it's like everyone's got their eye on the next job. Every camera operator wants to direct." Set in the 1930s, "My Life So Far" centers on the Pettigrew family who live on an estate in the Scottish highlands in blissful isolation from The Depression and events leading the world to war. In one scene family patriarch Edward Pettigrew (Colin Firth), a classical music lover, becomes incensed when an in-law tries to smuggle in jazz records from Paris. Similarly, Puttnam, who left California proclaiming "Hollywood needs regeneration," has long lobbied Europeans to stave off pressure to Americanize their art. That message drew him to "My Life So Far" after he read the book on a plane and was drawn to the story of a family striving to guard its own treasure -- its estate. By the time he landed in Tokyo he knew he wanted to bring it to the screen. FORGIVENESS IS THEME OF LAST FILM "It caught me because it was so against the stories being told in movies today," he said. "It was about a family and it said that the family is an imperfect organism and one that's very undervalued. While so many films are about revenge, this is about forgiveness." The film offers fellow Briton Hugh Hudson a quiet revenge on Hollywood as well. Hudson's first two works as director were both filmed in Scotland to great critical acclaim -- the 1981 Putnam-produced "Chariots of Fire" and "Greystoke" (1984). Two Hollywood films that followed, "Revolution" (1985) with Al Pacino and "Lost Angels" (1989) with Beastie Boy Adam Horovitz, were mired in studio infighting and panned by critics. "It was a joy to make this film," Hudson told Reuters. "It was a friendly and joyous three months working in Scotland." He said it was particularly nice working with Puttnam this time. "He's a more relaxed man (than when he made "Chariots of Fire"). ... He's more comfortable and sure of himself." "Early on in my career I had this chip on my shoulder," Puttnam said of his climb to the top of the film business. He felt he had something to prove to American contemporaries who had the benefit of film school, he said. "It made me quite difficult to work with." He has also abandoned his resentment over the British school system's failure to engage him as a boy. His appointment to serve as education undersecretary came as a surprise but "turned out to be the best thing that ever happened to me." "With the work I'm doing now in education, this is the most gratifying period of my life, beside the short period where I had 'Chariots of Fire' and 'The Killing Fields' back-to-back. Outside of that brief period, this has been the most creatively exciting period of my life," he said. At last year's Cannes Film Festival he told reporters that with the manpower being devoted to educational reform, Britain is poised to become "the Hollywood of education." And this Hollywood is not threatened by corporate buyouts. ******** What a salesman. This is going to have them lining up to see MLSF.

Oh, and thanks, Evelyn, for the newest review. Am off to check the Christian Science Monitor!! ;-D

Well hello people. I've just returned from Germany and my first port of call was the Conference Centre. Regardless of the time I've been having in Germany, I have been suffering from enormous "Drool" withdrawals and I am glad to be back for that, if not for any other reason.

Evelyn, thanks for the National Review Online review of MLSF......you really get the impression that the reviewer watched the film intently. And Karen, as for David Puttnam, words fail me ( I wish they'd fail him!) He is getting all this promotion and all he does is promote himself and "rubbish" Hollywood. (Without some Hollywood interest, MLSF would die). It would have been far more gracious if he could have found time to talk about Hugh Hudson, the movie (and how good it is), and the cast...even one paragraph would have helped. No-one is going to see MLSF merely because it's Puttnam's swansong. On playing hopeless romantics, well they may not always be hopeless, but with the exception of AZ hasn't everything CF's made included/focused on a relationship with a woman (even Judd had his usherette). No buddy movies, no action thrillers!

Welcome back, Mannen!

Someone yesterday bought seats in Row C.. Apparently Rows A&B are sold. Yeah, I contacted the box office too late to get in the front row on the 15th so I ended up buying an A center ticket for Friday the fourteenth! So I�m going to see him twice. (Too greedy actually to agonize about the front rows, ALL the rows are very close to him in the Donmar, at least in the stalls.)

"It was a joy to make this film," Hudson told Reuters. "It was a friendly and joyous three months working in Scotland." Aha! Three months.....so it must have been a working honeymoon and in Scotland! Actually, in good weather (not always guaranteed) I should think the Loch Fyne area is hard to beat. We spent a holiday there a few years back, and it is very beautiful. The house where MLSF was filmed is open to the public, or at least the grounds are...they contain the tallest trees in Europe (just thought you'd like to know this!):-)

Yes, Welcome back Mannen, hope you enjoyed your tiem in Germany. BTW Evelyn Moon and Tineke should be meeting up today (TRT), hope they have a good time.

Now that you mentioned it Ann, ...here we are in London, just had lunch and on our way to the Donmar!!! Hello to all! We had a fright with a CF look alike at the Luna Nuova, we had to get the waiter to check it out, no such luck. :-( We hope to give a full report later when we arrive home. ARRIVEDERCI!

How funny!! A CF look alike in the Donmar building. BTW, I just got an email from Moon wanting to know about any real or potential CF London happenings. Hmmm, maybe she should go talk to the recipient of all of Heide's faxes?

Nothing on 119 shows up as "new" still It doesn't matter for me, I can keep track but it might put others off it happens to them. Wasn't Winter having similar trouble?

Another review for MLSF at Girls on FILM http://www.girlson.com/

Allison, I'll email you re: problem. Winter's occurred on #43. Haven't heard whether she's still having it. Come to think of it, haven't heard from her since last week. Yoohoo, Winter, did you go to those movies? Inquiring minds want to know. ;-D

A thought occurred... Could the missing 119 have been designated as a topic to Forget? Accidently of course. Isn't there supposed to be a "Remember" button. I don't have one, don't know why but maybe it is only shown if you've used the "Forget" button. Laura last had that problem.

Thanks for those links, Evelyn and Ann (although the GoF review wasn't so great). Enjoyed reading the first from Nat'l Review Online. You're right, Bethan, it does appear Simon watched the film carefully. Can't wait to hear Colin bark like a dog ;-P In which publication was the latest Puttnam diatribe found, Karen?

No buddy movies, no action thrillers! Don't forget Tumbledown - still the best by far.

Like the current cast of RV. Someone inquired if we knew for sure if Colin was playing Peter..I hope so...Nigel is an old fool...makes Wessex look good. ***** Welcome back Mannen ***** I thought I was late with that MLSF review at the NATIONAL REVIEW... The downside is that no one reads that publication!! ***** (Karen) LA TIMES interview with David Puttnam... "Early on in my career I had this chip on my shoulder, What makes him think he still doesn't....the old goat!! I could cheerfully strangle him for that interview...what a PR job for MLSF. "Revenge on Hollywood" by producer and director...is not the way to market a movie. I bet Harvey is livid.. **** Great to hear from Tineke and Moon...our gals at the Donmar!!

Here's the link to the news item, Eileen: Puttnam Rant

Let me try that again: Puttnam Rant

I'm clueless as to why it isn't working; maybe it's too long??? http://dailynews.yahoo.com/headlines/re/story.html?s=v/nm/19990722/re/people_puttnam_2.html

Someone should answer Sybil at the Girls on FILM http://www.girlson.com/ website.Who the h***is she anyway?Did you read her vita?...Likes Paul Rudd and TV Sitcoms...puhleeze. And where did she see MLSF anyway ...if it being released tomorrow. Susan...why don't you answer her since you saw it at RI.

Thanks, Karen (timely, too!). I hope people don't take the time to read it. Someone needs to give him the "cutoff" sign. Newsweek didn't have an Arts and Entertainment section in this week's issue due to the Kennedy/Bessette tragedy. I'm anxious to see what David Ansen (or collegue) has to say about MLSF. Hopefully it will be positive and millions of people will read it. Hey Harvey, have you taken David to lunch lately?

Someone should answer Sybil at the Girls on FILM website.Who the h***is she anyway? BTW, Evelyn, she spells her name Sibyl. That was my first clue.

Sibyl sounds about 12 years old...what did she say "something that parents will like". Trouble is, I think a lot of reviewers are virtual teenybops...didn't one review say that MLSF would appeal to grandmothers! (Mind you, you can (theoretically) be a grandmother in your early thirties!)Each to his/her own taste. I'm praying that David Puttnam doesn't take it upon himself to "promote" MLSF in the UK. Since when has the producer been so omnipotent (and clueless)? Normally it's the director or starring actors who give interviews. Goes without saying, I'd like to see something about Colin, but I'd also be interested in an interview with Hugh Hudson!! Like the current cast of RV. Someone inquired if we knew for sure if Colin was playing Peter..I hope so...Nigel is an old fool...makes Wessex look good. (Evelyn) Yes, I'm feeling much more hopeful about RV now. It's a good mix...JA (appeals to grandmothers!), and also actors who are familiar in current popular movies in the US, plus Sophie Thompson and Stephen Fry who always turn in good character perfomances. And Colin of course! Might succeed in bringing Noel Coward to the masses. It's very light, but if well played , could be very enjoyable. And I'm always a sucker for gracious living and country house settings! I agree....Peter is far more attractive (at least he works for a living!) than Nigel, who is basically a bit of a twit!

You won't like this one ladies especially the bit about CF and Mr. D - from Metromix Arts & entertainment Guide Review MLSF http://metromix.com/movies/0,1156,11-4454,00.html this chap obviously has something against Colin he has even left his name off the credits!!

Not good review from the Chicago paper.... Number #3 city in US. (Don't post that one,Murph.) Can't wait to read what the LA Times says...and where is Janet Maslin when we need her? The reviewer obviously is familiar with Colin's work...few reviewers would have referred to P&P...because they didn't see it.But he definitely has a vendetta when he didn't even list him in the cast!! Kill him Karen!

Not good, not good. Michael Wilmington is THE film critic for the Chicago Tribune; the counterpart for Roger Ebert. It isn't in today's paper, just checked. I didn't expect it until next Friday. 'My Life So Far' Set in Scotland, 'My Life So Far' pleasant but lacking By Michael Wilmington "My Life So Far" is a reteaming of director Hugh Hudson and producer David Puttnam, whose last film together was the exhilarating 1981 "Chariots of Fire." Although "My Life" has a sort of easygoing charm, exhilaration is sorely lacking. A Scottish extended family living on an exquisite country estate exert themselves in the mild ways the wealthy sometimes must, all of this based on a memoir called "Son of Adam" by Sir Denis Forman. The "life" of the title refers to Fraser, the 10-year-old narrator and happy son of Moira and Edward Pettigrew. One of the movie's problems is that it suggests that the events we observe are from the boy's point of view, but clearly Hudson and screenwriter Simon Donald offer a far more sophisticated look at the goings on at the ancestral home, Harewood House, than a 10-year-old could fathom, never mind recount. Gamma (Rosemary Harris, playing the grandmother with the imperious allure we've come to associate with Joan Plowright) is a benevolent dictator who reigns over the manor harmoniously, contentedly involved with the family of her daughter, Moira (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, still beautiful, and cautiously attempting a wavering Scottish accent throughout). Moira's husband, Edward (Colin Firth), is a stiff eccentric who, it appears, is mismanaging the family resources with schemes that include harvesting and selling the moss that grows on their land and inventing floating and flying vessels. But as Gamma puts it, he worships Moira, and he's a good father. That he is devoted to Beethoven and the Bible and communicates with Fraser by barking are all signs of good character as far as she is concerned. The trouble starts when Moira's brother, Morris (Malcolm McDowell), an aging millionaire and roue who lives in London, takes a sudden interest in Harewood House. He criticizes Edward's ideas and soon announces that he intends to marry a French woman half his age named Heloise (Irene Jacob). In a Chekhovian manner verging on cliche, Jacob plays the supposedly luminous sensual being whose presence in the house disrupts the air of calm. As the oldest, Morris would seemingly be in line to inherit the estate from Gamma, which would leave Moira, Edward and their several children out in the cold. In addition, Edward and Morris' antagonism finds its expression in a rivalry for Heloise's sexual favors. Edward makes a fool of himself and rends the family closeness needlessly, while Morris, always a ho se's ass, just becomes more so as events unfold. The movie's chief disappointment is a failure of storytelling. All indications point to the intention to tell a poignant tale about a boy and his much admired father, a story that is lost as the filmmakers' focus falters. Here and there the father-son story is integral to the plot, as when Edward's jealousy of Heloise's sisterly affection for Fraser is open, but this is an exception. I'm sure they didn't mean it, but the basic story could just as easily been told if Fraser never even existed. Only one conceit demands his presence. He reads from his grandfather's secret stash of pornography and makes the hilariously innocent suggestion at a dinner party that his mother go into prostitution to raise some extra money. Fraser is played by an adorable boy named Robbie Norman who, with his thin lips and intense manner, could be Kenneth Branagh 25 years ago. Although generally engaging, the movie is strangely dead through the first half, partly owing to Hudson and cinematographer Bernard Lutic's preoccupation with stunning vistas over familial interaction. But part of the dullness has to do with Firth in the all important role of Edward. Firth has a curious resemblance to Tim Robbins, but Robbins' goofy charm is replaced in Firth by an awkwardness and rigidity that he's displayed before when he portrayed Mr. Darcy in "Pride and Prejudice" and Kristin Scott Th mas' husband in "The English Patient." One could pass a pleasant enough evening in the company of this movie, but one wouldn't be deprived if one missed it. "My Life So Far" Directed by Hugh Hudson; written by Simon Donald from the book by Sir Denis Forman; photographed by Bernard Lutic; edited by Scott Thomas; production designed by Andy Harris; music by Howard Blake produced by Harvey Weinstein, Bob Weinstein, Paul Webster. A Miramax Films release, opens Friday. Running time: 1:33. MPAA rating: PG-13. THE CAST Fraser ... Robbie Norman Gamma ... Rosemary Harris Moira ... Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio Morris ... Malcolm McDowell Heloise ... Irene Jacob ************* Who's a horse's ass?

you can (theoretically) be a grandmother in your early thirties! Nothing theoretical about it. I have quite recently read about a woman of 28 who has just become the world's youngest gran. awkwardness and rigidity that he's displayed before when he portrayed Mr. Darcy in "Pride and Prejudice" and Kristin Scott Thomas' husband in "The English Patient." Ouch. Oh, dear, oh, dear... So that guy doesn't like Colin's acting. (Off with his head!) So what? One for every ten or twenty maybe. Big deal. I would be worried if they all liked him without exception: life would be sooo boring... ;-)

Gee, I thought Mr. Darcy was supposed to be awkward and rigid. When searching the ELibrary, I found a review which stated something to the effect that CF's expressions as Darcy ran the gamut from A to B. I guess everyone has an opinion. Did this guy see the same performance as the reviewer for The Hollywood Reporter who described CF as "buoyant"? "... A curious resemblance to Tim Robbins" - NOT! Just saw TR in Arlington Road and I couldn't see any charm, goofy or otherwise, in that performance.

Okay, who wrote to Walter Scott's Personality Parade to ask about "Colin Firth's dark side"? Out with it. The answer will be in this Sunday's Parade magazine in your Sunday paper. Hope there's a picture. Topic 121 has just opened.

Re: the GoF review. I just read their (skin-crawling) review of the South Park movie. Stands to reason they wouldn't much appreciate a film like MLSF. Thank God I stopped watching Murder, She Wrote reruns last year; tomorrow I'm putting my rocking chair out with the trash!

Hate to sound like a nag (after all I wanted a push for MLSF too) and I hate to point out the obvious, but what is this about a "Puttnam Rant"?? The article is entitled Exit Stage Left for Director Puttnam -- it is about David Puttnam's retirement from the movie business after a long and distinguished career and his subsequent new projects. It is NOT about MLSF. It is not about Colin (which is the more wonderful as he was the only actor mentioned by name in it). You should be counting th s as a gift to CF, (as he had little reason to be mentioned otherwise), not as a theft of due recognition! C'mon, ease off! 8-D

(KJArt)Re: Puttnam Rant article in LA Times..... It is NOT about MLSF....it is about David Puttnam's retirement from the movie business I didn't say it was. What I said is that his missed the boat in NOT giving MLSF a plug.Instead he arrogantly insulted the very people who are going to review and see the film.And as a producer of said film ,IMO he implicates the film with his uncalled -for comments.Anyway, I fervently hope you are right and I am wrong.

Firth has a curious resemblance to Tim Robbins ugh! Where does this guy have his eyes?? but Robbins' goofy charm is replaced in Firth by an awkwardness and rigidity that he's displayed before AND his brains? Pure envy, I think. How come critics can find merit in the acting of people like Adam Sandler and others like him, and totally dismiss sensitive and thoughtful performers? Baffling!

Although generally engaging, the movie is strangely dead through the first half, partly owing to Hudson and cinematographer Bernard Lutic's preoccupation with stunning vistas over familial interaction. But part of the dullness has to do with Firth in the all important role of Edward. Firth has a curious resemblance to Tim Robbins, but Robbins' goofy charm is replaced in Firth by an awkwardness and rigidity that he's displayed before when he portrayed Mr. Darcy in "Pride and Prejudice" and Kristin Scott Th mas' husband in "The English Patient." *********** Whew! Thanks, Karen. The Tribune is an influential paper. Such harsh words for Dear Boy. Now for the NY Times! I hope Janet M. likes it a bit better than this. And John Simon (National Review)is a long time movie critic who can be savage when he doesn't like something. Used to review, I believe, for New York Mag. He still does theater for it. Murph

This one is better from the LA Times (couldn't sleep!!) they seem to like it thank goodness and no nasty comments about our DB, I shall forget the bad reviews and remember the best two The HR and Roger Eberts - http://www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/MOVIES/HOLD/review-mylife990723.HTM

The aboce is wrong try http://www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/MOVIES/HOLD/review_mylife990723.htm

Thanks, Ann. IMO, this is a terrific review; "sumptuous", "handsome", "directed with verve and subtlety", "...perfectly modulated ensemble...the principles glow". The reviewer devoted a lot of space to Edward, made him sound like such an interesting character and even noticed CF's "sensual features". However, DB as "stocky"? In the trailer, he looked rather slender in the bathing suit, but The Jerusalem Post review of Fever Pitch also referred to lean Paul as "burly".

Ann, do they call you at the newspapers when they change over to their next day editions! Very nice review, but was not from Kenneth Turran. Must take what we can get. Richard Dix? Will have to pull out my old movie books and take a look if Colin resembles him.

From the NY Times. Maslin reviewed "The Haunting." Good review!! 'My Life So Far': Glowing Remembrances of a Scottish Childhood By STEPHEN HOLDEN "My Life So Far," a winsome childhood reverie of family life in Argyll, Scotland, in the late 1920s, offers such a muted, smoothly textured swatch of British nostalgia that you feel no qualms about languishing in its "Masterpiece Theater" vision of a safer, saner, more shining past. With its soft-focus portrait of a mildly troubled family viewed through the adoring eyes of a frisky little boy, it suggests Ingmar Bergman's "Fanny and Alexander" with all its demons comfortably subdued. Amid the prevailing serenity, of course, there are some ruffles. They include a simmering rivalry between brothers-in-law, sexual jealousy and pre-adolescent prurience. A beloved matriarch dies. And there is an embarrassing public spat between the boy's parents. But even the most upsetting events never undermine the film's glowing, child's-eye vision of life unfolding in a stately procession of lovely, adventure-filled days. The film, based on Denis Forman's childhood memoir, "Son of Adam," reunites the director Hugh Hudson with the producer David Puttnam for the first time since their 1981 blockbuster, "Chariots of Fire." Without turning cloyingly inspirational, the newer film expresses the same quietly optimistic faith in humanity's nobler impulses. "My Life So Far" follows a year in the life of Fraser Pettigrew (Robert Norman), a 10-year-old boy growing up in Kiloran House, the sprawling castlelike home of the Macintosh clan in the Scottish highlands. Presiding over the property is Fraser's benign, widowed grandmother Gamma Macintosh (Rosemary Harris), whose daughter Moira (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) has married Edward Pettigrew (Colin Firth), a handsome eccentric gentleman inventor. The film's most complex character, Edward is a passionate, fiery-eyed nonconformist who worships Beethoven (whose music he tells his son is the sound of God talking in his sleep) and is obsessed with aviation. When not tinkering with new gadgets, Edward oversees a marginally profitable moss factory that he has established on the estate. Not all of his inventions work. His most notable dud is a subterranean chimney system that leaks so profusely that smoke that was supposed to have been piped underground illows up through the lawn in spectacular plumes. Firth's deep, quietly tempestuous performance portrays Edward as both a caring father who delights in being a heroic role model for Fraser, and a petulant, self-absorbed visionary. The movie's central drama, observed by Fraser without his fully comprehending what is happening, is the continuing power struggle between his father and his uncle (Moira's brother) Morris Macintosh (Malcolm McDowell). A hard-headed businessman, who hopes one day to inherit the estate, Uncle Morris, as Fraser calls him, disapproves of Edward's silly schemes. When Morris brings home his new wife, Heloise (Irene Jacob), a beautiful, charming, much younger French woman and amateur cellist, Edward becomes instantly besotted and begins recklessly pursuing her right under his wife's nose. Relations between the brothers-in-law, which heretofore have been courteous, are strained to the breaking point, as is Edward and Moira's marriage. "My Life So Far" observes all this through the eyes of the curious Fraser, who also falls under Heloise's spell in the innocent way children do with adults who pay attention to them. At the same time, the boy makes secret sojourns into the attic, where he has discovered his grandfather's books, some of which contain erotic illustrations and definitions of sexual practices. In the film's most amusing moments, Fraser, unaware of what he's saying, naively regales his Puritanical family with the details of his sexual education. The film is peppered with small, colorful incidents that loom large in Fraser's memory: the landing on the property of a plane whose dashing pilot (Tcheky Karyo) sweeps his older sister Elspeth (Kelly MacDonald) off her feet; a joyous skating carnival that ends with a tragic accident, and the appearance in the house (through Heloise) of early jazz records, whose music Edward ominously declares to be the sound of the devil. What gives the film the flow of a good novel is its consistency of tone. Sparingly narrated by Fraser, the movie finds a perfect middle ground between the world as seen through Fraser's eyes and a more worldly wise authorial omniscience. It's good old-fashioned storytelling done with panache.

Here's the url for the review: http://www.nytimes.com/library/film/072399life-film-review.html

Baz Bamigboye strikes again! From today's Daily Mail: (Big colour picture of Jeanne Tripplehorn) JT is the "Hollywood Hussy" Edward Atterton is bringing home to meet mummy. Dashing Mr A will portray Noel Coward's dapper Nigel, Easrl of Marshwood, in a movie version of his Fifties play RV, which is about an aristocrat who decides to marry a movie star. "But he has to take her home to meet mummy, and mummy is Julie Andrews, Mr A says. Coward's piece is an elegant spoof on class and snobbery. Ms T, one of the leading ladies in Basic Instinct and the hilarious forthcoming comedy Mickey Blue Eyes, will play Miranda Frayle, the siren Coward called "a good actress with excellent legs", who finds that her tall Hollywood tales don't go down too well at Marshwood Manor, particularly as the dowager countess's maid knows a thing or two about her background, JA nd Sophie Thompon play these parts...with Colin Firth as a drunken blue blood and Billy Baldwin as an actor who knows a thing or two about her background. more to come....

BB part 2... (whoops, that last line should have read, Billy Baldwin as an actor who knows a the dark secrets of her Tinseltown life.) Director Eric Styles and producer Chris Milburn will shoot RV on the Isle of Man. "Our film is set in the English countryside, the South of France and Hollywood and all of it will be shot on the Isle of Man," Milburn told me. The South of France is easy to depict bacause there are palm trees and lots of sandy beaches. The Hollywood scenes will be set in a studio." Writers Paul Rattigan and Michael Walker have adapted Coward's play, shifting the story a few years forward to the mid-fifties to make it easier to incorporate some Sinatra tracks.

ALSO and I can hardly believe this as RV is supposed to start filming on the 31July, but according to our Teletext Colin Firth is to star in another costume drama for ITV, The Turn of the Screw, A Henry James horror story set in victorian England. FILMING IS TO START THIS WEEK IN LONDON & BERKSHIRE. How can that be, unless the dates for RV are wrong and I did read that SF is starting something in Spain (I forget) on the 1st August. Boy is he making up for last year but this sounds great, apparently he is the head of an English Mansion. Go have a look Allison and Bethan, Teletext on ITV page 127. re RV above, don't like the description a drunken blue-blood, not another buffoon!!! (Thanks for the news Allison)

The NY Times and the LA Times reviews are both very good. I particularly like the LA review..."it's also a film that proceeds from one vignette to another:only when it reaches its climax do you realise that it's been quietly adding up all the while." This makes me wonder whether if MLSF had been shown to a more perceptive audience at its early previews, it would have been edited down so much (nearly 30 minutes removed). Audiences are so accustomed to zap-zap action that they wouldn't have patience with a series of apparently loosely linked vignettes. It seems to me that the reviewers with patience (and there are several) find MLSF the most rewarding. "Stocky, sensual, resembling Richard Dix (who is he when he's at home?)", well, that's much better (I think!) than the Tim Robbins comparison. Although doesn't the LA Times actually manage to squeeze out the word "handsome". We need a few Volvo-owning female reviewers!

We need a few Volvo-owning female reviewers! Okay, I'm available ;-)

Go have a look Allison and Bethan, Teletext on ITV page 127. Yup! It looks like he is working his lovely socks off. That must be some house he's buying!

Yeah! Thank God he's got a mortgage! Henry James "The Turn of the Screw"....ITV costume drama...starring role". Sounds very good to me. ITV have definitely got the edge over the BBC in costume drama productions at the moment and pour a lot of money in (as in the recent "Hornblower" series). "Turn of the Screw" is cerebral Victorian horror, and one of James' best works. There was a version of it in the early eighties, I think. It's difficult to keep up with his work schedule (!), but I think it is possible for projects to overlap. Peter won't be in every scene in RV. Re Baz's report, the "drunken blueblood" tag is just inaccurate reporting - Peter has the odd gin and tonic (as do they all) but is stone cold sober throughout! BTW I've seen Edward Atterton in a drama series on ITV, playing the younger son in an arisocratic family, along with the actor who played Madox in TEP. Good casting.

Total for the year so far and there is still five months to go:- 1 -Stage - 3DOR 2 -TV, DQ & The Turn of the Screw 2- movies, Londinium & Relative Values * possible BJD and, of course, stage 3Dor again - WONDERFUL, hope its a hug emortgage he has taken out!!

huge

(Ann)hug emortgage Freudian slip;-) What an exciting time we are having in the UK this morning. When the US droolers wake up this afternoon won't they be in for a surprise. All this and getting to see MLSF today, lucky things.

MLSF, Newsday.com. gives it 3*, more The Inspector Gadget and The Haunting, 28 each and they like it!! http://www.newsday.com /features/movrev/mv10723.htm(I really must get on with some work!!)

(2* each), not 28, so many erros this morning, got up to early, went to bed too late!!

Am going to be a slight party pooper, but Colin's role in "Turn of the Screw" could be just a cameo. I've checked my copy of the novel, and the "Head of the Mansion" must be the children's bachelor uncle who appoints the governess in the first chapter, and isn't seen again. Of course in the TV adaptation, the part could be different,more padded out, or there could be flashbacks, but I think this may well be "guest appearance by CF", which explains why he could easily fit it in with RV. But I'm not complaining...and don't fotget BJD will probably start shooting late summer.

ohhh,shame!!

Yes I was much puzzled when I read he was playing in Turn of the Screw, I could not work out how he came in. Must be a Cameo part. Still he's busy good for us.

Must be a Cameo part Teletext said he was starring though this may be the reverse of the States where his recognition factor is low. In the UK he may get more publicity than his costars even if his is a smaller role!

Entertainment Weekly Online Review MY LIFE SO FAR Colin Firth, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Irene Jacob, Rosemary Harris Rated PG-13 What's that twinkling in the gloaming? Ah, it's a bevy of clich�s in this twee drama, set in 1930s Scotland (the green green Highlands, the fine costumes, the caramel accents!) and based on the autobiography of a chap who went on to become a top British TV executive. ''Wasn't Papahhh extraordinary!'' seems to be the point of this memoir, told by an observant son (Robert Norman), but we're offered no proof. Dad (Colin Firth) is apparently eccentric because he fancies sphagnum moss as a profitable crop. He lso fancies his brother-in-law's exotically French fianc�e (Ir�ne Jacob), while Mamahhh (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) suffers quietly. The family matriarch (Rosemary Harris) sniffs with disapproval as a matter of course. Hugh Hudson directs as if time has stood still since Chariots of Fire. Grade: C- -- Lisa Schwarzbaum EW Review

Can anyone be so good as to tell me where I could find a completed list of events that CF has going for the next twelve months or so? I would really like to plan my holiday overseas a bit better next time, so I get the chance to see him perform on stage or something.

Must be a Cameo part "Turn of the Screw"......have had second thoughts. If this is a literal rendition, it would be a cameo, but I think that literal adaptations often don't work on screen. If CF's character is described as "Head of the Mansion", I think he will be the bachelor uncle, but could actually head the household, but with no interest or involvement with the children (but still be a visible presence, not someone who just disappears in Chapter 1). Also it's a psychological drama with opportunities for flashbacks (how much is actually in the boy's mind, not "real"), an the ending is far, far too downbeat. The boy dies after the governess tries to exorcise the "evil" spirit. I'm not in favour of sanitized endings but I think this would definitely have to be changed (the boy could be ill, and recover). And there is scope for some commitment and involvement from the uncle, particularly at the end. Can't see CF taking the role, even if it's not a major one, without some scope for development.

Or does the "head of an English Mansion" mean "head servant", which could be a meaty role?

The Turn of the Screw, A Henry James horror story Great. Like I�ve said before, I�ve always thought he�d be brilliant in horror movies.

More thoughts on "Turn of the screw" (Have time as am on holiday, but we are off to France on Monday, and should be focusing on the trip!) There was an earlier screen version "The Innocents", with Deborah Kerr, which I'd forgotten about. If you check out IMDB, full details are there. Colin could be taking the Peter Quint role (head servant). But I notice that the Uncle role was played by Michael Redgrave, a great actor, which also sounds promising (ie not a cameo). Would like to see "The Innocents". Has anyone seen it?

CF in HJ's The Turn of the Screw, eh? Geez, I remember seeing the Deborah Kerr version The Innocents and it scared the hell out of me. I think this is the most exciting news I've heard. All the other roles you've been discussing seems like a rehash of roles he's already played. Now, if they could only do this in black & white!

(Allison) When the US droolers wake up this afternoon won't they be in for a surprise. All this and getting to see MLSF today, lucky things. OK, am first up here and am shocked, surprised and now very awake!! All this news ladies! Thank you and thank your Volvos. ;-) Agree that I don't like the characterization of Nigel as a drunken blue-blood. He does have the "odd gin and tonic" throughout the entire second act, but drunken is the last thing that comes to mind when I think of Nigel. Perhaps they think it will work better than the alternative, which I won't mention... ;-D So Frank Sinatra will be featured on the soundtrack? Good choice! Henry James' Turn of the Screw? Hmmmm This is for your television, isn't it? Perhaps A&E will pick it up. Since I have Renate's wet blanket on loan, most of Henry James' works to be adapted to the screen lately have been poorly received. I do wonder how big a role Colin's will be. Am hoping that his role in Londinium is the starring role because it isn't in RV and doesn't sound like it would be in Turn of the Screw. Am off to scour the sites again. Good job, ladies. Nice to see that Colin is working and working and working... ;-)

Thanks, so much to you all for your diligence. These reports made for great reading this morning. (Karen) Am hoping that his role in Londinium is the starring role because it isn't in RV and doesn't sound like it would be in Turn of the Screw. I hope he's not spreading himself too thin here. I would rather see him in one good lead role a year than several supporting roles. Well, truthfully, even six good leads would be merely adequate. (Karen)... most of Henry James' works to be adapted to the screen lately have been poorly received. I saw both Washington Square and Portrait of a Lady within the last few months. Unsympathetic characters, turgid dialogue, slow-moving pace and very depressing endings characterise both films. I didn't like Washington Square (or the very unattractive Jennifer Jason Leigh) and Portrait of a Lady was a punishment to sit through (especially John Malkovich's creepy performance). I hope ITV's Turn of the Screw is a lot better. I loved the N.Y. Times reviewer's description of CF's performance as "deep, quietly tumultuous". This could apply equally to CF's performance as Mr. Darcy. Take note, Mr. Wilmington!

It seems to me the reviewers either like it (and a few--Ebert, Reed--love it) or hate it. They either "get it" or they don't. By "get it" I mean they realize the gaps and occasionally plodding pace are a function of the 10-year old storyteller, not the story itself. Overall, only the eunuch Mr. Wilminton has dissed Colin's performance. (Lynda) or the very unattractive Jennifer Jason Leigh Nothing beats her pouting, petulant, monotonistic performance in ATA. Yecchhh.

From LA Weekly (the alternative paper). It is designated "Recommended." Note designation of CF!! ;-D How true, how true. More women reviewers!! MY LIFE SO FAR British television pooh-bah Sir Dennis Forman may have had a lively childhood in the Scottish wilds, but director Hugh Hudson, who made the overblown Chariots of Fire, has smoothed Forman�s memoir into an edible package ruled by the principle of cute. As seen by his freckle-faced pubescent son (Robert Norman), madcap inventor father (bonny Colin Firth) comes on adorably eccentric (flies homemade plane, tries to market unmarketable medicinal plant, takes offspring swimming in icy lochs). Meanwhile, as beau eous mother (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) and ramrod granny (Rosemary Harris) look fondly on, ruddy-faced yokels slouch around saying "Brilliant, Mr. Pettigrew!" and amply busted cooks gossip below stairs to push the plot along. And push it does, when father�s older brother (Malcolm McDowell), a hardheaded captain of industry, shows up with a pocketful of sibling rivalry and a glam fianc�e (Irene Jacob) who wows every man in sight, including madcap dad and pubescent son. What�s not to like in this amiable tale, lavishly furnished with Highland scenery? Only that a boy�s own story with a decidedly troubled undertow has been so thoroughly doused with calculated charm, it comes up smirking even when it shouldn�t. (Ella Taylor)

Karen) Am hoping that his role in Londinium is the starring role because it isn't in RV and doesn't sound like it would be in Turn of the Screw. I'm revising my view of "Turn of the Screw"...he's either got to play the Quint role or the Uncle role as played by Michael Redgrave in "The Innocents" (forget the original book). I know he hasn't got a big ego, but I can't see that even CF would take a cameo role in a TV production. I wonder which company is doing it...if it's Carlton or some equivalent, it's bound to be a co-production with A&E or Boston (WBGH?) (Karen)... most of Henry James' works to be adapted to the screen lately have been poorly received. I think TOTS(!) is different and it is very much in the cerebral psychological horror genre which, according to the Times, is very popular in the US at the moment!

Yeah!! I've finally gotten through to the Miramax PR person here and she said that she will send me passes to the advanced screening on Aug 2. OK, not too much ahead of the regular opening, but I'll take any scraps... ;-D

Another review, quite good at least for Colin "Firth is engaging" from Yhe New York Daily News "Slow but Dramatic "Life"". 21/2stars nydailynews.com/today/New_York_Now/Movies/default.asp scroll down to Slow but Dramatic Life. I also liked the Newsday review, he had some nice comments about Colin, in fact all the reviewers (except one) seemed to like the cast just not always the film

http://www/nydailynews.com/today/New_York_Now/Movies/default.asp

http://www.nydailynews.com/today/New_York_Now/Movies/default.asp

From USA Today: My Life So Far 2-1/2 stars out of four This solidly mounted if only mildly moving childhood memoir, set on a castle-like estate in the misty Scottish highlands of the late '20s, at least has an unexpected sting. It's the kind of cosmic slap felt when you realize your beloved parent is capable of being a total jerk. Fraser Pettigrew (Robert Norman) is a precocious 10-year-old with an uncanny knack for asking awkward questions ("What's an orgy?") at the worst possible moments. He idolizes his dad, Edward (Shakespeare in Love's Colin Firth), a co servative dreamer. For Fraser, life is one long Scottish fling. Then Uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell), announces he wants to marry a 24-year-old French cellist named Heloise (Irene Jacob). Her disruptive presence wafts through the staid household, ruled by Fraser's steely grandmother (Rosemary Harris), like an intoxicating spritz of Parisian perfume. She freely dotes on young Fraser, sharing with him a love of forbidden jazz music, but fends off the unwanted advances of a jealous - and very married - Edwar . And son and father become rivals for her affections. The episodic film, directed by Hugh Hudson (Chariots of Fire), unwinds with little urgency. (In New York and Los Angeles; PG-13: sexual content)

Just back from purchasing hard copy NY Times. The review follows a 3/4 page version of the ad towards the back of the leisure section. There is a picture with the review; it's the one of Edward and Moira embracing while sitting on a boulder. I will tell you the picture did not reproduce well insofar as ODB. He looks quite 'baggy, esp. around his eyes. It truly does him no justice. He looks *much* better in the ad (and I know how all of you feel about that picture ;-p)! BTW, Maslin's review of 'Haunting' was scathing: "'The Flaunting' would have made a better title" and another reviewer's opinion of 'Inspector Gadget' was just as bad ("a clinker"). Overall MLSF has fared quite well. Will see how all this translates into paying customers when I see it myself tomorrow.

(Allison) What an exciting time we are having in the UK this morning. When the US droolers wake up this afternoon won't they be in for a surprise. Boy, you said it, Allison! It never rains but it pours;-) Thanks to everyone (on both sides of the Atlantic) for posting the reviews, links and TOTS news. What a crew we are! (Eileen) It seems to me the reviewers either like it (and a few--Ebert, Reed--love it) or hate it. They either "get it" or they don't. Exactly so. Either you like this kind of movie or you don't. If you like childhood dramas featuring excessive weirdness a la Sibyl's fav "The Butcher Boy," stay away from MLSF. Re: the reviewer's comment about CF's "awkwardness and rigidity," IMO the only scenes where he displays this are the ones where he's trying, in a very nerdy way, to impress Heloise. In other words, it's part of the character. Someone give this guy a clue!

Well, Bethan may be able to grab TOTS off a bookshelf, but I've found a bunch of picture of Richard Dix in my movie books. There are several from The Ten Commandments and Cimmarron. There's a very vague resemblance. I'd scan them in, but it's too hot outside. Maybe I'll change my mind. There's one where he's in a clinch with some babe in 10 Commandments. Hair is wavy and floppy, but his face is only in profile. OK, here's the review from WSJ. Had to type this up myself. argh!! Very nice review. As Eileen said, most of the lead critics reviewed "The Haunting" today and it was roundly trounced. A columnist for Mr. Showbiz said that he's positive this is the movie that caused Liam Neeson to think about retirement, not TPM!! ;-D OK, enough: "My Life So Far" by Joe Morgenstern I'm giving away nothing but a promise of pleasure when I tell you that "My Life So far" ends in a Scottish castle with a 10-year-old boy smoking a cigar and swirling a stiff slug of milk in a brandy snifter as he listens to a record of Louis Armstrong's "On the Sunny Side of the Street" on a Victrola. The song and the scene make a perfect coda for a movie that leaves you feeling expansively happy. Hugh Hudson, who is best known in his life so far for "Chariots of Fire," has directed this coming-of-age story set in Scotland between the World Wars. The boy, Fraser, is played by Robbie Norman, an Edinburgh schoolboy with no previous acting experience-the kid's a natural if ever there was one-and a sweet, soft face manifestly ready to be molded by experience. That's what coming-of-age stories are all about, new experience that transforms a young person's world view, and "My Life So Far" is a fine exa ple of the genre. (Simon Donald adapted the script from an autobiography by the British TV executive Sir Dennis Forman. Bernard Lutic did the lovely cinematography.) Fraser lives on an estate in the midst of a family that includes his grandmother Gamma (Rosemary Harris), his mother Moira (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio), and , on occasion, his rich uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell), an affable semi-Scrooge, who's engaged to Heloise, a betwitching young Frenchwoman played, bewitchingly, by Irene Jacob. At the center of Fraser's world is his father, Edward (Colin Firth), an extravagant eccentric who loves Beethoven, hates jazz and runs the only moss factory in Europe. (Dur ng World War I sphagnum moss saved soldiers' lives with its medicinal properties.) Fraser worships his daft dad blindly, but Edward finally reveals himself as woefully human-unchained lust gives him away-and Fraser learns, from forbidden books and thrilling encounters with Heloise, what makes the world go round. It's wrenching to watch a father become a fallen idol. In my book, though, any man who dislikes Louis Armstrong is suspect from the start.

and Eileen we look forward to your review this weekend! and Mannen the oly thing Colin is doing in the next few months that you would want to travel and see it 3DOR November1999-January2000, unless of course he attends the London Premiere of MLSF whenever that may be. Do try and join us on the 15th January, at the Donmar, you may never get another chance to "be up close and personal". On the whole I think the reviews have been pretty good, a few bad a few middling but also many good ones and particularly or Colin, I think, or am I biased.

Mannen. Lisbeth's site might have the information you need about Colin's activities over the next year. It is not updated with today's informaation but I am sure it soon will be. Go to http://www.geocities.com/Paris/Salon/2327/calendar.html

Yes, there is a review at the Christian Science Monitor, with picture of Colin. The same one that was on the main Drool page for some time. The reviewer, David Sterritt, gave it only 2 stars. http://www.csmonitor.com/durable/1999/07/23/fp15s2-csm.shtml Last week, he gave a very good review to EWS. So I guess you can't pidgeon-hole these papers! ;-)

Mannen, may I also suggest you visit Mary Murphy's site for up-to-date info on Colin's projects. Not only is the site chock full of well-referenced and beautifully designed material, Mary also posts here and will frequently let us know when she has added a new feature or important news item. If you do go there, you will see information that many of us have cheerfully supplied to Mary. Here is the url (bookmark like I have) http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/index.html She has a newspage (in addition to the scrolling ticker) with items about all the projects.

Thank You All for the exciting news items on future projects, and reviews. You have made my weekend. Think I'll read the LA Times review over'n over :-) Have a good holiday in France, Bethan. We'll be eager to get your review of MLSF tomorrow Eileen. I know you'll have a good time. . Karen...good for you...getting a pass for the preview....jumping the gun on the rest of us peasants!! Mannen if you are planning on joining us on Jan 15th (and I hope you do!!) pl. order your tickets quickly...the center section of the stalls is going fast!! AnnW. and Tineke have a good time tomorrow at the Donmar... look for you-know- who!

Here's another one. http://www.msnbc.com/news/292602.asp

According to the Cinematter.com site Fever Pitch is to go direct to video in the Fall, does that mean that it isnot now being released for the big screen. Thankyou Evelyn for your good wishes for tomorrow, I am really looking forwazrd to the play and meeting up with Tineke again, will report on Odds & Ends Sunday (will also keep my eyes peeled). Happy Hols Bethan, when can we expect you back?!!, you always post such interesting snippets.

(WBGH?) hee hee. WGBH (stands for W because we are on the right of the Mississippi and GBH (Greater Blue Hills) minute mountains in Canton, MA;) Anything on the left of the ole Miss is K. fun trivia!

Jana, that is one horrendous review from MSNBC...and you guys thought the Trib's was low. This one redefines low. How anyone could mention MLSF in the same article with The Governess is beyond me. That movie is on my all-time worst list. Argh!! Fever Pitch direct to video!! I don't believe it. I just had an email from the SVP at Phaedra on July 8. I've emailed Matt at Cinematter to double check his sources. This news is very distressing. Not the best way to end such an interesting day of Colin news. Oh well, tomorrow is another day. ;-D

(Karen)Jana, that is one horrendous review from MSNBC...and you guys thought the Trib's was low. This one redefines low. How anyone could mention MLSF in the same article with The Governess is beyond me. That movie is on my all-time worst list. Argh!! I've been watching the station on tv hoping that they bypass this review. Haven't seen anything yet. I agree, The Governess was trash(glad I didn't pay $$ to see it on the big screen) a real Batman University production.

Hi ... coming out of lurkdom to rave about MLSF. I played hookey from work and do not regret it. The movie is poignant and utterly charming. Are there enough superlatives to describe CF's acting? He easily moves from doting father and husband to jealousy and scorn. I do hope he gets some critical notice, because the man is long overdue. Best of all, though the movie played in one of the smaller theaters (Laemmle's Sunset 5 in West HOllywood), the theater was packed!!! and the audience thoroughly enj yed themselves.

Thanks for that Marianne and welcome, please de-lurk again and join in on the future discussion of MLSF.

(Marianne)The movie is poignant and utterly charming..... the theater was packed!!! and the audience thoroughly enjoyed themselves. I�m happy to hear that Marianne, thanks for your report. No matter what the critics say, after all it�s the audience who make a movie raise or fall. Btw, Fever Pitch is STILL going in a cinema in Helsinki, I think it�s the 7th week by now! Must be because the right audience has found it. Planning to go to see it again this weekend.

Marianne, so nice to see you! I snuck out of work early and went to the 5:30 show at the Laemmle 5. I didn't see you so you must have been at the earlier or later show. The theatre was only half full at my showing (about 50 people?) but they seemed to enjoy it quite a lot. (Although they sure talked enough during it... GRRRRR!!) And now for my review, well...... I wanted to love it, and while I did like it quite a lot, it wasn't quite on the plane of love IMHO. Maybe it was because I had read too darn many reviews with spoilers, and I think I had my hopes up too high. It is a very charming film, but the vignette nature felt choppy to me like it had been re-edited too many times. There were a few spots where to me it seemed that events happened without the proper character development or foundation. I could say a lot more but ill save it for the spoiler topic so as not to ruin anyone else's enjoyment. Now for the positive side. CF's acting is marvelous, shaded and interesting. He looks absolutely gorgeous and is in almost every seen. There are several fabulous close-ups where his beautiful, thoughtful face fills the entire screen. There is a goose bump moment when after the initial title of the production company, the words COLIN FIRTH fill the screen. My I love for ODB to get top billing. The rest of the acting ensemble is first rate too. I thought the boy very charming and really liked MEM. he is a worthy mate for ODB. It was fun to see Rosemary Harris. I hadn't seen any of her films for years and had not realized how much she looks like Jennifer E.! And now for a confession... is it OK to tell a white lie if it's for a good cause? There were two Miramax employees waiting outside the theater asking us to take a short survey. Even though my reaction to the film was mixed, I fibbed and marked everything with the highest possible score. Have to do my bit to get Miramax off the dime to ship this film out to all of you! When it asked what I liked best about the film, I wrote "fabulous acting, especially Mr. Firth." Heavens, I'm shameless.

It's great to read all the reviews (well, the good ones certainly!) but the best news is audience reaction...and that audiences are going to see the movie and liking it! And a packed house too! Does anyone feel like posting their reactions to the movie over at imdb.com? The two external reviews posted so far are both pretty dreadful (culture vulture and Christopher Null) which hardly creates a positive buzz. You can vote (on a 1 to 10 scale)and post your own comment. If you click on view comments or vote, you have the option to add a comment/vote, and are then asked to register. You email, and receive (after 24 hours)a registration code and an email form. You can just register under a nickname a d (very roughly) where you live. It's quite anonymous. But a rather complicated process. But some supportive comments/votes are needed here (and for FP). The Fiennes bros get rave comments...it's about time Colin got a mention! Apparently imdb.com is the most widely accessed of all the movie sites, and does form opinion! Thanks for the good holiday wishes, Evelyn! I'm now starting to panic...too much packing undone! But it's been great to get all the news, and I like the projects CF is going for. There was something over at IMDB about Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty) who has just played the villain in the latest Bond movie and is probably going to do the next Star Wars. For some reason, these type of projects don't remotely interest me.....I prefer the sort of stuff CF is choosing (although his Bank Manager probably won't gree!)

(Bethan)I prefer the sort of stuff CF is choosing (although his Bank Manager probably won't I agree! And I don't suppose his bank manager will mind too much either. These people make some serious money! Have a wonderful time in France, Bethan. I hope the weather is even half as hot as it is in London today 8-)

Marianne and Jana! Darlings, I'm thrilled you got to see the film and so proud you went on the very first day. It's going to be really hard to be objective when I finally see it but no matter what, like you, I can't see how I won't love Colin in it. (Jana) There is a goose bump moment when after the initial title of the production company, the words COLIN FIRTH fill the screen. The moment I love...waiting for his name. My seat mate always gets clutch marks on the arm when it appears. Have I ever seen it first on a movie screen? Never! Don't worry about lying, Jana. It's for the best of causes and Hell might be much more interesting anyway. I'm sure I'll be there with you. ;-) I know we're concerned that negative reviews are going to color the public's perception of this film but don't you think there are enough positive ones from major sources that it will get a fair shake? This is not blockbuster material and for a small film it's being released much too soon for awards consideration so I have no expectations for this film beyond getting Colin's name noticed by more than his devoted fans. Almost all of the reviews have been very kind to him. Stocky and rigid be damned. You've got to scan that photo of Richard Dix, Karen.

Almost forgot...your fortitude comes through, Karen. Congrats on snagging those tickets. I'll see you at 121. Have a wonderful time, Bethan. When will we see you back? U.S. ladies, look at the Personality Parade in your Parade magazine in tomorrow's paper.

(JanaC) a real Batman University production. LOL!! Think I only paid $2.50 at the cheapie, second run show to see The Governess. Dragged one of my sisters and felt at the end I should reimburse her. (Elena) Fever Pitch is STILL going in a cinema in Helsinki, I think it�s the 7th week by now! Argh!! You lucky girl. All I can do is countdown to the day when I will see MLSF. 9, 8, 7, 6..... Marianne and Jana2: Thank you both for your comments and I would have have cut class, played hookey or left work early too just to see it as soon as I could. Seeing CF up on the big, big screen and looking so incredibly good is getting me all excited. Will I even pay attention to the story no matter how slowly or convolutedly it proceeds? ;-) And Jana, no matter what you should be proud of your "audience reaction" card feedback. Shoot, I exhorted Miramax to release MLSF on the audience card for a *different* one of their movies! Agree with Bethan. I had registered at the IMDb to update the info on MLSF since I do have the production notes with all the details, but that process looked terribly complicated. However, writing one's comments and voting on a film look to be very easy. You don't have to write a huge essay. A few lines in praise of the important things in this movie should suffice. (Bethan) For some reason, these type of projects don't remotely interest me Nor me. It does apparently go to the issue of bankability though, speaking of bank managers! ;-) Another sad note, have been seeing trailers for Mystery Men. Geoffrey Rush (AA-winning Best Actor) is playing some ridiculous superhero wannabee. How low can one go? In a sense, you can admire Colin's choice not to sell out. Fiennes - The Avengers; Everett - Inspector Gadget, etc. Have a very nice holiday in France, Bethan. :-)

Re: Richard Dix The more I look at the pix, the less he looks remotely anything like Colin. Have put books back in the box, but if I get a chance will do the scanning thing. ;-)

Have wonderful holidays, Bethan! And to all lucky ladies going to see MLSF, enjoy!

(Gi) And to all lucky ladies going to see MLSF, enjoy! Yes, enjoy! And I know you will and I can just about imagine how much. What a thrill only to think of him in a new main role, I�d feel weak in my knees in your place when the movie starts. I did when SiL started and practically forgot to breathe when Wessex appeared first time. (Aargh!!!.....I want to see MLSF. When was it to be released in the UK?)

I add my thanks for the reviews of MLSF Jana and Marianne..... I shall badger my Miramax rep next week to see *when* or *if* MLSF is coming my way. Dunno if it helps Colin...but it makes me feel better.

Yipeee!!! Passes arrived today for the (barely) advance screening of MLSF!! Anybody want to join me? She sent two cards and each is good for two admissions. It's on Wednesday, August 4 (not Monday as she said on the phone), but the card (3x5) has the poster picture on the other side. I'm not turning it in.

Prelim packing completed! Thanks for all your good wishes for our holiday! I know this is really the MLSF moment, and I'm rushing ahead by two or three projects, but having looked more closely at "The Turn of the Screw" I think (a) it will be a good production and (b)Colin must be playing the bachelor Uncle and owner of the estate. If told in linear fashion, or using extensive flashbacks (ie so that it's not just the story of the new governess) the Uncle could play a strong role in the build up to the psychological thriller/horror part. He's quite a charmer, and the new governess is infatuated with him and desperate to win his approval, to the extent of making decisions that have tragic consequences. Quote.."He was handsome and bold and pleasant, off-hand and gay and kind. He struck her invariably as gallant and splendid.....He had been left by the death of their parents in India, guardian to a small nephew and niece. These children were the strangest of chances for a man in his position - a lone man without the right sort of experience, or a grain of patience,-very heavy on his hands. It had all been a great worry, and, on his own part doubtless, a series of blunders, but he immensely pitied the poor chicks and had done all he could, sending them down to his other house, parting with his own sevants to wait on them, and going down whenever he could to see how they were doing." The governess is smitten...she wanders through the grounds hoping "someone would appear...would stand before me and approve. I didn't ask any more..I only asked that he should know, and the only way to be sure he knew it would be to see it, and the kind light of it, in his handsome face". So, you see, there is romantic potential, mixed with chilling supernatural!

....a lone man ....Bold.., spendid,.. gallant...handsome..gay... kind.. *Sigh*,.....that governess has good taste!! Beats a cuckold...a buffoon, or a loon any day!! Thanks Bethan...

Re: NBC review. Several of you have seen it now. This is the first reference I have seen to an "apparently offscreen rape" (not to mention the lesbians). Are these incidents "apparent" to those who've seen the film? Or are they a FigNewton of this guy's fertile (fetid?) imagination? (which "apparently" resides below the belt the vast majority of the time...) ...Just curious...

(KJArt)This is the first reference I have seen to an "apparently offscreen rape" (not to mention the lesbians). Are these incidents "apparent" to those who've seen the film? Or are they a FigNewton of this guy's fertile (fetid?) imagination? OK, I admit that when I attended the MLSF premiere I was in a bit of a tizzy, having: (a) lied to my husband, (b) conned my sweet, elderly mother-in-law into watching my children, and (c) driven, white-knuckled, across state lines into a city that I wasn't sure had appropriate parking. But I definitely think the reviewer is mistaken about the "apparent offscreen rape." I certainly wouldn't have recommended this film to you folks, Colin notwithstanding, if the character he played was a rapist. I expound mo e on this at 121, and await the opinions of others who see the film. However, I strongly believe the reviewer is mistaken. I also don't think Roger Ebert et al would have found anything about this film "charming" if it had included a rape. The "lesbians" I do recall, and they were on the whole harmless and mildly amusing.

Oh, and I forgot to add: Bethan, have a wonderful holiday in France! And Gi, Elena, Mannen, great to have you all back!

Interview with Jeanne Tripplehorn in the Sunday Times in which she mentions RV with Colin Firth. http://www.the-times.co.uk/news/pages/Times/frontpage.html?1642025

(Bethan) "He was handsome and bold and pleasant, off-hand and gay and kind. He struck her invariably as gallant and splendid... 'Nuff said. I want to see it. (OK, I'm superficial) ;-p (Susan) I also don't think Roger Ebert et al would have found anything about this film "charming" if it had included a rape. Yeah, Roger tends to have better taste than that. I agree. These guys are tranferring (I believe that is the psychological term) what they would've done in the film. Doesn't happen and wasn't meant to imply it. Thanks for finding the interview, Evelyn. Did you see the one in the Britain section with everyone's favorite PR person? Lord Puttnam? Small mention of MLSF at end, but there is a pic since you wanted to see what he looked like. More trashing of Hollywood (yawn, yawn), although I do agree with him. Thought that maybe a date for opening in the UK might be given, but no. :(

Am still here (we leave very early tomorrow am!) A parting shot! My theory about "Turn of the Screw" confirmed. Yesterday's Independent had snippet that Colin Firth (as "The Master" (ie the bachelor uncle)) and Jodhi May who has just appeared in the BBC's "The Aristocrats" and also was in "Last of the Mohicans" will star in TOTS for the BBC(?). Enjoy MLSF!

To All: EileenG and I saw MLSF yesterday. My review is HERE. There are some spoilers. IMO there was a boorish, over the line unwanted incident with Heloise. You saw only the beginning of it, but you heard more, there was a recovered choker later that gave another clue, and Edward himself, in the climatic scene, taunted Malcolm the Uncle with a disclosure about he and Heloise. I just loved the movie, though, as you can see if you read my review. Eileen, what did you think? Murph

Has everyone seen the Colin question in today's Parade magazine? The one that Heide pointed out last week? OK, who here is going under the name Leonard Koch, in Columbus, Ohio? ;-D Q. I have a few qauestions about Colin Firth, who won my heart with his touching performance as Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice on the A&E Network. Why did he take on the unsympathetic role of Gywneth Paltrow's husband-to-be in Shakespeare in Love? And which does he think is more demanding: movies or the stage? - Leonard Koch, Columbus, Ohio A. "It's boring to play the same kind of role again and again," says the British actor, whose role as an eccentric inventor/father in the new film My Life So Far displays both his light and dark sides. "I can't be shy about playing the absurd parts of myself, like this immature man who makes an ass of himself before finding redemption." As for movies vs. the stage, the theatrically trained Firth, 38, surprisingly says: "I don't think the test of an actor is the stage. Film work is harder, because there s less continuity, and it requires more concentration and imagination to sustain a whole performance." Firth will be working in London the rest of this year, first on a film--Londinium, a comedy with Mariel Hemingway--then in a three-character play.

this immature man who makes an ass of himself Sounds to me like he attempts to kiss her and perhaps a little too enthusiastically...only.

(Karen)Sounds to me like he attempts to kiss her and perhaps a little too enthusiastically...only. Oh I hope so. The references to rape have left a bad taste in my mouth!

Sounds like we'll have to each come to our own conclusion about this infamous scene. Suits me just fine. I can't wait to see it so I can join in the discussion with Susan, Jana, Mary, Eileen, et al. who here is going under the name Leonard Koch, in Columbus, Ohio? ;-D My question too. Why did it have to be a "Leonard"? I want the world to know that ODB still sends FEMALE hearts aflutter. By the way there is a picture from MLSF with the question though in my copy it's a bit blurry so not very flattering.

Thanks, Murph. If you think this movie is good, I believe it is and am very happy about it. I know you�re all thinking about MLSF now so I feel funny to bring up something as old as ATA but I want to say a couple of words about it because I saw it today for the first time. It�s available on video in Finland now and it took me a v-e-r-y long time to watch it because of all the re-rewinding and slo-mo..... Ooh, isn�t he GORGEOUS in it! It�s almost unbearable. Of course his role in that movie is mainly to be gorgeous and he sure does that well. But some of those gentle, intelligent expressions in his face and that lovely way of using his voice give clearly away that he is in a far too simplistic role here. Colin makes Jess look very mysterious, he seems to be a bit too good to be true in those circles. Btw the film in whole wasn�t as bad as I expected. Don�t know really why it has been so terribly unsuccesful.

Still hanging around! Re. the encounter in the hay with Heloise. I haven't seen it, so this is just conjecture, but I should think we are just left to imagine a clumsy and unsuccessful attempt at a kiss/grope, or certainly something that stops several stages short of "rape", although the physical lust side would have to be stressed in order to make Edward's change of character convincing. Also, and I know I have been critical of David Puttnam for being a bore, but he is a devout Christian, and someone who over the years has often spoken up in support of traditional family values. I can't see him couuntenancing the idea of rape in one of "his" movies.

" Colin Firth, who won my heart with his touching performance as Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice on the A&E Network" ( Karen)..who here is going under the name Leonard Koch, in Columbus, Ohio? ;-D I wonder?...it's got to be a female... Whoever heard of a man making a statement about another man:"...won my heart with his touching performance".... Good to see his name in US media though.... ....My Life So Far displays both his light and dark sides. Think this guy is referring to the "hay-loft" scene as the "dark side" Couldn't it have been consensual and not rape? Of course, the former would not be considered as rape. I bet they added this part...wasn't in the book.And Ben certainly didn't mention it when he saw it over a year ago.

(Elena, Re: ATA )Ooh isn�t he GORGEOUS in it! But some of those gentle, intelligent expressions in his face and that lovely way of using his voice I quite agree! *sigh* I disliked the movie, but he was lovely in it, and you're right about his voice, I love the way he says "How about a walk?", and his hands on her neck! Ohhh... I just saw "An Ideal Husband", and think he would have been wonderful as Sir Robert...

(Heide) Why did it have to be a "Leonard"? I want the world to know that ODB still sends FEMALE hearts aflutter. Maybe they forgot to add "Mrs" in front of Leonard Koch? ;-D (Elena) Ooh, isn�t he GORGEOUS in it! It�s almost unbearable No disputing that one! The good parts of the movie: (Bethan) a clumsy and unsuccessful attempt at a kiss/grope, or certainly something that stops several stages short of "rape"...I can't see him [Puttnam] couuntenancing the idea of rape in one of "his" movies. Exactly. Having been *inspired* by Forman's book, I doubt he would seriously want to trash the man's father like that as well. (will be listening careefully to those noises

BTW, where is Eileen? Hasn't she yet recovered from seeing Colin yesterday? ;-D

BTW, where is Eileen? She has posted on 121. Or have you been playing with your "forget" button. I know someone who can help you out :-))

Many of the interviews called this movie about a man and his son coming of age charming and the tone (and ending) sounds upbeat. A rape (unpunished, no less) just could not be part of MLSF. Edward may be eccentric, but not violently depraved, surely.

Hee hee! I'm here, my dear. Go read my MLSF novella over at 121. It was most enjoyable to watch ODB in the company of other Firthfans! I'm catching up with all the posts since Friday afternoon. It's apparent to me the MSNBC reviewer is one who doesn't "get it"--again, by that I mean that the story is told through the eyes of a 10-year old. However, the ??rape makes for great discussion. Wish all of you could see this movie with Karen next week! Thanks for those Jess snappies, Karen! For me, Jess was a disappointment (but he looks great!). There was so much more to the character in the book (and, as has been discussed before, likely the pre-edit script). LOL about Leonard Koch. The picture is the same as Friday's NY Times but it looks much better in Parade.

Lisbeth says: I haven't seen it, so this is just conjecture, but I should think we are just left to imagine a clumsy and unsuccessful attempt at a kiss/grope, or certainly something that stops several stages short of "rape", although the physical lust side would have to be stressed in order to make Edward's change of character convincing. Lisbeth: Some spoilers in my answer: That is exactly what I think happened. Not rape or near rape, just a rather crude attempt to win her, more like an adolescent than a man. When you see the film, you will understand that the scene is important to show Edward's character. He even says in the scene, "Kiss me....Like you kissed Fraser." And she replies, "But Edward, Fraser is a child." As I said in my review, he is a child too. His children love him and worship him until they begin to grow up and to see the cracks in his armor. He needs tragedy and his wife's chastisement to grow up a bit himself. His final scene with Fraser shows how far he finally comes. Trust me, the "Moss in the Attic" scene is not something terrible, just a fleshing out of how E feels about Heloise, and what kind of man he is. The picture is truly one everyone will enjoy. It has a lot of depth, and I didn't expect that. Murph

...now show me the way to get to #121, so I can read Eileen's novella! I have no idea how to get to anything other than this page, and the "new" posts! Murph

Great snappys, Karen. Btw, that�s actually a bit darcyesque look he has in his face at the door. And he�s so cute there when he says to Lange, "about a minute". I watched ATA again a moment ago, partly (and you know perfectly well which parts.) I love him in those white shirts! And all the shirts as a matter of fact, he looks so wonderfully broad-shouldered and masculine in them. And I love it when he jogs along the roadside in those loose grey trousers.....!! He looks better in ATA than in any of the films I�ve seen so far.

I guess you like ATA then Elena, not high on my best film list but definitely droolable. When I went to see it at the cinema with my sister, there were only 5 people in the cinema including us!!

OT.BTW Evelyn, Tineke says B&H is showing in Belgium.

(Ann) I guess you like ATA then Elena No, as a whole it�s not a film that one can like, it has many weaknesses of course but I�m very relieved to see that it�s not complete crap, it�s just a bit boring and mediocre. Beforehand I thought it must be really terrible, knowing how unsuccessful it has been everywhere. Making Jess a more substantial character (and giving Colin much more screen time) would really have made it a better movie. And I think Jessica Lange is not very brilliant in it, surprisingly. But aaahh what a tender look Colin gives her between those kisses! Sorry folks if you�re all fed up with this, I know you have discussed ATA over and over but I couldn�t take part in it at the time. This situation will be repeated too, I�ll tell you what I think about MLSF in the next millenium, probably!

(Elena).Sorry folks if you�re all fed up with this, I know you have discussed ATA over and over but I couldn�t take part in it at the time. Elena....we enjoy anyone's posts when they're exhuberant about ODB as you are. And it even inspired Karen to crank up some ATA pics we hadn't seen in a long time.IMO we were disappointed with ATA because it had been hyped so much.... "Oscar nominations" roles..and it came from a Pulitzer-Prize book. MLSF, on the contray, has not...so we're all quite pleased:-) But keep goin Elena....brings to mind drooly moments.I might even go and watch it again....

(Murph) Lisbeth says: I haven't seen it, so this is just conjecture, but I should think we are just left to imagine a clumsy and unsuccessful attempt at a kiss/grope, or certainly something that stops several stages short of "rape", although the physical lust side would have to be stressed in order to make Edward's change of character convincing. What do you mean "Lisbeth says"???? That is what Bethan posted earlier today verbatim!! (Allison) Or have you been playing with your "forget" button. I know someone who can help you out :-)) Very funny!! I know how to push all the *right* buttons!! ;-D I think I'm going to hold off on reading 121 for now. (I'll read it as soon as I get home from the movie on August 4.) As is, I've read way too much and hope that it doesn't affect watching the movie. Most of the reviews I've just skimmed, looking for Colin comments. I don't want the reviewers' POV and interepretations to color my thinking. *****Murph, to get to 121, you can either change the number in the url above or hit the button on the top or bottom of the page that says "Next Topic." You will likely get 120 first (which Terry set up for JFK Jr. news) but the next one in order will be our MLSF Spoiler Topic. (Eileen) The picture is the same as Friday's NY Times but it looks much better in Parade. Or here: (Elena) Sorry folks if you�re all fed up with this, I know you have discussed ATA over and over Not really, Elena. We've only just superficially trashed it. Never done a real discussion about it at 98. Perhaps we should, although I think we might be doing Apartment Zero next. Lots of people (OK, Moon) have been lobbying for it. And AnnW, I saw ATA the day it opened and there were about a dozen people in the audience. Well, it was a matinee... ;-D

Oh Karen...thank you...this pic is much better...you can see he has his eyes closed. Savoring the moment....

Karen says: What do you mean "Lisbeth says"???? That is what Bethan posted earlier today verbatim!! *********** Karen: Is my face red. I meant Bethan's Drool name - Lizbeth54! I apologize to everyone. It is the heat around here - 95 plus. Murph

After reading the comment about an "off-screen rape" from an NBC reviewer, my first reaction was "what rape?" I saw "a clumsy and unscuccessful attempt at a kiss and a grope" as Bethan stated. I hope I'm not spoiling anything, but, Edward just wanted a kiss as Heloise had given Fraser. She states that he is a child. Heloise then gives Edward a peck on the cheek. When he attempts more, she screams and they have words. That is all, IMO. Besides when she returns to the castle and looks at the mirror, she seems more concerned for the loss of the choker that Morris gave her than the loss of her virtue (that's why I doubt there was a rape). There are a few more scenes which I feel supports this Hope you don't mind my venting, but I just had to give my opinion on the subject. JanaJH, sorry I missed you, I went to the matinee performance. No one from Miramax was there to question the audience ... and not at this morning's viewing at the Westside Pavilion. Again, it was a small theater, but it was packed and audience enjoyed themselves. I overheard a couple of ladies say, "what a joy" and "I loved it."

You've been twice Marianne?, I am so envious, did you like it as much the second time around. Please join the discussion on 121 re MLSF, I love reading everyone's opinions. Unlike Karen, I don't mind hearing what everyone has to say it only adds to the anticipation but I understand Karen why you do not won't to know too much and the 4th August is not far away, you lucky lady.

Hey, go right ahead and discuss!! I can skim right over the stuff. No big deal. I'll live. ;-D

Marianne, Murph, Susan and others who have commented on the so-called rape - just a quickie to say I agree with you. I thought Edward was trying to do a fumbly, teenage, kissy thing only. I'll post more at 121 later today. I hope to see you all there!

(Marianne) I hope I'm not spoiling anything, but, Edward just wanted a kiss as Heloise had given Fraser. She states that he is a child. Heloise then gives Edward a peck on the cheek. When he attempts more, she screams and they have words. That is all, IMO. Marianne, thanks for confirming that I'm not losing my mind. I also thought it was nothing more than a clumsy attempt at a kiss. In fact, I think the audience I was with even laughed when Heloise screamed. Not to belabor the point, but... I seem to recall that, when MLSF was being filmed, either Colin or a reporter described Edward as "an eccentric inventor who *comes close to* deceiving his wife," or something like that. And further support that Edward isn't a rapist is in Colin's remark in today's Parade magazine describing Edward as "an immature man who makes an ass of himself..." -- someone who had actually raped his future sister-in-law would be far worse than an ass;-)

Ann W, what's not to enjoy about gazing at CF in rapt attention. Yes, I liked MLSF just as much the second time around ... I promise you, you'll be laughing and smiling once you see it.

As boys used to say (and maybe still do), Edward was trying to "cop a feel"!! ;-D

I'm so tempted to peek at 121 but I shall try to restrain myself for two more weeks. I'm glad there are enough of you lucky girls to maintain a rousing conversation over there. Elena)I feel funny to bring up something as old as ATA but I want to say a couple of words about it because I saw it today for the first time. First of all, I've forgotten to welcome you back, Elena. We've missed you. Secondly, talk all you want about ATA! I just watched it again (well, parts of it) yesterday and my oh my, he is something to drool over, isn't he. Karen, you pegged the perfect shot of him leaning in the doorway. And yes, Elena, love that jogging scene. Forget the histrionics, we can just concentrate on sweetie looking very fine and lean. I wish we could have seen more of him. For instance, I'd have loved to see him actuall play baseball rather than stand in the outfield looking a bit out of his depth. Tell me, Elena. Now that you're watching this film multiple times, do you find yourself turning it off after the courtroom scene? No more Colin.

(Heide) Tell me, Elena. Now that you're watching this film multiple times, do you find yourself turning it off after the courtroom scene? No more Colin. Oh, do others do this as well? ;-D

What a coincidence. Oh to see Colin in tights... Noticed this in The Times: FIRST NIGHT: Debra Craine sees the Royal Ballet unveil the world premiere of The Turn of the Screw What evil lurks within the heart When you are telling a ghost story, atmosphere is everything. And thanks to Steven Scott's inspired design conception, William Tuckett's dance adaptation of The Turn of the Screw has atmosphere to spare. The evil of Henry James's novel hangs over the Sadler's Wells stage like a murky and intractable fog. It shrouds the Governess and her two young charges in an indefinable menace which seems to suck them into the very walls of their haunted country house. It can do this because Scott's set projections are magic tricks of light that summon up ghostly images of house and garden through which the dancers pass with a spectral ease. The inside-outside effect, like the story itself, is elusive and intriguingly ambiguous. Tuckett's handling of the narrative is less satisfactory, strong on suggestion but over-elaborate in detail. His one great idea is to cast a male dancer in the role of Miss Jessel, not to give the part any connotation of "drag" but to strip the character of her sexuality and thus give her an otherworldliness entirely fitting to the plot. Her relationship to Peter Quint, and to the children, here becomes even more ominous and oblique. Having two men as his ghosts allows Tuckett to create a strong predatory dance language for them, while contrasting that for the Governess, which unfolds in slowly developing phrases coloured by a strange yearning. His choice of music, Andrzej Panufnik's Arbor cosmica, a set of "12 Evocations for 12 Strings", is full of mood but not as theatrical as the ballet would clearly like. The casting is superlative. Zenaida Yanowsky is an elegant dancer possessed of wonderfully long lines, but as the Governess she proves herself a first-class actress. There is a handsome Victorian propriety to her that struggles heroically against the wildness of the violence and sexual hunger which surround her. Irek Mukhamedov is the creepy Peter Quint, a powerful malevolence whose abusive pursuit of young Miles (Ricardo Cervera) is truly dangerous and unsettling. A bald-headed Bruce Sansom is a nightmarish Miss Jessel in a gown, relishing a rare opportunity to recast himself in evil guise. And it's great to welcome back Monica Mason to the stage. Mrs Grose may be a small part but there is nothing small about the impression Mason creates. ********** Is Colin's character supposed to be creepy? Do you think he'll go see this?

Well I telephoned Miramax today and they say there is still no definite release date for the UK, could be October but more likely November, good for the ladies coming over to see 3DOR in November, they will be able to see it here as well as having seen it in the US!!! She told me to ring back in a couple of months when she should have a definite date. She did, however, say that it might be shown at the London Film Festival, does anyone know when that is and that if anyone belongs to the BFI we can get ad ance information, does anyone lurking or not belong to the BFI and when is the LFF? The reason it is not being shown at the Edinburgh FF is because it was not ready in time.Surely it wil be released before Colin gets involved in 3DOR and rehearsals. 3-4 months is just too long to wait!!

(Heide)my oh my, he is something to drool over, isn't he. Oh, YES.....and to think that he had his arm around you Heide, not so long ago!!! I suppose you haven�t washed your raincoat after that? :-) (Heide)do you find yourself turning it off after the courtroom scene? I watched ATA only once from beginning to the end and now I�m interested in the Colin moments only.(Michelle Pfeiffer is great in it too IMO.) I�m not sure if there is material enough to discuss ATA more thoroughly except for Colin�s performance which I think is interesting in many ways. For instance: Do you think he really fits in this role? Jess is supposed to be just a handsome, charming and irresponsible farm guy but Colin makes him look much more than that. Maybe he looks a bit more mature than Jess is supposed to be.

Ann - when is the LFF? 3-18 November. Programme will not be available until late September. Disappointing news still from Miramax.

(Ann W) ...3-4 months is just too long to wait!! Agreed, but IMO, autumn (the later the better) is the right time for this film to be released. Maybe Miramax is hoping for BAFTA recognition and will promote the h*** out of MLSF in the UK, after the good critical notices it has received here. And you will, at least, see it. Are we ever going to see FP on the big screen - I would so like to have the adorable Paul up close and big.

From The Hollywood Reporter this a.m.: "Miramax debuted 'My Life So Far' in five sites and took in an estimated $50,000. The coming-of-age drama averaged a solid $10,000 per theater..." "solid" - sounds encouraging :)

So perhaps they will start pushing it a bit harder, come on Miramax, publisize it ast least as well as you did for AIH. BTW how did that do in the US, it was only as moderate hit over here. Hi Aishling, thanks for that info. and there was I thinking we would be getting to see it earlier if it was shown at the LFF. She did say there would be a Premiere, how to get tickets?!

A belated welcome, Marianne! C'mon over to 121 for more detailed MLSF discussion. Re: the "rape": It's likely the MSNBC reviewer didn't take the time to consider the social mores of 1920s Scotland. Merely making a pass at another woman would be cheating back then. These days, certain world leaders have oral sex which isn't really sex and therefore isn't cheating! If you mistakenly apply today's much looser moral values to the situation in the movie, you'd come to the erroneous conclusion that Edward had sex with Heloise. (Lynda) Maybe Miramax is hoping for BAFTA recognition and will promote the h*** out of MLSF in the UK I hope I'm wrong, but I wouldn't be holding my breath for any big Miramax promotion. The MLSF ad in yesterday's NY Times was so small I had to search carefully for it. On its opening weekend, no less! It started in Cannes and has become ever more apparent they're not sinking a whole lotta dough into promoting this movie (as opposed to 'IH'). But let's see what happens as it opens in more cities across the US.

"Miramax debuted 'My Life So Far' in five sites and took in an estimated $50,000. The coming-of-age drama averaged a solid $10,000 per theater..." Yeeeeesssssss! Ohh, Harvey....now how about a few TV commercials?

A solid start, excellent, hey Eileen and Jana, and everyone else are you going to copy Marianne and go for a second and third! time, must keep the momentum going and Karen will you be taking a car load when you go on the 4th! Oh I wish I could be there and go with you all, its so exciting, but I guess Aishling, Bethan, Lizza, Allison & I will just have to be patient, at least she didn't say there aren't any plans to release it in the UK, she wouldn't have dared! Heide when are you going to see it?

just a quickie hello to everyone... hi! things have been very hectic as i've just started a new summer job. I'm playing hooky (somwhat) from work this a.m... will try to be a good firthette like marianne and jana, and go see MLSF.

(Ann) I will just have to be patient Dear Ann, in this case you are actually quite lucky to live in the UK and not somewhere else in Europe. I�m sure you�ll see MLSF this year! But I and many others will have to wait for yearS, possibly. My earliest chance to see it is if the release date of the film is so close to the end of the year that it could still run in London in January! But I guess that�s not very probable. How long do films usually go in the cinemas in Britain if they get the normal quantity of audience? Hmmm.....if it�ll open in London in November, could it possibly last two months??

Hello, Dame Winter! I�m posting from work as well........a baaad habit :-)

It could still be going into January, Elena if it does reasonably well. Hello Winter, look forward to hearing what you think of MLSF. BTW I don't quite understand Miramax's strategy, wouldn't it be best to release MLSF wider this weekend whilst it is doing relatively well rather than wait a fortnight when people may have forgotten about it, not us of course but the general film paying public.

sup?

(Ann) BTW I don't quite understand Miramax's strategy I'm beginning to wonder if they're trying to copy the same "word of mouth" strategy they used with SiL in the early, pre-Oscar hype days. But the pre-release buzz about SiL was very strong. There's been no buzz about MLSF other than "it's been on the shelf for two years, what's wrong with it?" Time will tell...

(AnnW) wouldn't it be best to release MLSF wider this weekend whilst it is doing relatively well rather than wait a fortnight when people may have forgotten about it Important thing to remember is that reviews have NOT appeared in the local papers of the next 8 cities. The reviews have only been in NY/LA papers and national-type places (newspapers and internet news sites). In the next 8 cities, they have barely heard a whisper about this movie, especially as there are have been no ads in the papers or commercials on TV (not to mention the dearth of trailers in the theaters)!! Also, there's the issue of screens. The Blair Witch expands this coming weekend and you better believe it's going to take over a lot of screens. It's playing around the corner from me on 3/4 screens. Walked past the place and there was a sign up saying all shows were sold out. Earlier questions re: An Ideal Husband: Did poorer than anticipated (wasted promotional money) and is moving to the second-run theaters.

Good to hear from you Aishling. You always bring us good statistics. Good to hear about the London FF. ******* Ann, BFI has a website...call them in London. They're in Soho ..not far from ICM. They will gladly sell you a ticket. Last year, they previewed B&H. ****** (Karen) TOTS .....creepy Peter Quint, a powerful malevolence whose abusive pursuit of young Miles (Ricardo Cervera) is truly dangerous and unsettling. Another gay implication? Doesn't this guy ever take "plain Joe-Six-Pack"roles? Thank god for Joe Prince!! ****** The later it opens in London, the better our chances of seeing it in mid-Jan. but I bet they release it before 3 DOR starts ... I will be disappointed if it isn't a run-a-way success in UK.

So willI, I have already arranged for a part of friends to come with me when it does eventually open. BTW I told the publicity lady this morning that my friends in America who had seen MLSF were raving about it, hope thats okay!!

party

So willI, I have already arranged for a part of friends to come with me when it does eventually open. BTW I told the publicity lady this morning that my friends in America who had seen MLSF were raving about it, hope thats okay!!

(Eileen)But the pre-release buzz about SiL was very strong. There's been no buzz about MLSF SIL was the most expensive movie that Miramax has ever produced....$40 Mil. Also SIL had two US actors that are "heavy -hitters"; GP & BA.They worked their buns off for this film.MLSF cost $10. Mil.Miramax must figure they'll get their money back on it. Let's hope so. Karen, did you say that the reason that MLSF is not being shown at the Edinburgh FF is that it wasn't finished in time ??

No, I did!

I meant to comment on that Edinburgh thing. What a crock!! The final date for submission at Edinburgh was end of April as I recall (that was all the information available at their website for the longest time). And when was it shown at Cannes? Puh-leeez! When I look at the program for Edinburgh, I hardly think this film fits in with the New Wave British/Scottish films that are being showcased. The opening night one is that Scottish Ratsomething movie that played in Cannes.

(Eileen) Re: the "rape": It's likely the MSNBC reviewer didn't take the time to consider the social mores of 1920s Scotland. Merely making a pass at another woman would be cheating back then. Considering that he only got a few other details wrong too (Fraser is a "12-year-old...) I begin to question whether Mr. Bob Campbell took the time to pay attention to the movie at all. Who was it said that "interviews often tells us more about the interviewer than the interviewee"? Perhaps the same can be said for certain REVIEWS!! He read that "rape" into it so he could have something to be outraged enough to give him an excuse to trash it, IMHO.

Don't despair about waiting so long to see it in your cinema, Elena. MLSF may be in video by Christmas and you know we like to share the wealth.;-) Something probably better discussed in springfolks. Ann, since I'm in a "second-tier" city, I expect to see MLSF August 7. Glad to see you've got a carload ready to go with you. (Karen) Oh to see Colin in tights Or those bulging muscles. LOL!! What a picture.

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Sorry about that Heide. :-( I wonder which "tier" Seattle is in.....:-(

Isn't Seattle in the Top 10? It should be playing there August 6.

Apparently MLSF is #48 in the Box Office this weekend, well done ladies, tell all your friends about it so that when it gets a wider release it will be much much higher. Come on Harvey gives us a little help, more publicity please!!!

Apparently MLSF is #48 in the Box Office this weekend ] But there are only 47 movies open??? (hee hee, that is humor!)

Finally, I did get to log on. I have missed reading all the posts. I think that it must be my computer. I read a little article in Madem. About MLSF and they are giving it a great review. I cannot wait to see it. Whenever, you get to see CF that much it really makes your day, week, month, year. I am sure that SIL will be at the video stores soon! Hi Ann and Evelyn. Long time.

Just had an email from Adi...our Firth-sister in Israel. She is traveling in the US and Canada this summer. Retrieved my email and booked her tickets for 3 DOR. She will join us at the Millennium Spring Reunion on Jan. 15th. Cool, uh?

Good to see you back on line, Rita! Adi's timing couldn't be better. She should be able to catch MLSF in one of the big cities, unless she's doing the nature thing (Grand Canyon, Yosemite, etc.) ;-D AnneR, who has misplaced her password, found this in today's Guardian: Manx's pony� Meanwhile, Billy Baldwin (not to be confused with his fellow actor brothers Daniel, Stephen or Mike) is another one rejecting the mainland, as he flies in to the Isle of Man later this week to start a month-and-a-half-long stint shooting Noel Coward's Relative Values alongside an "all-star" cast including Julie Andrews, Colin Firth, Stephen Fry and Sophie (sister of Emma) Thompson.

Come on Harvey give us a little help, more publicity please!!! Re: publicity -- next month Miramax's new maggie "Talk" is supposed to hit the stands. Tina Brown, formerly of Vanity Fair, is the editor, famous for knowing how to "create buzz" (i.e. the famous Demi Moore pregnant nude cover). Would not this publication be the ideal vehicle for a nice, in-depth feature article/interview/cover story on ODB?

Here's People Magazine's MLSF review (from the 8/2/99 issue): My Life So Far Colin Firth, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio [no picture :-(] Growing up in a misty castle in rural Scotland in the mid-30's, the 10-year-old (Robert Norman) at the center of this minor coming of age movie barely notices that his beloved dad (Firth), a dilettante inventor, and mom (Mastrantonio) are drifting apart. Basically the boy is too busy perusing Victorian sex manuals left in the attic by his grandpa to realize that his father has a crush on another woman (Irene Jacob). My Life So Far, directed by Hugh Hudson (Chariots of Fire), is an elegant mood piece, as decorative and delicate as fine lace and no less superfluous. The Scottish scenery, however, is a knockout. (PG 13) Bottom line: pat period piece but easy on the eyes. Well, it's not great, but they didn't kill it all together. BTW, the scenery is not what makes it easy on the eyes...wait until you see CF in those costumes! The Entertainment Weekly review (posted by Karen last Friday) appears in this week's issue along with the standard picture of CF hugging MEM (it was a nice size and you can tell his eyes are open, Evelyn). They gave it a C :-(. There's nothing about MLSF in this week's Newsweek.

Cool indeed about Adi, Evelyn! What a group!I just know I'll be banging my head on the wall for not going! Rita, always good to have you with us! Can you not go back to the posts you missed and read them? Let me (us)know if I (we)can help.

Murph has two new "hold-on-to -your-hat" pics of ODB on the Home Page. One is an "up, close and personal"of DB signing autographs at SIL. http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/index.html ******* (Gi)Re;Millennium Reunion I just know I'll be banging my head on the wall for not going! A weekend in London to celebrate the new Millenium...? You wouldn't have to attend THE PLAY . You ('n A.) could just meet us for the dinner.... and go on to see something else on the West End. TRT might be on.With luck even MLAF. Tempting? I'm sure we can work up a perfectly innocentscenario :-)

(Karen)"...as he flies in to the Isle of Man later this week to start a month-and-a-half-long stint shooting Noel Coward's Relative Values alongside an "all-star" cast including Julie Andrews, Colin Firth," Hmmm, I think I like the description of CF as an all-star! And Hi, winter. It's good to see you here. Missed ya, honey :-). P.S. I experimented with embedding bold text within italics. I hope I did it right and apologize in advance if I screw up the tags.

Hi Rita, good to have you with us again, will you get a chance to see MLSF, are you anywhere near Dallas, I believe it opens there on the 6th August.?

(Karen) Isn't Seattle in the Top 10? It should be playing there August 6. Lynda was so good to report on that matter last July 7 (Thank you!). According to her librarian, the top 10 markets were: NY, LA, Chicago, Baltimore/DC, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Boston, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Detroit, Atlanta. Don't see Seattle in there anywhere. (*SOB*) :-(

Financial Times Review of the play PRIDE & PREJUDICE currently on at the Stratford FF in Canada. (Laura and Teg attended and gave us their reivew) Financial Times: ". Another entry in the Family Entertainment stakes was Christina Calvit's adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, which was very well done. Geordie Johnson's Darcy vied with the BBC's Colin Firth in the strong-but-choked division, though denied any wet see-through shirt. Lucy Peacock captured Austen's prickly, articulate, slightly waspish Elizabeth far more closely than the BBC's wet-eyed heroine, appealing though she was. But the second half fell back upon endless narrations of off-stage events, and it beca e a mere reading, not a real play at all" **** Oh yeah... No wet shirt...no Darcy.!!And "wet-eyed" indeed...how about "twinkling" .

OK, so I didn't have the Top 10 memorized! ;-D How on earth can Detroit be in there? No one lives in Detroit. OK, who am I offending? Your embedded tags worked just perfect, Jana. Congrats. I too liked seeing Colin included in a list of "all stars." I've also liked that most of critics consider the MLSF cast top notch actors. Would be nice if they singled Colin out in a positive way though... BBC's Colin Firth in the strong-but-choked division, though denied any wet see-through shirt. hee hee No one else can measure up in all the important categories!! ;-D

Lucy Peacock captured Austen's prickly, articulate, slightly waspish Elizabeth far more closely than the BBC's wet-eyed heroine, appealing though she was. Are they kidding? JE is Elizabeth Bennet.

Are they kidding? JE is Elizabeth Bennet. ] Lucy Peacock was GREAT!!! and she more resembled Austen's description of Lizzy then JE did.

(Laura)Lucy Peacock was GREAT!!! and she more resembled Austen's description of Lizzy then JE did . Can "you document that" or is that IYO. (hee hee)

Can "you document that" or is that IYO. (hee hee) ] I have a picture of both the actors playing Elizabeth and Darcy, I could scan it in and you can figure it out for yourselves. But I think most people here would criticize the looks of the actors because they are not CF and JE. However Lucy Peacock is a beautiful woman in her own right. And the man who played Darcy is very handsome in his own right. I'll scan the pic and send to someone to make it HTML friendly. You guys make up your own mind.

Please do, Laura, I would like to see them. But also remember that looks aren't the only thing that counts here... "They must have a certain air, ecc" ;-)

Oh, I have only posted once but after reading the above, could not contain myself. Yes, looks are inportant but the main characters must have chemistry and they had it in spades. They are the quintensential Darcy & Elizabeth--they didn't have to have dialogue, their eyes & body language said it all. Why else, you might ask, would the UK,US & the pacific rim. go completely bananas over this version.Thru the kindness of Evelyn, I have been priviledged to view other JE films & have become a staunch fan, Sh is beautiful, multi-talented and she and CF were fated to make this film. They ARE DARCY & ELIZABETH.

There are three new clips from MLSF available to view. The first one (Slank) is Malcolm McDowell; the second (Moss) is Irene Jacob and kid, with Colin's head peeking up into the mossloft; and the third (grey hair) is Rosemary Harris and the kid. Wot?!!!! Nothing featuring the STAR of the movie!! Sheesh!! (Do I sound ticked?) They are relatively smaller files than the trailer, so go to it.. ;-D http://www.nytimes.com/library/film/072399life-film-review.1.ram.html

(Laura) Lucy Peacock was GREAT!!! and she more resembled Austen's description of Lizzy then JE did. The only description of Lizzy's appearance in the book is that she had dark eyes. There is another passage in chapter 49, where she is described as being "lighter" than Jane. Jane Austen never describes the appearance of the people or buildings in her books, a fact that has been the subject of much discussion among literary critics. I do not question the fact that Lucy Peacock may have been a credible and accurate Elizabeth, but I simply I disagree with the opinion than JE did not portray her as she Jane Austen wrote her. I consider JE's portrayal the definitive one, and will always be EB to me. You have the advantage of having seen the play at Stratford, which the majority of us have not. (EllieP)[JE] is beautiful, multi-talented and she and CF were fated to make this film. They ARE DARCY & ELIZABETH. Hear! Hear!

EllieP)[JE] is beautiful, multi-talented and she and CF were fated to make this film. They ARE DARCY & ELIZABETH. (Lidya)Hear! Hear Thank you Jennifer fans..... LOL. Nothing like a little controversy to stir things up on a borrring HOT summer day. Eh, Laura? (Hey gang....L. and I are good friends...I tease her about postulating opinions....all in good fun ;-) ) But by all means , bring on the pictures...wanna see the generics next to the real thing !! ***** Hey,...I'm having a hard week...over at the P&P board I had to take on criticisms about Lizzie being "fat" and not running gracefully!! All in a day's work :-)

I also say hear, hear and agree that JE is definitely multi-talented and I am of that opinion even more so after seeing her in the thrilling and spell-binding The Real Thing at the Donmar for the second time this week. Back to ODB, according to The Radio Times today, The Turn of the Screw is a one off drama and is due to be screened at Christmas. Wonderful a festive feast of Firth, what with 3DOR, possibly MLSF in the cinema, TTOTS and maybe DQ. One other thing the invisible CF continues, I subscribe to a Film magazine TOTAL FILM and today they reviewed forthcoming videos and gave SIL 4stars, listed the cast including MC and RE and guess who they omitted. I'm seriously thinking of stopping my subscription, I'll show them !! (whom I kidding).

Lizzie fat! - they should see JE now, if anything she is too thin! don't you agree Evelyn?

(Ann) The Turn of the Screw is a one off drama and is due to be screened at Christmas. Merry Firthmas everybody...what a great present.Thanks Ann.But pl. what does "one off drama" mean? Is it a drama in one episode? **** No trailer of CF....not listed for SIL in film mag....CF, "The Stealth Star"!!

CF, "The Stealth Star"!! One of these days we will hear that there will be another remake of "The Invisible Man", and guess with whom in the title role? ;-)

LOL Renate. Yes Evelyn, one-off is a drama in one episode. I wish it was a six episode serial but a one-off is okay as it will probably be a two hour episode.

I believe DQ is a one-off as well, I guess that explains how he can manage to do TTOTS and RV so close to each other.

http://www.aint-it-cool-news.com/tb_display.cgi?id=3969#69325 Been to Harry Knowles' recently? Here's an excerpt of the last message: "There are 32 curling extras here in Argyll, Scotland who'd like to know if the 4 days they spent doing it ended up on the cutting room floor. E Mail please to lengow@drimsynie.co.uk" I think they deserve a reply, don't they?

Yes, I'll scan the picture in. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. I recall the reviewers saying that JE looked heavy in the role of E, but I think costuming had a lot to do with that. She's not willowy. Now RE: chemistry between CF and JE, they were an "item" at the time, that probably had a lot to do with it. Um, Lucy Peacock has dark brown hair, and dark eyes, she is willowy and tallish. (and she is married and has two children, but doesn't look like she's had any! okay, more info than you guys wanted.) Yes, Evelyn and I are good friends, even if I haven't talked to her in ages! (sorry, Evelyn, will be better!) and it is HOT!!!

I am in Ketchikan, Ak visiting my on and his family. I brought my P&P with me . They are crazy about it. Including the 3 teenagers who are back in Bryan's bedroom now watching it for the third time. But then they have good taste.

Laura, JE is definitely willowy NOW. I do think that her weight fuluctuates though, I though she looked terrible thin in the first proposal scene and more rounded but womanly later on and the costumes of course, accentuated this.

JE not willowy enough for some at RoP? Tell me something new. Some people there complain that Colin Firth wasn't tall enough. And some even say that Rintoul (who looked like he had swallowed his walking stick was a better Darcy - even though he couldn't have been taller - chiefly because Colin was showing too much emotion... Can you believe it? Horrors. visiting my on Forgive my ignorance, but what's an on?

Have followed up, Renate. Thanks.

Sorry, I should have put ) after "stick".

on Yapp shorthand for son, I expect. ;-D

Arami, I would imagine visiting my "on" is "son" and obviously the people at RoP haven't seen Jennifer in TRT lately and as for Colin not being tall enough, 6'1" is not tall enough?

Trashing JE amd CF is an old chestnut...some RoP posters go on and on about Elizabeth Garvey (P&P1) and how she played the perfect Lizzie. My answer to that is always..."Oh yeah? Who won the BAFTA?" ***** Eager to see pic of Lucy Peacock..mum of two, playing young unmarried 21 yr.old Lizzie. :-D

Eager to see pic of Lucy Peacock..mum of two, playing young unmarried 21 yr.old Lizzie. :-D LOL!! me too

Sorry last comment about P&P,JE etc, but personally I thought both the prior productions and perforamnces were very wooden indeed, nothing can touch and the performances and production of P&P2.

they brought the book to life for me. (sorry pressed the submit button too soon).

I don't have time enough at this late hour to read back to beginning of July but I thought I give you this site that I came across at RoPMRQE great movie review site and MLSF is there...This review really peaked my interest..here is a tidbit. Director Hugh Hudson devotes considerable time to close- ups of this wonderful man's expressions, each of which tells a story about his feelings at the time, particularly envy of his boorish brother's good luck in catching the gifted Heloise. Review bye Harvey S. Karten critic comuserve.com Just type in My Life so Far and they all show up.

You can tell I haven't done this in a while http://www.MRQE.com

I don't have time enough at this late hour to read back to beginning of July but I thought I give you this site that I came across at RoPMRQE great movie review site and MLSF is there...This review really peaked my interest..here is a tidbit. Director Hugh Hudson devotes considerable time to close- ups of this wonderful man's expressions, each of which tells a story about his feelings at the time, particularly envy of his boorish brother's good luck in catching the gifted Heloise. Review bye Harvey S. Karten critic comuserve.com Just type in My Life so Far and they all show up.

one more time

Oh Donna, thank you, but will you please give us the url again, it didn't come through. BTW, what the h*** is happening with Spring? It seems to be taking a right hand stage departure :-( Help!

Sorry, Donna, it did come through, and works. Thanks. And Spring has apparently reverted to normalcy. Uff!

(Ann) The Turn of the Screw is a one off drama and is due to be screened at Christmas. Wonderful a festive feast of Firth Ho, Ho, Ho! You won't have room for anything else under your tree. Just keep thinking of all this Firth as you wait for MLSF. (Karen) the second (Moss) is Irene Jacob and kid, with Colin's head peeking up into the mossloft This is part of the trailer Miramax offered at their site last year, before the movie was yanked from release. Nothing featuring the STAR of the movie!! Sheesh!! I'd rather have him absent from the trailer vs. the other way around. I hate it when a trailer lures me to the theater and I find it had the best scenes and the rest of the movie was *pew*. Not so with MLSF. Fraser may be the central character, but this is Colin's movie all the way (I know, I'm preaching to the converted). Karen, tonight's the big night, right? Afterwards, come join us at 121. Jana, Susan and I are getting lonely over there ;-) Marianne and Winter, we're still waiting for you!

On second thought, what day is it (*perpetually disoriented to date and time*)? Last night was the big night! And you've not posted at 121 yet? Sheesh! :-D

No, I don't get to see it until NEXT week. Not much of an advance screening: two days before general release! (Originally it was to be Monday, August 2, but the printed invitation says the 4th.)

Hey, Moon should be back right about now. Probably just catching up on all the posts, sneaking in a viewing of FF so that she can join in at 98, and jumping for joy that she didn't completely miss the opening of MLSF or FP (latest word is mid to late September). To recap: All's the same in the world of Firth, except for the new projects announced (Christmas television special of Turn of the Screw) and the announced start of Relative Values on the Isle of Man this weekend - Londinium having been completed.

(Renate) "There are 32 curling extras here in Argyll, Scotland who'd like to know if the 4 days they spent doing it ended up on the cutting room floor. E Mail please to lengow@drimsynie.co.uk" Thanks for posting this, Renate. I did write to Mr. Gow and got the following reply: Hi Anne: Thanks for letting me know. Did you see much change from the preview to the final cut? The curling scene took 4 days to film, including two 5pm till 5am sessions - so I hope it managed more than a couple of minutes. The art department did a superb job in recreating a frozen pond in an old Victorian garden - and with all the fake snow, ice and none fake smoke - the conditions certainly felt like January even though it was filmed in May. Same old story - the critics can slag it but unless it gets into enough theatres then joe public won't have a chance to see it. Thanks for letting me know. Len in Argyll.

From Renate's news, I contacted the curler who worked on MLSF. He was the one who arranged for 30 guys to play in the curling scene. (I assume it was his curling club.) He sent me a newsy little note yesterday. He told me about how boring it was working for the 4 days, two of which were 12 hour days working through the night until dawn). Then he said that he was asked back for another, but blew them off and went to the pub. ;-D He described how they converted an old Victorian walled garden on the estate into the outdoor pond and brought in the fake snow, ice, etc., because they filmed it in May. But the highlight of his note was that he was called in to talk and give a demo to the actors before, while they were rehearsing another scene in the big house. He recognized all of them, hardly believing that he was there and they were all seated around the table. He said that Malcolm McDowell was funny, MEM was friendly and Colin actually asked some questions. At the end, he talked about how beautiful that part of Scotland is and how it should show up well in the movie's cinematography. I've emailed him back for more more more..... ;-D

Thanks Anne & Karen.

Thanks Anne R. and Karen for giving us all the inside from Len, the Head Curler. BTW is curling akin to ice hockey? I never heard of it before the movie was originally going to be titled: "The Roaring Game". Remember, that far back? And Bethan told us the title related to "curling".

Len, the Head Curler. hee hee

I also would like to know what curling is.

So the rusty gears of the Miramax publicity machine turn...first MEM, then Puttnam, now Malcolm McDowell. Can Colin be next up? They do have telephones on the Isle of Man, don't they? ;-D From Jeffrey Walls' column at Mr. Showbiz. Here are the relevant parts: The purpose of the interview was to plub My Life So Far, a quiet little country drama from Miramax that's just opened. Set in the 1920s and directed by Hugh Hudson, it's about issues of loyalty and sexual desire upsetting a family living on a large British estate. McDowell plays a visiting uncle who brings along a pretty French maid (Irene Jacob) who winds up attracting the husband (Colin Firth) and his adolescent son (Robbie Norman). Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Rosemary Harris co-star. Hudson, said McDowell, "is a friend of mine. He called me one day and off I went. It was shot two summers ago. A very charming film. It's a very gentle piece, seen through the eyes of a 12-year-old boy during that very special period during the wars." ********* For the entire article: http://mrshowbiz.go.com/news/Todays_Stories/990729/showcon072999_2.html

(Karen) I don't get to see it until NEXT week Du-uhh. Sorry. *perpetually disoriented to date and time* Told ya. Thanks for sharing your responses from Len the curler, Anne R and Karen. (Evelyn) BTW is curling akin to ice hockey? It looks more like bowling (or bocci ball) to me. The broom bit is curious, though. I think during the last winter olympics a piece was done on this odd (to most of the world) sport. The ice is furiously swept to create some sort of pull on that lump of granite. before the movie was originally going to be titled: "The Roaring Game". Wasn't the first title "World of Moss?" There is only one line referencing 'the roaring game'. We groused about how often the title was changed but MLSF is the most fitting.

Any plans to go a second time Eileen?

I'm scanning the picture of P&P in Stratford tonight. Don't quite know how I'll get to html it, but will work something out. The man who played Darcy is Geordie Johnson and he's also playing Richard II (title role) in Stratfod. They work a gruelling schedule! I like him better in the Richard II pic, if I can find that one, I'll scan it in also.

Have more from our curler Len and he explains a bit more about curling as well. Will post later. ;-D

More from our Head Curler: He first spoke with Colin after the curling demo. Both he and 'wee Fraser' wanted to know how heavy the old curling stones were as well as how you got enough swing to throw them 42 yards on the ice. He explained it was all about technique (the subject of his demo). Also, there are all the calls and commands the 'skip' gives to the team members to sweep or not to sweep the stone. Len said, "It's all the yelling that brings the atmosphere to the game." Then Malcolm McDowell interjected that the only tim he had seen curling was on TV in Toronto and 'to be frank, it was fucking boring!!'. Len did call him a 'Nice chappy' though, who was only trying to be a prat. On another occasion, he commented to Colin that he had just seen TEP and that it must have been warmer in Tunisia than Scotland at 3am. Colin said that, in some of the desert scenes where he is covered in sweat, they had had to spray him as it was early in the morning and freezing. Len also watched a scene where Colin and McDowell are going at each other about a bet concerning Heloise (or as he calls her a French lassie) He thought it was very interesting how it changed with each take. Finally, Len said that he was always nothing less than very pleasant, as all the actors were.

do you guys realize how BORING curling is? Anyway, here is the pic of the two leads in P&P. I couldn't find the one with GJ as Richard II, will look harder. The costumes were interesting.

Did you say Lucy Peacock was playing Lizzie's mother? ;-D

(Laura)The costumes were interesting. Thank you Laura, for sharing the program with us.The Canadian wet- shirtless Mr. Darcy bears a striking resemblance to Lawrence Olivier....I am sure it was a most enjoyable performance....Lucy Peacock looks a little...hmmmm....mature

and it isn't CF as Darcy, the nose and mouth are no where near as cute!

and LP looks a little like MEM (MLSF)

I have a great picture of the two them in the other program, that I can't find where it was taken outside. LP is only about 28/29. She was amazing as Lizzy. The production obviously was very different from the miniseries. And Geordie Johnson is a blonde (or dirty blonde), what he has on is a wig;) If I can find the other pic, I'll scan that one in too. GJ is very handsome too. I have a cast photo with them all, will try and scan that one in later today. Off to the swimming pool!

Many thanks to Karen for a very interesting report from a Scottish head curler - all about an English head turner. But I must protest against turning this place into Geordie Johnson discussion board. Why not start a separate one for him, if you must. Or post it on RoP, they will appreciate different takes on Austen heroes much more. The chap is OK, but to me there is only one Darcy and he ain't Geordie... nor even Olivier... And that actress doesn't look right to me, either.

Geordie looks rather, how shall I put it, ummm, David Rintoul-ish. Sorry, Laura, but you knew you'd be in for it. Love the reports from Scotland, Karen.

I too was just going to post that the P&P (Stratford) discussion be moved over to #72. These Colin topics fill up fast enough as is, without extraneous material like that. If you're going to scan in more pics, please post them there, Laura.

Sorry...I think I started it all..by posting the review from FT about the P&P in Stratford P&P. In it the reviewer mentioned Colin and wet-shirt.The discussion then took off from there on a different tangent....as so often happens around here.Thanks for the reminder....#72 sounds good to me, Laura. Would like to see the other pics.

I just saw MEM on Breakfast with the Arts, and she was full of praise for ODB. They asked her specifically about him (and they mentioned P&P of course). She said she and her husband attended his wedding. Hurray for MEM!

Just saw MEM on Breakfast with the Arts (A&E). She mentioned Colin and how much of a wonder actor he is. Also said her husband and Colin were great friends and that they worked together in AMITC. She also said that during filming she met Livia and then they all went off to C&L's wedding. (Someone from this board did mention this). She also said she was glad that her and Colin did not play lovers--which is very taxing on individuals. (Especially since they are buddies).

Lidya your reporting skills are much faster than mine.

Jana, wasn't it lovely to hear him praised so much? I was all giddy!

OK, have been frantically transcribing the *relevant* part of MEM's interview: EF: The man who plays your husband is Colin Firth, who of course did P&P for us at A&E. Can you tell us a bit about working with him? MEM: Well, Colin and I are old friends. Colin is actually an old friend of my husband's because they did a film together called A Month in the Country, which was a lovely film with Ken Branagh, Natasha Richardson. Beautiful film [eyes closed, nodding]. And they've known each other for years. And Colin and I thought, well, the only way we could ever portray any kind of couple is if we were married. Because if we had to be lovers it would be impossible because the demands of lovers on screen are other han those of a married couple. So confined to chaste kisses and all that. But he's fantastic and he's a dear family friend of ours and who was actually getting married that summer. And it was lovely to spend time with his fiancee. All of us up in Scotland and before we all traipsed off to the wedding. And oh. And he's a fantastic actor [closed eyes, head nodding]. I'd say it's, if you were to read the script and then you watch these scenes and see the humor and pathos that he's extracted and imbued hem with, it's astonishing. It's not astonishing, it's just bloody good acting and you don't see a lot of it. It's not, you're not allowed to see it, it's not that people don't know how to do it, it's just that we're not allowed to see it very often.

FYI, MEM was wearing the same white blouse she wore on her appearance on the Regis and Kathie Lee show. So that must have been *promotions* day!

Wonderful of her to talk about him so warmly, it�s almost overflowing......sounds like she really sincerely likes and respects him. And why wouldn�t she? Thanks for the transcription, Karen. Too bad that Colin couldn�t be in the show.

Oh yes, I'd love to see him interviewed again. Too bad that it only seems to be MEM banging the drum for this film. What is this? Women's work? So glad you got the transcription done, Karen. I didn't tape it and then regretted because she did say so very many lovely things. I'm glad you brought up what we seem to love most about his skill...if you were to read the script and then you watch these scenes and see the humor and pathos that he's extracted and imbued them with, it's astonishing. I think it is astonishing as well as "bloody good acting." The clip did not contain Colin. We could also move the P&P Stratford discussion to 112 if you'd care to continue it. Evelyn and Lidya brought the Darcy topic to life again and Marcia and I have pounced.

shame on me.

It would appear that MEM was only given one cassette that day, as the clip was the same shown on the Regis & KL show too! Bugged me that MEM didn't mention Colin's name until Elliot asked her the question. She kept saying "my husband" every time she referred to him in the movie. She did mention something very new and interesting: that there had been another version of the movie script, done by someone else, which was very different. Probably stayed closer to the real story in Forman's book.

(Karen)She did mention something very new and interesting: that there had been another version of the movie script, done by someone else, which was very different. Probably stayed closer to the real story in Forman's book Now we know why it took so long....a screen version based on the book would have been a real yawner!! Thanks Karen, for the transcription. I thought it was super..."all is forgive MEM for the Kathy & Regis interview!!" ******* And thanks to Silvie for alerting to the interview...Was anyone else watching the clock??I thought Seigi Ozawa would never finish conducting!!

I thought Seigi Ozawa would never finish conducting!! ] HEY!!! It's Seiji and he holds a dear place in my heart!!! :) (Well I am a Bostonian!)

My thanks too for transcribing the interview, Karen. There's a big article on MEM in today's Boston Globe. In it, there's a comment from David Puttnam that Cate Blanchett had been considered to play Moira -- first I had heard about that -- but in the end they thought her too young. (Actually, I think CB is even younger than Irene Jacob, so that would have indeed been weird casting.) Nothing about Colin, though. Relieved to see MLSF does indeed open in Boston this Friday -- albeit at only one theatre in Harvard Square.

No big deal transcribing the *one* answer and besides, it wasn't perfect. Left out a lot of ums and ohs! Thanks for pointing out the MEM article in the Globe, Susan. Very intereting. MEM has certainly thrown herself into being a one-woman publicity machine. Can do nothing but help her odds of being nominated for Limbo. Here's the link to the article: http://www.boston.com/dailyglobe2/213/living/Mother_knows_best+.shtml

Back from our hols in a thunderstorm! Very enjoyable (and hectic!) culture dash round Europe ...Paris, Amsterdam and Brussels. Too much driving, but well worth it, and surprisingly few complaints from sons. The big movie in Paris is "The Blair Witch Project" which has been very cleverly marketed. Rupert Everett (star of SIL!) (le merveilleux Rupert) is also Big. Lots of pics and interviews with him in the magazines. Hate to say this, but marketing and selling oneself (in the nicest possible way) does matt r! Hey, what about it, Monsieur Firth!? It's not astonishing, it's just bloody good acting and you don't see a lot of it. It's not, you're not allowed to see it, it's not that people don't know how to do it, it's just that we're not allowed to see it very often. Oh, sadly too true! Especially in the case of CF! November for MLSF in the UK? Unbelievable. Unless (always look on the bright side of life) Miramax are hoping for a Big Occasion (royal charity premiere or suchlike) The curling scene sounds as though it's been severely truncated...I'd love to see the original 2 hour version of this movie. Seems to me it's a victim of unfavourable first previews last year. Probably shown to an Austin Powers type audience. I like curling ....it's also a major growth sport since last year's TV coverage of the Winter Olympics. Interesting comments from MEM on playing husbands and lovers. I thought all screen kisses were essentially chaste, not the real thing! So TOTS is a Christmas special...great news! I think the Master could be a good role (at least he's handsome and rich and attractive to women). Call me superficial, but sometimes I'd settle for less versatility!

Interesting comments from MEM on playing husbands and lovers. I thought all screen kisses were essentially chaste, not the real thing! Essentially they are... but trying to make a modern passionate mouth-to-mouth look believable on screen or stage, one has to suck the other's lip, there's no way around it, it has to be physical - and then there are looks and the whole body language, etc. - what is commonly termed as chemistry. Actors often go as far as persuading themselves that the attraction is indeed real... that's why we hear about "location flings and romances" (like CF and JE in P&P). And there's nothing wrong with it if the screen partners are unattached in real life - but not so good when married actors fall for it, as they sometimes do. So wise spouses should not leave their real life partners on their own for too long... But nothing can beat a happy marriage and loyalty to one's spouse, of course. In which case, you close your eyes and think of your fat pay check and hope to shoot your passionate love scenes with someone you wouldn't need to meet again too soon.

From britishtheatre.about.com NEWS today "Turn of the Screw begins filming A new version of Henry James' The Turn of the Screw, to be shown on ITV next year, has begun filming. The film stars Pam Ferris, Jodhi May and Colin Firth." **** Is this old news?I though RV was currently filming. Does this guy have the power of bi-location?

Also, is TOTS to be shown on ITV or BBC? The first report said ITV and the second mentioned BBC. Wouldn't it be highly unlikely for any of the ITV affiliates to produce TOTS for airing on BBC? (another snowball situation?) Bi-location? Bettah that than bi-something else! ;-D

you don't know how I'm dying to get over to Topic 121!! Only a few more days. argh!

I love curling. It's very interesting when you try it and don't fall on your a---

Article in Monday's Times: Supreme wit finds eager audience in centenary year, writes Dalya Alberge AFTER Thomas Hardy and Jane Austen, film-makers are turning to No�l Coward. The 100th anniversary of the birth of one of the century's supreme wits has inspired at least eight films, not to mention countless theatre stagings, recordings and books. Negotiations are under way for Nicole Kidman and Rupert Everett to star in an adaptation of Blithe Spirit, and for Joanna Lumley to appear in Hay Fever. A �3.5 million production of Relative Values, starring Julie Andrews, Colin Firth and Stephen Fry, has just started its six-week shoot on the Isle of Man. Christopher Milburn, producer of Relative Values - a 1951 social satire - said that Coward had been "underexposed for some time" but his "wit and writing are as relevant today as when he wrote". Mr Milburn said that, long after Coward's death in 1973, his presence could still be felt in everyday conversation: "Don't put your daughter on the stage, Mrs Worthington" and "Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun" came from the pen of the playwright, actor, composer, lyricist, producer, occasional painter and scathing critic of the second-rate. While producer Joe Abrams is planning to make Easy Virtue, and also has options on The Young Idea and I'll Leave It To You, a production of Quadrille is in the pipeline - delayed because Kristin Scott-Thomas was unable to take a part. The Vortex, the 1924 play about drug addiction with which he made his name, is said to be the subject of a remake by MGM. Hay Fever, his 1924 play, is to be filmed by John Boorman's company, Merlin, with a budget of some $6 million (�3.7 million). Apart from Lumley, the cast is yet to be found for a shoot likely to start in the spring or summer of next year; it is being adapted for the screen for Robert McKee and Charles Crichton - whose films include A Fish Called Wanda. Kieran Corrigan, one of the producers, said: "I've always loved Coward, who always said that Hay Fever was his greatest work." Yet, for some inexplicable reason, Coward had objected to it being made into a film. British Lion Films, one of Britain's oldest film companies, founded in 1927 - in collaboration with Universal and Danny De Vito's Jersey Films - is fine-tuning the script for Blithe Spirit, the story of a novelist whose late first wife cannot resist upsetting his second marriage. It was made in 1945 by David Lean with Rex Harrison, Constance Cummings and Margaret Rutherford. One of its producers, Peter Snell, whose films have included Don't Look Now with Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie, said: "Blithe Spirit has such a contemporary adaptability. What you have - the first wife comes back as a ghost to haunt the second - is pretty contemporary, particularly in America where most marriages end in divorce." Although Lean's version was set in the 1940s, the remake will be set in 1990s England. The language will be "contemporised", said Mr Snell, "but it will not be blatantly changed. It will still feel like Coward." Other Coward events later this year are a season at the National Film Theatre; a republishing by Faber and Faber of his screenplay for Brief Encounter; West End stagings of Masterpieces, a Coward revue presented by Duncan C. Weldon, and Song At Twilight, starring Vanessa and Corin Redgrave; and a two-day conference in November at Birmingham University.

(Karen) Negotiations are under way for Nicole Kidman and Rupert Everett to star in an adaptation of Blithe Spirit... Oh no, is CF going to have to go up against an RE film again? I just hope RV comes out before Blithe Spirit. Don't want another Valmont/Dangerous Liaisons anti-climax to happen!

Thanks, Karen, for posting the "edited down to the good parts" version of MEM on BWTA. Hooray for Mary! Personal friendship aside, she joins Gwynnie (and likely others) in the 'Actors Who are Fans of Firth' club. Too bad that it only seems to be MEM banging the drum for this film It's early yet. I'm curious to see how Miramax will herald MLSF's expansion to the rest of the top ten markets. Friday should be the big day for ads or (dare one hope?) TV commercials. Also, of all the actors, MEM is likely the most recognizable to US audiences. Too bad Colin's just started RV. If he hadn't, I would have thought it quite possible to see him publicizing the film.

Newspaper Slueth-hounds....be on the look-out for reviews of MLSF in the regional newspapers of the next Ten City tier on Thursday or Friday. Susanne kindly sent a comment in the weekend Dallas Morning Post... Movie Buzz column.. where it lists next week's openers it said..., " a lot of warm buzz surrounding this one" about MLSF by Dallas's premier movie critic. The most positive thing said about any movie opening next week-well some nice things about The Iron Giant but that is a kid's movie so it does not count" Thanks Sue..

Two more days!! ;-D I can barely contain myself.

The Positive Side of the Torrid Temp:!!!! Someone posted this on V V Re: MLSF in NYC "I went to see it this Sunday, but it was so hot here (@ 102F) and the line so long I gave up. Will probably see it this week ..." I am eager to see what it did at the BO.

Hi, there is a lovely review for MLSF and Colin particularly "Firth is the standout" at http://www.boxoffice.com/justinadditional.html scroll down the page and click onto MLSF. I think the "fors" and "againsts" are pretty even.

are pretty even now. forgot to mention they gave it 31/2stars.

AFTER Thomas Hardy and Jane Austen, film-makers are turning to No�l Coward. How does Colin manage to do it--be on the edge of what is happening that is. (Karen)Two more days!! ;-D I can barely contain myself. I'm sooooo jealous. I have a feeling the movie will never make it here and the more I hear about it the more anxious I become.

Ooops, how clumsy of me.

What I meant to say was how does CF know what's hot. Is it just luck i.e., the English Patient, Shakespeare in Love. etc. Not counting P&P because he didn't have a clue.

I give up I can't close the tag. Help! Promise never to do it again.

Don't worry, Jana, the tag is and was closed. You just can't have a *bad* message on the screen at the time. It infects the rest. Once you leave and return, it will disappear. Did you notice that the boxoffice.com site rates films on a 5 star system. (Jana) Not counting P&P because he didn't have a clue. LOL!! You're so right. He didn't have a clue about this one and probably still is bewildered.

Jana!! What's going on in Tucson? There's a User Comment posted for MLSF at the IMDb. That Tango person couldn't possibly have seen the movie? Redgrave? Dover? What movie did he/she see? Why don't you give the local art house a ring to find if and when they're going to show MLSF.

(Evelyn) "I went to see it this Sunday, but it was so hot here (@ 102F) and the line so long I gave up." Pshaw! Clearly not written by a diehard CF fan. What's a little heat (heck, it's been like this since Memorial Day) when ODB awaits inside?? I am eager to see what it did at the BO. By now you've probably read that it did well again this past weekend, based on per screen earnings. Good news! 20/20 hindsight: We were so concerned about EWS and the other summer blockbusters taking screens away from MLSF. Now Blair Witch Project is grabbing all the headlines. Who'd have thunk it?

Now Blair Witch Project is grabbing all the headlines. Who'd have thunk it? A fool and his money are soon parted. ;-D

Jana) Not counting P&P because he didn't have a clue. (Karen)LOL!! You're so right. He didn't have a clue about this one and probably still is bewildered. Colin wasn't the only one....Someone asked JE in a TV interview if she knew at the time that P&P was going to be such a phenomenal success...and she looked scared and said " Oh, no.If I had, I'd still be under a sofa in Derbyshire".

Now Blair Witch Project is grabbing all the headlines. Who'd have thunk it? [ You know, I predicted that this movie would overtake the box office a few weeks ago. Despite what ONE person thinks, it's a cleverly packaged movie. You know, movies without CF are good too. There is more to life than just his movies.

.... There is more to life than just his movies. Not much more.....:-D

(Laura)You know, movies without CF are good too. There is more to life than just his movies. Not in this lifetime.

(JanaC)...how does CF know what's hot. Is it just luck i.e., the English Patient, Shakespeare in Love. etc. Not counting P&P because he didn't have a clue. I don't know whether the DB knows what's "hot"...I think when he consciously tries to connect with "hot" (i.e.: ATA) the outcome can be very iffy. (Pulitzer prize and cast not withstanding). But he certainly knows what's GOOD...( and having discovered that a classic may work even better than expected, one can't go far wrong with Noel Coward...) The only trouble with knowing Good is that there are aften dry spells when good just isn't available and one must eat (and pay the mortgage). He's caught the ttention of some very good people (Minghella, for example) simply because HE'S so damn good!! (pardon my french).

I agree with you, he is good and therefore doesn't want to make a mistake. Unfortunately most moviegoers want action and more action and he is 'too delicate for that.

Laura, we are here because we DO think movies with Colin are the BEST, why are you here?

(Laura)You know, movies without CF are good too Not really :-) (KJ)one must eat (and pay the mortgage) WHAT is this mortgage of CF that you guys keep talking about? Have I missed out something? I did read all the hundreds of postings when I came back from hols but didn�t see anything about this.

From yesterday's Evening Standard: On the theatre listings page, there is a display add entititled "Coming and Going". BOOK NOW Theatre Three Days of Rain: Richard Greenberg's remarkable play, the sell-out highlight of the theatre's American Imports season, returns for a second run with the same impeccable cast. It opens wiht Colin Firth and EG [picture of CF and EG below] as brother and sister, trying to make sense of their architect father's will and of his enigmatic secret journal. Together with DM's brilliant Pip, the son of their father's business partner, they compare memories and recreate their version of the past. After the in erval, the play moves back to the Sixties to see how the children's notions differ from the reality of their parents' lives. Greenberg's writing is witty and lyrical and Robin Lefevre's elegant production is so beautifully acted that this is really unmissable. Good huh?

When does MLSF go nationwide? Or very selected nationwide? A few thoughts on marketing (yet again!). It seems to me that Miramax are giving MLSF very little help...it's a case of throwing it onto the water and seeing whether it sinks or swims. There's also zilch coverage of the "star"...not a single interview in any of the media. If you compare coverage of AIH...I only saw what happened in the UK. But the focus was on RE, he got a lot of coverage in the press at Cannes (unlike CF!) reports of Harvey pushing RE for an Oscar nomination etc, there were trailers on S y 1, and also frequent reports on CNN Entertainment. And there may have been much more that I wasn't aware of. I understand that in the US AIH transferred eventually to over 700 screens. So that's a big push and I presume it was heavily promoted. I think that at the moment MLSF really is in a David and Goliath situation, and I really hope it comes through. But all it's got going for it is word of mouth (very cheap!). There was an article in one of the papers about "The Blair Witch Project". It may have been cheap to make, but an awful lot of money was spent on a very astute marketing strategy. By the time it opened people were desperate to see it (and it may well be very entertaining...I'm not disputing that!). Who would know that MLSF had opened nless they read the NY Times from cover to cover? Well, I'm keeping my fingers crossed! BTW, users commewnts on MLSF are surfacing at IMDB. Murph has posted her excellent review, but the other comments seem to be by Irene Jakob fans, and one singles CF's performance out for special criticism! These comments stay on IMDB forever and a lot of people check it out. Registering to vote and comment takes 24 hours in the sense that you are emailed your registration form. But I think that we should try to redress the balance! If you've seen the movie, please try to post, otherwise as usual CF will be overlooked! On spotting winners and losers...must be the most difficult part of an actor's job, and commercial and critical success aren't the same. I guess it's a case of getting the right product to the right market. I noticed in Paris that there's a very vibrant West African community..lots of shops, music, eating places etc. A film like SLOW (hey, I can't leave this alone!) set in Cannes, would definitely attract some attention there in the arthouse outlets.

Another great review for MLSF and again especially for Colin at Film Journal "CF is close to brilliant" at http://www.filmjournal.com/DisplayReviews.cfm?ID=618&UI=9607

Elena, re: Mortage From all the articles, it appears that Colin has three residences (apartment in Rome, condo in LA/Santa Monica, and flat in Hackney). He may have recently also purchased a home in Islington, selling the Hackney flat. So this boy may have some substantial mortgages and must therefore keep working to pay them. ;-D Excellent review, AnnW. Thanks for posting. Notice, another woman has written it. Oh goodie!! Publicity for 3DOR. And Colin's name is mentioned first. Finally. Thanks, Allison. [Isn't the Evening Standard a broadsheet? ;-D] MLSF It's *real* competition this weekend is with The Thomas Crown Affair, which opens too. There has been a ton of publicity: Pierce Brosnan has been on all the shows and TV is saturated with ads. They are really playing up the love/sex angle and the sexiness of a mature woman. Many articles are emphasizing how refreshing it is to see Rene Russo (a woman of 45) bare all and wear a see-through dress. Hey, even I'm dying to see this one.

Isn't the Evening Standard a broadsheet? Well it is tabloid size.....

There has been a ton of publicity. Pierce Brosnan has been on all the shows.. Hmmm. Oh well, the sexiest man on screen is also the most invisible and least promoted! Mind you, I would hate to see him on the front of Cornflakes packs and Sugarpuffs (a la Ewan McGregor and Liam Neeson in "Starwars"!) Great reviews, Ann and Allison...and not many actors can get critical acclaim on both stage and screen these days. BTW Ann, did you mention that Miramax told you that MLSF might screen at the London Film Festival? The Fesival runs from the second to last week of November, which would mean an even later commercial release for MLSF (December?). Gritting my teeth here! It is so difficult to see his movies!!!!

Yes I did mention it and at first when she told me about it and not knowing the date of the LFF, I thought it would be a chance to see it early, perhaps Sept/Oct. but there is not much to be gained if it is at the same time as the possible UK release, think I would prefer for to see it in Brighton.

The Evening Standard is in the netherworld between tabloid and broadsheet. It's not complete crap, and there is no naked woman on Page 3, but as news goes, it's sort of "Entertainment Tonight" poised between "Hard Copy" and Tom Brokaw. [Let me apologize in advance for the totally North American analogy, which will be lost on many from outside the US and Canada.] It's the only evening paper in London, I think, and it's the one you pick up on the way to the train, ergo the tabloid form factor.

(Laura) You know, movies without CF are good too. There is more to life than just his movies. *Scratching my head* This is a CF discussion board, right? Presumably for CF fans who prefer to discuss CF? *mumble* I must be confused and disoriented again... (Bethan) A few thoughts on marketing (yet again!). It seems to me that Miramax are giving MLSF very little help Having watched ET last night with their highlights of the opening bash for Talk magazine, it's clear where Miramax is investing alot of their money. Did anyone else see that piece? A glimpse of MMcD...RE was there, of course (as Madonna's escort--LOL). Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick said it was the most expensive party they'd ever seen. Harvey looks like a walking heart attack--he better lay off the ciggies and red meat. Seriously, we knew from Cannes that Miramax was putting all its proverbial eggs in the AIH basket. Nothing's really changed (much as we all disagree with that strategy :-( ). users commewnts on MLSF are surfacing at IMDB Check this out again. There's more about CF. Who would know that MLSF had opened unless they read the NY Times from cover to cover? Apparently alot of people do. MLSF is playing on only two screens in NYC and has been doing very well. Whether it's the positive reviews, the ads or word of mouth (or a few out-of-luck sold out Blair Witch moviegoers), something's working. The real test will be next weekend, when it expands to more cities and theaters. (Karen) There has been a ton of publicity: Pierce Brosnan has been on all the shows and TV is saturated with ads. I heard a TV commercial this a.m. claiming TCA had "the most sizzling performances of the decade!" Yowza! Sounds like it'll push Runaway Bride out of first place at the BO this weekend. TCA should be renamed 'Entrapment With Two Actors Far More Compatible in Age'. Naahh--too long :-D

Liked what Arty-4 wrote at the IMDb: "Especially fine is Colin Firth, who plays the narrator's boyish, sexy and definitely oddball father. Every time I see this actor I marvel at how he manages to display so many conflicting emotions and thoughts while seeming never to move a muscle. And he's gorgeous to look upon, too...My only reservation about the acting is with Robbie Norman as the kid; he is cute in a freckle-faced way but not very expressive (especially set beside Firth)." He/she is an excellent judge of acting abilities! (she adds objectively) (Allison) Well it is tabloid size..... Hmmmm, on my monitor, they look about the same! ;-D

(Bethan)I noticed in Paris that there's a very vibrant West African community.. A film like SLOW (hey, I can't leave this alone!) set in Cannes, would definitely attract some attention there in the arthouse outlets. Bethan, the French film marketaudience is v. small. Pl. do not take this as perverse nationalism...but a film really has to make it in the US..more$$$. Incidentally, I do keep my monthly call to the bank...ask them if they put SLOW through the shredder yet.No, they say..."still here" ***** Hey Pierce Brosnan has been working his buns off on TV...as did Tom Cruise and Nicole for EWS. And these guys don't even need exposure (pun not intended). They're A-1 bankable stars!! I don't think Colin "get's it".But's that's ok by me. ****** (Ann)Re; MLSF... think I would prefer to see it in Brighton I think it would be" more funner"to see it at the London Premiere. Maybe "The Star" would even show up since it's in his own backyard. **** Did I mention that I heard from Adi who missed MLSF by a day in LA, but hopes to see it in Chicago. Karen gave me the theatre and address which I passed on.

(Evelyn) Hey Pierce Brosnan has been working his buns off on TV... LOL!! And I hear we're going to see those 45+ year-old buns on the screen! Yippee!! I'm all for equal-time exposure. Unlike a certain short stocky guy who let his wife take it all off! ;-p ...just a few more hours... I'm hyperventilating ;-D

(Karen)...just a few more hours... I'm hyperventilating ;-D Here's a brown paper bag for you--breathe deeply--wouldn't want you passing out in the movie theater. Have a great time!

Maybe "The Star" would even show up since it's in his own backyard. Sure hope so! Though I have to say (in his defence!) that even when he does turn up for things (SIL premiere in the UK, Cannes MLSF premiere) the camera never seems to pan in his direction. BBC News 24 carried a nightly report on the Cannes Film Festival for its duration, with a Brit focus, so the coverage was almost always on British actors...Catherine Z-J, Ewan McG, Jude Law, Nigel Hawthorne, Emily Watson, RE, etcetera, etcetera. On the night of the MLSF premiere, they showed Liz Taylor and Minnie Drive , and mentioned AMFAR, and then foused on Ben Affleck, either going to or leaving the event, and devoted the rest of the slot to him! No mention or shot of CF, although he must have been milling about in the background. I've yet to see him on British TV as "himself", although I'm still hoping! :-) Glad to hear that SLOW hasn't hit the shredder yet, Evelyn. Thanks for keeping in touch on this one! I'll phone Working Title again in a few days re BJD...their pre-production office must be up and running by now!

Mari was kind enough to find this : There's a Film Scouts video interview with Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio re: MLSF at: http://www.filmscouts.com/scripts/clips.cfm?Film=my-life Takes a while to load... and there are pauses...hang in there..it's worth it. Thank you , Mari.

I give up! there is MORE to life!!!! and there are MANY good movies out there that don't have CF in them.

(Laura) ....I give up! Sorry, Laura, you won't convert us.... it's a hopeless case....m'dear.. But why don't you try another cause? **** BTW Re: the MEM video...I looked at it on the Real Player link.

Laura, you crack me up. Can't you tell we LOVE to pull your chain? Guess 'cause it's so easy! Love that Arty-4. Got to be a woman. Karen, I hope your IMdb review is already to post full of exaltations about DB. No need to edit your comments after you see it, I'm sure. ;-)

I give up! there is MORE to life!!!! and there are MANY good movies out there that don't have CF in them. Oh, please... And I really hoped you had gone to live it somewhere else in that Firthless world of yours.

Well, since I know you're going to want to respond to the above, Laura, let me say first that most of us are kidding you. It's fun to be outrageous about Colin. This is the place to do it. You can't really think that we can't expand our horizons beyond him so you must be kidding us too. Joke noted. Next subject.

...and here I am, huge smile on my face, having seen a perfectly adorable movie to be greeted by.... argh. No more.

(Karen) Jana!! What's going on in Tucson? There's a User Comment posted for MLSF at the IMDb. That Tango person couldn't possibly have seen the movie? Redgrave? Dover? What movie did he/she see? Why don't you give the local art house a ring to find if and when they're going to show MLSF. Checked it out and MLSF is not on their schedule (local art house). Will keep inquiring at other places though.

and arn't you going to tell us about it Karen, please, please, please.

Yes Karen, please! November is a lo-o-ng way away for us poor folks in the UK. In fact, I think it's odds on that up here in the provinces, I'll see "Turn of the Screw" before MLSF if it only gets a limited release. :-( News of a kind. I phoned Working Title and asked yet again about BJD and when they will start filming. Answer "in a couple of months, most likely October, although no actual date has been scheduled yet". So it is this year. Hope it doesn't clash with 3DOR. If he does do MD (remember that mortgage!), he'll be very busy, but at leat everything is London-based.

Sorry I didn't post last night, but I felt a little deflated after reading the ugliness here. So here goes, AnnW: Arrived early, as I didn't want there to be any possibility that I would be turned away for lack of seats. The most bizarre crowd had already assembled. Most were of retiree age, although there were younger people here and there. The most bizarre stood right behind me in line. [I know I digress but I haven't seen anything like this in ages.] She had dyed blonde big hair and foundation makeup in a tanned tone about an inch thick. Under the makeup, who knows what age, but likely in her 50s or better. Escorting her was a younger man with dyed strawberry blondish wavy hair that was plastered to the sides of his head. I'm not sure where these people came from. I asked where she had gotten her tickets and she said a co-worker had given them to her. Behind them was a nice older couple and I spoke to the wife. She said they had done a radio call in for the tickets. I checked my other ticket and sure enough a classical radio station was listed as a sponsor, along with the Chicago Sun Times and Crabtree Evelyn. The classical station was not the main one in town either. I hope Miramax is reading this as the firm that handles its publicity here couldn't promote itself out of a paperbag. These people are not going to get people to this film. They are not opinionmakers! They should have given it to Cinema Chicago and let its membership see it. Those people love film, see it all, and can appreciate film. Off my soapbox and onto the film. This film is Godiva-level eye candy for Firth followers. Yowza!! From beginning to end not only does he look fantastic in all the white pants and especially the glasses, but his acting!! Oh Louisa, the acting! I have to say that this is his best role to date. He is the film, even more so than wee Fraser. Initially, I was apprehensive that he was another buffoonish character or a dislikable character like Wessex. But it is neither. I wasn't at all cringing at the laughter. It was genuinely funny. This is an eccentric character with the financial means to spend his time in pursuit of outrageous inventions of all sorts. Nothing at all painful to watch about his comical pursuit of newfangled thingamabobs. Colin really acts his socks off in this one but in his patented subtle way. The facial expressions you are going to love, especially the one at the end. When I said that this isn't a Geoffrey or Wessex type character, it runs closer to Paul Ashworth as he was another man-child. But it isn't Paul either. Edward is a totally different incarnation of that basic type. Edward, as you all know, is capable of lust and betrayal. More on this on Topic 121 [Yeah!! I'm finally able to go see what's going on there and to put in my two cents about you know what!!] Contrary to some of the reviews, I didn't find anything dragging in this movie - not even the first half. Yes, it would appear that certain aspects of the movie suffered as a result of the editing process - certain insufficiently explained characters. I'm sure there must have been more because all the others are so well-fleshed out. Strangely enough, one of the most enjoyable aspects of viewing the movie was watching as the scenes we've all seen in the photographs came unto the screen. It was a very weird feeling as you'd see the scene and the characters moving into place for the still shot. I can't add anything about the cinematography that hasn't already been said. Gorgeous, positively gorgeous. All the actors were marvelous and I had no problem with the kid. As for my personal highlights, I'd have to list in no particular order: Colin racing up the stairs (several times), Colin teaching the kids to cast to Beethoven's Fifth, Colin in the kilt with sporran prominently displayed (too bad there wasn't a huge gale of wind), the infamous dinner table scene (he looks sooooo good), watching th home movie with Fraser and of course the dancing. yum yum The audience reaction was very good. Lots of laughter and a smattering of applause at the end. There were audience reaction cards to fill out for Miramax and will tell you about that elsewhere. The nice lady behind me in line saw me in the lobby and asked how I liked it. She thought it was very funny and enjoyed it immensely. I forgot to mention that I had told her and her husband all about it beforehand and pointed out that they should take particular notice of Colin. That's all for now and I have to run off. More later and on 121. Can't wait to see the movie again either Friday or Saturday or Sunday or all of the above!

One last thing and not a spoiler. Colin has a new walk that he does in addition to his characteristic loping one. There's this hip-hopping thing with Moira after the church scene. It's set in a field and the same rock where everybody seems to sit and pose for pics. Adorable!! ;-D

I'm not sure where these people came from Planet Zarg? C'mon over to 121!

Ann, Bethan, I believe Karen has probably posted her comments on 121... Haven't been there yet, but check it out, I may be right!

Ooops! I should have checked again before posting. I'm sorry. Loved reading the repost, Karen, it's almost as good as having been there! (Ok, ok, I'm trying to be brave about it too- but it is, in a sense!) I *shall* read the "spoilers" ;-)

I have visited on and off for the past couple of years and wanted to say hello. It's nice to see so much activity. I've missed the private pictures--how can I see them? I don't even know who all to ask. I also wonder if anyone has had trouble logging in one day with a password that was perfectly good the day before. Anyway, it's nice to see that the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Great, Karen. His BEST role to date??!!! Sounds almost scary. Just how good can he get? Hello, quimby.

Laura, I agree there are some good films out there without CF, but they would be even BETTER if he was in them!!! No publicity in my part of Australia yet for MLSF. My sources from another part of the country are saying 2 September - 27 days.

Thanks for your review Karen. I can't remember when I so looked forward to seeing a film. I have already advised my friends that I am cancelling any arrangements previously made for the weekend that MLSF starts in my area. Of course, they all realise that they come second to Colin, so they were not surprised.

The anticipation for MLSF is heightened even more. Thanks, Karen. Would you say he's in even more scenes than Fever Pitch where I must say I usually fast forward through Paul as a kid scenes. How delightful to see him featured so prominently and beautifully.

Joke noted. Next subject. Spoilsport. ;-)

Joke noted. Next subject. ] Um, shall I start one?

Sorry I was at the "friendly confines" today, most painless way of getting a tan but probably cost me more than your going to Dallas to see MLSF, Evelyn. And the Chicago Cubs aren't anywhere near as cute as Colin and they lost. Oh well, the kiddies had fun. :-) I haven't been to 121 yet but will do so shortly. (Elena) Just how good can he get? Very very good. Colin and his character carry this film. What's so interesting is that Edward runs a full gamut of emotions. He's basically a child so think about it and what you can expect from a child. Try picturing that in the body of a grownup) without it looking ridiculous. (Cathey) I have already advised my friends that I am cancelling any arrangements previously made for the weekend that MLSF starts in my area. What excellent organizational and interpersonal skills you have! ;-D Thank goodness I have no *family* commitments this weekend for they shall not see me. (Heide) Would you say he's in even more scenes than Fever Pitch That's hard to say because the *other* scenes (non-Colin scenes) aren't as long as the young Paul flashback scenes. There are a few here and there of Gamma and Morris; Gamma and Fraser; Fraser alone doing various things; Heloise and Fraser; and Heloise and Moira's duet with Fraser watching. But they are short and we're back to Colin in no time at all. So it will be minor fast-forwarding in the future. And last, but not least, my welcome to quimby! Look forward to seeing your comments on all the boards. ;-D

And ladies, pay close attention to the curling scene. At the very beginning you will see two men walking across the ice doing an inspection. The bigger guy is our Head Curler Len!! :-)

This from Mari, bless her, who was in contact with Miramax: "I just talked to Miramax, and here are the U.S. cities in which it will open tomorrow. Note: it's a different list than what we previously thought--some of you will be very pleasantly surprised: Boston, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Chicago, Minneapolis, Dallas, Seattle, San Francisco. More info: They hope to expand in the coming weeks--but it will depend on how it does. " ***** Sounds as though the demographics don't include the very young who patronize the movies. **** ACTION -TIME: SF that's you SB....Seattle,.. KJArt?.....Washington DC...Emma? Boston...c'mon Laura..be a sport...we want your input, (and quit the sh**! we don't have time for that now!!) I'll do Dallas; Heide and Mari... Philly. Any lurker out there from Minneapolis? We want reviews from all over. And then on to IMDb..for an earful!! Busy weekend!!

Another good Review of MLSF..... from Mari: Here's a good one at James Berardinelli's site. High praise for Colin. Go to: http://www.movie-reviews.colossus.net/master.html . . .and click on MLSF right at the top.

(Karen)my welcome to quimby What a _wonderful_ greeting! The flower opens and closes and everything! I've never seen anything like it! I'm not normally one for exclamation points, but I have used a lot of them since I've tiptoed out of lurkdom. What a nice bunch you all are. I feel quite at home. One good turn deserves another. I'll leap right in and tell you my deep dark secret. It has to do with, um, well, opening and closing, as it were. I got the idea ages ago. Somewhere on these boards--forgive me for not remembering the clever woman who put me up to this... Remember the .WAV file that someone had set up to come on when she turned on her computer that said, "You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you."? In the past few weeks I saw that someone here had posted (pointed the way? don't remember) more wav files, so I rewired my whole setup. Now every time a program opens, closes, everytime the computer would beep or shriek or burp or whatever, I have a different sound clip. It's awfully fun to hear your favorite sentences over and over and over and over again. And since Windoze 98 is such a piggy operating system, those programs are opening and closing, and things are crashing and leaping like a grass hut in a hurricane, just in the _normal_ course of Windoze affairs. So I hear lots and lots of the e sentences. Warms a girl's ....er...heart. It took a tiny bit of doing to edit a clip or two, but once I got the hang of it it took no time at all. How many times a day to you want to hear him say, "Come back to bed."?

I'll try to retrace my steps and send my thanks to the woman who made it all possible (Ms. WAV) as well as the one who inspired me (My Heroine). I wish I could send flowers along with the thanks but if you're reading this before I find you, maybe it's the thought that counts? Maybe someday I can do moving flowers...

Here's Roger Ebert's newspaper review. He gave it 3 stars http://www.suntimes.com/output/ebert1/life06f.html Quimby, the flowers were nothing. Think no more of it. :-)

BTW, saw Malcolm McDowell on Conan O'Brien last night. He was introduced as appearing in the new film MLSF that opens nationwide, but the conversation was about Star Trek, William Shatner, Stanley Kubrick and Fantasy Island. At the very end, before his segment was up, the movie was mention and out spewed Malcolm's lines: It's funny, good, etc., go see it. About 10 seconds worth of publicity. No film clip either. Was hoping for that as Malcolm's best scenes are with Colin. Can't imagine they would s ow him strolling around the grounds with Gamma. ;-D The Washington Post's review - didn't like it, but did acknowledge (not by name) the fine acting: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/style/movies/reviews/mylifesofarosullivan.htm

Don't know if this long link will work, but the Boston Globe's Jay Carr loved it, giving it 3-1/2 stars. He was completely taken in by it. http://ae.zip2.com/boston/scripts/staticpage.dll?only=y&spage=AE/movies/movies_details.htm&id=20572&ck=8074207&version=620632&ccity=Massachusetts&cstate=MA&adrVer=914595068&ver=e2.6

San Francisco Chronicle didn't like: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/1999/08/06/DD30567.DTL Dallas Morning News gave it 2-1/2 stars, didn't particularly like it. Evelyn, it is playing at UA Cine 1&2, 5540 Yale Blvd. Showtimes: 1:30, 3:35... You'll be able to do it. Also, there's a "Map" link! http://dfw.citysearch.com/E/E/DALTX/0001/55/54/cs1.html

Thanks Karen..you beat me to the Dallas review...Not too good from the heartland..but at least they didn't call him a "lustless-lug" which they did for ATA...!!Pigs!!

Minneapolis Star Tribune thought it was OK, gave it 3/5 stars: http://www.startribune.com/ (go to link for "Variety" The Philadelphia Inquirer gave it a positive review: http://www.phillynews.com/inquirer/99/Aug/06/weekend/LIFE06.htm Nearly done... Seattle Times gave it 2-1/2 stars: http://ae.zip2.com/seattletimes/scripts/staticpage.dll?only=y&spage=AE/movies/movies_details.htm&id=20572&ck=&ccity=Federal+Way&cstate=WA&adrVer=918781678&ver=e2.7 This guy actually commented the most about Colin's performance and seems to know his work and career choices pretty well. Here's the paragraph: "Only when the plot thickens does Edward acquire a human side, and only then does Firth get a chance to plow into the role. Having established himself as a heartthrob with the television production of "Pride and Prejudice," Firth seems to be seeking out parts that aren't conventional leading-man material - the betrayed husband in "The English Patient," the cuckolded fiance in "Shakespeare in Love" - and he once more does an admirable job of portraying a less-than- admirable character." Couldn't find anything in the SF Examiner. SBRobinson?

you beat me to the Dallas review hee hee. Had expected to see all the review links posted by AnnW when I woke up, so I got to work! ;-D Did I miss any of the cities?

Interesting, the Chicago Tribune printed the review from Barbara Shulgasser, the one that referred to Colin as looking like Tim Robbins (where was her review originally?). Strange it didn't print Wilmington's, but another bad review from elsewhere. Somebody in charge there doesn't like the principals from this movie. OK, I think I'm done.

This is from the alternative Chicago paper and Jonathan Rosenbaum is a very well-respected critic. This is all they had up on the site, but will pick up the paper later today for the featured longer review. Don't know what it is as the website still had last week's info there. My Life So Far Capsule by Jonathan Rosenbaum From the Chicago Reader This charming adaptation of Son of Adam, the autobiography of British TV executive Sir Denis Forman, was left on the shelf for a while, and given that it's a Miramax production it's probably been tampered with. But though it fades fairly quickly from memory, it's a pretty flavorsome portrait of an eccentric family in the Scottish Highlands, complete with a crotchety inventor-father (Colin Firth), a more practical mother (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio), and lots of children and animals. Scripted by Simon Don ld and reuniting the director (Hugh Hudson) and producer (David Puttnam) of Chariots of Fire, this registers as a class act to be enjoyed more for the performances and period decor than for the mise en scene. With Rosemary Harris, Irene Jacob, Tcheky Karyo, and Malcolm McDowell.

(quimby) "Come back to bed." Yippeee! That�s what I want..... um......but I can only imagine what my DH would have to say about such wav files :-( Wonder why men have so little sense of humour. (Evelyn) "lustless-lug" Very funny, you can�t be serious! And anyway, I don�t see why papers put men to criticize movies that are mainly watched by women, like ATA or MLSF. There�s just no logic in it. Do we really need to know what some male ****** thinks about Colin? Ha ha

S.F. Examiner review for MLSF, not so good at http://examiner.com/990806/0806life.html

Colin is mentioned in current PEOPLE'S Mag... Meluchie has it posted in her FOF Periodical section. http://members.xoom.com/firthfiles/articles/99people0816.html ****** Thank you , Karen....for gettin up at dawn to have the reviews for us. And Ann. I haven't kept a good/bad log....Don't care....Am going anyway.

Am I imagining things or is Colin talking about his Mother pretty often? I don�t remember him saying a thing about his dad in interviews but I remember some quotes from his mum, like in the AE interview: "What? That�s not period drama!" (or how was it), and now this crowd scene thing. I like it that he seems to be very close to his mum and remembers what she has said years ago, and is even willing to talk about it in public!! A mother�s boy, obviously.

Wonder why men have so little sense of humour. Would you like him to have his gadgets greet him with a sexy female voice, inviting him to bed and so on? Would you not feel slighted? Don't forget that for men this is more a matter of asserting their male dominance over his territory and reproductive rights. Primitive instinct, yes, but that's nature and not really so funny if one feels threatened in some way. In other words, he doesn't want to share you or your thoughts and fantasies... so maybe it's best not to tell him too much about it... ;-)

A mother�s boy Now that's interesting. I imagine you meant it purely as an innocent description, so obviously in your part of the world (northern Europe?) this expression has a neutral meaning, but where I come from (central Europe), it's close to an insult. Any other (inter)national takes on this one?

his territory and reproductive rights Lol!! And this is his computer too!.....Actually I have already told him too much but he seems to take it like a man, so far. But I guess there is a limit somewhere and those wav files could be it. it's close to an insult Okay, that was a bit provocatory from me, but only the term. I respect a man who respects his mother and my advice to any woman is: keep away from a guy who doesn�t show respect and love to his mother because eventually he�ll treat you the same way.

Just for the Boston people. MLSF is NOT playing in Boston at all. It is exclusive in Cambridge only. Harvard Square Loews on Church Street. That is the only place in MA it's playing. I knew it would not play in "Boston"; and Cambridge is NOT Boston!

A mother�s boy Now that's interesting. I imagine you meant it purely as an innocent description, so obviously in your part of the world (northern Europe?) this expression has a neutral meaning, but where I come from (central Europe), it's close to an insult. Any other (inter)national takes on this one?

Ooops - that crappy program is at it again. I forgot that switching off and on makes it repost automatically. keep away from a guy who doesn�t show respect and love to his mother Absolutey. Yet he must also show the right sense of proportion and priorities. Someone I know got divorced because he always put his mother's and his siblings's needs before his wife's and eventually she refused to play second fiddle. It all boils down to the way one is brought up by one's parents. When a man gets married, his wife shouldn't be forced to compete with his mother's perfection.

Picked up a short review in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer (Fri, Aug 6, 1999) but I have only a few minutes..I cannot find any online site it might have. It was by William Arnold and was cool toward the movie as a whole even though "it was a quality production all around with a nostalgic glow that never turns into overt sentimentality, a loving feel for place/.../and a keen sense of the special joys of family life". He gave it a B- for what he considered vagueness of the plot, but added, "...the charact rs are individually multidimensional, constantly go against expectation and are well-acted, especially by Firth, a wonderful actor who rarely gets a part this big to show his stuff."!!! Obviously a man with good taste and in the know!

Thank you KJArt...that's a gracious comment: ... a wonderful actor who rarely gets a part this big to show his stuff."!!! No one has said anything derogatory about ODB...."bumptious"isn't bad. Where I come from ..A mother�s boyis different from "a mama's boy". The former connotes not only respect, but admiration and affection. The latter connotes a co-dependency.

Indeed so, from my experience,too, Evelyn.

Yes, Marcia and Lafn, I come from the Area in which Colin was born. I agree to have a good relationship with your mother implies a good husband mainly because he would respect women. The only downside is the comparison that can be made between mother and wife. Did I read somewhere that C.F. claimed attention from his father and rarely received it. I am not sure about this but his father was a schoolteacher, my brother is one and his eldest daughter went into some rebellion as he never seemed to notice her need for his attention. A thought

Thanks AnnW and KJ for finding the additional reviews. OK, have seen it again at horrible downtown art house--one of the worst possible places to watch movies. argh!! However, they were handing out audience response cards... For the ladies going to see the movie tomorrow, pay careful attention to the aerial shot of the top of Colin's head at the beginning when he rescues wee Fraser and lifts him up to crowd waiting anxiously below. *oh my* it's worse than we imagined. :( (Don't jump out of your seat, Evelyn or Heide!)

The SF Examiner critic appears to know Colin's abilities. He said, "The story of Fraser's philandering inventor father (played by a squandered-again Firth)..." He think like us overall, but I do think Colin does an excellent job with this role. It is so robust, not the least stiff or wooden. ;-p

Another good MLSF review today: the Boston Herald (the other daily in town) gives it 3 stars. About CF, reviewer James Verniere says: "Firth, an actor who has not found his niche, is quite good as Edward. But the role is almost impossible, especially after Edward is smitten by Heloise's charms and must act like a perfect father one moment and perfect fool the next." I'm clueless about how to add links, but the rest of the review is at www.bostonherald.com and click on movies. Karen, loved your MLSF comments. And thanks to everyone for posting all the review links. I must figure out how to do this:-)

*oh my* it's worse than we imagined. But that was two years ago. How can two years ago be worse than 5 months ago? Has he been seeking your services, Gi?

Karen, last night was the official opening night, how big was the audience and how did their reaction compare to Wednesdays and did you fill in another audience response card?!!

so maybe it's best not to tell him too much *****only causes trouble. I turn the speakers off or way down when others are about. keep away from a guy who doesn�t show respect and love to his mother because eventually he�ll treat you the same way his wife shouldn't be forced to compete with his mother's perfection. **********I think both things, myself. Except I'd say, his mother, period. No one sane thinks his mother is perfect, but there is that cloud, that imprint of his wishful thinking and unfulfilled needs that are a pain in the ***. Of course, the same is true for me and my parent "issues". As I get older (and (I'm oh so old now), though, I do watch to see if someone likes or respects his mother or other significant women. It's not a dealbreaker for a friendship, but I keep what I've noticed clearly in mi d as I go about that relationship. I might add, there are other things in the wav files--I was just being dramatic. "Talk to me" is a great one. "Can you keep a secret?" "You have to marry me." "What's the problem?" (that's for when I hit Help. And so on. I'm allowed a phase now and then.

Thanks for all the reviews, and, Karen, for your very enthusiatic report!(And we still have to wait months and months!)It's obviously not everyone's kind of movie, but when the reviews are good, they are always very, very good. And there's never any criticism of the acting...glad to see that critics realise that CF has been short-changed in recent roles. I sometimes wonder (Re the comment about an actor who has not found his niche) whether his versatility means that he doesn't automatically come to mind w en producers are casting. Hugh Grant, RF, RE etc. are associated with certain kinds of roles and get the leads. Re. "mother's boy" (not derogatory!) I remember reading an interview with his parents a few years back. His mum seemed to be the chatty one, and said nice things about him, like he had a great capacity for friendship and was always very loyal to his girl friends. His dad said that he was surprised when Colin said he wanted to be an actor, although he remembered that he had enjoyed pretending to be Batman when he was a little boy! Mind you, given the unreliability of our press, it's entirely conceivable th t neither of his parents said anything! bTW, Karen, basic question. Is he sexy/cute/attractive in MLSF (and more importantly would he also appear so to the unconverted?) and does he, for once, get to wear flattering clothes (as opposed to boller suits (TEP) and pantaloons (SIL)? :-)

(Bethan)The reporter then said something like "Cate is also reported to have been offered the lead in the soon-to-b -filmed BJD..Colin Firth is expected to co-star". I dragged this over from #80. I thought my ramblings would be better here. If CF is to do this and filming is to start in October, he will have been seriously busy. I wonder why? Many of the parts he has chosen to do this year appear to be eminently refuseable, so why has he chosen to be so busy? Mortgages aside, my favourite theory is: 1998, one fat cheque for SIL, rest of the year, househunting. 1999, make as much money as possible, Livia gets house in shape. 2000, another dirth of Firth for paternity leave. Ahhhh!

Allison, of Colin's roles this year which ones do you consider "eminently refuseable", 3DOR, his first appearance on stage in 4/5 years?, DQ sounds good to me and directed by the chap who directed the Lakes? forget his name and it is about time he returned to TV, TTOTS, this also sounds good to me, is with ITV so he should get a good audience and I have a good feeling for this one and again it will be good to see him back on our TV screens, Londiniun, well I get the feeling that he has the lead role here and it sounds as if it already has a Distributor, read somewhere that it would be released next year. (gosh what a long sentence). Finally RV, not so sure about this one, Colin as a drunken blue-blood (BB's description in the Daily Mail) but it does have a good cast and this is NC's year and finally 3DOR returning by "Public Demand".However, I hope your idea of a dirth of Firth is mistaken, long may he continue to be busy. One theory I read somewhere is that he may retire at 40, so perhaps he is trying t fit in as many roles as possible until then!!

Well, interesting theory! "Eminently refusable"...I dunno, I think he's had a good year. Obviously wants to stay at home and work in London though!! A short and long theatre run (and critically acclaimed), Donovan Quick for TV (also expect this to be good), Londinium (could be good) and then two parallel roles squeezed into the summer. RV has an excellent ensemble cast. I think "The Master" will be a supporting role, but TOTS should be a high-class prioduction. At least we'll see him ( says she selfishly!) and can have an instant ideo recording! I know that TV work is considered the "poor relation" of movies, but I think there are quite a few advantages in mixing work...and P&P was TV! Thanks for dragging over my BJD item, Allison! Heard it on Radio 5 yeaterday. Anyway all this activity will mean that he can afford to do the 3DOR run and still pay the bills! Paternity leave? Well, always a possibility! :-)

*oh my* it's worse than we imagined. I can�t take it very negatively, I think it can be sexy and masculine too....and that�s what it�s really all about of course (= dihydrotestosteron (!!). I hereby declare that losing his hair won�t change my feelings for him. another dirth of Firth for paternity leave. I agree, that�s probable pretty soon and wouldn�t it be sweet. Maybe he wants to stay in London because Livia is......?? But whenever it happens, I�m sure that he�ll return to business pretty quickly.

Allison, of Colin's roles this year which ones do you consider "eminently refuseable", Well, not 3DOR or DQ. TOTS I think will be high profile in the UK though probably a small part. Colin dressed as a victorian gent on Christmas Day could do terrible things to female hormone levels in the UK this Yule. Londinium. Well I do not see any sign of a distributor. They say it is to be released next year but in the immortal words of Mandy Rice-Davis...they would say that... RV, like Londinium, has a less than stellar cast and his is not the main role. Will be eclipsed by RE in Blythe Spirit..Cannot see it being big box office. Has more of a TV feel about it. Sorry to disparage but I only meant to point out that neither RV nor L were parts he just HAD to take.

True Allison, how do you feel about BJD, though?

May I just add a thought about the "mother's boy" theory? It is a part of latin male chauvinism for men to respect their mothers and even worship them, but think of *all* other women as trash. I therefore believe that a man's respect for his ex(es) is more indicative of his attitude towards women that respect for his mother.

(AnnW) how big was the audience and how did their reaction compare to Wednesdays and did you fill in another audience response card?!! I went to the first showing at 5:40 pm. The audience was very sparse and on the older side. Initially, it was pretty quiet, but soon enough they realized it was a comedy. Huge laughter at the end scene. I filled out the card, which was slightly different from the ones I've done in the past. This one had a section to give Miramax your email address for notification of upcoming events, etc. Also asked what induced you to see this movie. All sorts of advertising methods were listed, but Miramax barely advertised this movie (no TV, no trailers). Should have indicated that...next time. ;-D There were half-page b&w ads in the Friday newspapers though. The low attendance must in part be due to the theater. I don't know how to explain what an awful place that is to watch films. You have to be a glutton for punishment to go there and to the other "serious" arthouse. Both are very old converted places, with bad screens and hard uncomfortable seats. Moreover there isn't a suffiencient slope, rendering subtitles unreadable. When I've gone to these theaters for subtitled films, as soon as they appear, people are getting up all over the place, changing se ts. Looks like a game. I can think of several better places to show this film. (Bethan) whether his versatility means that he doesn't automatically come to mind when producers are casting. Hugh Grant, RF, RE etc. are associated with certain kinds of roles and get the leads. I think HG went through a period of tryint not to be typecast in roles. Those memorable films like the Man Who Went Up the Hill, the doctor suspense one, etc. But he failed. Now, he's found his niche and appears content to do the Cary Grant screwball thing. Mickey Blue Eyes is going to be very big. There's been incredible audience reaction to the trailers on this one. (Bethan) His mum seemed to be the chatty one Good point! Fathers rarely speak. Moms love to talk about their children and are the ones who remember all the childhood stuff. (Bethan) Is he sexy/cute/attractive in MLSF (and more importantly would he also appear so to the unconverted?) Most definitely, he looks really good, very attractive. To the uncoverted, he should look very handsome. He has no competition in that regard in this film. Sexy? Since there's only one onscreen kiss (and MEM's shawl covers his shoulders so we can't see any action there), it would be viewed more as a romantic, flawed hero. and does he, for once, get to wear flattering clothes YES!!!! All the clothes are great and he wears them so well. (AnnW) Londiniun, well I get the feeling that he has the lead role...and it sounds as if it already has a Distributor I don't know about that. Haven't we seen him listed third? Behind Mike Binder and Mariel Hemingway. I haven't read anything about a distributor. Where did you? Relative Values definitely has one though. (Bethan) Obviously wants to stay at home and work in London though!! Could be that he believes there are enough of the kind of roles he likes for him to stay in London. He's just not interested in vying for Hollywood movies. Another theory, is that he's working so much so that he can take time off to form his own production company and I'm not referring to the production of bambinos. ;-D

Karen"next time-", you mean you are going again, you lucky thing you. Is it only showing at one theatre in the whole of town?!!

Karen"next time-", you mean you are going again, you lucky thing you. Is it only showing at one theatre in the whole of town?!! Also Karen how does it rate amongst other CF films?

MLSF is showing at the smallest theatre in Wash., DC, the theatre seats only about 75, with a huge column in the middle! The screen is not much larger than a classroom blackboard...I'm not complaining, just wished it was showing at a theatre with a larger screen. Yes, db looks dashing in the clothes, and there were some fine closeups, but I missed a lot of the details and really need to go to a couple more shows...

Yes do go a couple more times Emma, and if everyone else does, then it might bt a minor hit and widen to more cities and we may get it sooner rather than later.(There's method in my madness!) BTW Karen, I have not heard anything with regard to a Distributor for "L" but I just assumed that as it said the film would be in our cinemas next year that it had one. Also I have never heard of MB, I just thought he was the writer/director? who was giving himself a cameo role or something.

(Emma) I'm not complaining Oh come on, join the club. I don't want to be the only one. ;-D just wished it was showing at a theatre with a larger screen. I noticed the difference between Wednesday (new, modern theater with huge screen) and Friday (third-rate cinema for masochists). That glorious cinematography was made to be projected on a big screen. [Actually, I was very worried during the previews when that stupid ad starring the NASCAR drivers was showing and all their heads were cutoff. I've never seen that before anywhere.] A column in the middle? Ours were toward the rear of the seating area! Re: Londinium I've never seen anything that Mike Binder has appeared in either. His newest movie, The Sex Monster, has had some limited showings but no mainstream distribution yet. Sounded like he is doing the writing, directing and starring in that one. His brother is the producer. Their production co. is named MollieB Productions. I assume that is their mother's name. ;-D Hey, Miramax is named after Harvey and Bob Weinstein's parents (Miriam and Max), so why not?

re Miramax - That's interesting Karen, you learn something new everyday. I'm confused, is MLSF showing at two cinemas in Chicago and presumably the masochistic one is nearer for you. Do you plan to go again Karen? I guess Evelyn is on her way to Dallas to see it, what a trouper

forgot to say that there is a very good review in the Toronto Sun, where it is is playing at two theatres.

It is only playing at one theater in Chicago. I plan to go again on Sunday as I can find *illegal* parking on the street in that area then, whereas any other day I would have to take a bus or aboveground (tube-type) train there for fear of being towed. :-0 It SHOULD be playing at one of the north suburban cinemas that does art films, like the Evanston or Wilmette (the Northwestern University crowd) or the Deerbrook. People in those areas do support films like this and they hate to come Downtown for a movie and won't! Can't wait to hear Evelyn's and Heide's reactions!

I'm confused Karen because you said one cinema on Wednesday was large and new and had a big screen and Friday's was the masochistic one!!?? Also you haven't said how you rate MLSF.

There is a very good review for MLSF at Entertainment Asylum and you can also rate it, at the moment it has 3stars not bad. Just scroll down page to MLSF http://www.asylum.com/cgi-bin/aggregate?aggregator=movies

I'm confused Karen because you said one cinema on Wednesday was large and new and had a big screen and Friday's was the masochistic one!!?? Also you haven't said how you rate MLSF.

Karen, did you pick up the Chicago Reader with the full review for MLSF and if so what did it say.

(Karen) I don't know how to explain what an awful place that is to watch films. You have to be a glutton for punishment to go there and to the other "serious" arthouse. (Emma) the theatre seats only about 75, with a huge column in the middle! Perhaps they are all run by Adrian LeDuc? He looked really sinister and threatening in that last shot, and I always wondered what he was up to. ;-)

Wednesday was a special screening of MLSF. It is not playing at that complex. I believe *all* 3 of their screens are showing Runaway Bride! I kid you not. I seem to recall that before they were all showing Entrapment. Very bizarre. Yes, I picked up the Reader and that's all he wrote. The main review was on The Thomas Crown Affair and there were two Critic's Choice ones for Trick and Xiu Xiu: The Send Down Girl. What Rosenbaum wrote was very good. Janet even emailed me to express her surprise and pleasure. Thanks for mentioning the Toronto Sun one. Took awhile to find it. Here is the link: http://www.canoe.ca/JamMoviesReviewsM/mylifesofar_kirkland.html Susan, doing links is easy. Just go to the location bar at top. Highlight and copy via tool bar or right clicking on mouse. Then paste here. Easy as pie. :-)

(Karen) I don't know how to explain what an awful place that is to watch films. You have to be a glutton for punishment to go there and to the other "serious" arthouse. (Emma) the theatre seats only about 75, with a huge column in the middle! Perhaps they are all run by Adrian LeDuc? He looked really sinister and threatening in that last shot, and I always wondered what he was up to. ;-)

(AnnW) you learn something new everyday and, interestingly, we are back on topic: mother's boys ;-D (Renate) Perhaps they are all run by Adrian LeDuc? I could see the other one (the Music Box) being owned by Adrian and it is in the right neighborhood. ;-D But this one is owned by the big Loews Cineplex chain. He looked really sinister and threatening in that last shot, and I always wondered what he was up to. ;-) Holding wine tastings at home, perhaps?

Oh, B******! Recalled a nanosecond too late to leave the program before hitting refresh! Ok, there are worse things in life. F.e. having to wait half a year for Edward Pettigrew to come to a theatre from hell around here :-). Thanks for all the reviews, and welcome to all newbies.

(Gi) man's respect for his ex(es) *******very good point. And a good indicator for any culture, I would imagine. (The net is great, to be able to talk to people in far-flung places and be reminded of or learn things.)

Did I read somewhere that C.F. claimed attention from his father and rarely received it Did you? Where, where? :-) "Firth, an actor who has not found his niche..." But has he been looking for one? it's entirely conceivable that neither of his parents said anything! According to Colin - quoted in yet another source... - his proud mother's chirpy reminiscences were conveniently copied (and somewhat modified, as he implied with disgust) by the national press from an interview published in a regional paper (I believe he described it as a village newssheet or something) a little before his Darcy phase. One theory I read somewhere is that he may retire at 40 He was openly musing on this possibility in the Radio Times interview. But not very recently.

(Renata) Perhaps they are all run by Adrian LeDuc? LOL, I'll look for Adrian when I go back on Thursday. OK, just returned from my second viewing of MLSF, and yes, it's better the second time around. Like most Colin films, it just gets better each time. I'm definitely doing my best to boost the attendence for MLSF, my daughter has already seen it, next up is a friend, then my son and maybe even my dh.

Well done Emma, you could end up going 5/6 times! BTW where is Winter, I wonder if she has seen MLSF?

MLSF is playing in downtown Philly, good location in the historic district, and also in suburban Philly across the river in New Jersey, I believe Mari said in a multiplex. The downtown Philly theatre is a two-theatre arts cinema but is modern, good seats, no columns blocking the view though the sound seemed muted to me. Could be my aging ears. Crowd was mixed, mostly middleaged though some younger - quite a few men though I did notice several men getting up in the middle of the film. Hey, it wasn't tha long...couldn't they hold off to use the toilet? I don't know how many people the theatre holds. I'd say it was half full so maybe 50-75 people were there at the first showing when I went. A lot of laughter at the right moments. People were laughing even at spots that I didn't think were that funny though meant to be comedic. He riveted me in every scene he was in. I can't imagine how anyone else watching the film wouldn't find their attention constantly drawn to him. He looks fabulous. Hang in there, ladies.

We're hanging! Heide,did you like th film first time or will you have to go and see is again like Karen & Emma? Please someone tell me how it compares to Colin's other films.

*****Artfully crafted 'My Life' seems familiar By William Arnold P-I MOVIE CRITIC The most noteworth thing about "My Life So Far" is that it's a reunioun effort by director Hugh Hudson and producer David Puttnam - the filmmaking team that gave us "Chariots of Fire" in 1981, and once seemed the great hope of 'British cinema. Otherwise, it's a fairly standard coming-of-age drama, delicately acted by its well-chosen ensemble cast, rich with '20's - '30's period Highland Scottish detail and nicely crafted in every technical department, but without a huge emotional impact. Based on the family memoir, "Son of Adam" by television executive (and Puttnam friend) Sir Denis Forman, it's narrated by Fraser ( Robert Norman), a young boy growing up on an idyllic family estate in rural Scotland run by his kindly but firmly-in-control maternal grandmother (Rosemary Harris). But the main character is Fraser's life-force of a father, Edward (Colin Firth): a big dreamer, a lover of Beethoven, an incorrigible inventer, the owner of the only moss factory in Europe and, more paradoxically, a fundamentalist Christian, without much tolerance for differing opinions. Trouble comes for Edward and the entire family when his 60ish millionaire brother-in-law Morris (Malcolm McDowell), who disapproves of Edward and his plans for the estate, turns up with a beautiful young French bride, Heloise (Irene Jacob). The plot basically traces what happens when Edward falls madly in love with Heloise and the effect this one-sided affair has on Fraser, his long-suffering mother (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio), and his older sister (Kelly MacDonald). As we might expect from Puttnam/Hudson, it's a quality production all around, with a nostalgic glow that never turns into overt sentimentality, a loving feel for place (it was shot on location an Argyll, Scotland) and a keen sense of the special joys of family life. Though the script is not good at establishing the various relationships of one character to another, the characters are individually multidimensional, constantly go against expectation and are well-acted, especially by Firth, a wonderful actor who rarely gets a part this big to show his stuff. My only criticism is that, while the film is enjoyable, it never comes together to be anything truly special or memorable. It almost makes you wonder if Hudsoa and Puttnam have been to the movies very often in the 20 years since their heyday. If they had, surely they'd know how formulaic and familiar this kind of coming-of-age material has become. Grade: B- // A Movie Review in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Friday, August 6, 1999.

Did I read somewhere that C.F. claimed attention from his father and rarely received it Did you? Where, where? :-) "Firth, an actor who has not found his niche..." But has he been looking for one? it's entirely conceivable that neither of his parents said anything! According to Colin - quoted in yet another source... - his proud mother's chirpy reminiscences were conveniently copied (and somewhat modified, as he implied with disgust) by the national press from an interview published in a regional paper (I believe he described it as a village newssheet or something) a little before his Darcy phase. One theory I read somewhere is that he may retire at 40 He was openly musing on this possibility in the Radio Times interview. But not very recently.

Thanks for that review KJ, are you going to see it soon?

wonderful actor who rarely gets a part this big to show his stuff Indeed......William Arnold seems to know the situation of Colin�s career and his actor quality exceptionally and surprisingly well for a movie critic.

I do like this review especially the kudos to Colin and the description of his character: But the main character is Fraser's life-force of a father, Edward Life-force - a very apt description. the owner of the only moss factory in Europe Don't forget "and the biggest and the best".

Saw this article in the Saturday L.A. Times, titled "London's Doors Swing Open to Lure Filmmakers Outside." "It's not apart of this city you see often in movies, but visually it's a stunning one. On this perfect summer day the branches of a weeping willow tree graze the calm surface of a small man-made lake, which narrows into a system of canal, their banks lined by brightly painted houseboats. For obvious reasons, this part of London is known as Little Venice. Three actors - American Mariel Hemingway, Englishman Colin Firth, and Frenchwoman Irene Jacob - disembark from a tourist pleasure boat and stroll along the towpath, talking animatedly. Director Mike Binder shouts, 'Cut!' and another scene of London looking ravishing is committed to film. Binder, an American screenwriter, stand-up comic and actor based in Los Angeles, also wrote and co-stars in this modestly budgeted independent film, 'Londinium,' a romantic comedy with a story that is effectively a love letter to London." ... "Then there is Binder's 'Londonium,' which is positively giddy in its affection for the city....He has gone out of his way to shoot at sites usually overlooked by filmmakers: the Serpentine waterway in Hyde Park, the South Bank arts complex overlooking the Thames, Regent's Park, Waterloo Station and the British Museum. Binder has found the London Film Commission suportive....'Despite all that it's the hardest city to shoot in.'...Among his complaints: 'There's the traffic. One minute it's sunny, one minute it's cloudy, so nothing matches. There's always planes overhead. One day 50,000 Kurdish demonstrators are marching and half the city's blocked off. We encountered the world's largest gay (pride) parade. The day we shot inat the South Bank, a guy jumps off Waterloo Bridge and commits suicide, so the place is swar ing with helicopters and boats and we can't shoot." I tried looking for the exact site but couldn't locate on latimes.com ... and of the 2 pictures that accompanied the story, one was of Hugh Grant walking down Portobello Road and the other was of MB and MH strolling along the Thames.

Thanks for posting the article, Marianne, and having to type it. Here's the link (it took quite a while to find it!) but alas there are no pics. http://www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/CALENDAR/t000070113.html

Hi everybody, Got back from Dallas too late last evening to post. Loved the film as everyone else did. The clothes he wears? To die for.The man looks positvely gorgeous in each and every ensemble.He stands out....who cares about the stupid scenery when you have Colin to look at.Best he has ever looked in any film or in person!! A feast for your eyes...no kidding. The theatre wasn't exactly a dump...but definitely retro...sound would go and come at times...irritating. Not first class. About 80 people in the theatre..mixed ages, mostly women. There was a Miramax rep at the exist distributing evaluation forms.... I put down I was a 25 yr old Asian... since I didn't see anyone in that category in the theatre.On the question "Where did you hear about this film?" I replied: "Internet"...colinfirth.com (forgot Murph's URL!).Gave us (Susanne and a friend accompanied me)a free MLSF poster. I had called Miramax in NY to ask."Is this film coming to OKC or do I go to Dallas" PR rep answered: "Go".I doubt if MLSF will expand.I complained to dallas Miramax rep. I'll post spoiler parts of my review on 121 later. But it is a sweet movie...and Colin is not a "crack-pot",or a"wack-o" as some reviewers called him...He is an endearing man...sort of a Dr. Doolittle. You'll love him in this.However, IMO the film is Fraser's, not Edward's and towards the end I got pretty tired of that kid.

Karen, somebody called Jan Wahl "TalkinPictures at Http://www.baytv.com/talkinpictures/ has given MLSF 4Hats!! highest rating and there is a review but it requires Real Player which I don't have. Would you take a look and tell us what she says about MLSF?

sorry Thanks.

Karen, somebody called Jan Wahl "TalkinPictures at Http://www.baytv.com/talkinpictures/ has given MLSF 4Hats!! highest rating and there is a review but it requires Real Player which I don't have. Would you take a look and tell us what she says about MLSF?

Ann, you can download the Real Player G2. I don't remember how long it takes, but it's definitely worth having as it plays videos of many types. I'll go check this out.

Here's the review from Jan Wahl: "Today is the day a wonderful movie comes out and I hope you all see it. You know there is a big vast audience of people who want intelligent, witty, entertaining films without insults or no porn, and I got a good one. This is called My Life So Far and it stars Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Colin in the tale of an eccentric, lovable, crazy family and all they go through, told through the eyes of a charming young boy. My Life So Far. Please see it on the big screen. If you liked the Red Violin, if y u liked An Ideal Husband, this is a movie for you. I'm giving it 4 Hats." The SF television news anchor (presenter) led in with: "She said it's a must." Jan Wahl was a guest critic on Siskel & Ebert in the show that reviewed both An Ideal Husband and the Red Violin back in June (?) She wore a hat and was totally outrageous in her verbal reviews, but she loved both of those. Interesting that she finally gave AIH only 3-1/2 hats, but Red Violin also got 4 as did MLSF. I thought Red Violin was pretty good, but had a major flaw. That just MHO. ;-D

Three actors - American Mariel Hemingway, Englishman Colin Firth, and Frenchwoman Irene Jacob - disembark from a tourist pleasure boat and stroll along the towpath, talking animatedly. Director Mike Binder shouts, 'Cut!' and another scene of London looking ravishing is committed to film. This sounds promising...Colin's character must like women! And with both CF and IJ, it's almost like a sequel to MLSF! 'Londinium,' a romantic comedy with a story that is effectively a love letter to London." ... "Then there is Binder's 'Londonium,' which is positively giddy in its affection for the city....He has gone out of his way to shoot at sites usually overlooked by filmmakers: the Serpentine waterway in Hyde Park, the South Bank arts complex overlooking the Thames, Regent's Park, Waterloo Station and the British Museum. Better and better...and the weather over the last 6 weeks in the UK has been magnificent. Just hope it gets a distributor. This isn't just a problem in the UK...it's a HUGE problem and it's getting worse. When I look at what's on in our local multiplexes, I despair...the same blockbuster movies everywhere and the choice is dire. Not a single indie in sight. I don't think MLSF will open nationwide here, perhaps just London and a few selected Showcases. Well done Evelyn! You certainly take the initiative!

Thanks for posting the article, Marianne, and having to type it. Here's the link (it took quite a while to find it!) but alas there are no pics. **************** To All: I'm enjoying all the reports on MLSF and the theaters in which it is being shown. Eileen and I saw it at a big downtown theater in NY, and the screen was appropriately huge. I DID not see the thinning hair scene, Karen. I only remember vividly the triumph on tiny Fraser's face as he was held high by his dad. It seemed to me they did something to "fill Colin out" in this film. His hair looked pretty all there in most scenes. Anyone want to comment on the running up the stairs scene. Freeze THAT posterior for posterity! To Londinium...I have the LA Times article up on my pages, with lovely pictures of Little Venice. Take a look, and remember this is in the middle of busy London. I wish we knew more about the actual film, though. http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/london2.html Murph

(Mary) I DID not see the thinning hair scene You are going back to see it again, aren't you? Well, focus on what's important! The kid isn't. ;-D Looked like a helicopter landing pad. It seemed to me they did something to "fill Colin out" in this film. His hair looked pretty all there in most scenes. True, but that was the only shot from straight above, a real eye opener. It would also appear that the scene where he's dredging the loch must have been shot toward the end because he hair looks the longest and wildest there, like it did in the wedding pics. You see, if you go every other day, you notice new things each time. :-D

Aargh! What�s this hysteria about his hair? looked like a helicopter landing pad LOL but so WHAT?!

(Evelyn) There was a Miramax rep at the exist distributing evaluation forms.... I put down I was a 25 yr old Asian... since I didn't see anyone in that category LOL, my dear, we're all young at heart here, and I certainly feel 25 when I visit the spring. in the theatre.On the question "Where did you hear about this film?" I replied: "Internet"...colinfirth.com Way to go Evelyn, let them know Colin has some very devoted fans. 'Londinium,' a romantic comedy with a story that is effectively a love letter to London." ... I love romantic comedies�can't wait to get more news on this film.

(Emma)..we're all young at heart here, and I certainly feel 25 when I visit the spring. I do too Emma...but this poor unsuspecting woman(Mirmax Rep) was standing in front of me. (Elena)...What�s this hysteria about his hair? No hysteria, Elena...just friendly comments....we love him in any form :-) .....looked like a helicopter landing pad From the first row balcony (circle) where we sat the 2nd night of 3 DOR one could see a rather larger area then when one is standing in front of him.

Oh c'mon, thinning it may be, but it is still there! But when it goes away, if he wants it I'll get it back for him. I promise.

May I just jump in to tell you some tiny little story re: Apartment Zero, which - as Karen knindly reminded me, (Thnx!) - I did not yet share with you (sorry about the - utterly uninteded - neglection). Actually it's not my but Carola's story (a fellow Firthfan hiding in very deep lurkdom). Since she's too busy at the moment I'll post it for her. So, that's the story in her own words: "Some weeks ago I returned to my old appartment in Berlin which is now sublet but still stuffed with tons of material which I collected over years and years for some unknown reason. Now I tried to become a hero and started throwing things away like old magazines and such stuff. Among theses mountains of paper I unexpectedly found a couple of old programs of the Berlin Film Festival - 1988 and 1989. And while browsing through them I saw that AZ was screened on festival 1989. Not in the competition and therefore there was only a very tiny review in the program but there were also some nice pics which I've never seen before. Strangely enough, I remember that year well and some of the movies I've seen during the festival; I used to go there every year while living in Berlin. Actually, I was very excited by thinking that Colin probably was there. If only I already had known him then. Oh, my.." I've put up the pics and the words from the programm on a small website to be seen and maybe for some of you these pics are new as well. If you like, go to: http://www.firth.com/kirsten/az-berlinale.html. Nothing spectacular, really, and the quality of the paper was poor but I tried to get the most of it. Thank you all for listening. PS: It's great to see how many of you could manage to see MLSF. Thanks for all the wonderfull reports. With every account of you I'm more anxious to get to see this film. If only they could finally come up with a release date for Germany.

I'll get it back for him Bless you. Btw, d�ye think that many actors actually �get it back� in time to be able to do young man roles longer than their natural amount of hair would allow?? I suppose one could be pretty tempted.

Thanks, Kirsten!! (Oh god how much hair he seems to have had on his head back then!!! :-)

Hair!! I seem to remember a question a few posts back asking "what's all the hysteria about hair?" ;-D

...and thanks, Kirsten, for posting Carola's wonderful find. The page looks great.

Look at Sean Connery! ;-)

Seems to be catchy! :-))

For hairstyles, I mean... Elena.

Not hair-loss but hysteria I mean.....:-)

hee hee ;-D

Karen, did you see it for a third time yesterday and if so, how full was the theatre and did you notice anything new. What was the audience reaction like?

The answer to your question, Ann, is on 121... ;-D

Thank you Kirsten for bringing us Carola's "find". The pics of "Apt Zero" are terrific. And all that hair!! (hee ,hee)

Way way back Allison made a comment about "Blithe Spirit" (RE and Nicole Kidman)possibly eclipsing RV. Although there is a movie version of "Blithe Spirit" made in the fifties, it's very much a one location play set round a seance and a dinner party. Funny, yes (although the idea of a ghost which no-one else sees is rather unoriginal now) but not very cinematic.I think RV has much more potential on the Big Screen. Also, "Blithe Spirit" is being updated to the present day...I prefer the period feel of Cowa d in the nineteen forties/fifties. RV has a good chance of success, especially if it comes out first (no 3 year delays pl-e-ease!)

His hair my dear, his hair. Thinning? I've always suspected this ever since Helen Fielding made Bridget comment that as Mark Darcy bent down to get something out of the fridge she noticed that his bald patch was getting bigger!! :-)

You would think that all those Coward films would've been done and ready to show during the centenary year... so much for advance planning. Blithe Spirit is the more well-known of the two, but I would bet most 40-something Americans haven't even heard of it. They rarely go to dinner & show places where it might be staged. And the Rex Harrison/Kay Kendall film? Would mean nothing to most people. The only reason Blithe Spirit could eclipse RV would be in promotions again. Rupert gladly goes on the shows and sits for interviews. Even Nicole Kidman will make herself available. Now let's see of the RV cast, who is a regular on the talk shows??? *clearing throat* Let's discuss the physical attributes of a "perfect English officer or soldier." ;-D fergitaboutthehair

Sorry folks, just got through. Must be the weather here in Oz. Stormy!

It does look as if Harvey is not going in to bat for MLSF. I wondered about his attitude when hearing his comments after the screening at Cannes. Wasn't there some joshing between HW and DP with DP going on about what a middle class nice guy he (DP- yawn) was and HW saying that was every thing that he himself was not. I wondered, at the time about the context in which these remarks were made and if HW thought that MLSF itself had turned out just too nice and boring but having paid his $3 or whatever hi contribution was, his plan was to cover his costs. As AnnW said on this board or was it on 121, it must be disillusioning for Colin. It does seem that the only way to get ahead in the movie business is to go to LA and stay there. The only British stars who seem to get on either do that, or they form their own production companies a la Ewan McG. The movie business is now American. As Colin does not want to tread that path (Karen, I cannot see him going into FILM production - CF's entrepreneurial instincts do not strike me as very strong) I am sure he s es his future in London i.e plum television parts, theatre and roles in British films when he can get them. He probably has to work hard this year to make the same amount as he made with ine role in SIL. I do now hope he does BJD. It would be high profile for a change and I do not see that it would do him harm now.

I think we're all a little too close to this movie to look at its handling totally objectively. First off, MLSF has been put on the "art house track." That essentially means little if any publicity. There just aren't television commercials for those films. If the well-known stars appear on television shows to plug the film, it is because they usually have a personal interest in the film's doing well and are extremely proud to have been in a small-budget, indie-type film. The best example right now is Susan Sarandon in Illuminata. She always goes on the shows and this "little" film is full of big name talent. Now about the movie houses where MLSF is playing. With the exception of LA, where the theaters are fabulous, most art houses are old crummy places. The reason is of course economics. The new multiplexes play the big budget junk. The teensy little cheapo theater near me just recently changed over to an art house. It is showing Xiu Xiu: The Send Down Girl as first run. That place is so bad, hey should pay you to go in there. But that is just where art houses cinemas rank in the overall scheme of things. I am fortunate that another multiplex near me also plays art films, but right now it has three screens for Blair Witch and another for Summer of Sam. Where MLSF is playing is convenient for the downtown workforce. The theater is virtually down the block from the Art Institute and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Another thing: Also playing at this place are Limbo and The Red Violin, whic have been kicking around for months. Think I'll go back and see what they've average per week because they were not blockbusters. All art films rely on word of mouth as their primary vehicle for promotion. So what is going on does not indicate to me that Miramax has given up on this film at all. Do you feel any better, Ann?

Illuminata opened this week to roughly half of what MLSF took in the first weekend, so I am sure that with a little bit more publicity and wider release Iam sure it could have done really really well. Still never mind eh. Thankyou Karen, I feel a bit better but it is Colin I am really sorry for but then he does himself no favours, he is so invisible that it is no surprise that people say "Colin who".

Well...PEOPLE Magazine is doing their best. Did we mention that he has a small pic and blub on the v. last page ..It's the August 16th issue with Marilyn Monroe on the cover. Meluchie has it on the FOF: http://members.xoom.com/firthfiles/articles/99people0816.html **** I'm wondering what the teal background blob is... This is a new pic of him. Taken, I think, in Italy ..same jacket as when he's playing with the dogs. Also same jacket as he had when we saw him in the lobby of 3 DOR. ****** Colin I am really sorry for Why? He made a small budget movie that is doing v. well...financially and in reviews. This film was never mean't to be a blockbuster...from the beginning. This isn't like Valmont. MLSF is a success IMO.

In the new September issue of MOVIELINE Mag; on p. 39 ALSO SHOWING : MY LIFE SO FAR �Director High Hudson , who�s had a disappointing and sparse body of work since �Chariots of Fire� rebounds with this charming but tough-minded memoir of an eccentric family in Scotland in the 1920s. There are perfectly pitched performances by Colin Firth, Rosemary Harris and Malcolm McDowell, slightly more awkward turns by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Irene Jacob, and holding it all together is a wonderful child actor, Robert Norman, through whose eyes the story is told.� Small pic of CF hugging MEM . ***** Should make you feel better.� Movieline�appeals to the very young and seldom is enthusiastic about Brit-flicks. ***** P. 77 has a full length photo of Gwynnie with Hillary at the SIL premiere.. WOW! That see-through Armani-dress left nothing to the imagination. **** Later I'll give you the contents of another article called: BRIT INVASION; "...not since the 60s has a crop of lookers from the British Isles stormed ashore and seized hearts with such authority". Alas, but no mention of ODB. What's the matter? Are these people blind??

Got mail that this nice little moviemap site is online: http://www.visitbritain.com/moviemap/ Almost all relevant movies missing, but it's a start......

One of my work colleagues caught a small piece on a local radio station yesterday where the announcer said "Colin Firth spends a lot of time searching for antiques". That's all she heard so I've contacted a friend at the station and she is going to find out if there was more to it than that. Of course, I'll let you know if there was. I have added "lurk in antique shops" to my list of things I must do while in London next January. Do you think this may be another reason for his busy workload - to pay o f the mortgage and to buy furniture to fill the houses!

Got mail that this nice little moviemap site is online: http://www.visitbritain.com/moviemap/ Almost all relevant movies missing, but it's a start......

(Cathey) I have added "lurk in antique shops" to my list of things I must do while in London next January. Definitely a worthwhile endeavor. I did the same in Santa Monica earlier this year as I was "on foot" *horror on horror, a person walking in LA!!* Thanks for the mapsite, Renate.

I am depressed - just heard the news MLSF has been put off in Australia for at least two months - tentively 11th Nov. Cheer me up please

How's this:

Since I can't see MLSF yet (thinking about flying to L.A.) rented Shakespeare in Love--came out on video today. Drowning sorrows in Firthohall.

Lovely pic, Karen!:-)

Couple of tidbits from the Montreal World Film Festival announcement: (1) Mansfield Park will open the fest on August 27th; the director, Patricia Rozema is Canadian. (2) Happy, Texas [Jeremy Northam] will also be shown. and last but not least... (3) Fox Searchlight brings to the competition "Dreaming of Joseph Lees," a pic set in late-'50s England from first time British director Eric Styles." Styles is the director of Relative Values. Seems to have an affinity for '50s era work! ;-D

I don't know-antiques and Colin. Seems too upscale for his seemingly left-wing leaning. Must be Livia's influence. Evelyn, Should make you feel better.� Movieline�appeals to the very young and seldom is enthusiastic about Brit-flicks. Movieline is my favorite entertainment magazine and as you know I am not very young. :-)) Hope I get my issue today. Just want to remind everyone who saw MLSF to go to the IMDB to vote. So far, they have 13 voters for an average of 8.2/10. They update every Monday so there could be many more voters by now. Let's get that average higher. Karen, Agree totally with your view on art house theaters. I was a little taken aback at the size and look of the theater in Dallas. Two screen cinema set pretty far back from the road. I would have missed it had I not been following someone. Near a bunch of office buildings and fairly close to SMU. Luckily the inside was nicer than the outside. I'm not complaining, at least I got to see it. With so few art house screens in the country, movies tend to come and go quickly. If I had a lot of money, I'd open a posh arthouses in affluent suburbs serve shrimp cocktail at the snack bar. :-))

(Sue)I don't know-antiques and Colin. Didn't Colin say in his People interview that he spent his time in Italy, studying Italian and hunting for antiques? Seems too upscale for his seemingly left-wing leaning. He's British, we like old things. Unfortunately most of us can only afford to window shop in antique shops these days.

Here's the link to the People article: http://members.xoom.com/firthfiles/articles/people.html

Things might be changing for the art house crowd. Have heard that Robert Redford is behind a new chain called (what else?) Sundance that will show indy type films in nice new theaters. Yeah!! Rumor was that one was being built very near me where an closed furniture and warehouse store previously were. Multi-level parking too!! OK, found this article at Mr. Showbiz's gossip column. This should generate lots of interest in and salivating to see Relative Values (major sarcasm here). It's long but here goes: Too Many Baldwins How many brothers from the same acting family can Hollywood use? Could three be the magic number? There were five Marx Brothers to start with, but life and show business pruned things down to where it was only Groucho, Chico, and Harpo. The four Baldwin brothers-Alec, Daniel, Billy, and Stephen-have been doing their own Hollywood shuffle since the mid-'90s. And for a while there it looked like they'd found their separate slots. Alec assumed the brooding, mainstream leads (The Edge, Ghosts of Missi sippi) while Billy played sexy (Sliver, Fair Game), Daniel took the schlub character parts (Trees Lounge, Vampires) and Stephen played the Gen X goons (Threesome, Bio-Dome). Now it seems that Billy, 36, has fallen by the wayside. I haven't seen him in anything since that no-dialogue cameo in Bulworth with Christine Baranski. Before that he was in Virus, the monster movie with Jamie Lee Curtis, but that was shot a good while ago. The IMDB says he shot an action-thriller last spring called Box, directed by Jeff Celentano. Baldwin is living in the New York area somwhere. He's married to Chynna Phillips and the word is they're expecting. I know he's called Howard Stern on the radio show a couple of times. Otherwise there doesn't seem to be a whole lot going on. His agent, Ed Limato at ICM, didn't return calls last week. (Too caught up in the Jim Wiatt turmoil?) Billy's first noteworthy role was in Internal Affairs ('90), in which he played a rookie cop who was shot by Richard Gere. Then came Flatliners ('90), which stunk. Then came his lead role in Ron Howard's Backdraft ('91). It wasn't much of a film. A bunch of fake people remember Backdraft as the movie that launched the Universal theme park ride. But Baldwin had put himself on the map as a sexy young lead. And yet I remember saying to myself as I watched Backdraft that I didn't care for Baldwin. It was because he wore flip-flop sandals in one scene. I hate flip-flop sandals on men. They look stupid. I realize how trivial that sounds, but that image of Baldwin's spindly toes poking out beneath the cuffs of his blowsy khakis never left me. For me it just wasn't something that a cool movie actor would let happen. Billy starred in two other big-studio films after Backdraft--Silver ('93) and Fair Game ('95). Neither was any good. It was probably these two that did his career in. Baldwin may have delivered his best performance in Three of Hearts ('93), which costarred Kelly Lynch and Sherilyn Fenn under director Yurek Bogayevicz. Roger Ebert wrote, "The surprise in the film is William Baldwin. He begins with a fairly unsympathetic role and makes it into an engaging character...a working class guy who hasn't been ground down by cynicism, and finds there is more to the human heart than even [a ladies man] like himself would imagine." After Fair Game he made three lower-budgeted flicks: A Pyromaniac's Love Story ('95), Curdled ('96), and Shattered Image ('98). Then came Bulworth. Billy was fictitiously murdered in South Park: Bigger, Longer, Uncut, but it didn't really count in terms of exposure because Alec, Daniel, and Stephen were "killed" too. I'm writing this because I'm sorry he's going through a rough patch or whatever. (An extended vacation? A hideout?) And I hope he makes it back. He's not a bad actor. I'm even willing to forgive him for wearing those flip-flops in Backdraft. Everyone makes mistakes.

One last thing, the current People pic wouldn't have been taken during the last shoot in Italy. Different photographer credits.

Been checking all day for the interview to be posted. Indiewire has an interview with Puttnam which isn't half bad...even mentions James Dean in a scene from East of Eden (wowee). Anyway, here's the link for the full article and the one question that dealt with MLSF (it actually might belong on the *spoiler* page), but here goes: http://209.213.97.218/film/interviews/int_Puttnam_David_990811.html iW: So getting to "My Life So Far," what are you trying to say to children through your boy hero? Puttnam: It wasn't made for children any more than "My Life as a Dog" was made for children or "Cinema Paradiso" was made for children. Both films used children as a vehicle. In "My Life So Far," it's the world seen through the young boy's eyes. But what we are looking at is the adult world. It's a film made for adults. And what we hoped to do is try to illustrate to adults how very silly they can appear to each other or to any one objective, not just a child. I think the film's touching. It's funny. It makes me laugh. As I said, I think it touches on issues that haven't been addressed for quite a long while. I think here's a family that anyone with a brain would like to have been part at some point. You may not have wanted to be one of their children but you certainly would have liked to have known that family. To have lived within their environment. It's so seductive in that sense. The idea was to make "My Life So Far" sufficiently seductive that when a crisi hits upon them, you care, and you want them to get out of it.

I find that I agree with Sir David's opinions in this interview. It took courage to say those things. I don't know anyone in the US film industry that would say that the media is poluting the minds of everyone. I admire him.

I think we could be in for a Firth-filled Christmas in the UK. Is TTOTS to be screened on ITV? If so Colin's presence in what appears to be a rather Darcy-like cameo, is probably ITV's main amunition in the annual Christmas ratings war. BBC usually win this. On big occasions, BBC usually win out. Having Colin (voted most popular actor in the 60 year history of the BBC!) appearing in a drama on Christmas Day when the nation is glued to their sets is obviously considered by ITV to be a big draw. I am ure there will be lots of publicity especially as he will be appearing on stage then too. Let's hope! BTW to explain to those of you outside the UK, because the BBC raises its money by an annual licence fee, payable by everyone who has a TV set, ratings are an important way in which it shows that it is providing people with what they want and is providing value for maoney!

I think we could be in for a Firth-filled Christmas in the UK. Is TTOTS to be screened on ITV? If so Colin's presence in what appears to be a rather Darcy-like cameo, is probably ITV's main amunition in the annual Christmas ratings war. BBC usually win this. On big occasions, BBC usually win out. Having Colin (voted most popular actor in the 60 year history of the BBC!) appearing in a drama on Christmas Day when the nation is glued to their sets is obviously considered by ITV to be a big draw. I am ure there will be lots of publicity especially as he will be appearing on stage then too. Let's hope! BTW to explain to those of you outside the UK, because the BBC raises its money by an annual licence fee, payable by everyone who has a TV set, ratings are an important way in which it shows that it is providing people with what they want and is providing value for money!

ratings are an important way in which it shows that it is providing people with what they want and is providing value for money! And, what I should have added, are an item of general news not just of interest to advertisers and shareholders.

ratings are an important way in which it shows that it is providing people with what they want and is providing value for money! And, what I should have added, are an item of general news not just of interest to advertisers and shareholders. Sorry about the double post.

Again!

Is TTOTS going to be on ITV or BBC? AnnW's initial post from Teletext said ITV, but I thought the one from Radio Times said BBC. Then AnneR posted an item from the Daily Mirror that said BBC. Have I gotten it wrong?

Go here to register for tickets to an advanced screening of American Beauty (from DreamWorks). It will be held in 50 cities and tickets are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Offhand, I can't remember what the film is about or who is in it (although I think the trailer was shown... argh..who remembers). http://www.americanbeauty-thefilm.com/form.html

Hello all! :) Cant believe i missed the opening of MLSF! (Argh!) My sister decided to go into labor on Sat, so i was in the delivery room yelling "push! push!" instead of at the theater drooling over ODB. The miracle of life vs the miracle of Colin.... let me tell you, it was a hard decision -but since MLSF will be around for a couple of weeks, i decided to go with the birth of my new nephew. :) So... i plan to venture into the city on Sat and drool, drool, drool. *licking lips in anticipation* Will dive into the discussions at 121 soon as return Sat evening. :) btw- Hello and welcome to the newbies!

The Scoop on Londinium is coming...

Hurry up, Karen, Hurry up!! **** Eileen, saw your comments of MLSF on IMDb. Excellent review...liked the part.."I hadn't heard of the movie til I saw it".....Watch your nose:-) I'm registered...haven't written it yet... I'm shy *** Congratulations Auntie SB. Eager to get your review.

Watch out, Heavy Evie. Don't blow my cover! ;-D

(Eileen)..Watch out, Heavy Evie. Don't blow my cover! ;-D Hey, do you have a mole in ISDb? How did you know that was my password? I only registered yesterday!!

Now Karen, do tell! Don't keep us in suspense! Allison, according to Lisa's Timeline site, TOTS is an ITV production, with a screenplay by Nick Dear who wrote the screenplay (and won a BAFTA) for Jane Austen's "Persuasion". He also wrote the screenplay for "The Gambler", based on a story by Dostoyevski, and starring Jodhi May (who is in TOTS) and Michael Gambon. So he has excellent credentials...should be a class act. If it's an ITV Christmas special, it must be 2 hours. BTW it's already listed at IMDB as a TV movie (1999). I'm hoping Colin has more than a cameo. There's a lot of scope for expanding the story, and taking it back to the time when the children are orphaned. It's a very ambiguous tale, with lots of possible interpretations, and some strong sexual undercurrents. The Governess is infatuated with "The Master" as a result of her brief meetings with him and makes some serious misjudgements because she wants to avoid his scorn. Anyway, this is all conjecture...Karen seem to have real news!!!

Masterpiece Theatre are apparently advertising TOTS for their next season, so you should see it shortly in the US, and I'm sure in Australia and elsewhere.

Karen: Hurry up already on Londinium!!!! I'm pacing here: Hope this works. Karen, I love the little guy dancing. There has been no ad in the NY Times since the weekend for MLSF. Maybe it is true that Miramax is not considering it expandable past the next level...Sigh... Murph

It didn't work, sorry!

I was trying to be smart, and found out how dim I really am! Murph

Is this supposed to be *you* pacing? hee hee Or are you sending this raptor after me? It should be soon...my ISP and/or Hotmail appears to be back to normal. ;-o

Karen: That's me in all my glory! Thanks for bailing me out. Now back to Londinium. Murph

SB, you are excused for not seeing MLSF this past weekend. Congratulations, Auntie. Thanks for the news on TTOS. I've got to add the book to my pile of reading but I'm still stuck on Son of Adam!

On August 1, "Londinium" starring Mike Binder, Mariel Hemingway, Colin Firth and Irene Jacob completed principal photography. Filmed entirely in the greater London area, this contemporary comedy about love, marriage, commitment and sex is based on an original screenplay by Binder and directed by him. Binder stars as Ben, an American sitcom writer who is hired to invigorate a British hit television show only to become hopelessly obsessed by the program's star, Carly, who is played by Mariel Hemingway. Carly is a charismatic and self-absorbed American actress whose faded Hollywood career has been rejuvenated by her highly successful English comedy series. Colin Firth plays Allen, Carly's very proper London-born producer and husband who finds the best way to "let off steam" is downing pints-and throwing punches-at the local pub. Irene Jacob appears as Fiona, Carly's French make-up artist with literary aspirations who becomes romantically linked with Ben. Rounding out the cast are Christopher Lawford as Ben's L.A.-based agent; top English comics Jack Dee and Stephen Marcus as Ben's fellow writers; and comedian/novelist Stephen Fry as Allen's equally uptight English therapist. ************ Murph has put the above up at her site and has included a couple of pictures taken on location. Unfortunately, no Colin in the pictures, but they take place during a break in the filming and show Mariel Hemingway (with her real daughter) on the steps of the British Museum. Check it out. http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/london3.html

re Londinium.OH no he's not playing second fiddle again and I was looking forward to this one. Sounds like MB is going to have all the fun, why does he keep playing unlikeable characters, oh well as long as he isn't another cuckold. I like the sound of TTOTS though, and then shortly after Christmas we should have DQ on the BBC. Wouldn't it be wonderful if next year he was nominated for an Olivier for 3DOR, a Bafta for best British film and a TV Bafta for either DQ or TTOTS and a Royal Premiere for MLSF in Nov!!! (wishfuyl thinking?, we'll see)

From today's Times, media section, a big plug for MLSF in an interview with DP. I haven't time to type it out but it makes MLSF sound wonderful and says that it will open in the UK in October. Will let you have full details later today.

Sorry, thumbs down for Londinium. Mike Binder gets women, Colin is the uptight husband (AGAIN!). And it sounds as though Binder is the star. I have a horrid feeling that courtesy of TEP and SIL CF is now typecast as the "proper husband". And doesn't SF play a sex therapist? So "proper husband with problems" BTW if Binder is obsessed with MH, and has a fling with IJ, where does that leave Colin? Drunk in the pub. Does MH like him? Huh!! I'm beginning to wonder if the failure of SLOW to find any distributor (and he did play the romantic lead here) has dented his confidence. Am keeping my fingers crossed for Mark Darcy! Or maybe he just likes to ring the changes!

Positive thoughts about Londinium...CF can be rather sweet as the "proper husband" and maybe Carly and Allen do get it together again by the end of the movie. Ben is "hopelessly" obsessed with carly, so maybe she still loves her husband, but they're having problems. Anyway, Binder can't waltz off into the sunset with both women, can he! (Well, he wrote the script!) MLSF...we'll see it in October. Yeah! Hope it's not going to be promoted exclusively by DP. Question, why is Miramax not expanding MLSF in the US. It had some great reviews...5 stars from the Hollywood Reporter. How come AIH gets 700 screens, MLSF a trifling 17? The average "low" for a Miramax movie is about 40 screens. No movie can succeed from such a limited base!!

I've had a feeling Binder was the lead for sometime and, when I read the thing, thought, "oh, no!" Another second banana role; he's hopelessly typecast as the unwanted husband. And, worse yet, Fry plays a sex therapist.

Murph, Karen, I'm quite enraptored! To you and all the others who are so busy reporting. * * * Yippieeeh! The unfortunate "clear" button is gone!

I meant to say "Thank you to you ...etc."

Yesterday, I posted a link to get tickets to an advanced screening of American Beauty in 50 US cities. This tells you about the film and Sam Mendes (artistic director of the Donmar) is the director: DreamWorks' "American Beauty" will have its world premiere as a gala presentation at the 24th Toronto International Film Festival. The dark comedy, starring Annette Bening and Kevin Spacey, marks the motion picture debut of director Sam Mendes, best known for his award-winning theatrical career. He most recently directed Nicole Kidman in David Hare's "The Blue Room" and earned a Tony award for his revival of "Cabaret." Also in the cast of "American Beauty" is Thora Birch, Allison Janney and Peter Gallagh r.

...and I meant to write, "you're welcome." ;-D

I've had a feeling Binder was the lead for sometime and, when I read the thing, thought, "oh, no!" Another second banana role; he's hopelessly typecast as the unwanted husband. And, worse yet, Fry plays a sex therapist. Yes, I've always had the same feeling. Ironically, instead of being typecast as the "dashing Darcy" romantic lead-type, I think, as you say he's now peceived by casting directors as "the husband". But looking positive, he could be quite a dashing husband,(certainly will look good!) but perhaps his wife's success has caused a temporary crisis of confidence, hence the sex therapy! I don't think he's the "unwanted" husband. And it is a comedy. And he is playing a television producer, probably rather reserved and aloof, and unable to cope with emotional problems. And maybe it all works out in the end! And the blurb does say the movie is about marriage and commitment as well as love and sex. But he does seem to like playing the husband!!

I am so disappointed about Londinium. CF is way too fine an actor (and handsome, as well) to be doing all of these supporting roles. The movie industry has me completely baffled. I don't know much about SLOW, but that it should fail to find a distributor when the three weird ones (The Dinner Game, Genghis Blues and Cafe Balkan) whose trailers were shown with MLSF in Phila. did is unbelievable. In fact, if I hadn't already seen MLSF in NY, I would have been sweating it out; my sister was giving me some odd looks before the movie started, after seeing those trailers. And I cannot fathom how MLSF is reduced to this paltry release. It is efinitely a mainstream movie. My teen-age son liked it, my sister thought it very good, my mother-in-law and her sister loved it and my husband really enjoyed it too. When I got home from Phila., I found that MLSF is playing in Toronto, so I dragged the three of them off to see it there (have to boost the box-office). Nobody I saw it with can understand why MLSF is not getting a more general release. I am going to have a very hard time supporting any other Miramax films in the future (unless ODB is starri g).

(Bethan) But he does seem to like playing the husband!! Just read in Liz Smith's column (?) about Joe Fiennes and the latest he will be in, and it says that it might be the last where he's a romantic-type lead. Says he wants to play villains! Following Colin's lead? Does that only leave us with Hugh now? argh! Speaking of whom, Hugh was on Letterman Wednesday night and called certain facial hair "bugger's grips," then mumbled under his breath something about how that would be the last place someone like that would grip. I expect that would have people laughing over by you, if I'm interpreting it correctly. ;-D

Karen - it should read hopelessly "miscast" as the unwanted husband, I am sure that there are thousands of us who don't think of him as an unwanted husband. Thanks for the news that MLSF is to open in the UK in October, Allison, that has made my day as I think Colin will have more time to promote it in October, in November he will be busy with 3DOR.

(Bethan) CF is now typecast as the "proper husband" *Sigh* he can play my proper husband anytime he likes :) But i think you may be right :( Am keeping my fingers crossed for Mark Darcy! Please God! btw- shouldnt that start filming anyday now? wasnt it scheduled for early fall?

C'mon, gals, let's recall his recent direct quotes (if there is such a thing in today's press) and the A&E interview, in which we saw the words flow from his lips: (too lazy to search and copy, so I'm paraphrasing). *which is sure to bring out the direct quote police* - He doesn't mind being marginalised - He doesn't enjoy being the center of attention (it gives him "the jitters") - He doesn't want to be recognized everywhere he goes - He's not after a big paycheck ("how many castles can you live in? How many cars can you drive?") or fame ("you'd have to be crazy to want to be famous") - After he finishes a project, he moves on; the rest is "someone else's business" - He doesn't want to keep playing the romantic hero ...And so on. He's been consistent about some of these things for years. IMO this has everything to do with his choice of projects. As to what he's offered--well, we'll never know, will we? I'm just glad he's working so much because if I don't like him in a particular role [Jess], then I won't have to wait more than a year to see him in something new [SiL]. By mixing TV, movies and stage he's in more frequent contact with an audience (including producers, casting directors, critics, etc.) whic should keep new projects flowing in. I hope :-) Does that only leave us with Hugh now? argh! I'm not stumble-bumble-Hugh's greatest fan but I have to admit the trailer for MBE had me in stiches (talk about type-casting, some of those ensemble goons have been in every mob movie ever made). Hugh's character trying to do a New Yawk accent ('git outta heeh') is too funny.

Thank you Karen, for getting us the storyline info on" Londinium". You are a tenacious Firthfan...and we are indebted to you. ****** ... he's now peceived by casting directors as "the husband" IMO that is how he perceives himself . I think he will play this as a comedic role, which he enjoys doing. I can't wait to see him and Stephen Fry together on screen . Can't you see him now...discussing his "dysfunction"...blowing his nose..like he did in MLSF. You want him a romantic hero? Better keep cranking out the ole P&P tapes:-)

(Bethan) he's now perceived by casting directors as "the husband". Maybe but just like you, I�m afraid that he simply likes it. Wouldn�t it be interesting to know what sort of roles he has been offered and what he has turned down since Darcy. This could shock us! So many lustful roles ignored?!.......Surely Darcy made it obvious to everybody that Colin can make a fantastic romantic lead but he possibly just isn�t interested. Looking at all his choices of work after Darcy I don�t think it�s very likely that he�d play Mark Darcy. But Colin is a very surprising person so who knows. I�m prepared for practically anything from him by now.

(Elena) Surely Darcy made it obvious to everybody that Colin can make a fantastic romantic lead but he possibly just isn�t interested. Here here!!

Hi there, JanaC! What I�ve wanted to know for some time is.....are you planning to come to London in January? Btw, after making his careful observations, my friend declared that you were the nicest and loveliest of the March 6th firthettes!!

DreamWorks' "American Beauty" will have its world premiere as a gala presentation at the 24th Toronto International Film Festival. The dark comedy, starring Annette Bening and Kevin Spacey, marks the motion picture debut of director Sam Mendes, best known for his award-winning theatrical career. ********* Karen and all: The talk I've read is that this is one to watch for. Great performances by Spacey, one of my other favorite actors and Bening, and there is a third star, a young chick, as well. I will have to find more info. There are a couple of graphic sexual scenes, as I remember reading. With Mendes, I suppose that's par for the course. Murph

I just mention this as it may be of interest to Firthfans living in or near Coventry ,apparently there is a new production of The Turn of The Screw starring Christopher Cazenove and Sophie Ward opening at the Coventry Belgrade in October. I must say that of all the forthcoming Firth projects this is the one that I am looking froward to most, it has got very good credentials and ITV are very good at publicizing and promoting their forthcoming productions so I would expect a very good TV audience for this o e.

COLIN TO PLAY SHAKESPEARE -according to Deja-com Colin is to play Shakespeare in a 30min film for the Millenium Dome "Time for Blackadder" and it will be shown continually for a year in The Skyscrape building and then shown on SKY in 2001.The writers of the film are Ben Elton & Richard Curtis (NH). So another good reason to come to London in January, as well as 3DOR you can take in the Millenium Dome and visit the Skyscrape building and see Colin as Shakespeare. I needed a reason to visit the Dome now I have one!! (Someone commented that KB would have been better suited to play S, what rot!!)

BTW The Millenium Experience commissioned the film and other cast members include, of course, Rowan Atkinson, Tony Robinson, Kate Moss as Maid Marion and Rik Mayall as Robin Hood.

Thank you Ann..What good news. At last he'll get to play Shakespeare! (Take that John Madden!!) And we'll be there in January!! Looks like Colin is working 'round the clock.Lucky us!!

(Eileen)IMO this has everything to do with his choice of projects. I agree with you, Eileen, but I am annoyed that he does not seem interested in pleasing his fans. I think it somewhat unappreciative, and IMO, a performer has a certain obligation to his audience, within reason, of course. Maybe it is just my own bias that makes me feel so, but there it is.

I think an actor has to please himself if he is going to please his fans. I don't think he can give a good performance if he doesn't believe in the role he is playing. too many take parts for the money and do a poor job because they really don't care about the role. I wonder how many scripts he gets a week. In the book The Making O P&P he says that when he got that script he had a stack of them waiting for an answer but the hadn't found one he liked. With all the work he has been doing he must have a great many coming in.

Excellent news, AnnW, and I agree now we have reason to go see the Dome! Book our tickets, Evelyn. ;-D

(Eileen) IMO this has everything to do with his choice of projects. Exactly. For some reason none of this seems too mysterious to me. And I think it's the greatest luxury in the world to do what you want to do.

(Elena)Are you planning to come to London in January? Yes, wouldn't miss it for the world. (Elena) Btw, after making his careful observations, my friend declared that you were the nicest and loveliest of the March 6th firthettes!! What a very kind thing to say. Tell your friend thank you.

Re. Shakespeare....I think he may have already completed this. I remember seeing Stephen Fry in a TV interview about the time Colin was doing his Refugee Council poetry reading, and SF said that he (SF!) was just off to film a special half-hour Blackadder for the Dome, with all his "mates". Wasn't Colin sporting a goatee at the poetry reading? Probably for playing Will! Not Londinium. Londinium...I'm sure this will be okay. Could be an ensemble piece...I don't see MB as the "star" as such. And wasn't there a description of one shot in which CF, IJ and MH are cruising the canal in Little Venice. And with US finance, there's every chance you'll see it in the US...British films are non-starters at the moment.

It never ceases to amaze me how minutely this lovely group of ladies can analyze something they haven't even seen yet!! :-D Still, it keeps the imagination well-exercised, does it not?

I'm glad we selected to go mid-January for the Spring Reunion or else we'd miss the Dome film. May I ask a dumb question? Who is Blackadder? And will he be the host?

Edmund Blackadder is a fictitious character played by Rowan Atkinson(a highly articulate version of Mr Bean) who has appeared in three (?) comedy series set at different times in English history, most notably the reign of Elizabeth I and the First World War. The brilliant scripts are always by Richard Curtis (Notting Hill) and Ben Elton. From what I can make out "Time for Blackadder" is a skit on English history in which Blackadder meets famous personages of the past. I've been racking my brains to remember what Stephen Fry said....something about the script being so funny that they were all rolling on the floor laughing. I think the "Dome Films" are being shown on special large screens. Sky TV have bought the film for �4million....I'm sure it will be transmitted worldwide once it has finished at the Dome. Thanks Ann for spotting this! And Karen fot the Londinium scoop!

THANKS BETHAN

Are you impressed??? I've been practicing on #61. ..getting ready for the Firthday Party. Not bad...first try...am I a genius, or what? NASA...here I come:-) ***** ( Promise, I won't do this again. )

Here are links to two news stories about the special Blackadder film: http://www.yahoo.co.uk/headlines/19990812/drecord/p3s1_934499247.html http://www.yahoo.co.uk/headlines/19990812/independent/p5s3_934486515.html

FEVER PITCH has been mentioned in the special fall double preview-issue of Entertainment Wkly under September and the subsection "plus", to wit: Soccer-obsessed Colin Firth (sans Mia Hamm, we're afraid) bungles his romance in FEVER PITCH That's it. A confirmation, I hope??

Although I cannot persuade my Husband to visit U.K. in the winter, due to certain monetary things to sort out in mid-year I can at least visit the dome. Thanks for the news, anything relating to Blackadder has to be a hoot, it has been well received in Oz. Hopefully too some of the U.K. t.v. and films Colin has been doing will finally reach us if not MLSF.

Karen and AnnW, thanks for all the Londinium and Millenium Dome news. Goodness, CF is a busy bee these days, isn't he? (JanaC) Since I can't see MLSF yet (thinking about flying to L.A.) Oh, I hope you do! We can have a Jana's/ Firth fest. All Jana, all the time...:-)

COLIN TO PLAY SHAKESPEARE Great news, Ann! (Lidya)he does not seem interested in pleasing his fans....I think it somewhat unappreciative I�ve always admired it how independently he seems to make his choices, without letting things like money or fame or peoples� expectations affect him. I�m sure he�s very interested in pleasing his fans but this really couldn�t be his guiding principle, could it.......poor guy would have to be romantic and half naked all the time! :-D

and he certainly did his best to please his fans in the foyer of the Donmar each evening after 3DOR, I think all who were there would agree, he signed authographs, chatted and was more than obliging with photographs,absolutely charming and friendly. Can't wait to see him again.!!

thanks for the urls, Karen. From the independent: The 30-minute film with an all-star cast,including supermodel Kate Moss as Maid Marion and Pride and Prejudice star Colin Firth as Shakespeare, will be shown in the Dome's Skyscape building all year He may try, but he'll never get away from it...

For all those going to the Spring Reunion in January (to include the Blackadder film)here's a rundown on London's plans for the Millenium. http://www.ricksteves.com/0899greenwich.htm ***** Pride and Prejudice star Colin Firth as Shakespeare, will be shown in the Dome's Skyscape building all year (Gi)He may try, but he'll never get away from it... LOL. It's almost like a tatoo, isn't it? ****

(Elena) I�m sure he�s very interested in pleasing his fans but this really couldn�t be his guiding principle, could it.......poor guy would have to be romantic and half naked all the time! :-D What I fear is that in his desire to avoid being typecast as the romantic lead, he will be in danger of being typecast as the expendable second fiddle!

Thanks Evelyn, for the Millenium Experience link, however, I can't find anywhere where it tells you if you can book tickets in advance and where you can book tickets, have you any idea.

(Ann W)...Re: Millennium Dome..where you can book tickets, have you any idea. Not yet....but let's try British Tourist Association. I will call them in NY. Looks like London is going all out for The Millennium :-)

Oh dear! I had quite decided that the Dome was the most ridiculous idea ever and that I had no intention of visiting it.... I shall have to eat my words! I think this is very good for Colin. Blackadder is becoming almost a British institution and to be involved in this project which so many people in the UK will see, has to be good for his image at least in the UK which is where he seems to want to base his career.

Another nasty little review at CNN. Cannot believe this guy actually watched the movie if he could write this: "You can't even tell that the newcomer is affecting Edward, outside of his being happy to show a pretty woman around the estate and brag about his lame-brained inventions." Wasn't he watching the screen and couldn't he see Colin's face all lit up watching Heloise play the cello? Couldn't he hear the irritation in Colin's voice as he wanted Fraser out of the way during the estate tour? This guy thought he just wanted to brag about his inventions? Holy moly!! Was he out to lunch! http://cnn.com/SHOWBIZ/Movies/9908/13/review.mylifesofar/index.html

Compare these comments to the Film Journal reviewer's remark that CF was close to brilliant. Go figure. Colin's performance is subtle, but, as you mentioned, Karen, Edward's feelings were pretty obvious from the start. As to why... as Paul Ashworth said, "We all have reasons for loving things the way we do", though, like many of you, I see Edward as being infatuated, not in love. BTW, I actually saw some brief television ads for MLSF, on a specialty channel, Showcase, this weekend (my DH alerted me to them). They were in conjunction with a contest and one of the prizes is passes to the film. I don't know if that means MLSF's release is going to be expanded in Canada by Alliance Atlantis which seems to be the distributor here. The two theatres in which MLSF is showing in Toronto are good ones in upscale, accesible areas, but, alas, there was no print advertising for the film this w ekend.

MILLENIUM DOME TICKETS will be on sale from September 22 Hotline # (0)870-606-2000 Adult 20 UKP They are sold by the day. The entire tour of the Dome will take 6 hours. (Didn't ask her if the Blackladder film ran continuously .Hey, we could just bring a blanket and lunch:-D) I called the Millenium Experience Visitor Centre at the Royal Naval College in Greenwich. # 181-305-3456. Good idea to get tickets early since Jan.15th will only be the third weekend. that it will be opened.

Thanks, Evelyn, for the info. Here's a link which says that Skyscape with the HUGE screen is not *in* the Dome, so perhaps we will not have to bring a blanket :-) http://greenwich2000.com/millennium/dome/ ******** London will have a prestigious new entertainment venue situated next to the Dome at Greenwich that will play host to a galaxy of stars and live events during the year 2000. Named Skyscape, and sponsored by BSkyB, the venue will be dedicated to unique live entertainment. The silver coloured building will be a striking addition to the peninsula with its distinctive curved roof sails and pod entrances. Nestling beside the Dome, Skyscape will be a dramatic and attractive futuristic building. Visitors will experience a state of the art venue fully equipped for the 21st century. Its two 2,500-seat cinemas will be the biggest in the UK, using top of the range cinematic screen and sound technology. The building's central foyer consists of a series of clear mezzanine floors and walls that will give visitors panoramic views of the Dome and the river. The building, designed by Edwin Shirley Staging and architects Urban Salon in consultation with the Richard Rogers Partnership, has an exciting dual purpose. As an integral part of the Millennium Experience its two giant cinemas together will see up to 50,000 visitors entertained every day. They will be treated to a film experience that is currently in development. The film will be a unique half-hour �special� featuring the best of British comedy, by our leading comedy writers. The building�s second starring role will see one of the two vast cinema screens 'fly away' to reveal a 20m x 20m live performance stage. Bigger than the Live Aid stage, Skyscape�s stage will be the largest in the UK, breaking the current record held by the Edinburgh Festival (14m x 19m). The stage will transform one cinema into an attractive 3,300 seater performance venue, enabling the staging of a series of separately ticketed events throughout 2000. Top artists such as Robbie Williams, U2 and the Rolling Stones are tipped to appear at Skyscape. But remember, you only have a limited time in which to enjoy these live shows. The season will ast for 100 performances only - just 100 nights to bring the house down. *********

(Anne Hale) if not MLSF In response to a letter I wrote to David Stratton (SBS Movie Show, he said that MLSF will open in Australia in November. I feel very positive about this movie. We WILL NOT miss it!!

Good for you Cathey, and I hope we get it when we are supposed to (UK), in October according to a recent Sir David Puttnam interview. You never know it may still be running in the UK in January, 2000!!

Thanks, Evelyn, for the info. Here's a link which says that Skyscape with the HUGE screen is not *in* the Dome, so perhaps we will not have to bring a blanket :-) http://greenwich2000.com/millennium/dome/ ******** London will have a prestigious new entertainment venue situated next to the Dome at Greenwich that will play host to a galaxy of stars and live events during the year 2000. Named Skyscape, and sponsored by BSkyB, the venue will be dedicated to unique live entertainment. The silver coloured building will be a striking addition to the peninsula with its distinctive curved roof sails and pod entrances. Nestling beside the Dome, Skyscape will be a dramatic and attractive futuristic building. Visitors will experience a state of the art venue fully equipped for the 21st century. Its two 2,500-seat cinemas will be the biggest in the UK, using top of the range cinematic screen and sound technology. The building's central foyer consists of a series of clear mezzanine floors and walls that will give visitors panoramic views of the Dome and the river. The building, designed by Edwin Shirley Staging and architects Urban Salon in consultation with the Richard Rogers Partnership, has an exciting dual purpose. As an integral part of the Millennium Experience its two giant cinemas together will see up to 50,000 visitors entertained every day. They will be treated to a film experience that is currently in development. The film will be a unique half-hour �special� featuring the best of British comedy, by our leading comedy writers. The building�s second starring role will see one of the two vast cinema screens 'fly away' to reveal a 20m x 20m live performance stage. Bigger than the Live Aid stage, Skyscape�s stage will be the largest in the UK, breaking the current record held by the Edinburgh Festival (14m x 19m). The stage will transform one cinema into an attractive 3,300 seater performance venue, enabling the staging of a series of separately ticketed events throughout 2000. Top artists such as Robbie Williams, U2 and the Rolling Stones are tipped to appear at Skyscape. But remember, you only have a limited time in which to enjoy these live shows. The season will ast for 100 performances only - just 100 nights to bring the house down. *********

Oh, bugger!

Oh, Renate!! Such language! ;-D Thanks for the update on the non-Dome place. Perhaps admission will be less and we will not need to stock provisions. ;-D the best of British comedy Hmmm, you could put Colin in that group after FP, ATA, SiL and MLSF...a virtual string of wonderful comedies.

Just a thought on "Time for Blackadder". The different Blackadder series always used the same cast (in different roles) over the years. I'm wondering if Colin's inclusion in this exclusive club may mean that he's definitely doing BJD, as Helen Fielding is a friend of both Richard Curtis and Rowan Atkinson, and he may have met RC in connection with the re-write of the BJD screenplay.

Good thinking Bethan, and he must now be a very good friend of SF, having acted together in three different productions so far this year.

"consecutive productions." The one I am really looking forward to, though, is TTOTS, what a lovely way to spend a winter's evening, cuddled up on the sofa watching ODB playing "The Master" and in period costume!!

The Rowan Atkinson-Richard Curtis-HF connection occurred to me as well, as I caught the end of one of a Vicar of Dilby last night and noticed Emma Chambers in the cast and Curtis' name as producer. She's in that series and then gets cast in Notting Hill. Perhaps Colin is getting in with this group and it might result in his being cast in a certain Working Title production.

sorry. Thanks Cathey for the news, I hope it is right. I have written to Hoyts who is supposed to release MLSF explaining that there are many people disappointed that it was not released in September, and are awaiting eagerly to see a film praised in New York;

My question is will Shakespeare be bald in this portrayal. I hope not.

Whoops, here we go again on one of our favourite topics Ladies!!! Please let's not hasten that ever impending day when we might see our DB hairless!!! Gi, we need your services.

In fact I have been pondering the "hair" question myself in the last 24hrs. I rushed to the video rental shop yesterday to be the one to grab SIL first on its day of release!(No surprise that despite 4th billing of course there is no still containing Wessex on the box!)and having lovingly watched and rewatched Wessex's finest moments, I noticed a slight thinning on top when he bows at court, that I had failed to notice in the 3 times I saw it in the cinema!! Only a few hours left and I have to give it back. A few shops were unable to give me a retail release date as yet---typical!!

I have, as usual, been amazed by the wonderful sleuthing that has been undertaken by all the dynamic Drool Ladies. You have garnered a veritable feast of facts , gossip, and lucious pics and first hand experiences re MLSF for an absentee to luxuriate in. I haven't discovered all the delights yet, but am working on it. Thank You all so much, I have missed my daily "fix" which I hope to reinstate soon. Welcome to all the "newbies", you've found a little bit of heaven on earth!!!

Welcome back, Lizza! Lots been happening here. Colin was obviously just biding his time last year, just gathering his strength for this amazing whirlwind of activity. I too was first in line for the SIL video and watched closely for signs of hair loss. My conclusion was a bit different from yours. I thought there was very little sign of thinning on top. In fact I wondered if they had cheated with some extra bits! You can almost imagine JM screaming "oh no look at Wessex's head, forgodssake! Get him a hairpiece now!"

Hi Lizza! Great to have you back. (Allison)In fact I wondered if they had cheated with some extra bits! Ah, the good old hair topic! We just cannot get enough of his hair can we?!.....Allison, Wessex�s very thick hair made me think of extra bits too and in fact I�m quite positive that there was some. (btw I�ve always hoped that Colin is one of our regular lurkers but as long as we�re discussing his hair I really hope he�s too busy to visit here!! :-))

Welcome back Lizza! So much news--in between the discussions of hair! ;-D I too was watching SiL over the weekend a few times. Love it. Off the topic of hair for a moment, I noticed that as Colin is lifting Gwynnie during the dance number is all smiles, whereas during her next lift by Joe, she is all seriousness. It looked to me like: "Wheeee, aren't we having a good time!" ;-D OK, back to hair...

No really Karen,let's stay with the lifting a little longer in order to dwell on those strong forearms and lean muscular thighs needed for such a lift!! Of course we could go back to hair!!!!

Strong forearms and lean muscular thighs! Ok, that will distract me from hair. Good observation about the strength factor. I remember commenting on Colin's ability to lift Cynthia/Elizabeth out of the wheelchair in FF in one elegant swoosh and who can forget the whirling/twirling bedroom scene with Meg in his arms in Valmont. Not me!

Welcome back Lizza.... Lots of bits and pieces of news since you've been gone. Adds excitement to the summer...after the news-drought of 98. **** Just talked to my local Miramax rep...no word on expansion...In fact he thinks Miramax is taking it off its "schedule of expansion." Oh well, look on the bright side...it will be out on video that much sooner. I figure February 2000.

According to the box office reports, MLSF was being shown on 20 screens this weekend, compared to 17 the week before. The additions weren't here, that's for sure.

Hi Lizza, its great to have you back, we have missed your postings. re MLSFG expanding, I believe it has opened in a second theatre in Cambridge, Boston., so they like it there. I am so cross with Miramax though, how could it possibly succeed with the minimum amount of publicity and advertising it has received. I am sure if they had had a little more faith in it and pushed it a bit harder it would have done very well, I hope it gets better treatment when it is release d in the UK and that we don't have to travel miles to see it as you wonderful ladies have done.

... I hope it gets better treatment when it is released in the UK I hope it plays in Scotland, so Lennie the Head Curler can see it.

(Evelyn) I hope it plays in Scotland, so Lennie the Head Curler can see it. As well as all his curling buddies, not to mention the Hairy Man who actually lives in the village. ;-D This is from Londinium. Binder and Hemingway walking along the Thames.

It's been doctored up to look better by Murph:

In a publication advertising movies soon to be released on video I noticed for SIL that Colin's name was at the top of the "starring" list. WOW. I was so thrilled. I add that my friend failed to appreicate the significance or my joy :-D (btw I�ve always hoped that Colin is one of our regular lurkers but as long as we�re discussing his hair I really hope he�s too busy to visit here!! :-)) This really did make me LOL. Lucky I'm the only person in the office at the moment (7.20am on the east coast of Aus.)

Max Binder must be pretty short....MH towers over him. Do these people expect me to believe that she wants to dump tall- lanky- broad- shoulders- Colin for this guy? No way!....Bad enough for Count Almasy...But this guy looks like one of the Three Stooges!!!C'mon. ****** Hey...here's a goodie....makes up for two of the luke-warm reviews. From Film International: http://www.filmjournal.com/DisplayReviews.cfm?ID=618&UI=9607

I had forgotten how tall Mariel is. Can't wait to see how Colin measures up. (Evelyn) But this guy looks like one of the Three Stooges!!!C'mon. Larry perhaps? LOL, Evelyn. You're right. There will be no contest, at least for the ladies in the audience and we're the ones buying the tickets. Welcome back, Lizza! And LOL too, Elena, for your sly comment about Colin visiting us. Ditto!

(Evelyn) But this guy looks like one of the Three Stooges!!!C'mon. LOL!! But you have to remember Mariel is very tall. She's got to be 6' Watched her the other night in the "President's Daughter" movie and she was like an Amazon woman, cast as the President's secret service agent. She looked like she would take a bullet. And she towered over most everyone. Mike looks like an organ grinder's monkey next to her. Thank goodness, today's leading ladies seem to be all giantesses. More parts for Colin. ;-D

A little news item: "Julie Andrews, the international star of stage and screen is the latest big name to make a film in the Isle of Man. The actress, best known for her roles in Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music, is the lead in the movie 'Relative Values' which is being shot at the Nunnery in Douglas. The story's adapted from a play by Noel Coward, and also features actor Steven Fry. It's the first time the actress has visited the island for fifty years. She first came over with her parents in the 1940s." ****** I know, no mention of Colin. But Stephen Fry's role is the second most important.

A mention in Variety about MEM being cast in the new movie "The Perfect Storm." No mention of her having appeared in MLSF. Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, who recently appeared in John Sayles' ``Limbo,'' will co-star with George Clooney in ``The Perfect Storm,'' a movie version of the best-selling book.....Mastrantonio's other credits include ``Scarface,'' ``Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,'' ``The Color of Money'' and ``The Abyss.''

Another news item for a Colin co-star: (Variety) - Jeanne Tripplehorn, in theaters Friday as Hugh Grant's mobster girlfriend in "Mickey Blue Eyes," will play the female lead in "Relative Values," a feature adaptation of a Noel Coward comedy. The film centers on an aristocratic English family after the son returns home with his fiancee, an American movie star (Tripplehorn). Billy Baldwin, Julie Andrews, Colin Firth, Stephen Fry, Edward Atherton and Sophie Thompson also star. The film, directed by Eric Styles ("Dreaming of Joseph Lees Di"), has just begun filming on the Isle of Mann. Tripplehorn, whose credits include "The Firm" and "Basic Instinct," recently wrapped "Paranoia" for director John Duigan, and biopic "Abbie!" for director Robert Greenwald.

Glad RV is getting so much publicity ...albeit from the co-stars...but never mind ..we'll take publicity for a Colin-film in any form!!Thanks Karen.

Mike Binder looks rather Woody Allen-ish to me. Colin's role could be more romantic...there's no reason why "the husband" can't be romantic! Perhaps he's very much in love with his wife and is unhappy be cause he cares for her more than she cares for him! (Hence the drinking in the pub and the visit to the therapist!) Anyway it's a romantic comedy so there has to be a pairing off at the end...and a happy ending (and Binder can't get the two women surely!!) Way, way back there was some discussion about CF being typecast and given supporting roles. I think he's been very unlucky in that he has received virtually no exposure for his leading roles (MLSF and (sadly) SLOW) and at the moment probably isn't going to make it to the Hollywood A list with the likes of HG, RF and RE. (Unless Mark Darcy gives him a push world-wide) But he seems to have chosen to base his career in London/Europe and is very sensibly mixing film, TV and theatre work, and keeping all opti ns open, and probably doing much more interesting work than would be on offer in LA. As for typecasting, I think he is perceived more as the decent, sensitive, slightly "proper" "husband type"(nothing wrong with this!) rather than overtly or unreliably sexy!

Don't miss Murph's new web page on TEP. It's a work of art. http://members.tripod.com/~i_love_movies/tep/patient.html

My question about Shakespeare's baldness was quite valid. I looked at various pictures of him and at about 30'sh he had thinning hair and was quite bald by the time he must have been 40. I would not want to see C.F. with one of those awful bald wig things. Sorry for the confusion

No confusion - just hate to think about that. True, most pictures we see of Shakespeare have that shining pate. Maybe Colin will wear a hat throughout his brief appearance. The entire thing is only 30 minutes and Blackadder will be visiting with a lot of people.

As for typecasting, I think he is perceived more as the decent, sensitive, slightly "proper" "husband type"(nothing wrong with this!) rather than overtly or unreliably sexy! Isn't it this that we really like about him? There are so many sexy, macho stars around that Colin comes as a refreshing change. It is his sensitivity that is attractive IMHO. and probably doing much more interesting work than would be on offer in LA. I think this is the problem. The sort of things he seems to enjoy doing, are rarely available in LA. I am sure he would like the occasional big pay cheque but then, as was the case with SIL, he would probably sit back and not work for the rest of the year and we would not see him as often! His fastidiousness about self-publicity is understandable IMO. It happens in many careers, not just for actors, that at some point you have to "go public" and really sell yourself, in order to reach the top spot. Colin has decided that his quality of life is more important. You have to admire him for that.

(Karen) Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, who recently appeared in John Sayles' ``Limbo,'' will co-star with George Clooney in ``The Perfect Storm,'' I didn't know MEM was in this - my husband did a day of work on this film just last week. Neither MEM or George were in the scene, though. The DH's regular job is part of the technical crew for the nightly news. There are some scenes in "Perfect Storm" that take place in a newsroom with actors playing news anchors, etc. that he worked on. The weatherman was played by an actor whose name I can't place right now, but he is the fellow who was Kirstie Alley's ex-husband on Veronica's Closet. And with tha bit of trivia, I'll head off to bed!

I DON'T BELIEVE IT, another role for Colin and this time it is a SERIES for ITV, so lots of Colin. Colin it to play Harry Flashman, in Flashman, a series based on the 19th century wartime exploits of Harry Flashman. This is from the TV Times and it says "the series will be bursting with colour, action and romance. Filming on Flashman will be shot across Europe and Wales. Other casting has yet to be finalised though both Joanna Lumley and Felicty Kendal have been mentioned as villaniesses for Flashman" to be shown on TV next year) WOW!!

(AnnW) I DON'T BELIEVE IT, another role for Colin and this time it is a SERIES for ITV, Wonderful! I can't wait for this...maybe A&E will carry it here in the U.S.? Thanks, Ann.

Unless, they delay filming until next Jan/Feb, I don't see how he can now fint in filming BJD!!

"fit"in and sorry about the grammer, I am so excited, 3 future TV projects coming up, I do like TV, it is so instant you can record and re-wind without waiting months and months for release of the film and then the video.

Also there is a lovely photo of Colin, in thoughful mood, accompanying The TV Times Article.

Oh, thank you, Ann. Where can I subscribe to that TV listings magazine you have? ;-) A period series? 19th century wartime exploits? What war could this be? Napoleonic? *ummmm, breeches, again* Doesn't seem like a series that we would get here. Wonder when it will be filmed. Would have to be before he settles in for 3DOR I would think.

(Karen) What war could this be? Napoleonic? *ummmm, breeches, again* LOL! Great minds think alike! :) Please God let there be *tight* breeches! Ann- i take it the article didnt say when the series would be aired, just sometime next year... perhaps they'll film After 3DOR, and show it later in the year, leaving time for BJD this fall. -Hey, hope springs eternal! :) btw- is Flashman a novel?

SB, according to The TV Times "Flashman stories have been told in books written by Bernard Cornwell, the creator of the other great 19th century hero Sharpe". Karen, I can't find an address or tn. to subscribe to the TV Times but I would be more than pleased to send you the photo and article if you would like me to.

Wasn't Flashman a spin off from the bully in Tom Brown's Schooldays. He is not a sympathetic character. Rick Mayall plays his spoof in the Blackadder films as a vulgar, wenching horror. Must go out and buy TV Times!

(SBR) btw- is Flashman a novel? Our *great minds* are on the wrong track, unfortunately... Flashman is the main character of a series of historical novels by George MacDonald Fraser, sort of like the Sharpe series. Titles: Royal Flash, Flashman at the Charge; Flash for Freedom; Flashman's Lady; Flashman and the Redskins; Flashman and the Angel of the Lord; Flashman and the Dragon; Flashman and the Mountain of Light; and Flashman and the Great Game. These books appear to be set in the 1840s-60s. Will pull together some description of the character shortly.

WOW is right AnnW. What a coup...a series yet!!He said he hated series...LE esp. called it a "sentence" I wonder if Sue Birtwhistle is involved in this:-) He must be out to rule TV!!A BAFTA in 2000 for sure.The guy is made for television. Yes...Ann..pl.run, don't walk, to the nearest post office!! Don't you think girls that we should buy Ann a new video recorder??!!

Apparently, Flashie (as his readers call him) travels all over the world. Books have been set in the Crimea, India, China and even America (in the Wild Wild West). There are at least 10 books. Here's a basic synopsis by a reader: "The Flashman series, for those not familiar with it, features a thoroughly despicable, cowardly, womanizing rogue who blunders through history, managing to be present at most of the significant events of the Nineteenth Century. Fraser's historical research is detailed and complete and he manages to teach history in a very entertaining manner. "A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down." The research that goes into these books is formidable. Flashman manages to participate in the Charge of the Light rigade, the Sikh Uprising, England's invasion of Afghanistan, John Brown's taking of Harpers Ferry, Custer's Last Stand, etc."

Flashie.... the womanizing rogue Hey...this is getting bettah and bettah!! ***** A series???Looks to me like he's goin after a steady day-job.

I DON'T BELIEVE IT, another role for Colin Yippeeee! And doesn�t it sound like something we have been waiting and waiting for??......Not the second fiddle this time? I�ve never heard of this Flashman before, sounds funny, like Batman ;-)

thoroughly despicable, cowardly On second thoughts, maybe it�s not exactly what we�ve been waiting for. Looks like he�s going to play an unlikeable weirdo again.

womanizing rogue sounds good Evelyn, but not sure about "thoroughly despicable, cowardly", !!

This Sir Harry has been drawn to be very dashing, don't you think? ;-D He also has quite a following. There is the "Royal Flashman Society" with chapters throughout the world and a webring of fans. Here are a couple of websites. The second is easier to read and has links. http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Set/6463/ http://smithway.org/flashman/MAIN.HTML

thoroughly despicable, cowardly Saw a couple of comments by others talking about this. Am not very clear on this character. Sounds like the stories are funny and he bumbles through them. Also seen the word misogynist and womanizer. Someone called him an "anti-hero." That is very consistent with Colin's selection of parts.

"anti-hero." That is very consistent with Colin's selection of parts *sigh* yep, Karen. And a misogynist too!! Even better :-))!

(Karen) Someone called him an "anti-hero." That is very consistent with Colin's selection of parts. Aw..he's just trying to make people forget him as the romantic Mr. Darcy. "Will Flashimania overtake Darcymania???" I don't think so Fat Chance Colin!!It won't work!! **** Thanks, Karen for the sleuthing.

More about the series from another commenter and BTW, Allison, you are correct, the character apparently did come from T. Hughes "Tom Brown's School Days." "It is hard to believe that this first book of the Flashman series is now nearly 30 years old. Written as if it is an actual published memoir (later books put "a novel" on the cover, probably to protect the publisher from receiving annoying letters of shock and outrage from the truly ignorant and profoundly clueless). This is a book for lovers of historical fiction, military fiction, or British history, but will be enjoyed by those who otherwise would never read in these areas. They are books of humor, following a knave and poltroon -- Harry Flashman -- as he stumbles into many of the great events of the 19th century (often fleeing irate husbands). Events he has visted so far include Little Big Horn, the Chinese Boxer Rebellion, the Indian Mutiny, the American slave trade, and the Prussian court where he was forced to act as a royal imposter. To the world he is seen as a great heroic figure, a d velopment that Flashman finds hilarious yet endlessly useful. This first book introduces the Flashman character, beginning with his being expelled from school, forced into the British Army, and suddenly finding himself in the midst of the disasterous British Afghan campaign. The only books that ever left me laughing harder were the original three books of what should have remained the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy "trilogy" by Douglas Adams. Highly recommended, though with this warning: reading this book and its successors will leave you considerably more educated about the important events of the last century wi hout you even realizing it is happening." From another commenter: "Flashman is the funniest character in modern fiction. George MacDonald Fraser is a wonderful writer. His characters are very convincing and his historical recreations seem extremely real. Add lots of sex, beautiful women and exciting intrigue and you get the most satisfying read around. No wonder we Flashmaniacs wait with bated breath for each of our hero's new adventures."

The character originated in Thomas Hughes' work, "Tom Brown's Schooldays" George MacDonald Fraser continues the adventures of Flashman, a notorious bully after his expusion from Rugby School. Flashy joins the army with a purchased commision, seduces women in all directions, gets out many a tight spot by the most base behavior, and somehow manages to charm the pants off of his readers as well. It seems that all of the weaknesses noted above can prove to be great strengths in the military. Flashman certainly makes a good case for it.

....Add lots of sex, beautiful women and exciting intrigue and you get the most satisfying read around. Alllright!! Told ya'.... Never mind this wholesome PG13 stuff!! *** BTW my dictionary says poltroon is a "spiritless coward" Who cares? As long as he's a sexy coward :-D

Well, I caught a glimse of this news "surfing" at work, and almost leaped in my chair. This is GREAT news. WOW,indeed! Karen has beaten me to it, in giving the low-down on the Flashman novels by George Fraser. There are about a dozen, starting with the Flashman Papers. Sir Harry Flashman is based on the Flashman "Tom Brown's Schooldays". He's an adventurer, a rogue (but no coward otherwise he'd just stay at home), an excellent duellist and has a fondness for beautiful women. He's very much the anti-hero,who dislikes authority,and a there's a strong tongue in cheek feeling to the novels. The Flashman novels have a strong following. The good news is that it's ITV and a series. I should think it will be made along the lines of "Hornblower", ie 3 or 4 2-hour films. So we can look forward to 8 hours of Colin. Mmmm!! And it should be a lavish production. If you got "Hornblower" in the US and elsewhere, you will get this series. Thanks again, Ann. You deserve a medal!

Just getting rid of my multiple posts of same message. ;-D

Firstly, I wan to say I hope he doesn't just sport a moustache, please Colin no moustache!! Here is the whole article "Battle of the Stiff Upper Lip Heroes". It's Tom Jones against Mr. Darcy! Next year's rival big television action series look set to pitch breeches-busting heart-throbs Max Beesley and Colin Firth against one another. Max is to don flying goggles and leather jacket to star as flying ace Biggles in an adaption of the famous Captain WE John's books for BBC1. Meanwhile, ITV are putting their faith in Flashman, a series based on the 19th century wartime exploits of Harry Flashman wit Colin (right) in the title role. Both series will be bursting with colour, action and romance. Like Biggles, the Flashman stories have been told in books written by Bernard Cornwell, the creator of the other great 19th century hero Sharpe. Filming on Biggles looks set for France and Cornwall, while Flashman will be shot across Europe and in Wales. Ohter casting has yet to be finalised though both Joanna Lumley and Felicity Kendal have been mentioned as villainesses for Flashman". (After Karen's descrip ion of Flashman I am wondering if Colin wouldn't be better off playing Biggles!!

A main role in a tv series, oh wow GREAT but.....um this Flashman character seems pretty corny to me, boyish sort of humour has always made me slightly sick. Hope that�s not the genre (but it sure looks like that according to the comments of Flashman fans!!) But naturally Colin can do wonders with any role if he�s allowed to.

While there might be some laddish and borish behavior, on the upside, we have the potential for some devilishly handsome apparel: Alas, I think a mustache may be inevitable

Perhaps they will incorporate this scene from the cover of Flashman's Lady: I love Colin in those cricketing whites! ;-D

Excellent article from Forbes (1995) here. Too long to post, but read it because it tells all about the series/character and author. http://smithway.org/flashman/FORBES.HTM

Karen, was TJ aired in the US,only in my opinion Colin will win hands down, I didn't like TJ (the series) very much and MB did nothing for me.Still it will be very interesting to see if I am right or wrong. Well at the last count we now have 3TVprojects, 1 Millenium Dome project, 2 films and we in the UK still have the pleasure and anticipation of MLSF, and 3DOR to look forward to. By the end of 2000, do you think we could be sick of ODB!!hee hee only joking!!

Great article, Karen. Thanks! The Flashman books are extremely well written (interesting that G M Fraser lives on the Isle of Man) and Flashman is an outstanding literary creation ("who never questions his magnetism to women"!!) Biggles v. Sir Harry Flashman....no contest. Flashman will win hands down. Biggles? No-one reads Biggles books any more (and what a name) I also think that ITV are far superior at the moment in producing historical drama

I absolutely agree Bethan, with the exception of P&P, of course.

By the end of 2000, do you think we could be sick of ODB!!hee hee only joking!! Ann joking like this? She must be giddy from all the news! ;-D Yes, Tom Jones aired in the US. Don't know how it did relative to P&P, but MB is no Colin Firth. "who never questions his magnetism to women"!! Don't you just love this aspect of the series! Flashy's favorite pastime appears to be consorting with the ladies. We are definitely going to have to see the British version of this. I expect a bit of Puritan-style editing from either PBS and A&E is par for the course. Only in the promos (slyly done IMO) did we see Max B flying through the air nekkid onto a bed. (I'm moving to where television is more grownup!!)

Fascinating article....would Flashman be the British counterpart to our Indiana Jones Chronicles? Jennifer was in one of them...Indiana Jones : Austria 1917.He ,too, went all over the world. The TV series aired in 1992. **** Poor Max Beesley (whoever he is)doesn't have a chance up against Colin.

I'm all a dither. Colin on the TV again. (I refuse to even think it may not come to Australia) How marvellous. I'll go out and buy a new set of videos so I get the best recording. Thank you ladies for the info. You've started my day off in the best way possible.

Ann and Karen and all... Thanks, Ann, for such wonderful news about Flashman -- if it is true, and I hope it is. Colin as hero/cad, in a fancy uniform and boots...Sigh... Karen -- we were born uder the same star, I'm sure. I have been looking around too for links and found a few -- plus the Flashman picture you show is also at The Common Reader site. I have put together a very quick page: http://www.geocities.com/~murphyat65/flash.html Had fun with Darcy on it. Murph Can't wait to see that picture.

Any resemblance to Colin:

Looks like your Darcy pic will need a bit more facial hair! Ugh and those mutton chop sides as well. *gag* ;-D

Karen: I love them! Can I put them on the page? And which Flashman site you mentioned is the historical one? Murph

Murph. When I click on the address above I get "OOps can't find the page. All these great Colin films and tv shows. I wonder how many we will get to see.

Great news, ladies. We haven't seen Colin in a role like this in...well, maybe never. A womanizer?! Sounds like Flashman has a certain something women just can't resist. But he's got to lose the muttonchops. Thanks to everyone who provided background. Looks like there will be plenty of material for us all to bone up on before the big event. Question: any idea if this is a mini-series or an actual series that will run for several months or even longer? Not sure if I want Colin so committed to one project though a weekly video tape from England sure sounds enticing. ;-)

Flashman!!!!!!11Wow

If it's an ITV "series" the standard format will, I think, be like "Hornblower"or "Sharpe", ie three or four self-contained but consequetive 2 hour films , following Flashman's career in various historical contexts (a great way to learn about history!). "Hornblower" cost �12 million (�3million per film) and I would expect "Flashman" to have a big budget, and maybe take 6 montns (or more )to shoot. Re. Flashman's "cowardice"...he narrates all the novels, and has no illusions about himself. He basically wants to survive, and uses expedience rather than pointless gallantry. But he still, much to his surprise, gets recognised as a national hero!

Thanks for the above Bethan. I have to say I really enjoyed "Hornblower", it was very stylish and well done and if you say it could take six months, I would think it would have to be filmed after 3DOR finishes, so possibly still time for him to do BJD. BTW Jana and Winter, according to The LA Times Calendar Live, MLSFseems to be playing at 5/6 theatres now, is this true because if so it must be good news, wasn't it originally only playing at 2 theatres?

A description of Flashman's regiment, the 11th Hussars. "the Hussars are the most brilliant of cavalry and the 11th Hussars were superb. They wore trousers of cherry colour, jackets of royal blue edged with gold, short coats worn as capes and high fur hats....the brevity of their jackets, the irrationality of their headgear, the incredible tightness of their cherry-colored pants, altogether defy description: they must be seen to be appreciated". !! I don't think "appreciation" will be a problem! BTW, from what I remember Flashman was married to an Elizabeth (Elspeth?) and was fond of his wife, but then he did spend so much time away from home!

I would expect "Flashman" to have a big budget, and maybe take 6 montns (or more )to shoot. I am sure they must begin shooting next year. It would take too long to have a shoot starting now as the weather begins to worsen and the days grow shorter. In that case, as you say, still time for BJD. If that happens, what a few months it has been on the CF front! I am sure being married makes it easier for him to work at this pace. As a single man he probably needed more time to attend to his social life!

Hornblower was four two-hour episodes, but Sharpe was more (I think). I've only seen the Sharpe series on the History Channel here. (Does anyone know if it was ever shown on another?) If Flashman keeps to the Hornblower format, then it has a better chance of being shown on an A&E or PBS because if it becomes a longer series, I can't imagine who will pick it up here. The ratings have shown that Americans will not commit themselves to watch longer miniseries anymore.

Thanks, everyone for all the news. I hope we get confirmation on this soon. It sounds like a terrific role for Colin. I just read the Forbes article and I particularly like the bit about Flashman being chief stud to a black she-devil; I can't wait to see CF as a sex slave.

(Lynda) I can't wait to see CF as a sex slave. LOL!! Aha!! You're true nature emerges. Had us fooled with your thoughtful comments on MLSF. ;-D Have picked up the first book, Flashman. The rest I'll probably get out of the library. Wouldn't you think they might reissue the books with *guess who* on the cover? Boxed set with pics? I know, am dreaming.

Ann, FYI: MLSF is still playing here at the same theater. There were no ads in either newspaper's weekend section today. Argh!!

I think Marcia has been holding out on us!! Checked on the webpage for the Sandwich Islands Chapter (SIC HQ) of the Royal Flashman Society and they've chosen to focus on Flashman's Ladies. SIC HQ http://www.maui.net/~makule/flashy.html Table of all his women: http://www.maui.net/~makule/ladies.html His wives or those pretending to be: http://ns.netmcr.com/~ambro/wives.htm Listing of Flashman caught in flagrante seducto (with his pants down): http://ns.netmcr.com/~ambro/seducto.htm

can't wait to see CF as a sex slave. *lol*! Or to see him doing the �deed� on furs in a sleigh. Happy thought indeed!

Ooooh, I adore fuzzy guys. I cannot wait to see him in full fur. I loved him in Nostromo for that reason (well, there are others, but...). And as a sex slave? I shall have to reinstate my Drool machine and get it pumping again.

AnnW according to The LA Times Calendar Live, MLSFseems to be playing at 5/6 theatres now, is this true because if so it must be good news, wasn't it originally only playing at 2 theatres? Wouldn't be surprised... though in my local area, it's still the two same theatres. The added venues may be in the not-too-distant suburbs... BTW-- Hi all... been lurking. Not much to interject, I guess. Work has been keeping me busy, though I'll be finished in a week or so. Then, depending on schedule and finances, may head to the east coast to visit friends before school starts. I DID, however, have a funny "encounter' last week... driving home from work one day, when who was driving next to me but a Firthesque profile in a black VW Jetta. Reasonable car... it's possible. Anyway, I nearly got myself into quite an accident trying to get a closer glimpse of him. He looked almost exactly like him, though the head seemed a bit off proportion to the upper torso. I don't recall him being 'big headed' either... Anyway, he turned off the main street (La Brea) before I could get a longer limpse...

Good to have you back, Winter....we have missed you. Did you see MLSF? What did you think of it and ODB? Any comments on 121?

I just checked the poll at Celebrity 100 and Colin is down from 225 in the last one to 37 in this one. I think I submitted at least half of them. doesn't this poll run in England?

Has anyone given this webpage of the Flashman 1975 film starring Malcolm Mc Dowell? Flashman 1975 Sorry Ann... I think a mustache is going to have to be de riguer.

Thanks, Evelyn, for the Malcolm McDowell link. There are pictures of MM in that role. Hi ya, Winter. Even if you don't have a Firthesque sighting, check in with us. Was going to send Jana to check in on you. Remember about those Alsatians. ;-D

Thanks Karen and Evelyn for all the links you�ve posted, very informative. I think I�m beginning to get an idea about this Flashman thing although frankly I�m not yet 100 % sure if I like the idea of Colin doing this! Oh well, he�ll be sexy and funny as hell for sure but I actually wished him to do something modern and intellectual next. Flashman has taken me by surprise. But I can see why he�d choose to do it. He obviously wants to do comedy and this role is a great new chance to say goodbye to the Darcy type. It�s a chance to be a �lad � again which I think he likes, and it requires an athletic actor with skills like horse riding and fencing, no problem for Colin. And I remember he very much enjoyed the action bits with horses and guns in Nostromo. Got to face it, he�s exactly in the right age to be a womanizing rogue. And Flashman seems have some similarities with Colin himself! A cosmopolitan with few illusions about authorities or himself.

(AnnW) according to The LA Times Calendar Live, MLSFseems to be playing at 5/6 theatres now, is this true because if so it must be good news, wasn't it originally only playing at 2 theatres? I checked the paper and it is showing at 5 theatres - up two from the original three (it opened at two theatres in LA and one in Orange County). I was worried because it was scheduled to close today at one of the original three, but three new ones have picked it up. Unfortunately, three of the five theatres where it is now playing are in Orange County which is pretty darn far. (OK, not as far as flying from OK City to Dallas, but still pretty far.) And it's a bit odd that the two L.A. theatres that ar now showing it are very close to each other. I can't figure out the release strategy for this movie, if there even is a strategy. The ad for MLSF is about the size of a postage stamp, BTW - practically had to get a magnifying glass out to read the theatre listing. But on a happy note, I played hookey from work yesterday and saw MLSF for a second time. winter!! So glad to see you here. Have missed you and am glad you were not set upon by Alsatians :-).

(Elena)Re; Flashman being similar to Colin..."A cosmopolitan with few illusions about authorities or himself." Thank you Elena, you always bring us such interesting insights...Hang in there..he'll do an intllectual role some day...(Chafsky?)and then we'll all complain :-). Just keep thinking how great those thighs are going to look in the tight breeches :-D **** Hey, it's Ann and Karen that are bringing us all the news...Ann breaks it and Karen follows up with all the resource material. What a team!!

sorry for italics

MLSF Expanding into New Cities Karin reported on Topic 121 that MLSF is now showing in Cleveland, OH. Mari tells us that it is also playing in Oakland, CA, and is scheduled to open in Sacramento, CA, next week (Aug 27th). Have heard that it is no longer playing in Washington, DC. Has it quietly opened anywhere else? Note: If you're a lurker and have new information and don't know how to post, just email Heide/me at nomdedrool@yahoo.com and we'll post it for you. ;-D

(Elena) ... I can see why he�d choose to do it. He obviously wants to do comedy and this role is a great new chance to say goodbye to the Darcy type. /.../ he�s exactly in the right age to be a womanizing rogue. And Flashman seems have some similarities with Colin himself! God, I hope not!!! I have just started the original book and have only gotten a few chapters in. So far he's beaten up his father's mistress when she repelled his forceable attack on her (after having yielded once earlier); fought a duel in which he promises much to the man who will hand his opponent an unloaded gun, and then blackmails him into silence with no remuneration; and has bragged about flogging at least one of his Indian servants every day to keep them in line (and "for sport") and is always referring to them as "niggers". Maybe this is some masculine form of subtle satire, but even allowing for the mores of the time, I'm afraid that, so far at least, the humor has eluded me...or rather the nature of the man left such a bad taste in my mouth that I could only partly appreciate the situations he was getting himself into. Zero empathy. I can only hope that when they script for television that they tone down or ignore some of his nastier characteristics -- I would hate to see Colin playing his character very true to the book's depiction. "Cad" is but a mild term for this bloke... >:-{ Taken apart from all this, Flashman's adventures could be very entertaining and even funny. I can only hope that Colin chose this project as a result of reading an "expurgated" adaptation for television, not the original. Karen, you said you had gotten the first book too. What was your initial impression? Am I overreacting??

(KJ) I can only hope that when they script for television that they tone down or ignore some of his nastier characteristics They will of course, just to make the series more sellable. I expect them to make a strongly altered version emphasizing the adventurous, colourful, funny and even romantic aspects of characters and happenings, leaving most of the boorish and crude macho stuff out of it. What bugs me is that the series will automatically increase the demand for the books too. I understand now why they were never translated to Finnish, KJ.

KJ...Flashman is masculine satire, particularly the first novel. Flashmnan becomes a national hero and saviour of national pride, after fighting (and sometimes he does actually fight) in one the most badly managed campaigns in British history, which resulted in almost all the British army being wiped out. At a deeper level, Fraser is using him as the anti-hero to comment on the idiocies and wastage of was. Superficially, it's a rollicking yarn (although almost everything that happened in the Afghan campaign is true...most of the characters and events are real) told by a man who has no illusions about himself or heroism, who doesn't want to die in pointless actions sanctioned by incompetent and blundering commanders, and is told in the spirit if the age (hence, references to "niggers" etc). Don't take Flashman too seriously!!! By his mid-thirties. he calculates he's slept with over 500 women, many of whom have their very wicked way with him. (We won't see his encounter with the Emperor's No 1 Concubine on screen!) He mellows with age, becomimg a sort of 19th cenury James Bond. And always remains in love with his wife, and devoted to his family. Some redeeming virtues! :-)

(Bethan) And always remains in love with his wife, and devoted to his family. Some redeeming virtues! :-) Sorry, Bethan, I've known too many philandering married men to think that loving their wives and families are redeeming qualities... In fact, to my mind, they are probably just the opposite. If at least they didn't have wives and families, I'd understand them more! KJ's description is of a violent, mysoginist and racist figure, and I second Elena's comments and fears about what attracted Colin to the role and what it may do for the books.

Well, I'll just repeat...please don't take the character of Flashman too seriously! It's all very tongue-in-cheek, and that's how it will be adapted (and played) for television. The Flashman novels are very popular, particularly with historians, who relish the satirical element! If you take the novels (and the character of Flashman) too literally, you won't appreciate them! :-)

Can�t exactly imagine our righteous refugee campaigner flogging �niggers� in his movies!!! Seriously, Colin has obviously decided to take the role after reading the script, so the script must be very different from the books in certain ways. If the books are as popular in Britain as you say Bethan, I�m sure that Colin has read them long ago. However, the script is what matters to him primarily of course. It would be interesting to know how carefully actors usually read the books that their roles and scripts are based on, and I really hope they do.....but it can be a tough task sometimes. In this case one should read, what 10 books to know exactly what Flashman is about.

If the books are as popular in Britain as you say Bethan, I�m sure that Colin has read them long ago. The Flashman books have been around for nearly 30 years. Some of the titles (not all!) are on the "Recommended reading" list in the 6th form (17-18 year olds) history department at my sons' school. As Colin's dad taught history, I'm sure Colin would have read them! And the tone is satirical, not literal.

Thanks Bethan. I agree that you must take the books as satire and the use of the word nigger was true to the period, place and people. Also, with the first book, Flashman is young, brash and cowardly. As I recall, some of the articles said he would mellow and mature, which I expect to see later. I'm about 2/3s through the first book and it's a very light and fast read. He is usually in the position of having heroism thrust upon him or is astute enough to take advantage of situations. He is not at all a likeable character. What you do laugh at is the way circumstances turn out in his favor. You also have to laugh at the real life characters who populate Flashman's world. I thought that his portrayal of Cardigan with his lisp was hysterical! To add to the appearance of authenticity, the author uses endnotes to either substantiate or refute his own portrayal of events. Nice and amusing touch. I would expect that Colin's decision to play in this series is based on the script, which would likely concentrate on Flashman's involvement in moments of history, rather than dwell on his early life. If anything, they may do a little flashbacking, but I doubt they start from the day he was expelled from Rugby. I'm sure the script will be written to be acceptable to today's audiences.

Minor mention in today's Times. Article is about whether Prince William may be descended from Shakespeare as a result of new theories about the identity of the Dark Lady. "In the box-office hit Shakespeare in Love, the Bard's girlfriend, Viola, is blonde. Played by Gwyneth Paltrow, she, like the Dark Lady, eventually leaves Shakespeare to marry the charmless Lord Wessex, played by Colin Firth."

Arrived late last night, had a fantastic time, hello my dear Firthettes! Thank you all for being being so together, the amount of information is extreme! I want the Cliff-notes!!! When I left we had just started on topic 5! I have skimmed lots but do forgive me if in the future I repeat something which has already been said. :-) I have checked my Sunday paper and there is no more MLSF here, it came and went in a flash (man!). I knew it would happen but I am still very upset. I will be at the other sites and topics as soon as I get some time. The most incredible thing happened! My DH suggested visiting Citta delle Pieve again (I must have some very strong mental powers), so I made him take me to San Biagio again (where they married), and this time we walked around and I took pictures. Karen, I can send it to you to post, I do not have a scanner. This is only a fleeting stop today, I have much to do, but I must congratulate Colin on his next role. The dashing hero/anti-hero suits me perfectly, bravo! A big kiss to all etc...

Welcome back, Moon!! :-D Take your time in catching up. AnnW has been relentless in her pursuit of Colin news and uncovered all the big scoops. FYI, MLSF hasn't made it to your city yet. So do not fret. You haven't missed it. But you'll have to read the fine print as it may arrive with little or no fanfare. Call your arthouse cinema and ask, but do no take DH. He attempt to ruin it for you. It is ALL Colin!! ;-D If you'd like to send me the pics, I'll scan them in. Again, welcome back. We missed you.

Welcome back, Moon! Sad to hear that MLSF is coming and going so quickly, not having seen the film I can only wonder why this happens. Not enough audience for this type of movies? Or is the film actually that bad?! Fever Pitch is still running in a Helsinki movie theater, for the eleventh week now and they tell me that it�ll still run for at least two weeks more. I asked about the success of it and they said it has sold moderately well. I�m happy that it�s liked here, it shows that there are still a lot of people who like to see good acting in small European movies about ordinary peoples� lives.

Welcome back, Moon!

Lest one think that only Harry is only Flashman to seek companionship outside of marriage, evidently the wife does as well. According to the Flashman website, Harry questions the paternity of his own children and most of the dates given for conception seem to correspond to dates when he was elsewhere. (One gives as good as one gets!!) Elspeth, his wife, who he does marry as a result of her uncle's offer (duel or marry) is portrayed as a brainless but pretty woman who just likes the physical act of sex. Sounds perfect for him.

Ah, but in "Flashman's Lady" Harry goes to great lengths and considerable personal risk to rescue his wife who has been kidnapped... We've got a few "Flashmans" on our bookshelves, and Harry does mature! By the time he's in his early thirties, he's a Colonel, and has a Victoria Cross and a Knighthood, and lthough he still has the same wariness of prematurely dying in action, he is also very proud and preotective of his (admittedly ill-earned) good name. Which leads him to almost genine acts of gallantry. I'm all in favour of Flashman and colourful historical drama!

We're glad to have you back, Moon. Don't worry, the posts aren't going anywhere. Send the hubby out for bread and milk and catch up while he's gone. Yes, I do want to see San Biagio! I just bought a travel book on Italy and am devouring it. Can't imagine that Colin would play anything but the more mature Flashman...someone a little more redeemable than the younger Harry described in the first book(s). MLSF is still hanging on by a thread in Philadelphia. It's not a bad film at all, Elena, and there is a large audience for its genre but the larger audience will not seek out such a small film when there are so many other films that are more accessible.

I just paid a visit to Colin Chat - hadn't been there in weeks - and as usual there was no activity there. I know I go there fewer and fewer times because I never meet up with anyone there and am wondering if that's the case for the rest of you. Has anyone had a conversation with someone there recently? Anyway, I bring it up because Chat is a great forum for spreading the word and possibly bringing newer people into the fold and it's sort of sad to see it so underused. I'll try to visit it more and if you're a Chat fan, I hope you'll return more often as well. And please...try to remember to hit the Leave button before exiting Chat.

I have been there many times Heide, as you will see but have never met up with anyone, it is very sad but I guess with all the different time zones it is difficlut. Welcome back Moon, when you have a minute I would love to hear about your visit to London and TRT.

(Gi) KJ's description is of a violent, mysoginist and racist figure, and I second Elena's comments and fears about what attracted Colin to the role and what it may do for the books. Perfect description of the initial description, Gi...he is pictured as a sadistic bully in many ways. I want to stress that because of this, I had my fears too, which is why I brought it up, but it had already occurred to me that I hadn't read very far in, and perhaps things would improve. Thanks, Bethan, for assuring me that he mellows with age. :-) (Bethan) ...please don't take the character of Flashman too seriously! It's all very tongue-in-cheek, and that's how it will be adapted (and played) for television. I wanted to, but his skewering that stray dog for "lance practice" was a little over-the-top to be taken as "tongue-in-cheek", I'm afraid. I didn't read further in because I was finally so repelled..."T'ain't funny, MCGee"...at least not for me. (Karen) ...with the first book, Flashman is young, brash and cowardly. As I recall, some of the articles said he would mellow and mature/.../ I'm sure the script will be written to be acceptable to today's audiences. (Elena) Colin has obviously decided to take the role after reading the script, so the script must be very different from the books in certain ways. Yes, I was thinking how the attitudes of the age ("stray dogs are vermin...kill it") went along with the mind-set of adolescent men out to prove something, and I held that out as a final hope. I shall take a deep breath and plunge further in. Elena, you have touched upon the very point that seriously disturbed me in the first place...Colin, with his concern for minorities and refugees, couldn't possibly have accepted this role if it had followed the books too literally...it is totally against the grain. So he MUST have taken it because its characterization was greatly altered from the original...at least as it starts out in the early phase of the books. I couldn't conceive of anything else.

Your discussion about the "moral and political incorrectness" of the Flashman character brought to my mind the British mini-series with Ian Richardson as Francis Urquart. The titles of the series were "To Play the King" and "The Final Cut", very dark, sarcastic comedy, and very successful, I believe. Richardson played a really nasty and deeply evil character, but he was so delightful, and made you like him despite all his nastiness. It must be a wonderful challenge for an actor to play such a character. I particular for those who feel trapped in the Mr. Nice Guy corner :-) BTW, it was with Susannah Harker, and written by Andrew Davies. I trust the British talent for dark and sarcastic comedy. And ITV brought us MOTM, and I'm sure they will make Flashman into a great film, even without ODB, and much more with him. I can't wait to see it!

Am looking forward to Flashman's Lady. I believe that is the one where he performs stud service--our little sex slave. ;-D Have picked up the remainder of books from the library. Quite a stack to get through. While "To Play the King" was a pure political satire, I can't see Flashman the same way. FU (and he was called that in the series) was evil--mean, nasty, scheming and evil.

KJ.......again, I think you have to see the first "Flashman" book as a reflection of the age, as well as satirical in intent. I think Renate's comparison with the Francis Urquart type of black comedy is a good one. We're not going to see Colin skewering dogs or flogging servants (although that is actually what officers of Flashman's class did) in a TV adaptation, but Flashman does start out as a cad, who unintentionally becomes a hero, and then in a long and distinguished career actually manages to live p to that heroic status (although not in his own estimation...he has no illusions about himself, or indeed, about anyone). And the novels (particularly those which focus on the military campaigns, especially the ill-fated Crimean War in which an unprecidented number of men died in sub-human conditions) are known to be strongly anti-war...Fraser, though Flashman, is basically saying that war is a mis-managed mess, in which hundreds of thousands of men die because of the incompetence of generals and politicians. On a much lighter note, the books are also very funny, and if the likes of Joanna Lumley are to play the villainesses, it will be good clean fun (no dead dogs!)

My last word on Flashman...but I don't want you to give up on him after afew chapters. He does mellow...in one of the later books he's recounting the tale of his adventures with John Brown the abolitionist, to his great-grandchildren (he's now in his nineties). "They fell asleep in the middle of it, and so did I, among the broken sweetmeats on John (his g-grandson)'s coverlet, and woke at last to the touch of soft lips on my aged brow to find Elspeth shaking her head in fond despair". So they don't do too badly!

Glad to hear it. I'll read on in then. :-)

I have been to the chat room several times but never find anyone there so I don't even check in.

(Karen) You're true nature emerges. Had us fooled with your thoughtful comments on MLSF. ;-D Well, you didn't really think I like FF and P so much merely for their brilliant screenplays and world class acting, did you? ;-D I admire the discipline of those of you who are beginning with the first Flashman novel - as for me, I just had to know more about Flashman the chief stud and sex slave... I am completely and utterly agog !!! Some quotes from Flashman's Lady for those of you who can't find it (Marcia, get that drool machine going): "...to my stricken horror I realized that my indecently torn and ragged trousers (I'm claiming these should they appear in the series ;-)) were failing to conceal my instinctive admiration of her majesty's matronly charms..." "...one wrench [by the queen] and my breeches were a rag on the floor." "...she suddenly picked me up bodily... flung me down, and began galloping me with brutal abandon..." "I don't mean she enjoyed inflicting pain on her men, like dear Lola with her hairbrush, or the elfin Mrs. Mandeville of Mississippi, who wore spurred riding boots to bed ... No, Ranavalona was simply an animal...and you ached for days afterwards. I suffered a cracked rib, a broken finger, and G-d knows how many strains and dislocations in my six months as stallion-en-titre, which gives you some idea." "You may wonder... how I could bring myself to make love to that female beast. Well, I'll tell you; if it's a choice between romping and being boiled or roasted, you can bring yourself to it, believe me." I'm aquiver with anticipation!!! (Heide) But he's got to lose the muttonchops. If this series will bear any resemblence to the books, ODB is going to need every strand of superfluous hair to disguise his real appearance, if he wishes to avoid being attacked in the streets. Seriously, though, this role will give CF a chance to really stretch his acting muscles; I'm sure that as Colin is too fine an actor to render this character one-dimensional, he will bring nuances to the character which will make Flashman sympathetic. And we get to see hours and hours of him in (and if we are very fortunate, out of) period costumes.

(Lynda) this role will give CF a chance to really stretch his acting muscles I've never heard it called that! ;-D LOL, Lynda. Think I will skip ahead two books. What a collection of quotes!!

Renate, I enjoyed the Francis Urquhart series immensely. There was a first part (it was a trilogy) called House of Cards, which set the pattern for To play the King and The Final Cut. You are right, if a cruel and impossible character like FU can be played in such a way that we are sympathetic to him, Colin can do the same for Flashman. KJ and Karen, let us know how things progress in the next few books :-)

Welcome back, Lizza and Moon! I've been gone for only ten days and am swamped by all the posts and news--can't imagine the volume you're contending with. Way to go, Ann and Karen. You make a great newsbreaking team. Bethan, you hit the nail on the head about Blackadder. I recall the speculation at the time news was breaking about Londinium and RV. Regarding his-hair-Louisa-his-hair (don't hit me for dredging this up again): I read an article in NY Times Magazine many weeks ago about the use of "hair wranglers" on movie sets. It's v. common but usually kept quite hush-hush. A popular "wrangler" (honest, that's what they're called) was interviewed only under conditions of anonymity to avoid being traced back to his client(s). After seeing those Donmar pics, I think it fairly certain ODB's pate had been wrangled in at least SiL. As for the future ..I'm not looking forward to seeing him even remotely hairless. Call me shallow--you're right. I like Colin's hair and am sad to see it go. Was it you, Bethan, who posted your list of reasons why he's working so much this year? I was tempted to add "racing against receding hairline" but got sidetracked heeheehee! Regarding Flashman: (not having heard of these novels before, I confess upon first reading the title that my next thought was of Flash Gordon--must be the Flash connection ;-P) my reaction is in sync with yours, Elena. The rogue antihero (whether it is hero or antihero really depends on how the script treats the character and renders the stories palatable for a TV audience) goes against the straightlaced Darcy type but there should be plenty of fencing, horseback riding and a few other things ODB loves o do ;-D. Colin has said he seeks variety in his roles! And this one should appeal to men as well as women (albeit for different reasons). Karen, we did see MB's nekkid butt during the Tom Jones telecast, not just on the promos. Perhaps you turned your head for a moment and missed it 8-D ! I thought it particularly tasteless that Max was hawking the TJ boxed video set at the conclusion of each episode. I remember being quite relieved that ODB had not lowered himself (or been forced) to that level! Uughh!

Thank you for the welcome. I will try to find some time each day to stop by. (Eileen), The rogue antihero (whether it is hero or antihero really depends on how the script treats the character and renders the stories palatable for a TV audience) goes against the straightlaced Darcy type but there should be plenty of fencing, horseback riding and a few other things ODB loves to do. I hope he loves to do those things, because I very much love to see him do them. ;-) When will they start filming, and where, does anyone know?

(Eileen) "hair wranglers" on movie sets. Don�t hit me either girls, I just want to ask Eileen this little question: did that article reveal exactly what a hair wrangler does? (Eileen) And this one should appeal to men as well as women Yep, that is obviously the goal because the role has been given to Colin and no-one else. Obviously Flashman�s erotic attractiveness is going to be a very important point in this film, otherwise they would�ve asked a very different sort of guy to play him!! (wishful thinking :-)

I'm not Eileen (obviously) but I suppose that a hair wrangler ties hair extensions to the person's own hair to make it appear longer and fuller. I believe Mel Gibson went through the treatment for Braveheart, and "read somewhere" that so did Gwynnie for SIL, also (same source, a People-like portuguese magazine) Madonna, Donatella Versace and others.

(Eileen) "hair wranglers" on movie sets Are you sure the NYT didn't err? Could be "hare" wranglers for movies that feature rabbits! ;-D BTW, Elena, most often on movie credits the term wrangler is used for the people who take care of animals like horses or dogs or whatever... But hair extensions works for me. Wild critters, those hair extensions.

(Elena) did that article reveal exactly what a hair wrangler does? It was very vague on this matter (why give up the secrets of the trade?). To my recollection, wranglers handled everything from wigs, weaves and toupees to ultrasecret formulas used to make hair appear thicker. Extensions weren't mentioned per se, since discussion focused on covering the top of the head vs. hair length (but you might know better than I, Gi, if extensions can do that too). "Scalp painting" was also mentioned. I remembered seeing late night commercials for one of these products (looks ike a can of spray paint) and was ROTFLMAO. I guess there's a time and place for everything! (Karen) most often on movie credits the term wrangler is used for the people who take care of animals like horses or dogs ...and to control receding harelines. Get it? Yukyukyuk (aren't you happy I'm back? :-P)

(Eileen) aren't you happy I'm back? :-P) But of course! Before I run off to my scalp painting class, I have a new *theory* as to why CF is working so much. The new house had to be completely gutted and he didn't want to be there. Left Livia to deal with the construction crews. ;-D

Head curler, hair wrangler, scalp painter..... what next? =8-o

On the subject of hair...(and pray forgive me for bringing this up), when I saw ATA, I thought that in the scene where he is shirtless in bed with JL, his underarms looked hairless. Can this be true, or is it an optical illusion? I meant to ask this question when the picture in question was posted, but in truth, I was afraid of the answer!

It was there...just so light-colored so as not to be very noticeable.

It was there...just so light-colored so as not to be very noticeable. They must not have employed a hair wrangler, whose job it must be to dye ALL hair to match. Where do I go to become one of these? ;-D

I have absolutely nothing to say to all this except I'll soon get washboard abs from laughing so much. Play on!

Maybe that's CF's ultimate problem...often he's so light-colored as to be barely noticeable. I've noticed that the level of admiration (and noticeability) increases exponentially as his coloring is made darker...it reaches its zenith, of course, as Darcy...no wonder this seems to be the favorite CF-role to the vast majority of his female fans. I wonder if there is an inverse correlation on the part of his male audience??

You think he has to be fair to impress a male audience. No I think the problem is us. So many women in the U.K. and elsewhere fell for him that our men felt threatened, I can't mention him to my DH without some remark and as I want to see all the videos etc. when they come out I have to be very careful - the main problem I fear is jealousy

Lidya, you made me LOL with your question about hairless armpits. Somehow it brought a mental picture of one of those disgusting cats with no fur (sorry if anyone here loves that breed, but they give me the creeps). Ack! I'm going to have to go and throw P&P into the VCR to get some handsome hair therapy. But, could they have used scalp painting in P&P? No, no I won't even go there :-). Moon!! Welcome home to Drool-ville. You were missed, dear.

If this series will bear any resemblence to the books, ODB is going to need every strand of superfluous hair to disguise his real appearance, if he wishes to avoid being attacked in the streets. I don't think well see a literal translation to screen. :-( Haven't read "Flashman's Lady" but I would think that Flashman's encounter with the Emperor's First Concubine in "Flashman and the Dragon" (she becomes somewhat fixated on what she calls "the happy part"!) takes some beating. :-) Seriously, though, this role will give CF a chance to really stretch his acting muscles; I'm sure that as Colin is too fine an actor to render this character one-dimensional, he will bring nuances to the character which will make Flashman sympathetic. And we get to see hours and hours of him in (and if we are very fortunate, out of) period costumes. Agreed, Lynda. There's a lot more to Flashman, and a good script will bring this out. If I were adapting the novels I'd start with the young Flashman being expelled from Rugby, and then take a lot of dramatic licence, by having Flashman disappear "abroad" for several years, and then return to, reluctantly, join the army. I'd incorporate elements of the first novel (The Afghan campaign etc) as Flashy has first of all to be seen as cadd-ish to give the narrative any dramatic thrust. And if they are shooting in Wales, well, Snowdonia (bleak, mountainous)is well-known for doubling as the Khyber Pass on movie sets.

OK, have finished the first novel. Flashy has become a national hero (undeserved of course) and been returned home. While he does bad things, at least he doesn't intentionally misrepresent himself. Usually, when the smoke clears, he is the last one there and everyone assumes he was a hero. He doesn't correct them and rides the waves of adulation. As Bethan said earlier, Flashy's commentary is anti-war and is especially critical of the people in charge. He paints them all as idiots. Flashy is very a tute in assessing human behavior and has good instincts, but has no interest in fighting and dying. He wants to live. A number of people do actually figure out that he is a coward, but they conveniently die and can never expose him. I did expect to see a little growth in his character, but that didn't happen. About the only change I see thus far is that he realizes he loves his wife, who he begins to suspect has been cheating on him. Also, the book had an "oh-no" ending. Onto the next... About the film, maybe they'll use brother Jon as the younger Flashy.

According to the weekend box office report, MLSF grossed $55,742 on 22 screens in the US/Canada, bringing its cumulative gross to $430,590 for its five-week run.

On ET's weekend edition, which I saw late late Sunday night, they showed a little snippet of MLSF, mentioning its expansion. But the interesting thing was a bit of an interview with MEM which was obviously done on location. She was dressed as Moira Pettigrew. So ET sent its reporters and cameras up to Scotland during the filming and likely interviewed all the main actors. Where is this footage? What are they waiting for?

(Jana) But, could they have used scalp painting in P&P? I don't think they did, because his scalp is visible in some scenes, like when he stops Lizzy from getting into the carriage a Pemberley. (Karen) They must not have employed a hair wrangler, whose job it must be to dye ALL hair to match. Where do I go to become one of these? ;-D I think I know where you're going here!!! May I apply for the job too? I have a question about Flashman. Is it inevitable that he will sport a mustache for this job? I liked how he looked with a beard in Nostromo, but hated his mustache in COF.

55,742dollars on 22 screens isn't this about how much they made the opening weekend on only 5 screens Karen, if only they had pushed it a bit more then, that was a pretty good opening. Lidya I wholeheartedly agree about the moustache but perhaps with huge whiskers it won't be too bad!!

Picture of H.M. Queen Ranavalona I to accompany Lynda's exerpts. I am not impressed. And Lidya, yes, I think the role will require facial hair. Big mustache and fluffy puffs at the sides.

(JanaJH) Somehow it brought a mental picture of one of those disgusting cats with no fur LOL! The notion of men lining up to have their heads spray painted does me in. As I said earlier, when I first saw the commercials for this sort of thing I was amazed that anybody could be fooled into thinking this would look natural. But apparently it works for the camera! (Karen) About the film, maybe they'll use brother Jon as the younger Flashy. Now there's an idea...

Hey, Karen, is it my screen or does HRH Queen Ranava-whatever have a butt in her mouth? *blink, blink*

If he must sport a moustache I hope he will grow his own, it was obviously a fake one in SIL and it showed, especially in the scene where GP slaps his face.

I don't think we'll see the younger Flashman, just perhaps an opening shot of Rugby School and Dr Arnold. I think the adaptation will focus on the novels set in Europe (Royal Flash and Flash at the Charge) but with some of the incidents from the Afghan Campaign when he gains his "heroic" status incorporated. May be completely wrong of course! Apparently David Parfitt who was the hands-on producer (as opposed to the money-man producer) of SIL is producing "Bridget Jones Diary". So it will be high profile. Hope Colin manages a parallel Big Screen/Small Screen career (for some reason in the UK it's very compartmentalised...one or t'other) and does both Darcy and Flashman. BTW I should think that a moustache is inevitable!!(Agree, should be the real thing) Glad that MLSF is still bubbling along. Why is Colin never featured in an interview? Read some posting about MMcD being flown over by Harvey from a film set in the UK on Concorde to promote MLSF. Find Colin's absence very puzzling...and I think he is a team player who would want to support his director and producer. Maybe he is just too busy with all these multiple roles!

Yes but what was his excuse for not being on every Chat Show going post P&P, (when he wasn't as busy as he is now) I just don't think he likes giving interviews, he was very nervous in the only interview I have seen him give for A&E. and yet he was very relaxed and confident at The Berlinale Press Conference, it is a mystery. Bethan have you got your tickets for 3DOR yet?!!

(Ann) perhaps with huge whiskers it won't be too bad!! (Karen) Big mustache and fluffy puffs at the sides. NOOOOoooooooo! Mustache I can live with but no!no!no! fluffy muttonchops, if you please. Sniff, I hope the hair wranglers don't overcompensate for the loss of hair on top by adding to the hair on face. Yes, I'm shallow, vacuous and dizzy. I think perhaps I just want to see Darcy redux.

Welcome back, Moon....we have missed you. Look forward to the San Bagio pics....(even on holidays..Firthettes take their pursuits seriously:-) **** LOL at the Flashman's discussion.....I read TTOTS waitng out Hurricane Bret in S. Texas.... Has anyone read it? Chilling.... ***** Had an email from Adi who saw MLSF in Chicago "but we were practically alone in the cinema theatre"....where were you?, Karen:-)

From today's Times: To the party in Sussex thrown by Paul Lyon-Maris, the top talent at ICM, the theatrical agency, where Jane Bijrkin showed she can still rouse the sensibilities with a rendition of Je T'aime... moi non plus.Backing vocals were provided by Angus Deayton and Iain Glen, who last showed off his talents with Nicole Kidman in The Blue Room. Isn't PL-M Colin's agent?

Quite right Allison, the very one who seems to be doing something for Colin lately. A big Congratulations to CF.Com and Murph! The sites are always better and better. Murph, Karen and AnnW, we love you.

Mari found this item in Variety on Monday, August 23: NEW YORK (Variety)--Julie Andrews, Sophie Thompson and Jeanne Tripplehorn star in "Relative Values," a feature based on the 1951 Noel Coward play. Principal photography began earlier this month in the U.K. and will wrap next month. "Values" is the sophomore effort of Eric Styles, whose debut picture "Dreaming Of Joseph Lees" is slated for a late fall release by Fox Searchlight. It [RV] will have its pay cable premiere on co-producer Encore Media Group's Starz! service after it plays in theaters. ********** Don't you like how positive they are about how it *will* play in theaters? Need to see if my sister (with her digital cable and 500 channels) gets Starz! because I don't. Have VCR tape will travel. ;-D

I hope male lurkers don't freak you out (I did used to contribute at #80, and I do like all of CF's work, even though I don't fancy him). But I have to describe Flashman in male terms: A thoroughly unpleasant bully, who uses his charm and position to attain his three main goals (easy life, lots of sex, vicious fun). However, his love of putting down other arrogant people, his wordlywiseness as narrator (not protagonist), and his ill-fortune in constantly finding himself pitched into danger which terrifies him, manage to make him sympathetic - to men. I have always thought the one drawback of these brilliant historical fantasies is that they could not be shared with enjoyment by women (because of all the casual sex), but I now realise that this is just a symptom of the impossibility of a woman empathising at all with Flashman. Don't get me wrong, men don't have full empathy either, but they know where his atavistic urges come from. Personally, even I think George MacDonald Fraser goes over the top sometimes. The relish with which he does so many vile things makes it an enormous challenge to portray Flashman correctly (and Michael York failed badly in the pathetic film "Royal Flash"), but I think the Francis Urquart comparison is excellent. Again, someone who engages as narrator not hero. Flashman is not a hero (he says it again and again), he is a venal, petty, philandering coward, but his eventual luck and worse enemies make you side with him. He could only possibly appeal to female viewers if he is portrayed as stunningly attractive and charming (hence, I suppose, CF ... he said jealously). And I'm afraid his moustache and whiskers are a source of great pride!

Hi Mark...welcome back...your comments are v. welcomed here as well as on #80. Once the BJD film and new book are released hope you'll come back to #80. **** Flashman will be new to the US where the books have not been popular. Perhaps, without a comparison, the series will be .UK audiences will be more discriminating.

But I have to describe Flashman in male terms: Thank you so much for that insight, Mark. I must confess that I have never been felt able to read the Flashman books. As you say they, Flashman is very much a male fantasy figure. But with CF playing him......

Mark, I think this is such a break from Firth's traditional roles that we will relish his playing this philandering bully. Just to watch CF in action is often enough to redeem an otherwise appalling movie (we all know about which I speak). We appreciate your caution and considered opinions. Welcome!

Yes, welcome to 119 and thank you for your comments, Mark. I've just begun reading Royal Flash in which our man Flashy 'enjoys' a female conquest by page 14. (BTW, the Flashman shelf in my local library was quite picked over on Monday. My town must be teeming with Firthfans ;-)). Your comments about Flashman's appeal to men are very astute. I don't think Colin would have taken the role if it was limited to attractiveness, charm and an all-female audience. As Gi has said, he seems to be avoiding that these days. He didn't play Darcy as the hero; it's likely he'll approach Flashman in a similar manner. But it won't stop us from drooling! Fraser dedicates Royal Flash in part to "Ronald Colman, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Errol Flynn, Basil Rathbone, Louis Hayward, Tyrone Power, and all the rest of them." This is gonna be good!

....and I adore the thought of those whiskers of which he is inordinately proud. Even if this Flashman person is reprehensible, the man himself bids well to be significant "eye-candy" for this bunch of happy Droolians.

(Mike)...and Michael York failed badly in the pathetic film "Royal Flash" I just hope that Colin�s in a high quality production and that the script is super because the role really is a big challenge.....it almost sounds to me like a big risk. The character seems to be full of paradoxes and a bad script could either rub the edges off or try to make Flashman too rough. But like I said before or at least tried to, we can draw some conclusions about this production beforehand simply from the fact that Colin has been asked to do the main role. He�s an ingenious character actor and he�s capable of doing incredible things to the female hormones. Those are the reasons why he�s in it and if the film is a good one, those things are going to show.

Thanks, Mark, for giving us a *male* perspective on the popularity of the novels. I've finished the first and am into the second (Royal Flash, same as Eileen). They are fast, light reads that give you a satirical look at real people and real events. What I do like is that Flashman as the narrator makes no illusions about his own character. He is the first to admit his own failings and makes no excuses about them. This is going to be a strange character to watch Colin play. So far, he's a character you laugh at--not at all sympathetic. While he's very intelligent, he's just as Mark says, an idler, womanizer, etc.

(Karen) What I do like is that Flashman as the narrator makes no illusions about his own character And don't you (anyone who's read the books) think there will be voiceover narration? Exposing his thoughts is critical to the audience's understanding of the character--otherwise Flashy (I love that his sometime sidekick is Speedy) will come off all wrong. I keep hearing ODB's voice in my head as I read.

Is there any rule about having to like his character? As long as the breeches are tight, that Karen can write a masterful piece on whether he is dressed on the right or left, and we can all summon up puddles of the good stuff...let the cameras roll. I Need a Break from my Darcymanic tendencies.

This is amazon.com's comment on the Flashman book: Harry Flashman, is a first-person narrative which just asks to be read aloud. Complemented by a flawless narration, today's reading makes Flashman as politically incorrect as he was originally intended to be during the Victorian era--and that may cause offense. But this story of England's efforts to influence Afghanistan in the 1840's is both good history and good storytelling. **** It seems like some of our firthettes were "right on the money" on their observations.Looks like Colin has a v. challenging role in this one. But like someone said, it depends on the script. However, any nuance of "PI" and no station will touch it.

I hope that we get to see Flashman here in the U.S. I'm, afraid that it might be shown only in Europe.

Just looked up the only previous attempt to put Flashy on screen. My memory is pathetic, it wasn't Michael York, but apparently ... Malcolm McDowell! So maybe CF picked up tips while shooting MLSF. Kinda hope not.

Wow , great news to come back too!! As always the sleuthing here is "par excellence". Thank you Ladies. I was thinking back to the darker days when CF was scarce on the ground and in those lean times (Remember them?) when we would post about the fantasies of being bombarded by his work from all sides and imagine how it would feel!!! Lovely to have you back Moon and Winter.

I saw an atricle while I was away, an interview with a screenwriter on SIL (Parfitt??) who is currently working on BJD. A link re CF then. Sorry if I am repeating old news but I am sure ANN, BETHAN or ALLISON will know the snippet. (Guardian?)

BTW I have my ODB to thank for spotting a poster last week for SIL that actually only had Wessex's face on it along with GP and JF!!! I couldn't believe it. It was advertising a SIL costume exhibition currently running until 12.9.99 at Chepstow Castle!! I shall be there next week and will give drool's collective best wishes to a certain codpeice, unless of course you would prefer me to concentrate on that lovely brocade cloak--------!!!!! Full report next week.

LOL!!!! Whoops , the mere thought of Elizabethan costumes below the belt and my spelling goes all to pot!!!!

Yet another BTW. Max Beesley (Biggles) is currently a model for River Island Clothing. I ask you!! CF would not lower himself. Therefore no contest!! RIC is aimed at the much younger end of the market, ideal for the Brit lads and "ladettes" which MB would appeal to. Look out for the adverts.

Lizza, I have posted the Guardian interview with David Parfitt over on the Bridget board. :-) And do let us know all about the codpiece that was not visible to all of us. Remember, there's no detail too small for our inquiring minds.

(Mark)...Re; Malcolm Mc Dowell So maybe CF picked up tips while shooting MLSF. Kinda hope not. I hope not too...but MLSF was filmed over two years ago; doubt CF knew about the Flashman job then.I read that George Fraser lives on the Isle of Man...so I hope CF gets some insight from him on making Flashman more palatable to contemporary ideas. **** Wasn't Chepstow Castle where they filmed SIL? Look forward to the report Lizza

(Eileen) I keep hearing ODB's voice in my head as I read. What a happy thought, Eileen! You have conjured the most wonderful sounds to my head...better get my audio tapes ready for recording. The ones of the Netherfield Ball are getting thin... (Marcia)As long as the breeches are tight LOL Dear! You know how to put things in perspective!

..... the codpiece ............... Remember, there's no detail too small for our inquiring minds. Karen, can't believe what I read! :-P

%&$�#%!

tag, tag, tag

(Marcia) Is there any rule about having to like his character? Ha! ODB could play the Boston (Cambridge?) Strangler and we'd find a way to make the character loveable. Since the books are written in first person, unless Flashman were to voice his frequent self-recriminations (expressed as his thoughts in the book), the crux of the character would be lost. IMO narration would take care of this more effectively than dialogue. Regarding his breeches: "...I decided to wear my Cherrypicker rig, with all the trimmings of gold-laced blue tunic and tight pants..." [from Royal Flash] Whew! When does this start filming? I think this might be the first time fanfic is written *before* the series airs!

I just finished Flashman and the Dragon...wow. Thanks, Bethan. Chronologically, this is the last of the Flashy books, and Harry, despite his cynicism and realism, seems quite romantic (despite himself) in spots. I wasn't planning to read the series unless CF is confirmed in the role, but after Flashman and the Lady, I'm hooked. Wouldn't have thought it my cup of tea at all, but the writing is terrific, full of action, rich characterizations, vivid descriptions, excellent insights into people and events, s x (not overdone, IMO) and humour. Flashman is an intriguing character. I agree with you, Bethan, that Harry (though he calls himself one) is no coward, or he would be living off papa-in-law's wealth in England instead of being physically and mentally brutalized in the hellholes of the earth on every other page. For a self-serving poltroon, he gets into an awful lot of trouble. CF had better start working out - a lot - for this role. (Eileen) I think this might be the first time fanfic is written *before* the series airs! LOL! (Bethan) If you take the novels (and the character of Flashman) too literally, you won't appreciate them! :-) Too true. I should imagine that these books would be difficult to adapt. IMO they are not racist; Flashman skewers all of the undeserving, including himself, and doesn't fail to give credit where due regardless of race. But... the screenwriters will have to walk a very fine line between making the series palatable to the average TV viewer and not destroying the point of the books (and turning off all of Flashy's fans). BTW, here's Elspeth's (Harry's wife) description of Flashy from Flashman and the Lady: "He looked so tall and proud and handsome, like the splendid English Lion that he is, that I felt quite faint with love and pride...to think that this striking man, the envy and admiration of all, is - my husband! He is perfection..."

..... the codpiece ............... Remember, there's no detail too small for our inquiring minds. (Renate) Karen, can't believe what I read! :-P LOL!!! I almost overlooked that detail myself. Glad you caught us, Renate. Okay, looks like Flashy's gonna be great. Now who is worthy to play Elspeth?

If there is a codpiece in Falshman, I am doomed (they also got the wrong costume out of storage)...JE for Elspeth.

the codpiece...Remember, there's no detail too small for our inquiring minds. (Renate) Karen, can't believe what I read! :-P *slap slap slap* I won't even try to rationalize this one (Lynda) Harry (though he calls himself one) is no coward, or he would be living off papa-in-law's wealth in England instead of being physically and mentally brutalized in the hellholes of the earth on every other page. But in the second book, when he takes a dangerous assignment to meet up with Lola Montez in Bavaria you learn he really does it to escape being mentally brutalized by his father-in-law and the rest of the family. ;-D As I said earlier, I am hoping to see some maturation in the character, but from what I've seen in the first two books, he is a man who puts his own interests first and foremost. In the second book, he uses another man to expose Lola because he's too chicken to do it himself. (Marcia) JE for Elspeth. As Lizzie she definitely had the figure I would picture, but so far Elspeth is brainless. Maybe it's just an act. Can't tell yet.

In the second book, he uses another man to expose Lola because he's too chicken to do it himself. Or is he too much of a gentleman, and regrets having to do it? (I wonder if that is wishful thinking on my part. :-) If Elspeth (say that a few times over), is brainless then you need a very good actrees to play her, say, Natasha Richarson?

MLSF has changed theaters here in Chicago. It moved from downtown to a north suburban location. Am wondering if it's a bargain cinema, as the other films (Limbo, Winslow Boy, and AIH) are all old.

(Moon) Or is he too much of a gentleman, and regrets having to do it? Definitely not. He's explicit about his reasons for conning someone else into doing it. Whether he actually is or isn't, it's made clear that Flashman thinks of himself as a coward.

Hi, there is a very good review for MLSF in The Sacremento Bee,3 stars "Firth is too glamourous" where it opened today, so it is still surviving and getting good reviews.I think you are right Bethan, if ther are so few reels of MLSF I guess it will only have a limited release in the UK, I wonder if it will reach Brighton.

Here's the link to the Sacramento Bee review: http://www.sacbee.com/sacbeat/news/sacbeat03_19990827.html when Morris shows up with his new fiancee, the fetching Heloise (Irene Jacob), a young French woman who, at 24, is half his age. Half his age?

....at 24, is half his age. Half his age? MM is reported to be 54 (oh yeah?). All I can say is... he's not growing old v. graciously :-)

Some thoughts on Flashman... I found Mark's comments very interesting. I've always imagined that the readership for the Flashman books would be male rather than female (although this may change!) Flashman is the narrator, and has no illusions about himself or any one else for that matter. I think, as Eileen says, any adaptation will have to incorporate the "first person addressing the camera" approach (as in the Francis Urquart series or the recent Moll Flanders)to catch the underlying cynical humour. He sees himself as a coward because he is afraid of dying, but as Lynda says, a self-serving coward would just stay at home! He's certainly not a noble hero, but noble heroics can make for very boring drama! Better a rogue moving towards redemption! But he's often very perceptive in his comments on the futility of war. In "Flashman at the Charge" he visits wounded soldiers in the hospital... "Those brave, deluded pathetic bloody fools in that Russian shed with their mangled bodies and lost limbs - and yet they thought Cardigan, who'd have flogged them for a rusty spur and would see them murdered under the Russian guns because he hadn't wit and manhood enough to tell Lucan to take his order to hell -they thought he was a "good commander", and they even cheered me. Mind you, I'm harmless by comparison - I don't send them off, stuffed with lies and rubbish, to get killed and maimed for nothing except a politician's vanity or a manufacture's profit.Oh, I'll sham it with the best in public and sport my tinware and there's no room for honest pride in me, you see. But if there was, just a little bit, along with the disgust and selfishness,- I'd keep it for them, those seven hundred British sabres", A lot depends on the adaptation...it could be just a ripping yarn (lots of bodice-ripping too!), but with appropriate voice-overs there could be more layers and depth. Lynda...."Flashman and the Dragon"....I guess there's one scene we won't see on Primetime TV!! :-)

.I guess there's one scene we won't see on Primetime TV!! :-) Which one - the one with Flashy being ravished by Orchid while he's chained, helpless and flat on his back, to the bench...or the one in her Royal Apartments with him doing the ravishing...or the one in which she calls him a great greedy beast? And what about the scenes with the tall woman, Szu-Zhan. Such a terrible shame not to allow CF to use all of his acting talent. :-)

Those of you who despair at seeing a bewhiskered Colin in Flashman (and I count myself in this number), keep your fingers crossed that they decide to adapt Flashman and the Mountain of Light. In this book, Flashy is sent to the Punjab as a lawyer and diplomat (supposedly) whose real job is to spy for the British. The first order they give him is to "shave off your moustache and whiskers--do it yourself, no nappy-wallah [barber]and I'll cut your hair myself into something decently civilian- give ye a touch of pomade, pehaps." Flashy complies, though it breaks his heart: I felt so low altogether that I decided to complete my misery by shaving my whiskers--that's how reduced I was. When I'd done, and stared at my naked chops in the glass, remembering how Elspeth had adored my face-furniture and sworn they were what had first won her girlish heart, I could have wept. "Beardie-beardie," she used to murmur fondly, and that sent me into a maudlin reverie about that first splendid tumble in the bushes by the Clyde, and equally glorious romps in the Madagascar forest . . . rom which my mind naturally strayed to frenzied gallops with Queen Ranavalona, who hadn't cared for whiskers at all--leastways, she always used to try to wrench mine out by the rooots in moments of ecstasy. Well, some women don't like 'em. Luckily for Flashy, the Punjab is ruled by a woman who is said to be a nymphomaniac. Supposedly she wears out six men a night, but I haven't gotten to that part yet.

LOL, Anne!!!

And here's me going on about the underlying anti-war themes and Flashy's hidden depths (political astuteness, sensitivity, romantic love of wife etc) whilst the rest of you are being distracted by, well, other things! His whiskers are shaved off in "Royal Flash" as well when he has to impersonate a ruling prince. The downside, though, is that they also shave off his curly hair. And doesn't the Royal Concubine object to his hair-i-ness? Have to say that despite my high-minded selection of quotes, my favourite (of the moment!) is from "Flashman and the Angel of the Lord" when he encounters (in the Flashman sense) a voluptuous dusky lady from the Deep South who tells Flashy that he was "her sho' nuff honeymoon baby, of all things, an' whenevah she saw a cucumber aftuh this, she'd think o' me, and other similar endearments." Well, shopping for fruit and veg will never be the same again. Fortunately we've only got four "Flashman" books on our shelves! :-)

With all this shaving of whiskers and moustache, I guess it will have to be fake moustache and whiskers!! (unfortunately)

whenevah she saw a cucumber aftuh this, she'd think o' me Hee hee.....oh why why why there are no Flashman books in Finland, they seem to be really high class stuff ;-) Please, go on with your enjoyable quoting, ladies.

More Food: This is from Royal Flash, a favorite of Eileen's ;-D"Go away, you fat slut," says I, heaving at her. "Gehan Sie weg, dammit. Don't want you; want Lola." I might as well have to move St. Paul's; she was all over me, trying to kiss me, and succeeding, her fat face against mine. I cursed and struggled, and she giggled idiotically and began clawing at my breeches. "No, you don't," says I, seizing her wrist, but I was too tipsy to be able to defend myself properly, or else she as strong for all her blubber. She pinned me down, calling me her duckling, of all things, and her chicken, and then before I knew it she had suddenly hauled me upright and had my fine Cherrypicker pants round my knees, and was squirming her fat backside against me. "Oh, eine hammelkeule!" she squeaked. "Kolossal!"FYI, hammelkeule means leg of mutton. Wonder to which part of his anatomy she might be referring? ;-D

Also AnneR has found an article in today's Telegraph about Julie Andrews, which mentions RV and Colin. Here's the url: http://www.telegraph.co.uk:80/et?ac=000576481449931&rtmo=pQNQ4NUe&atmo=FFFFFFtX&pg=/et/99/8/28/bfjuli28.html

All this moisture on my keyboard is not from drool but from tears of laughter. I'm in stitches, ladies.

Perhaps Renate can shed some light on the "hammelkeule" reference. Dear of endearment? Idiom? ;-D

Hey which book is this....the "Kolossal cucumber"one?...Gotta get it:-D *** Good to hear from you Ann R. Tell us more about Flashy...some of us haven't gotten our books yet.

If you guys don't watch out, all your interest will peak (no connotations intended) too soon ... it probably won't be shot until next summer or be shown 'til next fall (in the UK) soonest. Savor it slowly!!! :-D

... Especially since it appears to be such a HUGE enterprise!!! ;-D

I like the statement by Julie Andrews that it was wonderful to get the chance to work with people like COLIN FIRTH and Steven Frye. It seems like almost all of the women who work with him feel the same aka GP who gushed on about him playing Wessex so briliantly. MEM who says she loves acting with him. KST who says that he is a good friend and an unselfish actor.

Can't forget Sue Birtwhistle who said that before they were even finished with the script she told the producers she wanted ODB to play Darcy. She had worked with him before and knew that no one could play Darcy like Colin. She knew what she was talking about thats for certain

More on the Kolossal cucumber:--and then I was standing there, mother-naked, while Detchard listened with his ear to the panels of the communicating door. "Lucky little Duchess Irma," murmurs Rudi, and I saw him grinning at me. "Let's hope the real prince is as royally endowed." He tipped me a mock salute, very debonair. I do hope they use this story for one of their episodes. This is where his head and whiskers are shaved to impersonate the prince. It will also be interesting watching him learn to act as the prince. The actor acting. :)

He certainly does seem like an actors' actor. It may not help his fame and fortune much, but it obviously makes him and everyone around him happy. What a peculiar choice in this day and age, and how cool.

MLSF and still another good review, I particularly like this one http://www,rochestergoesout.com/mov/m/mylife.html - so when did it open in Rochester, anybody from Rochester area - lurkers?

try again http://www.rochestergoesout.com/mov/m/mylife.html

I'm afraid I can't contribute much re "Hammelkeule" which isn't already in the quote above. But I think that mutton legs do not belong into the category of small details easily overlooked. Got my first Flashman novel (Vol.I) today, can't wait to begin--------

I saw the Julie Andrews article in the Telegraph (thanks for giving the URL, Karen). In the newspaper version it is very prominent, and there's a large pic of JA, obviously from the film, looking very elegant, sitting at a dinner table holding a glass of wine. I'm sure this will be a good looking movie. I like the description of CF's character as a "surrogate Noel Coward...witty" From Coward to Flash Harry (via Don Quixote and Shakespeare)...quite a range! JA sounds like a very gracious lady...I think t ere will be a lot of interest in RV, and it's already getting some useful pre-publicity. And talking of Flashy...yes, KJ, it could be a longish wait! ITV drama is actually (in my opinion) the most decorous of our various TV channels (sorry, ladies!)and also the best in terms of quality. I think we'll get a cross between Hornblower/Sharpe and Moll Flanders, with some expert comedy from the likes of Joanna Lumley and Felicity Kendall as Flashy's ladies. And I think Colin will look very sexy, but, no more..! :-) But there's always the books... BTW I wonder if Colin agonised over taking this role as much as he did over Darcy (Remember "I looked in the mirror and didn't see Darcy".) Or did he just look in the mirror and think Y-e-e-sss!!.

MLSF is gone from Dallas...maybe Rochester got their copy. (Rochester,NY? C'mon. Houston is the #4 city and hasn't gotten it yet. Grrrr) **** LOL at KJArt wanting us to hold back on Flashman....you know us too well for that.

(Bethan)ITV drama is actually (in my opinion) the most decorous of our various TV channels (sorry, ladies!)and also the best in terms of quality.I think we'll get a cross between Hornblower/Sharpe and Moll Flanders, There was nothing decorous about Moll Flanders. **** BTW Richard Eyre who is the CEO of ITV also directed Colin in Tumblewood, as you remember, and is the husband of Sue Birtwistle!! Way to go, Sue!

Ann: It probably opened on Friday. (BTW, it is Rochester NY, Evelyn.) The theater looks to be the local arthouse, as it is also playing The Castle, AIH, Tea with Mussolini, and My Son the Fanatic. What happened? Neither Limbo or The Red Violin are playing there. (Renate) But I think that mutton legs do not belong into the category of small details easily overlooked. Quite right, especially in pants that are described as fitting like a second skin. ;-D

LOL! In Italy we sometimes call it "La terza gamba" the third leg.

...In Italy we sometimes call it "La terza gamba" the third leg. ROTFLMAO....Molto bene, signorina...Mucho bettah than KC (Kol. Cuke) ***** .... pants that are described as fitting like a second skin. ;-D Is this what is referred to in the book as "Cherryskin Pants'?

(Evelyn) LOL at KJArt wanting us to hold back on Flashman....you know us too well for that. Did I say "Hold Back"?? You're right, I know you too well for that! Just suggesting a little moderation is all, lest you run out of analysis fodder long before the real thing is due.

Article in Sunday Times about doing the "classics" on television. Mentions both P&P and TTOTS. Here are the relevant bits: The Turn of the Screw, ITV, probably Christmas Henry James's brilliant ghost story, adapted by Nick Dear. Stars Pam Ferris, Jodhi May and Colin Firth. For all their traditional roots, classic adaptations are getting much sharper and more up to date. "In Pride and Prejudice, we put in things that weren't in the book, like the scene with Darcy swimming at the lake," says Sue Birtwistle, the producer. "We talked long and hard about it, but we felt it was reasonable to show he was a young man who had these responsibilities of running an estate and occasionally must have wanted a moment to himself. Nobody seemed to mind." When it's really convincing, nobody does. (More relationships better understood) "Reunites Davies, a former Eng Lit lecturer, with his former pupil and producer on Pride and Prejudice, Sue Birtwistle." (This is from the snippet about "Wives and Daughters.")

Has everyone voted in the MLSF poll in the Rochester, NY paper that AnnW. found? Go to: http://www.rochestergoesout.com/mov/m/mylife.html **** ...TTOTS..Henry James's brilliant ghost story, adapted by Nick Dear. I like to see the term adapted ...I just finished the book and I hope the Uncle's (Master...CF) part is enhanced.

So far there have been 14 votes, so... go for it, ladies!

just finished the book and I hope the Uncle's (Master...CF) part is enhanced. Must be surely! TOTS seems to lend itself to widely differing interpretations and adaptations ( apparently there's another film version starrring Lauren Bacall and Harvey Keitel, in which the governess goes mad, coming out soon) In the Deborah Kerr version. the Master was played by Sir Michael Redgrave, head of the Redgrave clan. If TOTS is being aired over Christmas, I think it will have to have a reasonably upbeat ending, maybe with a touch of romance (well, here's hoping!). I'm hoping that the Master is more involved in the story-line! At least with Flashman, there's no doubt...he's on every page!! Any news of FP in the States? Is it finally opening there (LA/NY?) or is it straight to video? Ann, any news of MLSF in the UK? I read that "The Theory of Flight" with Kenneth Branagh and Helena B-C, which got dismal reviews in the US, is opening nationwide, as is "The Winslow Boy". AIH and "The Honest Courtesan (Rufus Sewell)also got 200 screen openings, as did "The James Gang" (John Hannah), Miramax's last all-Brit release. If MLSF is London-only, I shall be ABSOLUTELY furious! But I've no high hopes. :-(( Have to say I'm glad Colin is doing TV and theatre....his leading man career seems to be ji xed! If you'd told me 2 years ago that we'd still be waiting to see MLSF and that SLOW would be the only Arts Council funded film not to reach the screen, I'd not have believed it! Life is strange! :-)

MLSF, No no news Bethan, but how about we both telephone this week, I was told to telephone again about now and if it is to be released in October as it said in the recent DP interview, they must have an exact date by now!!

(Bethan) And here's me going on about the underlying anti-war themes and Flashy's hidden depths (political astuteness, sensitivity, romantic love of wife etc) whilst the rest of you are being distracted by, well, other things! I guess they don't call this 'drool' for nuthin'! Thanks for taking the high road, Bethan. There's no way ODB would take this part if it only featured the "bedroom dimension" of his acting talent, not to mention the size of his....pants? You're right, KJ, it will be a long wait for the kolossal Flashman. But there's nothing like a jump start to get us going! For now I'd like to see more confirmation that Colin's actually doing this series. Is that do-able, Ann, Bethan, Allison? (Bethan) :-(( Have to say I'm glad Colin is doing TV and theatre....his leading man career seems to be jinxed! Patience, my dear...patience!

Must have been press day on the Isle of Man. This from the NY Daily News, but no mention of Colin or other cast: Julie Andrews Speaks The star, whose vocal cords were damaged in 1997 by a bacterial infection, isn't ready to sing, but has mended enough to play a proper English mother in "Relative Values," a $10 million comedy that just started shooting on the Isle of Man off the coast of Northern Ireland. "She can talk," said Gene Schwam, who represents Andrews and her husband, director Blake Edwards. "She just can't sing." Edwards is in Los Angeles trying to nail down financing for his new comedy, "It Never Rains," starring Chevy Chase. The two won't see each other until the end of September when Andrews returns to L.A. Schwam said Andrews and Edwards recently put their Manhattan townhouse up for sale. "They still have a condo in L.A., and a house in Sag Harbor," he said. "And they still may buy something else in New York." ************ BTW, I retract my predictions about Mickey Blues Eyes. It is amazingly bad. Trailer was 100x funnier. Also, I am beginning to dislike Jeanne Tripplehorn tremendously. Will be difficult watching her in RV, especially as I expect another larger-than-life parody character, as she's been doing in MBE and Sliding Doors. ************* Flashman Update: I recommend "Royal Flash" more so than the first book. This book is full of swash and buckling (as would indicate from the dedication that Eileen mentioned). I do hope they use this story for one for one of the episodes, even though we would have a bald Colin throughout. However, Harry swordfights and is in the thick of many a fight. Yes, he cowers inwardly, but rises to the occasion. He does a number of despicable things, but hey that's his character. ;-D ************** Television Notice: Valmont will be shown on Thursday, Sept.2, on Showtime at 8:00 pm Eastern Time. If anyone doesn't own the tape, this would be a good place to record it from, as there won't be any commercials and it should be unedited.

Now this takes the cake, from Variety: Fox's new drama "Manchester Prep" has added Ted Shackelford to the cast. The ColTriStar show is exec produced by Neal Moritz and is based on the feature "Cruel Intentions." Shackelford, best known for his role on the long-running series "Knots Landing" has also done episodes of "The Outer Limits" and "Cybill" and appeared in Showtime's "Dead Man's Gun." LOL!! Gary Ewing in a TV series based on Dangerous Liaisons/Valmont.

The LA Times has an article about Julie Andrews and Relative Values. It is basically the same as appeared in the Saturday Telegraph. Same writer (David Gritten), but edited to read slightly differently. http://www.calendarlive.com/HOME/CALENDARLIVE/CALENDAR/t000077220.html For example: (British) "She has certainly had more than her share of adversity." (American) "It certainly has been a hard couple of years for Andrews..." I guess we don't know what *adversity* means! ;-D

A friend came across this in an Australian magazine and I thought it might interest you, eve though there is no mention of Colin. "It�s a case of revenge for big-bummed girls. Skinny GWYNETH PALTROW has long dreamed of playing the lead role in the film adaptation of the hit book �Bridget Jones� Diary�, but it seems she�ll be knocked back because of a lack of certain physical attributes. "We need an actress with a bum and breasts, so Gwyneth would have to be prepared to put on a couple of stone," a production source says. The likely person for the role is HELENA BONHAM CARTER. Okay, so she�s not completely chunky, but you can�t e pect miracles in Hollywood." I thought this would have been an English production or do you think the reference to Hollywood is tongue in cheek? As a big-bummed girl myself, I definitely wouldn't call Helena chunky. The last time I saw her a wondered about her eating habits :-)

For now I'd like to see more confirmation that Colin's actually doing this series. Is that do-able, Ann, Bethan, Allison? I saw the news item so ably spotted by Ann in the TV Times. Very prominent and a nice pic of Colin (We have a scanner but I'm IT illiterate) I'd take it as a fact, especially as they're already discussing the casting of the other roles. And he couldn't turn this down. It will probably mean four 2-hour productions of quality, big budget drama ...probably ITV's tour de force for the year. Flashman Update: I recommend "Royal Flash" more so than the first book. This book is full of swash and buckling (Karen) Agreed...and IMO the books get better and better, in terms of story-telling, style and historical/political background. And Flashy definitely does mature! We were in our local Waterstones today, so I picked up another Flashman..."Flash for Freedom". The cover has Flashy, standing legs akimbo (a most provocative stance!)clad in breeches and boots and open necked white shirt, flourishing a whip! Pity I can't scan! BTW I agree that "Royal Flash" is a prime contender for an adaptation, but we won't see him b ld...maybe just a very short cut! And no moustache or whiskers. Win some, lose some. Ann, yes, phoning Miramax about release dates makes sense, although sometimes I prefer to live in (false)hope! If I get some callow youth wittering on about everything depending on Box Office returns in the US (all those 18 prints!), I'll not be best pleased! :-). Glad to hear that Miramax had a mega flop in Mrs Tingle. Seems to be backing the wrong horse time. Karen, my 15 year old son (quite discriminating) saw "Mickey Blue Eyes" and thought it was rubbish (although it had reasonalble reviews over here). As I've said many times I despair of Cinema in the UK...we don't even get the opportunity to see decent "small" movies anymore and the multiplexes are filled with teenagers. Thanks for the article Cathey. I saw Helena B-C's name in connection with BJD about a year ago, but not recently. Don't think she's right for the part. From Karen's posting on #80, I wonder if they will start shooting in October as they still seem to be working on the script. But they can't delay for ever. And I still want to see CF as MD (although am slightly distracted by the prospect of Flash Harry!)

Here's one version of the cover, but not the one you described. Will check around to see if that one already exists out there. I'd like to see it too! ;-D Very provocative stance. And did I say in "Royal Flash" he gets wet. Really wet! More than once!!

Helena B-C should be Shazz. Why do they see it? Thanks for all the news-bits, ladies. I will have to search out Royal Flash.

Firth comes first, to be sure. But I've loved the "Sharpe" series, so I'm agog that CF will be turning up in something of the same ilk. Please, please, let it not come to be just another bit of CF "pie-in-the sky" rumor. I'm a tad elderly -- I can't take too much more deisappointment!!

(Moon)Helena B-C should be Shazz. I agree... no way will can she pull off playing Bridge herself, but Shazz is a good consolation prize. BTW Moon, welcome back! Hope you had a refreshing, fun and enjoyable trip!

Welcome Peejay! Don't fret. We've had confirmation that there will be a Flashman series, although nothing specific on casting, etc. Now, that you're out of lurkdom, join in. ;-D

BBC News has picked up the LA Times article. Andrews voices singing hopes Actress and singer Julie Andrews has said that she hopes to sing again, despite the surgery that robbed her of her famous voice two years ago. The 64 year-old British-born star of classic musicals The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins has been unable to sing since undergoing throat surgery in 1997. But Andrews, who is currently making a film version of Noel Coward's 1951 play Relative Values, has told the Los Angeles Times that she has not given up the struggle to regain her voice. "It's been a tough two years. I can't pretend it's been easy. But I'm a very optimistic lady. I think I will sing again. I hope to," she said. Born in Surrey, Julie Andrews shot to international stardom with 1964's hugely successful family musical Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music in 1965. She was also in the original Broadway versions of Camelot and My Fair Lady and she won a Tony Award nomination for the stage version of Victor/Victoria. But in 1997, after missing more than 30 performances of the show, she quit for good to have surgery on non-cancerous nodules in her throat. In the summer of 1998 she made a tentative step back to singing when she recorded the vocal part of Polynesia The Parrot for the London stage show Doctor Dolittle. But despite not having taken on any further singing projects, Andrews is determined not to let the grass grow under her feet. In Relative Values, she plays the part of the widowed English countess Felicity. She stars alongside Colin Firth, Jeanne Tripplehorn, William Baldwin and Sophie Thompson. After filming finishes in the spring she plans to go on to several other projects, including collaborating on a book with her daughter Emma and starting work on her autobiography. ********** This is the photo that accompanied the article. I'd say it was from the 1960s. ;-D

Another snippet from the TVTimes. Pam Ferris heads a cast including Colin Firth and Jodhi May for an ITV adaptation of the Henry James ghost story The Turn of The Screw, which is currently filming in London and Berkshire. No pics.

Welcome Peejay...do join in the the daily drool. Thanks Aishling....the guy must be commuting between Berkshire and the Isle of Man!

the guy must be commuting between Berkshire and the Isle of Man! Doubt it. From what you've said, Evelyn, his role in TTOTS is definitely small, probably of a cameo variety. We'll probably see his name at the end of the credits: "and Colin Firth" indicating a star-like cameo appearance. If anything, his part would take two days on the set. :(

Re. the cover for "Flash for Freedom"......No, it's not the one, Karen! When I say "provocative", I mean "provocative"! There seem to be several reprints of the Flashmans. The original copies that we already had on our shelves had covers like the one you scanned. Then there's a mid-nineties version, with a more cartoon-like Flashy on the covers, usually with naked women in the background. And now there's a 1999 reprint, much more attractive, with covers in a sort of parchment colour and illustrations of F ashy looking very gallant, in different costumes. I particularly like the cover for "Flashman in the Great Game". If you're ordering, ask for the latest reprint. From what you've said, Evelyn, his role in TTOTS is definitely small, probably of a cameo variety Not necessarily. It is an adaptation, and the Master could feature more strongly. If Pam Ferris has the lead role (ie not Jodhi May who plays the second governess) then it may be told through the Housekeeper's eyes and chronologically, ie back to the days of the arrival of the children and the first governess and Quint, when the Master did spend more time at the House. Otherwise, to be honest, I don't see how they can fill 2 hours! BTW, Nick Dear who did the adaptation (and "Persuasion") seems to be a serious "literary" writer. I noticed that he's credited with the adaptation of a Maxim Gorky play, being performed by the National Theatre ensemble,(which includes JE)

...Nick Dear who did the adaptation (and "Persuasion") seems to be a serious "literary"writer. I noticed that he's credited with the adaptation of a Maxim Gorky play, being performed by the National Theatre ensemble,(which includes JE) In this instance he even changed the title....it was originally known as "Summer People". So there is great hope that he will take the "literary liberty" of enhancing the uncle's (CF)part.TTOTS was supposed to take place in Essex...so he has already changed it to Berkshire.But I'm all for CF having a leading role in this despite possible major surgery to the original. I really don't want to discuss the implications of changing the roles ...because it is a mystery and we will be spoiling it Big Ti e. But I can see that it will be a spirited discussion...lots of ambiguities. (You think the "loft scene" in MLSF was ambiguous...this whole plot is..)

Call me dumb, but I really don't understand TOTS. One earlier film version (there have been a surprising number of adaptations) had the new governess mentally unhinged by sexual frustration (desire for the Master?...she certainly seems smitten!) Now that's my kind of plot...much better than wee ghosties and things that go bump in the night! Forgot to welcome you back, Moon! My elder son is currently youth hostelling in Italy and loving every minute of it. We're hoping to visit Florence later this year.

Thank you Bethan and Winter! Bethan, remember to tell your son if he goes to Lake Como there is a great one in Menaggio. You will like Florence in the wintertime it is quite tolerable, not too many tourists.

(Bethan)Call me dumb, but I really don't understand TOTS. Oh...I think Henry James did this on purpose...as in his other stories. Makes it more intriguing. There are many literary analyses of this particular book. And, interestingly, each case can substantiate their opinion. I think it's terrific esp if Mr. Dear amplifies the Master's part:-)

Welcome, peejay. I can't tell you how glad I am to see you here!! Linger and return at regular intervals, do. And by all means, put in your 2 - cents' - worth as often as you are moved to do so.!!

September 1st is upon us, time to start seriously planning Colin's Birthday Party to be held on topic 110 on September 10th. BTW, it is also the first year anniversary of CF.Com. Three cheers for the 3Deers! All the planning should take place on topic 72. See you there!

Encore is also celebrating ODB's birthday by airing Another Country (they must want to get the party going early since it's on at 7:45 a.m.--not exactly prime time). (Evelyn) But I can see that it will be a spirited discussion...lots of ambiguities. Speculate? Us? ;-P This will give us something to talk about besides Flashman, which, as KJArt pointed out, won't be before our eyes for some time. Even if the Master turns out to be a relatively small role, don't forget about the veritable feast of Firth available for our viewing pleasure later this year and next. Colin must be hot, hot, hot right now--he's been working nearly non-stop all year and has been involved with Blackadder, Londinium, RV and now TTOTS since June! Whew! I wonder if this was all in the works when he took his 'sabbatical' in Italy last year (searching the hills of Umbria for antiques...and Moon ;-)), or if SiL and 3DOR open d things up. Regardless, I'm thrilled he's working and has projects lined up into next year. ...and welcome, peejay!

I think it also has to do with the fact that Colin�s agent has become aware of the many firthettes out there. They have been made aware of CF.com and other sites and know of our resourcefulness in finding out what projects Colin is involved in even before there is any official press release. His agent finally woke up. Welcome peejay! (Eilleen), searching the hills of Umbria for antiques...and Moon ;-)), I wish! I don't know if I can talk DH into returning to Umbria every summer. He prefers the Dolomites. But my courage always rises, and I shall prevail. ;-)

BTW, Flashman might be one of his early hero's. In Italy the have Sagor and my DH has the complete collection. Imagine being able to become your childhood hero in the flesh.

(Moon) BTW, Flashman might be one of his early heroes. Shame it wasn't Superman. Am picturing the costume.... But, if the cherrypicker pants fit like a second skin, would be the same... ;-D

(Evelyn) But I can see that it will be a spirited discussion...lots of ambiguities. TOTS...It's all ambiguous...every single word of it! Don't read on if you prefer to make up tour own mind about TOTS or haven't read it ... I think the "Sexual hysteria" theory makes a lot of sense. I originally saw the governess as the heroine (rather stupid though) and the Uncle as uncaring. But on reflection I think the text bears out the theory that she suffers from sexual repression, infatuation (with the Master and the boy) and madness/evil. The children are always asking when their Uncle is coming, they write to him (but she keeps the letters), the Housekeeper is always suggesting they send for him...and before appointing the governess he was in the habit of coming to see them. The governess seems to deliberately set out to "acquire" the children, whilst fantasising about the Master. Af first I thought this was just another ghost story, but I'm now very interested to see how Nick Dear interprets this. But I think The Master has a crucial role to play (and hopefully more screen time), and I wonder how they'll handle the ending. Lots of scope for discussion, anyway. And TOTS has been discussed for seceral decades already...it even has its own Listserv discussion group!

TOTS..(Bethan)... think the "Sexual hysteria" theory makes a lot of sense. I don't entirely agree with your premise....but I don't want to give my impression till more people have read the book (maybe a new topic?).Anyway,spineless chameleon that I am,... I'm famous for changing my opinions once we start discussing the production.

Welcome Peejay

I just had a marvelous experience... I was watching a tape I made in absentia, a documentary on Jorge Luis Borges the Argentinian writer, and guess whose voice read the excerpts of his writings? Not credited, but I'd recognize ODB anywhere!

(Gi)....a documentary on Jorge Luis Borges the Argentinian writer, and guess whose voice read the excerpts of his writings? How exciting, Gi. I assume in English. He did a documentary called Bizzely's Mozart....about a dance company. I have it.... But it would put anyone to sleep....No inflections...just a monotone. He would do better , I think , with a literary piece. Is it poetry? (How I miss Ellen Armstrong's FAQ....she would have had all the details.)

Mmmmmm....what a lovely surprise that was, Gi!

What, Colin being boring, Evelyn?!

...What, Colin being boring, Evelyn?! Weeell, I didn't say boring...zzzzzzzzzzzzz Maybe, it was the "content" :-D You wouldn't need a sleeping pill :-)

Re: Bintley's Mozart Colin's narration is so minor. The first 30 minutes or so is about the choreographer and that's where Colin's narration occurs, between the interviewing. Then the last part is a performance of the ballet and there's no more Colin. I did have it on tape, but have subsequently taped over it. I do like to listen to my audiotape of "One Before the Last." That's anything but boring. All that heavy breathing!! ;-o

(Karen)The first 30 minutes or so is about the choreographer and that's where Colin's narration occurs, between the interviewing. Then the last part is a performance of the ballet and there's no more Colin. Maybe that's when you fell asleep :-D ... I do like to listen to my audiotape of "One Before the Last." That's anything but boring. All that heavy breathing!!. Now, ya' talkin'. But don't listen while driving....you'll go off the road:-)

And, Gi, what a shock that must have been to hear Colin's voice. Can't believe it was uncredited. How did it sound?

STOP THE PRESS....BIG NEWS!! Murph has a Big Treat for you tonight..... http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/news2.html (If you refer to this news on any other website pl. give Murph's page credit)

Murph had a surprise visitor to her website: a member of the crew from Turn of the Screw. Thanks Murph for sharing! *********** From Clive Derbyshire: "I just worked with Colin on "Turn of The Screw", so I thought I'd give you some info. "Turn of The Screw" is adapted from the novel of the same name by American author Henry James and is set in England in 1850. In the film we made most of the action takes place in the English countryside, at a big house called Bly, but there are a few scenes right at the beginning set in London and Colin is in just one of them - his only appearance in the film, though it's quite a long scene and Colin's character, The Master, is very important. We shot the scene on Saturday 31st July 1999 in Syon House, the London home of the Duke of Norfolk, I believe. It took us all day from 8 am to 7 pm. The only other actor in the scene was 24-year-old Jodie May, who plays "Miss", the lead role in the film. Everything went well: Colin is very very easy to work with, very professional and great fun too. We have a couple of friends in common so we spent quite a bit of time chatting, on and off set (I had lunch with him on our dining bus). The Production Company was Meridian TV, Director was Ben Bolt and the Sound Recordist was me, Clive Derbyshire. Right now, with filming completed on 22nd August, "Turn of The Screw" is being edited."

Thanks for sharing Murph! And you for posting Karen. It's great to see that so many in the business are aware of Murph's site as well as CF.com. They are done with care and love and you are appreciated. I wonder if Clive mentioned to Colin that he would be sending this info to us. I tend to think so. Keep up the good work!

Thanks to Clive, Murph, Karen and Evelyn (how alike great minds are--you were posting simultaneously!) for this juicy info about TOTS and Colin. and Colin is in just one of them - his only appearance in the film, though it's quite a long scene and Colin's character, The Master, is very important. Alas, Bethan, it looks as though the part of the Master won't be enlarged in this adaptation :-( Colin is very very easy to work with, very professional and great fun too Those words I love to hear...

....The Master, is very important. Alas, Bethan, it looks as though the part of the Master won't be enlarged in this adaptation :-( Actually, I'm impressed that Mr. Dear is being faithful to the original..and not getting relevant and make a romantic tale out of this...which it is not. It's hard to improve on Henry James! And indeed the Master is v. important to the plot...even though his actual screen time is small.IMO if Mr. Dear had enlarged the role, the character would not have been as important to the story.. (Confusing?...Read the book...only 120 pages.) Anyway, Karen has a good take on this role as being quite prestigious for Colin...I'll let her explain it.

sorry....got carried away:-)

I watched and ENJOYED Valmont on Showtime last night. This is the first movie I ever saw Colin in. Sremember in the beginning when he comes into the box with Annette Benning and Cecil I thought Wow, what a gorgeous smile this guy has." I still think that every time I see him.

I was watching a tape I made in absentia, a documentary on Jorge Luis Borges the Argentinian writer, and guess whose voice read the excerpts of his writings? Not credited, but I'd recognize ODB anywhere! Gi, this is an interesting find! Please, may we know the FULL AND PRECISE details? The title of the program, the maker/producer, TV/film company, year, where did it air as you recorded it? Anything else you know about it? Would you be able to make copies for those of us who want their Firth archives as complete as possible? (Audio copy only would be acceptable in this instance.)

I cannot tell you all the details right now because I'm out of Lisbon for the weekend, but will do so when I get back. I can, I think, borrow a VCR and make a few PAL copies to send...Indeed I shall be happy to do so. Audio? I never tried to make audio tapes from videos, but I guess I can make them too? I believe the program is Argentinian originally, because of the credited names, but this was an English voice-over version. Colin reads prose, but Borges's prose is beautiful and poetic (in any language).

..The Master, is very important. Alas, Bethan, it looks as though the part of the Master won't be enlarged in this adaptation :-( Actually, I'm impressed that Mr. Dear is being faithful to the original..and not getting relevant and make a romantic tale out of this...which it is not. Well, I'm ever the optimist (now, if I'd been the adapter, The Master would have been in every other scene!). But, seriously, I'm not surprised, and I actually agree with you Evelyn about the need for a faithful adaptation. From the date of the shooting (31 July), it looks as though Colin squeezed this in at the very end of Londinium, and the day before RV started. Nice to read Clive's remarks about TOTS.

I meant to add....Syon House, where Colin's scene (a long one, I hope!)was filmed, is in the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew (reachable by Tube) and was built by Robert Adam and must have a fine interior. It is, I believe, open to the public. I'm taking TOTS as an extra and unexpected bonus! BTW has anyone noticed how in classic liteature the main character is almost always female...very few leading males (even fewer heroic), unless you venture into Conrad. Flashy may not be "classic" but he's one of the few male leads around! (and Mark Darcy, I suppose!... BTW when will they release casting info on thisone, they must know by now, and normally production companies are only too happy to publicise casting well ahead of the event!) Moon, my son is back from Italy. He absolutely loved Venice and Verona and Lake Garda, liked Florence and Rome (but wouldn't like to live in Rome...murderous traffic) but hated Milan. Overall though, he can't wait to go back!

has anyone noticed how in classic liteature the main character is almost always female...very few leading males (even fewer heroic), unless you venture into Conrad Interesting... Almost always? But first you would have to define your notion of "classic literature". Your observation might be substantiated to a degree by the proliferation of women writers in certain periods and genres, but in the general history of world literature male heroes are abundant.

Have started Flashman's Lady, but got bogged down with the cricket game. Argh! What is that game all about? Doesn't seem possible that a team could score 90+ whatevers in one inning.

I was at Kew Garden's a few days before! He might have been rehearsing then. Glad to hear your son had a great time Bethan. I can undrstand why he wouldn't like Milan. It is the business heart of Italy. (Once you get to know it well, it is very exciting though). (Gi), Colin reads prose, but Borges's prose is beautiful and poetic (in any language). I agree! I would like to have a PAL copy. Let me know. :-D

(Bethan) I'm taking TOTS as an extra and unexpected bonus! Quite right. Now if this were the only role he had taken this year, I'd be quite vocally disappointed. Considering this is his 7th(?) project in 1999, how can I complain?

(Evelyn) Anyway, Karen has a good take on this role as being quite prestigious for Colin...I'll let her explain it. Let's hear it,Karen,please. Don't keep us in suspense. Cricket is one game I cannot figure out at all, and I have tried in the past. I think you have to go to a game with an expert and have it explained while you are watching. I can't even tell the teams apart as everybody seems to dress alike. All I got out of Flashman's Lady is that Flashman was a much better bowler (pitcher?) than batter and that with skill, luck and cleverness, he got 3 excellent players out in a row, apparently a difficult, therefore memorable, feat. I am presently reading Flashman and the Redskins when Flashy is now 53, with a little grey in his whiskers but no belly. His feelings toward his wife after 35 years of marriage are most endearing and unexpected; Flashman is definitely a complex character. Loved the first part, especially when he is rescued by and then married to an Apache princess. Quite a different wedding night than in Royal Flash. These books are somewhat addicting; I wish Fraser had written more.

(Lynda) I wish Fraser had written more. I read at a Flashman site that "Flashman and the Tiger" is to be released in the UK in November. Re: prestigious I only meant that his limited cameo appearance in TOTS will be billed/credited as that for a big star most likely. You know how, when the opening credits run, it is based on who is the lead, etc.? Colin will likely have that last single- name-on-the-screen credit, prefaced by "and Colin Firth" which is reserved for big name stars in limited roles. While not quite the same, Jason Robards had that type of opening credit in ATA because based on the size of the role he would have placed third which would ot befit someone of his stature. Likewise Colin in TOTS, he would be way down. This way it shows his appearance is of a "star turn."

It was like that for Judi Dench in SIL, and she still pulled off the Oscar. ;-)

Thank you Karen for explaining the billing ...now let's hope they do it!...now will someone pleeeze read that book and not leave Bethan and me hangin' out there? (Bethan) Syon House, where Colin's scene (a long one, I hope!)was filmed, is in the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew (reachable by Tube) and was built by Robert Adam and must have a fine interior. It is, I believe, open to the public. Thank you, Bethan.We hope to make a trek out there when we go in January.Wish it wasn't so far out. (And why not?...look at the gang that trekked out to Arsenal in March....in the rain!:-) Not me..(she said virtuously!)

FYI, MLSF is now playing at two suburban theaters in the Chicago area. Try using this place to find MLSF and if it is playing anywhere near you. All you do is (1) do a search for the movie and then (2) enter your zip code. BTW, I entered Evelyn's, Heide's and Moon's zips, but got nothing. Evelyn, if you try a zip in OK City, maybe something will turn up. http://www.moviefinder.com

Cricket is a wonderful game, I don't understand the problem. the only thing that where once we used to lead the world in cricket something seems to have gone horribly wrong, bring back Botham I say. (ladies in the US will have not idea who Botham is but he was one of our greatest all-rounders, could bat bowl and field brilliantly, could probably score a 100 runs on his own!!

Ann, we're just not familiar with the terminology and what goes on other than some guy throws the ball (bowler) and another guy hits it (batter). Having grown up on baseball, I can't fathom how anyone could score 100 runs in a single game. Perhaps, I should go look for a website that explains the game or a book. Missed the opportunity to have it explained to me. The asst. location mgr on the film here was British and a real cricket fan. That was the one who kept paying me for damage to my property! ; D

for batter read batsman, sorry to be nit-picky. I am the same with baseball, saw it once in San Diego and hadn't a clue, what is a home-run!?

Hohoho, am finally gonna have those incomprehensible two games explained to me... While you're at it, explain American football as well, will you? ;-)

But first you would have to define your notion of "classic literature". Your observation might be substantiated to a degree by the proliferation of women writers in certain periods and genres, but in the general history of world literature male heroes are abundant. (Arami) Ooo...er..now I'll have to think! I was referring mainly to 19th century lit, and was thinking more specifically of the novels recently given/being given costume drama adaptations. For example Mrs Gaskell's "Wives and Daughters" (Andrew Davies/Sue Birtwistle colloboration)...feisty females, wimpish males. But in the general history of world lit, you're quite right. I am presently reading Flashman and the Redskins when Flashy is now 53, with a little grey in his whiskers but no belly. His feelings toward his wife after 35 years of marriage are most endearing and unexpected; Flashman is definitely a complex character. Loved the first part, especially when he is rescued by and then married to an Apache princess. (Lynda) I've just finished "Flashman and the Great Game" (about the Indian Mutiny) and found it quite, as they say, un-put-downable. It's the one in which Flashy (most deservedly) wins his Victoria Cross and Knighthood. And I agree about Flashy and his wife...he does love her, and she loves him..and I like the way this is a consistent (and unexpected) theme. He's really quite sloppy and sentimental! He also has a healthy libido and is away from home for years on end... Cricket...well, baseball it ain't. Maybe we should start a new thread! BTW if Flashy gets a hat-trick (three wickets in a row) then he's pretty good!

hat-trick Yes, Flashy does get a hat-trick when he plays at Lord's with Tom Brown. Fraser provides the funniest *historical* rationale for how that term came to be coined. One of the opposition batsmen who he struck out (?) takes off his boater and presents it with a bow, saying "That trick's worth a new hat any day, youngster." Actually, the "trick" Flashy used was to protest the call on ball, knowing full well that the umpire was a fellow Rugbyite and their code of ethics wouldn't allow that someone would appeal a call without there being good reason for it. Flashy did it, knowing that the ump would reverse his call and the batter would then be out. I think I explained a situation about which I know nothing. 8:-D

Oh yes - baseball is incredibly easy: one, two, three strikes you're out. four balls and you take a walk to first base. A home run is when a ball is hit way out (usually into the stands in fair territory or outside the stadium) and the runner can run around all the bases to home. Football - a team gets four chances to advance 10 yards. If it keeps going, it will eventually get into the end zone. If not, the other team gets to try the same going in the other direction. Simple, is it not?

Well done Karen! BTW Murph has some intersting news about TOTs at her website...apparently Colin's one scene is about 10 minutes long. I call that a pretty decent cameo! And he should have some reasonable dialogue.

If you want and explanation of baseball and football get George Carlin"tape explaining the differences between the two games. Will we be seeing any of these many Colin TV shows and movies in the U.S. It bugs me to read about all these things he is doing and then face the possibility that I may never have the opportunity to see them. Is there any way we can find out if A& E or Masterpiece Theater will be showing Flashy or DQ or any of the above mentioned as TTOTS.

I used to play cricket years ago. My favourite game, I spend hours in the summer watching it. The pitch is between two wickets - 22yds long. The aim to bowl out the batsmen any way possible by hitting the wicket, by lege before wicket or by a catch. The batsman's aim is to score as many runs as possible. A ball running to the boundary is a four, a ball going high over the boundary is a six. All the other runs are scored by two batsman running between the wickets and score as many runs as possible wi hout being run out by the ball being thrown at the wicket. In a test match they play for five days, two innings each. The other is a one day match with 50 overs bowled - they hopefully the bowlers that is try to bowl maidens!!!!! I will carry on if any one is interested. Average scores can go from 400 to 100 or until all batsmen are out or at least 10 of them. Anne H

This would be more informative if you would translate wickets, overs, innings, ecc...:-)Thank you, AnneH, Karen :-) I don't want to bore everyone else with my questions, especially because I don't see any of those games often and will probably have forgotten the details when I do...But, Karen, what happens if they run 20 yards? Do they *all* have to move or can just one grab the ball and run? Can they not pass the ball and keep going, like in european football?

Thanks, Anne! That's the best intro to cricket I've heard for 25 years! My hubby once tried to explain it to me, and all I can remember is that "when they're in the're out, and when they're out they're in..." 8888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 Sorry all for slipping a personal note, but it can't be avoided... :-) RENATE - Your email is not working, it returned my message twice today.

Botham is but he was one of our greatest all-rounders, could bat bowl and field brilliantly, could probably score a 100 runs on his own!! And like Flashman he could bowl a maiden over (cricket joke for UK and Aussie droolers):-) Best thing about cricket are the names given to places on the field: silly mid on, short square leg, fine leg, etc, etc. It's a life time study!

If no one minds, I've copied over the baseball, football and cricket comments to Topic 72. These Colin topics fill up so quickly. ;-D My football answers will be there, Gi. And please continue Anne. I'm still having a hard time visualizing what is going on.

Oi! Thanks, Alarmarami, for alerting me re mailbox. When my mailbox was so quiet I wondered already if everybody went out for a 24hour cricket match. Now I wonder what happened to my sent messages. Karen, did you get my mail last night re #110, and the link from http://www.firth.com ? Please use this as emergency mail: threedeers@yahoo.com , thanks. Kjart, here's the reply to your question, how to "succeed badly". My mailbox did. :-P

Since Renate will be linking topic 110 to www.firth.com on Sept. 10th for his birthday party celebrations, I thought we might as well do all our preparations for Firthday at 110. The preparations will not show up since the linking will be set up for Sept. 10th only. Is it agreeable to everyone? BTW, thank you Renate!

Since Renate will be linking topic 110 to www.firth.com on Sept. 10th for his birthday party celebrations, It is already linked! Did I get your intentions wrong, Karen? Let me know - here or on #72 - if you want me to un-link it again. My email is still kaputt.

Renate, you did a fabulous job! You also made it so easy to log on and that even Colin will be tempted to do it! Brava! Let's go on with the original plan of preparing for Firthday on topic 72 and having the party at 110 on Sept. 10th. :-D

Moon, thanks a lot for the flowers, but actually I didn't do much. Glad you like it, anyway. :-)

Renate, the link is fine from firth.com. Non-droolers will be steered to the beginning of the celebration, but the rest of us will come in the usual way. As far as I'm concerned, if the party room is opened early then people can drop off their presents all week. If others would prefer to hold off, that's OK by me.

Moon, thanks a lot for the flowers, but actually I didn't do much. Glad you like it, anyway. :-)

How many times do I have to remind everybody: do not go off-line and then on again when the last post showing on any of these boards is your own: it will post itself again. One of those Yapp shortcomings.

Article about David Morrissey in the Telegraph. Check out the 3DOR and Colin mention btw, I think the writer went a little too overboard in his praise of DM, sheesh!! Master of the roles The face is familiar if not the name, but actor David Morrissey always makes an impact. He talks to Jasper Rees DAVID MORRISSEY is one of those actors who are too good for their own good. However well he performs, however many millions see those performances, he fails to worm his way into the public consciousness. Could you put a face to the name? Or a name to the big, podgy face with its petite, delicate features? He leaves no footprint of one role in the next. He plays the common man uncommonly well, and no one is better at allowing a character's inner troubles to ripple across his face. But there is nothing to connect his Bradley Headstone in Our Mutual Friend to his sunny Kiffer in Hilary and Jackie or his tortured tax inspector in Holding On. Like Ian Hart and Cathy Tyson, he is a graduate of the Liverpool Everyman's youth theatre, but unlike them he seldom plays Scousers. The ability to disappear into a role is, to Morrissey, what acting should be - "You watch the character," he says; "you don't watch me performing." And yet so complete is this sense of never knowing what you're going to get with Morrissey that it may have hampered him. "There is a danger there," he says. "You sometimes hear about jobs and then the backers don't know who you re. You go, 'Well, have they seen this?' and they go, 'Oh yes, they've seen that, they've seen this, but they don't know who you are.' And you go, 'I don't want them to know who I am. I just want them to know my work.' " This November he will be back at the Donmar Warehouse in Richard Greenberg's Three Days of Rain, a masterly chamber piece that ran for two weeks earlier this year. No doubt he'll once more watch the mounds of fan mail grow on the dressing-table of his co-star Colin Firth. But if Morrissey is not a backer's actor, he is a writer's actor (he is married to the novelist Esther Freud). He has been in two series by Tony Marchant (Holding On and Into the Fire), and Pure Wickedness (which starts next Tuesday on BBC1) is his second go at Lucy Gannon. In Gannon's Big Cat, he played a bruised loner whose fear of physical affection turns him slowly to psychopathic thuggery. In Pure Wickedness his Achilles' heel is not antipathy to sex, but fondness for it. He plays Frank, a window-cle ner from a Midlands village who married young, has four children and a sideline in philandering. His affair with the frustrated wife of a GP is of a different order of infidelity, however. Because of his role in Big Cat, as soon as he thundered boorishly on to the screen in Pure Wickedness I assumed that Morrissey would again be the villain of the piece. "Anybody watching it is looking for me to be the bad man in the story," he says. "Sure, I leave my wife and four kids, but viewers are looking for something extra - another wife and family, a disease - to make it removed from their life. And actually when he's just a man who has fallen in love and left his wife, it's like, 'Oh no, we can't ave that - that could be me!' I think it's the biggest fear that people have. My biggest fear is that my wife will meet someone else, fall in love and go off." Aspirational Frank may be as close as Morrissey has come to playing himself. "When [the GP's wife] wants to go cold on the relationship," he says, "it's to do with his class, the fact that he's not educated enough, and I found that very familiar." Morrisey was brought up in Knotty Ash, Merseyside, failed his 11-Plus and "became wallpaper in the classroom". An early passion for film was encouraged at the Everyman, where Alan Bleasdale and Willy Russell were writing plays for a company that included Julie Walters, Pete Postlethwaite and Jim Broadbent. "Actors held no mystery for us. They weren't people who were being knighted all the time, and you'd see them on the television. So it did seem an achievable prospect." He left school at 16, joined a company in Wolverhampton, and was cast as the lead in Russell's One Summer, Channel 4's first ever drama series. He went to Africa for a few months and by the time he came back it was on the box. "I got back to Lime Street and there were people looking at me, saying, 'I really like the show.' " He then went to Rada - "the one thing I wanted to do" - and from there it was straight into theatre: Cheek by Jowl, the Royal Exchange, the RSC and the lead in Peer Gynt at the National. Three Days of Rain was the first time he'd set foot on stage in five years. "On a film set is the happiest I am in my life. Every day is a challenge. In theatre there is a point when boredom kicks in." Morrissey has embraced his craft with the zeal of someone who assumed from his education that he would slip through the net. He reads avidly, has directed a short film about the meeting between Napoleon and the Pope, and this summer has been filming a Charles Bukowski short story. Forthcoming roles include a university lecturer in Fanny and Elvis, a comedy written directed by Kay Mellor. This month he is filming Some Voices, Joe Penhall's play about a care-in-the-community schizophrenic. It's as if Morrissey chooses roles like a getaway car. Despite all the sharp turns, one guideline keeps him moving in a constant direction. "The only thing you can use as an actor," he says, "is good writing."

Yes, but I did find this part amusing... No doubt he'll once more watch the mounds of fan mail grow on the dressing-table of his co-star Colin Firth. Think the author went to see 3DOR and saw the throngs of Volvo-drivers waiting to meet the man himself ;-)?

(Arami) How many times do I have to remind everybody: Not everybody. Just me. :-P And please, keep on reminding me, perhaps one day I will recall it *before* I hit "submit"! ;-) ---- Thanks for the Morrissey article, Karen, very interesting. I thought he was very good in 3DOR, and I would like to see him in something else.

No doubt he'll once more watch the mounds of fan mail grow on the dressing-table of his co-star Colin Firth. Now you know! If you want to send a personal to Colin, it will get to him at the Donmar. You just have to wait for 3DOR. Thanks for the article, Karen. Now who will write to Jasper Rees demanding one of Colin?

Thanks Karen, I didn't like DM in 3 DOR...he played the American Pip/Theo as if he came out of "Guys and Dolls" ....and after reading the interview, I like him less. ***** The Donmar Box Office crew is v. good about delivering anything backstage.

Good to know that, Evelyn ;-)

Jasper Rees has already interviewed Colin twice (at the time when FP came out in the UK). He's apparently an old mate...I seem to remember him writing that he'd known CF from his theatre days and how after the interview they went off to a pub together to catch up on all the news. He also described how Colin had written a piece about filming "A Month in the Country" for him, and that it was well-written but too long. (JR has also interviewed JE). I should think that if you want something to reach CF (a good luck card, or whatever) it's much more likely to reach him via the Donmar address than his agency!! Flash Harry...G M Fraser has a new Flashman book coming out this October (in hardback) "Flashman and the Tiger" It seems very probable that Prince William will open the Millenium Dome....his first public duty (lots of press coverage!)

(Me)How many times do I have to remind everybody: (Renate)Not everybody. Just me. :-P And please, keep on reminding me, perhaps one day I will recall it *before* I hit "submit"! ;-) I have to keep reminding myself - sometimes in vain. And you don't even need to hit "submit" twice: the sequence is: 1.write message, 2.hit"submit", 3.go off-line, 4. take a break, 5.forget what you've just done, 5. return to the screen, 6.go on-line, AND 7. voila, Yapp posts your previous message AGAIN. It took me nearly two years to fathom some of the caprices of the wretched program. And now back to the normal schedule... :-)

I guess I should post this over at #121, but it it's not exactly "discussion" more disappointing news. I phoned Miramax to ask about MLSF in the UK. Asked when it was going to be released, and was told that "no release date was scheuled for the UK". I said "It is going to be released?". Answer " Eventually, yes" Eventually!!! How lukewarm can you get. I've now lost all hope of a nationwide or even a selected release...I think it will be just one or two cinemas in London. And as to the date...well, I've already seen advance publicity for "Theory of Flight" (early Oct nationwide) and "The Winslow Boy" (early Nov nationwide). Y2K? I doubt if Miramax are planning any publicity. What is it with their attitude to this movie? Very disappointing. The Hollywood Reporter did give MLSF 5 stars, right?

For those *not* reading Topic 121 (MLSF spoiler), I'm repeating some news in answer to Mary's question but should be considered news for everyone: ...about the video of MLSF. You won't believe it, but the Miramax site now says the video will be available on May 4. I assume 2000. Probably because those 22 copies of the film have to make it around the globe by pack mule. ;-D Here's the url: http://www.miramax.com/mm_front/owa/mp.entryPoint?action=1&midStr=566 And I just noticed that Miramax no longer has MLSF listed under the category of "Now Showing" with AIH, Life is Beautiful, Outside Providence, and the Very Thought of You, but has moved it to the category of "Coming Soon to Video"!! Are these people out of their minds!! (Bethan) Eventually!!! How lukewarm can you get. That is so typical of Miramax's attitude here in the US as well. I've never seen such disinterest in a movie before (but, then again, I've never followed one so closely). Miramax has adopted a new Internet strategy for both Outside Providence and the Talented Mr. Ripley. It is doing separate and more elaborate websites (those are just two I looked at). It did slightly more at the Miramax cafe for the new Joe Fiennes movie (The Very Thought of You), with the additon of a couple of stills. I am shocked beyond belief that it has moved MLSF out of the "Currently Showing" category!

(Karen) Re: prestigious...This way it shows his appearance is of a "star turn." I agree. It's also a great way to lure viewers ...as if some of us need to be lured! (Evelyn) now will someone pleeeze read that book [TTOS] and not leave Bethan and me hangin' out there? Sorry, we're too busy reading Flashman books! ;-) Will add TOTS to my reading list, though. I'm also reading Flashman and the Redskins, Lynda. Haven't made it to the Apache wedding yet, but he's just married the madam from the New Orleans brothel. Looks as though he has 'weddingitis' in this one! Glad to read MLSF is still playing in Chicago, Karen. From the sound of things at 121, I thought it was pulled from theaters and on its way to video. Bethan, rally up your patience and fortitude. You will need plenty of both when dealing with Miramax about this movie. At least it sounds as though the outcome will be better than SLOW!

I started my post (above) before I saw your last one, Karen.

But The Very Thought of You failed miserably in the first week and took half of what MLSF took in its first week, oh hope that makes sense, I am so annoyed about Miramax, what is the matter with them, there are so many far far worse films out there, in fact this isn't a bad film . Haven't had time to phone Miramax Bethan, but will have a go tomorrow, we can let this lie. I see it is to be release in Australia on the 11th November, so I guess we won't get it in November, if there are really only 20 copies

(Ann) I am so annoyed about Miramax, what is the matter with them I dunno; maybe this is the way they treat every film that doesn't feature Gwyneth or Rupert. *meeeooowwww! hiss! hiss!*

That is so true, Eileen. Gwynneth is again on a mag. cover, and I have already seen a preview for her film (sorry forgot the title), takes place in Italy with Aiden Quinn as co-star. My local art house told me that MLSF would be there in Sept. THEY BETTER NOT LET ME DOWN!!! I feel for you Bethan, hang in there. :-)

*snicker snicker* (from Variety) The weekend's other major opening fared even worse. Miramax's "Outside Providence" was unable to take advantage of the Farrelly brothers connection to the film (as writers only) when the film finished outside the Top 10 at No. 11. The film made about $3.2 million in the four days in 1,050 theaters for an average of $3,048. The cume on the coming-of-age film, which also opened Wednesday, is $3.8 million. ************ Let's see, didn't MLSF average $10,000 per week in its opening weekend? Full box office results for the holiday weekend probably won't be out till later today or even tomorrow. Then we'll find out how many theaters MLSF is playing in. (Eileen) Sorry, we're too busy reading Flashman books! ;-) hee hee. I told Evelyn that I would take a break from Flashman and read TTOTS next, but I find it difficult to put down a book that has lines like this: "including Mrs. Leo Lade, smouldering at me across the table under a heap of sausage curls, and in a dress sp decollete that her udders were almost in her soup." (AnnW) But The Very Thought of You failed miserably in the first week I read similar bad/lukewarm reports about this one too.

For London travelers (one degree of separation): The Olivier award winning play "The Weir" is getting a new cast at the end of September. Included are Ruth Gemmell ("Fever Pitch") and Miles Anderson ("Oliver's Travels" and lots of BBC/ITV). Also Anthony O'Donnell and Daniel Flynn, both excellent actors out of the Almeida Company.

A correction regarding the Gwynneth movie shot in Italy, he co-star is Matt Damon. The story takes place during the fifties, loved the clothes.

You mean The Talented Mr. Ripley. It's a Miramax/Paramount production. I'm sure they'll be shoving it down our throats long before it opens in Dec. *** MEMO To: Miramax PR Dept. From: Harvey Weinstein Subject: MLSF Promotion/Release Schedule Please be advised that all funds dedicated to above-captioned subject must be diverted immediately to the Talk budget. The bills from the kickoff party are coming in. Mayor Rudy and those other bozos from the National Park Service are threatening to break my fingers if we don't pay up quick for using Liberty Island. Your immediate attention would be appreciated. The bums are outside banging on my door. *** :-)

Ah!! Now I understand. Also, I heard that Harvey ordered a box of his favorite cigars so they couldn't make any more prints of the film. Priorities!! BTW, from what I've seen on The Talented Mr. Ripley, the premise looked pretty interesting.

(Moom)I feel for you Bethan, hang in there. :-) Ditto,... Bethan/AnnW/Allison. Or as Our Leader would say:..."Ah feel yo'pain". I know...not funny...but at least you have hope...so many of the US fans never will see it on the big screen. ***** ( Chris)For London travelers (one degree of separation): We must not forget Jennifer at the National in Summerfolk.

Evelyn - so many of the US fans never will see it on the big screen actually perhaps some US fans will get to see it in the UK if they keep postponing the release date for MLSF, at this rate it could be playing in London in January 2000.

sorry - Evelyn - so many US fans never will see it on the big screen actually perhaps some US fans will get to see it in the UK if they keep postponing the release date for MLSF, at this rate it could be playing in London in January 2000.

Karen please help, I was trying to do italics, what am I doing wrong. How do you close the italics!!??

Sorry, what I am going to say seems direct your attention to a different subject (or can't I? Is it possible?). That does not mean that I am not interesting in MLSF, I do LOVE to see this movie if I can ever hope so BUT not likely to happen in my case. So I sort of glad that it moved to "Coming to video soon..." category, now I at least have a HOPE!!! Now, you must allow me to tell you, ever since my first acquaintance with CF through P&P2 (I've never heard his name before then), I came to realize that how ardently I admire and love the actor! Never in my life up to now, I felt so helpless to DROOL over some one whome I definitely never will meet in person. I often laugh at myself over my fantasies and think that I am mad indeed. How I am glad to find this conference! And feeling such relief to know that I am probably a normal humanbing. I have been ra bling here for months and just wanted to sit in a corner of the chat room to enjoy (and I have , very much) your conversations. Today, some how I want very much to give in my reserve and join you. Hope you guys can bear with my Enlish which is not my native. It took me a long time to come to a decision of viewing CF's other works other than P&P2 which I have lost count of times watching it. I was afriend that my image of CF will be altered by his other insignificant roles since he hardly played leading man before Mr.Darcy. This is the order of movies that I have seen (started two weeks ago): SIL, Thousand Acres, Valmont, Apartment Zero. So far so good, he seems to play villains (or some one who was NOT good) all the time BUT he is still dear to me (his hansom feature just irresists to me no matter how bad he became)and I'm very impressed with his acting too (especially Apartment Zero). And, I watched The Advocate last night. I don't know what to say. I had this such weird feeling and struggled in my couch tring not to stop the VCR. First of all, I hit the story, the dark, barbaric society disgusted me although I understand that it was a true story. I never liked nudity in a movie especially without any love/passion and this one really makes me sick to my stom ch. And to all of that, I saw CF NUDE and having sex (not making love, I dare say) too!!! I still don't know what to say. Just feel WEIRD!!! I am really sorry for CF, he has to make ends meet, I guess. Does any one here actually like the movie? Despite of my WEIRD feeling towards TA, I am so glad that my feelings to CF are unchanged. Sorry for drag this so long, I just have to get it out!

Yessss, Well blow me down, it seems to have worked, well done Rich (that's my son). The only thing I don't understand, the last posting was the first posting!! Bethan did you mention to Miramax today, that despite the lack of publicity, advertising and promotion MLSF has already make half a million dollars in the US, it surely deserves some decent promotion in the UK, where I have a feeling it will do quite well, when and if it eventually opens.

Welcome Xian, but why are we back to italics, I'm sure its nothing to do with me!! Xian, I agree about TA, not one of my favourite CF movies, you should try to see A month in The Country, Tumbledown and Fever Pitch,( my 3rd favourite CFfilm after AMITC and P&P. ) Can't wait to see MLSF, though, it sounds wonderful.

Welcome Xian. You have definitely come to the right place; we all feel the same way about this man. I too am still catching up with Colin's earlier work, but haven't found any that I don't like; just some I like more than others :-)

Welcome Xian! I liked Colin in the Advocate very much, including the wig. You will have to check out topic 98 and catch up with our CF film discussions.

WELCOME XIAN, Didn't I talk to you once in Chat Room? We're happy to have you ....The Happy Droolers, that's us!!:-) You have certainly seen a lot of Colin's projects.You'll have to join in our discussion board,,,#98. We just finished Femme Fatale. And our hosts tell me that we will start another after Colin's Firthday on Friday. We all have our favorites...but you know what? ...after the discussions I have gotten to like them all for different reasons. **** Don't apologize for your English...you're doing great :-))) ***** Ann, if more events get piled up on January...I'm gonna have to go for the month!!Think of it this way....a Christmas time release for MLSF wouldn't be all that bad...still time to be considered for a BAFTA. Now, promise you'll stay with us, Ok?

The last line was mean't for Xian...Got lost in the posting somehow. (does not mean that I don't want AnnW. to stay also....:-)))

Wellcome, Xian, and your english is perfectly comprehensible. Stick around!

Welcome Xian. I have to admit that The Advocate is one of my favorite CF movies (and it got some pretty good critical notices when it was released). I don't think that this is a film that belongs in the P category - one that CF did just for the money. DB looks pretty delicious, his supporting cast is quite good and The Advocate makes some insightful comments about law, political manipulation and hypocrisy which are as pertinent today as in medieval times. It met my major criteria for a worthwhile film - it made me thi k and it made me feel. I've finished Flashman and the Redskins and found it excellent. It's full of surprises and Flashy surpasses himself as a bounder, but it also made me tear up at one point; tell me, Eileen, if it has that effect on you.

Xian!! So glad to have you coming out that corner. Don't worry about your English. We understand you perfectly. You've seen many good performances from Colin (P&P, Valmont and Apartment Zero), each one of his roles is so different from the other. You are so right when you said he plays not so perfectly nice characters. That makes them so interesting to us and to him as an actor. I do like the Advocate. It's not great, but it is a funny commentary on those times - the late Middle Ages. Things were very different then and I find it useful to think of it that way. I join in the welcome and hope that you'll continue to play with us. We're all normal human beings too! ;-D ************ Ann, glad that your son helped with the italics situation. I deleted a couple of multiple postings from you. Hope you don't mind, but those italics were making me dizzy. No content lost. No censorship. ;-D If the italics are still there for anybody. Leave the topic and come back in again. If the *bad* (unclosed message) is still on your monitor, everything that follows will be in italics even if the tag was closed in a subsequent posting. The italics have been fixed!! Trust me.

(Xian) what I am going to say seems direct your attention to a different subject Thanks for joining us and for changing the subject. I often laugh at myself over my fantasies and think that I am mad indeed. How ...And feeling such relief to know that I am probably a normal humanbing. I know I laugh at myself all the time too. Are you sure we're all normal though? ;-) So far so good, he seems to play villains (or some one who was NOT good) all the time BUT he is still dear to me You're a true fan if you love our boy no matter what his character is like. Give The Advocate another chance. As the others have said, it's one of the favorites here. Maybe next time you watch it, you'll be able to overlook the parts that make you uncomfortable and be able to concentrate on just the story. It really is very good. I'm glad the other ladies here have welcomed you so warmly. I hope other lurkers out there will be encouraged to join us as well.

Evelyn: Didn't I talk to you once in Chat Room? I don't think so. I did not have the courage until today :) Moon: I liked Colin in the Advocate very much, including the wig. Lyndaw: I have to admit that The Advocate is one of my favorite CF movies... I all astonishment!!! I must missed the wig or some thing there and I think I will go back to watch it again (I still have four more nights or I should say four more times to watch? I'm not sure I can complish that without four buckets of ice cream to calm me down!). Evelyn: You'll have to join in our discussion board,,,#98. Moon: You will have to check out topic 98 and catch up with our CF film discussions. I'm on my way... Evelyn: Now, promise you'll stay with us, Ok? Gi: ...Stick around! I'll be back (from #98, of course). Thank you all!

(Xian) I'm not sure I can complish that without four buckets of ice cream to calm me down!). Very funny!! I'll have to use that excuse the next time I feel like having some ice cream. OK (close your eyes, Heide) here is the weekend box office results: MLSF was only in 19 theaters this weekend. It did move up one rung from 60th to 59th place and its gross was $59,152 (up 41%) for a cumulative gross of $573,375 in 46 days of release. The per screen average was a very respectable $2,850. Runaway Bride (in 2nd place) get $2,856 per screen. The highest ranked Indie film is Run Lola Run in 28th place; it averages 2,324 per screen, but has expanded greatly in terms of number of theaters (currently 172) and has made $5.5 million in 81 days of release. The other big indie is Red Violin in 29th place. It average $1,683 per screen and is in 235 theaters now. So that its cumulative gross is a very impressive $8.3 million in 88 days of release. Those kind of comparisons really make me wonder what kind of dollars MLSF could be grossing if they put it on more screens rather than less. :-(

(Karen) Those kind of comparisons really make me wonder what kind of dollars MLSF could be grossing if they put it on more screens rather than less. :-( Put it on more screens and bothered to inform the public that there such a movie out there.... Welcome Xian! And, I watched The Advocate last night. I don't know what to say. / ... / Does any one here actually like the movie? I liked it very much. The earthy atmosphere fit the time and place that Advocate was set, and you had to take some of it tongue-in-cheek. It shocks on first exposure, but once you get used to it, you enjoy that rather grimy experience of being in another culture with entirely different attitudes and beliefs. Challenges some of our own attitudes that we so take for granted ... we assume that everyone shares them ... and ought to ... but they don't! CF was gorgeous and the costumes were spectacular. (Convinced me he can wear *anything* and make it look good!!) ;-)

Also he can wear nothing and make THAT look good!! ;-P~~~

Welcome, Xian, so glad you found the courage to join us. It's always nice to get a new perspective on CF's projects. Re: MLSF -- MLSF actually gained a screen in my neck of the woods. No longer playing exclusively at one theatre in Cambridge; now at one theatre in Arlington and one in Newton (the 'burbs!). So we get two of those coveted 22 prints;-) Re: one degree of separation -- MEM is on front page of today's Herald. She's in town filming "The Perfect Storm" with George Clooney. Definitely a step down from working with ODB;-D

Here's a pic of the Nunnery on the Isle of Man, where Relative Values is being shot. It's owned by millionaire business Graham Ferguson Lacey and is currently a private residence, but recent speculation has the site becoming the IOM College's business school in the near future. I've put together some historical info, which will be on Murph's site.

Thanks Karen....neat pad....but Marshwood House in RV was in East Kent! ******* Meluchie has some SIL Pics in DVD on: http://members.xoom.com/morgaine/sil/index.html Also some gorgeous DVD's of P&P on: http://members.xoom.com/firth_place/pp.html Slow download on these Also until the problem is resolved, don't try to put the pics on Spring topics ...it won't work...trust me. If anyone has a favorite request for a pic she asks that you email her at meluchie@grin.net

Welcome Xian! Thanks all for your words of encouragement re. MLSF. What cheeses me off (that's putting it mildly!) is that I get the distinct impression Miramaax have no strategy for or interest in MLSF in the UK. Movies are promoted differently over here. All Miramax have to do is get some interviews with CF (and photos on the front covers!) in the Telegraph colour supplement, Mail on Sunday, and Sunday Times, including favourable comments on MLSF (great reviews in the US etc), and maybe some advertising on Classic FM radio (the Simon Rattle connection), and they've rea hed a target audience of 5million. If only 5% go to see MLSF, it will be a success! But to do all this, they need a date for release (not too difficult surely)and some forward planning! He was very cute in "The Advocate" and even cuter in "Hour of the Pig"! Although I must admit the first time I saw certain scenes, I thought "oooh, Mr Darcy!" and hoped that no-one would be watching (it was on terrrestial TV). And then I watched my recording and pressed re-wind (just for another quick look), and then another...and another. Very cute, as I said! Lovely pic of The Nunnery, Karen. I'm sure this movie will be a good looker. And they have been very fortunate with the weather...it's been absolutely brilliant for the last ten days or so....so any exterior location shots will be impressive.

(Susan) MEM is on front page of today's Herald. She's in town filming "The Perfect Storm" with George Clooney. Definitely a step down from working with ODB;-D Indeed! Perhaps MEM can pull more from George than ER's Doug Ross in different clothes. Welcome, welcome, Xian. The Advocate was a bit different, wasn't it? I first watched it, Apt. Zero and Valmont back-to-back. My head was spinning! If the nudity made you uncomfortable, then be warned: stay away from Playmaker for awhile (either that or stock up on ice cream!). Thanks for the Nunnery pic, Karen.

Thanks for the photo Karen, shame about the satelite dish!!

Bethan/Ann ...You might ask Miramax, the next time you call ,if they will distribute MLSF in the UK. I thought that when we called about the premiere of SIL they referred us to another distrib.

Hi, I have just visited Murph's guestbook and someone has written that they have met Colin on the Set of RV., she lives next door, has autographs watched some filming and says he looks just as good in the flesh, well we know that ladies don't we, what a lucky lady and I bet he was just as charming to her as he was to his Firthfans in March at the Donmar.

Following is an article which was in an Australian Sunday Paper (The Sun Herald) over a week ago. A lady at work told me about it but her husband had thrown out their copy. Some people just don�t understand how important these things are:-). Anyhow, it took me a while to track it down but here it is. There were about ten men on the list but I don�t know why or how the people who voted were chosen. Other than Colin, Sean Connery is the only other actor on the list.. ************ "BLOKES WE LOVE" Colin Firth, actor Nominated by Susan Johnson, novelist Two words: wet shirt. If you�re not already swooning, you obviously missed Colin Firth�s sodden Mr Darcy climbing out of the pond in the celebrated TV adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. That single scene cemented Firth as a sex symbol and sent sales of Jane Austen novels soaring. But for Johnson, author of Chaos and Flying Lessons as well as a recent memoir, A Better Woman, Firth�s appeal is his lack of sexuality. "He was devastatingly handsome as Darcy but in other roles he�s completely different," she said. "As an actor, he can climb out of his own flesh. He can assume sexiness, or be virtually sex-less. In Fever Pitch he played a man dumb to his own emotional life. In Shakespeare in Love and The English Patient he was unrecognisable. "He has the same talent Marilyn Monroe apparently had in real life, to make himself anonymous. To me, that�s real star quality." While many authors are notoriously critical of films adapted from books, Johnson praises Firth�s ability to interpret literary characters. "When you read a book, you bring your whole emotional history with you. You turn it into your private book and it can be difficult for an actor to replace the imaginary person you�ve created. But he�s very good at reading a writer�s intention towards their characters," she said. Johnson pays Firth the ultimate writer�s tribute: she�d love to see him in an adaptation of her work. "He�d be great as Martin, in Hungry Ghosts, who�s a real bastard but devastating to women. But then, he�d also be great as Billy, the acrobat in A Big Life, who�s a very sensitive bloke. He can play just about anything. *************

Thanks for that Cathey, obviously a lady of good taste. BTW I have often wonderered how big was P&P when it was first aired in Australia, did it have the same effect on the females of Australia and it did in the UK?

"as" it did in the UK.

Thanks, Cathey, for the article. Perhaps Susan Johnson has attempted to interest him (or his worthless agent) in her novels. Firth�s appeal is his lack of sexuality. Who is she kidding? ;-D

(Ann W) I have often wondered how big was P&P when it was first aired in Australia, did it have the same effect on the females of Australia and it did in the UK? I cannot speak for the rest of the country, but amongst my circle of friends we all watched it and thought it wonderful, although I was the only one who became utterly and completely obsessed. From the women on the staff at work, only about three seem to know who/what I was raving over. A couple watched it (or parts) when it was re-screened recently, but couldn�t quite understand where I was coming from (silly girls). The good news is that my 23 year old niece has borrowed my copy and said she "really enjoyed" it. I�ve told her to watch it a second time ~ although she is on a time limit because I said I can�t live without it for more than one week ;-) (Karen) Firth�s appeal is his lack of sexuality. Who is she kidding? ;-D I knew this would cause a comment. I nearly added my own when I typed that part. I guess not everyone has our intelligence and insight :-)

Oh yes he did, there are so many of us in Oz. P.and P. is repeated over and over again. We have seen most of his works here before that but I suppose like myself did not recognise who he was until Darcy. I think most would agree with the article by Susan Johnson. One of our greatest journo's Ita Buttrose was asked once what she wished most to go to bed with oh Darcy she sighed - another Closet admirer - we are many I think.

Interesting article from The Hollywood Reporter: Indies cast beguiling spell (Thurs., Sept. 9, 1999) By Thom Geier NEW YORK -- It was the season of the witch. The witch, of course, was "The Blair Witch Project," the film that took cinema verite to a whole new level, put newcomer Artisan Entertainment on the map and shook up the movie business more than any other independent picture since "Easy Rider." Within days of the picture's going wide, every studio in town was attempting to emulate a marketing strategy that had defied the biggest challenge facing the indies: How do you sell a low-budget picture against mega-flicks from "Star Wars" on down without blowing your entire funding on a few television ads? Artisan turned to a new alternative: the Internet. And while the film's premise and mythology were uniquely suited to the Web, the online strategy will likely have an impact on how both studios and indies find their audiences for years to come. For indie distributors other than Artisan, the bad news was that nothing came close to "Witch's" success. The good news was that, quietly and almost unheralded, this was in many ways a terrific season for the independents. In fact, the nation's art houses enjoyed one of their best summers in recent memory. At least six art house releases are poised to cross $5 million at the boxoffice this summer, compared with just four last year. In addition to "Blair Witch," G2's "Tea With Mussolini," Lions Gate's "The Red Violin," Miramax Films' "An Ideal Husband ," Sony Pictures Classics' "Run Lola Run" and Artisan's "Buena Vista Social Club" all performed superbly this summer. This tabulation does not include Fox Searchlight's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and USA Films' "The Muse," higher-budgeted films which were immediately targeted to a wide release and which to date have earned $16 million and $8 million, respectively. Why the success? In a summer that saw Hollywood move increasingly away from more mature audiences, there may have been no studio fare to compete with the indies. "I don't think Hollywood had really great alternatives for adult audiences," said Dick Morris, a veteran indie exhibitor in the Southeast. Films like "Mussolini," "Winslow" and "Husband" are old-fashioned films that appeal to the "Masterpiece Theatre" crowd, he noted. While "Blair Witch" broke records in art houses around the country (before transferring to commercial theaters), it did not detract from the art house audience, appealing as it did to a more mainstream crowd. That left art house movies with a wide-open field, and many of them made the most of it, getting word-of-mouth that kept audiences rolling in. "We love those films like 'Buena Vista Social Club' that just play and play and play," said Doug Freed of Landmark Theatre Corp. "Buena Vista" was Artisan's other summer success. Wim Wenders' Cuban jazz documentary, a low-cost acquisition, has grossed $4.5 million nationwide so far (though curiously the film didn't catch on in Cuban-friendly South Florida). If Artisan reaped the benefits, the riches weren't spread throughout the community. Paramount Classics, which has quietly been moving into motion a year after Ruth Vitale and David Dinerstein were named to head the company, made little impression with its first few releases, while other titles from Trimark and the Samuel Goldwyn Co. similarly struggled to break from the pack. The early part of the summer was so dominated by the "Star Wars" prequel, said Searchlight president Lindsay Law, "if you had a movie that you thought could expand beyond the art houses, you'd be hard pressed to get the screens for it." "Star Wars: Episode I -- The Phantom Menace" also pushed back studio releases to later in the summer. "August wasn't the normal dead time," Law added. Because of that, this year he avoided his usual practice of opening a potential crossover film in late summer as he did last year with "The Slums of Beverly Hills" and two years ago with "The Full Monty." Several films -- like Lions Gate's French-language "The Dinner Game" and Fine Line's gay romantic comedy "Trick," both of which may have crossover appeal -- will be rolling out to several major markets in the early fall as more screens become available. As the fall gets under way, the indies may return to normal. Few of them expect a summer like this to happen again. Even though Artisan is already developing a sequel to "Blair Witch," almost nobody thinks that the "Blair Witches" will become a trend in the industry. " 'Blair Witch' is the best release of a specialty film in 20 years," said Morris. "We sometimes ask ourselves, 'How do you expect these little films to compete with the big blockbusters?' But here's a horror film that doesn't have spurting blood, special effects or the entire cast of 'Dawson's Creek,' " notes Lions Gate Releasing co-president Mark Urman in admiration. "The fact that that film can happen, and happen on that scale, is gratifying." But no matter how many incantations witch wannabes might mutter, don't expect it to happen again.

Thanks for the articles, Cathey and Karen. I admit that when I read this Two words: wet shirt. my first reaction was "here we go again" but Susan came through by moving on...except Firth�s appeal is his lack of sexuality. Poor choice of words! In a summer that saw Hollywood move increasingly away from more mature audiences, there may have been no studio fare to compete with the indies. Pshaw! I thought Big Daddy was captivating. *giggle* both of which may have crossover appeal I wonder how "crossover appeal" is determined.

Thank you Cathey and Karen, I enjoyed reading both. A reminder! Tomorrow Sept. 10th CF turns 39! Please join us at his "virtual" birthday party at topic 110. He has been forwarded an invitation through his agent, thanks to Evelyn. Might we expect him to collect his presents at cf.com? See you there! :-D

It might be a stupid question: Can any body explain how the birthday party to be held virtually? The detail of the party plan please? I have no idea what I should do. Will it be a celebration while we chat along? Thanks a lot!

Evelyn has gotten her wish. My Flashman's Lady book was missing all sorts of pages and I couldn't continue. So, I've picked up TTOTS.

Xian: Moon will explain all to you.

Xian, I notice you have posted on Darcy drool, well, just find topic 110 in the same way and post your birthday wishes. We are practicing posting our "virtual gifts" on topic 61 if you wish to experiment with an html as a present. Anyone who wishes contributes to at a "virtual" party, some even come on camel backs. Ay Marcia?

Xian, here's a link for Ann's HTML guide, check it out. http://www.spring.net/~anneh/toota.html

There is a message on Lisbeth's timeline guestbook from someone whose daughter worked as an extra on SLOW!! No details though.

Apparently the British Film Istitute/Channel 4 have brought out a report on "Black films" in the UK. Very, very critical about funding and distribution. Films focusing on mainly black communities (as does SLOW) are not regarded as having any Box office potential. (Significantly the only other Arts Council funded film that failed to find a distributor was one about the Chinese immigrant community in London.) MLSF...am feeling more positive. Having read the seemingly endless reviews of films being shown (non-competition) in Venice makes me realise just how many films there are out there, struggling. MLSF will at least go to video (both formats), unlike most indies. "Flashman" is addictive...now, I've finished "Flashman at the Charge"...another marvellous read.(Includes the Charge of the Light Brigade). Can't decide which is my favourite book. A couple of very funny sexy/romantic encounters which could (just) make it to the screen! Not quite R-rated!.

(Bethan) "Flashman" is addictive. Isn't it? I can't remember the last time I spent several weeks without any TV (not even DB's videos). I am not looking forward to finishing the last book. Have you reached the actual Charge and why Flashy leads it - hilarious! I can understand why some readers refused to believe The Flashman Papers were fiction - never has a fictional character seemed so real to me as Sir Harry, V.C.!

He can play just about anything. Does that sound familar. Andre Davies said the same thing about him. Wilde is on Showtime tonight at 10:00 ET if anyone is interested. Clive Derbyshire seems to feel the same way about ODB as G.P, M.E.M and so many other people who have worked with him. He seems to charm everyone who meets him.

That should be Wilde is on Showtime.

An update on the Sea Wolf from THR: 'Wolf' packs it in at Columbia Columbia Pictures' remake of "The Sea Wolf" has run aground. The Imagine Entertainment-produced film was recently put into turnaround by the studio when it became clear that the key personnel could not fit the project into their schedules, a Columbia spokeswoman said. The long-in-development project, based on Jack London's novel about a tyrannical sea captain, was to start shooting in the fall. "Wolf" looked as if it was finally coming together for producer Brian Grazer when veteran helmer John Boorman ("The General," "Deliverance") came on board (HR 5/6). Though "Wolf" has no stars attached and is now on Columbia's back burner, Boorman eventually wants to make the film, sources said. Grazer has been developing "Wolf" for 15 years. Several writers, including David Koepp ("Stir of Echoes"), have taken a pass at the script. Director Ron Howard and Oscar winner Nicolas Cage were once attached to the project. Sources noted that Columbia originally wanted Sean Connery to star in "Wolf," but the actor passed. [...] Sources noted that although Boorman is still attached to "Wolf," he is eyeing another adaptation for Columbia: John Le Carre's "The Tailor of Panama." Boorman and Le Carre are co-writing the "Tailor" script. ********** Miramax is well-known for picking up films in "turnaround" from other studios and succeeding (SiL is its best example), although it still might mean working with that overgelled Grazer! ;-D Perhaps there's hope for Colin to be cast in the Le Carre-Boorman film.

Well, i bought my first Flashman book, and plan to start it tonight. :) The ladies at the used book store i shop at nearly fell over laughing when they saw me browsing in the military history section (i always buy romance novels) but once i had explained my sudden interest in Flashman, they promised to watch the movie when it's shown in the US. :)

Love the Birthday stuff over at #110! Colin was featured in The Times Birthday list ("Mr Colin Firth, actor, 39"). He was the youngest by over 10 years. Mostly the great and the good...Harvard University professors, House of Lords, opera, good works etc, a smattering of show biz. Arnold Palmer has the same birthday. Not so good news. Was determined to be pos-i-tive about MLSF, but I've just seen a listing of films opening in the UK in the next few months... and not a mention of MLSF! :-( Also movies like "Ravenous" (cannibalism, bad reviews, Robert Carlyle) and "The Trench" (First World War effort written/directed by William Boyd (who wrote "Dutch Girls") are getting nationwide (200 prints) releases in the next two weeks, and I know they were both filmed just over a year ago. I just can't understand why there are ju t 20 prints of MLSF...for the entire GLOBE!! Delivery by pigeon post. We've also got a major Film Festival in our area at the moment, showing most of the independents which have recently opened in the US.."Winslow Boy", "Run Lola Run". Again, predictably, no MLSF. Miramax...what are you doing? :-((

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Sorry for the error, Bethan - obviously you've read the Charge part if you've finished the book. SB, let us know what you think of Flashy; which book have you started with? (Bethan) but I've just seen a listing of films opening in the UK in the next few months... and not a mention of MLSF! How far ahead does the listing go? Maybe Miramax is going to give it a December release in the hope of some BAFTA attention?! Don't give up. We are still waiting for Fever Pitch - has anyone heard anything yet?

(Lynda) We are still waiting for Fever Pitch - has anyone heard anything yet? Actually, yes, now that you mention it. There was so much going on with the birthday celebration and - it wasn't time critical (!!) - so here goes: Phaedra now says (as of Sept. 9) that the film will be released on October 15 in New York and LA to follow within 3 weeks and further markets beyond that. It is also in the process of negotiating a video release deal, but it would be no earlier than six months after the theatrical release. There had been reports from both LA and Canada that videostores were to receive shipment of Fever Pitch on September 28th. This is *news* to Phaedra. I wonder if the Canadian company that released FP last summer had the ability to distribute it on video and has proceeded. Wouldn't that be a riot?

(Bethan)....Love the Birthday stuff over at #110! But we missed **you** Bethan/Allison. Colin missed you too;-) Wha' 'appened??

According to Mari, on Saturday's Access Hollywood show they announced there would be an interview with Julie Andrews on Wednesday from what looked like the film set of Relative Values. Get your VCRs ready!! ;-D

I just finished checking out 110 -- what a riot:-) You all outdid yourselves! Hope Colin and/or his agent checked it out. Sorry I had to miss it; Friday was a day from hell. (Bethan) Colin was featured in The Times Birthday list ("Mr Colin Firth, actor, 39"). Don't know if anyone already mentioned this, but Colin was also in "Entertainment Tonight"'s birthday list on Friday -- a first for him. Ironically, Ryan Philippe, who played the Valmont character in "Cruel Intentions" (is that the right name of that film?), has the same birthday!

....Colin was also in "Entertainment Tonight"'s birthday list on Friday -- a first for him. ET was pre-emted here for a stupid tennis game....but he was on it last year too...Also he was on etonline.com website..under Celebrity Birthdays(thanks to Karen) wearing his "Premiere suit".

...Colin was also in "Entertainment Tonight"'s birthday list on Friday -- a first for him. Nope. He was mentioned the year before last. I was pretty surprised last year when he was not. I taped (I think) ET that night on it's middle of the night replay since it was preempted here by tennis as well. Haven't checked it out yet. Might not have even taped the right sequence since all the times seemed to be *off* that night due to the tennis highlights, rain delays, etc.

my son was watching some programme on TV last night...the most memorable 100 moments on TV ever this century, or something similar. Covered mostly world events and sport (ie the real as opposed to fictional world). Moon landing, JFK assassination, Mandela's release, Berlin Wall,Diana's daeth, England winning World Cup etc. He said that the last episode of "Blackadder" was ranked 10, and added for good measure tht "Mr Darcy coming out of the pond" was number 25! The last episode of "Blackadder" I might exp lin was more than just the last episode of a comedy series. It showed Blackadder and his fellow soldiers going "over the top" at the Battle of the Somme, and then froze the image and merged it with images of fields of Flanders poppies. They really were "killed", and it was inexplicably poignant, not a comic moment. Anyway Darcy and his wet shirt are in very august company!!

(Bethan) ... the last episode of "Blackadder" was ranked 10, and added for good measure tht "Mr Darcy coming out of the pond" was number 25! Seeing as how we have just established (on 112) that there was NO scene of "Mr. Darcy coming out of the pond", I would imagine that would remove it from consideration. :-) (Or maybe they are confusing it with some other P&P scene that really DOES exist!?!) ;-D

(Evelyn)But we missed **you** Bethan/Allison. Sorry not to join in all the fun on 110. That is partly because I am a cyber dunce but also because life is very hectic at the moment and when I do get the opportunity to sit at my PC some member of my family always materialises at my shoulder! No time to myself. Loved all your wonderful messages and pictures. I do hope someone showed Colin the celebrations he inspired. I saw the 100 great moments on Channel 4. Colin was in very good company - though M. Prtillo losing his seat at number 3 in the list, I thought was extaordinary (Nobody outside the UK will understand what I am talking about)but what did you think of that Ann or Bethan? In the Sunday Telegraph magazine there was a feature on filming in the Isle of Man. Mention of JA and RV but not CF. Almost eveyone else you have ever heard of has apparently been there filming in the last year.

(Evelyn)But we missed **you** Bethan/Allison. Sorry not to join in all the fun on 110. That is partly because I am a cyber dunce but also because life is very hectic at the moment and when I do get the opportunity to sit at my PC some member of my family always materialises at my shoulder! No time to myself. Loved all your wonderful messages and pictures. I do hope someone showed Colin the celebrations he inspired. I saw the 100 great moments on Channel 4. Colin was in very good company - though M. Portillo losing his seat at number 3 in the list, I thought was extaordinary (Nobody outside the UK will understand what I am talking about)but what did you think of that Ann or Bethan? In the Sunday Telegraph magazine there was a feature on filming in the Isle of Man. Mention of JA and RV but not CF. Almost eveyone else you have ever heard of has apparently been there filming in the last year.

I have the Channel 4 "100 Greats" news and a loverly picture on my news page. Murph

Thanks, Murph! Pretty amazing that Mr. Darcy can compete with the moon landing as a memorable moment. Of course I understand it mind you, but I'm kind of surprised the rest of the world feels the same way :-).

I forgot to say that one of the FOF listers from New Zealand has the European version DVD of SIL. In a scene at the end that was cut afterwards, you can clearly see Colin/Wessex drowning while holding tight to his chest of money. I say that this view is purely the midnight fantasies of Shakespeare, and cannot be true. We all know that Wessex and Viola went to Virginia, where he became a new man. Murph

(Bethan) Anyway Darcy and his wet shirt are in very august company!! Thanks Bethan. We can always use reminders of what an impact that scene had on your viewing public. Wonder how it would have registered in the US if P&P had aired on a major network? You know, the beach scene in Thorn Birds always rates way up there in terms of memorability. I think it topped the list as most romantic scene ever on television. ;-D The dripping Darcy would surely have rated as second most sexy... that is to formally dressed Darcy!!

(Allison) That is partly because I am a cyber dunce That *part* we can rectify. ;-D

Not really anything we didn't know before, except the name of the film: Blackadder's sidekick Baldrick, best known for his creativity with turnips, proves he can be even more imaginative by building a time machine. The bumbling man-servant - played by Tony Robinson - builds a copy from Leonardo da Vinci's designs in the new film Blackadder Back And Forth. The film, in which the comic pair travel through the ages, can be seen by visitors to the Millennium Dome from January 1, 2000.

Allison) That is partly because I am a cyber dunce (Karen)That *part* we can rectify. ;-D As one who took "one small step forward.." I can vouch for Karen and Marcia's expertise as cybermentors.

Recent graduates receiving high marks in their independent study projects were: Elena, KJ, Gi, and Evelyn. You all get A++++ (Did I leave anyone out?)

Did I mention that I saw MLSF again yesterday? ;-D Am always so afraid that it will leave town so I traipsed up to the burbs. Was quite an adventure yesterday, involving the motor club and a near-death experience.

How did you like it? I also loved it very much indeed. I recently found out thru another fan of CF that the actress who played the role of his mother is actually Jennifer Ehle's (Elizabeth Bennet) mother. CF was excellent in the film and I can also watch it over and over again. I'm so glad that you share the same interest. Anybody out there fans of Jennifer Ehle? Her film "Bedrooms & Hallways" just opened in my town (of course its limited opening). Anyone see the movie? Pray tell me if its worth watc ing. I think she's also a wonderful actress.

(Nancy) How did you like it? Oh I liked it pretty well! (I think this is my sixth viewing; have lost track!) ;-D Have you gone into topic 121. That's where we've been discussing the movie. Anybody out there fans of Jennifer Ehle? Funny that you should mention that...

(Karen)Was quite an adventure yesterday, involving the motor club and a near-death experience. Yikes!? Wha' happened? What a true Firthfan won't go through just to see one of his movies for the nth time...

(Karen)Recent graduates receiving high marks in their independent study projects... There are so many things that I could thank Mr. Firth for and one is to have learned a tiny bit of html!! Our dear boy possibly has no idea of the actual effects that he has on people�s lives, hobbies and connections (maybe better sometimes!). Let�s see where my firthoholism will eventually take me ;-D

(nky)Anybody out there fans of Jennifer Ehle? Her film "Bedrooms & Hallways" just opened in my town (of course its limited opening). Anyone see the movie? Pray tell me if its worth watching. NKY, Meet me at #72 for JE Info.

(KarenR)Recent graduates receiving high marks in their independent study projects were: Elena, KJ, Gi, and Evelyn. You all get A++++ Thank you, ma'am :-)

(Elena) there are so many things that I could thank Mr. Firth for and one is to have learned a tiny bit of html!! So true!! And to show you what another talented lady has learned to do, check out Kirsten's latest embellishment for our film discussion summaries up at firth.com. She has added gorgeous pictures of relevant scenes. Oh my, I'm going to have to print these babies out again! http://www.firth.com/filmdis/disindex.htm

I just dropped by there and it looks lovely. Great work! She hasn't put up the latest discussions yet, on Tumbledown, Femme Fatale and 3 Days of Rain - which I suppose must be edited first - by you, Karen?

Yes, those need to be edited. she covers her face in embarrassment

Kirsten did a masterful job....I didn't think we did all of those. I remember I didn't participate in TEP because no one liked RF and I did and was afraid you would all flame me.....:-(

(Evelyn) I remember I didn't participate in TEP because no one liked RF and I did and was afraid you would all flame me.....:-( I edited out all positive refs to RF. Only left in the comments that agreed with my view that he's a pencil-legged lizard-eyed actor that shouldn't be wearing shorts! ;-D

Too funny Mme la comtesse A..., I mean Karen! I admit I am quite taken with Geoffrey in TEP. :-) Thanks Kirsten for a fantastic job! clap, clap. School has been cancelled tomorrow because of Hurricane (Pink) Floyd. It is supposed to reach us on Wed., we will put up the shutters shortly. :-(

Off on a "Flashman" tangent again. "Flashman's Lady"...now this, I thought can't be "real" (although the account of the cricket matches is very accurate and the named cricketers all existed)...but the ghastly Queen Ranavalona?...no way!! So I looked her up, and guess what, there was a Queen Ranavolana in Madagascar who was known as the "female Caligula" because of her wanton acts of cruelty, and who hated all foreigners. There are even paintings of her ( a buxom wench) and her wooden palace. Truth is stra ger than fiction!

Don't you remember I posted a picture of Queen Ranavalona? quite ugly though you have to maintain perspective on the period. I've suspected that Fraser's detail is all fairly accurate historically. Who else would go to the trouble of citing obscure references that might bear witness to the validity of Flashy's accounting of an event? Have still not received my replacement copy of Flashman's Lady. Library said today it is intransit from the main one. I could walk there faster. About 10 pages were ripped out of a sequence in Madagascar. Bet it was a doozy!! Read TTOTS in the meantime. What was going on with those kiddies?! Were they Children of the Corn? Yikes. I'm going to have to reread it. Blinked and nearly missed the Master's scene. ;-D

About 10 pages were ripped out of a sequence in Madagascar. Bet it was a doozy!! Page 259 onwards? :-) Either an outraged reader practising some rudimentary censorship, or someone who wanted to make a closer study of Malagassy mating customs! I think that all of Fraser's work is more or less historically accurate, which makes it all the more graphic reading. I wonder which novels/or parts of novels they'll chose to translate to the screen. I don't think the budget will be large enough for too many panoramic fight/action scenes in exotic locations (more likely Europe). They used Spain and Turkey for the overseas shoots in "Sharpe" and "Hornblower" The four 100 minute movies which made up the Hornblower series had an overall budget of �15 millio (a lot of money for British TV, but not comparable to Hollywood) BTW I like the relationship between Harry and Elspeth..funny and very endearing!

Re: TEP discussion... (Karen)I edited out all positive refs to RF What positive refs?...in your dreams,pal :-) Not withstanding the above (ahem)...I know everyone joins me in thanking Karen for the editing job on the Discussion Segment of cf.com. Tedious work slogging away at all those postings on #98.And Kirsten , of course.Thank you both. ***** Bethan, I enjoy all the quips about Flashy ...adds to the anticipation:-) ***** Moon....do keep us informed...we're thinking of you.... ******

I just watched AMITC last night at the first time and I love it!!! I went to cf.com CF movie discussion and read through all about AMITC. I really enjoyed everyone's take on AMITC. It answered some of my questions as well. So glad to get some information about the scenes from the book which helped me to understand the characters further. Many thanks to you who worked (and still working) on those pages and beautiful pictures. I have to go back to watch the movie again (and will have my own copy soon). Of c urse I have to buy some ice cream on the way home, it heated me up in the different way from TA did :-).

(bethan) I wonder which novels/or parts of novels they'll chose to translate to the screen. I don't think the budget will be large enough for too many panoramic fight/action scenes in exotic locations (more likely Europe). They'll likely emphasize Flashy's part in the battles, since, IMO, the battles themselves are not really the focus of the books, thank heavens. (bethan) BTW I like the relationship between Harry and Elspeth..funny and very endearing! Me, too, especially in Flashman's Lady, one of my favourites in the series. I also find Flashy's occasional sentimentality (though he won't really admit to it) quite touching. As for his ladies, Elizabeth Bennet would have fit right in with the rest; Flashy prefers 'em feisty, too (though he'll take 'em anyway he can get 'em, apparently).

(Bethan) Page 259 onwards? :-) Could be ;-D or someone who wanted to make a closer study of Malagassy mating customs! Ooohhh, can't wait. Person also took Appendix C. If the book is that good, I'm going to have to add this one to my collection. Remember you were talking about the new editions that were published? We probably won't have those versions here as they are different publishing houses. Ack!! And I really wanted to see the one with his arms held akimbo. :-( Would be nice if there were a reprint with CF on the cover. :-) I don't think the budget will be large enough for too many panoramic fight/action scenes in exotic locations If the Isle of Man can double for the south of France, anything is possible. (Xian) So glad to get some information about the scenes from the book which helped me to understand the characters further. The book and screenplay were very useful to us too, especially because of the Yorkshire accent. Many of us couldn't understand one thing those Ellerbecks said! ;-D (Lynda) (though he'll take 'em anyway he can get 'em, apparently) Oh yes. He's not that picky.

(KarenR)Remember you were talking about the new editions that were published? Would be nice if there were a reprint with CF on the cover. :-) Hey, that's a great idea. Perhaps I'll wait for that instead of buying now.;-)

(Karen) Would be nice if there were a reprint with CF on the cover. (Gi) Perhaps I'll wait for that instead of buying now.;-) Maybe someone in the UK can call the publisher to find out if it is planned? Huh? Please? ;-D

Blackadder back to the future The boys are back in time: Tony Robinson and Rowan Atkinson Bumbling man-servant Baldrick has a cunning plan and builds a time-machine out of old cereal packets for the Blackadder millennium special, it has emerged. Visitors to London's Millennium Dome will be able to see Blackadder and Baldrick travelling through the ages in the new film, Blackadder Back and Forth. To be shown in the Skyscape events venue from 1 January, 2000, Rowan Atkinson stars as dapper Sir Edmund Blackadder. But it's his faithful sidekick Baldrick, played by Tony Robinson, who builds a home-made time-machine from Leonardo da Vinci's designs. But the controls of Baldrick's craft prove difficult to manage and the duo spin randomly through history, causing chaos. "Bringing Blackadder to the big screen has always been an ambition," said Atkinson. "I am delighted to be realising it to celebrate the arrival of the 21st century, but extremely worried at the prospect of travelling through time with Baldrick." Robinson added: "A lot of people say that they see Baldrick as an 'everyman' character and, if that's true, then I don't think it says much for a British character." The film has been co-written by comic Ben Elton and Richard Curtis, who scripted the biggest grossing British movies of all time, Notting Hill and Four Weddings And A Funeral. Curtis said: "It's all an irreverent trek through British history - a time travel adventure story consisting entirely of people who are either rude or stupid." Atkinson and Robinson starred in four series of the BBC comedy Blackadder and were last united in Blackadder Goes Forth, shown 10 years ago this month. The film, also featuring Kate Moss, Colin Firth, Rik Mayall, Miranda Richardson, Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie, will be shown on TV on Sky in 2001. The BBC also plans to screen it at a later date. Tickets to the Dome go on sale on 22 September at a number of outlets including 25,000 National Lottery ticket sellers, or via the ticketline on 0870 606 2000 and the Dome website. Atkinson Kate Moss

I thought Kate Moss was only a model (a very famouse one, of course), can she really act? Surprise me!

...Colin was also in "Entertainment Tonight"'s birthday list on Friday -- a first for him. (Karen) Nope. He was mentioned the year before last. I was pretty surprised last year when he was not. Yikes, thanks for correcting me, Karen. I remember that CF wasn't mentioned last year so I assumed this year was his first go. I didn't think ETdropped you from the birthday list, once you were on it, unless you died or did something unseemly like become an ax murderer.

(Susan) I didn't think ET dropped you from the birthday list, once you were on it, unless you died or did something unseemly like become an ax murderer. Or worse yet, you didn't have a project out in a year (such was the case last year. There was ATA, then nothing). You know how H'wood works--here today, gone tomorrow; you're hot or...not. Besides the Ryan Phillippe birthday coincidence, here's another: everyone's fave stumble-bumble actor, Hugh Grant, celebrated his 39th birthday on Sept. 9th--he's one day older than ODB.

(Lynda) SB, let us know what you think of Flashy; which book have you started with? Started with book one, and i'm about halfway through it. I like it well enough (remembering of course i'm addicted to romance novels and rarely venture forth into anyother genre) but find the campaign in India to be a triffle boring. Fraser's writing is excellent and Flashman's character is so clearly depicted one feels compelled to read on with a bizzar kind of fascination. (Bethan) BTW I like the relationship between Harry and Elspeth..funny and very endearing! I'm looking forward to seeing this relationship develope -so far my greatest amusement has been the scene just after he seduced her, when he thinks what a beautiful, stupid idiot she is. When i read this i started laughing and thought -oh this is SO the girl he's going to be forced to marry! And sure enough it was. *hee hee* serves him right. :) btw- is Elspeth really as stupid as she seems to be or is it an act? and why on earth did Flashy leave her with his father? I'd say the odds of his seducing her are awfully good. Perhaps Flashman just didnt care.