Colin Firth (Part 6)

To keep the flow from 119 going, I'm pasting Karen's latest news on DQ here: Topic 119 of 123 [drool]: Colin Firth (Part 5) Response 1966 of 1975: Karen (KarenR) * Sun, Oct 17, 1999 (11:03) * 14 lines Donovan Quick was screened on October 12th at the Cork Film Festival. This review from the October 15 Irish Times discusses several other films, so here are the relevant portions: QUIXOTE AMONGST THE STREET KIDS European cinema's current passion for portraits of petty crime and casual violence among disaffected urban teenagers has reached Cork Film Festival. Hugh Linehan found himself rooting, instead, for a quirky Scottish drama. Both From the Edge of the City and Schpaaa go to some pains to emphasise their modernity, extensively featuring hip-hop and dance music on their soundtracks. In contrast, the BBC Scotland production, Donovan Quick, ignores such contemporary trappings. It's often been a valid criticism o British (and Irish) films that they avoid the modern world, even when they're supposedly addressing it, and the last year has seen a rash of bland, anachronistic Full Monty-lookalikes to reinforce the point, but David Blair's quirky, likeable film is too individual and unusual to be lumped in with the rest of that crop. As the title hints, this is a modern-day Quixotic tale, which pits the little man against the overweening forces of authority. Colin Firth plays the eponymous, mysterious hero who shows up as the new lodger on the doorstep of the Pannick family, led by alcoholic Lucy (Katy Murphy), and including her learning-disabled brother (David Brown, who is himself learning-disabled, giving a terrific performance). To the Pannicks' bemusement, they find themselves caught up in Firth's crusade against the ruthless corporation which runs the local public transport system, and Murphy's cynicism is challenged by his idealistic "madness". Donovan Quick is the kind of film which, in the wrong hands, could have ended up as the most awful sort of sentimental mush, but the screenplay (by Donna Franceschild, who wrote the recent adaptation of Robert MacLiam Wilson's Eureka Street for the BBC) and direction are too intelligent for that. Blair was responsible for the under-rated TV drama, Vicious Circle, based, like The General, on the life of Dublin gangster Martin Cahill, and here he convincingly creates a cast of highly believable, sympathetic characters who you find yourself really rooting for.

Yippee for the good review of DQ. I probably be in my grave before that gets where I can get hold of it. Something interesting--just came back from American Beauty, and they thank the Donmar Warehouse at the end of the credits. Anyone know what the deal is there?

Have we really drooled this much?! Incredible...but, so is the man. He is worthy!

(Cymbeline) they thank the Donmar Warehouse at the end of the credits. Anyone know what the deal is there? Wasn't that cute? Yes, Sam Mendes, the director of American Beauty, is also the artistic director of the Donmar. You can bet those people had to do extra while Sammy boy was in Hollywood. ;-D

(Karen)Wasn't that cute? Yes, Sam Mendes, the director of American Beauty, is also the artistic director of the Donmar. You can bet those people had to do extra while Sammy boy was in Hollywood. ;-D Karen you're amazing--we will never have to want for information as long as we have you around. Thanks!!

I was so disappointed that I could not join Eileen and Heide, and all the other firthettes for Saturday's viewing of FP. But I was able to slip away to Montclair, NJ today for the5:15 show. I enjoyed FP immensely. Some of the dialog was very difficult to hear/understand, probably due to accents and the differences in idiomatic English usage between the US and UK. But no more difficult to understand than "The Full Monty" for example. Any film with CF is a visual treat for me. However I must say I prefer a clean-shaven CF, not the grungy look he sported here. Although I must admit the extra growth did enhance his left dimple. Those who are concerned about ODB's hair can relax, there is plenty here. (His hair, Louisa! His hair!) And now for the bad news. I did see the crowd (and I use that term loosely) for the 3:25 show exiting the theater, all 6 of them. And I was joined by 4 others for the 5:15 show. I didn't stay to see the 7:15 audience. Sure hope they're doing a better business at the other three theaters. Perhaps this is why films like MLSF never make it to the Garden State. The word must be out that New Jerseyians are just the cineplex sort of movie-viewers.

Karen. I do think BBC Scotland is striving for a theatrical release for DQ Why are all ODB projects so complicated nothing is simple, last August I thought we would have 3 TV projects to look forward to and now all we have is a 10min cameo in TTOTS possibly at Christmas, DQ is to most likely get a theatrical release and the one I was really looking forward to, a whole series with ODB in the starring role and in uniform ie Flashman is no more (althoughj I am still keeping my fingers crossed, there as too much information in The TV Times article for there not to be something in the story). I continue, Londinium, has it got a Distributor?, we have been waiting ages for news of SLOW, and thankfully it is at last out of the Bank Vault but how long has it taken, MLSF is still to be seen in the UK, May 2000, I won 't hold my breath, both of these made in 1997!!, Relative Values well this one seems okay but personally it is the one I am least excited about seeing, Blackadder, 20pounds to see a 2min cameo, oh well thank goodness for 3DOR, we know it starts on the 9th November, and ends on the 22nd January, a nd that ODB will be there acting his little heart out. End of rant, it must be that Monday morning feeling!!!

(Ann), oh well thank goodness for 3DOR, we know it starts on the 9th November, and ends on the 22nd January, a nd that ODB will be there acting his little heart out. End of rant, it must be that Monday morning feeling!!! And lucky you that will attend! I would trade any film of his to see him on the stage.

Yes, of course, that's true Moon, but I feel better now that I have got it off my chest. I would dearly love to see MLSF however, after everyone's comments about the close-ups!!

You want a rant? At least you're in the same country with him. No matter whether he's in London or LA, he's always 3000 miles away from here--well, maybe sometimes he's 30,000 feet overhead, but I haven't learned to spot his plane yet. There are *no* ODB films playing in the DC area. I've gotten every video I could wring out of my local rental stores. There was one, yes one, copy of P&P for rent in my humble burg, but they put that in the warehouse and no they wouldn't get it out for me. I'm so sorry, I thought you were a video RENTAL store, not a video STORAGE FACILITY. They do have the 1940 version with Oliver Lawrence, as the knowledgeable clerk put it. Imagine to yourselves how many times someone's rented that in the last decad . Imagine how much more money they could make with ODB's version. But I guess they're not in it for the money; they'd rather see how much they can frustrate their would-be customers. The county library system has all of four of his videos and don't get me started on how they've cataloged P&P so *it's impossible to get all 6 tapes at once or even in the right order*! As for Hostages, Tumbledown, Wings of Fame, and Femme Fatale--if I ever get a chance at those it will be on that big video screen in the sky. I know, I know, if I really loved him I'd buy every video, and it's rapidly coming to that. But the thought of the ever-increasing list of new work that swirls out of my reach--MLSF, FP, DQ, TTOTS, RV, Londinium--has me unhinged. Most of those will never open in the US, or if they do it will be for two minutes like MLSF. It would probably be best if ODHost just wrenched this revolting lardbucket of self-pity right off the screen, but this is a support group, right, and you all know what it's like to live without him, right? You may address me as Ginny from now on--not the Ginny in the bed of the pickup, the Ginny wandering hopelessly under the window calling, I love you, and receiving no reply. Yes, this Christmas he'll be acting his little heart out in London and so will Rufus as Macbeth, and I'll be here. I know that by now there is not a wet eye in the house. I too am going to face Monday morning. So let me shift for myself, and someday, if I have very good luck, I may meet with another Bruce Willis.

Is Rufus doing Macbeth again, I didn't know and am surprised as the reviews weren't very good and Ginny my problems pale into insignificance compared to yours, I feel ashamed, as you say I do live in the same country, get to see him on stage, and will see some if not all of his future projects. Sorry!!

Ginny , you can buy some of CF's videos through reel.com , previously owned, almost for as much as you can rent them . I got FF for $6.00.Worth the price of gas alone. ~~~

Oh my!! What have I stepped into this Monday morning? ;-D Time for some virtual slapping. Buck up, buckees! Yes, the wait to see Colin's works is interminable, but at least Ann you will be seeing SLOW before us in a lovely theatre full of people (compare that with MLSF's dumpy venues with 3 people on average in the audience). For DQ, nothing is certain about where it will play. Remember, BBC said "early next year" for transmission was the original game plan. At some point, they will make a decision for airing it. Efforts to sell to foreign countries would continue however. On the Londinium front, I'm due to check in with those people at the end of the month. I have a copy of Binder's The Sex Monster on tape now, but haven't taken a look at it. Ginny, Femme Fatale has been on TV (called Fatal Woman) as has Hostages (history channel). And there have been several reports that TTOTS will be on Masterpiece Theater in it's winter-spring 2000 season. You will love seeing 3DOR and Colin on stage is worth many unreleased movies in the bush. ;-D

You are just like my sister Karen, you seem to put everything into perspective.

Heide, it was great to finally meet you! You are the runner-up for the "I'll Travel a Million Miles for One of Firth's Smiles" Award--sponsored by Evelyn--since a member of the Firthlist drove 5 hours to NJ to see it, surpassing the 2 hours you drove. I was glad you made the trip! It's much more fun seeing his movies with other fans. We were sorry to have missed you, Sylvana, but I'm glad to see you made the trek up the Parkway to see it. Yes, the dialogue is difficult to make out in several places and there are alot of colloquialisms (I probably murdered that spelling) which fly over the heads of us Yanks. I found this page quite helpful: Clare's Fever Pitch Page There is an excellent glossary which will help you out. If you're really into it, you can pick up Hornby's book from your local library or bookstore (non-fiction section). There's no Paul [:-(] and no love story, but it does help. (Sylvana) Perhaps this is why films like MLSF never make it to the Garden State. The word must be out that New Jerseyians are just the cineplex sort of movie-viewers. Those tiny ads and mixed reviews in the NY papers didn't help. Besides, we all read the Ledger over here. Of course those 10 and 12-plexes on every corner are stiff competition. And last but not least, everyone is up to their eyeballs in baseball :-). Isn't the Wellmont a lovely theater, though? As Heide mentioned, the movie suddenly got dark about 2/3 through our viewing. Slyvana, did this happen to you? It was hard to see faces, particularly when Paul and Sarah have their fight in the kitchen. We could barely see Paul's mother's cat wearing the little Arsenal shirt! Thank goodness the film didn't melt before our eyes as MLSF did, and it did brighten up before the end. Everyone in our group had seen the video countless times, but we managed to notice something new on the big screen: as Heide mentioned, CF's scruffy face, pierced ear and Ruth's freckles; others noticed the vintage Arsenal lamp next to his bed and tears on his face when he thinks Arsenal are going to blow it (during the dark kitchen fight scene). What struck me was how funny the movie is. Yes, I've watched the video countless times and heard all the jokes before--perhaps it was the men (all 2 of 'em) i the audience laughing it up that influenced my reaction. I love, love, love that restaurant scene. It's one of my all-time Firth favorites. (Sylvana) His hair, Louisa! His hair! We all had that same reaction! Those who are concerned about ODB's hair can relax, there is plenty here. Oooh, I hate to burst your bubble, but...in one of the scenes where Paul is sitting at his desk (the one in which the principal comes in to tell him about the head of year job interview arrangements), I'm afraid there's a definite scalp-sighting to be had (from behind and on top). His hair wrangler must have had that day off. (Cymbeline--er, Ginny) well, maybe sometimes he's 30,000 feet overhead, but I haven't learned to spot his plane yet. LOL! If you figure out a way, will you let me know? :-P and someday, if I have very good luck, I may meet with another Bruce Willis. LOL even more...bite your tongue, girl! FYI--you can purchase a boxed set of P&P videos for a song these days (most of us paid around 100 clams; it now goes for $39.99 and under). Check out Sam's Club/Price Club/Costco, Best Buy or even Sam Goody. You never know when you might happen upon Darcy's big brown eyes staring up at you! Yes, Ann, do snap out of it! You'll see MLSF! If the video comes out in the US in Jan. '00 as promoted, you can see it before May (with a little conversion magic). Heck, if it wasn't for the generosity of a certain person here, I wouldn't have seen FP until last Saturday--some 2 1/2 years after it was released in the UK. Don't worry, you'll get by with a little help from your friends!

This was posted today at the FOF: 10/19/99 - From the "Going Out" section of Womens Journal (UK) November 99. LONDON FILM FESTIVAL FIRTH GOES FORTH Ladies, it's time to get over Darcy. Colin Firth is far too talented an actor to be pigeonholed. This month his new film Secret Laughter of Women premieres at the London's Film Festival. It's a touching love story set among the Nigerian community in the South of France. Playing a lazy colonial drawn to a single mother, Firth is terrifically funny (Sample line: "Never follow a girl in Clarks shoes. There's always a father with a shotgun behind"). And , yes, he smoulders in true Darcy style. Then in December, Firth returns to London's Donmar theatre to repeat his dazzling performance in Three Days of Rain with Elizabeth McGovern and David Morrisey. Tickets were like gold dust last year, so book now. In the first act, Firth plays the dysfunctional son of an American architect; then in the second act , we see his father (also played by Firth) on his first date with his mother. Heartbreaking stuff - and not a pair of breeches in sight. The 43rd London Film Festival runs from 3rd-18th November. For a programme call 0906 6132000. 3DOR opens at the Donmar on the 9th November. To book call 0171 369 1732 Murph Re FP: So lovely meeting Heide for the first time, and Eileen for the second. I saw the freckles on Ruth, and the unshaven chin on Paul, but clean missed the lamp, the tears, and the sparse top of head. I also loved his rapport with the kids. He made a perfect teacher. And isn't Mark Strong great too?

Thanks, Murph! Was there a picture to go with it?

LOL!! 'Fess up Ann and Cymbeline - you feel better now, don't you? A little healthy ranting never hurt anybody. Cymbeline, you stick around with us, youll see all his videos. Sylvana, sorry we couldn't meet up with you but I'm so glad you got to see it the next day. How'd your sparse audience react? Any men? Murph, thanks for the info on Colin. Do we dare feel optimism for SLOW?

Of course I feel better--that's what support groups are for. None of this stiff upper lip nonsense for us Americans. Where I come from complaining is an art form. I knew I could count on you all to hold me up when my Firthlessness reached desperate levels. Besides I spent the afternoon power watching Circle of Friends again, and he really is marvelous. There are sentences and inflections in it that could have been said by Darcy but b/c he had such command of his facial expressions and body movements he comes across as a dorky cad instead of as a man violently in love. BTW has anyone noticed that there is a part near the beginning of Another Country where Tommy is talking to Guy, and it could be Darcy talking to Bingley when they were at school (if you leave out the Bolshie rhetoric). I've decided that they met at school, D and B that is--what does anyone think or is that a question better directed to the Republic of Pemberley? Anyhow, the wonderful thing is that ODB had that voice by the age of 23, probably by the age of 15. I shall try, with your help, to be patient and content myself with knowing that somewhere on this planet ODB is doing something, and of course it's wonderful.

At the end of support group meetings, one should get presents to make up for the pain and duress. So here's my present to you all. Paul Ashworth looking mighty good on my small screen and not at the multiplex:

Now you tell me! Is that brooding or petulant? See? Hair color doesn't make a bit of difference. 8-D

Ohhhhhhhhh. Thanks Karen, I needed that. It gets so frustrating reading about everything he is doing and wondering how much we will get to see and when.

Hi everybody, it is a lovely Autumn Tuesday morning, Colin is already getting publicity for 3DOR and SLOW sounds great, how is that for the British stiff upper lip. Sorry if I was a bit over the top yesterday, it came out all wrong in print but it can be frustrating being a CF fan, I think we will all agree but he is worth the wait and I am sure I will get to see MLSF somehow , thanks to my friends and support group at Spring. I can't wait to see SLOW in November, and will give a blow by blow account. I am so glad you got to see FP on the big screen Heide, I understand that it will only be playing in NY for one week, is that correct and will it still go to LA & San Francisco, Karen?

I think that we just have to accept that multiplexes/movie mags/marketing and promotion etc are geared almost exclusively to movies like "American Pie" and "Big Daddy" and all small films are going to struggle to reach an audience. But just hang in there! But DQ and SLOW are actually being screened and have both got very good reviews! I understand why DQ would be pushed for a theatrical release (carries more kudos and chances of US/international exposure) but as a BBC film it will eventually be also shown on television. And I'm sure we'll get video releases of both (and PAL can be converted!)

Thanks, Karen! He looks a bit like Rupert Everett there IMO--no bad thing in itself. And wouldn't it be fun to see them do something together again. There is only one thing worse than thinking about ODB all the time, and that is not thinking about ODB all the time.

Thanks, Karen! He looks a bit like Rupert Everett there IMO--no bad thing in itself. Heeheeheehee....................................

I checked the box office results for last weekend, and Fever Pitch is not on there...all the way down to 104th place, which is a film that is playing on like one screen. Have to conclude that Phaedra didn't report its take. Who knows if they will take it to LA now. :-(

It's good to see UK publicity that begins with the line Ladies, it's time to get over Darcy. But then they blow it with And, yes, he smoulders in true Darcy style. Clearly the author has not gotten over Darcy yet. Thanks for sharing, Murph! (Karen) Have to conclude that Phaedra didn't report its take It must have been miniscule. There was too much going on this weekend to lure sports fans away from their TV sets (we sports and CF fans found a way, though). I hope Phaedra hangs in there and moves it to other US cities anyway. (Bethan) I understand why DQ would be pushed for a theatrical release (carries more kudos and chances of US/international exposure) but as a BBC film it will eventually be also shown on television. IMO this is the best position to be in. I'm hoping for theatrical release so we can see it on the big screen over here. Either way, we know we'll see this one!

Hi Karen, according to Yahoo Movies Top Movies site Phaedra did report the takings for FP, which stood at 2,519dollars , at #94.

Thanks, Ann. FP didn't appear on THR's listing and they all come from the same company, Exhibitor Relations.

Just read that Phaedra is pulling FP from the NY area on Thursday (10/21) due to disappointing results. So we should know shortly where (or if) it's headed next.

I think this is the Flashman cover that Bethan seemed to like (a lot):

LOL, Karen you were on Jeopardy at the wrong time. One of the catagories tonight was Spam.

The Chameleon strikes again: The Tumbledown Archives Here's a new section of the threedeers archives on cf.com, with a heap of Tumbledown pics, some of them never seen before online. Brace yourself, this is not Mr. Darcy. ;-) http://www.firth.com/arch/tum/tn-tum50.htm

(Renate)Brace yourself, this is not Mr. Darcy. Oh no? What about in the dress uniform? I am sure that is him. Wonderful pictures! many thanks.

Great pictures! Thanks, Renate and Arami, for resurrecting the archive. I like the separation of pictures and edited text. Will we see more? ;-D

8-o What do you mean, "will we see more"? Of the text? 22 large pics not enough? Hmmm...... could it be possible that you only found the thumbnails, and did not click on them? BTW, not only the thumbnails are clickable, but the large one's, too. And I would like to hear which of the pics is the favourite here.

"will we see more" Pics and text from other film/TV roles.

I don't know if this review has already been posted but there is an excellent review for MLSF and for Colin in The San Antonio Express News http://www.expressnews.com/pantheon/index/rat-review.shtml and Evelyn there is also a very good one for B&H, have you seen it before. Scroll down the page to find the MLSF review. Thankyou very much to the 3Deers for the lovely Tumbledown page update.

Cogratulations 3deers! You have done a wonderful job.

Karen, yes that is the "legs akimbo" cover picture of Flashman! Not my favourite Flashman book though, although it does contain some of my favourite dialogue....an exchange with ol' Abe Lincoln (when he was still young!) "I said I was a good dissembler... "You must be," says he "And I speak as a politician, who knows how difficult it is to fool people." "Well" I said "my own experience is that you can fool some of the people all the time - and all the people some times. But I concede that it's difficult to fool all the people all the time". "That is so" says he, and a great grin lit up his face... Flashy is a must-do role. All my fingers firmly crossed on this one. Mind you, CF may have no other option soon but to do television work. There's a report in today's Telegraph on how "Hollywood have delivered a devastating blow to Britain's film industry when Universal Pictures announced that it was taking over the lucrative distribution business of UPI in London." Industry observers believe that UPI will now coninue as a video distributor and will not have the budget to turn small British films into international successes....."It's the final nail in the coffin....Hollywood thinks it should control the world". Oh well, things can't get worse...and to be honest I think that a lot can be achieved within the confines of good television drama! Ann, I phoned Buena Vista and asked about MLSF. The Disney (why Disney?) PR person said that the release date is "tentatively" May, but there's no confirmed date. At least they are talking about releasing it, but the "tentatively" beats me! By the time MLSF hits our screens, wee Fraser will be a six footer and studying for his Scottish Highers! But we will see it...we just need patience!

Promise!!thanks Bethan.(I can't wait to see those close-ups on the big screen) I really can't understand why they can't be more definite though, can you?

"will we see more" Pics and text from other film/TV roles. Probably. Eventually. Please be patient. :-)

Thanks so much for the lovely Tumbledown shots, esp for those of us this side of the pond who will have to wait till the next life to see it, even though the events it concerns took place in our very own hemisphere. The rugged sooty-faced look is very nice too, don't you all think. And I do like those boots he's wearing in the shot with him and Robert Lawrence. Well, even though we live on crumbs, what crumbs they are. I watched Another Country again today, and it is a great movie in itself. But the voice, Louisa, the voice! If I could make an audio tape of his lines and just walk around with a walkman glued to my ears for the rest of my life I'd die happy. As I've mentioned before a lot of the time he sounds like Darcy talking to Bingley in their schooldays.

"will we see more" Pics and text from other film/TV roles. Probably. Eventually. Please be patient. :-)

(Bethan)Ann, I phoned Buena Vista and asked about MLSF. The Disney (why Disney?) Buena Vista is owned by Disney and is the international arm of the company that distributes all Disney films (Miramax etc.) ~~~~~ "Hollywood have delivered a devastating blow to Britain's film industry when Universal Pictures announced that it was taking over the lucrative distribution business of UPI in London." Another view is that the Industry might have gone "belly up" without Universal. .."It's the final nail in the coffin....Hollywood thinks it should control the world". But any other company (UK or European) could outbid them, I'm sure. ~~~~~~ Thank you for Tumblewood Page...Difficult to look at, but tremendous acting. My fave pic is the one in the dress uniform.... ~~~~~ Thank you Ann; San Antonio came through for Colin and Jennifer in their reviews. Let's hear it for Texas!! Out west, we know good quality films:-D Bring on FP!!

(Cymbeline) If I could make an audio tape of his lines and just walk around with a walkman glued to my ears for the rest of my life I'd die happy. You and me both, my dear. His voice, *shiver* and his then there's his eyes, *sigh* -and his hands... *slowly melts into an overstimulated puddle of drool*

Good to be part of the sixth board, thanks Heide for setting it up. 3 Deers ,as usual you have done a marvellous job, putting RL in our midst. Thanks. It is lovely to come out of lurkdom and find all these goodies.

I have enjoyed your tales of FP and meeting up to see it. You have reminded me that I am the proud owner of a lifesize FP poster, kindly obtained by a very empathic friend. I must go and brush the dust off and unravel it!! BTW I think the OBSERVER is running a comp this Sunday to win tickets to LFF. Maybe MLSF will be on offer to the winner!

Good to see you here again, Lizza!

I have enjoyed your supersleuthing for DQ too Karen. As ever you have the CF facts at your nimble fingertips!!

Lizza, didn't you have some story for us about Wessex's cod piece? Do tell! :-) Another view is that the Industry might have gone "belly up" without Universal. (Evelyn) I can see that point of view! Marketing and distribution...the British film industry never quite realised the significance of this! Great Tumbledown pics.

I fear big companies destroy the making of different films to want they believe the public wish to see. They forget their are millions of us out there that rarely go to the cinema because we do not wish to see their offerings. Anne H

Great Tumbledown pics. This is a movie that I can't watch in it's entirety at one sitting. I always have to watch it by halves. It is a great movie and CF gives such an outstanding performance, a little too good for me. He brings it to life so well that I can't stand to watch it without a break. I know from experience on rottenly some of the vets have been treated after a war is over and they no longer are needed by the higher powers, so this really gets to me.

I have wondered many times where R.L. is now and how he is doing. Colin brought him into my world and I just can't forget him.

(AnneH) They forget their are millions of us out there that rarely go to the cinema because we do not wish to see their offerings. Sometime I think this is a chicken and the egg situation. Many of us do not go to the theaters period, but wait until films are out on video to watch from the comfort of our own homes. I see many films and, if I like one a lot, I may see it twice (as I did American Beauty or Eyes Wide Shut)--we won't count the number of times I saw MLSF. However, can we compete with teenagers who go to see movies 30 times! Or Star Wars films 100 times? I don't think the studios will miss my $8 from NOT seeing the tri e they put out during the summer. ;-D

Good news! I just phoned Optimum Releasing (distributor of SLOW) to ask about release dates. They are very friendly and helpful (unlike Miramax!) and confirmed that it will open on November 26. I asked if that would be London only, and they said that it would be "nationwide". I'm really pleased about this....I honestly only expected it to show in London and maybe two or three major independents like the National Museum of Film and Photography. "Nationwide" could still be a select release, but a select nationwide release is much better than select London. Aftter SLOW has opened, I'll get back to Optimum R. and ask about video release and any possibility of release in USA/Australia and other markets.

Great news Bethan, thanks, (hope that includes Brighton)!

Good news indeed about the nationwide British release of SLOW. Bethan, let them know that we droolers this side are just as firthful and will turn over our last dollars, pesos, etc., just as eagerly if they will only allow the Secret Longing of the Worshipful Company of Firthettes of the Americas to manifest itself in pilgrimages to the cinematic shrines there to lay our hearts at his glorious feet. Yes, I admit it, I've just rewatched Another Country, and my heart is Juddering. "I don't have to try; I am clever." Sob.

(Bethan) any possibility of release in USA/Australia and other markets. Actually yes. :-D SLOW has been sold for US release. That's what Optimum told me last week. Have been waiting to find out some more about that, but many industry types have been in Milan at the film market.

Correction: There is a US company acting as sales agent for SLOW, which doesn't mean it will be shown here. Sorry, if I've gotten anyone's hopes up.

Bethan, wonderful news!!! Thanks for cheering me up as I can't do LFF. An early Xmas present. You are quite right, I do have a codpeice anecdote to relate and must try to scan in the exibition poster that I procured. Watch this space.

MLSF is enduring in Miami! They just added a second week. I was told that if it did well they would extend the run. Cymbeline, have you check out www.reel.com yet? They have other CF films too or do you also have an admiration for Rupert E? Karen and I have a running joke about him. If interested, you will have to check topic 72, to our respective birthday parties. ;-)

I just got November edition of Woman's Journal so I could see the article and pic of CF. It's so inaccurate because they say he will be on stage in December and then give the November opening date!! Journalists should come straight to us. But come to think of it , when they do, like Sarah Toyne from Sunday Times, they never use the info properly anyway!!! I am going to contact a couple of independent cinemas to see if SLOW is coming here. This has quite made my evening!!

What great news about SLOW! Just knowing that it is finally getting a release makes me hopeful that it may finally work its way to the U.S. I certainly hope in less time than the record set by FP. Speaking of FP, I see that it is no longer playing in 3 of the 4 theaters in the New York area. (It is gone from Montclair, NJ. So glad I saw it when I did. There are no second chances with this one!) Does anyone know where the other 3 prints have gone? Have they materialized in other parts of the country? It is still playing in the CC Village East Cinema in Manhattan, however. And I need to apologize for not responding to questions posed to me by other posters (above). It has been some kind of a week around here. Glad it's over. To Eileen: thanks for the link to Clare's Fever Pitch Page and Gossary. Even though some of the dialog went right by me, it did help to fill im some of the gaps. Yes, the movie did darken about halfway through. But not having anything to compare it to (never say the video), I cannot judge how much darker. I did see the little kitty Arsenal shirt, so it couldn't have been too dark. There wasn't much laughter in the theater, with all 5 of us. There were two (apparently) married couples seated with me in the audience. I did laugh out loud during the restaurant scene. I think they did too. It was very well done slapstick, and cleverly written. I did see some of those fleeting images you mentioned--the Arsenal lamp (reminds me of my sons' rooms) and Ruth's freckles. But I did miss the sparse hair on top (just as well) and the pierced ear also got by me. Yes, very glad I made the trip to Montclair to see FP last Sunday.

I see now America has got their own Colin at last: Colin Hanks, 21, following in dad Tom's footsteps. The name alone is worth drooling over... ;-)

A good omen for SLOW,... Nia Long's new film "The Best Man" has gotten v. good reviews...."A witty, warm comedy about a half-dozen college pals who reunite for a wedding".Reminscent of "The Big Chill".

Let's hope that this film can carry more weight than the film Soul Food. That role didn't help SLOW get noticed. Isn't it awful that we're reduced to hoping that Colin's co-stars can carry the publicity for a film since it's obvious (in America anyway) that Colin's reputation means squat? Still, it is good news that SLOW's distribution in England will be wider than London. In the States we were perfectly satisfied to live on just the video for Fever Pitch. I'm sure we'll be just as satisfied for SLOW's video. Fingers crossed.

Question:Ann/Bethan: If you know that MLSF will be distributed by Buena Vista.... ...why do you keep calling Miramax? ~~~~~ ... Isn't it awful that we're reduced to hoping that Colin's co-stars can carry the publicity for a film since it's obvious (in America anyway) that Colin's reputation means squat? Anyway it gets here, baby...is OK by me :-D

f you know that MLSF will be distributed by Buena Vista.... ...why do you keep calling Miramax? The last time I checked, I did ring Buena Vista and got "release set for May..."tentatively"....but no confirmed date". Still puzzled by the "tentatively" and, of course, May!

Ann/Bethan ...why do you keep calling Miramax? because until I called the last time and was told by Miramax that they had a date of 5th May, I had not known about BV., the spokesman informed me then that "we only make the film BV decide on its release date" and following that Bethan, I believe, telephoned VF who confirmed the May date as above. I shall definitely not bother Miramax again!!

VF?=BV

Heide - How did you get the video for Fever Pitch? Was it available when it first came out but no longer? It's not listed on Amazon although they have Hornby's book. I just found out FP was made in 96! It's three years old, and here we are biting our nails hoping the film distribution gods will see fit to release it. Don't the fans want to see it? Don't the actors want it to circulate? Why must Firthettes live subject to this system of economic oppression by greed-crazed Philistine middle men? This would drive Tommy Judd crazy! Let's call BV and thank them for the good humored restraint with which they exercise their power, but we'd appreciate a little less rest aint and a bit more chance to see the man. And why is everything italicized?

Hmmm, just noticed that "An Ideal Husband" (completed 12 months after MLSF)is now out on video in the UK. I'm going to have a mini-rant about MLSF...as we are a self-support group! Please ignore if you prefer positive thinking!! I'm really pleased that MLSF is still showing in the US and is getting good reviews, but I do feel strongly that post-Darcy this should have been Colin's "breakthrough" movie in the UK ...moderately big budget (FP cost under �1.5million).. good cast, period drama, beautiful setting, Puttnam/Hudson, Simon Rattle soundtrack...it had an awful lot going for it, in terms of pre-promotion and publicity. It would have been possible to create quite a buzz about it, even if the actual film was only average in qual ty. And it seems to be better than average, and by all accounts Colin gives a good performance. But a release date 3 years after completion effectively kills the film. I've really never heard of such a long delay!!!!! Unprecedented! Fortunately, may the saints be praised, SLOW has popped up to fill the gap, and there's 3DOR. But I get the feeling that, in career terms, Colin is now lagging behind the likes of RE and JN, mainly because he hasn't been seen in the sort of lead roles he used to play before P&P!! Right, that's my rant over. Positive thinking hat back on. There was a nasty piece in the Times about Harvey and the failure of Talk magazine, which I won't repeat!!

Get Real, Bethan. MLSF was not going to be a break-through film in any country. It was a sweet film and he looked gorgeous....but break-through... non. RE made it in My Best Friend's wedding with Julia Roberts. JN made it in Emma with Gwynnie. Anyway, does Colin need a break-through in UK? Wasn't P&P enough of a break-through for him? The guy's a household word over there. He's married....He gets good reviews... He's working in TV, Stage, Films. He's happy...leave him alone!!

Cymbeline, My order of vidoe Fever Pitch is on the way to me :-). I ordered the used video tape through www.reel.com last week. The FP video only costs $4.99. I only hope the quality of the tape will not be TOO bad.

This is going to be interesting. Xian, are you sure that the Fever Pitch you are ordered is the one with Colin? There was another movie by the same name in the '70s or '80s with Ryan O'Neal that typically comes up in searches. Fever Pitch has only been released in PAL format in the UK, which our VCRs can't play. That being said, a Canadian video place shows a newly released NTSC Fever Pitch for $80. I haven't checked to see if it in fact exists, but it would be more realistic for the Canadian distributor to have put it out on video a year after its theatrical run in that country. Do let us know, Xian, what shows up? BTW, I once order "Another Country" from reel.com and got a music video by Willie Nelson. Twice!! ;-D

Oh Evelyn, you know we're happy if he's happy. Let's not get into that again. There's just frustration that he's unappreciated by the filmworld at large. But I wouldn't say Jeremy Northam's career is ahead of Colin's. An Ideal Husband's given him a little edge but the man has made some bad film choices. He's not Teflon Man yet. Xian, is your FP tape a PAL copy? The videos are out there, Cymbeline. I bought mine from a UK video store and had it shipped, then converted. But if Xian's is already NTSC, then I'm sure you'd want to check out reel.com too.

He's married.... Yes. He gets good reviews... Yes. He's working in TV, Stage, Films. Yes. He's happy... Yes. (We hope.) leave him alone!! Never. ;-)

(Heide)Oh Evelyn, you know we're happy if he's happy. Let's not get into that again. (Arami)leave him alone!! Never. ;-) Sorry to have offended everyone....I shall not mention that he's happy ever again....I promise:-) evelyn, crossing her heart

Of course we hope he's happy, at least I do. And I'm sure he's capable of managing his own career. I just want to see his films and follow that career and be able to drool over his latest work, and I don't see why we should have to work so dadgum hard to be able to do it. How many of us are there, anyhow? And does his agent know we're here begging for the chance to see him? Don't we have any kind of leverage? Are we just too insignificant a market force to make a difference? It would be one thing i one had to fight to get any videos at all, but when we're drowning in swamps of rubbish panning for those pearls sinking into the muck under the feet of the swinish hordes of Bruce Willis swillers ... It's not fair. MaMA! Tell her it's not fair. Picture me at the dining room table. I stamp my foot. I throw my napkin down. I groan petulantly. "Oh, I want to see all his videos!" And down at the other end sit the ogrish distributors, smugly saying, "And yet I am unmoved," and stalking off to their study, slamming the door and leaving me with unendurable feelings of Firthlessness. How do you get a PAL video converted--that is, where would you go to get it done? I checked out reel.com. They didn't have anything. Thank the gods you all are here. Where would I be without you?

Cymbeline, write to us at nomdedrool@yahoo.com ;-D

He's married....He gets good reviews... He's working in TV, Stage, Films. He�s happy....leave him alone!! I sure hope he�s happy and in case he is, he�s a great optimist. I�d like to know what he�s really thinking about his career because to me it looks modest at the moment and it�s not at all what he deserves. Obviously I�m having my Sunday morning blues and please do not let it affect you ladies but I think there are quite a lot of big disappointments in his career and I�m only wondering how he has been able to handle them all. Valmont failed so badly even though it was a good film, ATA was such a big flop, Nostromo was a 100 % failure, SLOW has been in the bank vault this long, MLSF ended up being a very small movie it seems, FP never became very popular.....trouble is, I believe they all must have looked highly promising to him, beforehand.

Heide- There's just frustration that he is unappreciated by the filmworld... well put Heide that is what I was trying to say a few posting ago but it came out all wrong and sounded like a moan which it wasn't meant to be I am pround to be a CF fan but we do seem to have to work so hard to get any information on our DB whereas other British actors such as Anna Friel (who just lately is on the front of every magazine and TV listings magazine going), Robson Green, Richard E Grant, Hugh Grant,JN. RE , ara Fitzgerald, I could go on and on, seem to be everywhere in the papers on our TV screens and in the news. For example take that recent Film 99 programme where they did a bit on Relative Values and Julie Andrews, it is a British TV programme and who do they interview apart from JA, but two American actors not our DB and Stephen Fry, why!! Lets hope that with a theatre play coming up and SLOW being released we will get to see a bit more of our DB. I am not moaniong I would just really like to see more f him in the media but I am also happy with things as they are if that is not to be.He is such a good actor that I wish more people knew about him and not only in this country.

Obviously I�m having my Sunday morning blues and please do not let it affect you ladies but I think there are quite a lot of big disappointments in his career and I�m only wondering how he has been able to handle them all. (Elena) there's just frustration that he is unappreciated by the filmworld... well put Heide that is what I was trying to say a few posting ago but it came out all wrong and sounded like a moan which it wasn't meant to be (Ann) I hope I haven't umleashed a strain of negative comments by by MLSF comments as I think there's a lot to be positive about...a return for 3DOR which did get excellent reviews and an unexpected release for SLOW. But I agree with Ann, Elena and Heide. He seems to be a very unassuming man and I'm sure he's an optimist (has to be!) but his career does have ups and downs. "Breakthrough" film was perhaps the wrong description for MLSF...I just meant a nice little potboiler that would keep his film career (leading man) bubbling along. British film critics aren't kind...and any film that reaches our screens nearly 3 years after completion will not have a favourable critical reception....or will certainly struggle. MLSF may not be a great film but so much rubbish gets released (apparently without any problem) that I do despair. I certainly want Colin to be happy....but I can see why he says that all he wants is recognition as a "good actor" (not apparently as God's gift to trousers, or that guy in the wetshirt!) Having said all this, I'm very hopeful that his 3 month stint at the Donmar (for the princely sum of �15 per day after taxes...barely enough to pay for his Kentucky Fried Chicken (and less than the cost of one ticket!)....) will remind everyone that he can ACT! And SLOW, DQ, even RV all sound very promising. And hopefully he'll do Mark Darcy in BJD, which will be a major release! Positive thinking!!

I was going to tell you all about the directorial/writing/acting abilities of Mike Binder, as displayed in The Sex Monster, but will hold off until you're all in a better mood. I hate to add to this doom and gloom. Besides, the marathon is about to begin and I have to go outside to cheer on the Kenyans and the Brazilan guy and then later watch for the jokers with Halloween costumes! ;-D

Look, let's not worry about our moods. I'm a Brooklyn Dodgers fan; I've been in a bad mood since 1958 which is to say before ODB was born. IM arrogant, conceited, and selfishly disdainful O, I don't think anyone with half a mind can be in any other most of the time. Yet we have been given a great gift, and that is the cinematic record of the work of Colin Firth who is one of the best actors working in the English language at this time. The fan of Colin Firth must have such sources of happiness necessarily attched to her position that she could on the whole have no cause to repine. Yet the frustrations inherent in trying to see that work are so many and so unceasing that there are times when only an existential rant among fellow Firthettes can get you ready to face he day. So I say let us rant, and maybe our collective energies will become strong enough to bust the vaults open and let the films out where the worshippers can actually get to them. I can only add God bless you.

So I say let us rant, and maybe our collective energies will become strong enough Did it work to bring the Dodgers back to Brooklyn? ;-D

....until you're all in a better mood OK, I jogged a few kilometres with hubby and baked some mushroom rolls and thus am feeling slightly better now :-) Remember what a big agony went on here after Christmas 1999 and we were speculating the terrible possibility that Colin was planning to retire? And then suddenly we were hit by the terrific news of 3DOR, an opportunity to see Colin live in a first class play! I guess his career will always be like this: it�ll make us despair and rejoice by turns. Btw I�d be very interested to know if the tickets to 3DOR are selling well. The play is one of the not-so-many successes of his so it�s very important for Colin that the house is full every time.

...and had to watch Fever Pitch last night. Lamp in full view and could tell there were tears, but where oh where could you see his ears were pierced? I rewound and freeze-framed and sat about 3" from the screen! Ted's lines: "About which part? The clandestine affair? The accidental pregnancy? And Paul's response: "Not those bits maybe. But me applying for the job. That's good news, isn't it?" Still make me LOL!! :-D

All right, Karen, kick me when I'm down. No, it didn't bring the Dodgers back to Brooklyn, but 40 years of devotion to a hopeless cause is good training for being a Firthette. We shall conquer this--we SHALL!

Ah, but you mustn't forget. I live in Chicago. We are eagerly awaiting the year 2000 because we have a feeling that it might be a better century for the Cubs! ;-D

(Elena) after Christmas 1999 I meant xmas 1998, hope not 1999!

(Cymbeline) How many of us are there, anyhow? And does his agent know we're here begging for the chance to see him? Moon? I'm surprised you haven't jumped in here yet. ;-) Just when we're on the edge of the cliff ready to jump off, we're thrown a lifeline. So judging by the mood around here, I'm expecting good news any moment. Or just read Bethan's Response 87, last paragraph. Karen, you're going to have to see FP on the big screen to see that little hole in his left ear. I'm humbled that I can't remember which scene it is because re-viewing it for the umpteenth time on my TV screen does not help find that pierced ear one bit. Still, if the search brings you such pleasure in those wonderful little scenes again, then go to it!

(Heide) ...I'm expecting good news any moment. I like it! Anyhow, no matter what they do to us, he's still dynamite!

I've been in a bad mood since [...] before ODB was born. I'm arrogant, conceited, and selfishly disdainful Are you my long lost twin sister? ;-) take that recent Film 99 programme where they did a bit on Relative Values and Julie Andrews, it is a British TV programme and who do they interview apart from JA, but two American actors not our DB and Stephen Fry, why!! Calm down and remember that there are two sides to a coin - it is just possible that neither Colin nor Stephen were actually available when the interviews were filmed.

Well...if you enjoy this "Whine Fest"...who am I to spoil it? "Go to it"...if it turns you on. It beats a blank board,I guess:-)

(Heide) you're going to have to see FP on the big screen to see that little hole in his left ear. No, I can check it out in person in January since I'll never see FP on a big screen. Am already thinking about a series of pictures of earlobes as we move on from hands! ;-D Still, if the search brings you such pleasure in those wonderful little scenes again, then go to it! That does go without saying. I went back to the FP tape in the car yesterday too. Can't get enough of it. (Evelyn) if you enjoy this "Whine Fest"...who am I to spoil it? While you prefer Chardonnay, may I remind you of your published letter to Movieline. Don't you think that he's in London now and rehearsal has started for 3DOR? OK, recommence whining... ;-D

Evelyn) if you enjoy this "Whine Fest"...who am I to spoil it? (Karen)While you prefer Chardonnay, may I remind you of your published letter to Movieline. Ah...but that is productive "Whining" (Oops, I mean, Chardonnay):-D I put my name on the line for a couple of thousand (mil?)readers... for a cause:-) ~~~~ Sorry..to interrupt...keep going ... we could make a game out of this: "How Many Ways Can You Say That Colin Is Not Appreciated"

-it is just possible that neither Colin nor Stephen were actually available when the interviews were filmed - it is possible of course, and I expect there was also a reason why he was not shown on the Morning News programmes following the SIL Premiere in London, even though I personally saw him doing interviews!!!

Ann, do remember to close your tags, there's a good girl... ;-)

I did, I am sure!! re: "Whine Fest" and "recommence whining", (I won't do italics), I don't consider it whining, just sharing one's thoughts with good friends.

I don't consider it whining, just sharing one's thoughts with good friends. Quite so and we're here (Napa Valley) for support...anytime or place. About those tags, sometimes people use the wrong slash to close and then it won't work. It should be /i surrounded by <> OK? :-D

WARNING: My turn to "share my thoughts with friends" (formerly ,AKA "Whining") Will soon come.....won't tell you when or... what about...but you better be there with the Chardonnay :-D

I don't consider it whining, just sharing one's thoughts with good friends. Damn right Ann. Go on sharing please!

(Cymbeline) How many of us are there, anyhow? And does his agent know we're here begging for the chance to see him? (Heide), Moon? I'm surprised you haven't jumped in here yet. ;-) His agent is very aware of us. We have sent questions to him repeatedly about upcoming Firth projects and they NEVER answered them. We have given up on his agent. It is a shame when one considers the fact that the woman who created the Jonathan Firth Web site has frequent communications with JF agent and JF has forwarded a message to her via his manager. Colin has lots of very creative Web mistresses he could gracefully thank them, yet he does not. Why? I am sure they do not do it for his thanks, but his brother understood that it is very polite to do so. IMO, if his brother can do it...

(Karen)...are you sure that the Fever Pitch you are ordered is the one with Colin? There was another movie by the same name in the '70s or '80s with Ryan O'Neal that typically comes up in searches. Oh, my! I was over joyed as soon as I saw the title came up (I've been waiting for that moment for months). I did not even check to see if it was the one because I DID NOT KNOW THERE WAS ANOTHER ONE WITH THE SAME NAME! After I read your post and went back to reel site, there was nothing on this title any more, I don't know what's going on. Am I in a dream?? I've sent an e-mail to reel.com. Hopefully can get some anwsers soon. (Heide)I bought mine from a UK video store and had it shipped, then converted That's a real good idea! I found FP on blackstars UK site a while ago (now I'm not sure if it was FP with ODB :() and did not buy it because of PAL. I remember that a friend of mine who works in a college's language lab mentioned once, he could convert videos from PAL to NTSC or the other way around. Right now, just keep my fingers crossed...

(Moon)Colin has lots of very creative Web mistresses he could gracefully thank them, yet he does not.Why? I knew we could get one going.... REASONS WHY COLIN DOES NOT THANK HIS WEBSITE MANAGERS VIA AGENT... 1. He is in Italy when they arrive...and agent forgets...

The resemblance of some of the Firthettes with Paul is truly amazing! ;-D "You can't remember if life is shit because Arsenal is shit, or if it's the other way around." - Paul Ashworth - Replace "Arsenal" with "Miramax marketing", "Buena Vista distribution strategy", "Film industry" etc. etc., make your choice :-) Oh, and before you bite my nose off: I really like Paul.

Oh, no! Another Top 10 list! REASONS WHY COLIN DOES NOT THANK HIS WEBSITE MANAGERS VIA AGENT... 10) He does not have phone. 9) Too busy learning Italian. 8) Will has told him about his Web sites too and he does not thank him either. 7) Never seen them, Livia is always on the computer. 6) Much too busy buying new furniture. 5) Spends too much time trying to teach Livia the correct way to make California roll. 4) He will not leave his house since Helen Fielding has been hounding him outside his doorstep everyday. 3) He has been catching up on all the Flashman books, just in case! 2) He no longer speaks to his agent. 1) He is just one big **%#&&_(*)$#& dude. ;-D

No he does not want to make California roll, he is not Geo-centric. I meant make a California roll (#5).

Moon...You did it again. LOLROTF How about 11. Still trying to figure out how to mount the stereo speakers, so they don't fall on his nose. 12. Is busy learning Iowa accent "for the next time"...

I think it's good to share thoughts (aka whine)...and even a stiff upper lip deserves an occasional wobble! :-) Evelyn, you quite frighten me....that warning sounds as though you've got a mega thought-sharing session stored up for us! I'll shut up about MLSF/Miramax and Buena Vista. Your comparison with Paul is very apt, Renate, but Paul has my every sympathy!! BTW is MLSF opening in Australia soon? I ask out of genuine interest and am pleased you'll be getting the chance to see it!

Meant to add that one of the Sunday papers (browsed, didn't buy) had an article on the new Blackadder movie, of which they'd had a preview. The article said it was "feature length" which I think is wrong (although �3 million for 30 minutes seems a lot). The theatre will have a capacity of 2500 and the movie is expected to be a major draw and to be seen by millions. "Blackadder" is definitely an "Event". The movie features a time machine and one of the visits is to the time of Elizabeth I. Baldrick also m nages to accidently kill off all the dinosaurs.

Moon, you've done it again. Am particularly fond of #7 and #10. Can't you just visualize that: Livia spending hours on the computer. Could really make a man hate the technology. Good selection, Renate, and no one (not even Evelyn) is going to bite anyone's head off. ;-D (have some more whine) A Blackadder article! How did I miss it? Pretty soon, there are bound to be items "placed" in the newspapers about the 3DOR cast. :-D

BTW is MLSF opening in Australia soon? Hi Bethan, the last date I heard was 11 November. My guess is that will be in the cities but HOPEFULLY it will spread out to the other areas soon after. My contact at my local Art Cinema is away today but I will phone him again tomorrow. My closest city is about two hours away and I will certainly be making the trip as soon as I see it advertised. Then if it comes closer I'll get to see it a few more times. Cathey

Another reason why Colin does not thank his Website managers via agent: * Every time his agent wants to send out the email, AOL breaks down

(Heide) But I wouldn't say Jeremy Northam's career is ahead of Colin's. An Ideal Husband's given him a little edge but the man has made some bad film choices. I don't mean to re-start the whining, but this comment made me crack up. I like JN and he's made some good films, but did anyone see Mimic? I sat through the entire thing wondering what JN was thinking when he took that role and how could one imagine a movie about giant sized cockroaches would be anything other than ludicrous?!? (Karen) I was going to tell you all about the directorial/writing/acting abilities of Mike Binder, as displayed in The Sex Monster, but will hold off until you're all in a better mood. I know I just said I wasn't going to whine, but since Karen mentioned this it reminded me I had been meaning to post about The Sex Monster. I'm hoping that my negative reaction to this film was partly due to general crabbiness on my part, but I pretty much despised it. The combination of unappealing, self indulgent subject matter, unlikeable characters, poor acting and weak dialogue pretty much killed the film IMHO. I hope Mike Binder has a better film in him than this one! I refuse to be depressed abo t Londinium as we know CF can shine in any material. There - how's that for a positive spin :-)?

Newbie question here--who is Mike Binder and what is The Sex Monster? Is the latter a bad movie directed by the former who has now gone on to direct Londinium?

Yes, Mike Binder wrote, directed and starred in The Sex Monster and is doing the same for Londinium, which also stars Mariel Hemingway. This is his most recent work and, like Jana, I was not impressed. In TSM, Binder plays a Woody Allen, nebbishy character. He's married to Mariel Hemingway (totally unbelievable as a hair stylist) but wants to inject some excitement into his sex life by talking his wife into a menage a trois with another woman. Like a Woody Allen character, he keeps picking away at her refusal. (you want to swat the little pest) Finally (and under the influence of lots of alcohol), she breaks down when a fellow hair dresser (who has the hots for her) is over for dinner and they all have a wild evening. BTW, with the exception of some kissing, there is absolutely no sex/skin shown. But the problem is that the wife and her lover discard Binder; have no use for him (who would?) She turns into The Sex Monster, not able to keep her hands off women. As a comedy, it's a very lightweight sex farce. From the opening sequence with the credits and the disco-dancing women, it will have you shaking your head. I can't imagine how Binder will look next to *real* actors like Colin, if even Mariel Hemingway makes him look bad. Cymbeline, if you go to this url, you will find a synopsis of Londinium and some pics. There are also publicity pics of Hemingway and Binder from TSM on page one of that grouping. http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/london3.html

Good News here....Nia Long's new film "The Best Man" was the #1 Box Office hit in the country....took in $9.1 Mill. Heide, if Nia can bring SLOW along to half of that...Go Nia!! Jana ...you didn't like JN with those little glasses on. (Bethan)Evelyn, you quite frighten me....that warning sounds as though you've got a mega thought-sharing session stored up for us! And when I do....I want everyone to be kind....:-)))) SLOW will open in a month....the next time someone calls the distrib would you ask if they have any interviews (print/television )in the pipeline? This is a new company...they need help. Likewise 3 DOR....there should be some interviews soon. The Donmar publicist is v. good...remember last Feb...I think Colin gave two interviews... (his last!). ~~~~~~~ Don't let me stifle the thought sharing....I should really just scroll down..I just hate to see our board degenerate to only that Bad manners on my part. Like Bethan said: I'm a member of the "Stiff Upper Lip Club" Didn't mean to offend...AAA.

(Cymbeline) Picture me at the dining room table. I stamp my foot. I throw my napkin down. I groan petulantly. "Oh, I want to see all his videos!" And down at the other end sit the ogrish distributors, smugly saying, "And yet I am unmoved," and stalking off to their study, slamming the door and leaving me with unendurable feelings of Firthlessness. My, my, what a good laugh! I do hope you've e-mailed Heide/Karen by now. Soon you'll be purring "a whole campful of soldiers!" ;-D BTW, I think the Dodgers will come back to Brooklyn when they rebuild the polo grounds. (Renate) Replace "Arsenal" with "Miramax marketing", "Buena Vista distribution strategy", "Film industry" etc. etc., make your choice :-) Ooh, you've learned my trick. I do that with a certain NY football team that's getting really good at blowing a lead and losing the game in the final seconds. I also find myself shouting "Oy! Number 9! You're a donkey!" whenever the kicker (#9) misses a field goal. It's very soothing :-D Kudos for the top ten list, Moon! LOL! But what happened with #1? Attack of potty-mouth? :-P I can readily picture ODB with his nose in a Flashman book, no error (hee hee)! However, I still don't think the Firths are active with computers or the internet (well, perhaps she is now--wasn't in March, right Gi?). Stars and movie distributors are catching on to the free publicity, but our Colin's never been one to chase publicity. And we know his sentiments about 'too much information' being available on he internet. (Evelyn) 11. Still trying to figure out how to mount the stereo speakers, so they don't fall on his nose. Which reminds me...remember those pictures taken when he had the cut on his nose? KJArt and Karen posted a couple at (I think) the 'drool help' topic. You can clearly see a pierced left ear in one of them.

(Eileen) Soon you'll be purring "a whole campful of soldiers!" Yes! And "Let's go see him before he's dressed. Aaaah! Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!" That having been giggled, we continue with an immensely earnest disquisition on forms of publicity. To wit --- (Eileen continues) And we know his sentiments about 'too much information' being available on the internet. To which I reply (not to Eileen but to CF or his agent or whoever is not responding): Internet. Schminternet. The medium is not the message. The message is the message. And the message has been available in various forms since Debrett's Peerage firth came out. Fanzines, papparazzi with zoom lenses, gaggles of shrieking girls have been around far longer than cyberspace. As with all human enterprises, it is the use made of it that is the key. Which is better, to download a P&P snappy from a website or have a photographer in a tree outside your bedroom window? All the CF sites I've seen are well-done, respectful, and clearly state that their purpose is to thank him for the work he's done and express our admiration of it. At least one specifically warns against papparazzi. So he meets with a few tongue-tied fans after a performance who come off looking a little fluttered. We're not professional actors are we? But neither are we Leonardo groupies. Dumbbelles don't run sites like these, and without fans where is an actor? Sitting in the unemployment office, that's where he is. So I'll gladly lay my heart at his feet, but I would appreciate the occasional thankyou note. And less fuzzy thinking.

A Blackadder article! How did I miss it (Karen) Sunday Express...perhaps there's no on-line version (no loss!) Hi Bethan, the last date (MLSF) I heard was 11 November. Thanks Cathey! Hope it gets a good press. Londinium....well, the new positive me thinks it may not be too bad. Mike Binder also directed "American Gothic� which I thought was very good (but he didn't write or star) Sometimes good supporting actors can save, or part save a film, if the material is okay-ish. Maybe Binder won't be in it too much and didn't the scene in Little Venice feature Colin with the two gals?. And London was bathed in glorious weather when they were shooting, so it should look good. My guess is that Colin was looking for London based work at the time....probably just wanted to go home at night to his new house and wife...and who could blame him? :-)

I've just been to the Londinium pages and am very surprised to find no signature, no webmaster, nothing to identify the author... As to why HE doesn't thank anyone: I think there's only one Jonathan Firth site, so naturally he may feel flattered and it's easy to pass on a word... but there are so many different sites for Colin that - assuming he knows more about them than just the fact of their existence - he may feel a little overwhelmed, and not necessarily in the positive way. Quite honestly, we know that the chap is a bit (???) reserved with strangers (Hello, Mr D!!!;-)) and perhaps undecided about the whole business. Maybe in h s view we don't deserve any thanks. For what? Why should he thank us? He worked successfully before the arrival of the net publicity. He doesn't owe us anything. He hasn't hired us. If we want to play with the html, that's our choice. Don't let his lack of response affect you. Enjoy the actor and his opus. Forget Colin the private man - something tells me we may never really get through to him. And now despise me if you dare. ;-)

(Arami) Quite honestly, we know that the chap is a bit (???) reserved with strangers (Hello, Mr D!!!;-)) and perhaps undecided \ ... \ Why should he thank us? He worked successfully before the arrival of the net publicity. He doesn't owe us anything. He hasn't hired us. If we want to play with the html, that's our choice. Good point, Arami. I find that all my reasons for logging on are selfish ones ... I am so delighted to meet with so many others with whom I have so many things in common (es . exquisite taste in actors) and am so grateful that they are always ready to share the goodies. The only motives I might have for furthering the DB's career are frankly so he'll produce more goodies that we can share (I sometimes feel like an evangelist sharing the gospel of St. Firth!! :-D). If trumpeting his worth to others while leaving him alone to pursue this worthy goal is the best way to get him to create new goodies, so be it. Don't let his lack of response affect you. Enjoy the actor and his opus. Oh, I do, I do. The way I see it, as long as he remains a professional actor (and please Lord, let that be a long time ...), all he owes me is the effort to produce a good performance. ...And now despise me if you dare. ;-)Indeed, I do not dare ... 8-D

I've just been to the Londinium pages and am very surprised to find no signature, no webmaster, nothing to identify the author... I thought this blurb at the top answered a few of your questions. "The Latest on Londinium Thanks to Karen R for the text and the pictures" Of course, you know it is Murph's site and if you follow the links backwards, her name would appear somewhere. (Eileen) remember those pictures taken when he had the cut on his nose?...You can clearly see a pierced left ear in one of them. I sure remember the pics and have studied them. Can't see anything. This is going to have to be an IRL assignment. (Cymbeline) The medium is not the message. The message is the message. Hold the presses! I love this one. Start printing the t-shirts. (is McLuhan still alive?) Which is better, to download a P&P snappy from a website or have a photographer in a tree outside your bedroom window? Am thinking about this one. ;-D

(Karen) I sure remember the pics and have studied them. Can't see anything. Here's the URL. It was the pic actually used by the Telegraph, not the one we liked better (where he's looking off to his left). Telegraph Picture Check out ODB's left earlobe. I can see it better in MSE 5 than in my version of Netscape. I'm with you, KJ. Frankly, I'd rather see Colin working than surfing around the internet. The way I see it, as long as he remains a professional actor (and please Lord, let that be a long time ...) Amen!

That Telegraph picture is divine. Makes you just wanna run your tongue over the computer monitor. *lick, lick* *nibble, nibble* (ewek! cough, sneeze, sputter! Gotta remember to dust that monitor a little more often) ;) btw- does anyone else think his left ear is double pireced?

Yup...double pierced ....clearer in Ex. 4. than Netscape. (Pack a magnifying glass for January, Karen)

(Arami)Don't let his lack of response affect you. I absolutely agree. Of course it would be great if he showed some interest in the sites but I think it�s really not fair to expect him to thank for them. What he�s prepared to give us is his work, that�s all. But note, his lack of response does not necessarily mean that he is not grateful or happy for the sites! I�m sure he�s aware of them and that he�s happy for them as well as having fans. It�s simply his style not to take any contact and I believe he has his reasons for this.

While I enjoy a whinefest as much as anyone,let us ponder the fact that Emma was JN's breakout role. Now let's see, JN is the love interest, in about a quarter of the scenes, definitely second banana to the title character of Emma as played by the media Gwynnie. Now let's analyze BJD. MD is the love interest, will hopefully get a quarter of the scenes, and will be second banana to the title character hopefully played by a media darling so that the film will get a lot of pubicity. Colin plays MD and will get the recognition that his fans want for him even if we are not sure if he wants it himself. I think he does want it even if he will not admit it. My wish would be a little fame would open up more and better roles for him. He could start turning down great roles because he would be so busy working which makes his stalwart fans deliriously happy. Of course this is all wishful thinking based on the hope that he plays MD and that BJD will be a monster hit.

I second all you said here, Sue :-)

Of course, you know it is Murph's site and if you follow the links backwards, her name would appear somewhere. I know it's Murph's site from her unmistakable style, but I couldn't find any links back. Maybe I was drunk, I don't know... I prefer the "brow & nose job" photo with him looking straight at us. The other one looks like he's trying to check out the hole in his own earlobe without a mirror. :-)

(Arami)The other one looks like he's trying to check out the hole in his own earlobe without a mirror. Perfect! I agree. I always thought the other one looks as though he's about to swivel his eyes straight and look right at me--and blow me a kiss of course.

Re: Ear Piercing: Good angled light shows the upper left one: (From Murph's prior Front Page) and the Right One, earring and all: (Obviously in his younger days in the Chatsky role -- Thanks to meluchie!)

Courtesy of MarkG, here's a picture that accompanied The Times review of Flashman and the Tiger. I think Colin would do well in such a uniform. ;-D Thank you, Mark.

Hmmm...I've developed a soft spot for Flashy (even if CF doesn't play the part! But always hoping....) By a strange coincidence I'd ordered the latest Flashman from the Times Bookshop (an early Christmas present to myself!) and it arrived today. Three stories in one. I've had a quick skim through, and I must say that Flashy is definitely becoming an old softy, doting on his wife (and she on him) and being willing to spend his entire fortune to save his grand-daughter's happiness. The first story (and by f r the longest) returns to the days of his youth, when he still had a wandering eye! Now, some news of Bridget Jones (the book)...I hope. If you check amazon.co.uk (not amazon.com) you'll see that there's a new BJ novel listed..."Bridget Jones: the Edge of Reason". Listed for publication on November 19th, price �12.99, with 20% off. Can be ordered now. ISBN 0 33036734 X. I rang Waterstones and they've also got it listed for November 19. They are checking with the publishers for me. There have been some false sightings of the sequel....but there are more details here than I've seen before. Could be the one. Will post at #80 when have a spare moment. BTW how do you scan onto an internet site? We have a scanner and I don't know how to use it! That pierced ear...surely not both! Perhaps it's a reverse image photo, you know, when you get an identical image, but in one, the right hand will be holding a cigarette, while in the other it's the left hand.

Bethan, first learn how to use your scanner to get the image into a usable .jpg or .gif format. Then we'll figure out how to get it onto the internet because in order to post here, an image must have an http:// address. If you don't have your own webspace, then you can email the image to any of us who do (me, Arami, Renate, Marcia, etc.) and we can upload it and provide you with the address for posting purposes or just post it ourselves. If you have any questions, email any of us.

That pierced ear...surely not both! Both, I fear... ;-)

Bethan at the bottom of the page at cf.com I found this: If you want to support Spring, join Visto. With a (free) registration through this link: http://www.colinfirth.com you help Spring with a small contribution. Why? Spring, is a private and non-profit place, which hosts all these wonderful drool boards. I believe you can set up a page there for any html. Your html, it is worth doing. Remember, once you are at cf.com go to the bottom and click on Visto. And that goes for the other Firthettes with scanners. :-D

Hi: I just found a neat interview with CF that is new to me: http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Theater/5640/interviews/shakespeare/firth.html Has a lot of good insights. I have one quote from it on my news page that I thought was telling: "Firth, 38, now lives in London -- "the pickings are richer for me there" -- and is quite content with his place in the cinema. "I didn't want [fame] at the beginning because I just thought it would never happen to me," he explains, "and I don't know if that's really the best thing that could happen either. I think that sometimes being slightly marginalized can be a durable position. Flavors of the month are high turnover whereas people who are kind of second choice are always there." Murph P.S. Karen, are you posting the boxer shorts picture here? I bet a lot of people will want to see it!

Boxer shorts, coming right up~ courtesy of Murph, although processed in Chicago ;-D

Isn't he awfully thin? Those of you who've seen the whole film can tell better. Should we be worried?

Naw... He wears lots of bulky and loosely layered clothing in most scenes, topped off by a leather jacket. The man's a clothes hanger. ;-D

Murph - Thanks for the interview tip. Well-read--oh, joy! Hard to know what the interviewer meant by that (we know he'd never read Jane Austen before 1994), but if it's true, it's the icing on the cake for me. You know, I only watch his movies for the articles.

Speaking of Murph you have till Monday to go to her sight and vote for it at the vote for the best British Theater. They give you several things to vote for but one of them is the best site for a British actor. We need all the votes for CF's site we can get.

My family is Dutch, Portuguese, Italian I had no idea he was Italian and Portuguese (Gi?). I bet he told Livia right away, I am also latin, cara. :-D Thanks for the interview Murph! And Karen for letting me wake up with Colin this morning. ;-)

(Moon) Thanks for the interview Murph! And Karen for letting me wake up with Colin this morning. ;-) Cheating on DH, are we? We want the details. ;-D

Cheating on DH, are we? We want the details. ;-D I could never do it without your help. ;-D

And I've got GOOD News and BAD News on Londinium. First the BAD News. Londinium will not surface until next fall. This spring, they will be submitting it to the Toronto Film Fest, which is held in September. I will have the GOOD News later since I have to work on it quite a bit. (nasty, aren't I)

Thanks for all of the pictures, everybody. Karen, do you have one of Paul in his grey boxers, one with his thighs. Thanks for the interview link, Murph. There's no getting around it: Colin Firth is a charming man. Articulate and well-read, he talks with passion and lucidity and is strong but unaffected. What a guy! Charming *sigh*, but the rest of the adjectives are pretty appealing too. Sounds like the writer is a real fan - one of us, perhaps? I haven't read the posts for a while. Come on, everybody, cheer up. Since there is the remotest chance that CF or his nearest and dearest might read our comments, we don't want to depress him into early retirement. Londinium coming to the Toronto Film Festival? I've lived near T.O. (as we fondly call it) for decades and have never gone yet. Guess who's going to be there next fall? Unless I find out that DB has only 10 minutes on screen.

Londinium coming to the Toronto Film Festival? If (1) it is ready...only a rough cut so far, (2) it really is submitted, and (3) Toronto accepts it. Let's not start any rumors or runs on hotels in T.O. ;-D

(Lynda)Guess who's going to be there next fall? Unless I find out that DB has only 10 minutes on screen. LOL...some of us are going to London in January...paying an exhorbitant fee to see him at The Dome in Blackladder for ten minutes...**if we're lucky**!!

Well, when you're in London, pop into Waterstones! The publishers have confirmed that the sequel to Bridget Jones Diary....Bridget Jones:The Edge of Reason....will be in the bookshops in three weeks on November 19th. It seems to have been brought forward (was going on sale early next year). The novel continues from where BJD finished and is based on "Persuasion".

Karen, what is the good news? Thanks Bethan! BJD was probably pushed up because the film is still nowhere near pre-production and they want to get the media interest back on Bridget. I am curious to see how she will carry on the Persuasion theme with her characters.

Mark will ask Bridget to marry him but Bridget will have doubts because Mark on close acquaintance has proved to be a seriously flawed new man (doesn't do the washing up, won't push the trolley in Sainsbury's etc). Urged on by Jude and Shazzer, Bridget says "no". Mark, deeply hurt, goes to Japan and becomes even richer and more successful. Twelve months pass (seven years is too long). MD returns and their social paths cross. MD gets engaged to someone else, but in the nick of time realises that Bridget is his true love. Happy ending. They probably want to catch the Christmas sales, and (I hope) tie in with some announcement about the movie and casting!!! No doubt HF will be doing promotional interviews. Nonember will be interesting, 3DOR, SLOW, and hopefully an upsurge of interest in Mark Darcy! So Colin's got Dutch, Portugese, Italian blood??? Or does he mean his family have married Dutch etc. "Firth" is 100% Yorkshire, and for some reason the combination of the name "Colin" and Methodist missionary associations always made me think of Scotland.

Highlights from a FAX that the bank sent me :Taken from the trade magazine INTERNATIONAL SCREENING New UK Distributor Optimum Releasing Packaging Short Films with Features: . An interview with the marketing manager of Optimum reveals that the company plans to put short films with features. ...giving them a distinguishing trait. �The audience is paying to see a particular genre, so we look for a short that will complement the film .� �An Evil Cradling� is based on poetry inspired by Brian Keenan�s experience as a hostage...powerful stuff that suits a strong feature such as �The Secret Laughter of Women.� He says they plan to use various marketing tools...adverts in the printed press,cinema trailers,poster campaigns on the Underground. �We are also using festivals to platform the films. The Secret Laughter of Women will be screened at the London Film Festival.� ~~~~~~~ They are the first distributor to do this (short films +features). I wonder if they know Colin�s connection with Brian Keenan (�Hostages�) However I notice that in the program of the LFF, SLOW is being shown with �Akbar�s Cheetah�. However, I am sure the Festival organizers selected their own short films. The article goes on to give the background of the company. But they seem aggressive and creative in their approach to distribution.Also as a start-up company with limited cash flow, they won�t want to leave their film on a shelf! , I think. Karen and Bethan have been in contact with them. ~~~~~~ I know this isn't much...but hey, I get a rush when I see SLOW and screening on the same line:-)The bank is impressed with the company, I think....and we're still friends. I told them they would miss me!!

Wow! Suddenly the board springs out of depression! (No pun intended) I loved reading the interview, thank you Murph. Portuguese blood, the man says! I am all astonishment! :-) The Toronto Film Fest - I might try to go for my new (first) niece's first birthday! ;-)

Bethan I like your BJ/Persuasion synopsis. Looks very real. Am looking forwards to reading the book.

(Gi) Portuguese blood, the man says! I am all astonishment! :-) Better go in January and ask him about that branch of the family tree. You might be related!!!

My long lost cousin! I'll try to do that ;-)

Kissin' cuzzin? Go to it!

(Bethan) Happy ending. That doesn't describe the look on Helen's face when she talked about the sequel. She did keep mentioning how some times love just doesn't work out because of those "flaws" you cited. Perhaps you should've collaborated with Helen, Bethan. Would have gone to press a lot sooner. Your version IS very Persuasion-ish. How interesting, Evelyn, about Optimum Releasing's strategy of shorts plus a feature. Beats watching "Toy Story 2" previews!! The Brian Keenan/Colin angle. We probably won't get that "An Evil Cradling" short here...ever (although the book sits about 6 feet from me now).

What gets you excited gets me excited, Evelyn. SLOW being pushed as a "strong feature". Great news. And I like that Keenan/Colin connection. Symbiosis. (Gi) My long lost cousin! I'll try to do that ;-) Perilously close to incest, Gi. Thank God you've got Antonio.

Excuse me, before you all get carried away again (as you usually do, anyway... ;-P)- can we just get (at least) this thing right, please? He didn't appear to say anything about his blood. He just said "my family". :-)

If you're interested, there is a site you can vote for your favourite man. Can't imagine who you would chose ....;-) URL is www.freevote.com/booth/ladyviola. Colin is nowhere near winning at this stage, but maybe November is a chance if we all "go to it". You can vote up to five times per day. Cathey

Cathey, if just type the full URL, with http etc., it becomes an active link: http://www.freevote.com/booth/ladyviola Wow, in the last 30 hours or so Colin went up from fourth to third place, and from 504 to 1452 - no - 1457 now ;-)) Every voter is allowed 5 votes a day.

Thanks Renate. Hope we can get him to number 1 either this month or next. Cathey

Renate - thanks for the tip about the Hall of Fame. I've made my five votes for the day. Firthettes! Rally to the polls! Maybe we can't get him to first place in Oct., but I bet we can get to 2000 votes, and in Nov we can start again.

Thanks, Cathey. I've got the site bookmarked. Now, dumb question...Who is Adrian Paul?

A little food for thought on this Fan thing - item posted on 72

Thanks for the link to that article, Murph. I swear I read bits of the last paragraph before: "It was the atmosphere of doing a play and the relationships you form and the exhilaration, the stakes are very high, you're all in it together. If it works, then joy. If it doesn't, then you go down together and it's an intoxicating thing. It's like a drug. But it's not something you can have every time. That's the thing that hooks you. In fact, it's a very distressing thing to see people who spend three years in drama school and being given these extraordinary values. My drama school, particularly, considered its job to produce fresh blood with a real vision who would change theater and bring values back to the theater. We were all really fired up with this stuff and then you go out and it's "Now try and get an agent." It was just making phone calls begging somebody to see you, seeing if you can do a walk-on in the police miniseries. Seeing these people that had been given this vision of the Holy Grail suddenly crawling to be recognized just for the simple practicalities of earning a living is terrible." Too long to be a stock quote from ODB, IMO. Where was it? The 'Good Taste' article, perhaps? Does anyone remember? Or am I suffering from that syndrome known as "CF Overload?"

(Cymbeline) Renate - thanks for the tip about the Hall of Fame. That was Cathey, not me. I only gave a hand on the geeky side. BTW, November may be not the best month to vote him to the top - too many Firthettes and Firthians away from their keyboards, because they are in London. ;-) (Karen) Now, dumb question...Who is Adrian Paul? Was my first reaction, too. But now ......... I think he is the "Highlander".

Phaedra is selling the US Fever Pitch Poster. Here's the scoop: To order: Please send a check to Phaedra Cinema 5455, Wilshire Blvd., #1403, Los Angeles, CA 90036 One poster: $25 including handling and shipping. Each additional poster (any titles) add $15 ea. No Phone Calls Please! Go to Phaedra's site, then to the Fever Pitch page. You gotta see the link! Not the one from the home page, but the one from the FP page. It's a classic!! ;-D http://www.phaedracinema.com/ And BTW, this is a reasonable price for the poster.

(Bethan) They probably want to catch the Christmas sales, and (I hope) tie in with some announcement about the movie and casting!!! I think you're on to something here, Bethan. Could it be that Colin is holding out on committing to Mark Darcy till he sees how the BJD sequel does? Before an actor signs on for a part that involves possibly committing to a sequel, I imagine he would want to have an idea of how his character will develop. Perhaps the possibility of a larger role for MD in the sequel would appeal to him. (Eileen) Too long to be a stock quote from ODB, IMO. Where was it? The 'Good Taste' article, perhaps? I think you're right, Eileen; several things from that interview sounded like comments in the Good Taste article. Or more precisely, looks like the Good Taste article was culled from this longer interview. Hmmm, possible Portuguese and Italian bloodlines? So that's where he gets those beautiful dark eyes:-)

Latest on Londinium Mike Binder completed the edit on the first rough cut of Londinium, which was screened October 21 by a select few. The movie was pronounced very good. Running a bit too long, it will undergo some fine tuning and trimming. Colin's performance was deemed "absolutely magnificent" and "subtle and nuanced." In the role of Alan, a very cultured and thoughtful character, Colin is simultaneously "strong and acerbic and yet undergoes a tender transformation that is thoroughly believable. He also looks every inch a matinee idol." Stephen Fry plays a psychiatrist who handled a number of labor relations cases for Alan. Alan is not keen on his wife's insistence on seeing a psychiatrist to discuss their flagging sex life, so he recommends Fry, who is wonderfully and hilariously uncomfortable discussing the topic of-- s-e-x. The scenes are few, but choice, and the two play very well off each other. Distribution Plans: This will occur after a finished version is screened for distributors. The producers also believe the film should be released in the fall and have targeted the Toronto Film Festival, as a possible launch pad. (Note: The Toronto selection process does not begin until March/April.)

which was screened October 21 by a select few Karen, was this a focus group (i.e., were these 'regular joes' or industry folks)? Colin's performance was deemed "absolutely magnificent" and "subtle and nuanced." /.../ Colin is simultaneously "strong and acerbic and yet undergoes a tender transformation that is thoroughly believable. He also looks every inch a matinee idol." YEESSSSSSsssss! Now let's hope everyone else thinks so. Thanks for the info, Karen. XXOO, dearie. IMO the 'bad' news isn't all that bad. What's a little wait, as long as a release looks possible--favorable, even?

(Eileen) was this a focus group No, it was a handful of agents, managers and cast.

Super Sleuth Strikes Again!! Thanks Karen for the "Londinium" News...:-)))

FP Page is terrific....exciting to see Murph's Page as Colin's Link #2. But the first link didn't work for me and Karen...pl. tell them how to spell "available".

Well done Karen....what would we do without you and Evelyn and Ann, all our star SuperSleuthers. I can quite cheerfully wait for "Londinium" if it's going to be good! What's ten months anyway? I really liked your Optimum Releasing marketing strategy fax as well, Evelyn. Will comment later on both the above, but real life calls at the moment!

Hi, according to my copy of Empire Magazine, the reviewer for SLOW has some nice comments for Colin but only gives the film ** out of *****. Will type some excerpts later.

Colin's performance was deemed "absolutely magnificent", Karen who was it who actually makes this comment, sorry if I am being a bit thick.

and sorry about the grammar!!

The scenes are few, but choice, and the two play very well off each other. Those two wonderful actors together will be such a treat! He also looks every inch a matinee idol." I have never heard anyone say this about him in print. And, at the ripe old age of 39! :-D (Eileen) was this a focus group (Karen,), No, it was a handful of agents, managers and cast. I wonder if Colin went. Do you know where they screened it?

It would have been screened in LA and, when he said cast, my guess is that it would be Binder's friends who appear in his films, like Mariel Hemingway and Chris Lawford, perhaps others. I can ask specifically if Colin was there, but I think not, otherwise he would have told me. He know who/what I'm interested it! I thought the "matinee idol" reference was odd as well and did question him about it and from that I got a lot more detail about Colin's performance. To me it seemed incongrous given the first press release's description of Colin. To me, that didn't describe a matinee idol part. Besides, it's such an old-fashioned term. Reminds me of "Purple Rose of Cairo" or maybe I have Woody Allen on the brain (and some people will understand why). ;-D

Murph has posted the Empire review of SLOW and the picture of Colin as Matthew. We haven't seen it before and boy, oh boy, do I love Colin in that kind of lighting, like the Paul Ashworth picture I posted a little while ago. Here's the link: http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/slow/slow.html

(Karen)... the picture of Colin as Matthew. We haven't seen it before and boy, oh boy, do I love Colin in that kind of lighting [!!!] And lots of beautiful red curls and those eyes the color of ripe chestnuts. Best way to start the weekend. Today in town I kept seeing him--the guy leaning against a building across the street with dark hair and a shirt just the blue color in the SLOW wall picture, Tom Birken driving a van in the oncoming lane, my house painter wearing a (white) Henley and singing in a nice baritone. Is there any treatment for this? I sincerely hope not.

(Bethan)....what would we do without you and Evelyn and Ann, all our star Super Sleuthers. Thank you Bethan...undeservedly you have included me in illustrious company indeed. But after SLOW premieres I'm out of the "CF sleuthing business"...no kidding.( And out of the autograph business as well):-))

Thanks Murph! I agree with you Karen, that light is so becoming. As for the reviewer: Fresh from his cracking turn as the dastardly villain in Shakespeare in Love, Colin Firth must have had enough of grimy England and decided that a brief sojourn to the idyllic French countryside was the perfect antidote This person does not know when this film was made.

My last vote brought him to 1573

Obsession with ODB has released the juices of -uh - creativity in many of us. Dedicated Firthettes have given us poetry on Murph's site and a wealth of fiction posted in many places on the net. But, as far as I know, we have not yet had a song to rally around Since we are celebrating our favorite's elevation to the status of matinee idol, I bring to your attention the fact that in 1925 (the heyday of the M.I. and about the time of Relative Values?) Irving Berlin wrote a beautifully romantic song called Always. You may know it. Here is a an apt adaptation. I wasn't sure where to post it, but this seems like the place. Those of you moved join the Firthette chorus and sing along under his window, please join in. We'll be loving you - always. Long for something new - always. When the raves you've planned Turn out to be panned, It's editing - we understand - always, always. Release dates - not a prayer - always. That's when we'll be there - always. Not for just a show, Not for just a run, Not for just a flick, But always.

well, swell! The first time I checked the posting, it loaded the pic and now it isn't!

If the above picture goes away, we can add the Tripod site to the "Don't Use for Posting Purposes" List. Sorry. :-(

I know this one will stay put, Cymbeline:

Hi, I have just received my TOTAL Film magazine (UK) they give SLOW 2* but it is not a very good review for either Colin or the film but who cares what the critics think, it is only one man's opinion. It is not a very long review and I will type it out if anyone wants me to and there is a small picture of Colin in bed with Nimi, very reminicent of the one with Ruth Gemmell in Fever Pitch but the picture is very small.

(Evelyn)But after SLOW premieres I'm out of the "CF sleuthing business"...no kidding.( And out of the autograph business as well):-)) Evelyn, that sounds ominous indeed!:-(

Matinee idol (according to Cassell's Dictionary).." very handsome actor, esp. popular with women" ! Ann, I don't think I'd pay too much attention to the "Empire" and "Total Film" reviews. They're the sort of mags that give "Big Daddy", "There's something about Mary" and "Austin Powers" 5 stars. Very much geared to the male under 25 audience. I don't think SLOW is their kind of film, or Colin their type of actor. Their definition of "turgid" is probably too much conversation. One thing I dislike about reviews (and reviews can make or break a film) is that they are not representative ( completely male dominated, the Star Wars generation), as taste and interest vary considerably across gender and age. (I'll bet the Guardian and Independent will trash SLOW!) I'm just pleased that SLOW is being released and that Optimum Releasing have an energetic marketing strategy! But they'll have to find the women...some pics of Colin wouldn't go amiss! 3DOR opens soon. I was listening to a radio programme "The Front Row" and apparently "King Lear" with Nigel Hawthorne, which was hailed as a major theatrical event, has received "bruisingly bad" reviews...both performance and production. Most "star" actors are being felled by the Londo theatre critics...Alan Rickman, Liam Neeson, Jude Law, Rufus Sewell, have all recently have bad to v. bad reviews. Colin has done very well!

Fantastic news on Londinium. Next fall is fine with me too as long as we get DQ somewhere in between. The news is out there. Just takes a lot of ingenuity and a little time. I'm grateful Karen and the other ladies share it all with this lazy lout. Matinee idol sounds rather old fashioned. Reminds me or Rudolf Valentino, Clark Gable and Errol Flynn. I do like this...Colin is simultaneously "strong and acerbic and yet undergoes a tender transformation that is thoroughly believable Sounds like what I've been waiting for. Let's see how long this euphoria lasts. ;-) Cymbeline, I love your song: When the raves you've planned Turn out to be panned, It's editing - we understand - always, always. LOL!! Not thinking of ATA were you? I hope you share more of your creativity with us. Between you and Moon's Top Ten lists we can get our own variety show going.

Ann, please post the Total Film review here. (copy and paste) Bethan, I agree with you about Empire magazine. It is definitely geared toward the young (brain-on-pause) crowd. Look at the covers! And all the space given to Leonardo Di Caprio!! SLOW is not its kind of film. However, there are elements of a serious review here. He did recognize Colin's strong performance, did he not? I would be concerned that the filmmakers had nothing new to say despite a seemingly novel storyline. They have apparently descended into conventionality. I too saw the headlines about Hawthorne's King Lear. They are getting battered. Speaking of Top 10 Lists, I have another one Mari wrote that I'll post in a bit.

Hope Londinium lives up to this terrific start. Thanks, Karen. Re: the Empire magazine review. I can live with reviews like that when they point out that Colin gives a "witty, charismatic performance." (What was CF but charismatic in MLSF and P&P, electrifying in the latter, actually.) This is far better than a rave for the movie and a pan for ODB. And it points out that he is the best thing in the film. That is usualy the case with Colin's films, isn't it. Now if we could just see him giving a great lead performance in a great film that gets terrific reviews and mak s lots of money, we'll all die happy. Thanks for the song, Cymbeline. It's a sweet song anyway and you reflect my feelings perfectly. I love his acting period, (and his beautiful dark eyes and lovely mouth and his walk and...), no matter how bad the film. BTW, I am watching Lost Empires right now and I don't think Colin's voice has ever been more beautiful than in this series. I have to find out how to put the narration on an audio tape. He is an absolute treat to listen to in LE. My one concern about seeing his performance in 3DOR is not hearing his lovely British accent. Why could the play not been reset in London for this run? Is its American setting essential to its themes? I am sure there are architects in the UK.

Here is TOTAL Film review for SLOW. 2* "Unmarried Nigerian mother Nimi(Long) works in the south of France. Hoe own mother is keen for her to wed the local vicar, but Nimi's son Sammy (Roberts)has other ideas. The 8year-old boy has just met English ex-pat writer, Matthew (Firth), the creator of Sammy's idol, comic-strip action hero Saracen. Surely he'd make a much more suitable stepfather? Schwabach's feature debdut is a brightly coloured yet pedestrian love story, which meanders along until its crudely made climax. The fairytale relationship between Nimi and Matthew follows a disappointingly predictable trajectory, with Firth giving an anaemic performance in a poorly written role. For a more perceptive cross-cultural romance, rent My Son The Fanatic instead." Talking of bad reviews Bethan, I have never seen such universally bad ones as Anna Friel's new Movie "Mad Cows " is getting, worse film of the year is what the ES said. No stars in The Daily Mail and a bad review in the Times on Thursday.

(Lynda) Why could the play not been reset in London for this run? Is its American setting essential to its themes? I am sure there are architects in the UK. Which one of the UK reviewers used the term "American diaper drama" to describe 3DOR. Apparently, our fixation on childhood experiences/trauma is unique or at least not prevalent in the UK. ;-D

with Firth giving an anaemic performance This seems rather the opposite of the Empire review which called him a "self-confident outsider" and "witty, charismatic." I suppose one can be those things, while being at the same time anemic... ;-p

Thank you Ann for the review. We are all going to love SLOW...and everyone is going to see it as many times as they can. It's the romantic comedy with him in a starring role that everyone has been wishing for.He has never disappointed us yet in any of his roles. ~~~~~ We have a lyricist in our midst...thanks Cymbeline.And the song goes nicely with the pic.Maybe Murph would be interested in the collaboration...nice tribute. ~~~~~ Lynda, Colin's American accent suited 3 DOR...I don't think Richard Greenberg would have approved of extensive surgery of the dialogue.And although not as sonorous, I liked it.

Another day, another five votes. Don't forget to cast yours for CF2K

OK, I've just been over to the My Favorite Man Hall of Fame which seems to have an unusual approach to the passage of months, and they have already started November. However, that means ODB is in first place right now with 75% of the votes! Let's keep it that way.

As long as everybody is voting...here's a Big Enchilada... The whole article is in the Weekend Segment of today's London Times... " Vote for a treasure WE are inviting Times readers to nominate their Millennium Treasures, the people or things whose legacy should go with us into the new millennium. This week we ask you to nominate a living British person. You may send entries by post, or by e-mail via The Times online (www.the-times.co.uk). There are no right answers. One entry, chosen at random, will win a family visit to the Millennium Dome and �500 of Marks & Spencer vouchers. Next week we will invite you to nominate your Treasures in the category of precious British artefacts. Two weeks ago we invited readers to nominate a feature of the natural world as their Millennium Treasure. The winner was Mrs V. J. Atkinson from Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, who nominated the Lake District. The Times's partners in the Millennium Treasures project are NMEC, organiser of the Millennium Experience in the Dome at Greenwich, South London, and Marks & Spencer, which is sponsoring the Self Portrait zone in the Dome. Even if your entry does not win a prize, all nominations will be passed to the organisers of the Self Portrait zone to help them create a self-portrait of Britain on millennium eve." ~~~~~~ I know who I voted for.....:-D

(Evelyn), I know who I voted for.....:-D Jennifer Ehle, of course! (heehee)

I almost forgot. Happy Halloween!

And for all those keeping track, Colin is behind Timothy Dalton in the new poll for November. You can vote more than once a day. Each time you logon, you can vote anew. ;-D

T.D is ahead by 66 votes. Lynda where is Lost Empires being broadcast. I would so much like to see this . I think it is the last thing Olivier did, isn't it.

London Times poll-- this week it's living British person, next week it's precious British artefact, and last week it was feature of the natural world. Too bad we didn't know about it from the beginning since I think ODB wins hands down in each of these categories.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN, ALL!

http://www.reachforthesky.co.uk/skyscape has an "exclusive" on Blackadder. So far nothing appears, but maybe there'ii be a video clip soon. There's also a v.good" young person's review of MLSF at deja.com (David Schwartz). As he says "I say the following in a kindly manner, this is Masterpiece Theatre stuff, appropriately filmed for the mature audience who should appreciate such a blithe production". He also says the performances are first rate and he left the theatre with a smile on his face and that Colin is "handsome and invigorating",. But the review does emphasise the generation gap! I'm going to be very wary of all reviews for SLOW in the UK. (I know I'm going to like it!!). British films tend to get very bad crits over here, as most critics seem to prefer Hollywood. (BTW Ann, I agree, the "Mad Cows " reviews are unspeakable..."better to go and shoot youself in the head than see this"). I wouldn't worry about "pedestrian"...probably means that the action unfolds gently, and "anaemic" could be also be subtle rather than the usual in-yer-face over the top acting we're getting at the mo ent. I'm hoping Colin will actually promote himself, with a film and play coming up, but I'm not very hopeful. The Donmar doesn't advertise...and they just give the name of the production (not the actors) in the papers. As a re-opening it may not be reviewed....and actually doesn't need to be. Most Donmar productions are sell-outs. I'll be keeping my eye open next week and will ask Optimum Releasing if he's doing anything! Some photo coverage from SLOW would be great!

http://www.skyscape.co.uk

Happy Halloween! Murph

"I say the following in a kindly manner, this is Masterpiece Theatre stuff... Why is everything that is set in the British Isles and not contemporary considered Masterpiece Theatre? Argh!! Makes MLSF sound like it's more appropriate for the small screen, which it is not. This is big screen, gorgeous cinematography.

Bethan - The Blackadder link seems to be a deadend. http://www.reachforthesky.co.uk/skyscape

Thanks Murph, that is so sweet, Happy Halloween to you. There is a very interesting feature in The Sunday Times Magazine about the new Millenium Blackadder film, lots of pictures of the cast in costume but I am afraid no mention and no pictures of CF as Shakespeare.However, it is very interesting but very long, I could send it to you Karen, if you would like mto to. BTW did we know it cost 3million pounds, which as they say in the article is a very large sum for half an hour. Shooting took place in May and June, so that goaty beard mentioned at the poetry rea ings must have been for the Blackadder film, I think someone has already speculated on this, Bethan I think, anyway I can't wait to see him as Shakespeare especially as people reported that he looked absolutely gorgeous at the Poetry readings in June. I see from one of the Theatre Website The London Theatre Guide, I believe, that there is no press night for 3DOR this time around and there has been no publicity, which I guess is a good thing for the play as it probably means that it is selling well, but not very good for Colin personally because apart from his ardent fans who else is to know that he is to appear on stage and is back by public demand. I too hope he does at least one interview to publisize his film and 3DOR because although you may hink he is well known in the UK I still get people saying to me "Colin who". Just recently JN has done a couple of wonderfully long interviews, I hope Colin will do the same. As JE said recently, sometimes you have to make a lot of noise to get yourself known (heard?) or somethidng like that, am I righ Evelyn? I am so glad to hear that you are definitely getting MLSF Cathey, and I understand that it is still going strong in the US. However, it does seem strange that we in the UK are one of the last to get it and I mean no desrepect to the US or Australia, I just think it funny especially as Lord Puttnam is the Producer and it is based on the book by Sir Denis Foreman. Still I am sure it will be worthy waiting for.

Yes, Ann, please do send it. Wasn't there another pic from SLOW in your film magazine as long as you're in a mailing mode? You said it was small, but we can deal with it. ;-D I share your disbelief that Australia would get MLSF before the UK. It can't be lack of screens, since a nobody company like Optimum could get screens for SLOW. There's another reason. Evelyn thinks that they have something big planned for it when it is released in May. Like what?

Like what exactly! and May would be too late to get A BAFTA for Best British film or any award for Colin. I'll send both article and picture but it is very very small. Please email me your address Karen, thanks.

(Ann), Shooting took place in May and June, so that goaty beard mentioned at the poetry readings must have been for the Blackadder film, I can not believe that the few that went to the poetry reading did not take pictures. Ladies who attended, please share your pictures! (Karen), Evelyn thinks that they have something big planned for it when it is released in May. Like what? The big Masterpiece Theater anniversary celebration, perhaps? T'was very wicked of me, I know, it is just the mood I am in. ;-)

BTW Colin is now over 100 votes behind TD in the Voting Booth, with Russell Crowe catching up fast in 3rd spot. I have used up all my votes today!!

Like what exactly! and May would be too late to get A BAFTA for Best British film or any award for Colin. I'll send both article and picture but it is very very small. Please email me your address Karen, thanks.

Like what exactly! Am thinking that they're going to have a big 50th anniversary celebration from when the film was actually made. you see I can be very bad as well!! Ann, the voting is not by day but by connection. So any time you logon, you can revote. That's how these people are doing it. BTW, Russell Crowe has overtaken Colin.

Hey, Evelyn is just speculating on the "something big"for MLSF...just trying to drum up a little optimism :-D ~~~~~~~ (Bethan)I'm going to be very wary of all reviews for SLOW in the UK. (I know I'm going to like it!!).British films tend to get very bad crits over here, True on the critics. However, I expect the millions of Colin fans in the UK to support this film .After all it is his first starring role since FP. We shall be looking at the box office receipts which is after all the bottom line on the success of a film. The UK reviews for FP weren't all that great; yet it did well at the box office. ~~~~~ Someone pl. repeat the URL of that Best Actor poll...I lost it and haven't voted.( I tend to think those things are rigged. Remember the one that he was ahead of George Clooney and the webmistress told Nan that they removed CF because they never heard of him?)

Like what exactly! Am thinking that they're going to have a big 50th anniversary celebration from when the film was actually made. you see I can be very bad as well!! LOL! Hey, this is my favourite topic! Well, given that Buena Vista know that most of the audience are going to be "mature", maybe they reckon that May (long, light, warm evenings) will be much more conducive to visiting city-centre cinemas than Jan thru' March (cold, dark, lousy parking). Or as May is arguably the most beautiful month in Scotland, and as MLSF is part-funded by the Scottish Arts Council, perhaps they're hoping MLSF will promote a wave of early holiday bookings in bonny Scotland! See, very positive thinking....otherwise May quite confounds me! BTW, what sort of opening is MLSF getting in Australia....a couple of major cities, or much wider? And is it still playing in the US? (Those 20 prints must be working overtime by now!!) We shall be looking at the box office receipts which is after all the bottom line on the success of a film. The UK reviews for FP weren't all that great; yet it did well at the box office. FP did much better in video rentals and purchases (also an indicator of success) ....all those Volvo-owning ladies sneaking into Blockbusters for multiple-viewings!

have just done some manual labor and need a break and am procrastinating on rest... MLSF is still playing in the US, although we have no idea of how many cities. FP did much better in video rentals and purchases (also an indicator of success) Am amazed how prevalent that view must be...to wait to see things on video vs. on a big screen. Was reading a review of The Winslow Boy last night (I forget which of your papers) and one of the critics said, "best to wait until it is out on video." Incredible that anyone would say that about this movie. To me, there is nothing like the experience of seeing something on a big screen in a darkened theater with nonstop inconsiderate talkers (who should be home watching a movie on video) sitting right behind me, noisely munching away on their popcorn. ;-D Here's the url to vote: http://www.freevote.com/booth/ladyviola About the rigging, I don't think this one is like that other. However, certain people have a much more rabid following or are clever enough to write programs to constantly cast votes. In which case, Colin doesn't stand a prayer with our here and there 5 votes. Just MHO

Am amazed how prevalent that view must be...to wait to see things on video vs. on a big screen I'm afraid that in the UK we're a nation of video/Cable TV watchers, and the Big Screen experience is mainly reserved for the teenyboppers (just look at our current Box office ratings) BTW, "Mad Cows" which must have received just about the worst possible reviews in the entire history of the British cinema (and features a guest appearance by Noel Gallagher) is currently showing on about 40 screens in our region ( compared with "The Winslow Boy"'s 2 screens) and will no doubt do quite well! Nuff said. I think that measures of success are different in the UK. An actor of Colin's calibre could easily work on for as long as he wants, mixing theatre, TV, supporting/leading roles in movies, radio, poetry readings etc, and remain totally aloof from the public gaze (compare someone like Corin Redgrave or Ian Holm). Or he could promote himself more, and become more high profile in the short-term. But sometimes "faceless" actors who merge into their roles have much longer careers than so-called celebrities. Wou d still very much like him to do interviews though!!!! But didn't his last interview refer to his "shy disinclination for self publicity"?

(Karen)Am amazed how prevalent that view must be...to wait to see things on video vs. on a big screen (Bethan)I'm afraid that in the UK we're a nation of video/Cable TV watchers, I'd feel that way too if I had to pay 17 Pounds($26) to see a movie. (Odeon, West End). On the other hand...what other country in the world could fill a 1,250 seat theatre (National) night after night to see a play by a Russian socialist... (Summerfolk)...which originally was only supposed to run until Oct. 16 and was extended to Nov. 23!! and this isn't the tourist season. Amazing. I applaud you.

But pounds 17 is not the price most of these kids are paying, is it? Anyway, the kiddies fill most of our theaters as well. My surprise was the dismissal of this fine movie (which played on relatively very few screens in the US too) to videoland. That's all. ************ Since I'm on another break now, here's something Evelyn found or was sent. Notice anything strange...an omission??? The Noel Coward Centenary Celebration Savoy Theatre Sunday 12 December 1999 Four days before the centenary of the birth of Noel Coward, a galaxy of British theatrical, television and film stars will come together to celebrate the words of the Master. This extraordinary and unique entertainment will feature extracts from the plays, the prose, the poems and diaries of Noel Coward and will be introduced by Richard Attenborough. It is anticipated that The Noel Coward Centenary Celebration will be the last great theatrical celebration of the century. This will be an evening of comedy and tragedy - British theatre at its best. With Richard Attenborough, Alan Bates, Simon Russell Beale, Tony Britton, Simon Callow, Judy Campbell, Alan Cox, Brian Cox, Charles Dance, Lucy Fleming, Edward Fox, Moyra Fraser, Stephen Fry, Adam Godley, Peter Greenwell, Lisa Harrow, Nigel Havers, Derek Jacobi, Belinda Lang, Moira Lister, Elizabeth McGovern, John Mills, Sheridan Morley, Steve Ross, Clive Rowe, Greta Scacchi, Malcolm Sinclair, Donald Sinden, Victoria Smurfit, Imo en Stubbs, James Wilby and Simon Williams. All artists have agreed to appear subject to their professional commitments. ************ Yes, ODB is MISSING!! Even Elizabeth ("I forgot my American accent") McGovern is scheduled to appear. This touched off a little investigation and Mari has come up with: Top 10 reasons Colin can't go to the Noel Coward Centenary Celebration: 1. He's busy getting in touch with his Dutch/Portuguese/Italian inner child. 2. Bowling night. 3. He's sending Matthew Modine as his surrogate. 4. He's busy staying marginalized. 5. He needs to catch up on his thank-you notes to fans. 6. He's writing an expose on Sainsbury's (Did you read the one in the Wall Street Journal? Let's *not* shop there for snacks in January.;-) 7. Livia wants to put the tree up that night. 8. "I'm not working 7 bloody days a week!" 9. Shop 'Til You Drop Holiday Sale at Harvey Nichols. 10. "Let the people doing Coward films this year have the spotlight." :-( :-( (reprinted with permission!!)

What's Harvey Nichols? I'm going over and vote for the second time today. It's true that you can cast five votes every time you log in over there. Don't flag, Firthettes! Who made Donvan Quick? It wasn't Timothy Dalton or Russell Bloody Crowe, was it!?

Harvey Nichols is an upscale women's apparel store in Knightsbridge, London. Similar to Neiman Marcus. ~~~~~ LMAO My fave is: "Livia wants to put up the tree that night.." #3....Matthew Modine as his surrogate is pretty good too. And I can guess which one is Moon's favorite...:-D Brilliant Mari.... ~~~~~ Saw EMcG. last night on A&E in "The Scarlet Pimpernel"...this time a sort-of British accent..baaaad. (Gwynnie doesn't have to worry)

In case you are tired of robot voting try this ;-) : http://www.freevote.com/booth/renate

Deep chuckle for the Top Ten List. I'm telling you, we ought to go into the entertainment business ourselves. Renate, you are a gem. I've voted. If I log off, can I do it again 'cause I changed my mind about one of my favorites. So many roles....

Colin is now in first place. Who is Russel Crowe? It's too bad we can't post a notice for voters on ROP asking people who visit there to go and vote for the man who gave them Mr Darcy. I know that one week they had over a million hits. Wouldn't it blow their socks off if each of them voted 5 times for ODB

Oops Russell Crowe is now up 20 votes

(Lucie) It's too bad we can't post a notice for voters on ROP asking people who visit there to go and vote for the man who gave them Mr Darcy. Can't we? That's a great idea!

Renate - very nice poll--but so difficult. Valmont is now in second place btw -- it's the smile. I'm chagrined at the number of roles I don't recognize. When did he play Rupert Brooke and who is Matthew?

Cymbeline, Matthew is from SLOW. Rupert Brooke is a role from the audio play "The One Before The Last". You can't see him, but you get to appreciate the voice even more. An experience! - - - I would like to add the name of his character from "Comeback", but I can't recall it - can somebody help me please?

Somebody must have been very busy: Colin is on top again on that Favourite Man booth. http://www.freevote.com/booth/ladyviola

Colin is on top again on that Favourite Man booth. (Consider suggestive crack here). Yes! What a start to Monday morning! There must be an army of us.

Mari, loved the top ten! We should put them all together and send them to his agent! #s 4,1,7,8 I think you might have something there. ;-) I too have voted for DB, but how serious is this poll? I thought it was done by the Daily Mail, but there are too many TV actors listed for me to take it seriously. I prefer Renate's. :-D

There are no previews and no formal press night for "Three Days of Rain" in November. You can expect the press to take another look at it, but the coverage will not be as complete as it was in March, unless some ancillary news story is created. c

(Karen) Am thinking that they're going to have a big 50th anniversary celebration from when the film was actually made *snicker* I'm amazed at some of the out-of-the-way places (in the US) MLSF is showing. Pretty soon I expect it to play in my hometown :-P Thanks for posting Mari's top ten list. LOL, Mari :-D

Renate, the name is Peter Darwin. I loved Comeback, a lot more than The One Before the Last. He does all the voices, and the story is good. TOBL is difficult to relate to - at least for me.

P.S. Mari--thought of reason 11: he'll be in Rome, walking around.

Peter Darwin, of course! Thanks, Gi. Love the voices, too, he is doing on Comeback.

*&%^#*#* Russell Crowe is on top again.

What have you done with your copy of the tape, Renate? :-)

(Renate) Love the voices, too, he is doing on Comeback. Me too. It's fun to hear how he differentiates the characters so well by using the different voices. I particularly like how he did the women characters :-).

(Arami) What have you done with your copy of the tape, Renate? :-) I keep it safe for whenever it is needed :-P.

Briefly, I called Optimum Releasing again about SLOW. It will get a staggered release from the 26th, using London as a platform and then going out into the regions. I asked if this meant independent cinemas or Showcase, and the young man who seems to be in charge of SLOW - coincidently called Will - said no, it would be high street cinemas, Odeon, ABC, and it would be showing through December, January. It would be great if it shows in the Shaftesbury Avenue ABC, a stone's throw from the Donmar..CF on stage and scr en within a few hundred yards! There must be a limited number of prints, but I think there's a lot to be said for a staggered release, rather than one week sudden death. The Bridget Jones sequel BJ:The Edge of Reason will definitely be in UK bookshops on the 19th, and can also of course be ordered through amazon.co.uk. BTW, the latest Flashman is the highest new entry in the Hardcover Book charts...there's life in the old dog yet! A colleague of mine attended a conference in London, and David Puttnam was there. My colleague is a movie buff and a Puttnam admirer...says he made "some great films". DP apparently left in a chauffeur driven jag and was very busy on his mobile phone. I know that DP has zilch influence in the US, but I find it difficult to believe that he'll let his last movie be marginalised in the UK. He still has a lot of "clout" in the arts world...could certainly arrange a festival screening or charity premiere. I'm uzzled!

Who's David Puttnam please?

Who's David Puttnam please? Producer of MLSF, also Chariots of Fire. Onetime head of Columbia Pictures (tho' not for long). Now Lord Puttnam and very involved in politics. MLSF was his last film.

ODB is now 282 votes behind

......and Ross Talbot is only a few hits behind Mr. Darcy. Who would have thought it. The scissors scene must have left a *very* deep impression with some(one). ;-D Colin Firth roles voting booth: http://www.freevote.com/booth/renate

There's a review of Fever Pitch in the TV Guide database: http://www.tvguide.com/moviedb/ShowMovie.asp?MI=41444 Also, Kirsten has uploaded the Three Days of Rain discussion (with Cliff Notes) to cf.com. Interesting read for those going to see the play shortly. Here's the url: http://www.firth.com/filmdis/3dor/3dor-part1.htm

(Renate) ...and Ross Talbot is only a few hits behind Mr. Darcy. Who would have thought it. The scissors scene must have left a *very* deep impression with some(one). ;-D Why is that so surprising? It is one of Colin's most revealing roles! ;-D

Karen - thanks for the TV guide review link. Did you all read the reviews on ODB's other films? Valmont: "weakest so far" of the three film adaptations, "willfully wrongheaded casting", CF "lacks charismatic bravado and sexual menace."!!!!! Who writes these things!? They made up for that in a small way by writing of Playmaker: "Talented CF is relatively effective in his scenes of psychological manipulation [They should see what he does to us!] and it's sad to see him here. Perhaps he too should shoot his agent." LOL hunh!

OK, ladies, unsheathe your razors!! For Londinium, Colin has a moustache and beard. It's similar to a Wessex configuration, but softened. Moustache doesn't extend as far and the bottom goatee section is not pointy. It's pretty sparse looking too. Sort of like when guys are trying to grow a beard. Actually, it doesn't look too bad.

There was a French TV review of "Valmont" very recently. My French leaves much to be desired, but I think it said that his face had as much expression as a lump of tarmacadam, and his performance was mediocre. Ouch! You're right, who does write these reviews and what do they see?! Although I agree in part that he doesn't have sexual "menace". His Valmont is more boyishly cute...a completely different (and valid) interpretation. I'm beginning to ignore reviews...The Guardian (our thinking person's newspaper) gave "The Winslow Boy" 2 stars (and The Phantom Menace 5 stars) and asked "why did David Mamet actually bother with this?"

Please share the Londinium pix with us ASAP, Karen. Is it more like COF or Nostromo? Bethan, I assure you, TWB is a very good film. At least 4 stars, IMNSHO! (Karen), Why is that so surprising? Ross is one of Colin's most revealing roles! ;-D Hear, hear!

(Colin Firth roles voting booth) Ross Talbot is only a few hits behind Mr. Darcy It's obviously someone being mischevious. It's not me this time :-), I hasten to assure all: but I do think these "do it yourself" voting booths are of no consequence: no more than vacuous amusement to kill the time whilst waiting for something interesting to happen. And only if you happen to have absolutely nothing better to do. For Londinium, Colin has a moustache and beard. Karen, your long sight is amazing. Seriously - do reveal your sources, please! I'm dying out of curiosity here... His Valmont is more boyishly cute...a completely different (and valid) interpretation. Milos Forman kept saying that until he was blue in the face, but nobody took any notice. Who cares what the film author has to say, anyway.

Firthettes - I just watched my brand new copy of Hostages, and I have to say that I like him both clean-shaven (absolutely adorable even with the nerd shirt) and with that Cecil B. DeMille Biblical hero look--black beard and head band. Also like the Wessex look. I don't think the little mustaches a la AMITC do anything for him. But then he's someone who doesn't need anything done for him isn't he? Hostages was powerful, and everyone was good, but I could have used a lot more Colin.

I have to say that I like him both clean-shaven (absolutely adorable even with the nerd shirt) and with that Cecil B. DeMille Biblical hero look--black beard LOL! Cymbeline, you like that lonnggg beard he wears before they let him shave? Even I (who has never met a CF she hasn't liked) can't beat that ardor. I think I'll like his Londinium goatee just fine though. When can we see it, Karen? Please? Please?

Don't I always share my information and images? Will do some scanning tomorrow. OK, my source is Deep Throat.

What you have is a very light goatee/moustache...not at all like a Charles Gould or John McCarthy biblical adornment. Sort of like someone took a charcoal pencil and drew it in. As a result, it isn't as cheesy as the one in COF and not of the paste-on variety as in SiL. BTW, it appears to be contagious because Jack Dee also has an even lighter one, either that or a very bad five o' clock shadow at a wedding, which is presumably in the morning.

(Cymbeline)Hostages was powerful, and everyone was good, Glad you enjoyed H. It's one of my favorites...The whole cast has quite a following on this board after we discussed it. I noticed that Brian Keenan took part in the recent Cheltenham Festival of Literature. He talked about his life-changing experience and his recent journey in Patagonia with fellow hostage, John McCarthy, explored in his latest book "Between Extremes". Karen is a fan of his poetry and I went on to read the book that John wrote with Jill Morrell. Colin's projects invaribly lead us into other avenues. ~~~~~ Thank you Karen and Kristen for organizing and editing the 3 DOR discussion on cf.com.Great job!

Think I have an addition to the Cliff Notes. The meaning of Lina. Sing along with me now: "Nothin could be finah than to be IN Caro-LINA in the mor-or-nin. Nothin could be sweetah than my sweetie when I see her in the mor-or-nin..." wish I knew the rest of the lyrics, but you get the idea. ;-D

That is the video cover for MLSF!! It is listed at amazon in VHS video for the "rental" sales price of $103.99. As the description states, the price usually comes down in about 6 months. However, reel.com shows an advance purchase price for the wide-screen DVD at $17.99. It will be available January 25, 2000.

Additional details re: MLSF DVD According to the Buena Vista specs, it will be a bare-bones edition (single layer), with only the theatrical trailer added and the usual interactive menus and scene access. No interviews, deleted scenes, alternate edits, audio commentary, nada!! Somehow this doesn't surprise me. :-(

The SLOW review is also now available at the Empire website: SLOW Review Hopefully that will work, but if not to to Empire and do a search of its reviews.

Thanks for the SLOW review, Karen. I'm a bit confused -- isn't Caroline Goodall supposed to be in this film, playing Colin's wife? She isn't mentioned in the review. Maybe her part was very small, or was cut to simplify the plot? As it is, call me old-fashioned, but the fact that his character is married and romancing another woman makes me feel a bit queasy.

I'd buy the video of MLSF just for that picture on the cover. He looks delicious.

Thanks, SS (Super Sleuth:-) for the MLSF video information .I guess that is only NTSC. Nice IOU Christmas gift. ~~~~~ Re: SLOW. Apparently some directors present the films before the screening and and have a Q&A afterwards. If it should happen and Peter Schwabach appears...anyone have any suggestions?...(keep it clean :-) (Also I reserve the right of censorship:-) ~~~~~ (Susan)but the fact that his character is married and romancing another woman makes me feel a bit queasy. Susan, apparently Matthew's marriage was on the rocks when he falls for Nimi.

Optimum says that the producers and director will be at the screenings of SLOW. As they say, an invitation has been extended to the film's stars to also appear but, as we know, one has another commitment on Saturday night. ;-D

Thanks Karen for posting the MLSF video cover! Does this mean that there'll be no more theatre screenings in the US? I've another long and boring observation on reviews, interviews, promotion etc in the UK!!! As part of my job I have to scan though the (quality) papers every day. My focus isn't the Arts...but I can never resist glancing through the reviews and news about films/theatre. There's been a definite "sea-change" in opinion making...the views reflected certainly aren't views that I share (am getting older!) and the movies that receive the plaudits aren't the ones I want to see. The only paper that seems to like what I like is the Daily Telegraph! (But not the Sunday Telegraph). Films like "The Winslow Boy", and I'm pretty certain SLOW and MLSF, will only get a modest critical reception. I reckon TWB came in third after "Pushing Tin" and "Vampires". This does not mean that they re not good films, and ones which will give pleasure to many people! So I wouldn't pay much attention to British reviews. Another trend is the intrusive interview. When actors give interviews to promote their films, it seems that the only questions they are asked are about their personal lives, relationships, sex lives etc. Even the so-called serious papers follow this line. It seemed to me that in his last interviews for 3DOR, Colin tried to turn the focus to more serious matters - the Refugee/Asylum seekers problem - but neither interviewer was interested in this and trivialised it. I also remember reading that when one of the interviewers asked him about starting a family, he lapsed into total silence. I'd be quite surprise if he did give interviews for SLOW...a great many actors in the UK are increasingly reluctant to talk to the press. And our talk/movie shows are almost as trivial as the papers. There are very few intelligent -or respectful- vehicles for promotion. Despite all this, and an apparent lack of exposure, most talented actors have no problem in pursuing successful careers...but we just don't read much them m ch!

(Bethan) ... another long and boring observation Nevah! I think you are exactly right, and your views certainly hold for the US as well. I haven't had a chance to see TWB yet b/c it never played around me nor did MLSF. And I'm sure the interview sessions are horrible. Actors must dread them. They always seem to send breathless little girls who are concentrating harder on their own reactions than getting any information over to readers--they seem to be ignorant and without poise or manners. I imagine actors have to fight the urge to snap None of your Damn Business over and over again b/c they certainly can't make the little twits mad. Imagine asking a stranger if he were going to start a family! I mean drooling is al well and good, but by the time you're an adult, you're supposed to know that it's done in private. (And yes I do consider our little confab here which is available at any time to the entire universe private). What I'd really like is for all of us, who have a little CF background and know how to behave, to be able to sit down nice and cosily over a pint or whatever he likes to drink and really find out about what it was like making the movies and being an actor and stage vs screen and so on--you know, get into some interesting detail *on his work* instead of the same superficial stuff you get over and over again from the interviews. And if we were all drooling silently the whole time, he need never know. I know that none of you has ever thought of such a thing, and I'm sure we should be able to bring it off pretty easily, say once the Donmar run is over, if we could only get his agent to answer our letters!

Cymbeline, I have had the same thought - a serious but relaxed insightful talk with CF over drinks - but I have a feeling this could be done at the second Donmar reunion next January. I believe he will recognize some of the participants, and unless he's scared sh**less he may be gracious enough to accept a civil invitation for drinks after the show. Remember this soothsayer's prediction... and pray that Evelyn will speak to him ;-)

a serious but relaxed insightful talk with CF over drinks Super idea, nothing really prevents us from inviting him and the right person to do it irresistibly and convincingly enough is definitely our Evelyn. I�m sure Colin would find it pretty difficult to deny anything from you Evelyn!!! Still.....I�m quite sure he�d refuse, not because of unkindness but because it would be a pretty unexceptional situation for him I guess, to sit down with a group of fans to discuss his work! On the other hand, this is possibly our last chance ever to talk to him and ask him about 3DOR and his other current works. We have so many questions that the press will never ask him for us it seems.

What you've all been waiting for: shall we count them? ;-)

Sorry, I meant of course: exceptional!!

Eeeeek! I�m not sure if I�m happy about that goatee, Karen! Well, at least it seems to be genuine :-)

(Bethan) Does this mean that there'll be no more theatre screenings in the US? It would seem to mean that, but it's not a hard and fast rule. There's been a definite "sea-change" in opinion making...the views reflected certainly aren't views that I share (am getting older!) and the movies that receive the plaudits aren't the ones I want to see. The same is occurring here. Established critics are being forced out because their views do not reflect the tastes of the ticket-buying public. Janet Maslin of the NYT is leaving because of a disagreement with management. Then, there was the entertainment magazine on the net that removed the grade markings from one of its critics because they said she was too tough on films. The box office has been making fools of many critics (or relegating them to total insignificance). The nation's critics panned number of films, which subsequently made megamillions. Kids don't read the reviews and frankly don't care what they say. Since I read the AICN site, I am continually amazed by what is written there and how anyone could seriously consider Harry Knowles a critic. He writes little anecdotes about his life and expects you to draw conclusions about how this film somehow relates to his life. Now, there's talk he's going to have his own TV show. The guy cannot express himself. He's no Siskel. I'll stop r nting now. BTW, check out the AICN site, there's a hilarious (although sad) review of Mansfield Park by someone who is positively clueless and used things overheard at the theater by people who knew about the story. Cymbeline, love your idea of treating ODB to a pint and letting him relax without anyone asking those personal questions that we have no business asking nor expecting a response. I think Elena should organize it! ;-D

Not bad, however, I will need a full facial view to give an honest opinion.

shall we count them? ;-) What would you be counting? Thanks for the close-up, Karen! Did you notice one tooth is longer than the other? I thought he had caps! Do we also get the full face? pretty please! (Cymbeline), I know that none of you has ever thought of such a thing, and I'm sure we should be able to bring it off pretty easily, say once the Donmar run is over, if we could only get his agent to answer our letters! I hate to burst the bubble, but he would not do it. As Elena said I�m quite sure he�d refuse, not because of unkindness but because it would be a pretty unexceptional situation for him Only aspiring rock stars when asked by semi-naked women would do it. I do hope Evelyn lets the Donmar people know about the wonderful discussion of 3DOR at cf.com, I think they would be interested in reading it. Then by association, they might mention it to Colin who might then feel the inclination to read it himself. Then...when you meet him after the show in Jan. Karen or Evelyn or Heide, could mention it and at least he would know something more about the group. Then you can ask him some of those questions such as: "How do prepare for a role?" "Would you be interested i playing Flashman?" "Has your Italian improved?" etc, etc, What do you think Evelyn?

Elena, are you going too? You can ask the questions too!

Sure, sure... ;-D

Yes, Moon, I�m going to London and am courageously planning to ask him a couple of questions.....but shall I be able to ask them actually remains to be seen. When the big moment came last March I found out that I could hardly spell my name right when he asked about it.

(Elena) I could hardly spell my name right when he asked about it. And that's exactly the situation I'd be in despite all my carrying on about proper behavior. And, no, I wouldn't expect that he'd do it since I'd imagine he'd like to get home after work. But who knows, maybe he's a big party boy. The thing is you can't really be anything but a stranger asking questions unless you're already a friend, and the gods did not bless me with that fate. But that's why they gave us romantics a rich fantasy life.

Karen, where's the rest of him???? Re caps: he has them on the front teeth, but sides seem natural. If I remember rightly, his natural teeth can still be seen in "1919" (some good close-ups right up his nose there:), but by the time he was doing "Dutch Girls", the gap between the two front incisors had disappeared. (And before I'm asked again if I'm a dentist, you know what the answer is, don't you?...:-))

I think Elena should organize it! ;-D I so move..... All those in favor say "AYE"!!! ~~~~~~~ Seriously, why set ourselves up for an embarassing moment for all concerned. A star of his stature just doesn't do that...esp. a shy one.He is a v. couteous person...but I would not want to put him in that position.Let's just enjoy ourselves and relish the moment.Enough to have him that close and smiling at us in that beguiling way. I shall tell the Donmar publicist about the 3 DOR discussion page on cf.com...if Karen hasn't yet.But the guys at the box office don't care...they sell tickets and then wanna go home. I only wish every one of you were coming with us in January....'n on the 13th for the SLOW premiere.

I shall be going to SLOW on the 14th, in the interests of providing an extra review. Still haven't figured out how to explain to my DW that we're going to see a movie in Brixton (not on our usual cinematic round). Potential excuses reasons: LFF first opportunity to see wonderful new film that may not hit other screens for ages (hope she doesn't spot when it was made); we might recognise Grasse, where we stayed for a week three years ago; online film discussion group demanding coverage (hmm, maybe not); any ideas?

I shall tell the Donmar publicist about the 3 DOR discussion page on cf.com Hmmm....... would like to have your opinion on this: Two of the pics on the Donmar discussion pages are illegally taken. You may recall that there was a sign explicitly saying that these pictures must not be photographed. Fortunately I only read it when it was too late :-). So, if we invite the Donmar people to take a look at the discussions it may be wiser to take the pics down. What do you think?

Mark.G - I shall be going to see SLOW on the 14th - I think you mean the 13th Mark, I would hate for you to think up all those excuses only to miss the film.

Two of the pics on the Donmar discussion pages are illegally taken. Good point. This just adds fuel to the fire of internet bashers. I'm enough of a hypocritical straight arrow that I wouldn't want us to be seen doing anything that might attract the antidrooling police.

It is only two pictures, it might be a good idea to take them down.

Thanks Ann, I do mean the 14th. My calendar must be SLOW.

Two of the pics on the Donmar discussion pages are illegally taken. (a) You're assuming that they will hop on the Internet to read the discussions, which I doubt. (b) There is nothing to indicate that the pictures were photographed off the walls of the Donmar. (c) The publicists hand out production stills for reproduction by the press. Internet publication qualifies. Stop being so paranoid. If they object, you can be sure that they will ask for their removal (which I doubt). No one is going to prison. Now focus your creative talents on helping Mark with "reasons" to take his DW to Brixton to see SLOW. Mark, I like your one about a film discussion group. If you need to elaborate, you could just say that you've monitored the group's discussions for sometime and you remember this film being mentioned ages ago. Now you've noticed that it's playing the fest and you're intrigued, you want to find out why members of the group were anxious to see it. You might even report back to them since you're one of the few people in a position to see it. That, or somebody gave you tickets and you didn't want to waste them. ;-D

More holiday shopping news... The Collector's Edition of SIL on DVD will be out on December 7. This is the one that has a "Making of" featurette, audio commentary by the director and members of the cast (I think Colin), and three deleted scenes, including the original ending. Reel.com has it for $23.99 on preorder (regular price $39.99) and remember no shipping costs.

Re: ODB's whiskers (you can tell I've been reading Flashman books)--oooohhh, I like this look. Slick, smooth and very in. IMO heavier growth impedes his good looks whereas this compliments them. The FoFs who saw him at the comedy club in June reported at Murph's site that he sported a goatee--everyone assumed it was for Blackadder. Maybe it was for both roles. (Moon) I hate to burst the bubble, but he would not do it. I agree with Moon, Evelyn and everyone else who has this opinion. IMO ODB has drawn a clear line regarding his fans. When you all left for London in March I remember crossing my fingers that you'd spot him entering or leaving the theater and maybe, *maybe* catch him for a few autographs. I was 'over the moon' when I learned that he was so outgoing after the performances, even when he was not feeling well. I would be stunned to hear of him doing anything more than autographs, posing for pictures or ans ering a simple, straightforward question about his work. I agree with your observations, Bethan; Karen, it's sad to hear that Maslin is leaving the Times. (Karen) Established critics are being forced out because their views do not reflect the tastes of the ticket-buying public I've always suspected that good reviews of some films have been bought (heck, the whole thing might be as corrupt as the International Boxing Federation!). If this keeps going, reviews run the risk of becoming as meaningless as the endless gush on Ent Tonight and Access H'wood. Ugh. (Bethan) Another trend is the intrusive interview I've noticed that CF's interviews in the British press are tougher than the 'fluff' pieces published in the US (e.g., People Mag), only because he's lesser known here. They're pushing for a scoop to sell mags--what better way than to dig up some dirt or controversy on someone who seems to lead a fairly ordinary life?

No one is going to prison. No, but what about the Spanish Inquisition?!

(Moon) I hate to burst the bubble, but he would not do it. I�m 99 per cent sure he wouldn�t but optimistically thinking, there might still be a chance! I never ever believed that he would be seen after the performance in March and expected him to vanish as quickly as possible. What happened was everything but. He surprised us all with his fan-friendly attitude...I suggested here in February that we should ask him to pose for a pic with us all and I NEVER imagined that he would actually do it, I thought it was just a silly fantasy. Also, I don�t see what is embarrassing about inviting him after the show to Nuova Luna for example, just for a minute to tell us about the making of the play. We�re not half-naked giggling bimbos (at least not in that situation:-D) but a group of pretty sensible looking Volvo ladies. Ok ok, I know it�s a fantasy and he must be very tired after two performances, and there�s no-one to volunteer (I�d do it if my spoken English wasn�t so bad and even worse when I�m nervous) so forget it. Still, theoretically, I don�t see anything wrong about politely asking and I�m sure he wouldn�t mind. In fact I�d be very curious to know what would be his reaction!:-)

I'm sure you "expected" this: Do try to handle the torture! ;-D

Or the guillotine?! Karen, I think the management at the Donmar will read the 3DOR discussion. (Karen), Now focus your creative talents on helping Mark with "reasons" to take his DW to Brixton to see SLOW. Mark, get your wife to watch P&P this Nov. on A&E if you do not have the tape. Then, after she has seens dear Mr. Darcy, tell her that he is starring in SLOW. I doubt she will have any objections to the trip to Brixton. :-D Lucky her!

Who could resist!

So, if we invite the Donmar people to take a look at the discussions it may be wiser to take the pics down. What do you think? I took the lobby pictures for TRT...Donmar publicist has seen them...yet nothing was said.We have had persons tell us to take pictures down (Toronto media!) and we have..no problem. ~~~~~~ Mark..great to have you joining us for SLOW screening on the 13th. Hey...the SLOW Spring delegation grows every day.

Thanks Moon...IBM indeed!!!

Mark, a propos Moon's earlier suggestion, is your DW familiar with Colin at all -- if not through P&P, then perhaps through SiL or even TEP? If so, wouldn't think it would be too hard to persuade her to see a big-screen film featuring a rare lead role for him. Re: the suggestion of asking him out for drinks/discussion, I'm in the nay camp on this. Don't think he would do it, if for no other reason than he may be afraid of setting a precedent and thereafter be beseeched by various groups of fans after each performance. As it is, I wonder if he will do the "meet and greet" thing after each performance this time, since this is a much longer run than in March. I still think the best forum for asking him the questions we want to have asked is an online chat-type thing. Who volunteers to help Colin brush up on his computer skills;-)

I like the Londinium pic, Karen! Not a heavy growth, and, most significantly, his mouth isn't obscured. (Moon) I hate to burst the bubble, but he would not do it. The Donmar has a backdoor exit. He could have chosen to slip out through it every evening. I was very impressed by your reports of his willingness to meet and briefly chat with fans after the performance, but would be very unsure whether he would take up a further invitation...although I'm sure he'd refuse very graciously! (BTW I do have a ticket for a performance of 3DOR, but towards the end of the run.) I've noticed that CF's interviews in the British press are tougher than the 'fluff' pieces published in the US (e.g., People Mag),only because he's lesser known here. They're pushing for a scoop to sell mags--what better way than to dig up some dirt or controversy on someone who seems to lead a fairly ordinary life? (Eileen) Too true. I think he's too normal for our sensation-seeking press. There's a preview of 3DOR in this week's London TimeOut.."Rain supreme". It's mostly an inreview with David Morrissey, but it refers to "three stunning actors CF, EM and DM" and praises the play. DM comments thatthey only had (originally) two weeks to rehearse.."I always knew the play was good but whether we could do justice to it in such a short rehearsal period I was less sure about". He says he's enjoying the time to look at the play again. There's a small photo of DM with Colin. Colin is wearing specs, open necked shirt, with white T-shirt underneath. Guess he's in character. I haven't seen this photo before, and will gladly send it for scanning to anyone who has the expertise. (I ain't got it!)

Great to hear you have a ticket to 3DOR Bethan, I look forward to hering what you thought of it when the times comes. I'm so glad to hear that there has been a mention of it somehwere, I thought it was going to come and go without comment. I believe R.F is to appear or has appeared on Dessert Island Discs, wouldn't it be great if Colin did something like this, very insightful to know what he would take if marooned on an Island!!

(Bethan)I'm sure he'd refuse very graciously! Certainly and I�d love to see that very gracious refusal! Anyway, it�s no use trying to guess what his reaction would be, the only way to find it out would be to politely ask and see what happens.

There will be publicity for 3DOR. That picture in Time Out would be from March since new photos will not be taken until Tuesday, so you should see things in the papers starting Friday, I would imagine. Am also glad to hear you are going, Bethan. Finally, there are some new pictures from SLOW on Murph's site. If you go to the news page below, you will see Colin and Nia in bed (that's the same shot as appeared in Ann's film magazine), then click on it and you will see a gorgeous closeup. http://www.geocities.com/firthfan/news2.html

(K) Do try to handle the torture! ;-D Oh, no, not the comfy chair! I confess, I confess! =8-O (E) I took the lobby pictures for TRT...Donmar publicist has seen them...yet nothing was said. Thanks, Evelyn. That gives an idea how serious they are about their "Don't"s.

Renate, did you get my email? If people start clamoring to see the rest of the face, I will tell them it's your fault! It will be the extra-Comfy chair for you!! ;-D

Karen, I have changed the link. And now *I* start clamoring to see the rest :-P.

Re: SLOW picture....doesn't do Nia Long justice...she's much prettier. And a big hit in the current "The Best Man."

I haven't seen this photo before, and will gladly send it for scanning to anyone who has the expertise. Better still, send it to someone who has a reliable scanner... mine is out of action and here I sit like a prune with all those lovely new pics in my sweaty little paws... Waaaaaah! Btw, when are you going to the Donmar, Bethan?

Since the closest scanner is out of commission, I'm available. OK, since Renate has made the necessary change, go to firth.com and click on my little box to see what I've been up to!

(Evelyn) Susan, apparently Matthew's marriage was on the rocks when he falls for Nimi. Rocks, schmocks. Whatever happened to "till death do us part";-) Bethan, I meant to tell you earlier that I really enjoy your comments on the British film industry, reviewers, etc. Always very insightful and informative. Please continue them. Will probably be off-line for next few days, so want to wish everyone that's traveling to 3DOR and SLOW a safe and happy journey. Looking forward to your reports:-D

Karen, your Londinium page is fabulous. Congratulations!! Love the blue background. Irene Jacob looks ok to me. The picnic ...is that Regent Park?..Hyde Park? Love the walking on the Southbank scene...and in the scene with Max Binder Colin looks like Tom Selleck to me. Mustache and goatee look fuller. What a treat. Thanks.

Karen - the Londinium page is a treat! The portrait is wonderful--beard is good, and the hair is great. Although I am a real sucker for his early public school boy parts, I have to say his pushing forty face is getting some great character, and I'm lovin'it. He's so fine!

Good show, Karen.

Good show indeed, thanks Karen. Ilike the goatee.

Glad you all like. :-D Can't wait to hear if Ann changes her mind when she sees the full, robust character! My fav has to be all four walking along the Thames. (nasty little me) Check out the heights. Irene J has spike heels on and Mariel is wearing flats.

Wow - Mariel is tall! I hadn't noticed she was wearing flats in the picture. I wonder why Mike Binder keeps wanting to work with her? She makes him look like a munchkin. Thanks for the pictures, Karen! And MarkG, thanks for arranging to see SLOW and report back. Those of us who do not have access to see it greatly appreciate it, particularly when it involves spousal maneuvering. Heavens, we're going to make you as sneaky as the rest of us ;-).

There will be publicity for 3DOR. That picture in Time Out would be from March since new photos will not be taken until Tuesday, so you should see things in the papers starting Friday, I would imagine. (Karen) What would we do without you Karen? You really do have your finger on the pulse! I'm really glad that 3DOR's return won't go unnoticed. If Colin's going to work for three months for the price of his taxi fare, let him at least get some attention! Having said that, he does get attention in today's Times (Hurrah!)In the Metro Theatre section, three plays are recommended...Vanessa and Corin Redgrave (first time they've played together) in a Noel Coward play (Coward is definitely in fashion), the Royal Shakes eare Company's "Taming of the Shrew" and 3DOR... "a return run for a production that proved hugely successful when it briefly played during the theatre's American drama season. RG's darkish comedy dodges form 19965 to 1960, allowing the excellent Colin Firth to tackle both a stuttering architect with a dread of children and his awkward alienated son. " Sandwiched bewtween theatrical royalty and the RSC is fine, and I particularly like "the excellent CF". I hate to say this, but being referred to as a "heartthrob" or "tight-trousered Darcy" will have done him absolutely no favours with the acting establishment here. Time to move on.. Re: SLOW picture....doesn't do Nia Long justice...she's much prettier. And a big hit in the current "The Best Man." (Evelyn) I saw Nia Long in "Made in America" (one of my favourite movies) with Whoopi Goldberg, Ted Danson, Will Smith and Jennifer Tilly (all very funny!). I thought she was very pretty..and a good performer. Tiny though...can't be more than five foot. CF will tower over her! I'm really keeping my fingers crossed for SLOW (and I reckon Colin will make it to the Friday matinee, if only to support the producer and director. And Islington is only a couple of miles from the NFT!) Don't forget the soundtrack by Peter abriel (masterminding the Dome Millenium concert) and an award winning cinematographer. The only problem I can see is that it won't be downbeat or heavy enough for our reviewers who seem to love in yer face social realism, tackling so called "issues". Why do there have to be any "issues"? Can't an Englishman and Nigerian woman fall in love? On reviews...the promotion for "The Fight Club" is typical of what we're getting at the moment. "A howling monster of a movie that sticks its ravening snout out of the screen and bites you". Ouch! This is from "Empire"...who cares if they don't like SLOW?! :-) Well MLSF has reached us and will be shown on Thursday 11th - plus a good article about David Puttnam in our Daily Paper.(Anne) Good news Anne! And a major chain. Even better. Wish the focus would shift from DP (this movie has a star!) but I'm not complaining! Great pics of Londinium, Karen. It's obviously an ensemble piece (a romantic foursome) with back up from the likes of Jack Dee (very dourly amusing) and SF. Could well be okay, although I wouldn't expect it to be a blockbuster! I reckon that CF ends up with IJ and MB with MH. CF always looks good as a "proper Englisman"!

Karen, brilliant! And thank you very much for the new pictures, they are great. I love his looks, he looks very tall - love that, too. Now the only thing to worry about is his screentime....... and perhaps his jacket ;-P).

I agree with everthing Renate said, wonderfully done, Karen! Do you have the script yet? Saw "Being John Malkovich" last night, he has grown old and fat. It was quite a spectacle to see him dance with just a towel wrapped around his waist.

(Moon) Do you have the script yet? No :-( (I did ask and haven't given up yet.) he has grown old and fat. It was quite a spectacle to see him dance with just a towel wrapped around his waist. One of my favorite scenes! That and a couple of others alone are worth the price of admission. Craig's Dance of Despair and Destruction is an absolute hoot!

Just lovely. While I agree with Cymbeline about his interesting "pushing forty" face, he still has a boyish, vulnerable look (at least in these pictures) which I quite love. I will be a sucker for his character. The London scenery looks stunning. Terrific work, Karen, in getting these shots and thanks Renate for setting them up. (Bethan) I reckon that CF ends up with IJ and MB with MH. Better check that wedding shot again. Looking forward to hearing your MLSF thoughts, Anne. We haven't discussed this one in a little bit. Bon Voyage, Evelyn. Have a safe and fruitful journey. Only one more week to get the scoop for SLOW. We'll be waiting to hear from you all, E., Ann, Mark, and ?

Moon, that is one of my favorite pictures! It is my wallpaper...Thank you!

Question about Colin Firth, has he ever done any audio books?

(Terry) has he ever done any audio books? Excellent question. I think I'd listen to a Windows user manual if he read it. A couple of other RFI's: Can anyone send me citation for McCarthy/Morrill book? Has the script of the play Another Country been published? Thanks to anyone who can furnish enlightenment.

(Heide) Only one more week to get the scoop for SLOW. We'll be waiting to hear from you all, E., Ann, Mark, and ? ???....Tineke?, Sabine?, Aishling and Mark's wife!Not all for both screenings. ~~~~~ (Cymbeline)Can anyone send me citation for McCarthy/Morrill book? See, I told ya' you'd be hooked :-)! "Some Other Rainbow" By John Mc Carthy and Jill Morrell ISBN 0-593-027299 Out of print , but if yu prevail with amazon they will get it. Or try the Out of Print bookstores on-line. Try Samuel French Drama bookstore for any of the play scripts. The drama bookshop in NYC recently got 3DOR .

Terry, CF has read "Comeback" by Dick Francis. Out of "print" now. He also did an audio play (on BBC, I believe) "The One Before The Last", but that was never published on tape.

That picture in Time Out would be from March since new photos will not be taken until Tuesday Why just Tuesday? Photos are often taken during rehearsals, too. I believe Colin has done two radio plays: the earlier one, Two Planks and a Passion, written and directed by Anthony Minghella in 1986, is not available on tape, as far as I know. Finally, some good news - my scanner is working again... ;-)

Why just Tuesday? Because that's when they told the photographer to come. ;-)

Because that's when they told the photographer to come. ;-) Karen, you take my breath away! Is there nothing you do not know? Apologies for being a distracted poster here. Am just doing too many things. Cannot say no to any interesting project! Speaking of which I do not think I shall be able to make the early sceenings of SLOW but am certainly working on the DH to take it in when it goes on general'ish release. If Mark can get his DW to go to Brixton I can surely lure my DH to the Screen on the Hill, Green or whatever.

(Allison)Speaking of which I do not think I shall be able to make the early sceenings of SLOW... That OK...there's enough of us going. I just didn't want Spring not to be represented at ODB's UK premiere of a film we're all vitally interested in. BTW...also good Spring delegation attending SUMMERFOLK the evening before at the National Theatre on Southbank. What a coup...JE one day (ODG) and ODB the next. :-DD ~~~~~~ Because that's when they told the photographer to come. ;-) Karen, you take my breath away! Is there nothing you do not know? LOL Karen gives new meaning to the phrase: "She's here, she's there...she's everywhere"...:-D

Sorry to dampen everyone's spirits but there is a very bad review for SLOW in Film Review magazine (UK), only 1out of 5stars., didn't bother to read it properly or buy the magazine, only words I remebered were something to the effect that Colin Firth seemed uncomfortable especially in scenes with his estranged wife (CG). I am beginning to wonder if Colin is after all such a good judge of a screenplay/project. re Londinium Karen, he looks okay but his eyes seem different, where are the brown pools to drown in!!(grammar?)

The Three Deers strike again! ;-) http://www.firth.com/donmar/3dor-nedtheo.htm

(Ann)but his eyes seem different, where are the brown pools to drown in My thought as well--his eyes look small--trick of the photography, makeup, light, bad night? Maybe they made him wear eye reduction contacts. I just read that he wore contacts in P&P to darken his eyes. Were they crazy? (Evelyn)See, I told ya' you'd be hooked Thanks for the citations. You are right; I'm absolutely hooked! I've read ATA (profound imo, and they really watered it down), COF (plot much changed, Simon less awful than on screen), have a copy of AMITC on order, and am now deep in Les Liaisons Dangereuses, in English translation I'm afraid. But here's something interesting. As you know, the novel is completely epistolary. In the middle of letter 23, from ODVicomte to Mme M, occur the words, "I do not deserve either this praise or this censure." I don't have a French edition, but if anyone does it would be fascinating to find out if this is a literal translation of LaClos's words. That is, did J.A. know this novel, which was published in 1782, and take the phrase from him, or did the translator know J.A. and adapt her phrase. Since P&P was originally written in 1796 and is believed to have been epistolary in its first version, and since a cousin of J.A.'s was married to a French nobleman, perhaps she was influenced by Liaisons. And indeed she had not many other novels by which to be influenced at that time. If you have covered this elsewhere or when, I beg your pardons. I am a latecomer to the rich harvest of the Firthian literary groves. (10 points off. Please moderate your stylistic excesses)

Bethan, I think that is the one you found? Thanks for alerting us. ;-)

(Ann)but his eyes seem different, where are the brown pools to drown in My thought as well--his eyes look small--trick of the photography, makeup, light, bad night? Maybe they made him wear eye reduction contacts. I just read that he wore contacts in P&P to darken his eyes. Were they crazy? (Evelyn)See, I told ya' you'd be hooked Thanks for the citations. You are right; I'm absolutely hooked! I've read ATA (profound imo, and they really watered it down), COF (plot much changed, Simon less awful than on screen), have a copy of AMITC on order, and am now deep in Les Liaisons Dangereuses, in English translation I'm afraid. But here's something interesting. As you know, the novel is completely epistolary. In the middle of letter 23, from ODVicomte to Mme M, occur the words, "I do not deserve either this praise or this censure." I don't have a French edition, but if anyone does it would be fascinating to find out if this is a literal translation of LaClos's words. That is, did J.A. know this novel, which was published in 1782, and take the phrase from him, or did the translator know J.A. and adapt her phrase. Since P&P was originally written in 1796 and is believed to have been epistolary in its first version, and since a cousin of J.A.'s was married to a French nobleman, perhaps she was influenced by Liaisons. And indeed she had not many other novels by which to be influenced at that time. If you have covered this elsewhere or when, I beg your pardons. I am a latecomer to the rich harvest of the Firthian literary groves. (10 points off. Please moderate your stylistic excesses)

Very nice pic, folks! despite the glasses which certainly don't do anything for the ripe chestnuts. What I love are the sideburns. Sorry my posting is on twice--don't know why, and I certainly would not wish to impose on your patiences more than necessary.

That picture in Time Out would be from March since new photos will not be taken until Tuesday Why just Tuesday? Photos are often taken during rehearsals, too. I believe Colin has done two radio plays: the earlier one, Two Planks and a Passion, written and directed by Anthony Minghella in 1986, is not available on tape, as far as I know. Finally, some good news - my scanner is working again... ;-)

"Technical" OT: Well, I must comment on this right now, it may interest Terry among other people. So far I was convinced that double postings result from going off- and then online again whilst still logged in on Spring. I still think that is part of the problem (and btw no one cannot seriously be expected to remember each time deliberately and consciously to go over to another web page before going offline, just because of that) - but this time I DID go back to my home page, then offline for an hour or so, then online a d straight to cf.com, and then back here... and immediately I was greeted by the sight of my own double post! From now on I shall apologize no more - and I suggest no one else should.

Great Arami! Now share those lovely pictures with us. :-D Renate, you are quick! 3Deers love 3DOR! How about linking the play discussion to the links there?

...And in case newcomers still wonder - yes, this program also "swallows" odd letters in the middle of every sixth line or so... (but, Terry, we are not complaining, really, are we, folks? ;-))

Oh, yes, and don't forget the year 2035... (was it?)

more OT: My experience with Netscape is, when you have posted yourself you have to actually close the window, then open a new one, and enter the board again. It is February 2036.... ;-)

Bethan, I think that is the one you found? Thanks for alerting us. ;-) Yep! Well done! only words I remebered were something to the effect that Colin Firth seemed uncomfortable especially in scenes with his estranged wife (CG). I am beginning to wonder if Colin is after all such a good judge of a screenplay/project. Don't panic Ann! I hate it when he gets bad reviews, but I'm rapidly losing faith in reviewers' judgement. So far we've had CF is "terrifically funny" (Women's Journal), "witty and charismatic", "anaemic" and "uncomfortable". And 3 stars, 2 stars, 1 star. It's obviously not everyone's cup of tea, but then he also got some bad reviews for Darcy, and some very bad reviews for "Valmont"!! We see things differently. I just can't gauge public taste anymore. I noticed that after only one week "The Winslow Boy" has disappeared without trace except a couple of London venues, and "Mad Cows" is everywhere. The lowest common denominator prevails.

Love the Time Out photo - bringing back all those memories! Colin can be such a nerd with so little effort (although the glasses, white shirt and pocket protector are required). May have to buy that issue when it shows up on our shores next week. Definitely have Kirsten add that one to our discussion pages when she gets a chance. Cymbeline: In my edition, the phrase is translated as: 'I deserve,' I replied, 'neither the compliment nor the reproof; and I cannot think that, with all your intelligence, you have yet arrived at an understanding of me. Unless someone here has the original French, I could forward it on to someone who would likely know. But don't you just love the book though. I'm interested in your take on the book and whether you think Forman was all wet or had some basis for way he had Valmont behave. (Ann) I am beginning to wonder if Colin is after all such a good judge of a screenplay/project. I wouldn't worry too much. The reviews will be all over the board on this one, but lucky you gets to see it yourself to judge. While Colin may have wanted to lend his support to a worthy screenwriter and new director, I doubt he would do it if he didn't like the screenplay. Re: OTs I've only experienced a double post (with Netscape) when I've submitted a message and then inadvertently hit Reload/Refresh while in the same topic.

Good pic of Ned, most of the 3 DOR pics were of Walker and that ugly green sweater.Thanks ....Three Deers and Bethan. ~~~ A week from today you will get the **real** SLOW review from AnnW.... unvarnished, objective...etc.:-D ~~~~~ Sorry to hear The Winslow Boy has had such little success in UK...I personally consider it the outstanding film of the year.Perhaps it will do better on video...since that is a more popular media there.

unvarnished, objective..etc Evelyn, you left out unbiased, some hope. Bethan who gave Darcy bad reviews!!! and I bet Mad Cows won't be there next week, not if word of mouth has anything to do with it and there are some pretty good films out this week in the UK, among them a British film hailed as the next Monty "East is East", I expect that to do very well. But it is all hype really, my eldest son went to see TBW Project and said it was the most over-hyped boring film he has ever been to, he said he was looking forward to be scared and it was a complete let-down.

Thanks for the comments on the double postings etc. I shall look in to this more. I thought it was from hitting the enter key twice or holding it too long. There are telnet accounts available to anyone having a hard time on the web. Telnet, once you learn it, is a very fast, reliable way to access this conferncing system. And thanks for the heads up on the CF audio book, what is the subject matter of this book."Comeback" by Dick Francis, but it's too bad the books out of print. It's such a treat to hear a book read by an English person.

Terry, if you smile nicely at some Firthettes, I'm sure one of them will let you have a bootleg copy. The book is about some underhand rivalry in a racing stable... the focus point is a cut-by-stitch detailed description of an intricate veterinary operation on a horse's stomach, and I swear I have never come across a more boring passage read by a more fascinating voice... but then, as some say, he could read from a phone book and sound rivetting.

There's some new info about "Turn of the Screw" at imdb.com. It is to be shown on 26 December (Boxing Day). That's a good slot...better than Christmas Day in terms of television watching figures. The cinematography (which I always think is very important) is by a David Odd who was responsible for "Our Mutual Friend" and "Great Expectations".

(Bethan), I just can't gauge public taste anymore. The lowest common denominator prevails. How true! And to top it off the hereditaries have been extinguished. A very sad state of affairs. A very sad day for GB.

(Arami)From now on I shall apologize no more - and I suggest no one else should. Why should you/we??

(Heide) Only one more week to get the scoop for SLOW. We'll be waiting to hear from you all, E., Ann, Mark, and ? I'll try to be there as well. I noticed that when you get tickets on the day itself, you can get a student discount. I'll definately see Summerfolk on the 11th, and 3DOR on Saturday, Nov 13th. I can't wait!!!

Great to catch up on all that has been happening at 123.

Karen, amazing work , as always. What would we do without you? Thank you so much. A few bits in the press. Sainsbury's(LOL) has 3DOR as "play of the month" with the small article completely from EMG's point of view and how they knew they had "something special" together when they performed it in March etc Go read for free. Also in the Guardian, a bit of a recycle, but "especially Firth" is mentioned in terms of great performances.

Re the Donmar Impasse - Those of you who get the Parade supplement with your Sunday papers may have seen this question in Walter Scott's Personality Parade in today's issue (I know, I know, but we who are stuck out here in the wilds of the Wessex estate have to get our intellectual stimulation where we can). Question: How do stars of, say, Julia Roberts' magnitude handle fan mail? Do they even read it? Answer: Rarely. ... It's a matter not only of volume but also of security--and you don't have to be a superstar like Roberts. Celebrities must maintain several levels of removal from fans because of threats from stalkers ... Security expert Gavin de Becker advises clients not to answer fan mail even with a form letter. Any personal greeting might be misinterpreted as an invitation to the sort of harassment that has plagued Madonna and Jodie Foster. That doesn't hold out much hope for a cozy chat session after the performance, does it? And does this explain the lack of response from the agent? Is it because of the crazy people that ODB's agent is prevented from exercising what would normally be common courtesy toward us nice Volvo ladies (was that the phrase and was it Moon's?) Sad if so.

I should have mentioned that the article is in the Sainsbury's own magazine. It is one of our supermarkets for those not in the know!! BTW i hate the "Colin "Mr Darcy" Firth" mention fron the Guardian. Hope we won't see any more snippets along those lines. Pigs might fly and ODB would join us for an online chat-------!!!!

Re: Volvo ladies....Cymbeline, as far as I remember, the term Volvo ladies was in a British paper last spring. Colin fans were described as ladies who have left their Volvos and labrador dogs behind to crowd in the Donmar lobby!

Thanks for the tip re The Sainsbury Magazine Lizza and I am very glad to hear that there is something inone of the Sunday papers, absolutely silch in The Sundaty Times. BTW please let us know how you get on on Saturday, audience reaction etc and whether or not he comes down to the foyer again, he just might on Saturday and is is near the beginning of the run. Glad to hear you are going to make it to London, Tineke.

Hi Lizza! Nice to see you here again!

Sorry Ann, I should have said it was yesterday's paper. Today there is nothing in Observer or Indie that I can see. I will be taking your good wishes (and other such sentiments!!) with me Elena on Saturday!! And Drool's of course!! Ann, I don't know if he will come down between shows. I think that Evelyn said JE sometimes popped out for a sandwich in between. Here's hoping.

Ann, i just emailed you and had it returned. Could you mail me and then I can reply. Thanks!!

Yes, Volvo ladies came from an article about the last Donmar run that was printed in The Tatler. Thanks for the news items, Lizza. Did the EMcG one also give recipes? ;-D

(Cymbeline)That doesn't hold out much hope for a cozy chat session after the performance, does it? Well, he didn�t seem too scared or security-concerned in March you know, he put his hand around numerous fans in numerous pictures with no hesitation etc. Actually I was a bit surprised that he didn�t seem to have a bunch of body guards around and I�m very happy about it because it shows that he has no specially bad experiences about meeting fans, thank God.

LOL Karen!!

Re Sainsbury's - now we know where you get your groceries and bog rolls, Lizza. Good luck on Saturday, and at the risk of repeating Ann's entreaties, please let us know how you get on (i.e. the dirt). We ladies left behind are looking forward to an active weekend next week thanks to you ladies in London and Brixton. (Elena) Well, he didn�t seem too scared or security-concerned in March you know, he put his hand around numerous fans in numerous pictures with no hesitation etc. I for one would have willingly allowed him to frisk me first.

And Heide ,as we all know, YOU were on full security alert with ODB!! Up close and secure, if you ask me!!

I will of course, keep you fully briefed. I feel much more nervous, excited and generally emotional than I did in the week prior to our visit in March. I think because it is not an unknown quantity really. I think I shall cry if they have reblocked the record player scene, I will be sitting on my hands at that point(Just that point? LOL) Do you want "spoilers" next week re scenery, costumes etc? Presuming there are a few "tweaks" etc

Volvo ladies came from an article about the last Donmar run that was printed in The Tatler. But, as I remember they were quoting the clowns at the Box Office...cause I called them on it when I went to get my TRT tickets...and James laughed!! They're a bunch of teasers...Can't wait to see them again :-D

Lizza, I�m so excited for you. Just to think that you�ll see him so soon! Don�t know about anybody else but I would very much like to hear every single detail you can tell us about your Saturday experience, it won�t spoil anything for me; I�ll devour it! (Lizza)I feel much more nervous, excited and generally emotional than I did in the week prior to our visit in March. That�s interesting (and almost scary), I�m expecting to be much less nervous and emotional this time!....But I know, things can change very much when January comes closer.

Hey..here's the count so far: 5 Ehleites going to Summerfolk on Thursday evening 4 Firthalites " " SLOW Premiere 4 " " " SLOW on Sat. night (am counting Mark's wife!) 3 " " " 3 DOR " Sat. matinee(am counting Lizza's mum) If I can keep my eyelids from collapsing and get a return ticket, I might go on to see 3 DOR on Wed. when I pick up the Jan. tickets...but no promises. ~~~~~~ I'm pretty proud of Springfolks!!

And Heide didn't think that anyone was going to go..... Oh ye of little faith, Heide!!:-D

Excuse me for being out of touch, but is it Aishling who is also going to the matinee? (Sorry if your name is not correct!)

BTW Valmont is on Film Four tomorrow night.

Identity of "mystery matinee" goer is solved. Thanks Evelyn.

VOTE NOW: BRITISH THEATRE WEBSITE Murph's website for Colin is one of the top four nominations for Best British Actor website. Go to it http://britishtheatre.about.com/arts/perfarts/britishtheatre/library/weekly/blabtwa2.htm

Wow, Murph! Nominated with TWO pages at once! And so well deserved. ;-) CONGRATS!!!

Do you want "spoilers" next week re scenery, costumes etc? Speaking for myself alone of course, WE WANT EVERYTHING. Yes, I am shouting here. We want to know what it was like being in the presence, the breathing, the smells, the voice, the look, the hands, the eyes. We want to know!

The feet!

LOL! ....The teeth?

And I realize many of you would like to forget about this particular little detail, but: Was Livia there, what was she wearing and how did she look and yes, were there any more bon mots from the feminine side of the alliance?? :-)

also I was wondering if,as this is a longer run, there would be more scenery, it was very minimal last time, but fine.Also whether there are any changes to last time.Thanks Lizza.

Uh-oh. My sporadic social life seems to have struck and there is talk of a 30th birthday party to attend on Saturday evening, so I may let everybody down on the SLOW review (and it does feel like letting people down, having seen the recent posts). Thank goodness so many others are going. Apologies in advance, although I still have the tickets and if the party's not a must-go, I might still try to point us in a Brixton direction (unless anyone out there can use the tickets with more certainty?) Incidentally my wife watched and adored the P&P serial without noting CF as a man to pursue to the ends of the earth! So I don't feel it's my place to advocate his charms and constantly remind her how enthralling Mr Darcy was - there's such a thing as digging your own grave. Cymbeline, if you still want to get hold of McCarthy/Morrell's Some Other Rainbow, I can borrow my sister's copy for a few months and wing it out to you. To make up for being such a useless failure, I might potter down to the SouthBank for the beginning of the "SLOW" premiere on Friday in my lunch break, just in case there's a dramatic personal appearance by the man himself.

Definitely the teeth! And yes definitely Livia (started to type Lydia there!) We are above being (female)dogs in the manger, are we not, Firthettes? I always think of her as Firthette in chief. I mean she must have the same discerning eye we have. She was just in the right place at the right time. It could have been any one of us! Mark, you are very kind to offer the loan of SOR. I have Amazon searching for it, so before I put you to the trouble, let me see what they come up with--they will let me know before long I believe either way. If they strike out, I will get in touch. Thanks! Oh, and you are not a useless failure, and I always think a trip to the cinema makes the best kind of birthday party. And as for YDW, watching and adoring P&P without noting CF as a man to pursue to the ends of the earth is what she told you, right?

I would like to know aboout the nuances of his performance. Has he done something different? Is his accent improved? As Cymbeline said, we want to know everything, no detail is too small. And, if you get to talk to him, do invite him to check out cf.com. :-D

(Moon)Is his accent improved? I liked his accent in March! ~~~~~~~~ Mark, pl. don't feel you are letting us down on Saturday night...my companion has all the confidence in the world!! If ODB shows on Friday, I'll hold him there for you :-) Warning: Too much CF exposure (no pun intended) might encourage wife to become a Firthette!!

(Evelyn)Warning: Too much CF exposure (no pun intended) might encourage wife to become a Firthette!! LOL! Evelyn, I do think you have a pun intended: Too much CF exposure to wife might dig out your own grave (as Mark said).

I will oblige with all details, none too small to be noted!! The major question is has he found some trousers with a decent zip?? Those of you there last March know what I mean!

Have a great trip over everyone. Just to say it is the lord Mayor's procession in London on Saturday. Fireworks from Vauxhall bridge etc pre LFF, if any of you fancy a spectacle. But then ODB provides combustion enough!!

A nice mention in The Evening Standard tonight for 3 Days of Rain - an excerpt:- "Taking a fresh view across the Pond. - If one were to judge America solely on the plays from across the Atlantic that are well received in Britain, one could be forgiven for thinking it consisted of little more than trailer-park trash who speak mostly in monosyllables. Or so such erstwhile London successes as Tracy Lett's Killer Joe and Rebecca Gilman's The Glory of Living, among many others, have suggested. It's against that perception - a view of the States guaranteed to leave British audiences feeling superior - that one expecially welcomes the return to the Donmar Warehouse this week of R.G's Three Days of Rain. Greenberg's play was first seen in London last March as the runaway hit of the Dopnmar's three-play American imports season, with the same performers (CF,EMcG & DM) who are reteaming for this extended run. " The rest is mostly about Richard Gereenberg and there is a picture of Colin & DM, with the spectacles!

Good sleuthing Ann! Thank you. Perhaps we can continue to hope for more from other publications this week too.

Here is the review on This is London: http://www.thisislondon.com/dynamic/hottx/theatre/bottom_direct.html Colin gets a rave review!

Ann - is it the same pic as in Time Out?

Click on Opening this week, then find 3DOR.

Ann - is it the same pic as in Time Out?

A little teasing for those of us left behind. ;-)

Moon, the review at This is London ("Decades after J.B. Priestly...") is by Nicholas De Jongh from March. Or is there another one? Ann, your quote from the Evening Standard appears new...but that "trailer park trash" line was used before by Charles Spencer in his Telegraph review. (certain words stick in your mind) Interesting coincidence they mention Tracy Letts' Killer Joe. Tracy Letts played Ned/Walker here in Chicago.

That may be an old review, but one can't read The force of Colin Firth's remarkable acting transcends the mere erotic appeal that on television made him the fantasy play-thing of so many women enough times, can one?

My thoughts exactly, Eileen! Especially after seeing little brother as a Baron fairy with the very red hair and blue eyes.

The major question is has he found some trousers with a decent zip?? Those of you there last March know what I mean! Well, don't keep the rest of us in the dark!

(Ann)as this is a longer run, there would be more scenery I expect that nothing in that department will be changed. Why should they change a thing in a sell-out performance? The minimal scenery is an essential part of the play IMO, that emptiness I mean. The only changes will probably be the ones in the individual performances of actors and that�s a very interesting thing to see. The first run was seven months ago and many things have happened in the minds of the actors and how they perceive their roles in the play.

(Cymbeline)Well, don't keep the rest of us in the dark! Cymbeline, I was there and I don�t know what Lizza is talking about, bwaaa! I guess my eyes were somewhere else than everybody else�s ;-D

Arami this is not the same photo as Time Out but I have to say it isn't a very good photo, Colin's mouth is blurred, in this one DM is on the left of Colin as you look at the photo and DM is pointing his finger. I love the ES, it also has Valmont as "Film of the Night". BTW Karen, the article is written by Matt Wolf.

Now come Elena, methinks you protest too much!! At the matinee performance his trousers were only half done up. I remarked to the lady next to me (I did not know her, but ODB has this effect on his audiences) who said that they had been the same the previous night too. Cue loads of jokes about wardrobe mistresses etc and some witty and wonderful remarks from Heide, Karen et al.

Elena , I would have believed you but it is not as if there was a lot of scenery for your eyes to be diverted by and DM is not your type!!! Modesty becomes you! Anyway by now I am sure he will have new trousers/ new zip or a more efficient dresser(!), either way I feel it is my duty to take note on Saturday and report this small but important detail.

Lizza was not alone in noticing the partially zipped trousers... it was very distracting (particularly if you were sitting in the front row) ;-D Do pay close attention to every detail. Somehow I doubt the wardrobe will change much, but would be nice if he had another sweater!

Especially after seeing little brother as a Baron fairy with the very red hair and blue eyes. Wasn't that embarassing? He better stick to period pieces..esp. the uniform in Far From the Madding Crowd. Also noticed that Lady Sarah in The Aristocrats will be the governess in TOTS. Jodhi May? She's a good actress...not v. pretty. ~~~~~~ .. would be nice if he had another sweater! Or wash it :-D

.. would be nice if he had another sweater! (Evelyn) Or wash it :-D You expect a flaneur to know the whereabouts of a dry cleaners or a washing machine (let alone know how to operate one)!! The man couldn't order a cheeseburger in a restaurant. ;-D

The Mail on Sunday listed 3DOR as one of the Arts events of the next seven days. The problem, in terms of coverage, is that there won't be any reviews as it's a re-run and the Donmar don't advertise. But there have been quite a few honourable mentions overall (oh, and a photo of CF and EM in Saturday's Times Metro section, but an old one). BTW I love the Sainsbury's mention....he must be one of their favourite customers! Karen, (our wonderful source of all knowledge!), do you think that the new promotional photos will appear anywhere? I'm really looking forward to reading all your reports, zippers, accents, spouse support, whatever. Detachable taps. Basic question, although I'll find out for myself eventually, why are CF and EM lying on the bed together? And am also rather anxiously awaiting a report on SLOW! Nigerian writing is often rather lyrical/magical, and optimistic, almost innocent, in tone, and our current crop of critics only seem to favour gritty social realism. I noticed to my horror that Timeout's film critic gave "Nil by Mouth" and "Orphans" (haven't seen this, but it apparently features continuous obscene language, and explicit scenes of self abuse) as his two bestever British Films. Hey, but they're real! SLOW with its 12 rating (no sex, iolence or bad language) won't hold much appeal! But I hope it has a very discerning audience on Friday/Saturday, and thanks to Ann, Evelyn, Mark, and everyone else who is going. BTW Colin's junior bro was in some Shakespeare for the Millennium dramatisations on the radio recently....Mark Antony in "Julius Caesar", can't remember the other.

why are CF and EM lying on the bed together? That would be Ned and Lina at the culmination of their "three days of rain." :-D Is there a picture of that in one of the papers? Do we all remember how EM kept snuggling up against him? Grrrrrrr!! And, yes, the pictures taken tomorrow will be released to the press by the end of the week.

Here's the entire article by Matt Wolf in the Evening Standard: EVENING STANDARD: TAKING A FRESH VIEW ACROSS THE POND IF one were to judge America solely on the plays from across the Atlantic that are well received in Britain, one could be forgiven for thinking it consisted of little more than trailer-park trash who speak mostly in monosyllables. Or so such erstwhile London successes as Tracy Letts's Killer Joe and Rebecca Gilman's The Glory of Living, among many others, have suggested. It's against that perception - a view of the States guaranteed to leave British audiences feeling superior - that one especially welcomes the return to the Donmar Warehouse this week of Richard Greenberg's Three Days of Rain. Greenberg's play was first seen in London last March as the runaway hit of the Donmar's three-play American imports season, with the same performers (Colin Firth, Elizabeth McGovern and David Morrissey) who are reteaming for this extended run. In context, it's almost as if Greenberg's play contains specific rebuttals to the criticisms levelled against American plays abroad. You want irony? Three Days of Rain is fuelled by a central irony that won't be revealed here, along with a prevailing loquaciousness t odds with the heightened inarticulacy of, say, Sam Shepard and David Mamet. Nor does he trade in the TV movie-of-the-week teariness that raises British hackles. 'That's sentimental,' snaps budding architect Firth to McGovern, his bride-to-be, at one point as if to squash any such tendencies in the play itself. It is little surprise, then, that Greenberg tends to be compared to droll American satirists of a bygone era such as Philip Barry (The Philadelphia Story) more than he does to his own generation. He's a dramatist out of time whose play deals teasingly with time. (Firth and McGovern play an estranged brother and sister in Act One, and their own parents 35 years earlier in Act Two.) The result looks set to be the first international success for Greenberg, 41, who has so far written 12 plays. In 1988 he became the overnight darling of then-New York Times critic Frank Rich with a play, Eastern Standard, that was regarded as a defining expos of Yuppie values. This summer saw the New York premiere of arguably his most personal play - a black comedy, Hurrah at Last, about a writer seemingly struck down with an Aids-like disease. Much the same happened to Greenberg several years ago; he turned out to have what the play describes as 'a curable cancer'. The next one, due to open off Broadway next year, may make the boldest statement yet about his burgeoning reputation: its title, quite simply, is The Dazzle.

Where is the picture with the spectacles?

Do we all remember how EM kept snuggling up against him? Grrrrrrr!! How can I forget? She was sliding her hands all over him while they're on that bed. I doubt the scenery will change much but I hope they don't move that mattress! BTW, as one who refused to sit in the front row, I can say that the zipper at half-mast was clearly viewed throughout the theater. 'Course training Evelyn's opera glasses on him from the fourth row didn't hurt. And Lizza, be sure to report if Walker/Ned smokes this time. Mark, of course you are forgiven if you can't make it to SLOW. You should know though that CF-sighting has often led to bestowing titles here. If you do some CF-sleuthing on your lunch hour, don't be surprised if you become Sir Mark.

LOL About.com is running a poll...here are the results: Was Leprechauns the worst thing you've ever seen or what? Yep, it sure was. (55) 47% It wasn't so bad. (24) 21% Shut up, it ruled. (9) 8% What are you talking about? (28) 24%

Do we all remember how EM kept snuggling up against him? And which of us would not in those circs (or any others), fantasy plaything that he is!

Lucie, haven't you seen this yet? http://www.firth.com/donmar/3dor-nedtheo.htm

No, I hadn't seen this one. Thanks Arami. BTW our boy is down 300 votes

I can't get anything to come up when I click on the 3 Deers Archives except a message that it is still under construction.

Do we all remember how EM kept snuggling up against him? Grrrrrrr!! Can you blame her? That is COLIN FIRTH! How could anybody resist? LOL about CF's zipper. So definitely want to know about it this time! I wish I were his dress person (valet?), I would personally make sure that zipper works well ;-)

Hate to see Colin steadily falling behind What's-his-face after forging ahead so well earlier. Keep your hands (and votes) in. (Incidentally, I think you can get more than 5 a day in but has nothing to do with logging in, but rather who voted last. If you did, you can't again ... another good reason to keep the site active ... lets someone else in again) http://www.freevote.com/booth/ladyviola

(Heide)I can say that the zipper at half-mast was clearly viewed throughout the theater. This is terrible, I did not notice it! I have missed a very important theatrical effect! And I did actually glance at that direction once or twice.

(KJArt) Hate to see Colin steadily falling behind What's-his-face after forging ahead so well earlier. Remember that What's-his-face just opened in a major movie in the States that was discussed on Jim Lehrer last night. Which is to say that it takes a big media deal to outdo our boy. This is just a flash in the pan surge following opening weekend which will quickly die out whereas the army of the faithful will put ODB back in first place and keep him there. The other night Bob Mondello, DC movie critic, said on the radio that What's-his-face came across as a "doughy middle-management type" in The Insider. No one will ever say that about ODB!

Note to 3 Deers: I think you can relabel the Time Out picture for the current run. That forelock of hair bothered me and I've compared it against the publicity stills from March and the candids taken in the lobby. Colin's hair was much more closely cropped then. In addition, I've now found out that "some" shots were taken before, but more were taken today. So the Time Out is a new one!!

Mornin' all. Been away for a while worrying about a decision - not directly related to The Firth, I know (I will attempt to make a connection later on, so bear with me...), but I am quitting Columbia and have accepted a job with Goldman Sachs, a financial firm, in London. I will be their European economist. Anyway, the question is this - where should I live? At the moment I have a teeny house in Barnes, which is in south-west London and far too far for me to walk to work, which is a new requirement. (I do it here and it is BLISS not having to commute.) So I have narrowed it down to a flat on the south bank of the Thames, near Bankside and the Globe, or one in Clerkenwell, which is basically Islington. Winter persuaded me to ask the Firthettes for advice, but I know this is just because SHE reckoned you would all say Islington. (The better for Firthettes to come and stay and to stalk Colin.....) Despite that, asking I am.....MarkG, where are you, if you work at Canary Wharf? The GS office is at the eastern end of Fleet St. Finally, I'm not qualified to pass comment about sexiness but I do think Russel Crowe is an excellent actor. He was good in L.A. Confidential and v. good in The Insider, which I saw over the week-end. Though I guess acting is not what the poll is about, so.... (And a related question for Winter: is Colin sexy, or have you just been socially conditioned to think he is? ;-))

(Ben)I am quitting Columbia and have accepted a job with Goldman Sachs, a financial firm, in London. I will be their European economist. Congratulations! A friend of mine works for Goldman Sachs here, in USA. It is a very good company to work with according to her (she is a Financial Analysis).

(Elena) The only changes will probably be the ones in the individual performances of actors and that�s a very interesting thing to see. The first run was seven months ago and many things have happened in the minds of the actors and how they perceive their roles in the play. Good point, Elena, not to mention that it's been a busy seven months for ODB. David Morrissey was recently quoted as saying the cast only had two weeks to rehearse for that first run. If Colin was that good after such limited rehearsing, I can't wait to hear how he does this time around (assuming they put in more than two weeks). Let's hope Elizabeth does a little better with her southern accent. As for Leprechauns--ugh. Nice scenery. Was waiting with bated breath to see if the expression on Roger Daltrey's face ever changed. Seeing winged Jon was a hoot. He reminded me of Wessex. At the fairy dance I was waiting for him to say "is she fertile?" I don't think you can get Yankee games in either Bankside or Islington, Ben. But you have until April to figure out a work-around.

Thanks, Xian. I'm bloody nervous about it, but I think I've made the right decision. Eileen, you're right. No Yankees is one of the more catastrophic implications of the move. I'll be reduced to Arsenal, for God's sake. With any luck, I'll visit NYC a fair bit for work, and have clients take me to the Stadium. I'll probably end up with better seats than before. And a cable channel shows one MLB game each week, at least. Besides, I was told by an thoroughly dubious fortune teller on 6th Ave. last week that if I was particularly good in this life, I would come back in the next as Derek Jeter. Which ain't 'alf bad. Anyway, I'll be there (good old Blighty) in the new year and would love to meet up with those coming over for The Pilgrimage. What's the schedule? (On the subject, my acting career has been reborn! I've a friend who is a film student here in NYC and she called last night to ask me to play Liberace's hands in one of her student movies. From the tiniest acorns....They already have someone to play the Great Man, thank God, but he can't even pretend to play the piano, so I must encrust my fingers with precious stones and bang away aimlessly at a keyboard for three hours next Tuesday. Darling, I'll do anything for the exposure.)

Ben, I would strongly recommend Clerkenwell. It would be so convenient for work and it is such a lively up and coming area now. It would be a great investment. (and that advice has nothing to do with ODB!) Talkinof whom: From todays ES, half page spread with picture of CF and EMcG. "Raining pleasure and pain" "In its brief run duting the Donmar's American import season, RG's startling 3DOR established itself as one of the plays of the year. RL's impeccable production boasts exquisite performances from CF and EMcG...joining DM as siblings and childhood friends striving to understand their parents." I like that play of the year quote. I am really beginning to think that CF might at least be nominated for an Olivier!!!! I think his rejection of the heartthrob label after P&P might have annoyed feature writers but I think it has increased his reputation amongst the critics.

BTW, Ben.... meant to say wow about the job. Working for Goldman Sachs in such a senior position, surely Mayfair might be more in your line:-)))

(Heide) don't be surprised if you become Sir Mark. Heide, given the astonishing exploits of Dame Winter and Lady (?) Susan (which I have now bothered to go back and read), I don't think strolling down by the river on my lunch hour qualifies for a knighthood, especially given my impending failure to attend an important screening in my own hometown. But thank you anyway. Ben, I'm not on the Wharf, but in the City proper. I'm sure you know London as well as I do (where walking to work is a very unusual luxury), but your choice of location depends, of course, on your taste and budget. Clerkenwell's trendier than I could handle myself. Your other choices are the South Bank and Islington, although there are surprising residential bits all over, e.g. Bloomsbury, Soho, the Barbican, Waterloo(!). If buying, Allison's investment advice is probably spot on.

Congrats on the job, Ben. My vote is for Clerkenwell too (like I know what I'm talking about...) We can all meet up at Moro's. BTW, an economist I knew went to work (I think) at Goldman in NY. Would've been fairly senior there as he was already a VP here and left in a huff because he didn't get the top job. About that voting poll...The Russell Crowe supporters have sunk to new lows. I'm convinced that they've brought on some programming support to circumvent voting restrictions. If you go there and keep hitting reload, you will see what I mean. The votes are piling up by the second. Can't be done manually. No way. So as one good turn deserves another, I've emailed the woman who is sponsoring the voting booth to let her know and hope that she yanks Crowe off the list because of unfair tactics! Just doin my thing.

There is definitely something wrong with the voting booth, I inadvertently, of course, notched up 9 votes in one go. I was rather annoyed as the RC votes were going up in hundreds to my 9.

Thanks, Allison, Mark and Karen (what's the guy's name?). I'm sceptical about titles - I will be a "Vice President" and "European economist" but I'll probably just be doing the photcopying and making the tea. Or perhaps that's the "Chief Administrative Machinist" and the "Refreshment Beverage Executive". Whatever. I know walking is a luxury in London, Mark, but it's one I'm determined to indulge in, if I can possibly manage it. I've been so spoiled here - I just roll out of bed and saunter into work a fe minutes later. The mere thought of being crammed into a boiling Underground carriage two hours a day, my nose crammed up some oaf's armpit, is enough to make me queasy. Anyway, I'm comin' 'ome, I'm comin' 'ome......football's comin' home....(football reference) for Thanksgiving to check out some places. Who wants a drink? And where, again, can a find out the timetable for Jan., or is the silence a diplomatic way of telling me you'd rather swim across the Atlantic with one hand tied behind your backs than give the game away? Ave Firthius! Coltores Crovium in hades computrescerent et ab suis felli pestilentis obsaterent.

I gave up on ladyviola. The whole thing seems pretty arbitrary to me. Liberace's hands, Ben? LOL! Walker's settled on that Donmar bed...break a leg*, Colin! *'good luck' in American theater-ese

Congrats to Ben....sounds like a very prestigious job. And a movie debut to boot! BTW, drawing on my amazing powers of trivial recall (important things, I forget) I seem to remember that Peter Schwabach, the director of "Secret Laughter of Women", which we are anxiously awaiting, directed at the Oxford Playhouse, but also worked in Corporate Finance at Goldman Sachs. You don't, by any incredible cyber-coincidence, happen to know him? :-) My vote is for Clerkenwell too (like I know what I'm talking about(Karen) LOL! I think his rejection of the heartthrob label after P&P might have annoyed feature writers but I think it has increased his reputation amongst the critics. (Allison) I agree. Certainly hope so anyway!

(Ann) There is definitely something wrong with the voting booth I agree. Therefore, my rules of thumb is "if you can't win, get the other guy disqualified." Sound and logical approach (from the city that delivered the White House to JFK) (Ben) what's the guy's name? Amazing that I left off such a detail... His name is Steve Strongin. And at my place "titles" were not easy to come by and were equal to one notch above in the private sector. I believe he handed out the donuts at FOMC meetings.

And our rendezvouz with destiny (I mean with Firth) is January 14 & 15 (evening performances) e pluribus unum

Ave Firthius! Coltores Crovium in hades computrescerent et ab suis felli pestilentis obsaterent. Ben, what are you talking about?....William of Wykeham has a lot to answer for:-)

Nunc est bibendum! Congratulations, Ben! Clerkenwell gets my vote as well. It will be an easy distance. Since you will be their European economist, I will ask the first question: Will the UK drop the pound in favor of the ecu (or whatever it is called)?

I agree there is something going on yeasterday at this time ODB was ahead by by about 350 votes, now he's behind by 1800

I have just visited the Australian Cinefile website and there are 3 reviews for MLSF., 1 definitely for, 2 mixed with one of the mixed very good for Colin. Cathey & Anne have you seen any other reviews? I think it is interesting that the most positive review was by a woman who said Colin was "wonderful". Oh I really can't wait to see this film. (From reading all the reviews I do wish they could have done something differently with the editing, all the reviews praise the acting, and I don't just mean the e 3).

Hey, Ben, Congrats, what markets will you be watching? I was watching Cable/Media (um, yeah, hot market, until the analyst went to CIBC World Markets and took the good co's with him!) now, I'm stuck with watching Microsoft not get beat up and Business/Staffing industry. (I work for investment bank in Boston, small, very small)(can we say boring). Oh and how does this tie in with Colin Firth? I don't know but if someone can tell me, I'll be real happy! Oh and news on the Laura front? Well I've been not myself lately (to say the least! didn't even watch baby bro on the Telly Sun and Mon.) was in bed sleeping because I've been diagnosed with and get this--MONONUCLEOSIS (probably spelt wrong). Anyway, I'm off to bed.

Oh dear, Laura has the kissing disease ;-). Sorry, I shouldn't kid as I know this is a debilitating illness and you must be totally exhausted. So fatigued in fact that you couldn't watch the junior Firth's debut as a fairy prince (my fingers are actually shuddering as I type Firth and fairy in the same sentence). Belive me, you are better off having missed it :-). Ben, congratulations on the new job! Welcome back to the private sector. Although I'm sure you will miss the lofty halls of academia there is a lot to like about mixing it up in the for-profit sector too. I hope you enjoy the change of pace. And a budding film career as well? Good God, the mind fairly reels at the possibilities. What could be next? Hand model for Palmolive dish soap? Product pointer for The Price is Right? And to think it all started with Liberace's hands. Are you going to try and imitate his flamboyant style? Better practice those glissandos :-)? Since you mentioned Dame Winter, hellloooooooo DW. Are you out there, dear? We miss you!

Ann no not yet. But I will say what I think of the film on Friday or Saturday when I have come down to earth. Our West Australian reviews come out on Thursday so I must buy one. Our movie show is on tonight but unfortunately I shall be out so I have no idea if it is mentioned. Perhaps Cathey will watch it. By the way I have a nephew who lives in Islington and is an author, I intend to visit and perhaps stay next time I am in U.K.

(Anne) By the way I have a nephew who lives in Islington and is an author *fingers crossed* Please tell us, Anne, that your nephew's first name is Nick!! :-D

He has written a best seller though - about how to win at the Casino - now he has six books being published this Christmas and are on Amazon.

He has written a best seller though - about how to win at the Casino - now he has six books being published this Christmas and are on Amazon.

Anne, What is your nephews name and do you know the names of the books? Go to 3 Deers, click on Roles Project, look at the picture above filmography. Tell me is Colin firth sexy or not. Believe me I do not have to be programed to appreciate this man, not only for his looks but his unbelievable talent.

Arami,when I click on http://www.firth.com/donmar/3dor-nedtheo.htm I get file not found.

The Afirthionado is down. What's up?

I was setting up some new web sites last nights and must have messed things up. I just rebooted the machine remotely, so let's see what happens when it comes back up. Check it and see and keep me posted.

(Ben)(And a related question for Winter: is Colin sexy, or have you just been socially conditioned to think he is? ;-)) Oh-- this is absolutely, positively a result of social conditioning. Hours of videotape, pages of magazine spreads, hours on the Internet. But I didn't say it was a bad thing, did I? Being a product of the fandom-machine isn't so bad. ;-) Hi all... just finished grading 250 midterm exams. Will catch up on the msgs. and write back. As for Russell Crowe-- he's got my vote. Best job of an Australian doing an American accent, IMO. Well, him and Portia de Rossi.

Anyway, the question is this - where should I live? At the moment I have a teeny house in Barnes, which is in south-west London and far too far for me to walk to work, which is a new requirement. (I do it here and it is BLISS not having to commute.) So I have narrowed it down to a flat on the south bank of the Thames, near Bankside and the Globe, or one in Clerkenwell, which is basically Islington. Congrats! I like both choices, Ben. If I were buying it would be Clerkenwell, but they are both very hot real estate. Islington proper (Upper Street) is too far to walk to the City, don't you think? There was an article in the ES site (thisislondon) last week about the richest and poorest post codes in London. You might want to look at it, just for the data points about quality of life and prospects.

Thanks for the advice. I will check it all out in a couple of weeks. (STILL no takers for a drink OR meeting up in January. A pox on you all.) I think I will start by renting. If I buy after only a couple of weeks of looking I will surely screw up. Welcome back to the private sector. Although I'm sure you will miss the lofty halls of academia there is a lot to like about mixing it up in the for-profit sector too. I hope you enjoy the change of pace. (Jana) Bloody nerve-wracking...but I hope I will like it. By the way, the little scrap of Latin I quoted was recently uncovered at a Hollywood dig. The prescient Roman Firthettia - we can only presume she was a member of this exclusive and erudite group - had written Hail The Firth! May Crowe's supporters rot in hell and choke on their own noxious bile! Strong stuff, but the Firthettiae were not known for their moderation. Then or now.

LOL! I got as far as "..in hades..." and was about to start deciphering the rest with the help of my pocket verborum thesaurus - it's been such a loooooong time since I last studied the lingua Latina! Ben, the January symposium of Firthology is scheduled for about mid-month and I think you may get some positive response once this month's session is out of the way... :-)

Terry, I'm sure you realize that cf.com is still out of action...

Steve Strongin....absolutely. I think I may even have met him. I hang out quite a bit at the NYFed, and I think I may have come across him either there or at a meeting of the NBER, which is a sort of economists' talking shop. So....Jan 14th and 15th - the Thursday and the Friday? Are you Firthing all of both evenings? I seem to remember some unseemly deal that the Donmar had offered, a million dollars to touch Colin's bottom or something; are you so occupied, or are there Firth-free plans for the Friday?

Cathey & Anne have you seen any other reviews? I have just read one in todays "Sydney Morning Herald". Its a good review with a good sized photograph of Malcolm McDowell, Irene Jacob and Colin. No write up in the Brisbane Courier Mail, but there is a reasonable size advertisement for the movie - unfortunately only showing at one theatre. I have found the address in my street directory and will be heading that way on Saturday and hopefully again on Monday. Perhaps Cathey will watch it. I did, but there was no mention of MLSF. Why am I not surprised!

So....Jan 14th and 15th - the Thursday and the Friday? No, Jan 14th and 15th - the Friday and the Saturday. And Firthing is the main scheduled activity for both evenings. Hanging out on Maiden Lane, huh? Somehow that seems appropriate. ;-D Personally, I used to prefer ducking out and going to the Forman's around the corner to shop.

the Firthettiae LOL, Ben! I did not realise we were such an ancient group. ;-)You should join that merry group in Jan. Now go and purchase your ticket! Renting first is always a good idea. Is your dear family happy to have you back? Or will Islington traveling for them be too far to visit (and I mean from Chelsea, some of my acquaintences seem to think so!). And, beware you artistic telos. You may end up in a completely different field. :-D

Since you can't get to firth.com and you've no interest in playing Economist Geography, I've put up the other pages on Colin's works in progress. They just consist of materials I've collected. No attempt at making them comprehensive. ;-D So The Bucket (or whateve it will be called) is an archive of news items. I'll work on a better main page shortly. Karen's Bucket

Congrats on your new job, Ben! I hope you will be very happy in London

I complained to Lady Viola about voting for C.F and nothing showed up while 9 were registered for R.C. she said to check again becausesometimes it was so busy that the votes didn't register right away. I am excessivley displeased.

The last time I looked at Lady Viola, Russell Crowe had gone ahead by about 10,000 votes. I hate to admit it, but I'm giving up ~ not on ODB of course, only on voting on that site. I'll check it out again in December. Have you had a response to your message Karen? Two more sleeps before I see MLSF - well that's if I can sleep of course :-)

Yes, Lady V and I exchanged a couple of emails last night, in which I told her it was not humanly possible to rack up the votes the way they are for RC without programming assistance. She was very nice about it (not arrogant), but didn't think she could do anything. If she yanked Crowe off without evidence of abuse, she'd probably have a slew of his supporters sending nasty emails. IMO this is not worth it. How very exciting Cathey...two more nights and then you get to see Edward in all his cream-colored glory. You must report back after they kick you out of the theater. ;-D

OK, I had nothing to do with this and for weeks I've been meaning to unregister from the Hollywood Stock Exchange. This came in a newsletter tonight: StarBonds for addition next week: Usher Raymond (URAYM) Eliza Dushku (EDUSH) Tony Goldwyn (TGOLD) Graham Greene (GGREE) Jamie Foxx (JFOXX) Colin Firth (CFIRT) Phillip Noyce - dir (PNOYC) Wolfgang Petersen - dir (WGPET) Michael Rooker (MROOK) Allison, our fears that Colin may become penny shares or junk bonds are upon us!! Oh no!! ;-o

Last item: I have been told that Colin will not be at either of the scheduled screenings for SLOW, just the director and screenwriter, and that both showings are sold out.

Karen, I am experimenting with AOL and find that I cannot cut and paste....? So re COlin and Junk bonds. We must do our best to avoid that. I hope I still have the address of that site. I shall go over and buy a piece of him... Yum.

Ben, sorry for not congratulating you on the job. Put it down to envy. Always happy to meet up for a drink, even outside the Firth season. Nobody's been brave enough to admit paying x hundred dollars for the privilege of eating dinner in the same room as CF yet ... So even the Ritzy is sold out? I'd better give my tickets to Evelyn so she has the chance to tout (scalp?) them outside the cinema on Saturday! Well, on second thoughts, maybe she'd be best advised to just get in off the Brixton streets.

Don't forget to vote for Murph's CF site at http://britishtheatre.about.com/arts/perfarts/britishtheatre/library/weekly/blabtwa2.htm Alan Bates is in the lead by a short nose!?

Proxy Reporting for Evelyn from London Got to see 3DOR last night on a return. Not bad Row A, but side view. Don't want to elaborate on changes in the production. Don't want to steal Lizza's thunder. I just will tell you that The Green Sweater is still with us and he is rail-thin. ODB does come down after the show...no crowd in the lobby. One middle aged lady and two young girls...no photos. I was standing outside with a Chicago couple who had sat next to me at the theatre. The guy had nodded off during the second act and I kept nudging him.(What as wrong with his wife!!) Poor man was completely lost on the plot. But I was NOT going to have Colin see this guy sleeping during his performance! Anyway ODB recognized me and came over and shook my hand. He had come down with a couple of people who had by now left. I told him how much I enjoyed seeing him on stage...was here for LFF and Summerfolk, and we looked forward to his future projects. He smiled and thanked me for coming.

And Allison, no Colin shares on offer yet...next week! Don't know anything about AOL (*wipes brow in relief*), but Heide or Moon might be able to tell you how it's done if not by the usual and customary methods. ;-D

Great to hear from Evelyn, thank you very much Karen. Ooooooh!! He recognized me and came over and shook my hand!!! Wow, Evelyn�s really becoming a pal of his! And I like it very much that he came to her, it shows that he very much appreciates his faithful fans. What I would�ve loved to know is if the house was full but I guess Evelyn would�ve mentioned it if it wasn�t.

Cathy, vote for him at Http://www.celebrity1000/actors.html. You get to vote 3 times a day and this one is fair

Please don't give up on voting for ODB even though we think it is unfair. Keep his vote count up she might find a way to set things right. she sounded very apologetic in her e-mail. And for heavens sake vote for Murfs site. we cannot let him lose out to Alan Bates.

What is wrong with 3 Deers, i can't get it to come up.

No moss on Evelyn... ;-D Click for more

ODB does come down after the show...no crowd in the lobby. No crowd waiting to greet him? Men falling asleep? What was wrong with that audience?-) Anyway ODB recognized me and came over and shook my hand. Did he ask where the rest of the gang was? "Hey, where's the one from Chicago?" He had come down with a couple of people who had by now left. I take it Livia was not with him? I told him how much I enjoyed seeing him on stage...was here for LFF and Summerfolk, and we looked forward to his future projects. Did she ask him about Flashy, one wonders? He smiled and thanked me for coming. *Sigh.* How does Evelyn keep from melting into a puddle during these encounters?-)

And how come was it possible to get an A row ticket on the second evening of the run?? Strange. Or did Evelyn knock someone down to get it?

Cathy, vote for him at Http://www.celebrity1000/actors.html. Thanks Lucie - couldn't get into the site just now, but I seem to be having problems getting into a few sites at the moment, including the one where I vote for Murhph (have done so previously but thought I would again). I'll try again later in the day. Evelyn, my heart started to beat faster when I read your post. I am all a dither and very green with envy ;-) Cathey

Thank you Karen for the post-haste! Evelyn! Did she mention SLOW and if he might attend? Was the audience enthusiastic? I have so many more questions. I look forward to lots more and of course, Lizza will be reporting too! Such an exciting time! Allison, with AOL I always use the right button on the mouse to cut and paste. The problem that I have with AOL is with the small icons on the keyboard such as apostrophes, quotations, etc. they just don t print.

Evelyn, well done! I didn't realise the homage season had begun. What a nice bloke that Firth is - don't you think he might be spoiled my mega movie-stardom (to sail dangerously close to the Dreaded Subject)? One certainly wouldn't be able to get 'A'-row seats if he were a big movie star. Anyway, I did my bit and voted for CF on that site. Mark and any other Londoners - I'll be scurrying frantically round London Weds Nov. 23 - Friday Nov. 25 looking for an affordable shoe-box to live in. Name the day, and we'll sink a couple of pints of Ruddles County, toast British beef and moan about the weather and the England cricket team. (Mark - how the hell can there be an injury crisis before they've set foot on a field?)

Ben, congrats re the job!! Hope you can join us in January, say do you like curry? I think Karen is the one to ask about such plans. Mind you i am partial to Ruddles myself! EXCELLENT news Evelyn, thanks Karen, it all sounds very "low key" in that lobby, I just can't picture it unfrenzied and not chock full of women totally conditioned to find men in frayed green jumpers completely sexy. I can't think of a nicer person for Colin to remember! Anyway full report coming later in the weekend but I promise I shall cry if they have moved the record player. I am front row , centre, so fingers crossed.

Not to worry about ticket sales and lack of frenzy in the lobby. As Evelyn said the ticket she got was on the side and it was a "return." I expect the lobby atmosphere is the difference between weekday and weekend crowds. People need to get out quickly during the week because they have work the next day. A lot more low key. Lizza, you're not the only one with recordplayer on the mind. The shock of when he came over to it. I'm sure I was shaking like a leaf. ;-D

Thank you Evelyn (and Karen!) for such a prompt report and photo. Evelyn, I'm very pleased that he remembered you instantly and that he came over and shook hands....does credit to both of you! I hope he's not too thin...his lovely wife should be feeding him up on pasta (and definitely not Kentucky Fried Chicken). Was Livia with him by the way? I guess she's seen 3DOR so many times by now. What's the significance of the record player?

I can't compete with meetings with the Man Himself, but I've a couple of snippets on the news front. Following Karen's excellent example (be proactive) I phoned BVI again to ask about MLSF in the UK. It will be released on May 5 (no more "tentatively"!). I spoke to their PR and asked what sort of release it would get. He said that it wasn't a "multiplex movie" and would have a gradual release, London, then nationwide (select nationwide, I presume) He expected it to be "around for some time" but not in the multiplexes. I mentioned that it would be out on video in the US in January and he seemed quite inte ested in this. So, another six months... Bridget Jones..front page news in the Independent. The launch of the new book (next week) is going to be mega...the launch party will be held on the 28th floor of the Hilton in Park Lane. Most significantly the book's PR will be handled by Matthew Freud, supposedly the Top Person's Top PR. He's related to Emma Freud, who is married to Richard Curtis, ex-boyfriend of HF, screenwriter of Blackadder , and also contributor to the script for "Bridget Jones:the movie" (the cast of which must be announced SOON! . So the Book is going to be high profile, and we can expect to see lots of mentions of HF, Bridget, the forthcoming movie and hopefully, by association Mark Darcy/CF. I'm beginning to realise that the promotion is as important as the actual product, and (washing my mouth out with soap and water!) I don't think ODB is the greatest self-promoter on the planet. He needs a little help from his friends!!The main reason I really want him to play MD is that this movie will be hyped...and it will be a multiplex movie (whatever that is!) On 3DOR...I don't really expect there to be any further publicity. Once plays have opened, that's it really...they just run. And London theatre crowds can be very blase about star names. Although I'll bet that the lobby will be livelier at the weekend!

(Bethan) What's the significance of the record player? Only it's location really. It was at the edge of the stage, within inches of my feet. Actually, I could have propped my feet up on the low stage. At the beginning of Act 2, Theo and Lina are having a row (!) on the upper level (meant to signify outside on the street) and Ned wants to drown out their noise. So he goes over to the recordplayer (remember, it's within reach), squats down (so he's eye to eye with whoever is sitting right there) and puts a record on. That's the significance. ;-D Thanks for the update on BJD-the sequel. So glad to hear it will be a media event. That will definitely stir up speculation as to the movie and when and if it's going to be made. How nice that ODB will be in London during the hoopla. You know what they say about being in the right place at the right time!! ;-D

http://www.firth.com/ is up again. Thanks, Terry. --------- I just will tell you that The Green Sweater is still with us and he is rail-thin. *sigh* *SIGH* That look is definitely one of my top favourites. Somebody will have to tie me to my row A seat, or else I will climb on the stage and embarrass everybody ...... . Thanks, Evelyn and Karen, for the subito report and pics. --------- Ben, congrats on your new job. How I envy you: to live and work in London! (Ben) Are you Firthing all of both evenings? I seem to remember some unseemly deal that the Donmar had offered, a million dollars to touch Colin's bottom or something; are you so occupied, or are there Firth-free plans for the Friday? Not all Firth pilgrims will be in the show on Friday (Jan. 14) night, I know of a handful who will take a quiet drink somewhere, though I doubt it will be a firth-free conversation. Hope you join - I want to pick your brain for guess what. ;-)

For the Friday/Saturday night Firthers, apres-play is great for a drink, if only we knew a place that didn't close up so early (remember?). However, we will be flying high (a la Jon the Trooping Fairy), so don't expect any of us to be our *normal* selves, whatever that might be.

Cathey, try http://www.Celebrity1000.com I just went there and it came up quickly. You can click on many sites to vote for your favorites. I had to enter some for Sammy Sosa and Mark Grace while I was there. I am so glad to have colinfirth.com back on track

if only we knew a place that didn't close up so early (remember?) Truly! Can't you "natives" think of a place for the group to meet up after the show? That would almost be worth the plane fare/flight through hell (pick one) to witness that. Not that that rail thin bod in a green sweater prevents keep me from coming. ODG Evelyn is such a trouper! She arrived Wednesday morning and is at the theatre to try for a return the same night? Lizza, here's a thought, but I don't want it to make you more nervous than you already are. If there were just a handful of people waiting in the lobby for him, would you still have the nerve to say hi? Strength in numbers but what an opportunity too. But don't worry, I'm sure the weekend show will attract masses in the lobby. Allison, I highlight the text, click Control C to cut and then Control V to paste. Any luck? Congratulations, Ben, on the new job. We know you're making this huge sacrifice just for us. We'll look forward to your weekly reports from the Firth turf.

Proxy review of MLSF by Anne Hale Well now what can I say. It was a wonderful, sometimes joyful film, funny and sad. Colin was wonderful, sometimes joyful, funny (he really has a great sense of the ridiculous and does not mind making a fool of himself for the sake of the film) he is a natural comic. The scenery was magnificent, I don't really know why Mirimax didn't promote more fully. Where he tries to put in central heating was so funny. The audience was in fits, and laughed throughout most of the film. The boy was a natural. I couldn't sleep much last night because the filmmakers used Colin's face so much to convey his thoughts - enormous close ups. His eyes, much better in a sense than P. and P. because it was on a very large screen. It was in a brand new theatre, and the sound wonderful, the seating - it was like sitting at home in a comfortable armchair. The theatre was half full and as it was Thursday late shopping night very good I thought. As I was waiting for Denis, I could hear people say they were going into to see M.L.S.F. - the centre has 16 cinemas so holds good I hope for a couple of weeks. But the close ups - I can't convey the tingling feeling that goes up one's spine. I hope you at least get to see the video. The highlands of Scotland (I have been there) is the most beautiful backdrop and the other firth fan with me and I sat at the end entranced with it all. Towards the end he stood looking at his son who was up to mischief and you saw the annoyance and perhaps anger change on his face into a half smile because he could see the funny side of what he was doing - and with the half smile a sight of that dimple. It will take me weeks to calm down.

Thank you, Anne (via Marcia). Sounds like it was received very well and is being treated like a mainstream film playing in a multiplex. Didn't you just cringe when they chewed on the asbestos? eeek!! I agree, Colin does comedy very well and so naturally.

She seems to have sunken into the Huge Colin Face stupor and is smiling very happily, thank you.

Allison, I highlight the text, click Control C to cut and then Control V to paste. Any luck? Magic! Thanks Heide. Also thanks to Anne for the great descriptions from MLSF. I really want to see this but the thought of having to wait until May....

Thanks Anne for your report! I'm very pleased to hear that MLSF is actually playing in a multiplex!! :-) One comment that the BVI PR person made (to which I now wish I'd made a feisty response) was that MLSF would "lose money in multiplexes" in the UK. It would lose money if it continues to receive a minimal level of promotion with a total lack of focus on CF, but with a bit of a push, it could do well. I would love to see MLSF in our local modern comfortable easy-parking multiplex rather than drive near y 20 miles to a city-centre art-house Pictureville with no adjacent parking. I'll phone BVI again in the New Year and take up the cudgels...and also ask why they're delaying the release! Good luck to everyone who will be seeinf SLOW today...I'm really looking forward to your (objective!) reviews. As you know, I have no confidence in our professional reviewers, the majority of whom now seem to be male twenty-somethings. I saw a clip from "Ratcatchers" the hit of LIFF. A group of boys bullying another miserable little boy, lots of F*** words, grim but very "real", I suppose :-(

Ben, how about the 23rd - I'll check which of the Fleet Street pubs serve Ruddles. Anybody else close enough to look in? Those England bowlers are so tuned and toned that one wrong move snaps all their taut tendons. Lovely to meet Springfolk for the first time yesterday - LDE was very fine in Gorky's Revolutionary miseryfest. Evelyn's schedule is something like this, it seems: Wed Arrive in England; evening, blag ticket for 3DOR Thu Matinee, Summerfolk; evening, Summerfolk Fri Matinee, SLOW; evening ? Sat Matinee, 3DOR; evening, SLOW. And I bet Friday evening isn't a blank (I shall call her Dame Evelyn from now on) Anyway, despite assurances to the contrary, I shall pop down to the NFT at lunchtime just to see if there is any spectacle.

(Mark) Evelyn's schedule is something like this, it seems: On the whole, rather full, but balanced. ;-D

New review of Three Days of Rain found by AnneR at the What's On Stage website: ------------------------------------------------- Three Days of Rain at the Donmar Warehouse So rich and resonant is Three Days of Rain that you suspect it might originally have been intended as a novel or screenplay. There is no doubt that Richard Greenberg's compelling family drama would have lent itself to whichever form he'd set his mind to. The prosaic title refers to a typical entry in the diary of recently deceased Ned Janeway, a celebrated American architect. His neurotic drop-out son Walker (Colin Firth) is hoping to inherit the family home - a world-renowned architectural masterpiece designed by Ned and his former partner, Theo - but it's the emotional legacy he should be worrying about. Having avoided his father's funeral, Walker has finally turned up in New York to confront his exasperated sister Nan (Elizabeth McGovern), and Theo's son Pip (David Morrissey), an actor in TV soaps and an old flame of Nan's. The three quarrel, make up, fondly recall the past and bemoan the present. After the interval, we retreat thirty years to meet the previous generation - Ned and Theo (played by Firth and Morrissey), and Lina (McGovern), the quick-witted, hard-drinking lover of both men, who combines the brittleness of Katherine Hepburn with the vulnerability of Blanche Dubois. What we learn about those 'three days of rain' makes it clear that this was some kind of understated metaphor for a time of turmoil in the lives of Ned and Theo. Slowly, you begin to understand how the sins of the fathers ave been visited on their luckless children. Greenberg may sometimes appear to indulge his obvious gift for one-liners, but they are usually consistent with the character speaking them and, as the play develops, any early flashiness gives way to solid story-telling and intelligent exposition. Robin LeFevre's production is cannily understated, allowing three exceptionally strong performances to carry the full force of the text. These are roles that any actor hungry for a challenge would give his or her eye teeth for. Firth, Morrissey and McGovern do not disappoint. Now that the Donmar's boss, Sam Mendes, has emerged as one of the hottest young directors in the States, perhaps we can expect a film version of Three Days of Rain before too long. If so, Mendes would be well advised to retain this tremendous trio. Nick Smurthwaite Date: 11 November 1999

Purple, then green in second place. Purple of course is red and blue mixed together.

So not only does Terry put "What's your favorite color" in Drool, he then posts into #123! Well, I did it, I goofed off work for over two hours and watched the world premiere of SLOW! I sneaked/snuck into the NFT on a return just as the main feature began, and as the credits rolled I thought of all those people who badgered the bank, and the distributors and the agents. Take a bow, ladies! I will post details of the film on the MLSF Spoilers topic for anyone who wants to know, but suffice to say that CF gets first billing, is the sympathetic (though flawed) male romantic lead, and shows no sign of thinning (shot 4 yrs ago?). Also there was a sold out theatre (maybe 20 seats empty out of 250), and a round of applause at the end, which may be less unusual at Film Festival screenings (and premieres) than the usual cinema.

Ooooo Evelyn! You go, girl. Thanks for proxy posting, Karen. Anyway ODB recognized me and came over and shook my hand Seven months and five roles later, ODB recognizes one of his fans. Whatta guy. I'm glad to hear you were able to get a definite date for MLSF, Bethan. Can't wait to hear more news from the Ritzy and Donmar! Hope you have a terrific time, Lizza!

Tee, hee, Terry! Oops! Thanks for your timely SLOW news, Mark. Good on ya! Am off to the MLSF topic.

After driving all the way to Scottsdale, guess what shows up on my doorstep this morning: MLSF!!! It is playing just around the corner at the local art house. I will be a MLSF watching fool all this weekend.

Great news, Jana! Just wait till you see the close-up at the end! I believe Anne is still recuperating.;-D Bethan, thanks for the BJD news. Maybe Ben with some acquaintance can go and report back.

Check out Mark's SLOW review everyone! I don't know if I'm breaching net etiquette by reporting something that appears at another site, but it relates to a public nor private sighting of CF, and if I am transgressing, I apologise! It's in a good cause. But apparently Colin appeared on a local television (Carlton) news programme today, as he took part in a protest in front of the Houses of Parliament, together with Corin Redgrave, on behalf of refugees and asylum seekers. They had a huge paper chain made up of messages from asylum seekers. There was a short live interview with Colin at 1.10pm. This would explain why he wasn't at the SLOW screening. I'm very impressed by his willingness to promote other people's interests.

Well I'm home, but Mark has beaten me to it. SLOW, is a sweet funny colourful film that leaves you with a smile on your face, its not going to win any Oscars, except, as Evelyn says,possibly in Nigeria, but it was most enjoyable. Nia Long was very good and very pretty and Colin was really cute, those dimples I have never noticed his dimples so much before. WOW. I want the video now. Someone said that Colin was not very pleased with SLOW but I saw nothing to be ashamed or disappointed about, It was just a really nice friendly feel-good film like they used to make and I look forward to owning the video. To answer some question earlier, yes the Donmar was sold out on Wednesday and is for the fnext 4 weeks. I have had a lovely time meeting up with Evelyn, ASishling & Tineke and Mark on Thursday and look forward to meeting more CF fans in January. I will also post my thoughts about SLOW on MLSF spoilers topic. Evelyn & Aishling are going again tomorrow and so is Tineke, thanks to Mark's generosity. OT Summerfolk was excellent as was the whole ensemble and played to a full house, not bad for a Russian author and on a Thursday night.

(Bethan)reporting something that appears at another site Bethan, what you�re reporting is very interesting and I�d like to know more. Please tell us where you found this information from....I mean, WHAT site are you referring to?

(Ann)yes the Donmar was sold out on Wednesday and is for the fnext 4 weeks Yippee! That�s great for Colin. And thanks Ann for your SLOW report, I�m so happy that you liked it. Was afraid that the film could be junk because of those bad reviews.

Just a quick post as it is all excitement and news on 123. I am meeting up with our wonderful "Dame" after the matinee so if ODB should descend for a ciabatta with pecorino or whatever it is he indulges in between shows, I am sure she will start the ball rolling Heide, I would not be able to approach him on my own, but Evelyn would spur any tremulous Firthette on!! Talk to you all soon. I am off to read about SLOW.

Hello from London Iam using Aishling's password since she remembered the URL...we are at a cyber cafe....... We attended the premiere of SLOW...almost a sell out....good film..Don't believe the reviews...comedy, sexy ...lots of good-Colin viewings.....he did not attend...as did no one else. Tineke joined us...Had great time with Mark at Summerfolk last night.... KaREN...have posters, press kit etc...Meet me in Chicago!! Place is closing ...G'night....Evelyn and Aishling......

Could I have the topic number again for the spoilers reviews? I'd love to read Mark's review. Thanks, Ann, for yours. If you want to read the whole report on Colin as an activist, I have it on my news page. http://www.geocities.com/firthfan/news2.html Murph And on that fav actor voting -- A good word for Russell Crowe, another of my favorites - he is splendid in The Insider. I highly recommend it.

Murph, the topic no. for SLOW is on MLSF spoilers page #121

Thanks, Murph!

Thanks, Evelyn, Aishling, Ann and Mark (hope I didn't forget anyone) for your exciting reports! I'm glad you all were able to hook up and had such a good time. Those of us who can't go take great pleasure in the play by play. Things always seem to come in a flood after a dry spell, don't they? Here we were short on Firth news and now we have reports on a new film and a siting of the man in the Flesh, all in one day! Evelyn, you are my hero and Mark, you get special points for playing hookey from work ;-). Lizza, can't wait to hear about your adventure. And JanaC, I hope you and Edward have fun this weekend :-).

The story, with small picture, of Colin's protest outside the House of Commons, is on teletext http://www.teletext.co.uk/

Good sleuthing, Allison! Thanks.

Yes, thanks so much for directing us to this, Allison.

Wow!! What a find, Allison. Look at the sadness on his face. Or is it disgust that reporter keeps calling him Mr. Darcy and has his age wrong? ;-D Here's the pic and article: Colin Firth campaigns for rights of refugees By Louise Burke Pride And Prejudice heart-throb Colin Firth got involved in politics today in a bid to stop what he calls the "inhumane" detention of asylum seekers. Firth, who played Mr Darcy, has joined the Refugee Council to launch a campaign against the Home Office crackdown on the growing number of people wanting sanctuary in the UK. He said: "I think it's shameful that we, as a country, can arbitrarily arrest people who have committed no crime - it's absolutely terrible." Firth, 38, is backing Refugee Week, set up by the Refugee Council. "We have a great deal to gain from people who come to claim asylum - we can become much more culturally diverse," he told TV Plus. "We have this morbid fear of the outside world where we feel that we don't want to be submerged by hordes. This is an utterly false perception." He says it was a Nigerian refugee's story that urged him to join the pressure group the Refugee Council. Firth, who spent the first four years of his life in Nigeria, spoke about a 19-year-old detainee who was turned away by immigration officials at Heathrow Airport. "He escaped Nigeria only to be put under arrest at the airport in England. He wasn't a criminal. He was a legitimate political objector. It's a shameful way to treat people." 12/11/99

Thank you Allison, Karen, and Murph! Very good work!

From the Guardian (no pics online): Protest role Actor condemns detention of asylum seekers Saturday November 13, 1999 Pride and Prejudice actor Colin Firth yesterday led a protest involving MPs and religous leaders against the government's plans to extend the use of detention for asylum seekers, writes Alan Travis. Mr Firth joined Labour MP Neil Gerrard and Lib-Dem MP Evan Harris outside parliament in a paper chain made from 800 pledges of support, representing the number of asylum seekers held in detention. The Refugee Council said Britain detains more asylum seekers without judicial review and for longer than any other country in Europe. Oakington army barracks, near Cambridge, is to be used as a short-term detention centre for up to 400. Mr Firth said: "It is shameful that a country calling itself civilised detai s hundreds of people a year coming here in search of liberty." The protest coincided with the immigration and asylum bill receiving its royal assent. The home secretary, Jack Straw, said it would it would produce a fairer, faster and firmer asylum system.

Wow, the day's just begun and already so much excitement happening! Thanks to everyone for the reports and news info. What an amazing team:-)

If the media keep referring to him as Mr. Darcy, I am afraid he will not want to play Mark Darcy. Has he not wanted to shed the Mr. Darcy image. FGS, he is currently in a sold out play, he was in this year's BP Oscar winning film. I understand his frustration. Thanks again, Karen!

A new article about Bridget Jones: http://www.thisislondon.com/dynamic/lifestyle/top_review.html?in_review_id=227425&in_review_text_id=176482

(Moon) If the media keep referring to him as Mr. Darcy, I am afraid he will not want to play Mark Darcy. Apparently the media is afraid no one will know him if they don't refer to P&P in some way. Now if they'd just do us all a favor and put Colin on the covers of all their magazines with news of his latest work, he might gain recognition for his other roles. Not everyone is as diligent as we in scouring the news for signs of Firth. (BTW, this is not a diatribe on the Firth Fame Factor.) Thanks for the news on Bridget, Renate.

Hotfoot from the Donmar and Covent Garden meeting with Evelyn, Aishling and Tineke.But had to post before falling exhausted into bed. All I want to say is that superlatives fail me!!! All of you are familiar with the speech that Lizzie gives in her scene with Wickham after the proposal rejection about knowing Darcy better etc etc So really I felt all of those things, he is just an amazing actor and he has obviously worked on this role (EMG take note, ooops slap my hand!)to add nuances and subtle layers to the characters. My mother was so impressed with (him) and the whole production that she wants to make the trek again! She described him as "boyish" and I think because he is "rail thin" to quote our favourite Dame, he has the quality even more this time around!!

He does not smoke , for those of you desperate to know, Livia was not there either, or any family or famous names.(How was I calm enough to notice?) The foyer was deserted and he does NOT come down (said box office) in between shows. I saw someone go up with carrier bags of deli food. Anyway he is just gorgeous and the record player has not moved, so I sat on my hands, and anyone with a future visit coming up will be in for an incredible tour de force. This is extremely disjointed for which I apologise, and I will let you know further details (no changes re costumes/ scenery) tomorrow. BTW his flies held up!! Expressive hands EVEN more in evidence in Act 1, and our honoured dame Evelyn and I would count that as one of the changes we noticed. His interpretation of Walker has altered, but hey I could watch this man reciting "Maybe it's because I'm a Londoner." in Chinese wearing a bin liner and think it was a work of art, so I would say that I prefer act 2. But I needed a third showing to decide that. Either way it was wonderful, with a very appreciative audience (not full). Hope that is enough for the more voracious Firthettes out there. Have b/w Guardian photo so could scan and send.

(Lizza) but hey I could watch this man reciting "Maybe it's because I'm a Londoner." in Chinese wearing a bin liner and think it was a work of art LOL!! As could we all. Your writing tells me you're flying high - near the ceiling! Wonderful to read that it just keeps getting bettah and bettah. That mention about Mendes and a movie of this got me thinking. Keep Colin and replace the other two. Can't remember if I mentioned it on the boards but Janet McTeer (who in real life is svelte) would be a fabulous Nan/Lina. Saw her in a little indie flick called Tumbleweeds and she can do a fabulous southern accent. Lizza, do scan and send the Guardian pic to me and I'll post it for you.

So glad it was everything you expected and more. I'll wait patiently to hear the rest of your tale. Your mother has fine taste, obviously passed down to daughter. Any eye contact at the record player? ;-) There will be many very happy to hear that the stage set has not changed. Bed still in same location? Sorry, I said I'll be patient. Pleasant dreams, Lizza.

Thanx Lizza, love your report. 2 questions for the morning #1., do you mean you do not like the new interpretation of Walker as much as in March and #2 has he worked on the stuttering and is it more pronounced this time around. BTW good for Mum, as Heide says. she obviously has good taste. appreciative audience (not full) why are the Donmar not advertising, they surely can't rely entirely on word of mouth

(Lizza), Expressive hands EVEN more in evidence in Act 1, and our honoured dame Evelyn and I would count that as one of the changes we noticed. He must be spending lots of time with the Italian relatives. ;-) Lizza, your kindness in posting so quickly is very much appreciated, thank you. We will tune in tomorrow for more. Questions will come later.

appreciative audience (not full) why are the Donmar not advertising The word is that it's all sold out. Occasional empty seats may be due to something else.

Ah yes, the stuttering!! Glad you brought it up, Ann. Is it more pronounced? Also, how's his accent? Does it sound as though he's improved? (not like he's been in the States at all Other important point(s)... does he still only take off the sweater? What is he wearing to bed? ;-D

Lizza, I also want to thank you for being so quick to post your thoughts about the play, I so much looked forward to hear them! AND thanks very much to all of you who posted stuff about his refugee campaign.

Not that I'm jumping the gun, but this always comes up: The Olivier Awards--The judging year runs from January 1 to December 31 1999. Any new production that opens in a theatre represented in membership of the Society is eligible for consideration, provided it is proposed and seconded by members of the Society. The nominations are announced in January each year and the Awards are presented in February at a ceremony televised by BBC Television.

Great to see so many questions, so I will do my best to answer all of them. 1) bed in same location but when he comes on at first, instead of lying with his head by those row A side seats (I should know!) he now lies centrally on the bed. I don't blame him for getting this reblocked because sitting next to my mum were two silly ladies who started making gestures and noises when he came to lie down, Even Tineke noticed it from above. It's so off putting for him, but I guess they've got volvos! So at least he is as far away from audience as he could be, given bed's location. 2) In terms of it not being full, the best seats were all gone. I am talking side seats upstairs, maybe 10/15 free. Evelyn says box office say sellout for first four weeks. I have just enquired in the period after that and only the central stalls block has sold out. But I am sure they won't have a problem selling them.

3) His accent is as consistent and natural as ever. I felt DM was better all round as well, D. Ev. is not so sure! I have to say IMO both men have worked on their performances but I felt E.MG hadn't changed at all, and so it appears a weaker performance this time round. Stuttering is good, but not so much of it. Can anyone help? He didn't stutter at all after Theo leaves in act2, was that the same in march? Anyway the stuttering is not as much in evidence, is how it seems to me. 4) The sweater is the same. I was concerned that he got quite "pink" and almost sweaty in act 1, I wish he wouldn't wear the t-shirt under the sweater but something lighter. I wouldn't want his skin to get all scratchy fom just the sweater but I think it's all a bit heavy for him. Which leads me neatly into the final point about why he gets sweaty in the first place!!

5) Evelyn and I had a great discussion re the major change, which IOO was his interpretation of Walker. He has made him much more neurotic, twitchy and "in pain". We both felt tho' that it was just a few degrees too much and preferred March. Obviously as Moon says too much time with Italian relatives, but then, ironically, of course that is where Walker has been!! But the effect of (over) fine tuning his act I performance means that the contrast with act 2 is really heightened and I think that this is an advantage. It makes you even more aware of how he uses his body to convey Ned in act 2 because there is much more of a contrast, as Ned he is as economical with his movements and gestures as he is with words. You will have to make your own minds up. Of course we both saw this in its first week so his interpretation may have subtly altered again nearing the end of the run. This is why he gets so warm!! But talking of taking off his clothes I am sorry to disappoint Heide and say he only takes off the shirt again but at least he is facing the front row when he does it and pulls the white t- shirt over the waist band of his trousers. Anyway I think that is enough of the ramblings of a deranged woman for you to have to listen to. I will fill you in on all the "lovely bits" that come from being mere inches away later today and sort out the scanning for Karen.

Great to hear all the reports on 3DOR and SLOW, and details of the protest. Thank you everyone! I have just enquired in the period after that and only the central stalls block has sold out. But I am sure they won't have a problem selling them. I just do so wish that he would give an interview and that he'd talk about all his upcoming projects, and there would be some photo coverage. If, for example,I just read the Daily Telegraph, I would have no idea that he was appearing on the stage at the moment. That's one problem with a re-run...no reviews. And the Donmar only list the title of the play (no mention of the cast)and don't advertise. Pity...they had all those great reviews to draw on. I'm finding reading the papers rather a penance at the moment, because, (and I hate to say this!!) the "smolderingly handsome" Ralph Fiennes is EVERYWHERE. Colin, not a peep. I notice that one article refers to RF's publicist. Does Colin have a publicist? Answer, probably, no!! Does anyone know if there'll be any advance publicity for SLOW? Otherwise reading papers is definitely not good for my health!!

Take heart Bethan, in The Sunday Times in the Metro section 3DOR is listed at The Donmar with CF, E.mcG & DM., it is only included among all the other Theatre but at least it mentions the cast.

Further to the above (hope it didn't sound too negative! It's the Fiennes reaction!) I think Colin will benefit from two huge "free" publicity boosts in the next month or so. Onw, appearing in ITV's major Boxing Day drama, which will attract an audience of at least 10 million. And The Master has to be sexy! (Those 10 minutes will have to be good!) And the Dome has sold over a million tickets (Skyscrape/Blackadder included). And, of course, what I'd like to see..."Firth to play Darcy again. Colin Firth, currently apperaing in the acclaimed production of 3DOR at the Donmar, is to play the part of Mark Dacy in the forthcoming movie of Bridget Jones' Diary". Well, it could happen...:-)

Just want to thank everyone for all the news. I have put the protest picture (thanks, Allison) on my news page. Karen, he does look sad, with a bit of Darcy's disgusted face. I am so proud of him. I am an old anti-Vietnam war protester, and I know that it takes courage to stand out on the street and to stand up for what you believe in. Lizza, how I wish I could see 3DOR. I live in hope Mendes might some day make a film of it. Murph

Bethan, I too am all "Rafed out" from reading the papers, and as you say no Firth snippet in sight. I hope your publicity predictions come true!!

(Mary) I am so proud of him. My feelings exactly, Murph. I really appreciate it what he�s doing.

(Lizza) He has made him much more neurotic, twitchy and "in pain". We both felt tho' that it was just a few degrees too much and preferred March. Hmmmm, been wondering what *the change* was. Just so long as he doesn't take it all the way to wild, raging histrionic, then I won't mind. How did he express the "in pain" aspect, other than the scene where he's sprawled up above and draped over the railings while Nan and Theo talk? Tell me that he hasn't lost his glibness or his playful manner in torturing the unsuspecting Pip. (Bethan) Ralph Fiennes is EVERYWHERE. Yes, because he has 3 big films ready to hit the screens now and is going to be doing Shakespeare next year. Since two of the films have been hard sells to US distributors and the whole family's reputation is on the line with another, he's knows what he has to do. He has to promote them and he has been doing that. BTW, I saw the previews for "End of the Affair" (with Julianne Moore) at the theater - Why does he keep getting those parts? Major love and passion as a focal point and now I read there's li tle chemistry between RF & JM. Sounds like another film... Unfortunately, I don't think the 10-minute appearance in TOTS and probably the same (or less) in the new Blackadder are going to do much for him. He wasn't even mentioned in the 5-page article on Blackadder that Ann sent me. :-(

I don't believe it! There's a big interview with Francesca Annis in the Sunday Times where she discusses her relationship with Ralph. He'll definitely be making the circuit on the talk shows. Am already conjuring up images of Rafe with Regis and Kathie Lee!! ;-D

If, for example,I just read the Daily Telegraph, I would have no idea that he was appearing on the stage at the moment. I find What's On in London most helpful whenever I want to know what's going on in there. Most other publications tend to be selective.

Unfortunately, I don't think the 10-minute appearance in TOTS and probably the same (or less) in the new Blackadder are going to do much for him. He wasn't even mentioned in the 5-page article on Blackadder that Ann sent me. :-( It's the timing of TOTS....massive captive audience all slumped in front of the television. (remember, we don't go to the movies!). Syon House, of which CF is the Master, is a beautiful location, Nick Dear wrote the script (also adapted "Summerfolk"), it's directed by Ben Bolt (son (?)of Robert Bolt ("Man for All Seasons). and the cinematographer was responsible for the recent "Our Mutual Friend". Ten minutes in this is well worth having. And, to make the governess's future actions credible, she has to be ome infatuated with the Master, despite their very short acquaintance. As to Blackadder, well, CF is usually mentioned. And it's a bit of an honour really to be included with all the original cast. Very much a closed shop! And again, Blackadder Redux is an "event" movie...otherwise it wouldn't have been chosen to herald the new millennium! Lizza, yep, too much Rafe.Every time I turned over a page...aargh!! :-) Did you notice that the publicist apparently vets journalists to ensure they give a favourable report? Probably standard practice. BTW, back to basics, how was the hair? Noticeably thin on top, or okay (not that it matters! :-)). And audience reaction at the end...a good round of applause, I hope! I'm very pleased that a man who apparently is very reluctant to promote himself, is willing to speak live on TV to promote the interests of others who need support.

Lizza, thanks so much for your report! I am amazed that Colin was able to find the time to make substantive changes to the part, given that he's been working nonstop on so many different projects since the March run. I really hope he gets an Olivier nomination, even if Dillane or O'Toole are favored to win.

Lizza, thanks for the insights! It will be interesting to see as you said, if he makes more changes by Jan. Has the scene in bed with EMG changed? Did you wait to see him after the show, or was everyone sent off? Karen, I too have seen the previews to that RF film. Why do they consider him a romantic lead? Then again, the same goes for Hugh Grant. Quite baffling!

Lizza, did this latest interpretation of Walker mare you enjoyment overall of the play, and this may sound strange but did you feel embarrassed with this new Walker. I liked his dry droll sense of humour last March, has that all gone. (Is it still an award-winning (nomination) performance? Also what did you think of DM's performance and I am not quite sure if you think EMcG performance has improved or not.

(Lizza)Stuttering is good, but not so much of it. Can anyone help? He didn't stutter at all after Theo leaves in act2, was that the same in march? My memory of it is that his stuttering was less noticable after Theo left. Either that or I had gotten used to it. But it wasn't really stuttering last March...it was more of a halting, herky-jerky type speech. Would you say that's the same? But the effect of (over) fine tuning his act I performance means that the contrast with act 2 is really heightened and I think that this is an advantage. It makes you even more aware of how he uses his body to convey Ned in act 2 because there is much more of a contrast, as Ned he is as economical with his movements and gestures as he is with words. Well put, and I can envision that. I wonder though why he felt the need to display the contrast even more starkly. Didn't feel it was enough last time? (Karen) Tell me that he hasn't lost his glibness or his playful manner in torturing the unsuspecting Pip. Yes, I'd hate to see him so entirely obsessed with himself that he loses the one thing that makes his character remotely endearing. I am sorry to disappoint Heide and say he only takes off the shirt again Hey, that was Karen who wanted to know that superficial kind of stuff. I'm more interested in the important things like the hair. ;-) I second Bethan's request to know more about that. Tineke might be able to add insight if she was sitting in the circle seats. (Bethan) I'm very pleased that a man who apparently is very reluctant to promote himself, is willing to speak live on TV to promote the interests of others who need support. It's so apparent his support is not just for the fashionable cause of the month. He uses his fame reluctantly but knows it helps keep this issue in the news. (Karen)Am already conjuring up images of Rafe with Regis and Kathie Lee!! ;-D Are you hinting that he's courting publicity? :-o Well, he missed out on People's Sexiest Man Alive so maybe he and Francesca can try for the Most Beautiful Couple issue.

Are you hinting that he's courting publicity? Hinting? Pftttt! He is definitely doing it for Onegin. Think I heard he has signed on to do celebrity valet parking at the Russian Tea Room next month. ;-D

Think I heard he has signed on to do celebrity valet parking at the Russian Tea Room next month. ;-D LOL!

Reminder: Besides interrogating Lizza on 3DOR here, we are also giving Ann the third degree at Topic 121 for Secret Laughter of Women so hie to there if you want to hear more.

Some quick answers before I have to rush off, which I hope will suffice. Hair the same as we saw in March and because I have gotten used to his patch I can honestly say I didn't notice it this time. My mum did but diplomatically said she wasn't going to mention it unless I did (Evelyn , Tineke and I did discuss it). I did notice the light glinting on just a few silver strands at the sides of his hair during the record player scene, all I could think of was "Wow I am close enough to see this!! Evelyn had a comment, which I will let her add. He is still playful etc and it didn't mar my enjoyment at all, he is just more energetic, loud, angry, gesturing etc as Walker than before. DM I felt was also better in his role but Ann as you can tell I am no EMG fan. I just feel both men but particularly ODB had searched to find something, another dimension to add to their character this time around. She seemed flat to me. Of course the men in the audience warm to her, and there were a lot more there yesterday in contrast to when we went in March. The audience also seemed to laugh more. I think they were very appreciative of the play and Colin smiled a lot and looked pleased (and surprised?) when they took a second bow. It's that final bit that slays me because as he rakes the audience with his eyes there is that glorious nano-second when your eyes meet ! DM leads the cat off, I had he impression it was the opposite in March?

I feel like something of an interloper intruding upon your conversation. My name is Cheryl and I've been lurking through your achives. I'm rather pressed for time now; so in brief, I think Colin Firth is a really good actor and I'll probably never get to see on stage. My chances of getting to London are fat and slim.

I will just add a few more moments that were special to me or things that I had time to closely observe. His boots were Timberland and I tried really hard to read the size off the bottom of the sole-no luck! The laces were frayed too and when he stood up for the first time one trouser leg was caught up in the top of his trouser leg, he looked endearingly lopsided. On the back of his jumper was a piece of white cotton thread and I wanted to jump up and pluck it off! DM had a huge strand of it on the back of his trouser leg too, Do you suppose they all recline in white fluffy bath robes in the dressing room and the bits get transferred to their costumes? LOL! I was close enough to see his eyes sparkle, the whites looked luminous it was just weird (and wonderful) to be so close. When Pip and Nan chat on the bed and he is outside sitting up on the rail he is continually working the muscles in his jaw and cheekbone and swallowing a lot, this conveys his anger and pain, but could so easily have been left out by another actor. I love the way he hugs the rail for support etc and is just huddled there. Of course you would need to be like us to notice all that because the audience are focused on the others! I was sorry he had his back to me when Nan and Pip reveal their relationship. Anyone see that in March? You would have to be on the side I guess. Just an aside re today's Rafe interview (observer?), I found it highly amusing. They had to walk in the park to get away from everyone, he doesn't like fame etc and then in the cafe the waitress aks for his autograph. LOL Eventually he rushes outside as he can't cope with it all, journalist note taking and talking about himself. Give me a man with a cause to stand up for any day! Sorry that's RF and EMG I have been negative about.

Welcome Cheryl, we love sharing anything about Colin here. The more the merrier.

Cheryl Join in and please don't feel like you're intruding if you do. And there are many here who will not likely get to London to see Colin in person. So you're not in a minority. Lizza! Your attention to detail is truly amazing. Silver hair spotted at the sides. Yowza. This I must be on the lookout for, as well as all those holes in his ears. So much to remember. I'm not too keen on that he's made Walker more "energetic, loud, angry, gesturing." I liked his controlled anger and how he could subtlely manipulate everyone without appearing to be a raving lunatic. ;-D That was my problem with the Chicago actor; he was way too histrionic. Do you think we should go armed with lint brushes to pick up the stray threads here and there? ;-D

After a rather eventful voyage (subway in London, train to Dover with half an hour delay because of other train blocking the tracks, bus through Kent because there were engineering works going on, hovercraft to Calais since I just missed my ferry to Ostend by 5 minutes and the next ferry didn't leave until 5pm and obviously I didn't feel like waiting in Dover for 6 hours, ending up in France without any French Francs, calling sister to pick me up in Calais -it's about an hour drive- being dropped off at t ain station because of bike, cycle home)I managed to get home. And now, my impressions of my London trip: It was wonderful to meet up with Ann, Dame Evelyn, Aishling and Mark to see Summerfolk (even though I couldn't find the restaurant at first). I truly enjoyed the play, I'm extremely glad I got to see it. When I was buying a programme during the break, someone we all know came to stand on my right: Toby Stephens!! Having seen him in real life now, I can only say that he's gorgeous! I didn't dare say anything to him, but he must have noticed that I recognised him. At the National Theatre I also saw (but not during Summerfolk) Susannah Harker's sister. I forgot her name though, but remembered her from Middlemarch. On Friday, I saw SLOW with Evelyn, Ann and Aishling. It was far from sold out, I'm afraid. I enjoyed SLOW, it's a sweet movie, not pretentious, but definately not the best film I've ever seen. Colin looked great, all women seemed to play with his hair in this film (which looked very curly). I saw SLOW a second time on Saturday evening (thanks to Mark!). This time I concentrated on the details. I finally saw those pierced ears;-) Then, I saw 3DOR on Saturday afternoon. I was sitting in row A, circle, just above the bed. I had a clear view of everything (including his hair). I kept on thinking during the very first scene, when he's lying on the bed, that if he'd open his eyes, he'd be looking straight at me. Obviously, I loved the play. Colin was fantastic!!! (Lizza)next to my mum were two silly ladies who started making gestures and noises when he came to lie down, Even Tineke noticed it from above. When I collected my ticket at the box office, I saw those ladies handing a card to James to give it to Colin. So I knew they were CF fans, but that shaking of the hands when Colin came on stage was a bit over the top! I'm off to bed now.

Glad to hear you eventually arrived home safe and sound Tineke. It was good to see you again too. Sorry to contradict, however, but I thought SLOW was pretty full on Friday, definitely more, way more than 2/3 thirds full.

Tineke, welcome back. When you're rested, run over to topic 123. So many questions to SLOW we deprived ones have. Your trip sounds so wonderful that I hope even the problems getting home haven't gotten you off your cloud yet. A Welcome to CherylB. No interloper at all. We're glad you introduced yourself and hope you continue to join us. As Karen said, most of us won't have the same chances to see CF in the flesh but it's fun to live vicariously off the experiences of other. Now...Lizza, I continue to revel in your 3DOR stories. I just feel both men but particularly ODB had searched to find something, another dimension to add to their character this time around. Doesn't sound like you didn't like this new dimension, Lizza. Why should I be surprised that he works so hard at his craft? I guess I'm just impressed again and again. It's that final bit that slays me because as he rakes the audience with his eyes there is that glorious nano-second when your eyes meet ! Yes, I remember..you wait, it comes, then it's over. His boots were Timberland and I tried really hard to read the size off the bottom of the sole-no luck! Good girl! Good try. he looked endearingly lopsided. ..piece of white cotton thread and I wanted to jump up and pluck it off! He should let you dress him, Lizza. When Pip and Nan chat on the bed and he is outside sitting up on the rail he is continually working the muscles in his jaw and cheekbone and swallowing a lot, this conveys his anger and pain, but could so easily have been left out by another actor. I never noticed that before. It's such an intense performance. I wonder if he can shake out of his Walker character in time to become Ned. (Tineke) I kept on thinking during the very first scene, when he's lying on the bed, that if he'd open his eyes, he'd be looking straight at me. Does it still open the same way? I'm sure it does. The stage is all in darkness and you can see him (we all recognized his silhouette) walk to the bed in the dark and lay down. Then that voice... I'm so glad you liked it, Tineke. (Karen) Silver hair spotted at the sides. Yowza. This I must be on the lookout for, as well as all those holes in his ears. Write it all down, girl, for the sake of your forlorn sisters left behind. As you may have noticed, I'm living on each piece of minutia that can be dredged up.

Sorry, Tineke, I meant that it's 121 where we're discussing SLOW. Only to keep the spoilers out of sight for those who have plans to see it.

(Cheryl) I'll probably never get to see on stage. My chances of getting to London are fat and slim. Well put--and many of us are in that boat. That's what the drool buckets here are for. that glorious nano-second when your eyes meet ! Words to live by! Lizza and Tineke -- How about the voice in person? Is it as rich, as resonant, as breath-taking, as squirm-making as on the films? Does the American accent make a difference? I thought it did in ATA--flatter and higher pitched. What do his hands look like? If you could see the silver hair, you must have had a good view of his hands. What was his curtain-call smile like--one of his trademark grins? Did he really look at the audience--you imply so with the above quote. How many curtain calls?

Do you suppose they all recline in white fluffy bath robes in the dressing room and the bits get transferred to their costumes? LOL, Lizza! I can just picture this. I was close enough to see his eyes sparkle, the whites looked luminous it was just weird (and wonderful) to be so close. That must have been truly amazing. Did you say you had the seat directly in front of the record player? I think I actually would be terrified to be that close -- afraid I would involuntarily do something that would distract him. I'm a bit confused. Did you say at some point (the bed scene with EMcG?) he takes off his t-shirt? So is he bare-chested then? Or is it just the sweater that comes off? Welcome, Cheryl. I won't be making it to London anytime soon either, but this board is the next best thing to being there:-) (Tineke) When I was buying a programme during the break, someone we all know came to stand on my right: Toby Stephens! Looks like JE is on friendly terms with *all* her ex's;-D Thanks for your report, Tineke, and glad you made it home safely. Do you agree with the assessment that Colin's portrayal of Walker seemed to be turned up a notch or two from March? What did you think of EMcG and DM compared to March?

Oops, sorry about the tags.

New review (by Nigel Cliff, a different Times reviewer). No picture included online. Please check actual paper on Monday and let us know. The return of a starry cast to the Donmar Three Days of Rain Donmar Warehouse, London WC2 BACK in March Three Days of Rain put in a brief appearance as part of the Donmar's American Imports season. It returns for a longer spell in the same poised production, stylishly directed by Robin Lefevre, and with the same splendid cast. Colin Firth, Elizabeth McGovern and David Morrissey play a couple of parts apiece, and out of the six at least two (from Firth and McGovern) had me throwing my critical umbrella to the wind. As for the other four: well, they lose out to different degrees in the grand scheme of Richard Greenberg's likeable but sometimes surface-deep script. The first half is set in 1995; the second rewinds to 1960. In the first, brother and sister Walker and Nan (Firth and McGovern) reunite with intimate friend of the family Pip (Morrissey) for the reading of their father's will. Walker is a neurotic dropout who lays his failings firmly at his parents' feet. Pip, whom Walker resents for being closer to his father than himself, is happy with his lot as a second-rate soap actor. Nan - well Nan is little more than a buffer between the other two. Fair enough and all perfectly well played, but all really an excuse for Walker to chance upon his father's journal. "Three days of rain" is the first entry: its inscrutability incenses him. "When people never talk to you, you always suppose they are harbouring some enormous secret - but maybe they have nothing to say," he digs away. Or maybe they do, but in a different way. In the second half the trio play their characters' respective parents. Here Firth and Morrissey are struggling architects Ned and Theo. Theo is theoretically the flamboyant genius, Ned the practical dogsbody, though again appearances fall short of the truth. McGovern plays a flirtatious, hard-drinking, self-aware Southern girl who has an affair with one and then, during that three-day downpour, the other. Greenberg, I imagine, wants to show how easily the old folk, trying to make the best of their own limitations, can be misunderstood by their children, convinced of their own larger emotional life. Fittingly then, the second half is much more vivid than the first; this is where Firth and, especially, McGovern really come into their own, playing off each other with a touching blend of awkwardness and allure, misgiving and giving. Greenberg's script throws up its multiple reflections with a pleasingly light touch and a gentle ironic wit. Hardly ground-breaking, but a welcome revival nonetheless. ******** I'm sorry, but the only reason these "guys" like McGovern's performance in Act 2 has to be the slip she wears. ;-D

should have been McGovern and especially FIRTH, but it is still pretty good and from the sounds of it the contrast between Walker and Ned seems to be working.

(Ann), from the sounds of it the contrast between Walker and Ned seems to be working. True, but I wonder if he might have prefered the March version of Walker. Colin has obviously changes it to make more of a contrast with Ned. Still, I am happy that it is a good review. Thanks Karen! Tineke, thanks for your post, glad you made it home safely. Lizza, love those minute, but important details!

Welcome, CherylB! You'll find yourself in good company here. Lizza and Tineke, are your feet touching the ground yet? Many thanks for your prompt reports and opinions. I was wondering how the play would compare with its earlier run. (Lizza) He does not smoke Glad to hear it. I appreciate reports on this and the other *really* important stuff, such as the state of his hair (:-P). To echo Heide and others, no detail is too small, such as BTW his flies held up!! ;-D So he's 'rail thin,' huh? Thinner than he was in March? Jess (ATA) thin? (Karen) Silver hair spotted at the sides. Yowza. This I must be on the lookout for, as well as all those holes in his ears. Hee hee! Have you got your opera glasses ready? (Karen) The Olivier Awards You've read my mind. I thought of this as soon as I heard they were bringing the play back for a longer run. Have fingers and toes firmly crossed (ever try typing with crossed fingers?) for a nomination, at least! (Karen) Am already conjuring up images of Rafe with Regis and Kathie Lee!! ;-D Hmmm, let's see: Kathie Lee: Welcome, Ralph (pronounces it 'Ralph'). I've been dying to tell you how much I loved your performance in Shakespeare in Love. Ralph: That was my brother. KL: You have a brother? It's sooo important to appreciate one's siblings. That's what I told Cody this morning after he hit Cassidy over the head with her Barbie doll. Regis: You're from England...can you tell me how my show--you've heard of it, of course--[turns to camera and shouts] Who Wants to be a Millionaire!--compares with the British version? I'm saving the ABC network, you know. Ralph: No, I didn't know. I stopped watching game shows after I did the movie Quiz Show. Um, can we discuss my new project...? Regis: That's too bad, that's too bad. Well, it was nice to have you. When we come back, we'll be joined by our next guest, Mr. Joe Schmo who won $250,000 on my show [turns to face camera and shouts] Who Wants to be a Millionaire! (Karen) I'm sorry, but the only reason these "guys" like McGovern's performance in Act 2 has to be the slip she wears. ;-D I've been trying to figure that out. Thanks for the insight! Really, it has to be something! I've tried to like her in Scarlet Pimpernel, but so far she hasn't impressed me with her performance in that series. I'm looking forward to more, Lizza and Tineke!

ROTFLOL Eileen! how was the hair? Noticeably thin on top, or okay (not that it matters! :-)). Since I was sitting in the circle, I head a clear view of the crown of his head. Especially when he's playing Ned, it was clear to see that his hair is thinning, but like you say, it doesn't matter. Susan, I can't compare his performance now to the one in March, since this was the first time I got to see 3DOR. About EMcG, I didn't think she was bad. She just lacks this...hm, I can't phrase it.. she lacks warmth. I don't think her acting was bad, it just doesn't come across. BTW, I didn't know people wore thongs in the sixtees ;-)

*squint* *double take* Tineke, what's this about a thong?

Holy moly!! Eileen, that was a riot. Am wiping away the tears from eyes. And what's so funny is that that's exactly the way it would go. Later on in the day, Rafe could go on Rosie's show, where she would ask if he knew or wanted to work with her Tommy boy. ;-D (Tineke) BTW, I didn't know people wore thongs in the sixties ;-) I'm guessing, but is that what she's wearing under the slip? Now, if only Colin (Ned) would wear something equally provocative to bed instead of his white undershirt. grrrrrrrr Opera glasses are going to look rather silly from the front row. Hey, but I'm game. ;-D

Karen, the best thing to do with The Scarlet Pimpernel is to give up. We watched it episode after episode, thinking "BBC costume drama, classic swashbuckling story, big-name actors, maybe it's good and we're just not smart enough to enjoy it." But at the end of the day, we were forced to the conclusion that EMcG is dull, Richard E Grant is a moron, and the show was a turkey.

Has anyone checked The Times today to see if there was a photo with the review of 3DOR?

Thank you very much for all your reviews of SLOW and reports from the Donmar! They are read with eager interest. On the Guardian site is a brief summary with picture for SLOW, status "unreleased", but there's an option to post own reviews: Love it or loathe it? - Tell us what you think. http://www.filmunlimited.co.uk/Film_Page/0,4061,101624,00.html (Come to think of it, IMDB also has such an option. All the lucky ones who saw it, get yourself over there .... ;-) )

And here's an article from the same place, from February. Guess it's not so new, but can't hurt to re-read it again. ;-) http://www.filmunlimited.co.uk/Feature_Story/Guardian/0,4120,28696,00.html

Oh, and if you want to take a look at the 3Deers 3DOR page, it's here: http://www.firth.com/donmar/donmar-entry.htm It is not yet linked to the main page, I'm struggling a bit with software and some other bugs.

No photo in the Times.

Good job, Renate! Three cheers for this Deer!

Very Nice Indeed Renate! :) all those yummy pictures.... which reminds me, *Attention Marcia* has anyone claimed the leather jacket he's wearing in the lobby to sign autographs as a "real life" keepsake? If not, I would dearly love to have it. :) I might even be persuaded to compose an essay, extoling its virtues, over on 113. :)

Many thanks for welcoming me to your conference and many more thanks for letting me enjoy vicariously the thrill of attending a performance of 3DOR. I've always hoped that CF would do a play in New York as I get there about once a year to see 2 or 3 shows. Alas -- his stage work appears to have been done in either London or Los Angeles. I have less chance of getting to Los Angeles than I do to London. Still I live in hope. Plus there's always the movies and TV. I've always enjoyed CF's quirkier projects. So I'm really looking forward to "Donovan Quick", that is if it ever gets an American release. My favorites with Firth are "The Advocate", aka "Hour of the Pig", and "Apartment Zero". Please forgive me this: but I like Russell Crowe. I find him a superb actor and he does have a sexiness. You might wonder if I think him a better actor than Colin Firth? No. Not better in the least, but other. The same can be said of the sensuality he projects, it's different -- like apples to kiwis. I'm saying this as someone who has worked in advertising; different people respond to disparate types of sex appeal. If you're interested as to what my produce preferences are -- it's apples.

(Cheryl) My favorites with Firth are "The Advocate", aka "Hour of the Pig", and "Apartment Zero". Very nice; I like those too--they would be unusual no matter who was in them. Mark - re your reference to Scarlet P on British TV, which I didn't know about. I've been thinking for weeks that there ought to be a remake of the old Leslie Howard film of S.P., which I think is superb, and I think ODB's just the man to do it. He makes a great rake, and I'd like to see him do more roles like that.

Cymbeline, there is a great SP out there with Anthony Andrews, he is absolutely perfect. I can not imagine an improvement. :-) Eileen, now we know who writes for R&K Lee. That was too funny. (Karen), Now, if only Colin (Ned) would wear something equally provocative to bed instead of his white undershirt. You do not really want Colin like that with EMG in bed do you? We will have to ask a Brazilian about the thongs. I believe it all started in Ipanema. ;-D

(Moon) there is a great SP out there with Anthony Andrews, he is absolutely perfect. I can not imagine an improvement. :-) Firthette Rule numero uno: ANY FILM IS IMPROVED BY THE ADDITION OF ODB -- ANY FILM, ANYWHERE, ANY TIME

I went to see MLSF twice on Saturday and once on Sunday and absolutely loved it. I was starting to think I had read so much about it and had been waiting for it for so long that I might be disappointed; but no. It was showing at a fairly new cinema so the screen, sound, seating etc. were excellent. There were between 15 and 20 people at the two morning sessions, and between 45 and 50 at the afternoon session. Everyone laughed at the appropriate times and seemed to enjoy the movie. Quite a few people tayed to the end of the credits whereas normally its only me and whoever I'm with. Does anyone know if there is a soundtrack available in the States? I asked at my local music shop but their computer doesn't have it listed. Cathey

Welcome, Cheryl. Your favourites are two of mine, as well. I just watched The Advocate again last night and I like it better with every viewing and ODB in it. I am hoping to pick up The Hour of the Pig in London for the "enhanced" scenes. Don't throw anything at me but I enjoyed The Scarlett Pimpernel with EMcG and REG especially in their scenes together. My mom and I started watching Vanity Fair the other night and could only take about an hour of it.This series really needed ODB; we never saw anything with such uniformly unappealing men in it and the music is just awful - so inappropriate and obtrusive. I won't be able to compare CF's new interpretations in 3DOR with the March performance (which is perhaps an advantage) but I am rather looking forward to a more energetic portrayal of Walker. Although I find his subtle acting deeply appealing, it will be a nice change to see him do something more over-the-top.Thanks, everybody, for the comments. Three weeks from now, I shall be sitting at the Donmar waiting for the play to begin. Can't wait. Re Colin's Darcy recognition factor. I suppose that when DB does another lead role in a production as successful as P&P (which success was due largely to him, as we know), the focus may shift. I don't think he has given another performance that has made as much of an impact as his Darcy. And he should be proud of that performance - he took what could have been a nothing role with little screen time and turned it into the heart and soul of a five hour mini-series. He should not be frustrated with the media but rather with his inability to find another such exciting part.

Cathey thanks for your report, is it playing all over Australia and have you seen any reviews. Will you go to the MLSF spoilers topic and tell us your thoughts on the film, favourite characters, favourite outfit favourite looks, absolutely anything you think might interest someone who won't be seeing it until May 2000! Many thanks.

Please forgive me this: but I like Russell Crowe. I find him a superb actor and he does have a sexiness. You might wonder if I think him a better actor than Colin Firth? No. Not better in the least, but other.... *********** Cheryl: Russell's a favorite of mine too. The Insider is just so great. However, as you say, apples and oranges...one has a rock band and wears necklaces, the other has dimples, thinning hair, and stands on the street in chains to make a point. I'll go for the Protest Guy! Here's the other one at the Australian awards this past weekend - still carrying that Insider weight! Murph I have a new picture (sadly without Colin) of the TOTS crew thanks to my friend Clive:

SO sorry to mess the whole thing up! I think I'll go back to lurking again. The picture is way too big, and I gave the wrong URL for the TOTS picture. Murph

Eileen, your Regis & Kathy Lee "interview" with Rafe was too fine. I had to read it again during my supper - practically blew my spaghetti sauce all over my monitor. Please forgive me this: but I like Russell Crowe. That's okay, Cheryl, many here like him too. Most of the time we're kidding though never when swearing allegiance to 'da man'. Cymbeline, your Rule #1 should be our motto. Lynda, can't wait to hear your 3DOR thoughts. Any others going soon to fan the flames?

Here is the proper URL for that cast pic: Again, sorry. Murph

For someone who thinks she knows something about http language!!!!!!???? Clear, please! Murph

Well, it took Eileen's hysterically funny interview with Reege 'n Rafe to finally shake me out of lurkdom. Brilliant, Eileen--wish I'd written it. Hmmm . . .maybe on FoF . . .hee hee.;-) I can't resist adding on: Rafe: Can't we please talk about Onegin? About Pushkin? Reege: Sure. Here's our next contestant: Irv Pushkin from Fort Lee, New Jersey! I'm enjoying reading everyone's comments on SLOW, 3DOR, MLSF, and all the assorted Firth-related acronyms, and am glad to have finally made it here!

Mari! Welcome!!! Aloha, too.

I loved the Regis & Kathy Lee interview, even though I never watch their show because Regis is Barfsville IMHO. It sounded so true to life though. Welcome Mari.

MARI!!!! They have barely removed the electrodes from my chest, but I knew I had to get my welcoming banner out. (damn that floor is hard) Evelyn says HI to all as I relieved her of all those things she dragged from England. Shame she couldn't fit Colin into the overhead compartment. I have a lot of scanning, printing and assorted and sundry things to do with that haul, not the least of which is to drool heavily. Here's the link to Mary's cast picture from TOTS: (why on earth wasn't it showing up correctly?) http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/tots/cast.html Great Donmar page, 3Deers. Pretty soon am going to start counting the days. Anbd thanks for the reprise of the "Get Shirty" article, Renate. Love the title. Love how this guy continues to get wet in all his pics. Will have to ask about Londinium...they do go to a seaside resort, so... hmmmm (CherylB) like apples to kiwis Ah yes, we all like the odd apple or two. Would you say he's a Rome Beauty, a Winesap or perhaps a Jonathan? Maybe a Golden Delicious? ;-D You'll find, CherylB, that many of us do admire other actors and their works. Some of us even post little tidbits on other topics here at Drool (like at Jeremy Northam). There is even a Russell Crowe topic here, I think. Russell does an excellent American accent. Was shocked when I found out that both he and Guy Pearce in LA Confidential were Australians. But Colin holds a supreme place here and Cymbeline's Firthette Rule No. 1 would seem basic (except I for one do NOT want to see Colin play the SP--nevah!). However, I'm not a big one on remakes of anything, if the original is one I've liked. The thought of Charade being remade for Will Smith is making me ill. Didn't the Wild Wild West teach these people anything? Cathey, thanks for your report on seeing MLSF. So glad that it finally made it to you and that it didn't let you down after having read soooo much about it. I think Evelyn checked to see if there was a soundtrack and no one had one listed.

Somebody - obviously from "Empire" - pointed the 3Deers to this article: http://www.empireonline.co.uk/news/news.asp?1772

WELCOME MARI and Lynda I second what Heide has said we look forward to your report of your trip to London and 3DOR. Also you may be able to see SLOW, I would think it would still be playing in London in 3 weeks time.

Welcome Mari Unusual sight in today's Times (London) of CF as Darcy astride his horse above a picture of Helen Fielding. The pop-culture photo-article, of course, is about dramatisations of Jane Austen's works, sparked by the BBC's new raunchy Mansfield Park. Also pictured: JA, Fay Weldon, Alicia Silverstone, GP.

Welcome Mari! I hope you become as talkative as we are. :-) Thanks for all the links, Renate, Karen and Murph. ODB is also mentioned in the "Empire" link Renate posted above, click on Blackadder. (Karen), Cymbeline's Firthette Rule No. 1 would seem basic (except I for one do NOT want to see Colin play the SP--nevah!). Most definitely, nevah! Karen, we are looking forward to all of Evelyn's goodies. Mark, you are agent #1. Thanks!

WELCOME, MARI! It's nice to see you here. Glad you enjoyed the 'transcript' from Regis and KL. wish I'd written it. I hope you treat us to a few of your hysterically funny 'conversations'! Lucie, I also rarely watch that show but it's Kathie Lee who gets to me. She's so...hard, so tough nowadays. I've a recurring mental picture of her coming home each day after the show and unshackling Frank from his chair. (Karen) Didn't the Wild Wild West teach these people anything? Clearly not. Further, whyohwhy do the powers that be in H'wood insist on bringing these vintage TV shows to the big screen? I think Brady Bunch was the only success. Now we've got *gag* Charlie's Angels to look forward to! *shakes head in disgust* Thanks for your MLSF report, Cathey. Lynda, sharpen your pencil and take copious notes for us regarding 3DOR and SLOW. Lastly, thanks to Evelyn for bringing back her "haul" and to Karen (in advance) for getting it on-line for the rest of us to enjoy.

(Karen) "They have barely removed the electrodes from my chest, but I knew I had to get my welcoming banner out. (damn that floor is hard)" Uh oh. Sounds like the dreaded My-oh-Colin-al Infarction!;-) Thanks very much to everyone for the warm welcome. Cathey, I'm so glad you enjoyed MLSF. It's one of my favorites, too. Three viewings in two days, you say? Sounds about right.;-) I just saw an Australian website with a very nice review, including an interview with, who else, David Puttnam. There are two Real Player clips from the film, which may be of interest to those who haven't yet seen it. They are *not* the same as the theatrical trailer. I don't have the exact URL, but you can go through the movie review query engine and scroll towards the b ttom of the list of MLSF reviews. http://www.mrqe.com

Some boxoffice info for MLSF in Australia: Released: Thu, Oct 21 1999 [think they meant the 12th] AU Box Office Total $ 48,236 Last Weekend Box Office $ 46,061 Screenings 118 Can't tell how many screens it is on, but looks like only one in Sydney (Village on George St.) and the program shut down (illegal operation) while I was trying other states. :-( FYI, A$48,000 = US$30,800

And on one of the Australian news/film sites, there is a totally new picture being used (of Malcolm McDowell with Fraser and the other kid). That wasn't handed out for publicity here.

Ok, also playing in Victoria (I assume in Melbourne) at the Village City Centre. The Greater Union chain has it listed in Western Australia (Megaplex Innaloo), Queensland (Megaplex Indooroopilly) and New South Wales (Campbelltown, Castle Hill Megaplex 16, and Miranda) Nothing in the ACT or NT. Not too shabby.

Welcome back Tineke, great to read your impressions and also Welcome Mari, you're going to have a great time in three weeks!! Eileen LOL!! if you had seen RF yesterday morning about 7.50am you would not have believed it! he was to follow this up with a session on "Live with Lorraine" on the plush sofa. The bit I saw had him in a voluminous shirt, with several buttons undone so when he was invited to take a croissant "They've been there for days Ralph" purrs the interviewer, he turned full to the camera lent over the plate and exposed yards of chest hair almost to his navel! I am so glad at times that ODB has the good sense not to get involved in charades like that! Or has such appalling taste in shirts!

BTW ODB has great knuckles! I noticed those especially but sadly he does not remove anything but his shirt and has a t-shirt under it! yes it is pretty tough being by the record player! But I pride myself on giving nothing away during the performance and leave it til I get to drool. Karen, looking forward to those goodies you are working on.

(Lizza) The bit I saw had him in a voluminous shirt, with several buttons undone Argh! Is this some new trendy thing? Hugh Grant always appears with his shirts unbuttoned too far. It does NOT look good. Do their fingers get tired?

Hi Gang....Missed you...Glad I had Aishling, AnnW. ,Tineke and Mark around...made the Spring withdrawls less painful. First Spring comments: Welcome Cheryl and Mari.We love newbies...and Mari "it's about time"!! ~~~~~~ Eileen, LMAO with the script of Rafe and Regis.RF is all over the place in London, ....TV, Borders signing books,a Pushkin reading at the Barbican,posters all over the Underground stations.And Onegin premiere tonight at the Odeon on Leiscester Sq. which he will attend.Can't Taking London by storm. ~~~~~~ Ben...let me add my congratulations on your new position....will contact you via email on January Spring Reunion plans. ~~~~~~ Told you all those Voting sites were rigged! ~~~~~~ There is no MLSF soundtrack...Glad you enjoyed the film Cathey. ~~~~~ 3 DOR is sold out for the next 4 weeks, I was told at the BO. When I picked up the January tickets, I was fortunate to get a return. There are returns every day and usually are sold after 7PM... I was lucky :-) ~~~~ 3 DOR Livia was not there on Wed. night. The jacket he is wearing in the protest pic is the same one he was wearing on Wed. night. The night I saw 3 DOR the audience was v. responsive.I love this play....it's loaded with ideas to keep your brain busy for days....but has enough humor to keep it light. After our discussions I saw things that I hadn't realized...the the stark scenery in Act 1 is IMO a refection of the house . He seems to be portraying Walker now with a "coiled-spring" tensemess,nervous erratic movements in contrast to Ned's determined spare movements (and words) It's more intense, but not distracting. I never tire of watching this guy on stage with his "bag of theatrical tricks" .He has an irrepresible manner of speech and movement on stage...but at the same time...it all seems so effortless, never contrived. BTW....I visited the Theatre Museum in Covent Garden which houses the National Archive of Theatre Presentations. I plan to contact them and see if they plan to tape 3 DOR for future viewing at their library. They currently have TRT which was taped in August.Stay tuned. ~~~~~~~~ I had a packed schedule....will give a report on Summerfolk later and answere any questions on 3 DOR.... Lizza and Tineke covered most of it.... I'm off to 121 to give report on SLOW.

(Mari) Sounds like the dreaded My-oh-Colin-al Infarction!;-) *sigh* What a way to go! Welcome home, Evelyn. We missed you too. I'm glad you saw ODB on Wednesday as he was not available after the Saturday evening performance. And he recognized you? *swoon* You did us proud, m'dear! Regarding 3DOR: Which interpretation of Walker do you prefer? Do you think EMcG was better this time around (I'm seeing a range of opinions on the subject, although the critics seem to love her)? Lizza, perhaps Rafe was inspired by Seinfeld's 'puffy shirt' episode.

Dame Evelyn, Welcome back in all your glory!! You described Walker so perfectly. Eileen- quick enlighten me about "puffy shirts" Was this one as vile a colour as RF was wearing?

Do you know how easy it was to find this? Searched on yahoo for "puffy shirt"!!

Welcome back, Evelyn! *waving and grinning like it was Christmas yesterday*

(Eileen)....Regarding 3DOR: Which interpretation of Walker do you prefer? Actually, I prefer the current one...emphasizes the contrast with Ned. David Morrissey plays Pip and Theo on the same level...he presents no contrast between father and son. EMcG southern accent is less pronounced this time and therefore more appealing. I didn't see the thong....my seat was on the stage right side...I missed the action when it was projected to the front...but hey, I had a ringside seat by the drafting table during the confrontation with Theo. ~~~~~ (Karen)*waving and grinning like it was Christmas yesterday* Glad to hear the posters got home....I missed them on the last leg of the flight:-( You have never seen a happier camper than Karen with two sets of publicity pictures!! ~~~~~ BTW Posters for 3 DOR are now available at the BO for 3.50 UKP. No mail orders (I asked).

One more thing...what's this "rail thin" look? Thinner than in March? Thinner than Jess? Or his usual degree of rail thinness? Inquiring minds want to know (the hair assessment has already been addressed) ;-p

(Karen) Ah yes, we all like the odd apple or two. Would you say he's a Rome Beauty, a Winesap or perhaps a Jonathan? Maybe a Golden Delicious?;-D I would say that the Rome Beauty appears to be to whom he's married and Jonathan is his brother. Since CF is reputed to be a bit internet phobic, he may not look fondly upon computers, so definitely not a Macintosh. As for being a Stayman Winesap, yeah I could see that. Mmm -- Golden Delicious, well he is delicious but yellow apples are associated with France and CF is resolutely a Brit. I have it: Red Delicious. The right color for a proper English apple, and no other apple so perfectly gets across the concept of an apple as bright red, glossy, very crisp Red Delicious. The thought of Charade being remade for Will Smith is making me ill. Karen it is said that misery loves company. May I join you in being sick at the thought of that. Whoever came up with that concept is sick or sadistic, or both. It makes my skin crawl.

Welcome back Dame Evelyn....recipient of the most well deserved handshake! And welcome to de-lurkers Mari and Cheryl! Cathey, I was so pleased that MLSF lived up to your expectations! Obviously well worth the wait. I'm almost 100% convinced that it should have opened in the UK in October (as indicated by David Puttnam's PR). If you check out British Airway's website http://www.british-airways.com you'll see that MLSF is listed as in-flight entertainment (Screen 4) for November, along with East is East (just released in the UK natiowide multiplex, much hyped, and The Trench, released a few weeks ago, again nationwide multiplex. A couple of other Brit films are listed, also released last month. All the movies listed h ve opened in the UK...except MLSF. So, in true Sherlock Holmes fashion, I deduce that it was scheduled for an October release, and then mysteriously backburnered for 7 months. Can anyone guess why (I can't!). Answers on a post card please! if you had seen RF yesterday morning about 7.50am you would not have believed it! he was to follow this up with a session on "Live with Lorraine" on the plush sofa. I guess it's the Ralph Fiennes week (bringing out my cat's claws)! Onegin weekends advertised every other minute on Classic fM, two appearances on TV movie programmes, and a clutch of "exclusive interviews" in the glossy mags with Francesca Annis (Rafe's partner) on her relationship with "the intensely private" Rafe. Yee--ee-ch, and there's me vainly searching for a glimpse of Colin. Oh well, give me a man who wears a roundnecked Tee shirt in bed (and trousers, and socks and boots!) How come he's kitted out for a five mile hike, whilst EMcG has stripped down to a black slip? Doesn't he even take his socks off? (Very elegant feet)! Back to RF, and claws out again, fully agree about the "oops, my shirt's unbuttoned to reveal my hairy chest" look. Reminds me of Julio in BJD. Again, I prefer men who have assets but don't flaunt them!

It is amazing that MLSF has not yet opened in Britain. You'd think at least Scotland would get it. It's a mystery. Bethan do you know something I don't? Was it mentioned before that Lina's wearing a black slip or was that just an assumption. Ah, but you wouldn't be able to see that thong too well through a black one...she must still be wearing the white. Hiya Mari! So glad you're back, Evelyn. McG southern accent is less pronounced this time and therefore more appealing. The problem I had with her last March (one of the many, actually) was that she slipped in and out of her Southern accent...in fact sometimes she sounded British. I hope she's consistent this time with whatever accent she chooses to use. Ladies leaving later....you better take a big carry on to fit in those 3DOR posters we're going to ask you to bring back.

Hit Submit too quickly. Eileen has asked this before and not received an answer. How thin is he? Can you ladies make a comparison? Cheryl, your apple comparisons are delish. I agree he can't be a Jonathan or a Macintosh but he's more tart than a Golden or Red Delicious. They're too mushy for my taste and our boy's got a lot more bite to him.

Welcome back Evelyn. Sounds like you had a great time.

Evelyn - welcome back. We were with you every panting breath of the way. Ok. I'm a hand gal, so -- what did they look like and what did they/it feel like? Was it warm or cold? What's his handshake like? Did he look at you while you were talking or was he distracted? How do his hands look on stage? Are they expressive? Are the fingers long, are they graceful? And in ODB's case, I'm a voice gal too. So is it as velvetly beautiful on stage and in real life as in the films? Did he say Wot? Did he say You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love all my Firthettes? Did it reduce you to jelly? What did he say absolutely verbatim? And please include any details you happen to think of.

I don't know if the polls are rigged or not but Murph's site is falling behind. Neither of the other two are nearly as good or as informative as hers so I still vote on all three of the polls daily.

I concur with everything Cymbeline says, Evelyn.

(Heide)Ladies leaving later....you better take a big carry on to fit in those 3DOR posters we're going to ask you to bring back. You won't have to order one....I brought one back for you 'n Karen.:-)) And I don't want any orders (along with autographs!)....those tubes are fiendish to carry. (Eileen)what's this "rail thin" look? Thinner than in March? Thinner than Jess? Or his usual degree of rail thinness? Inquiring minds want to know (the hair assessment has already been addressed) ;-p Usual thinness...like in March. In the 2nd act when he puts on his shirt and tucks it in his trousers....he didn't have to suck it in!!! ~~~~~ (Cymbeline)I'm a hand gal, so -- what did they look like and what did they/it feel like? Was it warm or cold? What's his handshake like? Did he look at you while you were talking or was he distracted? How do his hands look on stage? Are they expressive? Are the fingers long, are they graceful? I'm a hand girl too, Cymbeline.I had kid gloves on so I don't know of the warmth, but his handshake was firm.He did look at me and I conscentrated on his gorgeous eyes.. He uses his hands constantly on stage ( the Italian influence,says Moon).Long slender fingers....beautiful hands. I love to see him sign autographs. ( BTW I don't have one).He seems to enjoy it...even the professional autograph hounds who are constantly there...he is courteous to them too. ~~~~~ Don't you want to know what he was wearing? Docker khaki slacks , Timberland boots, a suede jacket with a sheepskin lining The same one he's wearing in The Protest Picture.He was wearing a tee shirt under the jacket.He was carrying a black duffle bag...(Livia doing the laundry?) After he signed two other autographs he turned around waved, smiled and took off down street with the "darcy-walk".You could spot him any place.

(Cymbeline)I'm a voice gal too. So is it as velvetly beautiful on stage and in real life as inthe films? Did he say Wot? Did he say You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire andlove all my Firthettes? Did it reduce you to jelly? What did he say absolutely verbatim? Everyone who went in March can tell you that his voice is the same off stage as on stage.LOL...I didn't mention Firthettes..or the Internet...or websites. I refuse to have an agenda when I go... I enjoy the moment, and I enjoy just gazing at him. No he doesn't reduce me to jelly...just a glowy feeling. He said it was good to see me...I told him I had come to see Summerfolk and attend the LFF...and had been fortunate to get a return ticket to this performance. I thanked him for doing this stage production and said how much I was looking forward to his future projects. He thanked me for coming. In January I think I'll hide...he'll recognize all of us ...I'm sure

But, Evelyn, what did he say when you asked, "what base did Edward get to with Heloise?" and "Is Peter gay?" ;-D Wasn't Lina's slip nude colored? Checking BA's website for onboard movies...now that's what I call sleuthing! ;-D OK, who's flying BA to London? What a treat!!

(Evelyn)his handshake was firm.He did look at me and I conscentrated on his gorgeous eyes Oh, WOW, Evelyn! Welcome back, I�ve been reading your account of that incredible evening in awe, thanks a lot for every detail. I�m so glad that you enjoyed the play again and the fact that he actually came to you to shake hands and He said it was good to see me.. is stunning. He�s got great manners. All this makes me admire you both even more than before if that�s possible. In January I think I'll hide... Haha, you won�t do anything such, we won�t let you! He�ll notice you again and I want to take some pics of you two.

Evelyn - even the professional autograph hounds who are constantly there...he is courteous to them too. He's a sweetie! (Livia doing the laudry?) Maybe he does his own?? I didn't mention Firthettes..or the Internet...or websites. Wise decision. I conscentrated on his gorgeous eyes And *are* they the color or ripe chestnuts? He said it was good to see me Sob! Well, I'm jelly sitting here gazing at my little screen. he turned around waved, smiled and took off down street with the "darcy-walk". Who was that gorgeous man? You could spot him any place. I wish I could spot him outside my window right this minute. Oh, thanks for the details! And the clothes descriptions--the boots are definitely good. Getting all your eloquently shared impressions is even better than a little sea-bathing!

Welcome back, Evelyn! Thanks so much for the detailed report. You always handle your encounters with him so well.

(Susan) You always handle your encounters with him so well. I think that's because Evelyn treats him no differently from her own sons. ;-D

Evelyn, I loved all the details of your encounter with him. SO----- that's why you were lurking outside the Donmar incognito on Saturday!!! As Elena says we will let you get away with nothing in January!!!

(Susan) You always handle your encounters with him so well. (Karen)I think that's because Evelyn treats him no differently from her own sons. ;-D You mean....I treat him like I would one of my son's friends....and he treats me like one of his mum's friends. ( Sorry Bethan,I don't have gray hair and I don't wear it in a bun!!) ~~~~ I want to take some pics of you two. Nope. Did that last year....this year it's the boss's turn :-D ~~~~~ Forgot to tell you that I attended the London Premiere of Mansfield Park on Sunday evening.Part of the LFF. The writer/director, Patricia Rozema, the producer, the entire cast and Harvey were there.Some of the folks were in black tie so there were no doubt big doins afterwards. The film is beautiful to look at...but NOT Jane Austen's MP. The writer took shocking liberties. Inserted lewd sex scenes and (the worst) changed the character of Fanny Price."So she wouldn't be so boring"...how's that for arroganc . The Q&A period was pretty spirited...with some people contesting her temerity in taking such liberties.Someone near me commented that she must be an American because of her accent. I courteously corrected them...."she's Canadian...she's one of yours".Aishling tells me that the newspapers yesterday said that the sex scenes would be cut for Americans audiences.(They're afraid of the colonies!!) Why don't the Brits rise up and object to defacing JA!! I was an interesting evening.What's with these women directors.... I did not talk to Harvey...I would have wanted to kick him.!!

In this week's TV Times there is a feature about "The Best Programmes on TV this Christmas", TTOTS is mentioned, and every programme shows whose in it, when its on etc and there is a final section for every programme "Reason to watch it" - for TTOTS "Colin Firth is in breeches again" I ask you, obviously they are going to use this to promote the programme even thought he only has a 10min cameo.

( cont.) even though he only has a 10 min cameo. (Don't know quite what happened there, hope you all understand it)

Oh, I saw that as well, Ann! The plot "synopsis" (quoting from memory, correct me if I'm wrong) says "A charming bachelor appoints a young governess to look after two children." I like the "charming". I agree, it looks as though they'll use Colin to promote this....am all in favour of this! TOTS is described as a "gripping horror story" and the producer says it's the best ghost story. Well, instant video replay coming up! Great stuff, Evelyn! You certainly packed a lot into your few days over here!

I have been too busy to post, but have read your news with relish. I just want to add my welcome to Mari and CherylB, and my thanks and congrats to Evelyn, Lizza and Tineke for their exploits and telling us about them :-) and for everyone else for keeping my spirits up.

Couldn't think of a nicer spirit to keep up Gi.

That was very sweet, Lizza *big, embarrassed grin*

I see that the London Evening Standard Theatre Awards are next Monday the 22nd November, and that a recording of the Awards is to be shown on TV the next day 23rd November. The winners will be announced on Monday but do we know who the nominees are and is it too soon for Colin to be included. Fingers crossed for TRT though. This Announcement is at The Albermarle Theatre Website.

Great apple analysis, Cheryl! Since CF is reputed to be a bit internet phobic, he may not look fondly upon computers, so definitely not a Macintosh Hee hee! :-D (Bethan) [Re: MLSF] So, in true Sherlock Holmes fashion, I deduce that it was scheduled for an October release, and then mysteriously backburnered for 7 months. Can anyone guess why (I can't!). It takes a long time for those courier pigeons to transport the reels from one US location (some of which are too small to be called 'cities') to another. Harvey would have tried pony express instead of the pigeons but it cost too much to insure the horses. Thanks for all the 'close encounter of the Firth kind' details, Evelyn. IMO you handled it perfectly. As for Colin, Cymbeline said it best: He's a sweetie! Re: Mansfield Park--there was an article in the NY Times a few weeks ago about Rozema and the liberties she took with Austen. It's creating lots of buzz, no doubt intended. I was surprised to read that some sex scenes are to be cut for American audiences--must be too graphic for our ratings board. Good God, JA must be spinning in her grave! While channel surfing last weekend, I encountered a 'making of' MF bit on an obscure NYC tourist channel (???). They were interviewing one of the actors (not the ne who plays Edmund). I noticed his dimples. He was discussing the costumes. Apparently during initial fittings he was advised that [paraphrasing] in productions of Austen's work, one's breeches must be so tight as to reveal one's mood. My immediate reaction was "they're trying for a Darcy knock-off." Or a cross between Bingley and Darcy, perhaps ;-D

one's breeches must be so tight as to reveal one's mood LOL!! So what mood was he in? New review of 3DOR at the Telegraph found by AnneR (can't believe I missed it last night...I remember feeling drowsy after reading the latest and greatest about RF though...) http://www.telegraph.co.uk:80/et?ac=000576481449931&rtmo=VwVmjwlx&atmo=lllllP1x&pg=/et/99/11/18/btrain18.html A subtle exploration of the legacy of love Kate Bassett reviews Three Days of Rain at the Donmar Warehouse QUEUES for returns are already forming for this clever New York chamber play by Richard Greenberg, starring Colin Firth, David Morrissey and Elizabeth McGovern. Robin Lefevre's quietly excellent production was given a fleeting premiere in March with the same top-calibre cast and its return to the West End is welcome. Greenberg's play blends social satire and serious family tensions, sometimes looking like a knowing cross between Woody Allen and Tennessee Williams, as the action shunts backwards from the Nineties to 1960. In the present day, Firth plays a smart-witted but chronically neurotic thirty-something called Walker. A bit of a Manhattan Hamlet, he did a runner a year back after the death of his father, Ned, a celebrated architect. But now, returning to his native soil, Walker intends to deal with his problematic legacy, and he meets up with his long-suffering sister Nan (McGovern) and childhood friend and rival Pip (David Morrissey). Walker and Nan wryly recall their parents' rotten marriage and argue with Pip about hitherto undisclosed attractions and about who should reside in their father's most renowned, largely glass home. Then the action cuts back and, in the same room, we see rivalries and a love triangle from the past unfold. Firth changes into the desperately shy Ned. Morrissey resurfaces as Pip's father, Theo, who was Ned's architectural partner, and McGovern appears as Nan's mother, the ambitious Southern belle, Lina. Thus Three Days of Rain is a manifestly tempting showcase for a trio of flexible actors while, thematically, contemplating processes of inheritance, the inescapability and elusiveness of the past, and the complexity and mutability of relationships. We perceive how personal characteristics resurface, refracted as through a prism, when Firth transforms from the motor-mouthed, egocentric Walker to the stuttering yet secretly determined Ned. Greenberg's script has its weaknesses. There's a long-lost diary, which is a creaky device, and the play's ending feels rather brusque, like an unfinished building. But he welds domestic tiffs and poetic monologues seamlessly and this cast are extremely deft. Morrissey's Pip, a wannabe smoothie, hovers unsettlingly between patience, fondness and predatoriness. McGovern is alternately dreamily sweet, steely and canny while Firth treads a fine line between absurd twitchiness and arresting intensity. And in he second half, their tentative romance is acutely charming, shot through with a growing sense of future sadness. ******** Don't like that "absurd twitchiness" bit. Wonder if Bassett read our comments re: that part about prisms.

Ben, the St Brides Tavern in Bridewell Place seems to serve Ruddles. 6.30ish on the first night you're over?

(Karen) Wonder if Bassett read our comments re: that part about prisms I wouldn't be a bit surprised! It sounds as though Colin's revised interpretation of Walker (more twitching) is accomplishing its desired effect. The difference between Walker and Ned has been mentioned in most recent reviews (unless I'm confusing published reviews with publish-caliber remarks from Lizza, Tineke, Evelyn, etc.).

QUEUES for returns are already forming for this clever New York chamber play That's what I like to read! I'm happy that the Telegraph re-reviewed it. A fresh boost is always welcome. Karen, don;r read Rafe's reviews! Actually, the only one I've read (The Times) wasn't very good, but the movie is getting sensational marketing, and a lot of hype and very clever use of superlatives..."swooningly handsome romantic hero", "Byronically beautiful" (yee-e-ech!), "stupendous". The Times says that" director and srar are confident that the story will communicate with a modern audience...but there's no sense of forward movement, and there's something frozen about the film, despite its immense dec rative appeal. Also says Rafe is ".cold"" Onegin wears curling papers (for the curly hair) and a corset. But I would like to see Colin borrow Rafe's PR staff...they really know how to sell their product!

Also says Rafe is "cold" Shocking pronouncement!! ;-o

Here's another Bridget Jones review, a bit too long to post here: http://www.thisislondon.com/dynamic/lifestyle/top_review.html?in_review_id=229534&in_review_text_id=178164

But I would like to see Colin borrow Rafe's PR staff. Corbett & Keene 122 Wardour St. London.Who also did PR work for SIL and Bedrooms and Hallways.V. prominent PR firm in UK.I bet pricey.Shall we pass the hat around and hire them for ODB? BTW... I like Rafe. ~~~~~ Thanks Karen for the3 DOR reviews I think the reviewers are definitely picking up the difference in Walker/Ned's personalities this time around....Colin's new Walker seems to be making an impact.I liked it. Didn't anyone review SLOW? We saw a guy with a tape recorder during the Q&A.

Corbett & Keene 122 Wardour St. London.Who also did PR work for SIL and Bedrooms and Hallways.V. prominent PR firm in UK.I bet pricey.Shall we pass the hat around and hire them for ODB? LOL! How do you know these things, Evelyn? Although many a true word spoken in jest....they're very good at their job!

London Evening Standard Theatre Awards are next Monday the 22nd November... to be shown on TV the next day 23rd November. The winners will be announced on Monday but do we know who the nominees are... Fingers crossed This was in today's Evening Standard, could it be a hint? "THREE DAYS OF RAIN (rated excellent) Colin Firth, first dressed in valiantly worn dejection and then as his stammering father, gives ONE OF THE TRHREE BEST MALE PERFORMANCES THIS YEAR."

Oh, bother - seems my hand was shaking... :-)

Arami, what great news! Colin is a nominee! Who are the other three? Is this award indicative for the BAFTAS? Will we be throwing another party at cf.com? :-D

Of course, I did not mean the Baftas but the Oliviers. Have you seen this 3DOR Review? http://www.albemarle-london.com/3days.html They also link it to the 3DOR Web site which I believe is Murphs.

Meluchie has posted a Fever Pitch page of new DVD captures. http://www.grin.net/~meluchie/fpdvd.html Murph has two new pics of MLSF In the Rain pics: http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/mlsf/mlsfrain.html http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/mlsf/mlsf.html

I was at some friends last night who announced that TTOTS had been filming in their street! They live in a very elegant square in Hammersmith (west London). All they saw was the attempts to disguise the many cars in there as carriages!

Allison, will you be able to check the Evening Standard between now and Monday to see if they mention the nominees for The Evening Standard London Theatre Aawards. Unfortunately we don't get the ES in my neck of the woods.

Allison, don't you think that the Hammersmith location would have been the Master's (Colin's) London residence, where the governess comes to interview for the job? All they saw was the attempts to disguise the many cars in there as carriages! Really?! Here, they post "no parking" signs and the cars must find new homes. (where I'll never know)

I thought I read on Murph's site the name of the house where they had been filming Colin's scene but these could very well be the scenes of her arriving at the Master's residence.

That's right. Syon Park was used for the interior of the Master's house in town and Thames something in Oxfordshire was the main location. So if they shot exteriors in Hammersmith, Colin wouldn't have been there. You don't have to castigate your friends now. ;-D

This from Aishling: From today's Daily Mail (Baz). Felicity Kendal is playing the Empress of China in an establishment-bashing adaptation of Aladdin for Radio 4 which will go out Christmas morning. Jennifer Ehle will play a princess. " Jennifer on Christmas morning and Colin on Boxing Day....what a gift!!

BTW Timeout has chosen 3DOR as one of its 5(?) must see plays in London this week.

With Rafe as the wicked uncle? Sorry Evelyn!

Does the Evening Standard have a URL?

Yes it does.I am sure Bethan, Allison, Karen et al will enlighten you. We used it when 3 DOR review first came out in March.

The Evening Standard's site is "This is London" http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/dynamic/index.html

Speaking of which, here's the article about the ES's awards, which was at lunchtime (so Colin could attend). Also no mention of Jennifer or any Best Actress noms. Star line-up at Standard Awards Four hundred directors, playwrights, producers, actors and actresses will gather at the Savoy today to honour the theatre world. Alan Bates, Alison Steadman, Stephen Berkoff, Felicity Kendal, Jonathan Pryce, Lindsay Duncan and Ned Sherrin are just a few of the familiar faces who will be in the audience. Vanessa Redgrave, winner of the Evening Standard Awards' Best Actress title a staggering four times and in four different decades, is to present the Sydney Edwards' Best Director Award. Jonny Lee Miller, who rose to fame as Sick Boy in Trainspotting and was last month voted one of the ten sexiest men in the world in a magazine poll, is to present another award. Also, John Hurt who's extraordinary transformations have ranged from Quentin Crisp to the Elephant Man is to present the award for Best Actress. Anna Chancellor, Duck Face in Four Weddings and a Funeral and currently appearing as Reagan in the RSC's King Lear, will present the Best Designer Award and Joan Collins will be flying in to present a special prize. The event will kick off with a champagne reception, followed by lunch and the presentation of the nine all-important awards. As well as those for best actor, actress and director, they will include one for the outstanding newcomer, and the biennial Patricia Rothermere Award, which comes in two parts: the first for a major contribution to the theatre and the second in the form of a three-year bursary to a drama student. This will be presented by Lady Rothermere. Among the hardest fought of all the categories were best actor and Evening Standard/Carlton Television best musical. A host of strong performances in the running for the former include Henry Goodman in The Merchant of Venice, Stephen Dillane in The Real Thing, Colin Firth in Three Days of Rain and Michael Sheen in Look Back in Anger. Hotly tipped musicals include Mamma Mia, Candide, Spend Spend Spend and The Lion King. Critic and broadcaster Simon Fanshawe will host the ceremony, which is being filmed by Carlton Television; highlights will be broadcast on Tuesday at 7.30pm. Check back here later today for the list of winners.

According to the Daily Mail and Albermarle Theatre website the Awards should be on Monday, how strange. Fingers crossed for either Colin or failing that Stephen Dillane.

Found this at the This Is London Page: **************** by Michael Owen Sir Richard Eyre took two personal awards today and the company he led for 10 years claimed another four top trophies when the Royal National Theatre scored a virtual clean sweep of the year's premier theatrical honours - the Evening Standard Drama Awards. "There must be something in the Eyre," an above-the-title actor intoned teasingly to a familiar tune, as the occasion turned into a brilliant valediction for the director who ran the South Bank complex for a decade until his retirement last month. Sir Richard received the best director prize for two productions - King Lear and The Invention Of Love - then was movingly acclaimed by senior actor of the British stage, Paul Scofield, who presented him with a Special Award in recognition of his leadership of the National. Cue for ovation of the day. Ian Holm, who conquered a 15-year attack of stage fright that kept him out of theatre work, took the best actor award for his performance as King Lear, which was staged in the NT's Cottesloe studio. He was presented with his statuette by legendary French actress Jeanne Moreau, who made today's presentation lunch at the Savoy the first of her appearances as patron of the current French Theatre Season in London after arriving from Paris last night. Saying British theatre was "the best in the world", she said: "It's marvellous - even if the French don't like it if we say that." The best actress title went to Eileen Atkins and she received it from her co-star in the West End production of Edward Albee's A Delicate Balance - Dame Maggie Smith, who had earlier been considered a rival for the award. The two actresses embraced on stage - but only learned later that the judges had cheekily recommended that they might consider alternating their roles in the drama about an American household possessed by unknown fears. Sir Tom Stoppard created a new record when he took the best play title for the fifth time, for The Invention Of Love. It was presented by Dame Diana Rigg, who starred in two of his previous award-winning works: Jumpers and Night And Day. Playwright and TV comic actor Patrick Marber, who won the best comedy section for his debut play Dealer's Choice two years ago, took the same award for his new play, Closer. The triumph was announced by Nigel Planer, taking time off from his role as Mr Cellophane in Chicago, to present the celebrity audience with a masterclass in the etiquette of presenting and receiving awards.

Is my previous post up to date? I'd hate to be posting old news. Murph

Was that item from last year? or the year before? ;-D

Old news, I think. "Lear" was a couple of years ago. Great to see Colin's name in the running.

From an interview with Bridget Jones in today's This Is London (Evening Standard) If money were no object, where would you like to live in London? Colin Firth's house. Where are you least likely ever to live in London? Colin Firth's house. Gosh, that woman so bravely speaks for us all...

Murph - this year's celebrity King Lear - Nigel Hawthorne - has been mercilessly panned, I'm afraid...

Sorry! I had a feeling it was old stuff. I'll do anything for a scoop! This from the This Is London Site, said by Sam Mendes at the London Film Festival. The article says it was the most successful one ever. Could this mean he will be watching CF every night, and perhaps decide to do a project (stage or theater) with him? One can only hope. ***************************** "I have been to several openings of American Beauty but this is by far the most emotional," said Mendes on introducing the film to an Odeon audience of many of his friends and relations, including his mother and father. Though he has had other film offers, he has already decided to spend the next two years in the theatre at his beloved Donmar Warehouse. Bold face mine. "Then we'll see but it is difficult to imagine another film project as involving as this," he added. ***********************

Folks have done the "film role I want to see Colin do" thing, but what about a stage performance you would like to see him do? I'd like to see him play George from "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf" opposite a really strong actress like Miranda Richardson. Murph

Thank you Karen.

I would like to see him do Hamlet since that is the role he played when he caught the eye of the producer who gave him his first stage role which turned into his first movie role. Another Country.

One little article by Helen Fielding will probably bring more attention to the existence of ODB than a thousand publicists (or ODB!!) ;-D

He is a master of the subtleties that is needed to play areally great Hamlet.

(Murph) I'd like to see him play George from "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf" Maybe in about 10 years. ;-D I've always maintained that Colin is really suited to many of Paul Newman's earlier roles (Sweet Bird of Youth, Long Hot Summer, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof)... or maybe it's just Tennessee Williams. But the Young Philadelphians works too.

(Arami)From an interview with Bridget Jones in today's This Is London (Evening Standard) : If money were no object, where would you like to live in London? Colin Firth's house. Where are you least likely ever to live in London? Colin Firth's house. Gosh, that woman so bravely speaks for us all... My! She is shameless just like some of us ;-) (KJArt)One little article by Helen Fielding will probably bring more attention to the existence of ODB than a thousand publicists (or ODB!!) I agree. But I'm afraid HF's flattering may keep ODB away and what would Livia think about her little comments?

Cathey and Ann, and anyone in OZ, when you next see MLSF could you please check out the running time? Do you have a different ending to the US version? Any additional scenes? (impossible to know this, I suppose!) As an ardent "Why aren't we getting MLSF" sleuth//theorist, I'm just wondering if there are different versions for different markets. MLSF must have taken a drubbing at its initial pre-view in the US and subsequently given a severe re-edit, losing 30 minutes ( a quarter of the movie)to make it less "boring"!! There were two versions of "The Advocate"...US/European....with a 15 minute difference in runnng time ( ie not just those sex scenes!) Could this be the case with MLSF?

But the Advocate was only shortened for the US market: with MLSF it seems I'll have to buy both versions of the video now...oh, bother. (Btw, the UK and US versions of The Hostages are also (slightly) different.) Colin is still too young for the male lead in Who's Afraid..., I'm afraid... But he's still not too old for Hamlet (Murph, wasn't Olivier about 40 when he made the film?) - and it seems like it's slipping away from him... what a pity! Especially that it's the only role which he has publicly admitted wishing for. But perhaps after the 3DOR triumphs, he will have a chance. About Helen Fielding's shameless longing for Colin (in her Bridget's guise): it may be a bit tiresome, but ultimately I hope they all - including Livia - can see the joke. From our point of view, it seems a bit unfair, though, because her status as a fashionable writer shields her from an accusation of "verbal stalking", "harassment", etc., which any of his "normal" (?...;-)) fans (like us here) would immediately be subjected to, if we drooled so openly.

Well said Arami! Maybe her lustre is a teeny bit tarnished after some reviews I have read, but it won't stop everyone buying the book. Do we have a date for the announcement of the BJD cast? Wait, I 'm probably on the wrong board!

The Australian Cinefile website lists MLSF's runtime at 93 min - the same as the in the US. Interesting though, in the Variety review (done after Cannes), it shows the RT at 97 min - probably draft press materials. Just noticed, that the shot used on the MLSF poster (US) is from the same scene as in the Australian handout, but you couldn't tell they were were pjs. ;-D

But the Advocate was only shortened for the US market: with MLSF it seems I'll have to buy both versions of the video now...oh, bother. (Btw, the UK and US versions of The Hostages are also (slightly) different.) Colin is still too young for the male lead in Who's Afraid..., I'm afraid... But he's still not too old for Hamlet (Murph, wasn't Olivier about 40 when he made the film?) - and it seems like it's slipping away from him... what a pity! Especially that it's the only role which he has publicly admitted wishing for. But perhaps after the 3DOR triumphs, he will have a chance. About Helen Fielding's shameless longing for Colin (in her Bridget's guise): it may be a bit tiresome, but ultimately I hope they all - including Livia - can see the joke. From our point of view, it seems a bit unfair, though, because her status as a fashionable writer shields her from an accusation of "verbal stalking", "harassment", etc., which any of his "normal" (?...;-)) fans (like us here) would immediately be subjected to, if we drooled so openly.

Colin is still too young for the male lead in Who's Afraid..., I'm afraid... But he's still not too old for Hamlet (Murph, wasn't Olivier about 40 when he made the film?) - and it seems like it's slipping away from him... what a pity! Especially that it's the only role which he has publicly admitted wishing for. But perhaps after the 3DOR triumphs, he will have a chance... Arami and all: Burton was 41 when he made Who's Afraid, and Olivier was 41 when he made Hamlet. Arthur Hill, who played George on stage in the original, was around 43 years old. So the age of all these actors above makes it feasible for CF to do both parts now. Sometimes, to me, in some pictures, he is an older-looking 39 year old. Murph Re Who's Afraid, my husband tell me Uta Hagen will repeat her role as Martha in a revival coming up. She was too young the first time for the role, and a bit old for it now!

Interesting question: In which play would you like to see Colin Firth. Actually the Tennessee Williams play I can imagine him most in would be "Night of the Iguana". I think he would also be quite effective in Arthur Miller's "The Crucible", and if he could cultivate a really good American accent, Thornton Wilder's brilliant satire "Our Town". CF could be very enjoyable in that old comic chestnut "Arsenic and Old Lace". (For those of you who know it better from the film, he would be in the Cary Grant role.) As for "Hamlet", he's not to old for the part yet. I saw Kevin Kline play it at the the New York Shakespeare Festival when he was in his forties. Although it seems that Jonathan Firth is more likely to be cast as Hamlet than is Colin; as JF is building up quite a resume of Shakespearian performances, (i.e., Henry VI, Romeo, Marc Antony), these things can be important when casting. Now as to Helen Fielding, because she is a relatively well know writer, being able to note things that the rest of can't, lest we be suspected of stalking. Drat. I did so want express my desire to check into a sleazy motel with CF and have a cheap and sordid affair over the weekend. Just kidding. As if CF could be cheap and sordid. Well only if he's acting and the part requires it.

I may be wrong but I think The Theatre Awards are only being shown on ITV London- check listings.

(CherylB) Although it seems that Jonathan Firth is more likely to be cast as Hamlet than is Colin; as JF is building up quite a resume of Shakespearian performances Yes, and didn't we in the US just recently have the honor of seeing JF play a fairy? Oh, no that wasn't Midsummer Night's Dream after all. I love baby brother, I love baby brother...just don't want to see him take roles that rightfully belong to big bro.;-)

(Murph) Sometimes, to me, in some pictures, he is an older-looking 39 year old. Hm... I still think he's a tad too boyish, even when wearing a dinner jacket and a frown... (CherylB) Jonathan Firth is more likely to be cast as Hamlet than is Colin I'm sorry, but it would be a travesty. Jonathan is quite an able actor, but is he truly acclaimed world class? Perhaps Jon has been a bit more lucky in his choice of repertoire (at least until recently...) But seriously, compare not WHAT, but HOW they have done, and Colin wins hands down. Even Colin as a fairy would be a far more stupendous performance. as to Helen Fielding, because she is a relatively well know writer, being able to note things that the rest of can't... As if CF could be cheap and sordid. I don't know about sordid, but cheap? How could she ever imagine it might be possible to buy into his house? (AnnW)I think The Theatre Awards are only being shown on ITV London You're right! Only Carlton will be showing it - other ITV regions are showing different programs! Horror!!! Can you imagine the impudence - they think the rest of the country doesn't deserve it!!! Whoever lives in the area, please get ready to record! And remember, I can do copies.

The Theatre Awards are not being shown in my area either (Meridian) but I will ask my sister and No.1 son to record it for me so that if one of them forgets I should have at least one recording.

Ann, I am out tomorrow but will record it!

Great, thankyou Allison, but its on Tuesday evening 7.30pm on Carlton.Fingers crossed for Colin, Jennifer and SD.

Plays to see Colin in--- How about "Closer"? Evelyn didn't you see it on Broadway? I saw it in the West End.

Fingers crossed for Colin, Jennifer and SD. Don't want to seem uncharitable, but my fingers are crossed only for CF and JE. CF's been pipped at the post before, and I'd like to see him win some serious recognition. Anyway, he may need it to counteract the Bridget Jones effect. Has anyone else read the sequel? I've given it a quick read and, overall, like it (will post impressions later at #80), but I can't decide whether it's good or bad for CF! He gets many mentions as himself (Bridget is still fixated on the wet shirt) and also appears as himself (the Independent interview, plus a very funny piece where he phones Bridget on her answerphone.) And Mark Darcy is very much a lust object....based on? OR is it just me who thinks he's based on...perhaps 99% of readers won't think this!! "He is lovely. Love looking at Him asleep. V. sexy broadshoulders and hairy chest.Not that sex object or anything. Interested in brain" He also has "firm, little buttocks"...although admittedly this is Tom's observation!! And then there's the bald patch... "I stroked his hair. I kissed his bald patch where his fur had been loved off" This is a reference to the fact that children always have one toy that they love more than all the others, even when its fur has been rubbed off, and the child still thinks its the most beautiful toy in the world, and can't bear to be parted from it. Mark Darcy is also described as "cuddly and vulnerable", oh, and "naked" in this scene. CF is included (with several others)in Helen's acknowledgements..."With thanks for...inspiration, feedback and support" Which is why, perhaps, a serious acting award wouldn't go amiss!

(Bethan) CF is included (with several others)in Helen's acknowledgements... "With thanks for...inspiration, feedback and support" I love it and can't wait to read the book. Mark Darcy was v.sexy in the book. The inspiration is obvious. Wonder how much feedback and support he provided? ;-D

And, btw, I've installed a new Main page for the Drool bucket repository. Thanks to Renate for finding the bucket. ;-D http://www.spring.net/~KarenR/mdbro/main.html

Wonder how much feedback and support he provided? ;-D This is insufferable, indeed! So why can't he provide feedback and support for the rest of us??? (Unless, of course, he really told her to lay off and she's sarcastic... it's possible, you know... ;-).)

Wonderful bucket Karen! Lovely work to brighten a dull and grey Sunday, thank you :)

Whoops, obviously the accolades that followed are invisible to all but the most devoted Firthettes!!

Love the dark bucket, Karen! One must dig deep to get the latest scoop, and that my dear you do very well, thanks!

For anyone who is interested, I've posted the main CF extract from BJ: the edge of reason at #80. Murph, please free to direct anyone to it! Had a look at the Sundays..I don't think there's going to be any promotion for SLOW. Posters in London?

Had a look at the Sundays..I don't think there's going to be any promotion for SLOW. Posters in London? If you saw the Optimum offices (and I use the term loosely) you wouldn't be surprised. But their heart is in the right place:-D

Hear Ye, Hear Ye... Last chance to vote for Murph's website.. Polls close on Monday evening, UK time. C'mon.... now's he's third ...behind Robson Green.!! Vote Early....Vote Often! http://britishtheatre.about.com/arts/britishtheatre/library/weekly/blabtwa-vote.htm

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! Colin didn't win. Dillane did. :-( Here's the article: http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/dynamic/hottx/top_review.html?in_review_id=230151&in_review_text_id=179044 And no play was awarded "best" play. What kind of awards are these? btw, the winners must have known, as Dillane's acceptance was on video.

(Karen) Colin didn't win. Dillane did. :( And nothing for Jennifer either. For spite, I'm not watching tomorrow night.;-)

And I was just about to go out in the cold and buy a copy of the ES. Shall stay in and reread lovely snippets from that discerning lady, Helen Fielding. At least someone out there has taste!

Bummer all around... IMO Pay Back Time: Hard for those judges to pass up a Tom Stoppard play and give it to a "foreigner". Remember how the British press went on and on during the Tony awards because "Amy's View" didn't win and "Sideman" did? (BTW..I agreed with them) They weren't about to give Richard Greenberg any recognition. And besides...I didn't think The Lion King qualifies as a Musical Play...a spectacle,ok. ~~~~ Oh no,....now I'll have to keep Mari and Karen from hurling tomatoes when we go to see TRT in January !:-D

Karen, congrats for the SLOW page! Content and looks are both very good. Colin didn't win. Dillane did. :-( I see it this way: ODB didn't win the award, but it can't be bad for him to have been on the shortlist for "best actor of the year". I'm sure this will be recognised by the right people, except his agent perhaps. ;-)

Colin didn't win. Dillane did. :-( I see it this way: ODB didn't win the award, but it can't be bad for him to have been on the shortlist for "best actor of the year". I'm sure this will be recognised by the right people, except his agent perhaps. ;-) :-( Is this award any indication of how the Oliviers will go? Mari, do watch it and tell us if Colin was there. Allison, Ann, Bethan, Arami or Lizza please tell us. Would he have gone knowing in advance that he did not win? They might have asked SD for a tape just in case he did win and was not able to attend.

I shall watch but I don't expect to see him.

You're not going to believe this!! MLSF has played (and may still be) in Spain. It's title is "Los Secretos de la inocencia" (Secrets of Innocence). A Madrid listing Cartelera (Oct 8) at: http://www.estrelladigital.es/Cartelera/paginas/cine_cartelera_madrid.htm According to this page, it is still there: http://www.interocio.es/cine/cines.htm (btw, Gi, Albufera cinemas are shown) Also, here's a review in spanish, with a couple of pictures of Irene Jacob and MEM we haven't seen. http://www.cinemagazine.com/cast/cartelle/S/secretos/secretos.htm Need better translator, but mentions "brilliant" cast they've assembled (Colin for Fever Pitch, I assume) and movie has sat around for 2 years and undergone much editing. Nothing about Colin's performance that I can figure out. ;-D

I am looking for two tickets for 3 DOR for Sat. Jan. 15th,evening performance. The Donmar Box Office only has singles available. If you have any for sale or hear of any, pl. email me. Thank you. evelyn

Oh, drat! And double drat again. How disappointing. I had my fingers crossed, but, have to say, when it comes to awards, the guy ain't lucky! Was there a short-list of nominations as such, or do they just announce "The winner is.." I agree with Allison...he won't be there (but someone please record it just incase! :-) I also agree with Evelyn...Richard Greenberg's actual play (as opposed to the performances) didn't get universal acclaim first time round, although second time around, Greenberg is getting more recognition, with references to his earlier work and standing in US theatre. But he's not British! Tut!

Bethan, I had already been to see MLSF (4th time) before I read your post so didn't take exact note of the running time, but estimate it to be around the 100 minute mark; sorry. From what I understand, the Aust. version had one short scene missed out (Edward & Moira dancing while Fraser doing talk over), but appears to have an additional scene at the end showing Fraser going off to boarding school, saying goodbye to his mother, sister and various servants and then stopping by the loch to say goodbye to his Dad who tells him he had looked up the meaning of fellatio in the medical dictionary and it was something he shouldn't start at boarding school (or something along those lines) Few extra looks at Colin (yippee). As far as I can tell, we have only had the 1920 version here. I will see it again when it comes to our local Art Theatre (hopefully before London) and will take particular note of the running time then.

Please forgive me Heide and Arami. I didn't mean that Jonathan Firth should be cast as Hamlet rather than Colin Firth. It just seems at this point in time JF has the stronger repertoire in classical theater. We all know CF would be the better choice. It does give one pause though that CF has never been cast professionally as Hamlet, while Keanu Reeves has, at the Stratford Festival in Canada no less. There was reasoning behind such apparent madness. Basically it was for the money his appearance would generate; that, and Reeves being Canadian. I won't be checking in on the conference for a few days, as I'm going off to visit my Mom for Thanksgiving. I plan to assuage my despondency over CF not winning the best actor award by stuffing myself with a turkey dinner. So to all of the other Americans on this list: I wish you HAPPY THANKSGIVING! To the international members, I hope you enjoy a great fourth Thursday in November.

the winners must have known, as Dillane's acceptance was on video. That *could* account for some of Colin's apparent lousy humour last week or the week before. Is this award any indication of how the Oliviers will go? I doubt it. But don't hold your breath. There's something about Colin which prevents him from getting more serious, formalized recognition. I'm not sure if it's down to luck alone. Would he have gone knowing in advance that he did not win? I doubt it. He once said he didn't enjoy those gatherings. They might have asked SD for a tape just in case They do go to some lengths to keep the final score secret, but I can't imagine asking *potential* winners for thanks in advance on video... What most probably happens is, the tapes with absentee real winners - who are "sworn" to secrecy - are blitz-filmed within 24 hours before the presentation ceremony. All right, CherylB, you are forgiven - just this once... ;-)

Having seen TRT four times and 3 DOR three...I can assure you that TRT is the better play. SD was brilliant..and if you remember Ann and I said in June that he would be Colin's competition for the awards.I do think that reviewers judge not only the actor's skill but also the play.Having said that, who the h*** is Jamie Dee and that play she won for!!(Shoots down all my theories)BTW Jeremy Irons won a Tony for Henry in TRT in NY. It is definitely a role that any actor would kill for. And why isn't Colin playing the role in Anna Karenina instead of SD? Instead of all the bits and pieces he's been doing this summer!

What is TRT? And what Anna Karenina are we talking about? And do you mean Vronsky and if so isn't he--dare I say it?--a little long in those lovely teeth for that role?

That *could* account for some of Colin's apparent lousy humour last week or the week before. He was in good humor the night I saw him...two weeks ago.

(Cybeline)What is TRT? And what Anna Karenina are we talking about? And do you mean Vronsky and if so isn't he--dare I say it?--a little long in those lovely teeth for that role? 1. TRT is The Real Thing 2. Anna Karenina : Read the article in the ES (Evening Standard)about the awards. Explains that SD (Stephen Dillane) is in Poland taping Ann Karenina and could not attend the awards presentation. 3. SD (look above) is the same age as Colin and no I don't think they are too old for Vronsky.Colin is really very youthful in person.

Evelyn - thanks for the explications. No question that ODB could do Vronsky beautifully--as what could he not?--esp since he likes playing cads. And he'd look gorgeous in a Russian imperial uniform. Just imagine the scene when little what's her name is waiting for him to ask her to dance the whatchacallit and he asks Anna instead (it's been a while since I read it!). Lots of swashbuckling, riding, and sex--it definitely has scope. Alas! Another question to the Firthettes in the Firth Circle. Nobody ever talks about MOTM--is it any good? Is it available on video? Where does it rank amongst his other works?

I read in an article that his political incorrectness goes against him with the establishment. Many held his playing the part of Robert so brilliantly in Tumbledown against him for some time. The writer who wrote it seemed to think that that was why he didn't win for Darcy.

(Evelyn)And why isn't Colin playing the role in Anna Karenina instead of SD? Instead of all the bits and pieces he's been doing this summer! 'Cos Livia wanted to be in London getting the new house straight. (Lucie)I read in an article that his political incorrectness goes against him with the establishment Can you remember which article this was? The theatrical establishment has very different standards from the political. I assumed only the latter had their feathers ruffled by Tumbledown. I think it is Colin's modesty that prevents him being recognised by his peers who decide these things. People often take you at your own estimation of yourself and Colin's self effacing manner may make him easy to overlook. It is interesting that the only award he received for P&P was from the broadcasting critics, not from BAFTA or any of the other luvvie organised groups.

Jamie Dee...best actress? Now there's a puzzler. She is currently starring in "Comic Potential" a new comedy by the very established playwright Alan Ayckbourne. Now, I only read the reviews (don't actually go-see!) and I remember the reviews were very modest...below par Ayckbourne. I don't recall reading anything memorable about the performances. To be honest, Vanessa Redgrave got much better reviews, so did Elizabeth McG (Don't wish to rub salt into the wound, but I was listening to "The Front Row", a radio programme, and their critic praised the cast of 3DOR, and then said that the "marvellous" EMcG was a cert for an Olivier nomination!) I agree with Arami and Allison...I just don't think Colin will get the nod of recognition from his peers. Remember the 5 BAFTAs for best actor awards for SIL - Tom Wilkinson had been nominated the previous year as well.

Continuing (how can you tell I'm supposed to be "working" from home!) As to the impact of political incorrectness, I don't know. But I was struck that at CF's recent protest outside the Houses of Parliament, he was accompanied by Corin Redgrave. CR has always been a political activist, and his career has suffered, especially when he was younger. He was banned from working for the BBC for over 10 years. Shouldn't think any of this matters now, though. As to the ES awards...I'm disappointed for Colin (would have actually liked him to play Henry, not SD!). I hope he'll play theatre again, and maybe be offered one of the more defining roles. I got the impression with 3DOR that he came into it a bit late (it was always "EM heads the cast") and may have been very nervous about the critics' reaction. Believe me, some of the critics would have loved to have roasted him.."Colin Firth may look good in a wet shirt, but can he act?".. Actors like Rufus Sewell, Al n Rickman, Nigel Hawthorne have recently had horrendous reviews, Ken Branagh has said he will never act on stage again because it's so difficult to even get out of bed after bad reviews..A. Hopkins said something similar. It's better to be a relatively unknown actor on stage. I think CF did more than okay, and without his best asset, which is his natural accent/voice! Must get on with my WORK! But this is more interesting! Felt a pang when I read that SD was doing Anna Karenina. Although it's Channel 4, and also the recent film version of "AK" flopped, and even in "Onegin" I get the impression that some critics are impatient with the life and loves of bored Russian aristos (don't they have a day job?) But I would like to see CF in a lead role in another serious slowly unfolding TV series/drama (the sort of work he used to do)! where he can develop a character...it's a out time he was offered something decent. There's a new Andrew Davies/Sue Birtwistle production on BBC next week ..Mrs Gaskell's "Wives and daughters", starring Francesca Annis..which is being advertised as "from the makers of P&P." AD and SB apparently had complete freedom to chose whatever they wanted, and again, can't help but wish they'd gone for something with a decent male lead role, not female-driven drama! I mean, I'm pleased that we'll see him on Boxing Day TV, but the acting honours/opportunities will go to Jodhi May, and it will be a mixed pleasure to watch...I shall probably end up getting hugely irritated and muttering at the screen about why don't they give him some real work for a change! Finally. I shall grit my teeth and watch Jonathan Ross's Film Night tonight, in the perhaps vain hope that SLOW will be featured, There's also a Movie programme on Channel 5 later in the week. Back to WORK!!!!

Huh! Drat those ES awards......and how dicouraging for Colin. Just opened the Guardian (am still trying to work! :-) and there's a full page coverage of the awards (Pics of SD and Jamie Whatsit). Headline..."West End's new plays disappoint"..."the judges for one of the top theatrical prizes decided not to award the Evening Standard best play award because nothing on the London stage deserved it...the decision was unprecedented. In the absence of a best play, the most promising playwright award went to the young American writer, for The Glory of Living, at the Royal Court (Who, what?) "The best actress award went to Jamie Dee, playing an android in Alan Ayckbourne's Comic Potential, where the performers won reviews far more glowing than the play itself (they were not glowing...for "glowing", read CF's reviews!) Destroys our theories. This will really get audiences rushing to the West End...and why do they have to do this when CF is performing in a new play (for no financial gain)for the rest of the year, poor guy. BU*G*R!!! Can someone cheer me up, or I'll never get any work done. Am going out! (And if Jonathan Ross, he of LCD taste, slags off SLOW (he will!), I'll throw a brick at the telly! Thank God for Helen Fielding!

Finally (and really am going out!), I hope CF doesn't read the papers...He's got to go on stage and perform this evening (which is more than critics have to do!)

I don't remember the name of the article or the paper, it has been too long ago.

(Arami), That *could* account for some of Colin's apparent lousy humour last week or the week before. Is there something we should know? How do you know he was in an apparent lousy mood? ( Evelyn), And why isn't Colin playing the role in Anna Karenina instead of SD? Instead of all the bits and pieces he's been doing this summer! Any excuse to be able to do Londinium. (sic) ;-) I will try to be obtimistic Colin was perfect for the part. WHY DOES THIS KEEP HAPPENING! Bethan, please cheer up where is your Firthette stamina? :-D Hopefully, we will know soon enough what his next project will be.

Have cheered up (a bit) and done about 10 minutes work. Shall be working til midnight at this rate. I'm not all that sure that "Anna Karenina"/Vronsky will be a good project. It's Channel 4 (average viewing figures about 2 million) and their last costume-type drama "A dance to the Music of time" flopped...I watched a couple of episodes and frankly, couldn't have cared less about what happened to the characters. Channnel 4 also did "Melissa" with JE, which ,I think, suffered from the same kind of artificiality. Also, AK is de-press-ing, Vronsky is a cad (actually I think Karenin (cuckolded husband) is a etter role), and we all know what happens in the end - she chucks herself infront of a train and gets squished. I like Mark Darcy (has warmth and wit) and Flashman, a cad, but warm hearted (sometimes), funny (is Vronsky funny?), sexy, and stays in love with his wife. If CF takes on these two roles, well, I'll forever hold my peace...if not, 'ware whinging!

Was getting as down in the dumps as Bethan, while reading about all the holiday specials on BBC and others, with Kate Winslet, HB-C, Rupert Graves, Charles Dance, Dawn French, et al...but finally a mention of Colin (no pic) in TOTS: Colin Firth and Pam Ferris join forces for a dramatisation of Henry James' The Turn Of The Screw, while Flint Street Nativity, by Tim Firth, stars Jane Horrocks, Neil Morrissey and Dervla Kirwan - who can also be seen in The Greatest Store In The World on the BBC. http://news2.thls.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/newsid%5F533000/533341.stm

Political incorrectness? I would call it political activism instead (as Bethan references Corin Redgrave). Surely a trip to Sainsbury's for a pic with a toilet brush (OK, the chain-wrapped gig in front of Parliament was a bit more active) wouldn't be considered incorrect, would it? I would think it takes alot more (e.g., insulting the handicapped) to be incorrect enough to lose an acting award. I'm with Evelyn--he's got stiff competition, that's all. As for his future projects--even if he doesn't get the juiciest parts, at least he's not (thus far, Londinium pending) been involved in any real dogs. I have fond memories *cue sarcasm* of Rafie boy cavorting around with giant bears in 'The Avengers.' What was he thinking?

New SLOW review. Not good but I loved the "Chateau Firth"!! ;-D http://www.spring.net/~KarenR/mdbro/slow2.html And you're quite right, Eileen, this is political activism and not incorrectness. I think he suffers from "pretty boy" or "heart-throb" syndrome to the critics (who were the only ones to vote on this award).

(Eileen) I have fond memories *cue sarcasm* of Rafie boy cavorting around with giant bears in 'The Avengers.' What was he thinking? LOL! *snicker*

(Bethan)...radio programme, and their critic praised the cast of 3DOR, and then said that the "marvellous" EMcG was a cert for an Olivier nomination!) (The sound you hear is me throwing-up!) ~~~~~~ ...this is political activism and not incorrectness. In UK this might be viewed as same. (Bethan)Channnel 4 also did "Melissa" with JE, which ,I think, suffered from the same kind of artificiality. Baaaaad screenplay by Alan Bleasdale, bad dialogue, costumes ...a cheap-o production.Five episodes...Jennifer got killed in #4 and I never went on to #5. (Bethan)This will really get audiences rushing to the West End...and why do they have to do this when CF is performing in a new play (for no financial gain)for the rest of the year, poor guy. Not to worry....I called Donmar yesterday to inquire about tickets for a friend.Only a few singles left for weekend nights...they are virtually sold out. As for Alan Rickman whining about bad reviews in Anthony& Cleopatra a year ago...he deserved them. I was in London at the time and considered going...had breakfast with folks who had seen it the night before and said the guy stood around like a potted palm. CF excepted...but some of these celebrities think that all they have to do is show up on stage and the critics are going to rave...not true.Antigone just folded with Tara Fitzgerald because it was a poor performance.

I think I meant "political activism"! BTW, incase I wasn't clear, I didn't intend to imply that CF's political "activities" have any bearing on awards, or to detract from Stephen Dillanes's achievement. Also, re. the ES awards, I just feel very annoyed at the way the news was presented, as though this year was an "annus horribilis" for London drama. It does an injustice to all the many good actors currently at work in the West End. The Film Review review...I think that was the one (1 star)that Ann caught a glimpse of. I've never seen Film Review on the newstands. Ouch, though. The "uniformly excellent acting by the Nigerian cast"(presumably let down by the Brits!!) Is the comment on CF justified? CF often gets mixed reviews...I prefer to judge for myself. I've a meeting in London next week, and am hoping to sneak off to see SLOW, just incase it doesn't reach the provinces, despite all indications to the contrary! The Xmas TV fare is very weak...CF's 10 minutes may be a standout. BTW thefilm "Revengers Tragedy" with H B-C, Rupert Graves etc has been sitting onthe shelf for yonks, longer than SLOW, no distributor. Part funded by the BBC. If (as Evelyn mentiones) SLOW is also part funded by the BBC, we should see it on TV, maybe next year. Being positive!!! How do people work from home? How do people work at home?

I think I meant "political activism"! BTW, incase I wasn't clear, I didn't intend to imply that CF's political "activities" have any bearing on awards You didn't, Bethan; the point was brought up earlier. Do the ES awards carry very much weight? Are they what the Golden Globes have become to the Oscars?

Do the ES awards carry very much weight? Are they what the Golden Globes have become to the Oscars? I should have thought no and no. ES is a London only paper. The Oliviers are more prestigious. Well, from tonight's ES - how the judges arrived at their decisions! Best Actor This was one ot two really hard fought categories which went into a second round. Nicholas de Jongh declared it the best list of Best Actors this decade "Quite astonishing performances and not by the usual collection of actors either". ....... Several judges praised CF's understated performance in 3DOR. Susannah Clapp [of the Observer] thought his change form "very neurotic to a milldly ruffled person" exquisitely done. De Jongh agreed: "He shares with Stephen Dillane an ability to convey nuances of deep feeling without putting them on the surface". But the final battle was fought between Michael Sheen, Stephen Dillane and Henry Goodman..... Best Actress No mention of JE or EMcG!!

Cymbeline: Nobody ever talks about MOTM--is it any good? What a question: It's the best! Some find it a bit depressing, but I think this tv movie, the whole cast, script, use of music, light, landscape, everything is just brilliant, and I would also say so if it hadn't Colin in it. Is it available on video? No. But it was on US tv at least two times, as far as I know. Where does it rank amongst his other works? Very very high, IMO - one of the 3 best. Which the other two are varies depending on my mood, but MOTM is always among them. ;-) If you want to see some pics and reviews, here's is our presently unconnected archive: http://www.colinfirth.com/html/arch-mo.htm

Best Actress No mention of JE or EMcG!! Oh s***. I wouldn't line my garbage pail with the ES!So there! ~~~~~~ About CF:DeJongh agreed: "He shares with Stephen Dillane an ability to convey nuances of deep feeling without putting them on the surface". See, I told you....same understated acting style....but because Henry in TRT is a better part, it showed SD's acting skill in a better light. evelyn, feeling v. smug....

Cutting to the chase: But the final battle was fought between Michael Sheen, Stephen Dillane and Henry Goodman.... So Colin came in fourth!! This is a greater slap than I had imagined. Better not to have known the "behind the scenes". *am now v.mad, as opposed to just plain mad*

Karen, they mentioned four other actors who did not get to the final reckoning, so Colin could have been 8th!!! Others included Simon Russell Beale (whom I think is terrific), P O'T and Charles Dance (were his reviews that good? Answer - no!)

Actually Karen, Colin's in very auspicious company....I'm glad his name has been singled out for mention, and I think he'll be flattered by the company he's keeping (Charles Dance didn't get good reviews though) Also, Simon Russell Beale Michael Sheen and Henry Goodman are actor's actors...they are never going to be heart-throb movie stars! The fact that CF can move between these two worlds is commendable! Interesting that Susannah Clapp of theobserver supported him...I remember her review...I think she called him "amazing"I wonder if it's a male/female thing.

Hi, I just thought I would compare the winners of last year's Theatre Awards to see how like-minded the Awards are and dthey do seem pretty uniform:- ES Theatre Awards 1998 Best Play Copen hagen Best Actor Kevin Spacey Best Actress Sinead Cusack and interestingly there was no Award for Best Comedy in 1998 Critics' Circle Theatre Awards Best Play Copenhagen Best Actor Kevin Spacey Best Actress Sinead Cusack Oliviers Best Play The Weir Best Actor Kevin Spacey Best Actress Aileen Atkins The state of Theatre is a bit worrying the following plays have all posted early closing notices, Antigone, Quartet, 2Pianos 4 Hands and today A Saint She Aint. So I am pleased that the three producations that CF & JE have been invloved in have all been huge successes and have been extended. At least Jennifer can take comfort from the fact that she was connected to two of the Award Winners, -m Trevor Nunn and SD. There is a review for SLOW in the TV Times not very good again, but who cares I loved it and I am glad Bethan that you may be able to see it soon and I look forward to hearing what you think of it. Also I have to say that I think it is a little dishonest of ITV to promote TTOTS by featuring CF so prominently because any CF fans who are no in the know and should happen to miss the first 120 mins will be furious. Finally Allison just out of interest, but does it mention in the paper the names of the actress considered for the Best Actress Award and if so who were they.

120mins should of course, read 10mins

(Bethan) Simon Russell Beale Michael Sheen and Henry Goodman are actor's actors...they are never going to be heart-throb movie stars! The fact that CF can move between these two worlds is commendable! I am sorry to disagree with you Bethan. But I just saw Henry Goodman and Simon Russell Beale in Summerfolk at the National two weeks ago. Now, both of them might have a more solid theatrical background than Colin (read: older). But Goodman played Shalinov, the writer, and Russell Beale played a doctor...neither part can compare to the dual role that Colin undertook in 3 DOR.He might be in auspicious company...but his portrayal was far superior to the other two. I don't see that as an accolade. And to put Charles Dance before Colin's role which consistently received superb reviews is a travesty. IMO the ES awards have all the validity of the celebrities 1000 .com website poll!!!

Do not panic! I have just been watching the awards on television. they are still going on and I am recording it but it was fairly boring! Evelyn - JE was there! I wonder if she knew she was not going to get a mention? There is a quick shot of her arriving. Colin would have known that he had not won because the recording of Stephen Dillane was apparently done a while ago, I got the impression, and he was filmed at the Donmar! They announce the shortlist for each category and Colin WAS in that group. He was mentioned first with a big screen saying 3DOR bhind the announcer's head. He said that there had been an large number of wonderful male performances and described Colin's performance as "amazing". At least that is what I remember. I would have to go back and look. Ann, I shall have to go back to the tape to see who they mentioned. In the ES article they mention Emma Fielding, Sheila Gish and Hayley Carmichael. Tho' I am not sure that any of these were mentioned in the programme. I got the feeling that they felt the male performances were more deserving of mention. Will go back and watch!

Sorry, for my mini-rage....told you my day would come. It is Here! ~~~~ Bottom Line: Colin's acting talent is not taken seriously despite the excellent reviews.He is still viewed as a heart-throb which is incongruous with a good actor, it seems.

Oh Evelyn, I think I disagree! He was a finalist in a strong field. As you said if he had been in a stronger play.... I liked 3DOR but it is a small scale work, and so cannot be compared with many others. BTW Ann, the female finalists mentioned were Emma Fielding and Hayley Carmaichael.

(Evelyn) Oh s***. I wouldn't line my garbage pail with the ES! So there! Hee hee! (Allison) Several judges praised CF's understated performance in 3DOR. Besides Clapp, DeJongh and others, Benedict Nightingale was also a judge. If I recall correctly, in March he praised Colin but called the play a 'diaper drama'. Last Sunday Benedict wrote a London theater update for the NY Times. 3DOR was mentioned, as it should be--then he gushed about EMcG. It must be the slip, Karen. I understand the Oliviers are analogous to American Tony Awards, Allison. But do these ES awards get the whole buzz phenomenon going? Thanks for the look back at last year's awards, Ann. (Bethan)...they are never going to be heart-throb movie stars! The fact that CF can move between these two worlds is commendable! Good point!

Allison, were there only two nominees for the Best Actress and who is Hayley Carmaichel and what was she in. I would have bet my last dollar that JE would at least have been nominated after the superb reviews she received, they were out of this world - best performance of her career, luminous etc. BTW I am glad you watched it Allison as my dear sister has just telephoned to say for some reason their video did not work!!!

Renate - Thanks for your answers re MOTM. Was it a TV production in Britain and therefore never released as video? Arghhh! I wish there were some channel that would let Americans see all the good stuff from the UK. I shall go look at the archived material.

two other nominees - Allison

Cymbeline, I was channel surfing on a Saturday night more than a year ago when I came across a close up of CF's face. I usually check the TV Now site for CF programming and couldn't believe I missed a prime time listing. Well, it was a local (Long Island) PBS station and the show was listed in the TV Guide only as 'Ruth Rendell Mysteries'--not which one. So I managed the miss all but the last 15 min. :-( So I suggest you check with the PBS station(s) in your area.

I love this!! A blow-by-blow account of the ES Drama awards as it is being televised! Thank you, Allison. (Bethan) The fact that CF can move between these two worlds is commendable! Not enough. ;-p If these bozo (err, theatre critics) really want to send a message about the state of affairs of West End theatre, then they better put some muscle into the boxoffice. As you said earlier, how many fine actors have said they wouldn't set one toe on the boards because of the reception they get from the critics? Colin is more than a "fine actor." If they had named him Best Actor, that might signal a more receptive attitude toward screen actors appearing live on stage. Whe her those solid (read, old) actors were more deserving and represent enviable company is not the issue. Bringing bodies into the theater through name recognition is the thing. If you don't get people like Colin to reinvigorate the legit stage, all you will see is Saturday Night Fever and the Lion King. *rant over* Little blurb in Variety about the awards, which was mainly about the Lion King, but said Dillane's award might help the Broadway boxoffice when TRT come to NY. OK, have now purchased my boxes of Jello and the pancetta. (not for same dish) Must start cooking for Thanksgiving.

On Master of the Moor, you're right, Eileen. That Long Island PBS station has broadcast it several times (evidently it is the anchor station for that series); it has also turned up in Providence, RI; and Seattle (I think) - all within the past year. Have cancelled my membership to local PBS station and am withholding my enormous $40 contribution until they broadcast the show! ;-D

(Karen) Bringing bodies into the theater through name recognition is the thing And rewarding film actors for stage work will increase the quality of the films made. I firmly believe that willingness to continue stage work separates the thespian sheep from the goats--the ones who only make movies turn out to be only movie stars not actors (terrible generalization I know; am prepared for barrage of arguments to the contrary.) Anyhow we all know that CF himself made Playmaker for the money and repudiated it practically before it was done. Why can't he make a decent living on the stag ? Slap yourself, Cymbeline, if he did that most of us would never see him at all. have now purchased my boxes of Jello and the pancetta. (not for same dish). Pancetta aspicata--magnifico! Per favore, la ricetta per tutti di noi! Happy Thanksgiving to all on the west side of the pond.

(Allison)Oh Evelyn, I think I disagree! He was a finalist in a strong field. Thank you Allison for giving us "instant replay" of the awards.It was v. exciting. I guess, I'm just such a competitive person... either I win ... or I I don't find consolation in losing with Martin Sheen or Henry Goodman. Anthony Hopkins, OK. However, to their credit SD was always a strong second with us. Rant Over.Thanks again:-)

Should read: I guess, I'm just such a competitive person... either I win ... or I lose.

Arami), That *could* account for some of Colin's apparent lousy humour last week or the week before. Is there something we should know? How do you know he was in an apparent lousy mood? Didn't he go out the back door and avoided the foyer completely on the second Saturday evening? And on another night around the same time he appeared unusually agitated and not paying much attention to what was said to him. I don't know why, I'm only guessing here. I think he suffers from "pretty boy" or "heart-throb" syndrome That's part of the problem, yes. Stephen Dillanes's achievement That reminds me - some years ago SD toured the country with an acclaimed London production of Hamlet in which he played the pretended madness scene completely and without blinking an eyelid - in his birthday suit. That's one of his claims to fame... Don't misunderstand me: it was a good production, but the most powerful memories I have concern the size of his nuances which were all on the surface, plus quite a deep feeling... Call that art? (No, I'm not trying to prove anything - it's just an aside to che r you up!) JE was there! I wonder if she knew she was not going to get a mention? I doubt if she cared. She probably likes such galas, contrary to Colin. Now, that could be one of the reasons why they didn't stay together. Colin's acting talent is not taken seriously despite the excellent reviews.He is still viewed as a heart-throb which is incongruous with a good actor, it seems. Evelyn, it sounds like you were blaming his fans... So should we all stop admiring him now and remove ourselves from the path of his career? ;-) (Or try to look at it positively: he is very often mentioned with the best of them. And for us he's always the tops, regardless of what anyone can say...:-))

Here's another longish review of the "Edge of Reason" on the This Is London site - not too favourable. Brief Colin mention. http://www.thisislondon.com/dynamic/lifestyle/top_review.html?in_review_id=230176&in_review_text_id=179070

(Arami)SD toured the country with an acclaimed London production of Hamlet in which he played the pretended madness scene completely and without blinking an eyelid - in his birthday suit. Hmmm.... I wonder if we could convince ODB to do this...

Thank you all for the information. Ann if we go by last year, it looks like SD will take the Olivier. I believed that Colin did 3DOR for a chance to win an Olivier. And, if as you said Allison SD taped his acceptance speech from the Donmar, Colin might have been a witness to it. And hence the alledge bad mood that Arami suggested. SD was marvelous in TRT, I knew he would be hard competition for Colin once the awards came round. I wonder how soon Colin will jump at another play after this let down?

(Allison)JE was there! I wonder if she knew she was not going to get a mention? (Arami)I doubt if she cared. She probably likes such galas, contrary to Colin. Now, that could be one of the reasons why they didn't stay together. Nothing could be further from the truth. She is v. retiring and shy..a v. private person. As is her mother RH....Actually she and CF are v. much alike.I have always said that had they stayed together, they would have gone to live in a cave in the Hebrides. ~~~~ Colin's acting talent is not taken seriously despite the excellent reviews.He is still viewed as a heart-throb which is incongruous with a good actor, it seems. (Arami)Evelyn, it sounds like you were blaming his fans... So should we all stop admiring him now and remove ourselves from the path of his career? ;-) Not at all. I was referring to the theatre critics who view him just as a heart-throb.However, now that you mention it...I wonder if all the hoop-la in the new Bridget Jones book will enhance his serious acting reputation.I dunno.

sorry for the italics. I just closed them

(Karen) Whether those solid (read, old) actors were more deserving and represent enviable company is not the issue. Bringing bodies into the theater through name recognition is the thing. I beg to disagree. You seem to be talking about popularity, but the issue is, who is considered the tops at a given time. The real problem is, who is bestowing awards and why; how we (they) measure excellence. Ultimately these affairs are always a compromise. Furthermore, compared to Colin's previous theatre appearance, this is bloody marvellous: he was acknowledged as an acceptable Chatsky, but the production wasn't a success. That was in 1993: and now he suddenly pops up on stage six years later for a quick stint - and you expect an award? Just try and forget for a second that you're a fan and imagine you are one of those hard working actors for whom theatre is the main source and means: for them, and for the critics, Colin is probably just a passing visitor an usurper who admittedly gives an exceptional performance, but is not wholly or sufficiently enough of theatre. In that light, naming him as one of the top stage performances of the year is a great accolade. (Evelyn) Nothing could be further from the truth I still say (as someone who spent half of my life among the acting fraternity) that there is an awful lot we, the fans and audiences, do not really know.

Just wasted 30 minutes of my life watching Jonathon Ross Film Night (never, never again)...previewed the new Bond, a Johnny Depp movie and a re-release of Scrooge,. Then we had an interminable interview with Somebody Bunker, who played Mr Blue in Reservoir Dogs . No SLOW, no Colin. Didn't surprise me, but with "reviewers" like this, what chance has he got? Ann, I wouldn't bother about the SLOW reviews. I'm resigned to them not being very good. But to put things in perpective, have you seen the reviews for virtually every single British film release over the last few months. Awful. And the ones that are good (like "Ratcatcher") sound so depressing, I wouldn't cross the road to see them!! I've said this before, reviewers are an unnecessary barrier and reflect their personal preference. I prefer to make up my own mind! Helen Fielding's new book has had indiff rent reviews...but I'm really enjoying it! And I'm faily sure that if the BBC co-funded SLOW, it will get a TV screening (and television, in the UK certainly, is Colin's natural audience.) Shall scutinise the credits. Just caught a pre-view of the "new P&P".."Wives and Daughters"...and one thing I can tell you, there's no Darcy and no Lizzie. Justine Waddell (in everything these days is rather insipid, and the male lead is Iain Glenn, who has very cold eyes and looks silly in a stove hat, plus there's another actor, pretty-ish and about 5'2". It will probably be very well acted, but i have to say that my immediate reaction was just "oh, yet another costume drama". P&P was unique! Reminds me, didn't Iain Glenn strip to the buff with Nicole Kidman in the Donmar. Given that the Donmar appears so intimate, I almost wonder how they could. There's a lot to be said for fully clothed "allure"!

(Arami)I still say (as someone who spent half of my life among the acting fraternity) that there is an awful lot we, the fans and audiences, do not really know. That not only holds true for the" acting fraternity"but for any couple who splits up.

Yes, of course, but I was thinking about more things than one. Like what sort of a person an actor really is in private, away from the public scrutiny.

SD...played the pretended madness scene...in his birthday suit...but the most powerful memories I have concern the size of his nuances which were all on the surface... Interesting that you should notice his nuances (never heard them called that before). How big were they? ;-D You seem to be talking about popularity Not at all. I'm talking cold hard economics. If these critics want to make a statement about the future of theatre in Britain beyond the spectacle of musicals and "events," then there has to be a reason for people to go to them. Those critics rewarded "tried and true" plays. Colin's play represented something new; each of the other shortlisted best actor noms was in a play that had been done before. Is that the message? You must perform in the old warhorse productions? No, they should be rewarding ew works and exceptional performances. How many times can they give an award to somebody for Hamlet? The argument that Colin should feel honored to be in that company sounds like the tripe most AA nominees spout about "how it's really the honor of being nominated" when interviewed. Do you really think any of them actually believes that? They want to win. Just being in that august company only goes so far. Besides, if you think giving an award to either of those two other guys would sell one more ticket... I don't think so. *maybe my mind is fogged by the fact that we are in November sweeps here and all the stops are being pulled out by every network* ;-D

Moon: And, if as you said Allison SD taped his acceptance speech from the Donmar, Colin might have been a witness to it. In fact, SD said that he wanted to accept the award "on behalf of everybody here at the Donmar." Since he's now in 3DOR there, was this a potential tacit admission that CF deserved to share (or win) the award? Only joking (probably)...

Just sighted! SLOW posters on the Tube! Colin in black suit and trainers, Nia Long in sunhat, smiling. Quotes from Harpers and Queen and somewhere else which I could not read (I was on the train at the time, trying to read posters which were on the platform!)

(Mark), In fact, SD said that he wanted to accept the award "on behalf of everybody here at the Donmar." Since he's now in 3DOR there, was this a potential tacit admission that CF deserved to share (or win) the award? Poor Colin! Talk about keeping a stiff upper lip! SD behaved like a gentleman under the circumstances, but, let us not forget that it is thanks to TRT at the Donmar that he will be starring on Broadway.

Allison, the SLOW poster is shown at the top of my page (and rolled up in my home): http://www.spring.net/~KarenR/mdbro/slow1.html Also, the pic of Colin's feet (among the tomatoes) is on the main Drool page. The other quote is from Women's Journal.

Evelyn said: Bottom Line: Colin's acting talent is not taken seriously despite the excellent reviews.He is still viewed as a heart-throb which is incongruous with a good actor, it seems. I disagree heartily. If this were true, he would never have been nominated. He is a film and television actor, not a stage actor with anything like the chops of the competitors with whom he was placed. He must be over the moon to be in such company. His performance was terrific and clearly the critics felt that he was in the same class as Goodman, Dillane, and Sheen. You should be pleased for him.

I'm going make a very unpopular comment about SLOW, so if you can't stand to hear anything remotely negative, I suggest you move on to the next posting. I saw SLOW on 12 Nov at the LFF. It was entertaining and CF looks absolutely gorgeous throughout. However, it was an utterly irrelevant piece of film-making and there is not a doubt in my mind why they had trouble finding a distributor. Now don't get the idea that I necessarily agree with this. It was a fantasy, but the criticism will come nevertheless. I do not expect to see it in the States anytime soon as it is wildly un-PC. Rich white guy gets the black girl away from her community, her family, and her fiancee. Rich white guy saves the poor little black boy and his beautiful mom???? Oh dear. I shudder to think what the critics will make of it in the US. In fact, I would not expect it to be well received in the UK either. But he looks really great and I enjoyed it.

(Karen) On Master of the Moor... That Long Island PBS station has broadcast it several times (evidently it is the anchor station for that series) No kidding?! I thought that station was only good for 'This Old House.' Most evenings they broadcast Lawrence Welk (and-a one, and-a two). Waddaya know. Cymbeline, it's WLIW in Garden City, NY. (Evelyn) Colin's acting talent is not taken seriously despite the excellent reviews. He is still viewed as a heart-throb which is incongruous with a good actor, it seems. I completely agree--at least this is what happened after P&P. I'm not sure how much this still applies, though, and what effect it had on the ES Awards. Heck, all awards are sooo subjective. Case in point: Roberto Begnini. apparent lousy mood This is someone else's subjective assessment. We weren't there. (SBR)I wonder if we could convince ODB to do this... Lordy, no. Too much information! Too much information! Some things are better left to one's imagination. (Bethan) Reminds me, didn't Iain Glenn strip to the buff with Nicole Kidman in the Donmar Right you are. He continued his naked cartwheels on Broadway. (Karen) (and rolled up in my home): Ohno! You've rolled it up? You haven't got it hanging in your window anymore? Or at least inside your closet? Take your hands off that Jello and go hang him up! Go to, go to! :-D Am expecting local relative invasion tomorrow, so must go childproof my house. BTW, the forecast is for rain, so tune in for the Macy's Thanksgiving parade. Watching those float-bourne stars lip sync badly is *always* more interesting when it rains. Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate!

Chris, don't be concerned about expressing negative comments about SLOW. We've known for sometime that the film's overall quality was the bottom-line reason that it hadn't found a distributor. Don't know if you've checked out Topic 121. We've been using it as a Spoiler topic for SLOW as well. Eileen, yes. WLIW is the one. I spoke to the programming people at the little PBS station in NW Indiana (people actually answer the phones there as opposed to the flagship station here) and they told me all about the Rendell series. Now if they would ever broadcast that older one as they do the current ones!! argh!! You've rolled it up? well, yes, but that's temporary (she says well-intentionedly) until I get it framed. It is pretty large you know. However, I have lots and lots of 4x6s of it lying around from the rolls of film shot trying to get a picture without a glare. Surprised the neighbors didn't call out the police as I went up and down the alley, masking tape in hand, putting it up on everyone's garage doors. Maybe I should've had a dog with me. :) OK, time to chop onions. (Have blister on finger from peeling and dicing 12 c. of butternut squash.)

Here's the picture Lizza sent me from the Guardian. You can really tell on this one that the chain links are made of paper. The messages are pledges of suppport. On Colin's left is Labour MP Neil Gerrard and on the right Lib-Dem MP Evan Harris.

What??

Well, this larger view certainly accounts for the look on his face. See how happy the chap to his right appears? :-P

He must be over the moon to be in such company. His performance was terrific and clearly the critics felt that he was in the same class as Goodman, Dillane,and Sheen. You should be pleased for him Like I said, I am pleased, of course , that his performance was outstanding.Why else would I be going back to see it. But I don't think being in that crowd is anything to rejoice about...I bet they couldn't sell-out the Donmar to an international audience with the three of them in one play. Anyway...for future discussions: Critics Choice Awards to be announced early February The Olivier Awards expected to be announced mid-February. Nominations to be announced mid January.

Some interesting coverage of TTOTS in the press. "ITV turns the screw on BBC". "ITV reaches for the stars in ratings war". Quote.." raditionally ITV has eschewed Xmas specilas because advertisers stop buying airtime when Xmas shopping ends. This year, however, ITV execs have been promised a bonus payment if they can achieve a 39 percent share of peak-time audiences (at Xmas). Symptomatic of the network's efforts over Xmas, is a screening of the Henry Jsmes classic "TTOTS", starring Colin Firth (only name mentioned). "Ordinarily, this would have been screened when the BBC was not offering the steep opposition they do at Xmas" said one senior ITV exec. who did not want to be named, "but this year there is this great effort to push the 39 percent share figure right through the wire". So, they're depending on Colin's 10 minutes to boost their figure, and win them their bonus! Very flattering to CF, though begs the question...why don't they ask him what he'd like to do and tailor a major project to his talents!! On the ES awards...I'm very pleased to see him singled out for praise. Interestingly, if you look ar the plays in which the other nominees starred - TRT obviously, Michael Sheen in a revival of John Osborne's "Look back in anger" and Henry Goodman in "Merchant of Venice"...they are all very well-known plays. Critics go to see them knowing the actual plays are exceptional and focus on the interpretation. Some critics were not very enthusiastic about 3DOR the play....next time perhaps CF should go for a pr ven vehicle...Chekhov,Ibsen...so that there's no distracting conjecture as to whether the play is good, or not. SLOW...well I'm not expecting good reviews - 2 stars at best (although this is par for the course for Brit films) But one point I must make, because it's white-black, does it have to be "real", issue-driven, politically correct (black girl marries black man, stays in community?) Why can't it be a romantic fantasy, a whimsical, escapist entertainment? Why can't an attractive white man disappear into the sunset with a beautiful black girl? We lived in Nigeria for several years.....most of the couples we knew were good-looking, well-educated, cosmopolitan and from different racial/cultural backgrounds. People do meet, fall in love, lead successful problem-free lives ....why can't films reflect this more rose-tinted view, rather than focus on so-called "social problems"? Glad that the posters are up in the Tube...one of the best ways to advertise.

(Bethan)CF should go for a proven vehicle...Chekhov,Ibsen.. ZZZZZZZZZZZ (Bethan)why can't films reflect this more rose-tinted view, rather than focus on so-called "social problems"? SLOW does.....there is never a mention of the interracial marriage.Matthew does ride off into the sunset....or rather walks off through the tomatoes... with Nimi and Sammy. See, Bethan, you got your wish.

I bet they couldn't sell-out the Donmar to an international audience with the three of them in one play. Well, they have sold out each of their respective plays in large mainstream theatres to the British audiences and have no qualms. (Bethan)CF should go for a proven vehicle...Chekhov,Ibsen.. (Evelyn) ZZZZZZZZZZZ A stamp of a true connoisseur.

(Bethan)CF should go for a proven vehicle...Chekhov,Ibsen.. (Evelyn) ZZZZZZZZZZZ (Arami)A stamp of a true connoisseur. ~~~~~~ LOL.....I'm sorry, but those two guys put me to sleep. Now, Tennesee Williams...let's go for something sexy... :-)

Oh, please, no American voice for this wonderful Brit in the next stage production.

There's a good review for SLOW in Thursday's Times! Of CF, the critic writes: "It's a disarming performance: big on charm and bottled anguish." Of the film, "Rambling and slight it may be. But it's also surprisingly endearing."

Thanks Mari. Here's the review by James Christopher: In the whimsical romance, The Secret Laughter of Women, Colin Firth's science fiction writer falls for the exotic charms of a Nigerian single mother (Nia Long). For all the obvious cultural baggage, it's the clash of personalities that distinguishes O. O. Sagay's script. Firth is filthy rich, very English, and very persistent. Long is proud, prickly, and for the purposes of tinkering around Firth's sumptuous villa, a budding garden designer. Her irritatingly sweet son, Sammy (Fissy Roberts), is the mutual point of contact. Sammy is a sci-fi nut who adores Firth and his cartoon junk. But Long's African fianc�, Ariyon Bakare, a chippy clergyman, is having none of it. "The man is a degenerate," screams the Reverend fire and brimstone to the resident Nigerians who hang out with Long's sanctimonious mother. Bakare has a point. Firth is selfish, bored, unhappily married, and scathingly blunt. "Life isn't about enough," he instructs Long. "It's about more." Only the faintest shrug of the shoulders, and a panicky twitch of the eyes betray the fact that he might be wrong. It's a disarming performance: big on charm and bottled anguish. Long gamely shuffles between attraction nd dismay while her gossipy friends threaten to turn her flat into an African version of Steel Magnolias. The comic chill thaws, and a wobbly romance sparks. Shot with a light, glossy touch, its director, Peter Schwabach, neatly outlines the risks in this tussle of heart over tribal loyalties (Firth's as much as Long's). That they do so without too much sticky manipulation is something of a miracle. Rambling and slight it may be. But it's also surprisingly endearing.

Allison: SLOW will be playing at ABC Panton Street The caption says: Wistful teaser with Colin Firth

Oh goody! If James Christopher of the Times likes it, it's got a chance. He hasn't liked much recently.

But from what I can make out, apart from Panton Street, it is only showing in ....Pekham!. I am sure Dell Boy will be rushing to see it! (Brit in-joke).

Sorry, that should be peckham BTW I wonder what C Tookey will say about it? Remember how we all got in a huff when he included SLOW in his list of Arts supported films which were flops? I am sad to say that I gaave up the Daily Mail a while age - just couldn't stand it any longer. Will try and buy a copy.

Sorry, that should be peckham BTW I wonder what C Tookey will say about it? Remember how we all got in a huff when he included SLOW in his list of Arts supported films which were flops? I am sad to say that I gaave up the Daily Mail a while ago - just couldn't stand it any longer. Will try and buy a copy.

Nice review in The Evening Standard by Alexander Walker for SLOW, I believe he was one of the few critics who hated FP.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. I can't wait to dive into the Turkey tonight. I am so disappointed that ODB was overlooked again. Best actor awards should be awarded for a performance, not fro the play, IMO. Although Colin wants the Olivier, no doubt, I am sure he tokk on the project for the challenge and his own satisfaction. Thanks for the protest picture of Colin and the two MPs. Perhaps he is going to make a move into politics. Nah, Colin won't play the game in his acting career, so he'd never make it in an even dirtier milieu. On the other hand, I'd vote for him and we would certainly get to see more of him. And if Ronald Reagan, a really mediocre,uncharismatic actor, could succeed as Pres...? Colin might end up the most popular PM in British history...and the best-looking one, too. Not to mention, people would be willing o pay big money to hear his political speeches. JE may be shy, but perhaps she is serious about her career and accepts the importance of getting out there and being noticed. I am happy to see the SLOW is getting some positive press. Could someone please tell me where the ABC Panton Street is located? I would like to see SLOW when I arrive in London next Saturday, Dec 4.

Lynda, ABC Panton Street is near Picadilly Circus, right in the centre of town, so you should be able to get there easily if it is still showing. I msut say they are doing a good job of advertising this film. It was not reviewed in the main part of ES but it was in the Hot Tickets magazine which comes out each Thursday with the paper. Also there was an small interview with Nia Long with picture. Also prominemt ads in the main paper and in hot tickets. It just makes one wonder all the more about Miramax and MLSF!

Lynda, ABC Panton Street is near Picadilly Circus, right in the centre of town, so you should be able to get there easily if it is still showing. I msut say they are doing a good job of advertising this film. It was not reviewed in the main part of ES but it was in the Hot Tickets magazine which comes out each Thursday with the paper. Also there was an small interview with Nia Long with picture. Also prominent ads in the main paper and in hot tickets. It just makes one wonder all the more about Miramax and MLSF!

Really sorry about double posts and typos. Blame it on AOL. Am on free trial so please 'scuse.

Here's all that Alexander Walker wrote in the Evening Standard: A small-scale but warm-hearted cross-cultural romance set among the Nigerian colony of expats in the south of France. Peter Schwabach's story centres on the unmarried mother of a lively eight-year-old boy. Her community feels she should get hitched for decency's sake and select the personable new vicar. Her son, though, has other ideas. Setting, culture and unusual concern with respectability give the film its edge. ******** Not much, but we'll take it. ;-D Thanks Ann for finding it. The "Nia Loves Laughter's Challenge" article is made up 100% of quotes from the production notes. http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/html/hottx/film/top_direct.html

Mari, please answer my email concerning the photos....did you receive it?

(Arami)Oh, please, no American voice for this wonderful Brit in the next stage production. Oh....by his own admission....I thought he was Dutch, Italian and Portuguese:-D ~~~~~ Thanks everybody for posting SLOW media reviews. Now we look forward to the personal reviews of our British friends on #121. Allison, Bethan, Arami...let 'er rip!

The SLOW ad also features in today's Times. Good for Optimum Releasing. And yes, Allison, it really shows up Miramax/BVI!! I read the other reviews..I think SLOW comes off best. "Astronaut's Wife" ..It's hard to care - the abiding atmosphere is one of tedium and unreality. "Dreaming of Joseph Lees"..(by the director of "Relative Values")...dour Somerset potboiler, preposterous script (Praise for the direction though) Three others..."boggy", so so, and ,of course, the Bond movie, which will sweep the boards. The review wasn't exstatic though. As to Alexander Walker of the Evening Standard...I think that's almost reassuring (though no mention of CF). At least he doesn't hate it! He slaughtered FP. I remember seeing him on some late night review programme, and he mentioned FP, "starring God's Gift to women". Switched off because I didn't like his tone. But if he doesn't say anything bad, that's good! Hope some of the rest of the reviews will be okay, but I'll bet The Guardian won't like it! Isn't Panton Stree within walking distance of the Donmar? BTW am definitely going to London (work-related) next week.

Bethan you could take in 3DOR and SLOW - how long will the work-related bit take?!!hee hee

I have just got our equivalent of Timeout and absolutely NOTHING about SLOW!! I was hoping to spend the weekend seeing it (at least once) None of our independent arts complexes have it. Anyone else outside London had any luck? Happy Thanksgiving--good turkey diving!

I noticed in the ad in the Times that it just says "Released in cinemas..ABC Panton St, and Peckham Prior(?)" Just the two cinemas. Other ads say "Nationwide release" or "In selected cinemas throughout the country". I remember that when I rang Optimum Releasing, they said that SLOW would be released in London, and then in selected High St ABCs thru' December. (Probably very few prints ...more than two, I hope!) I thought out regional art-house cinema was going to show it (they said they were) but it's not listed in the December brochure. January perhaps? That's one reason, I'm determined to squeeze it in next week somehow. Incase it doesn't make it to the outer regions! No chance of 3DOR I'm afraid, Ann. Not the matinee performance day. And this trip to London is an unexpected bonus ( although it does involve quite a lot of work!) Yes, Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!

Thank you, and it is a little odd to be wishing it right back, since I believe you had your equivalent some time ago (October somthing, was it?)...

Peter Bradshaw's review from the Guardian: This week, I fear, sees a release from the Bernard Matthews Film School: The Secret Laughter of Women, a catastrophic, garbled romantic comedy set in an expatriate Nigerian community in the south of France. Nimi (Nia Long) is supposed to be a beautiful young widow who falls for a handsome, cynical British writer, Matthew (Colin Firth) - scandalising her church community. Matthew is supposed to be a comic book writer idolised by Nimi's son, though there is airy talk of him writing novels and short stories s well. The direction is leaden; the script sounds as if it has been translated from one of those alien languages from Star Wars Episode One and the child actor recites his lines as if he's reading them off an optician's board. Furthermore, Firth's character succumbs to a baffling cardiac episode because he is supposed to have a heart condition - something presumably established in the original screenplay, but lost in the final edit. What a mess. ******* Hmmm am going to have look up that Bernard Matthews crack...

http://www.timeout.com/london/hitlist/film_current.html#lon169542 Review from TimeOut: Single mother and landscape gardener Nimi (Nia Long) likes life among the close-knit Nigerian community of Rue Bonaparte, a small coastal town in southern France, but finds herself subjected to a tussle between the traditional-minded local womenfolk and her fanciful seven-year-old son Sammy (Fissy Roberts): while the former eye up the eligible new preacher (Ariyon Bakare) as a potential husband, Sammy hatches similar ambitions for his new friend Matthew (Colin Firth), a successful English fantasy comic-bo k author who summers from his �open� modern marriage in a nearby villa. He certainly has a very nice garden. You probably know this one - the preacher�s stern and unlovely, but Matthew is emotionally guarded and immature (Nimi�s problem) as well as being an outsider (the rest of the clan�s); it takes the film for him to grow and her to choose. Though not short on good intentions, as a would-be romantic comedy the unguarded naivety of Peter Schwabach�s film doesn�t pay off. On the one hand, the attempts t keep the drama light, sunny and sensitive lapse too often into a sense of rose-tinted whimsy or quixotism; on the other, the film sticks too close to too many genre clich�s and can�t put them over convincingly. It�s more romantic than comic, and more rambling than romantic; and while on the whole the acting is one of the film�s stronger suits, there are times when the performers sound like they�re reading from the page. The direction and OO Sagay�s script provide nice local and cultural colour, but it ne ds more of a twist. (12) (Peter Schwabach, 1997, GB) Nia Long, Colin Firth, Ariyon Bakare, Fissy Roberts. 120 mins. West End: ABC Panton St; Locals.

OK, I've found a trailer of SLOW on the web, but it's only the women talking and "laughing" about men. No Colin. :-(

Hmmm am going to have look up that Bernard Matthews crack... Bernard Matthews is famous for his turkeys!

Yes, I've just found that out. A poultry firm. (strange that the turkey I've had today hasn't put me to sleep...)

Told you the Guardian would hate it! I remember they said that the best part of FP were the flashbacks! Timeout also has an interview with Peter Schwabach. Misan Sagay's comments were all correct. Handmade/Paragon succombed to financial difficulties as SLOW was starting to shoot...Misan funded the first three weeks with her own credit card. Then the Insurance Company (Bank) stepped in, but tried to take over creative control. They scrutinised the screenplay with a magnifying glass to see where they could make budgetary cuts. Then at the editing stage they insisted on commissioning a special edit in which th African community/music was all cut out. Misan and the Arts Council resisted this. Scwabach says a "war of attrition" broke out. (which may account for all the delays). Eventually Misan's view concept of the project prevailed ((focus on African women not CF) and this is the version that is released. Sounds like a difficult time for all, and Colin would have been in the cross-fire, poor guy. Positive news though...Scwabach says that SLOW won the audience appreciation award at the Martha's Vineyard FF (presumably the film they liked most) and has been sold to twelve territories The "Bernard Matthews" crack is a very cruel one. Bernard Matthews used to promote his own turkey products in TV ads and people used to make fun of him because of his leaden delivery. Basically, it means very bad acting. Mind you this was the guy who said (of An Ideal Husband) that the furniture was better than the acting. Also disliked "The Winslow Boy" I can't see how on the one hand critics can heap superlatives on an actor for his stage performance, and then... this!

Bethan, I think the Bernard Matthews reference just means the film's a turkey (not a comment on the acting) although I know that Bernard himself was leaden in the extreme. Hate to admit it, but I agree with two of the specific criticisms (Fissy Roberts' delivery and the unestablished cardiac history). However, I thought the film was a good one in spite of these.

A P.S. It's reviews like Pete Bradshaw's (and there may be more) that make me wish that CF did more TV work, where audiences can judge for themselves (and where, I think, he is more appreciated). Wonder what reviews P&P would have attracted if it had been released as a movie.."the insipid Mr Darcy"? :-) We all have different tastes, and I think film critics wield disproportionate power...they can kill a film stone dead. Apparently in France, French film makers have asked for their movies to be screened before audiences for at least a week before they are reviewed, because so many home grown films don't survive the critics' "first impressions". One question for Ann and Evelyn, would it have been better for CF (as an actor) if MLSF had been released before SLOW (as should have happened). Although I think BVI are going to give MLSF a very low-key release, similar to SLOW's.

Really bad review in the Telegraph (see Electronic Telegraph - reviews Andrew O'Hagen). Sorry! Bad for CF and the film. "CF looks lost in shallow wee movie...four drafts short of being ready, badly made." Nothing good to say for film or acting. Absolute rave for Brosnan/Bond and praise for "Joseph Lees" and the "handsome" Rupert Graves. Oh well...dare I read any more. No!!!! :-)

"Firth is filthy rich, very English, and very persistent. Long is proud, prickly ... Firth is selfish, bored ... and scathingly blunt ... It's a disarming performance: big on charm and bottled anguish." Substitue Ehle for Long in the above excerpts, and you could be talking about our favorite 6-episode JA adaptation. Implications? Who knows? If he doesn't want to continue being viewed as a heart-throb, should he have taken a role like this? Was it actually a different kind of role pared down by the editing slashes people have mentioned? I don't think SLOW has a prayer in the US--too unpc. Critics would be terrified to touch it. And since it isn't set in Nigeria but in France, it can't purport to be giving us a view of life and outlooks in a predominantly black country, so it loses that chance at legitimating the possibility of the Firth-Long relationship. It would have to be as good as SIL to have any hope of overcoming the tendency most people would have of looking at it as a political statement. And CF's character would have to be oor--if he were the gardener and she were the landowner, maybe. But as it is--rich, white, unfaithful, male, frivolous occupation, and he rides roughshod over the family values of the downtrodden, black, tightly knit, female, single parent community struggling in a white country--nevah! An aside--I went to The Best Man to see what Nia Long was like. I thought it was dreadful. There were no sympathetic characters--the men were awful stereotypes, the women longsuffering fools. I thought Nia Long's character was patronizing, thoughtless, and confused. If anyone's seen both TBM and SLOW, I'd be interested in your take on her in the two roles.

I am all atwitter...MLSF is playing in my local (Tallahassee, FL) art house theater. I am going to see him tonight, before he disappears on me. I can't believe it's actually here. He has a date with me tonight!!

(Bethan) Scwabach says that SLOW won the audience appreciation award at the Martha's Vineyard FF (presumably the film they liked most) Strange that the organizer of the event didn't mention that to me when we exchanged a few emails. His answer about how it did was v. lowkey (wish I'd kept it). Said the "audience seemed to like it." If it had won the "audience appreciation award," you'd think he'd mention it. Remember, he was the one who told me that the bank tried to get the film back so it wouldn't be shown at the fest. Here's the entire review from The Telegraph, thanks Bethan. Colin Firth looks lost in this shallow wee movie, set in a Nigerian community in the South of France. Nimi da Silva (Nia Long) is a lovely girl among laughing women, and she has an over-cute, over-acting boy called Sammy. But she wants a man. Will it be the local minister? Will it be Colin Firth? The film is four drafts short of being ready - many of the situations are tossed off and badly made. The whole thing is at times phonily winsome. It is directed by Peter Schwabach and written by OO Sagay. http://www.telegraph.co.uk:80/et?ac=000576481449931&rtmo=pbp4IUse&atmo=YYYYYYYp&pg=/et/99/11/26/bfhag26.html#d

Christopher Tookey review in Daily Mail...could be worse. Gives Bond a rave, rave (5stars), "Joseph Lees" 1 star, "Astronaut's Wife" 1 star....and SLOW 2stars. Verdict: amiable but underpowered romantic drama. Says its a gentle love story set somewhere attractively different, and adds that "the two leads charm" and it's a pleasant way of spending a couple of hours. But I don't like his final comment, which, paraphrased means that the film has absolutely no chance of commercial success. Will post in full, later. On the state of the UK Box office.."Sixth Sense" took �3.27 million (�8000 per screen), "Onegin" (50 screens) took �120,000. It's very tough out there.

(Mark)However, I thought the film was a good one in spite of these. Agree, Mark. (Cymbeline)I don't think SLOW has a prayer in the US--too unpc. Critics would be terrified to touch it We discussed that at least a year ago, Cymbeline...when none of us knew what we were talking about...but having seen the film twice I can honestly say that it is NOT a film about interracial romance...it is about cross-cultural romance..could be Anglo-Italian. But as it is--rich, white,unfaithful, male, frivolous occupation, and he rides roughshod over the family values of the downtrodden, black, tightly knit, female, single parent community struggling in a whitecountry--nevah! No these are NOT downtrodden blacks, NOT struggling in a white country.It does not make any statements or give any messages...it is a sweet movie.PERIOD. Nia Long, gives a terrific portrayal of a well-educated landscape architect.Her home is tastefully furnished and she wears gorgeous clothes. Actually...after Jennifer, Nia Long is my favorite of Colin's leading ladies.The film lacks a good script...I said that the day after I saw it... (Bethan)(One question for Ann and Evelyn, would it have been better for CF (as an actor) if MLSF had been released before SLOW (as should have happened). Although I think BVI are going to give MLSF a very low-key release, similar to SLOW's. We don't know what BVI has in store for MLSF...do we. SLOW and MLSF are two v. different films. I don't think they can be compared. I am just glad he is getting some good reviews so he doesn't have to go on stage every night and face an audience that has read bad reviews of SLOW that day. IMO only The Times counts.And I'm sending that one to the bank today. Sorry this is so long.

Just stumble over a site with the nominations for the Olivier Theatre award: http://www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk/olivier.html And no, ODB is not nominated. But Sam Mendes is, and Sophie Thompson (best actress in a musical). And - still more OT, and perhaps of no interest at all for anyone here: for "Outstanding Achievement in Dance" William Forsythe's Ballet company is nominated - they are from Frankfurt where I live!

Those are old nominations, I think, Renate...Sophie Thompson was nominated last year. Evelyn, For SLOW, the Times is good, The Evening Standard (very important in London) is supportive, and the Daily Mail quite likes it. It's a shame about the Telegraph, but I've noticed that reviews vary tremendously depending on the reviewer. The Guardian...I've not liked their film reviews for some time, and SLOW, quite emphatically, is not their kind of film.

Don't worry, Renate. Those are last year's nominees and winners (marked in red). This year's nominations will be done in January as the Olivier awards cover the entire calendar year of 1999.

Thanks Bethan...I'm sending the bank The London Times which is world renowned. About CF: "It's a disarming performance: big on charm and bottled anguish". About the film: "Rambling and slight it may be but also surprisingly endearing." Listen folks...that's one good review. I am sure he is pleased.It could have gone the other way .

(Bethan) Those are old nominations, (Karen) This year's nominations will be done in January as the Olivier awards cover the entire calendar year of 1999. Oh. Thanks. That explains why some of the plays seemed so old to me that I wondered about the time span the award covers. ;-) The beginning of error....

Daily Mail reviews To make a comparative judgement.. Tookey on "Joseph Lees" Verdict ZZZZZZ......lugubrious rural melodrama..inflicted on thr public. Tookey on "Astronaut's Wife" Verdict...dull, a turkey, waste of space. SLOW Verdict: amiable but underpowered romantic drama "Here's a gentle love story set somewhere attractively different among a small Nigerian community on the south coast of France. The heroine is a single mother and landscape gardner (NL). Her neighbours have it in mind for her to marry thenew preacher (AB). The heroine's seven year old son (FR) has no racial preconceptions and prefers an English writer (CF) who summers nearby. The theme of prejudices overcome is similar to that in the British hit of the moment "East is East" and this film suffers in comparison (my comment.."why?"..totally different kind of film). While the two leads charm, some of the other acting is amateurish. Director PS does not avoid cliche and goes for whimsy when a more hard-edged approach was needed to make us feel there's much at stake. It's light on drama and lighter on comedy - a pleasant way of spending a couple of hours. The final comment is rather flippant, and indicates that Tookey doesn't think it has any chance of cinematic success. (Again, why not? A pleasant way of spending a couple of hours is all that alot of us want!!) But it's not a bad review..obviously too whimsical for him.

Not a bad review. In fact, it has a backhanded way of encouraging people to go see it. The final comment is far more positive than one of Siskel's famous regrets for having lost 2 hours of his life-type condemnations. At least Tookey can accept the film for what it is, a light romantic comedy. All the others appear to have gone in expecting a different kind of movie and when they didn't get it, blasted it. Unfortunately, any alien culture meets Brit culture movie will get compared to East is East, whi h I agree is highly dissimilar (and if that filmmaker is not making a fortune to compensate for ridiculing his own family, I'd disown him). ;-D

Karen, I agree with your observation about critics' expectations. It's almost the same sort of reaction to the latest Helen Fielding, condemning the book for not making a serious statement about women, when all it is, is a very entertaining light-hearted read. (BTW came across another Colin bit...Bridget is in prison in Thailand for alleged drug smuggling and has "fantasies involving Mark Darcy/Colin Firth/Prince William (whom Bridget also fancies) bursting in saying "In the name of God and England, release my future wife!" :-) I've seen clips from "East is East"...looks like a parody of Brit perception of immigrant life in the sixties - living over the chip shop, using a bucket because there's no outside loo, sleeping 4 to a bed, stereotypical overweight Asian women. It's probably funny, but life has moved on. Last week we went to a wedding between a very handsome Oxford-educated barrister (whose parents happenened to be Asian) and a pretty university lecturer( whose parents happened to be Scottish). That's where life has moved on to in tne new millennium. Maybe this is too whimsical, not real enough! There was no review of SLOW in the Daily Express, but that's no loss. The reviewer Ryan Gilbey looks about 17. I didn't check the Independent, because what the Guardian dislikes, the Independent loathes. Two of a kind. Overall I don't think SLOW has done too badly. But it's all Bond this week. BTW what sort of reviews did the latest Bond get in the US? I read that it was critically panned (but huge at the Box Office) . Over here, it's raves all the way. I'm suspicious! :-)

Nothing in The Independent Bethan.

I'll tell you about TWINE over at 72, which I had to see the day it opened. ;-D

Grrrr! After the not too bad review in the Times, comes this, by Melissa Whitworth, in the Metro section of Today's Times. Under Openers, she says of SLOW. "In this interracial confection set in France, Colin Frith is a far cry from Mr Darcy. In pursuit of the beautiful, if strait-laced, Nia Long. Firth comes across as an unsympathetic cad. Furthermore, never has a film shown such a wanton misuse of soft fruit." There is a big picture on the following page of Matthew and Sammy, sitting on the wall. Not quite as I have seen it before. Matthew's head is slightly turned. Makes him look more severe but sexier! Lets hope people look at that page and don't read the previous one. Mentioned SLOW to my VDH and he said that his heart was beating quicker already and that of course he would come with me tomorrow! Yeee!

Just a few odd bods, which i'll post here, though they perhaps belong elsewhere. There's an article in today's Times about the new BJ book... "The film of the book should be with us next year....and with Helena B-C playing BJ, there shouln't be any difficuly persuading Mr Right to take a seat in the stalls." There's a small photo of HF in a leather jacket, H B-C, and , then, a much larger one of CF in his Arsenal boxer shorts (Nick Hornby is mentioned in the article)!! Subliminal. Evelyn, I mentioned "Melissa" in which JE starred. There's a new Alan Bleasedale 8 hour adaptation of "Oliver Twist" starting tomorrow, which seems to use all the actors from "Melissa" (excepting JE of course) Bleasedale always uses the same team. THe review calls it "outstanding", but personally I think Bleasedale is over-rated, and 8 hours of "Oliver Twist", well, for me that could be several hours too long. There's also a Sue Birtwhistle/Andrew Davies adaptation of "Wives and Daughters" starring Justin Waddell, who has appeared in several costume dramas. As I've said before, time for the powers that be to remember a good looking talented duo currently on stage and offer them a substantial TV role!!! Finally, I may seem to be antagonistic to RF(!) , but I did think he did everything right in terms of promoting "Onegin", including at least two appearances on TV movie programmes,Breakfast TV, and blanket coverage in glossy mags. Yet "Onegin" is only no 9 in the Box Office charts, with takings of just over �100,000 and a low per screen average. A �10 million movie with a terrific promotion campaign should have done much better. Just highlights how difficult it is to make an impact with art-house movies ( ven upmarket ones) and why, in the UK, TV is the more accessible medium for good actors! That's me done. No more reading of papers...not even the Sundays! Ann, don't read Ann Bilson in the "Sunday Telegraph" tomorrow...i'm convinced she hates all British films/actors!! :-)

Allison, Strange...there's no mention of SLOW in our (northern!)version of Metro. Actually, CF can't win...if his performance is similar to Mr Darcy, he's "reprising his Darcy role", if it's dissimilar (why shouldn't it be), he's "a far cry from Mr Darcy". Darcy is always the point of reference. Time for critics to move on. I'll be seeing SLOW next week, not quite sure when. I'm not 100% confident that it will make it to the regions! But the video should come out quickly then!

Bethan - and why, in the UK, TV is the more accessible medium for good actors and that is why I was so excited when I read that he might have been doing Flashman, six episodes of Flashman on ITV, all the publicity. I mean even though he only has a 10min cameo in the forthcoming TTOTS, he name has been mentioned more than the rest of the cast. He is definitely a TV actor and I do wish he would do more TV, btw where is DQ, no mention of it in the BBC forthcoming Winter schedule. (I am still keepi g my fingers crossed for Flashman, I just think there was too much in the story for it not to be true. Re Alan Bleasdale's OT, I was very sorry that Jennifer was not chosen to play Nancy instead of Emily Woolf, she would have been great and I think of the two I shall probably watch OT and record W& D. I must say I really can't understand why Jennifer has not done more costume drama since her award-winning performance in P&P. As you say KH & JW are always popping up in these costume dramas. Its strange though because Juliet Aubrey who also won a Bafta for Middlemarch is also rarely seen on our TV screens, nd I think she is also a very good actress. Perhaps it is because they are so closely linked to their award-winning performance.

Strangely enough, I thought the same thing about Juliet Aubrey, and then I caught a glimpse of her last week playing a gangster's moll in a rather unpalatable drama. She deserves better. So, Emily Woolf got the part of Nancy? Did JE actually audition? Can't understand this preference. Also, I think Justine Wadham is always the same...I agree with you, I shall probably check out "Oliver Twist" rather than "Wives and Daughters". W&D sounds like a series of cameos, with silly women and unattractive men. And ever since we did "Cranford" for GCSE, I've disliked Mrs Gaskell. The BBC should do "Shirley" by Charlotte Bronte...great male lead..Robert the strongwilled, ambitious, well-born mill-owner, and the two women who love him. Lots of gritty stuff about labour relations and working conditions too...not sentimental stuff. DQ...yes, Karen, our source of all knowledge...any news? I think I'd prefer to see it on TV!!

(Bethan)Actually, CF can't win...if his performance is similar to Mr Darcy, he's "reprising his Darcy role", if it's dissimilar (why shouldn't it be), he's "a far cry from Mr Darcy". Darcy is always the point of reference. Time for critics to move on. Well put and how about some letters to the editors expresssing this thought? We ought to do some lobbying for ODB as well as just drooling over what he does for us, no? I haven't seen SLOW or 3DOR, so I couldn't comment on why he deserves recognition and rewards for them, but I could make remarks about his overall oeuvre if I can get through to them via website. Anyone who actually sees the print version able to do anything in this line?

Allison, I have that new picture of Matt (head turned) and Sammy on my page, along with the "misused soft fruit." ;-D Think it's time for Colin to move on to a hard-edged film drama...he's done too many comedy roles in a row now. On DQ, I have nothing new, but I do have a lead to pursue.

Re: Jennifer (Ann)Re Alan Bleasdale's OT, I was very sorry that Jennifer was not chosen to play Nancy (Bethan) Emily Woolf got the part of Nancy? Did JE actually audition? Can't understand this preference. We don't know if she auditioned....she has been busy with TRT since March, and then ran right into Summerfolk. I do think directors dislike casting an actor who has starred in a famous literary role into another one. People inevitably compare the two:"She was a better Lizzie.." Also, I think Justine Waddell is always the same.. Ditto. I just saw her in Mansfield Park..same ole, same ole. ( Ann) I must say I really can't understand why Jennifer has not done more costume drama since her award-winning performance in P&P Well, she did Wilde and now Summerfolk. I must say that her Annie in the TRT is outstanding.LOL, she is always a class act even in dreadlocks in This Year's Love. ~~~~~~~ (Cymbeline)We ought to do some lobbying for ODB as well as just drooling over what he does for us, no? Good luck, Cymbeline. This crowd is hard to crank up and do any much along the lobbying line.(**Ducking the tomatoes**) ~~~~~~~ Tomorrow is the A&E Pride and Prejudice Marathon. All six episodes...one sitting! We always get new fans after this yearly event. ~~~~~ (Bethan)Re; RF I did think he did everything right in terms of promoting "Onegin", including at least two appearances on TV movie programmes But at least he got it out on the big screen. That film is older than MLSF.. has hit every Film Festival in the world and he finally moved it. Now it will even be shown in the US...and on cable.Colin could well take a lesson here. At least CF and JE get residuals.

At least CF and JE get residuals. This refers to P&P on television...(It was hiding.)

(Evelyn)This crowd is hard to crank up and do any much along the lobbying line.(**Ducking the tomatoes**) Someone wrote a letter a month or so ago castigating someone for ignoring CF--my apologies for not being able to remember the writer, but it was a good letter, and we ought to do more. How about you folks who've seen 3DOR--you've put some cogent insights on this discussion site. Copy and paste them into an email to the ES. Let's lob the soft fruit in the direction it ought to go. We are certainly creative and prolific here--can't we go public a little and show him that we can do more than drive our Volv s and drool?

hi everyone! I don't know if you remember me, I posted here a few times several months ago. I returned from a long trip to the US a little while ago, had a great time! I was delighted to hear about SLOW, and BJD (love you HF!). I only wish that any of CF projects will come to Israel any time soon (no MLSF here just yet, although I catch it when I was in Chicago I stiil want to see it with hebrew translation). I'll probably be in the DONMAR on January 15th, so I'll try to catch any CF new work there (do you think SLOW will still be showing in January?) Adi.

(Cymbeline) Someone wrote a letter a month or so ago castigating someone for ignoring CF--my apologies for not being able to remember the writer, but it was a good letter, Who else but Evelyn? She always puts her money where her mouth is. (And you'll notice, dear Evelyn, that I didn't put an adjective denoting size in front of "mouth"). ;-) We also have quite a few others who've made phone calls and sent e-mails so it is done and will be done again. Reminding a reviewer every now and then that DB is more than Darcy seems to be necessary with every new film. Speaking of Darcy, thanks for the reminder about P&P. And for those who still don't have their CF fix, The English Patient is showing immediately after. Forget which channel though - TNT?

Great to have you back with us, Adi....and we look forward to seeing you in January. Someone wrote a letter a month or so ago castigating someone for ignoring CF-- (Heide)(And you'll notice, dearEvelyn, that I didn't put an adjective denoting size in front of "mouth"). ; LOL....Say it Heide....:-)) Cymbeline that was to Movieline, the US magazine...and actually, I gave them ten lashes for leaving Colin out of the list of hot British Actors..when they included JN,Rufus Sewell etc. He is an unknown in the US...but I wonder what good it would do to write to the UK columnists or if it would just perpetuate the "heart-throb" reputation.

re Jennifer Evelyn, could it be that she was commited to Sunshine at about the time OT was casting. I hope they both do more television next year, it is so more accessible and can be videoed without waiting months and months. My Wish-List for Colin and Jennifer for the year 2000 - Colin, Flashman (as I saidf I have not given up on this), BJD and Higgins in My Fair Lady which I believe is coming to ther West End next year and there was a whisper a few months ago in the Baz Bambigoyne Column that Colin's na e had been mentioned. For Jennifer, well she is busy for 8months of next year, but perhaps she could fit in a few months filming The Forsyte Sage, she would make an excellent Irene or Fleur, and there was talk many months ago that the BBC were to remake TFS. Wishful thinking I know.

Cymbeline has a good idea. When I've had questions of newpapers/magazines, I've gotten immediate responses. Don't know if they'd respond to criticism, although I believe the newspapers have an option to send a letter to the editor and indicate if it is for publication. BTW, after thanking Optimum for the materials they provided, I commented on the Q&A session at the Ritzy and the lack of professionalism displayed by Misan Sagay with her comments. So there. (of course, I haven't heard back from them)

I commented on the Q&A session at the Ritzy and the lack of professionalism displayed by Misan Sagay with her comments. So there. (of course, I haven't heard back from them) Bravissima, Karen! you did the right thing and I am sure there must be others at Optimum which feel the same way. Bethan, I am so glad you will have your escape to see SLOW. Thank you all for the reviews info postings.

From http://www.virgin.net/cinema/whatson/index.bvs?form%25loc_name=WC1&form%25what_name=Secret+Laughter+of+Women&form%25venue_name=&GO.x=15&GO.y=9 Cinema - What's On - SLOW Colin Firth, who set pulses racing as the dashing Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, is back in romantic mood in this curiously titled, clumsily assembled comedy-drama. Firth plays an English comic book writer who falls for a Nigerian single mother while lying low on the French Riviera. The object of his affections, Nia Long, is being pushed by her ex-pat community into marrying a local preacher. But her young son (Fissy Roberts), who just happens to be Firth's biggest fan, brings them together so often that Long eventually falls for the Englishman's low-key charms. Quite who writer O O Sagay and director Peter Schwabach thought this unlikely curio would appeal to is anyone's guess. Some people may enjoy watching Brixton transplanted to Southern France, but it's not enough to excuse the excruciating two-hour running time, or make us care a fig about Firth's inexplicable hankering for the unremarkable Long. by Neil Smith

Hmm. Oh dear, another male review. And another reference to Dashing Darcy. One of Colin's problems (I think, though may be wrong ) is that men really don't like him at all. Actors like Ewan McGregor, Tim Roth, have a distinct male following...CF hasn't. I just caught glimpse of a Movie Review programme on Arena (cable channel). The reviewers and presenter were all male, under 25, from magazines like Uncut, Loaded and Total Film. It was like watching something in a foreign language. Fortunately, no mention of SLOW!

To offset the awful review from Virgin.net, here's one from an independent film site in the UK. It is indulgently favorable, echoing many of the same comments that we had on our spoiler topic, but written by someone who so obviously knows the culture. http://www.6degrees.co.uk/films/mag_rev227_print.htm

And here from Ann Bilson in the Sunday Telegraph. "Ah, but we film ctitics are paid to suffer so that you may avoid the pain. Take SLOW which is set among the Nigerian community in a strange part of France where no one speaks French. Nia Long, beautiful young widow and mother of a truly ghastly child, is being pushed into family-approved marriage but falls for comic book writer Colin Firth. This is supposed to be a romantic comedy but it's an unstructured mess which gives even Mad Cows a run for its money as Worst Movie of This or Any Other Year. Let's hear it for the Arts Council which once again has succeeded in squandering Natonal Lottery money on a screenplay so inept and unfocused it should have been smothered at birth."

Not too good in The Sunday Times either 1* but I like the last sentence "Pretty scenery and sweet performances from the leads are some consolation" However, that comparison with "Mad Cows" has really upset me, because it is no where as bad as that!! Also in The Sunday Times not a very good review of TWINE and they have compilled a list of new Bonds, guess who has been left out but Greg Wise is mentioned at 2-1 no way, Ralph Feinnes 5-1 I hope hot, Jeremy Northam 4-1, if him why not Colin, Rufus Sewell 4-1 too slight, and Ioan Gruffudd at 3-1 who seems favourite and is everyone's favourite at the moment.

Ann Bilson should be smothered at at birth. I actually wrote to the Telegraph to complain about her vicious review of British films (wasn't published!). She seems to maintain a vendetta against Arts Council films. And I remember she was very cutting about "Valmont"..."C-list actors, redeemed only by a good performance by Annette Bening". Never forgave her for that! I actually much prefer reading US critics...even when they're critical, they're not personal in their attacks. Well at least she didn't say th t the director and cast should be lined up and shot. But "worst film of this or any other year" is very cruel. Will kill the film. I hope this doesn't dent his confidence...he's never struck me as being a very self-confident man. I'm seriously dubious now as to whether he'll play Mark Darcy, unless the script is brilliant, or indeed any other romantic lead. As someone who has lived in Nigeria for several years, I'm looking forward to seeing SLOW...as Karen mentions, none of the critics seem to have the least interest in or knowledge of the culture. Brixton isn't Nigeria. Oh well, stuff the reviews. I always knew Ann Bilson would rubbish it. Although there were some good reviews...the Times, Evening Standard (OK), Time Out (wasn't too bad), the London Film Festival Review, and the first review I read which gave it 3 stars. Even the Daily Mail was okay. The omission from the Bond list doesn't surprise me ...he's not naturally dark haired, and I think Bond has to have this colouring. And anyway, Colin has a tendency to be omitted from lists. Except lists of actors who have played Mr Darcy! :-) Well,at least, thank goodness he's had recognition for his stage acting, and I hope he draws on this in his future performances (not memories of Ann Bilson!). What movie of his comes out next? In a way, I hope it's DQ. Not a romantic role, doesn't get the girl, is a loser and has a nervous breakdown, and the script is good. (Have to say, for the future, I'd also like to see him steer clear of first time screen-writers and also be offered stronger, more socially relevant dramatic roles!) No more reviews!! Am off to clear autumn leaves!

(Virgin Review) Some people may enjoy watching Brixton transplanted to Southern France, but it's not enough to excuse the excruciating two-hour running time, or make us care a fig about Firth's inexplicable hankering for the unremarkable Long. Frankly this smacks of racism - there is only one connection between Grasse's Rue Bonaparte and Brixton (mainly black inhabitants), and why CF should not fall for a beautiful and spirited woman is hard to imagine, unless it's meant to take more than that to love a black woman, perhaps? Also I am confused about the running time. Being on the tight schedule I was, I am convinced that SLOW ran for 100 minutes - yet reviews and film info say 2 hours. Could critics have seen a longer version?

Bethan- Colin has a tendency to be omitted from Lists you can say that again but WHY, he is every bit as good an actor as any of his Contemporaries.(sp?)

Hello everyone I have been lurking a long time, but never felt I had something to say until now. Last week I have been in London and have seen 3DOR twice. I loved the performances very much and I think CF looked very much like Mr. Darcy in some parts. After the first perfomance, which was on an evening, he did give some autographs but left very soon as he was with some friends. For my second I had to queue for a return and was very lucky to get one. There were also some autograph collectors who waited for the actors to go up.So I waited with them. When Colin came I was very amazed to see him wear gla ses. Of course I'm not sure whether he just wears them for disguise. One man asked him whether he could take a photograph of Colin and he answered,he'd rather not at tis moment.Then I mustered all my courage and asked Colin if he could spare a few minutes for me between shows. He was very friendly and said they had some things to do between shows,but he would come down and I should wait for him there. After the performance he did come down and after giving a few autographs and having pictures taken he looked for me and I could talk to him. More later

Mark, the running time (in some reviews) is given as 95 minutes, which seems to be more realistic for a romantic comedy than an over-long 120 minutes. I would also trust your assessment of the running time (as you were "bunking off" and anxious to get back to work in time!) more than that of some of the critics who barely seem to have been watching the film. Commenting beyond the context of this particular movie, and on behalf of many small-scale films that are scathingly received, I must say that I am disturbed by the power of reviewers in the UK. Reviews are often very short, ill-considered and destructive. It must be very disheartening for directors/writers/producers, who have put years of effort into getting their product on screen, to see all their work negated by a few words. Small films depend on good reviews. I did suggest in my (unpublished!)letter t the Sunday Telegraph that Ann Bilson put some of her "creative" energy into actually making a film ...just to find out how difficult and depressing it can be! BTW, on the BJ fim and playing Mark Darcy, this may be safer ground. There are bigger guns involved...the producer was resposible for SIL, Richard Curtis co-wrote the screenplay (presumably), Universal are backing it...they have the power to promote and also to practice damage limitation if necessary. Small films with no promotional budget can just be cut down. Back to Autumn leaves.

Just one more contribution...to counteract the negativity of the Telegraph reviews! I read the SLOW review in "Time Out" at the newstand, but was too stingy to buy it, and thought the review was so-so. But I jotted down some phrases from memory, and must say compared to the Ann Bilson School of Criticism, it was a longish, articulate review. SLOW...not short of good intentions but as a would-be romantic comedy, Peter Scwabach's unguarded naivety doesn't pay off. Attempts to keep drama light and sunny and sensitive lapse into rose tinted whimsy. Too many genre cliches..more romantic than comic. Acting is one of the film's strengths Director and scrreenwriter provide attractive local colour and culture. Not so bad!! Welcome Nita! Please tell us more.

Yes Welcome Nita, please we want more and was Colin wearing his glasses when he spoke to you?

NITA!!! Thank you for coming out of lurkdom. We want to hear more about (1) Colin wearing glasses (what kind/style of glasses were they?) and (2) what you spoke to him about. About these additional reviews in The Times and Telegraph...what goes on? It appears these capsule reviews are written by other than the newspaper's principal critics. Here, they just pick out a few comments that give the overall flavor and publish for ongoing reference. What gives? I mean, the original Times review was fairly favorable and now this other critic comes in and writes a pathetic piece and that only serves to counteract the newspaper's original recommendation. Are they playing both sides of the fence to maintain readership? Have never seen anything like it. tsk tsk (Bilson) Take SLOW which is set among the Nigerian community in a strange part of France where no one speaks French. Take The Scarlet Pimpernel, where no one speaks French or even English with a French accent. (Ann) a list of new Bonds I read that article with much interest last night. Can't believe the odds (provided by Ladbrokes) for Fiennes are that good even with The Avengers fiasco pointing out that he can't do debonair. Ioan Gruffudd doesn't stand a chance because (a) he's too young...although the next movie he will be up for is about 4-5 years away...and (b) his name, which requires subtitles and we all know Americans don't like subtitles. (Bethan) I'm seriously dubious now as to whether he'll play Mark Darcy, unless the script is brilliant, or indeed any other romantic lead. I do think CF needs to move away from the rom-com genre and into serious contemporary drama. But I would still love to see him in BJD. It will be such a high-profile film like a Notting Hill. he's not naturally dark haired, and I think Bond has to have this colouring. Certainly doesn't have to (remember Roger Moore), but we know Colin has no problem dying his hair. He was the v. dark-haired Darcy. ;-D (Mark) Frankly this smacks of racism I thought so too. How could that have been published? And Bethan, I've put many of the reviews (like TimeOut) in Drool's Bucket, so you won't have to jot down phrases.

(Bethan), Reviews are often very short, ill-considered and destructive. That is what happened in Miami with MLSF. No one came to see it. It seems that no matter what he tries to do, he will never live the Darcy thing down so he might as well play Mark Darcy. It will be a high profile film and it may be the only way to have critics see him in a different light as Mr. Darcy. Reverse psychology and all that. (Karen), I do think CF needs to move away from the rom-com genre and into serious contemporary drama. I am subscribed to BBC America and have a very hard time watching the serious contemporary drama. The characters and the story lines are just not interesting. Who is their intended audience? (Karen), Thank you for coming out of lurkdom. We want to hear more about (1) Colin wearing glasses (what kind/style of glasses were they?) and (2) what you spoke to him about. Welcome Nita! We want to hear lots more. :-D

So glad you posted here, Nita. Had you seen it in March? Did you have to travel far and if so, what made you decide to make the trek? We're glad you did and happy you're willing to share. Phooey on reviews. Why obsess over the bad ones? There were some good ones too. Does no one mention this film was made two years ago? Colin's done some a lot of work since then - most of which any of us have yet to see. Are we afraid bad reviews are going to prevent us from seeing his new work? Heck no, none of these reviewers can remember anything Colin's done to his previous work except for Mr. Darcy. Are we afraid bad reviews are going to prevent us from seeing SLOW? Maybe, so better get to the inema quickly, girls. As for me, I knew there was little if any chance of SLOW making it to these shores because our own drool reviewers have told us it's a sweet but unremarkable film. I don't need a newspaper reviewer to concur for me to realize that SLOW is not going to be a highlight of his career. Have forgotten, does the new Donmar program still use SLOW in CF's bio?

Yes Heide it does, althou as mentioned here before ,I believe, his bio is shorter than that of the other two. For someone not knowing the cast, at first glance it would appear he is the least experienced etc from the Donmar programme. Did he approve this I wonder? Welcome Nita, we would love to hear more of your own Donmar Delights.

Here are the results of the Best British actor website: Best Site for an Actor or Actress Robson Green with 39% of the votes. As the voting was so close in this category, we have decided to make an extra award - Highly Commended, which goes to The Alan Bates Archive which gained 37% of the votes, just 2% less than the winner. Because it gained almost quarter of the votes cast, Colin Firth - an Appreciation gains a special Recomended Site award. ~~~~~ Someone has to tell Peter Latham how to spell "Recommended". Congratulations Murph!!At least he made this list which included all the actors mentionsed in the New Bond list. ~~~~~~ We all should write to Ann Bilson at the Telegraph. What is the S-Mail address please. ~~~~~ Agree with Mark The Virgin review does smack of racism. Insulting at best. In the US no publisher would dare print that. ~~~~~~ (Bethan)Re: Ann Bilson's review in the Telegraph...Well at least she didn't say the director and cast should be lined up and shot. The director and script-writer....Yesss. ~~~~~ (Heide)Phooey on reviews. Why obsess over the bad ones? There were some good ones too. Not many...and we're just hyperventilating. It was not the Movie of the Year...but not the worst by a long shot. And the bad reviewers are almost playing "Who can write the worst review..." t the director and cast should be lined up and shot.

Sorry, ignore this:t the director and cast should be lined up and shot. Welcome Nita

Poor SLOW reviews in The Observer and Popcorn as well. Time for something more upbeat. From USA Today's Weekend section, celeb Q & A column: Q: My daughter and I are equally drawn to the tall, dark and handsome British actor Colin Firth. Why isn't he a superstar? A: Women on both sides of the Atlantic have been swooning over Firth since his appearance as Mr. Darcy in the BBC's Pride and Prejudice. But he says, "I get the jitters if too much attention is focused on me. And I wouldn't do something just for a big paycheck." To the happily married Firth, 39, whose roles in The English Patient and Shakespeare In Love were scene stealers, "a character who's straight down the line with no twists or quirks is boring. 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."

Well done Murph. Nice to see ODB on a list!

Haven't we seen the Popcorn one before? I'm pretty sure someone posted a review by Tom Dawson.

Yes, well done Murph. Your site is very much appreciated! Karen, thanks for compiling all the reviews for SLOW. Are you going to include the Daily Mail crit , which I posted on Friday (2stars).It's not too bad. But I'd use editorial discretion over Ms Bilson's "review"! Evelyn, the Sunday Telegraph e-mail is sletters@telegraph.co.uk I plan to send off another copy of my complaint...not specific to SLOW, but more as a general reaction to her demolition of all things British!! Give them a chance! Karen, Sunday papers tend to use different reviewers, hence the differing opinions. The Sunday Times Culture is definitely targeted at a young age group. I used to enjoy reading reviewers like Geoff Brown in the Times, or Quentin Curtis in the Telegraph, but they've all been replaced by younger critics who seem to write for Loaded magazine! Mark, you are exempt from my criticism of male reviewers! H-any-way, definitely ENOUGH on reviews!!!! Only silver lining...that he may be prompted by the sharp claws of the film critics to return to the safer waters of good TV drama with a ready made appreciative audience!!:-) He apparently told someone he wasn't planning on taking a break, so I hope he'll plunge straight into BJD and Flashman!! Or something equivalent. So he's wearing specs...how interesting. Camouflage or short sight?

Karen, I think that review at Popcorn is the one from Empire or Total Film magazine, can't remember which. I understand 3DOR is getting better and better, hope the critics are taking note! I second your hopes for Flashman & BJD Bethan, why bother with films when so many of us would like to see back on the TV, many people have written to Teletext and Ceefax bemoaning the fact that he has not been on our screens for far too long.

Well, I don't know if this will make you feel better about SLOW ( :-) ), butI've just tried to watch the "new production from the makers of P&P" on BBC, and to be frank, all I thought initially was "Bring back Darcy and Lizzie"!! The production values are high, in so far as it looks good and the settings are beautiful - the location shots actually reminded me of P&P- and "Lady Catherine" is in it. But that's it...I found it boring and switched off before the end. The men are unattractive and Molly (JW)is irritating. No doubt the critics will rave, but I'd rather watch CF squashing tomatoes in the worst movie of the year!! And "Oliver Twist"...what I glimpsed of it, jumping channels, although I think it's still on at the moment, seemed even worse. Two hours! And three more episodes to come. JE was well out of this one, IMHO!

I agree about W&D Bethan, but I quite enjoyed OT, will watch next week, I think. I like Julie Walters but to me she is always the same.

Thanks for the kind words about the contest. A friend sent me that page with all the possible Bonds, and I have uploaded it to here: New James Bond? Hope I did it right this time! Murph

I don't understand how you didn't win, Murph (of course, I didn't look at the Bates or Robson Green pages), but I did vote in true Chicago fashion. Hizzoner, da mayor (may he rest in peace), would have awarded me a ghost contract for my efforts. ;-D

Karen: The Bates site is outstanding. The web mistress there has become a correspondent. Her thoughts on doing web sites for celebrities, which appeared at the Theater site this past year, was very helpful to me. I don't know much about the Green site, but he is obviously popular! And no wonder...I loved him in Reckless. Peter Lathan, who ran the contest, says he is still looking for software that allows you to only vote once. He hasn't found it yet, and knows people voted mucho times for their favorites. Murph What do you all think of Colin in glasses! I have an old collage up on my news pages of pics of him in same. I love the look. Glasses Collage

Pride and Prejudice Marathon was wonderful!!! Sorry to hear about W&D and OT 'cause we're bound to get them both.... I have just emailed A&E and asked them to continue making it a Thanksgiving Tradition. I ask you please to do the same. We did it last year and they apparently got the message. http://www.aetv.com/feedback/feedback.html

I'd rather watch CF squashing tomatoes in the worst movie of the year!! And so would we all - but that's no consolation for Colin, who needs to safeguard his credibility. I bet ATA and SLOW scripts looked great on paper - until the finished product left the cutting room. But let's not forget FP, TEP, SIL and MLSF - not so bad, after all. Darcy was a wonderfully strong and romantic character executed with near-perfection and it will be difficult for Colin to find another role which would at least equal that one. If he is not liked by men, it is because neither as an actor, nor as a private man does he project a cynical/butch type, which seems currently prevalent as a male role model. Someone might say - neither does Hugh Grant, but he has been caught in a cynical/butch-like situation in real life and so he's been accepted as one of the lads... Generally, the so-called thinking women's heroes are disliked by the majority of the male style gurus. Colin has apparently tried to act cynical/laddish by sometimes using trong expletives when interviewed by male journalists, but it didn't work well and I think he's now abandoned this approach.

(Arami), Colin has apparently tried to act cynical/laddish by sometimes using strong expletives when interviewed by male journalists, but it didn't work well and I think he's now abandoned this approach. I am disappointed he would care to impress those male/journalists at all. Happy to see your site did so well Murph! I think we all voted Chicago-style. ;-)

I'd rather watch CF squashing tomatoes in the worst movie of the year!! And so would we all - but that's no consolation for Colin, who needs to safeguard his credibility. I bet ATA and SLOW scripts looked great on paper - until the finished product left the cutting room. But let's not forget FP, TEP, SIL and MLSF - not so bad, after all. Darcy was a wonderfully strong and romantic character executed with near-perfection and it will be difficult for Colin to find another role which would at least equal that one. If he is not liked by men, it is because neither as an actor, nor as a private man does he project a cynical/butch type, which seems currently prevalent as a male role model. Someone might say - neither does Hugh Grant, but he has been caught in a cynical/butch-like situation in real life and so he's been accepted as one of the lads... Generally, the so-called thinking women's heroes are disliked by the majority of the male style gurus. Colin has apparently tried to act cynical/laddish by sometimes using trong expletives when interviewed by male journalists, but it didn't work well and I think he's now abandoned this approach.

Ann, Colin didn't wear the glasses when he came down after the performance, and honestly, I was much too exited to notice what they looked like. But there is something else which I did notice.He came down with a women who looked like she was a security-person as she was wearing a kind of belt with a walky-talky across her chest.When we talked she waitetd for him. I wondered whether she is his bodyguard. We talked about PP and Darcy and Colin said he wasn't at all like Darcy.But while he said it he looked and behaved so much like Mr. Darcy,that I find it very difficult to believe him. After a few minutes there were more fans who wanted autographs and we couldn't talk any longer and he said very friendly good-bye.

(Arami).... but that's no consolation for Colin, who needs to safeguard his credibility. I bet ATA and SLOW scripts looked great on paper - until the finished product left the cutting room. .... Agree. But how can an actor get around that...contractual? (Arami)..... Darcy was a wonderfully strong and romantic character executed with near-perfection and it will be difficult for Colin to find another role which would at least equal that one. I'll drink to that.... Imagine...Arami & I agreeing on two points It must be the season...:-))

(Evelyn) But how can an actor get around that...contractual? Become Tom Cruise or Tom Hanks?? Most directors can't even get approval for the final cut. Bethan, thanks for the explanation of multiple reviews by a single newspaper. Am so glad that doesn't happen here. While the major papers here have more than one critic (a main critic and various underlings), only one of them will review a given film. Therefore, if someone says the X Times recommended a film, there's no question about it. Am going back to pick up any stray reviews I have put on the page, although I haven't come across the name Tom Dawson yet. Ann, the review from Total Film didn't have a name, but it too used the term "anaemic performance" to describe Colin's performance. Maybe that's what I remembered? ;-D

anaemic performance How could they say that! Just back from seeing SLOW. Shall post on 126.

Karen, the Popcorn reviewer is Tom Dawson. (Not to be confused with Jack Dawson or Rose Dawson;-) Starts out saying something like: Nimi's family is not impressed by Matthew--didn't they see Pride & Prejudice? He says he found the characterizations "faintly racially patronising." Does any of this sound familiar? If not, I have it somewhere and can forward to you, though I'm not sure you'd want it on your page.;-) The one in the Observer is by Phillip French; not sure you'll want that one either.;-) RE: mutiple film revews from a single publication. The only time I can ever recall that happening here was this past summer when Janet Maslin wrote the rave review on Eyes Wide Shut in the NYT; shortly thereafter, they published a very negative one from an underling (the woman who I think is going to be taking Maslin's place). That really signaled JM's death knell; they thought she was too soft. A pity. Way to go, Murph! But you wuz robbed, kid.

Mari, thanks, I have both reviews and, btw, the Popcorn site is the one with the SLOW trailer of a bunch of not-so-secretly-laughing women that I posted to Springfolks, I think??? Anywho, maybe, I'll just put links to the bad reviews and not put the text in... At the Trib, the same film might be reviewed by Siskel and Michael Wilmington, but Siskel had long since given up the title of Chief Critic to Wilmington and was a "guest columnist" every Friday. Since Siskel's death, no duplicate reviews that I recall.

(Nita)When we talked she waitetd for him. I wondered whether she is his bodyguard. Well if she was (and I hope to god she wasn�t) I�m really angry with someone who has caused this. He looked so very secure in March. Has something happened that has made him feel like needing a professional around to handle certain situations? Obviously the possible trouble maker has been a woman, otherwise the bodyguard wouldn�t be female.

I know it is an old warhorst, but I would like to see ODB do Wuthering Heights. Heathcliff is a very taciturn, troubled man and should be done by an actor who can project his anger and pain by body language, facial expressions and the ability to convey his thought with the use of his eyes. We all know that no one can do this better tha Colin as in The English Patient, when he was sitting in the car waiting for her to return for their 1st anniversary. You could see all that he was going through just by watching his eyes. It was the best part of the entire movie and the idiots who cut scenes to make way for the commercial on the tape cut it out. They were too stupid to see that everthing that happened centered on this one incident. The plane crash that started the story was about that scene.

According to The Albermarle Theatre Website 3DOR stands at No.2 in The Top Ten Plays in London, does anyone know if this is based on Box Office or Critics' Opinions. I too would be very sorry if something has happened for Colin to need a Bodyguard, how can he be his natural self to his fans if he has something like this hanging over him. Might explain though why Livia has not been seen at the Theatre.

The walky-talky woman likely worked for the Donmar org. A building like that would definitely have a security guard on premises at all times. There are NO accounts of any bodyguards accompanying Colin out of the Donmar or even a car picking him up or dropping him off. In fact, he just walks down the street alone or with friends.

(Karen)In fact, he just walks down the street alone or with friends To the nearest Tube station perhaps?!?!

Don't know where he goes and isn't that the way it should be? ;-D

Bless him where ever he goes. Instead of the Tube he probably goes to his flashy car in a nearby parking house :-)

Instead of the Tube he probably goes to his flashy car in a nearby parking house :-) I doubt it is flashy. A couple of years ago he was still driving a very Toyota or was it a Honda?

Eeeek. That should read "ancient" Toyota. What is happening to me? I have firthitis.

When he was doing FP interviews I am sure I read it was a C reg Nissan. For sure it's NOT a volvo!! BTW Bethan, I also could not bear W&D and just had to switch off.

(Allison)Toyota or was it a Honda? Hey, where did you get this? Nissan Maxima is the only car that I remember being mentioned in his interviews. I know this for sure because after I read it a couple of years ago I almost ended up buying one myself (the price of that car helped me to come back to my senses :-D)

And so would we all - but that's no consolation for Colin, who needs to safeguard his credibility. I bet ATA and SLOW scripts looked great on paper - until the finished product left the cutting room. But let's not forget FP, TEP, SIL and MLSF - not so bad, after all. (Arami} Agreed! Also (like Evelyn!)I thoroughly agree with the other points you've made! I also think that editing is crucial, and it would appear that in ATA, SLOW, and to a certain extent MLSF (didn't Harvey take over?), editing responsibilty was disputed. Lizza's right about the car...it was a C Reg Nissan Cherry (I remember, because we'd just bought a (nearly new) Nissan Primera! Very reliable, Nissans! Lizza, I must admit that although I didn't take to W&D, it did give me a pang because superficially it remined me of P&P. I think the same production team must have been used...some of the location shots looked similar, the cinematography was reminiscent of P&P. Nothing else! But I would very like to see CF acting in that sort of "protected environment", knowing that the production values are high and there'll be no post-production squabbling.. There just don't seem to be many good roles for male actors e pecially in costume dramas! (I'd like to have seen him in the role of Henry I in "Lion in Winter" with Pat O'Connor directing. He's just the right age (Henry married at 18, had three sons by his early twenties and died in his late forties) A. Hopkins is way too old) Thanks for your comments on SLOW, Allison. I'll post mine when I've seen it (not long now!) BTW there are Nigerian communities in the South of France, and also much larger communities from Francophone Africa. Although they're mostly concentrated around Marseille.

Too bad about W&D.The same team (AD and SB) did the TV Emma, which hasn't been heard of since. So where is the third member of the P&P team... Simon Langton. Apparently, he's crucial.Does anyone know what he's done lately?

What about The Mayor of Casterbridge? (4million pounds) Bethan, it was mentioned on Teletext this morning, ITV are to make it, no castings yet, to be screened in 2001. (? Bates was in the original) - my mind has gone a blank!!

Ann, the Tom Dawson mystery is solved. He did write the smallish piece in Total Film. Found the original you sent me. The popcorn one is the full piece.

Thanks Karen. (Alan Bates, of course)

Bethan, I admit to pangs too, how right you are. I was near the area it was filmed yesterday, a place called Marshfield, which is not so very far from Bath, nor from Lacock. Did I not read somewhere (dredging deep here!) that after P&P2 , adaptations had to have an "F Factor" (that's F for Firth!!) or else they would not take off, not just here but abroad too, and without it they wouldn't hit the public consciousness etc W&P just ain't got it.

According to Teletext OT won the battle of the ratings last night by just over a million, unfortunately for W&D, and I am sorry about this as it may discourage the BBC from making expensive costume dramas in the future, they lost 2 millions viewers apparently they started off with 9million plus and ended up with 7million plus. Also Evelyn, I agree with you that Simon Langton must be the missing link, he also directed Upstairs & Downstairs and that had that certain something that P&P had.

I hope that what he drives is indeed an ancient Nissan b/c that is what I drive although not a Maxima.

Yes, what happened to Simon Langton? I've not been aware of anything else directed by him since P&P. Ann, Teletext is a goldmine! The Mayor of Casterbridge....now that's not a bad project. Henchard is described as the most "primitive and virile of all Hardy's heroes", "a man destroyed by his own passion". Can be a bit downbeat though. But I'd actually like to see CF do this. Something with real meat! And I think ITV definitely have the edge in drama. I'm not surprised that W&D lost its audience. I actually think the potential audience might have been misled by all the "from the makers of Pride and Prejudice" style advertising. As I said, my initial reaction was "Bring back Lizzie and Darcy!!" There's certainly no Darcy in W&D (indeed the potential for romance is very disappointing!) and Justine Waddell isn't a patch on JE. There was some good character acting I suppose, but it didn't "grab" me.

Hello Nita, I'm very new to this list myself, so I feel a bit awkward in welcoming you. I Don't feel as though I`ve paid enough dues, or something. Thank you for the providing the vicarious thrill of reading about your trip to 3DOR and your talking with CF. If I ever get to see on stage, I wouldn't have the guts to want to meet him. This is due mostly to the fact that I'm a frustrated writer. Scenario: I see CF, causing me to charge toward him yelling, "Mr. Firth have I got a screenplay concept for you!" At which point, the poor man runs from me in abject terror. I could remember the whole episode as "How I met Colin Firth and got arrested." That just would not do. No, I am not the reason the (apparent) security guard was with him. I have not been in London within the last year. As for the James Bond list. Who cares? CF is fortunate his name isn't on the list to play that trash. They should drive a stake through the heart of that worn-out, irrelevant series. The only way to continue the series well would be as period adventure comedies, as the character and situations are so dependent on the cold war and Hugh Hefner's playboy philosophy. Better yet, forget Bond, why bother with that tripe when there's Austin Powers. Also, we stupid Americans seem to love Ioan Gruffudd, roug translation would be either "handsome Welsh actor" or "John Griffith".

(CherylB) see CF, causing me to charge toward him yelling, "Mr. Firth have I got a screenplay concept for you!" At which point, the poor man runs from me in abject terror. Just don't yell "another cuckold part" and maybe he'll stay. As for the James Bond list. Who cares? ... They should drive a stake through the heart of that worn-out, irrelevant series. On this we agree. Think we should quash the bodyguard reference now. Karen's suggestion is more plausible.

Speaking of the Mayor of Castlebridge and others... I would love to hear from as many of you as possible on what characters - either real life or fictional - you would like to see CF play, and why. You can also stipulate film or stage or TV in your explanation. I know we've done it before, but I don't remember all the answers being listed in one place. Go To It! A Firth Survey I will post all the answers with some of your choicer comments on a new page in a few weeks. Murph

(Lucie)I would like to see ODB do Wuthering Heights. Lucie, I can understand why, if only there was a scriptwriter and a director in this world to be able to do handle that magnificent material well enough. Heathcliff is a frightening and paradoxal character and I hated him all through the book because of the terrible things he did, and was touched by his desperate passion....I�ve always said that Colin would be great in horror stories because of his capability of great intensity/subtlety and WH is very close to one.

Karen, I may be wrong but according to Yahooo Top 100 for the weekend before last, Mansfield Park opened at #44, at 8 theatres, and I think didn't do as well as MLSF at only 5 theatres in its opening weekend, and this is with much more vigorouse promotion thatn MLSF had. Just think how it might have done with just a little more help!!

Ann, I didn't check last week's boxoffice figures, but you're probably right. MP is currently in 26th place (playing on 30 screens), grossing about $10K per screen. Not so hot, but enough...for the time being.

Do I feel some depression here over the general public's (including some of our own) reaction to SLOW? I hope I am wrong. I spent whole afternoon of the last Sunday to watch P&P. I video taped it although I've already owned a six tapes set. So when I want to watch the whole thing, I don't have to get up to change tape every 50 some minutes and dump my ice cream bowl on the floor (it only happened once though). I'm very pleased whenever a commercial break was needed, the announcer would say "Pride and Prejudice starring Colin Firth will be right back...". I just love to hear his name to be announced over and over again ;-). (Although I thought JE deserves the same credit for P&P). It definitely gained more to the Firthies crowd on this side of pond while SLOW was playing on the other side.

Karen, I just noticed what name you gave the Colin-feet-tomato pic (I know I'm slow. Read: s l o w and not SLOW). I love it! What film is it from again? COW (cheering of women)?

(Xian) the announcer would say"Pride and Prejudice starring Colin Firth will be right back...". I just love to hear his name to be announced over and over again;-). (Although I thought JE deserves the same credit for P&P). Now that you mention it.....Grrrrrr. Nice to hear his name...but I wanted to shout.... "Who the h***kept those six episodes together.:-D "I know, I know...he drove the bus, and she is an unknown here....but at least they could have said: "and.....". evelyn....* doing a slow burn on this side of the pond*:-D (Did not mention that to A&E in my thank you)

Who the h***kept those six episodes together.:-D You�re absolutely right Evelyn, Elizabeth of course is the most important person in the whole thing and Jennifer is the real star in P&P by far. And what an excellent performance that was. One just tends to forget these obvious facts when winding and rewinding and drooling for what�s his name.

News on SLOW...the video is out in April. Film will be on very selected release in the UK in the next few weeks...they only know where it will be a week in advance. For example, is at Manchester Showcase next week. Leeds Showcase soon (not art-house) If you want to find out about your region, ring Optimum Releasing on 0207 4784466. I saw SLOW today and enjoyed it! But am quite shattered by my long day!! Have posted briefly at 126. Murph, if you want to post the news about the video release, please do!

(Tineke) What film is it from again? COW (cheering of women)? Cheering of women! LOL!! Does this help? ;-) It's from the 1983 ZZ Top song "Legs" but it was "she's got legs"...minor change. Bethan: Excellent news re: video - converters cranked up. Am anxious to hear your comments on seeing SLOW.

closing the tags... ;-)

Jennifer is the one who won the "Best Actress" award for P&P and I was pretty p***d off when her name wasn't mentioned. I waited thru the whole series for them to mentioned her name but I guess it was pretty nice to hear Colin Firth's name. I also waited around to see "The English Patient" and Colin looked sooooo good (yummmm).

I waited thru the whole series for them to mentioned her name I attributed it to the fact that they didn't know how to pronounce "Ehle".:-D ~~~~~~ Hey, April is soon...those poor guys at Optimum need to get their money back.

I wish the Ehle contingent stopped moaning on this board... Why don't you start an Ehle thread, so that us Firthists can go there and post about Colin on every other line? ;-P

I wish the Ehle contingent stopped moaning on this board... Why don't you start an Ehle thread Oh yeah...so how come no one complained this summer with all the baseball and crickett comments on this very thread. And when Ben talks about Jennifer , you never say anything....scheeeeech.

Sorry...I forgot to add my smiley.... scheeeeech :-D

It's a whole new ball game on Favorite Man. Colin was #1 to start but already other forces rise against him. Take a few moments of your time and vote for him daily. (If you can vote Chicago style, all the better ... Daley!;-D): http://www.freevote.com/booth/ladyviola Let December be Colin's month...

KJArt, I just noticed that it is Sir Percy against Mr. Darcy!

OK, I've voted, but that green background is a killer. And how about Russell Crowe "who broke all records". And we know how, don't we! And who is Anthony Andrews? Isn't this Favorite Man thing just a microcosm of life? Here's Colin; he's always there, every month, and we're always voting like mad. And some upstart no one ever heard of always comes in #1. He's always #2 b/c of the few, the happy few, the band of droolers, the ones who never desert him. But these little shifters who vote for one guy one month and another the next. I see a book--Where's Colin? On each double page a seething crowd of two-bit actors, always changing--locales, costumes, and especially faces, some recognizable, some just a blur of aquiline noses and square jaws, surrounded by their screaming groupies. As you page through, the most prominent faces keep changing for no obvious reason, and the groupies swarm across the page, thickening and thinning gangs jostling around the hunk du mois. But somewhere in every picture there he is working away and miling gorgeously while around him the Firthettes quietly maintain sites, write fiction, read the source works, and power watch the Oeuvre. You have to look pretty hard to find him, and many people don't bother, but for the ones who do ... well, the rewards are infinite. Do you think this would move on Murph's bookstore? I bet it would go right to number two on the best seller list.

(Cymbeline) I bet it would go right to number two on the best seller list. LOL!! Anthony Andrews?!! What has he done in the last decade or so? How can he have rabid fans on the order of Russell Crowe's. BTW, I would watch out for the Brendan Fraser and Timothy Dalton contingents. The way I look at it, vote Colin in for December and we never have to do it again. Is that reason enough? ;-)

I have hinted at Anthony Andrews being Sir Percy of the Scarlet Pimpernel once before. Personally, I can not remember anything else he has done, but I do suggest you all rent his SP video. You will not be disappointed. I repeat the contest seems to be Sir Percy vs Mr. Darcy. Now for a picture of Colin as Santa, Karen, could you oblige us? That should help to inspire the December vote. :-D

a picture of Colin as Santa Renate should have one at her fingertips. Here's an OK one: BTW, Anthony Andrews was also in Brideshead Revisited a million years ago.

Anthony Andrews was Sebastian in Brideshead Revisted! He was awesome, but granted it was more than a decade ago;)

Jeremy Irons'career took off after Brideshead, Anthony Andrews' didn't. Guess it's luck of the draw. Noticed some indirect promo for SLOW. Some helpful soul had released most of the glossy mags in the Film and Computer sections from their Cellophane covers, so it was possible to browse without buying (Big sign..."Customers are kindly requested not to read magazines" !!) There a shortish articles on Nia Long in two of the film mags (Total Film, and I think, Empire) mostly promoting "The Best Man"(?}, but mentions of SLOW and CF. In one she says how much she enjoyed filming SLOW with Colin Firth. In another, the article says that her new fim is a romance with Brit Heart-throb CF. Nia says "He's great. There's something about him that's very innocent, child-like, I think he's very shy".

Here's two more Santa Colins: Marzipan Murph

All: The About.com British TV Newsletter has all the programs coming this winter on British TV. TOTS is mentioned under ITV's Christmas programs, along with a zillion others. I would post it, but it is long. At the risk of getting slugged by Arami (kidding!), I heard a radio ad today for "Waiting In The Wings," Noel Coward's play starring Bacall and Rosemary Harris. I was thinking that Jen might come to the opening, Evelyn? It's on December 3, I think. Last mention of JE, I promise. Back to CF as Santa.... I have a DVD of TEP and can screen capture the most delicious stuff. Murph

(Murph)Noel Coward's play starring Bacall and Rosemary Harris. I was thinking that Jen might come to the opening, Evelyn? It's on December 3, I think. Last mention of JE, I promise. Meet you on #72 Murph. (And I nevah promise anything.) ~~~ Thanks for all the pics of the season.Loved it when he called Kathryn "sausage".

At the risk of getting slugged by Arami (kidding!) Murph - you are one very special Firthdom fighter and you may post anything you like here.

Alert - an interesting CF/P&P-related discussion has developed on Topic 72.

Did anyone notice Lady Viola's remark that it was nice to see someone she actually liked win? hmmmmmmmm Nia Long seems to have joined a long line of leading ladies who loved working with Colin. Gwenyth Paltrow went on about him in every interview that I saw.

Okay, who is Ioan Gruffudd and how did he get so far ahead in this favorite man poll???? I'm voting as often as I can remember but it's only the first day and this other guy is way ahead suddenly!

I was in there voting at about 2:45 pm central time, when the Horatio Hornblower crowd blew in. I'm convinced they have a way of circumventing the counter or are in collusion with Lady Viola. (Renate: does the host have a way of shutting down the counter or placing unlimited votes him/herself?) When I started voting, IO had 397 votes and CF was in first with 511. When I realized the counter was not working, that's when I wrote down the totals and kept on voting. When it finally stopped me and I "relo ded" to see the new totals, it was IO with 750 and CF with 588. I disconnected and got back in to the fray, and IO was at 808, so I continued voting. When everything got back to normal, IO was at 1022 and CF at 637. There's a way of shutting down the counter. Who knows a programmer in PERL?

In case anyone's interested, Anthony Andres first came to my attention by coming out of nowhere to star in a 13-part series called "Danger--UXB" which was quite popular at the time. He went on to do "Brideshead". I have wondered a couple of times "Whatever happened to ... you know ... what's his face". Why he's suddenly surfaced is beyond me. Has he done something current of which I am not aware? I totally agree with Cymbeline's philosophy on this one, but my true attitude toward the whole thing is Karen's, to wit: The way I look at it, vote Colin in for December and we never have to do it again. Is that reason enough? ;-)

I've found a little note about CF on an Estonian site, and would love to know what they are talking about. I think it is about the internet. This language seems related to Finnish. Elena, do you think you can translate this for us? http://portal.online.ee/article3931.html Filmiuudised Colin Firth ei ole rahul kuulsuse ja internetiga Online - Briti n�itleja Colin Firth kardab oma privaatsuse p�rast, kuna internet annab t�nap�eval praktiliselt k�igile v�imaluse tema kohta nii palju teada saada kui v�imalik, kirjutab WENN. "Shakespeare in Love" staar kurdab, et selline avalik informatsioon v�ib saada ohtlikuks. "Ma arva, et ei ole sobiv piiluda kogu aeg, mida teised teevad," �tles ta. "Ma kohtasin �hel peol �ht t�drukut, kes teadis t�pselt kus ja millal ma s�ndisin, minu venna ja �e nimesid, mis koolis ma k�isin. Ta sai selle k�ik internetist."

So, Renate, you are looking for Colin in all the tongue places. Here's a new project for us--in how many languages has Colin been mentioned. I see a beautiful collage, like a UN Christmas card, but much, much bigger covered with alphabets, characters, glyphs, and in every phrase the words COLIN FIRTH stand out. Title: Master of the Universe. Can't wait to see the translation of your Estonian piece, but you are barking up the wrong tree by asking Elena b/c ODB will never be Finnished (bwah-ha-ha-ha-ha!)

Thanks, Cymbeline, very �funny�. Renate, Finnish is close to Estonian but not close enough for me to understand it. I found a translator though. That text is that famous piece from the Q/A in Hello or what was that paper/magazine a year ago. You know the one that made Ellen take down her FAQ. "He wants to keep his private life to himself and today the internet can serve a lot of information about anybody. It is not appropriate to know what a person is doing all the time, he says. In a party I once met a girl who could name my parents, what schools I went to....the internet is where she got it all�. Aargh

(Karen)I was in there voting at about 2:45 pm central time, when the Horatio Hornblower crowd blew in. Interesting! I have been having a slothful day. Can't quite apply myself so, inspired by Karen's city father (Mayor Daley?), I have been hitting the Lady Viola booth, switching between ISP's I find I can clock up a fair number of votes. I was obviously not alone in voting this am (GMT). Could not help noticing that Colin's fellow countrymen have put on no extra votes to now (2pm GMT). Does this mean that all their backers live to the west of these isles or are they UK supporters who are not prepared o shell out prime rate telephone rates to back their man. BTW, I suspect Lady Viola herself for the sudden flood of Ioan votes.

I've run into this 'disconnected counter' numerous times before. During November, the votes were racking up during the late night hours for us - around midnight. What time is that in Australia? ;-) Well, if IO pulls too far ahead, then I'm hanging it up. I'll try to be there the same time today to see if this becomes a daily thing. Seems strange...I've never been able to place more than 5 votes on Renate's list. But on Lady Viola's, the counter doesn't always work as well.

Does anyone know if this Lady Viola site carries any weight in the real world? I know some poll-type sites do. This one is quite arbitrary and smells of rigged voting and therefore renders any results meaningless. Access Hollywood has been conducting several 'Best of...' polls and admitted on air recently that fan clubs had likely changed the outcome in at least one of them. And we know AH to be a bastion of reporting--for example, they recently broke the story that Michael Jackson had his nose done. Wow! I never knew that! *cue heavy sarcasm*

I hear the sirens--the OT police are coming to take me away. See you in jail, Evelyn! Murph, can you bail us out? Whoopsie, almost forgot... ;-)

Does anyone know if this Lady Viola site carries any weight in the real world? Define real world? ;-) On the moon, she would be weightless.

(Nilee)See you in jail, Evelyn! Murph, can you bail us out? Oh, Nilee....you crack me up.... Ah yes,... Murph ...you have a lot of clout around here. Please, may I run my Jennifer news through you? Oops..I forgot....:-D

Thank you Elena, for the translation. Can't say I'm surprised that it is this unfortunate article - the word "internet" mentioned two times in such a small article was warning enough. I have also found something Russian, better I don't post it at all.

I love to fool around with rhyming, and sent this out to the Firth list last year. I have changed a few words for Drool: ******************************* 'Twas the night before SIL, when all through Firthheaven, Not a person was stirring, not even Lady Karen; The stockings were hung by the great chimney with care In hopes that Lord Wessex soon would be there; The ladies were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of Firths danced in their heads; And Evelyn in her kerchief, and Arami in her cap, Had just settled their brains for a long winter's nap, When out in the courtyard there arose such a clatter, We sprang from our beds to see what was the matter. Away to the window we flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave a luster of midday to objects below, When, what should we see on that night cold and chilly? But a opulent carriage and seven sleek fillies, With a tall dark haired driver so handsome and sexy, We knew in a minute it must be Lord Wexy. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled and shouted, and called them by name: "Now Lizzie! Now Julie! Now Chirsty! now Meg! On, Nancy! On, Katherine, on Viola - shake a leg! To the top of the ramparts! To the top of the wall! Now Dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!" As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky, So up to the Towers the coursers they flew With the carriage full of goodies - And Lord Wessex too. And then, in a twinkling, we heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As we drew in our heads, and were turning around, Down the chimney Lord Wessex came with a bound. He was dressed all in velvet from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of goodies he had on his back, And he looked like the Kingly Head of the Pack. His eyes - how they sparkled, his dimples so keen! His cheeks were like roses, his legs long and lean, His large mobile mouth was drawn up in a grin And the beard on his chin was darker than sin; The candlelight lit his smiling white teeth, And a white ruff encircled his neck like a wreath. He had a small waist, and a whole lot of pep, And he walked with a swaggering, rollicking step. He was elegant, daring, a right handsome old thing, And we laughed when he saw him, and wanted to sing! A wink of his eye, and a twist of his head, Soon gave us to know we had nothing to dread; He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk; And laying his fist against mouth (nothing new!) And giving a nod, up the chimney he flew. He sprang to his carriage, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But we heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight, "I'll see you next year, Luvs, but for now, A Good Night!

And may I say how impressively international we Firth fans are? To get an Estonian translation in a day is something else. Thanks, Elena. Murph (Mary ELLEN Murphy)

Murph...you're the Greatest....First the pic ..now the poem... Thanks...lenyev ~~~~~ (Renate) I have also found something Russian, better I don't post it at all. Aw c'mon, Renate...let's hear it.Might be something new.

and Arami in her cap Mad-cap??? ***** Renate, did it say KO/\UH FUPTb ?

Renate, send me any articles you find in pig latin. I can do Olde PL, Middle PL and modern day. ;-) And thanks Murph for the holiday poem.

LOL. Thanks Murph for that bit of holiday cheer.

The BBC is to screen a recording of Jeffrey Barnard is Unwell with Peter O'Toole as part of their Millenium programmes, wish they would consider doing the same for either 3DOR or TRT. Bethan, how many people were at the showing of SLOW on Tues, I ask so as to gauge whether it will still be playing this week.

Murph, what holiday cheer! Bringing back all those memories of us waiting for our dear Lord Wessex. Merci!

Ann I think Bethan said there were 25 at the SLOW screening . ~~~~~~~ (ann)The BBC is to screen a recording of Jeffrey Barnard is Unwell with Peter O'Toole as part of theirMillenium programmes, wish they would consider doing the same for either 3DOR or TRT. Has anybody written to : alanyentob@bbc.co.uk lately to request they tape and show it? KJArt and I emailed them last year. I have been in touch with the Nationa Archives of Stage Presentations requesting they tape 3 DOR for their archives at the Theatre Museum at Covent Garden....they taped Charles Dance!!

Found this, a full transcript of the Julie Andrews interview by Jonathan Ross on Film99 that was taped and images captured by Arami. Excerpts follow: J: It must feel good to be back on a film set. What was it that drew you to this project? Julie: Oh, that's easy. Lots of things really. It's a wonderful role for a lady. The cast are superb - Stephen Fry, Colin Firth, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Sophie Thompson, Edward Atherton - and the director is a very talented young man that I admire. So, put them all together and it seemed natural to want to do it. J: Could you tell me about the story? Julie: It's about a countess, the lady I play, who owns Marshwood House and all the estates. Her son, Lord Marshwood has long been an admirer of ladies and has had many, many amours but he's really gone off the deep end and fallen in love with a Hollywood star. Her reputation is not superb and he decides he's going to marry her. It takes place in 1954, when things were changing just after the war. She tries very hard to embrace a new concept and new idea. But, knowing that her son is not deeply in love an that it's just a passing whim, she's very anxious that she preserve her nest. It's very witty, very funny. The Hollywood star's ex-boyfriend shows up and I do what I can to stir the pot. It's charming. J: Your co-stars are in awe of you. Julie: Well, I'm very grateful for the way my previous roles have sort of kept going. Nobody could be more unbelievably lucky than I've been. First of all, they are movies that come around again and again and again. It's not just a fashionable thing. Children love them and adults love them too and so, in that respect, I'm very lucky. Jeanne Tripplehorn plays the American star and she's just become a new buddy. We've had tremendous giggles together and have bonded wonderfully. Colin Firth plays my nephew a d we've also had wonderful scenes together. Edward Atherton's the most delicious looking boy and I think he really looks like he could be my son. Sophie Thompson stands a good chance of just walking away with the movie, and maybe an Oscar, you never know. For full interview, go here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/movies/film99/interviews/julieandrews.shtml Arami, do you have the date this was broadcast?

That's not what I heard...though some comments are similar! Might be worth keeping a video in the VCR....the BBC seem to have started advertising their Christmas programmes (Pauline Quirk, yet again. No wonder there's 90% unemployment in Equity!) Perhaps ITV will follow suit and give us a glimpse of CF in TOTS!

If anyone wants to do any voting, now is the time. Counter is off and the IO votes are racking up again.

ET Alert!! On Monday, ET will show the cut scene at the end of SiL where Viola lands in the New World. This would coincide with the release of the collector's edition DVD, which will be released either the 6th or 7th.

Arami, do you have the date this was broadcast? 6th October, I believe. It was obviously cut and edited in places, so she sounded as if she had been shamelessly drooling over the male actors... So, for example, she said "Edward Atherton's the most delicious looking boy", but I certainly don't recall her say "I think he really looks like he could be my son."

Murph, loved the poem, thanks. (Arami)Renate, did it say KO/\UH FUPTb ? Show off! ;-) But we did have a lady from China posting ages ago, didn't we? (KarenR)Renate, send me any articles you find in pig latin. I can do Olde PL, Middle PL and modern day. ;-) What's pig latin? I need a translation of a regular latin piece of verse - the only surviving piece of Julius Caesar's comment on theatre writing. Do you think you could do it, Karen? (Arami)...she sounded as if she had been shamelessly drooling over the male actors... LOL! Another thing I'd love to see :-D

Thanks for the date for the Film99 interview. Perhaps we should call it an "reinterpretation" of Julie Andrews' comments vs. a transcript? ;-) What's pig latin? Sorry to have gotten your hopes up, Gi, but pig latin is a silly language that children use. There appear however to be several people on this board who could manage a real latin translation.

re the Christmas TV schedule, I have a horrible feeling that TTOTS will be pittied again David Copperfield (BBC) and not only that but the second episode of DC., which will make it even more difficult to compete as DC will have an established audience. Oh please make my New Year ITV, and announce that Colin is to play the title role in the forthcoming Flashman series, well I can dream!!

Okay, on the question of what part would I like to see CF take on. Mmm -- well what about everybody's favorite passive-aggressive, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Just think of it, the chance to play two characters who are in essence the same man. Yes, it has been done before. Still it is a great story, and a chance for CF to make a famous character(s) his own; applying the subltety that you ladies have noted to Stevenson's oft adapted tale of repression and depravity, and the nature of good and evil. Actually, the film director/producer Francis Ford Coppolla wanted to do a trilogy of famous horror novels, which had also been done as classic films. The movies were to have been: "Bram Stoker's Dracula", "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein", and "Robert Louis Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde". The first two were produced, but unfortunately Coppola opted not to direct the "Frankenstein" adaptation, resulting in Kenneth Branaugh making a mess of it and pretty much killing the chances of completing the series.

Correction to the above, I have just seen the TV schedules for Xmas and TTOTS goes head to head with David Copperfield (9pm) but the first episode not the second. ....Pam Ferris stars ...with Colin Firth, as we expected, no mention of Jodhi May, which seems a bit unfair.

Well, I hope viewers aren't disappointed and switch off! I also hope the next role ITV offered to CF will be more than one scene/10 minutes long (And BTW, I think the way to go for all good British actors is theatre and reputable high budget television drama. The odds are stacked against them in the movie business, and small Brit movies, irrespective of quality, mainly disappear) Choices Direct have just sent me their latest catalogue supplement. TOTS is listed as available for sale on 7 February 2000, price �12.99. You can order via their website http://wwww.choicesdirect.co.uk. There's no pic.

http://www.choicesdirect.co.uk

And there is "free shipping" worldwide for a limited time on Internet orders. Fabulous. Still we need to find out when (not if) it will be shown in the US.

Inspired by Bethan, I have found that Turn of the Screw will be available on video in the US in April 2000 from our buddies at WGBH (Masterpiece Theatre). That must be when it is scheduled for broadcast too. :-D http://www.wgbh.org/wgbh/pages/masterpiecetheatre/shop.html#comingsoon

Ah, there you are, things are moving on the video front...MLSF in January (US), TOTS and SLOW in April!! One advantage of made for TV dramas is that they seem to come out almost simultaneously on video. BTW, on MLSF, I recently saw a review (a good one!) from Newfoundland! It's certainly taking the long and winding road to the UK! Have you followed up your lead on DQ, Karen? If it's scheduled for a TV release it should be any time now....TV films are normally broadcast soon after completion. If they're aiming for a theatrical release (:-(), well it's anyone's guess...I just don't see a movie about an idealistic man recovering from a nervous breakdown, a dysfunctional Scottish family and a bus company, being big in the multiplexes! Evelyn, could you repeat the email for contacting the BBC about 3DOR. Thanks! Ann, when did you see the Baz B. item about CF/H-enery Higgins and My Fair Lady. Was it recently or some time ago (ie years ago!)? He'd make a good HH...there was always something of the overgrown schoolboy in the role.

Bethan, it must have been over ayear ago I read about CF playing Higgins in MFL, and it was also on the TheatreNet website as being a possibility. However, I have since read recently on that same site that Johnathan Pryce is the favourite for the role, Cameron MacIntosh? is to produce.

(Bethan)Evelyn, could you repeat the email for contacting the BBC about 3DOR. Thanks! I went for the Top Banana....but if it gets bounced back, I have others... alanyentob@bbc.co.uk

Just to let you know that I like this guy .... found myself going back to Karen's Londinium page again and again ;-) http://www.spring.net/~KarenR/cfimages/londinium/allen.jpg

My brain melted as well the rest of me

Thanks for the info Karen. I shall be checking my Masterpiece Theater lineup diligently. Get out and vote Lady Viola has AA coming up fast.

Bethan, the official BBC Scotland line on DQ is still "no date scheduled." I did get a cute response back from someone there just recently. She said, "No transmission date at present but as a Colin Firth fan I will be watching out for it." [no kidding] OK, now I'll go after the other lead... there's only so much rejection I can take from that bunch! ;-)

(Karen)"No transmission date at present but as a Colin Firth fan I will be watching out for it." [no kidding] Nice goin' Karen...but how about recruiting that girl for Drool :-D

I am told that IBM is circulating the following virus alert: If you receive an email titled "It Takes Guts to Say Jesus" DO NOT OPEN IT. It will erase everything on your hard drive, and there is no remedy for it. Beware. Let others know - just in case.

I have to apologize to Karen for something that I did this afternoon. I will never post another URL. That way I will not get into trouble.

Just to say briefly that some of this week's TV magazines are be previewing the Christmas programmes. TOTS seems to be up against the Big Film (ie Tom Cruise "Mission Impossible") at 9.00pm, not David Copperfield (Part 2) which shows at 6.30. Lots of promotional stuff (interviews with actors) for David Copperfield. Zilch (so far)for TOTS, but it is definitely being used as ITV's "big gun" for the Xmas period. Just says "with Colin Firth". Marked as one to watch. I think that DC was produced with a view to capturing the Xmas market, whereas TOTS wasn't. ITV are using CF's name. In a way, this is complimentary, but I think a lot of people will expect to see him in the lead! DQ...thanks for trying Karen. I think this will definitely be heading for a theatrical release, otherwise they would have scheduled it by now. But it will also be shown on TV. I noticed that Bertolucci's "Beseiged", which was a BBC Film, and was shown in the summer in the UK cinema, was on TV over the weekend. I watched part of it because it featured a relationship between an Englishman and an African (and got very good reviews). I thought the opening shots in "Africa" were most unconvincing, and the acti n was slow and ponderous. But if actors do serious roles, and the director is well known, they are automatically taken seriously. Light romantic comedy is often dismissed by critics (CF take note!). Call me shallow, but I actually preferred SLOW...I thought the central relationship was more convincing, but unfortunately it didn't have the Bertolucci imprimatur!

Bethan, the BBC Scotland respondent (also fan of...) has said she will let know as soon as she hears anything. Evelyn said I should steer her to Spring! ;-) I've also sent something off to someone with the production. Maybe I'll hear back, maybe I won't. :-( About Beseiged, that was Thandie Newton (from Beloved), and the film did not get good reviews here. I remember Ebert and another woman talking about it from Cannes and they disliked it immensely. Don't think it played hardly anywhere here. Winter has seen it as I recall and she liked it a lot or so she posted elsewhere.

(Bethan), TOTS seems to be up against the Big Film (ie Tom Cruise "Mission Impossible") at 9.00pm,Just says "with Colin Firth". ITV are using CF's name. In a way, this is complimentary, but I think a lot of people will expect to see him in the lead! I wonder if people will complain. We know he has only 10 minutes, but the regular audience will probably sit there waiting to see Colin again. It is bad luck to be matched up against "Mission Impossible". What day is TOTS going to be shown? We are relying on snappies taken from the TV. ;-D Will be waiting for your report. Don Q, I thank you for trying, Karen.

ITV are using CF's name. In a way, this is complimentary, but I think a lot of people will expect to see him in the lead! I don't think it's complimentary...I think it's exploitation of Colin's name.. What's more, this is v. disingenuous of ITV to do that. And will only cause disenchantment among the fans who will expect to see him for more than ten minutes.

Carrying on the discussion of Oscar nominations from Odds and Ends, now I've forgotten all the postings I was going to refer to, but someone said that Geoffrey Clifton was a scene stealer, and I completely agree. And someone said a couple of weeks ago, talking about scenes they always cut when trying to make room for commercials, that the great scene in the cab was what drove the whole action--impels the plane crash which leads to the cave, etc. And it's his brilliance in that and his convincingness (is that a word?) as a loving husband that makes the story a tragedy (and incidentally I believe what drove people to say why would KST leave CF for RF0--wasn't believable). And for that I think he should have gotten a nomination. Also--saw Ebert review TEOTA this evening. Thumbs down from him though not from his guest (I think I'm remembering correctly) Anyhow, biased though I may be and condensed though the clips were, I just don't find RF attractive and therefore convincing. Firthette rule #1 was in full play as I watched it.

There is a very small picture of Colin in TTOTS in the Xmas Edition of "What's on TV", with P.F. and the two children. I will try and get a copy but not everyone is selling the 18th-31st Dec. copy yet. I should have bought it yesterday but was in a hurry!! (his hair is quite long and he is standing Darcy pose with his hands crossed behind his back) Re DQ, I am a bit concerned about ever seeing DQ, as if you go to the BBC Scotland website and scroll down to all the dramas they have upcoming, none of them have as yet been seen on our screens, and many have household names in them. Now if Robson Green was to make a drama, it would be on our screens six months later. Oh stop it Ann!!

Evelyn, I agree with you entirely...."exploitational" is the more appropriate word! I've just returned from and early morning visit to get milk (son has returned from uni with 6 friends!) and noticed that the new Christmas TV mags now have hit the stands. Barely had a chance to browse, but Radio Times says that TOTS is a terrific adaptation, mentions CF, and says that the governess may be in a state of sexual frenzy brought on by her flirtatious attraction to the Master. TV Times is more honest and says that "Sadly we only get a glimpse of CF as the charismatic Master". Only pic is of Pam Ferris and Jodhi May (which should strike readers as odd...why no pic of the "star"?. Oh well, maybe it will provoke an outburst of "why can't CF be offered bigger/better parts!" I think a lot of viewers (who don't have access to the Internet!) will be puzzled to see him in a cameo, after playing Darcy. On better roles...."The end of the Affair"...I must admit when I read about the casting of this, it gave me quite a pang...two potentially marvellous roles, the lover (inevitably RF) and the sympathetic cuckolded husband. For once, I wouldn't have minded if CF had played the cuckold. I would like to see CF cast in a role where he can express real depth of feeling! Having said this, I caught a glimpse of a preview of TEOTA on CNN, and wasn't overly impressed by the clips or the love scene....very artifici l. Seemed to be a lot of emphasis by the commentator on the fact there is nudity (is this the way they sell movies nowadays?. (BTW no nudity in SLOW..he seems to prefer to keep his clothes on!) But CF deserves a leading role in a prominent film or major TV drama!!!

Don't despair Ann, we'll definitely see DQ. It's just that a theatrical release (why?) always seems the preferred option. And Aaargh!!! Having mentioned TEOTA, I open the Times, and there's a big feature on it. I've only just got over a surfeit of "Onegin"!! Let's hope 2000 sees CF in a serious dramatic lead role on screen (can't always go to RF, surely?):-)

Let's hope 2000 sees CF in a serious dramatic lead role on screen (can't always go to RF, surely?):-) And he just won Best European Actor, I am sure those parts will still be going his way. I am only hoping that his commitment to do theatre will leave some of them open for Colin. :-) (Bethan), Radio Times says that TOTS is a terrific adaptation, mentions CF, and says that the governess may be in a state of sexual frenzy brought on by her flirtatious attraction to the Master. And it only lasts for 10 minutes! (Ann), (his hair is quite long and he is standing Darcy pose with his hands crossed behind his back) I hope we can see it very soon.

(Ann) his hair is quite long As long as in Valmont or more shoulder length? Can't wait to see the pic. The listing at BBC Scotland is a relatively *new* listing (as of mid-November), which surprised me also and prompted me to contact them again. I do think they are still trying for a theatrical release, especially after the nice review from Cork. Bethan, you asked "why"? More money of course - a better return potentially for BBC Scotland on its investment.

For anyone with a scanner (and who can use a scanner) (Arami?) there's a good pic of CF as The Master in the Xmas issue of TV Quick, page 10. (Can send copy if needed) He looks just like Darcy, dark curly hair, sideboards, dark jacket, silk waistcoat with watch fob, white shirt which looks opened necked (no tie), grey flannel trousers. Quote.."The young governess is also quite taken with her new employer Colin Firth (aren't we all?)" I could see nothing really worth watching in the Xmas programme (apart from TOTS!). "Mission Impossible" is without a doubt the BBC's Big Film, and TOTS is pitted directly against it. Moon, I read about the European awards. Catherine Z-J got Best actress (People's award) for Entrapment and Ray Winstone and Rupert Everett(AIH) were the other nominees, I think, for Best Actor.

FYI, about the European awards. There were the Best Actor and Best Actress awards (Fiennes and actress from "All About My Mother") and then there were the People's awards (Connery and Zeta-Jones), in which the public got to vote, a measure of popularity with movie-going public.

I think ITV should hear our comments about giving Colin a cameo-plus role in TTOTS, and then touting him as the star. (Hey, that's only eight minutes more than Secret Garden!). Why can't we email them and request a bonafide starring role for ODB. Does anybody have that email? These channels with commercials listen to their viewers. We can tell them that BBC is producing DQ. ~~~~~~~

Also a quote about/from CF in Radio Times on TOTS..."CF makes a welcome return to costume drama, starring (!!) in TOTS" Then he comments something along the lines of liking ghost stories.."they're perfect for wintry evenings..create a sense of chill and provoke the imagination". There's a cartoon of CF as The Master. Didn't buy a copy.

the governess may be in a state of sexual frenzy brought on by her flirtatious attraction to the Master. All right. Confess! Which one of us playing the role under a nom du theatre? welcome return to costume drama Welcome to whom? Wouldn't it be nice if they could say ... a welcome return to a lead role in a meaty drama with plenty of scope both for his comic talents and his highly expressive dramatic ability. And finally, who knows what his next projects will be? Someone said all his films are off the shelf, in one way or another, and 3DOR will be over in a few weeks. What's waiting in the wings? Is he contemplating a nice long dramatic piece involving many interior and exterior scenes all set in the same small northern Virginia town and for which an unknown local woman of a certain age is needed as the perfect foil to his role as handsome British immigrant seeking the kind of really satisfying mature relat onship that only an older woman can provide? Sounds like a screenplay to me.

Bethan, that must have been the picture I say of The Master, are his hands behind his back and is there an awful picture of PF , sorry Pam but it really is awful!!(I get confused between TV Quick & What's On TV). On the other hand I don't think my picutre was near the front so perhaps it is What's On - anybody following this?

(Cymbeline) Carrying on the discussion of Oscar nominations from Odds and Ends, now I've forgotten all the postings I was going to refer to, but someone said that Geoffrey Clifton was a scene stealer, and I completely agree. I thought Colin was excellent as Geoffrey but it was not an Oscar-worthy role. Face it, ODB doesn't have enough clout in tinsel town to receive a nod for such a small part. He's not even mentioned in the TNT English Patient ads! It certainly is misrepresentation for ITV to tout Colin as the star of TOTS but I find myself enjoying it nonetheless. I'd love to see any pictures (especially that cartoon) if it's at all possible. Thanks.

Bethan, that must have been the picture I say of The Master, are his hands behind his back and is there an awful picture of PF No, this is a different photo. He's standing behind Jodhi May, who is seated on a plush looking chair.He has his hands in his pockets and is staring at her. There are gilt framed paintings on the wall behind him. If you have the book "The making of Pride and Prejudice," he looks just like Mr Darcy on page 104 (without the high collar). Same colour waistcoat. So, who needs a scanner? :-) As I said I'll gladly post the pic to any expert scanner. Elder Son has gone away with friends, otherwise I would ask him to talk me through the whole process of scanning, It's about time I mastered it! Eileen, the cartoon wasn't very recognisable..emphasises the line of his jaw and the sideboards. It certainly is misrepresentation for ITV to tout Colin as the star of TOTS It's all part of the ratings battle. It's probably just not the same in the US where you have so many channels, but for most people in the UK, the choice for Christmas viewing (if you haven't very sensibly switched off!!)is still between BBC and ITV. And the figures are always published as though it's a contest. Colin (and his cameo appearance) is up against the might of Tom Cruise and Mission Impossible, and it will no doubt be reported in terms of Darcy v. Hollywood megastar. And the bonuses of ITV exe utives will partly depend on the outcome! Although I must say that Pam Ferris and Jodhi May are both very good actors, and there's a first class production team involved, so it doesn't all hinge on CF.

Thanks Bethan, I had better take a look at TV Quick tomorrow, then.

Hmmm, page 104 you say...nice ;-) Arami, how long does it take to go to the store and buy those magazines? We're waiting. (Ann) but for most people in the UK, the choice for Christmas viewing...is still between BBC and ITV. And the figures are always published as though it's a contest. Colin (and his cameo appearance) is up against the might of Tom Cruise and Mission Impossible, and it will no doubt be reported in terms of Darcy v. Hollywood megastar. Sorry, but I don't see the draw for Mission Impossible. Running a movie (of dubious popularity) on television against original programming shouldn't be feared. I saw Mission Impossible once. Never had any desire to see it again, on television or on tape. Everyone has seen MI. Event programming would be showing Titanic. People can watch that one over and over again...

there's a good pic of CF as The Master in the Xmas issue of TV Quick I'll scan all these pics tomorrow.

Good gal! Thanks!

Mission Impossible was a terible movie IMHO. I am not a Tom Cruse fan, I dont think he can act worth diddely squat.

I second that, Lucie, very over-rated, IMO.

Today I heard the results of survey of who is the actor with whom you would most like to spend New Year's Eve. The winner was -- Tom Cruise. Yeah, I know, tell me about it. Now of course I know who would be the winner among the members on this list. But some of us might get trampled in the rush to kiss CF at midnight.

I agree with Karen that Mission Impossible should pose no threat at all to TTOTS. It's been out on video for who knows how long-- must be at least a year. Anyone who hasn't seen it by now probably has no interest in doing so. RE: Tom Cruise. I've enjoyed him in a number of films, such as Born On The Fourth Of July, The Color Of Money, Interview With the Vampire, Rain Man, Jerry Maguire, Eyes Wide Shut. He's more than held his own, IMO, in a wide variety of things, with top-notch directors, cast, etc. I think people sometimes discount him because of his looks. Sort of like when CF gets dismissed as a heart-throb in a wet shirt.;-)

(CherylB) Now of course I know who would be the winner among the members on this list. But some of us might get trampled in the rush to kiss CF at midnight. I consider you my friends, but I'm sorry. In a case like this it's every woman for herself. You won't find me at the bottom of that pile. ;-)

(Cymbeline) that the great scene in the cab was what drove the whole action--impels the plane crash which leads to the cave, etc. And it's his brilliance in that and his convincingness (is that a word?) as a loving husband that makes the story a tragedy. And for that I think he should have gotten a nomination. He was utterly divine and a better example of silent anguish would be hard to find. IMO though his role was too small for consideration. If he were very famous or if he did that car scene tearing up the seat and foaming at the mouth, perhaps he would have had a chance. (Yes, I'm kidding 'cause I know we're glad he did it the way he did.) Is it just me or does it seem very dry in here? I'll bet a picture or two of the Master will create a little welcome precipitation.

For anyone who cares to direct her comment to ITV re: the Dearth of Firth in TTOTS .. http://www.itv.co.uk/site.php3 I asked them to make amends and acquire a project with a suitable starring role.

Has anyone else had a problen getting votes registered at Lady Viola's booth today? I keep getting the sign that they are busy and reload but reload just gets the same thing. The count is the same as when I went to bed last night.

Let's not forget, little Tommy Boy has not only been nominated, he's had several roles where many people thought he should. I'm getting the feeling that he and Nicole are doing the big budget films just to finance other projects of their own. Also, Cruise approached the makers of Magnolia and wanted to appear in it for nothing. OK, back to our boy: Here's the picture Bethan mentioned from the "Making of Book" while we wait for the new TTOTS glimpses:

Here's a quotation from Wings of Fame that seems to illustrate just what we've all been talking about. For those who haven't seen it, be warned--I suppose it qualifies as a spoiler, but I don't want to put it on the spoiler topic b/c it fits here. For those of you who have seen it, you remember that ODB reads this. But for one who wants to become a good actor discipline, sensitivity, intelligence, and good looks are not enough. In order to become a really great actor, you have to be born one. But it does not necessarily follow that an excellent actor is also a famous one. In order to be a star you have to have an audience of millions. I'm sure all of us here agree that ODB possesses the first four requisites in full measure. There cannot be two opinions on that subject. And I imagine that we all also agree that he was born to be a really great actor. His early work confirms that. When P&P was released, he gained the audience of millions and became a star, but since then he has been moved about a bit from the luxurious second floor to other less satisfactory accommodations--so fleeting is fame. Now why is it that TC and old Kevin C stner make dogs but continue to be superstars? One reason, which they have in common with RF if I understand Onegin's origins correctly, is that they make their own movies, at least sometimes. This CF doesn't do; he is dependent on what the market sends to him. Segue to a repeat of my earlier question. Those of you with fingers on the pulse, what are the next projects? Anyone know anything?

Sorry not to have been running to the newsagents to pick up copies of TV guides and pictures of CF. I do have a scanner but I also have a slipped disc! Groan! Great timing, just before Christmas. In spite of my comments on #126, I had also planned another trip to SLOW. I thought it might improve on further acquaintance. But alas.

You poor thing Allison, as you say not very good timing, hope it soon gets better. However, it sounds as if we shall soon be able to buy the video of SLOW. Lucie, The Voting Booth seems to be working again today, Mari, as you suggested I havde written to ITV, did you mention anything about the Flashman Series, I still live in hope. re TC, I'm sorry but I hated EWS, my hubby and I have never been so bored and it just went on and on.

Ann - EWS? I'm a bit slow this morning, but I can't make any association here.

(Cymbeline), TC and old Kevin Costner make dogs but continue to be superstars? One reason, which they have in common with RF if I understand Onegin's origins correctly, is that they make their own movies, at least sometimes. This CF doesn't do; he is dependent on what the market sends to him. I have stated repeatedly, that Colin should search out his own projects and buy the rights. I guess the money went to the new house. Allison, I hope you get well soon! EWS= Eyes Wide Shut, the Kubrick film.

Sorry to hear about your back, Allison. Rest and take those pain pills. As Ann said, you'll get SLOW on video soon enough and can rewind to your heart's content. ;-)

(Cymbeline) he is dependent on what the market sends to him. Or what he seeks out, auditions for, accepts...better not rely on just what they send you. ~~~~~ Bummer about your back, Allison, :-( Can you still watch Colin vids...?

(Bethan) Eileen, the cartoon wasn't very recognisable..emphasises the line of his jaw and the sideboards. I'd like to see it anyway. Don't think I've seen a cartoon of ODB before. It certainly is misrepresentation for ITV to tout Colin as the star of TOTS (Bethan) It's all part of the ratings battle. Goes without saying. It's probably just not the same in the US where you have so many channels It's not the same in the US...it's worse. I'd wager the ITV execs learned their programming strategies over here! Cymbeline, I don't think there's been any recent intelligence on Colin's post-Donmar projects. Hope you're feeling better, Allison. The new treatment plan for back ailments is as follows: 1. bedrest with a pillow under knees 2. anti-inflammatory and pain medication 3. heat pad as tolerated 4. watch CF videos one after another until symptoms abate. There! All better :-)

Another deer told me to post this here ;-) http://firth.com/tots/tots1.htm

There! All better :-) Thank you all for your good wishes and helpful hints. I have found lying on the floor (firm mattress!) and watching Tumbledown good therapy. Watching ODB writhing in agony quite takes my mind off my own small aches and pains;-)

Oh, Renate! More therapy! Wonderful. Thanks for posting the TTOTS picture. And are thanks due to Arami too?

It was intentional, it was intentional. All for suspense. ;-) Allison, wish you to get better soon.

MOSTLY due to Arami. She scanned it in a hurry, and sent it to me to load it up, but I have no idea from which publication this is, and I hope my guess that the woman is Jodhi May was correct. Allison - did the therapy work already? ;-) Do you hear him whisper behind you "Is there anything I can to do relieve your suffering?"

(Cymbeline)But it does not necessarily follow that an excellent actor is also a famous one. In order to be a star you have to have an audience of millions. Exactly, ODB is an excellent actor but not as a famous as those stars. I'd like to add to that last sentence, in order to be a star you have to have some kind of luck. How many stars get their overnight fame just because one great film? So I'd say that it does not necessarily follow that a star is also an excellent actor. Thanks Renate, I love the picture!

Renate and Arami, thank you! Did you notice the twinkle, twinkle little stars behind him? "Is the lookout he's behind you" part of the ad? He looks so pensive, and a bit worried. I can not wait to hear your reports on TOTS.

You know, I like Jodhi May. She was fantastic in this British American miniseries where she was in a cult. Prunella Scales was her father and David Warner was her father. James Earl Jones played a deprogrammer. It was excellent and she was very good. She may do well as the governess. I watched the Innocents (based on TOTS) with my daughter, the movie before that was The Ghost and Mrs Muir. I hadn't seen the Innocents and WOW, what a creepy movie! Even Rebecca (desensitized at a young age *sigh*), as creeped out and slept with me... well she still is;)

MOSTLY due to Arami. She scanned it in a hurry, and sent it to me to load it up, but I have no idea from which publication this is, and I hope my guess that the woman is Jodhi May was correct. Allison - did the therapy work already? ;-) Do you hear him whisper behind you "Is there anything I can to do relieve your suffering?"

"*#%X*$�&#!!!" Had I ever learned......

Thanks 3 Deers for the picture....Breathtaking. But I bet that's the only suit he wears. ~~~~ "This pospective patron proved a gentleman, a bachelor in the prime of life,such a figure as had never risen, save in a dream or an old novel, before a fluttered , anxious girl out of a Hampshire vicarage....He was handsome and bold and pleasant, off-handed and gay and kind. He struck her, inevitably as gallant and splendid, but what took her most of all and gave her the courage she afterwards showed was that he put the whole thing to her as a favour an obligation he should gratefully incur. She figured him as rich, ...saw him all in a glow of high fashion, of good looks, of expensive habits, of charming ways with women...." TTOTS...Henry James Of course Nick Dear's script might be different.

Thanks Renate & Arami, is it my imagination or does he seem to have a lot of hair and sideburns!!

Thanks Arami and Renate for the TOTS treat. He is mentioned in TV Times ,"an all too brief glimpse" ??--- will check that, and of the two photos featured, it comes as no surprise to see they are "Masterless". Allison, imagine the very gentlest and restoring of back massages and those exquisite digits----- you should be feeling better already! Take care.

Do we think he is sporting a hair extension? Maybe Gi has been secretly working on him!! Evelyn, you have some great theories on this subject!

Let's see'm side by side: Isn't this one from TV Quick? Hands are in pocket, not behind the back. And didn't you say, Ann, that the one from What's on TV, had the kids in it as well?

Aha!! Hair is parted to other side and sideburns might be longer. Thanks Arami and Renate for getting this put up so quickly.

Karen. .. from What's On TV had the kids in it as well Yes that's right Karen, but its not a very good picture of Colin, he is in the background, its certainly not as good as the TV quick picture and the children arn't very clear. Talking of children, the young lad who plays Oliver Twist in Alan Bleasdale's adaption which is on TV at the moment, is excellent and if Oliver Twist comes to the US, I highly recommend it. I am sorry I can't say the same for W&D.

Aha! That's it...the very photo. Excellent team work, Renate and Arami! Allison, so sorry to hear about the slipped disc. Back problems are a nightmare...but they do go away, and normal life resumes. Are your movements very restricted at the moment? On SLOW...one way to guarantee that you will enjoy it (although admittedly not possible for you at the moment!)...get up at 5am, travel to London for exhausting all day seminar, give highly nerve-racking Power-Point presentation, sneak out 15 minutes early, rush to tube, get lost, arrive at cinema totally frazzled, gaze at gorgeous dimpled man looking completely gorgeous throughout movie, don't concentrate too much on the "plot" or fret about why he's not going to get a BAFTA, or why RF gets all the best oles, just sit back, relax and go with the picuresque and undemanding flow....:-) I have stated repeatedly, that Colin should search out his own projects and buy the rights. I guess the money went to the new house. (Moon) Moon, I just don't think Colin is in the right Big Money league for this. For example the rights to NH's "About a Boy" went (to Robert de Niro) for �1.25million. CF hasn't made it into Hollywood, nor does he have a lucrative TV contract, and I wouldn't think that any of his post P&P projects have been big earners...he'll be out of pocket after 3DOR, BBC Scotland only pay jobbing actor rates, and I remember reading that the budget for all salaries (cast and crew) for MLSF was �300,000....a weekly pay check for a Megastar! But I agree, actors with financial clout and bankability can control their own careers, rather than take what is offered. Cymbeline, you're quite right about the different levels of stardom. I guess (as must be perfectly obvious from my frequent tetchy comments) that I'd love CF to be up there with RF...to have his multi-million bankability, choice of leading roles, career flexibilty and unassailable reputation (despite a certain major turkey)!! Well, you never know! As to what's next for CF...well, I hope that 3DOR may remind some well-known directors/producers that he can act! Laura, I agree, Jodhi May is a very good actress...she was impressive in "The Last of the Mohicans"

(Moon) Did you notice the twinkle, twinkle little stars behind him? Sure did. Meant to mirror the stars in our eyes when we see ODB, I suppose. Oh, but the hair! Neither the top or the sides look real. Too pouffy! I'm sure Gi would have given him a more natural look. Sure hope he doesn't look so "permed" throughout his 10 minutes. But I bet that's the only suit he wears. LOL, Evelyn. Thanks, Renate and Arami for the peek.

I'll see if I can do some more scanning tomorrow, I had to go out this evening and had no time to do more. Though that cartoon is not very good imo. ODB is an excellent actor but not as a famous as those stars Don't forget that he said that wanting to be famous equals being deranged... and he craves normalcy in his life... if Oliver Twist comes to the US, I highly recommend it... I can't say the same for W&D. Oliver Twist According To Bleasdale has already been criticized for a variety of inconsistencies and puzzling details... Bleasdale takes some liberties which may not matter so much if one doesn't know one's Dickens... The production (acting, costumes, scenery) is very good indeed. W&D is also produced breathtakingly well, it has an air of P&P Revisited in that one imagines that Pemberley and its inhabitants must be somewhere not far away (after all, the time difference is only about 30 years on)... but I'm still waiting for anything in the story to grab and shake me - either by the throat or by the heart. It also lacks the sort of irony and sharp wit which we know from Jane Austen's prose and especially her wonderful, juicy dialogues. It's all very pedestrian and mundane... Quite atchable if you like that period, but don't expect fireworks. And worst of all, not one dark, handsome and mysterious bloke to clap your eyes on. ;-)

That should be "watchable". And another thing - good dancing scenes! It seems that they used the same dance group as in P&P, I think I recognized a few "background" people from the Netherfield ball. Still another observation: P&P was criticized (lightly ;-)...) for using too much light in "after dark" interior scenes: this production is visibly better lit, the interiors are suitably darker.

high fashion, of good looks, of expensive habits, of charming ways with women... Yum! Yum! But is his hair dark again? I wish they'd play him as the red head he is. I love his coloring.

Jodhi May is a very good actress. But she sure is ugly.No couch-casting there.

(Bethan), Moon, I just don't think Colin is in the right Big Money league for this. For example the rights to NH's "About a Boy" went (to Robert de Niro) for �1.25million. I do not expect Colin to afford to spend so much. There are lots of books by new writers, or unknown writers that might have something for him. He has to be on the lookout. The rights to some stories are affordable. I read a book two years ago called The Reader by a German writer and there are others out there. Colin should put some time and money into developing a project. It is about time!

Jodhi May is a very good actress. But she sure is ugly.No couch-casting there. ] Oh I don't think she's ugly. Plain looking in the Jane Eyre sense, but she looked quite beautiful in The Last of the Mohicans. I forgot about that one! She was great in that. So sad though;( I hope we get TOTS here! I like creepy (just not slice & dice)!

Laura, Masterpiece Theatre will be showing TOTS in April, most likely.

Laura, Masterpiece Theatre will be showing TOTS in April, most likely. ] Woohoo! Now all I need is cable so I have decent reception! Oh just thinking about it is giving me the wiggins! Those evil children. Who are playing the children? Just stock British children? Has any Americans bought the DVD Shakes in Love? Wanna know if it's decent to buy? (don't have DVD player, but am thinking of buying one in 2000). I've only seen Shakes in Love once! Haven't even rented it! Bad Laura! I think my daughter would like it. Except for that one scene, I don't think there's anything else that is bad in it. Well, just an update on the Laura front, still dealing with Mono, but getting progressively better. Outlook on life is better too! Yeah. (strange tho as it's the holiday season which instantaneously depresses me!) So to all Happy Holidays and Y2K bug it's a big bust! :) Happy Colin Firth viewing, like I do every Christmas Eve, I wrap, drink wine and watch all six hours of P&P! (have been doing that for the past three years now!)

Sorry to hear about your back Allison. I know how painful a bad back can be. How did you slip your disk anyhow. Maybe you can get some help from Larry Bird, a bad back is what took him out of basketball.

From a friend who is happy to share: MLSF is now playing in Richmond, Virginia. Also now in Raleigh, North Carolina. Was in Durham and Chapel Hill last week; not sure if it's still there.

Oh, there's one lucky lady here!!! SLOW is playing at the Showcase in Bristol. And it's still at the ABC Panton St. and in Peckham from what I can see. Gone from Manchester.

(Heide) Oh, but the hair! Neither the top or the sides look real. Too pouffy! My thoughts, too. Perhaps it's due to some shadowing (particularly the top). (Bethan) Jodhi May is a very good actress...she was impressive in "The Last of the Mohicans" Ah, yes, the movie that gave new meaning to the phrases "watch that last step, it's a killer" and "eat your heart out." She's not ugly, Evelyn. I expect 'Miss' won't be a flattering (looks-wise) role, though. (Mari) MLSF is now playing in Richmond, Virginia... I see the wagon train has made it back to the east coast--closer to GB, Ann! In a few months, go to the seaside and look for bottles with film inside. I understand the Atlantic tide is very strong this time of year :-P

Bethan, was it you who would like to see Colin in the forthcoming film Enigma, well I don't think it is going to happen as according to Baz Bambigoyne in The Daily Mail, Dougray Scott has been cast for the role.

Baz Bambigoyne in The Daily Mail, Dougray Scott has been cast for the role. He's hot. Saw him in "This Year's Love"...couldn't understand a word he said. (Eileen)She's not ugly, Evelyn. I expect 'Miss' won't be a flattering (looks-wise) role, though. You mean she was cast for the role because of her "unflattering looks"?

(Heavy Evie) You mean she was cast for the role because of her "unflattering looks"? No. But they won't go out of their way to doll her up either. I haven't seen her in anything but Last of the Mohicans, in which she played terrified very well. Seems to suit this role. Have a nice weekend! Nileee ;-P

Hi everyone! I just realized that today... I think... is my "I met Colin Firth" anniversary!

Congrats, Winter!! And MANY happy returns!! ;-D

(Heide) Oh, but the hair! Neither the top or the sides look real. Too pouffy! My thoughts, too. Perhaps it's due to some shadowing (particularly the top). In the original photo in the magazine, there's a lot of dark shadowing and blurring of edges. Jodhi May's hair is naturally fairish, but looks dark here. Ditto, perhaps Colin. W&D...Quite watchable if you like that period, but don't expect fireworks. And worst of all, not one dark, handsome and mysterious bloke to clap your eyes on. (Arami) Apparently Sue Birtwhistle and Andrew Davies had carte blanche from the BBC to choose and adapt whatever they wanted....I was a bit disappointed that they couldn't find something to accommodate a dark (well, auburn!)handsome bloke. I agree with you and Ann about "Oliver Twist" though...and without reservation I think CF should be aiming for major roles in good TV drama. Forget small British films...definitely not the way forward! Mark Darcy is OK though (Sales for the BJ sequel have reached �1million in 3 weeks) Colin should put some time and money into developing a project. It is about time! (Moon) Even if he could afford the rights for some unknown work, the next stage...getting financial backing...is very difficult. RF got �10 million from a US backer for "Onegin" on the strength of his Oscar nom for TEP. So far "Onegin" has made �350,000 in the UK, and after 2 weeks is not showing north of Birmingham. It's a very tough market even when you get the financial backing. But I'd like to see Colin networking...Alan Yentob, for starters! SLOW is playing at the Showcase in Bristol. And it's still at the ABC Panton St. and in Peckham from what I can see. (Karen) Hey, it's made it into the third week in London! I rang Optimim to ask if it was still showing, and they said in London, Bristol and Manchester! I think there are literally only three prints, which hopefully may work their way round the country! In a few months, go to the seaside and look for bottles with film (MLSF) inside. I understand the Atlantic tide is very strong this time of year :-P (Eileen) LOL! It's showing in Newfoundland and somewhere called L... Valley (forget the name) over Christmas. If only Harvey had forked out for a few more prints we might have seen it earlier! Bethan, was it you who would like to see Colin in the forthcoming film Enigma (Ann) I was keen because of the Tom Stoppard script, but the last adaptation of a novel by Robert Harris -"Fatherland"- was a flop (no theatrical release) and "Enigma" is mostly about code breaking by Cambridge academics, interesting (sometimes)to read, but not very riveting on screen perhaps. Robert Harris is Nick Hornby's brother-in-law (networking!)But it's a decent, serious lead role. Hmmm.

I rang Optimim to ask if it was still showing, and they said in London, Bristol and Manchester! I think there are literally only three prints, which hopefully may work their way round the country! Keep us posted, there's a good gal, huh? :-) Ta!

And here's the cartoon: http://www.firth.com/tots/totscartoon.htm or, if I succeed, here's the pic: That's why *I* call ugly No similarity whatsoever.

Now, that's what I call pouffy hair! ;-) No similarity whatsoever. Yeah, they missed the dimples.

But he's not smiling here. Do the dimples show all the time, then? Wouldn't that mean he's puffy as well?

I remember Johdi May from a film called "A World Apart" with Barbara Hershey and Yvonne Briceland. The movie was set in South Africa in the early '60's and was about the anti-apartied journalist Ruth First (played by Hershey). Johdi May was cast as her daughter; she was something like 14 at the time and was great. I don't really have a problem with the way she looks. She looks like a real person, which is really refreshing. And even better she is an atonishingly good actress. I'd much rather go the movies and see an average looking really fine actor/actress than some model that is more wooden than a redwood. As for "The Turn of the Screw", it is arguably the finest ghost story written in the English language. It's also pretty readable for Henry James. Don't get me wrong James deserves his reputation as a great writer, but his prose can be dense and difficult, albeit highly rewarding. The literary critic Hortense Calisher wrote, "Henry James never for one minute underestimated the intelligence of his readers and some people have never forgiven him for it." I hope the new adaptation is good. Although I'm not expecting it to be as good as "The Innocents", that film along with the oringinal "The Haunting", is one of the scariest movies I've ever seen. If the new one is comparable I'll be pleasantly surprised. I've always thought that CF would be quite adept at -- and suitable for -- Henry James adaptations.

Thanks for posting the cartoon, Renate! The hair is definitely overdone, but still, there is something there. (Tineke, looks like that look-a-like at Luna Nuova. ;-)

Renate: May I put it on my page? I love it! The nose is right. He has a very strong turned down nose, and the hair is good. No dimples, but then he was talking serious stuff to Jodhi -- trying to get her to accept a job where he knows strange things are happening. For those who loved the "Allen" look, thanks to Karen, I have a large version on my Londinium page -- HERE. Murph

The cartoon's a scream. I want it framed! Thanks for posting, Renate.

Thanks for the Londinium update, Karen and Murph! So, it's official, Edward does get Heloise in the end! Allen looks very cute! I'd love to tighten his tie and straighten his jacket He seems to be back in baggy trousers though ...maybe it's the proper Englishman look. :-) I can see why CF related to this script (definitely a newly-wed choice)..."Fiona is offered work in Rome which requires Allen to part with his beloved England to follow her". :-) BTW what happens in the hotel, where "culmination of the criss-cross affair takes place in a 'proper English fashion"? Partner swapping over tea and muffins? I'm hoping "Londinium" will be okay....I really like the fact that MB wants to bring out the hidden beauty of London (often presented as dreary unattractively on film). BTW, Karen,who gave the movie that glowing review...any disinterested parties, or just people like Mike Binder's agent, friends, mum etc? Have posted a snippet of news about BJD at #80. The movie seems set to start in March. TOTS....apparently Channel 4 are showing "The Innocents" on the same day. SLOW....Arami, the best way of checking SLOW's progress is to check the Movie listings for your local Showcase at http://wwww.teletext.co.uk. This site (Movies/TV Plus) is an excellent source for news...it's where Ann got all her scoops! I've been reading Ann Bilson's subsequent reviews (She of SLOW "worst movie" fame). I wouldn't touch her ratings with a bargepole. She managed to like "Guest House Paradiso" which the Times called "celluloid toilet paper" and this week, having slated "The Last Yellow" (improvised by student actors, this film is the opposite of pleasure, central character unlikeable and nastily misogynist) she concludes " certainly not the worst British film of the year". SLOW had two charming performances at its heart ( a fact that even the less good reviews acknowledged), excellent cinematography, and was a genuine attempt to take a positive look at cross-cultural relationships, a few light years removed from "Guess who's comming to Dinner". I think Ann Bilson is an irresponsible reviewer...or at least she should sort out her worst movie category!!!

Done it again...sorry! Correction http://www.teletext.co.uk

(Bethan) BTW, Karen,who gave the movie that glowing review...any disinterested parties, or just people like Mike Binder's agent, friends, mum etc? People in the latter category. ;-) I'm pretty sure I mentioned that when I first reported the info Now, about Binder's mum... ;-)

Thanks to my son, I have just seen Colin on BBC TV in a Lifeline Survival Appeal, he seemed very nervous but very earnest. What a sweetie. For all UK fans who did not see it and wish to, it is being repeated on Wednesday, on BBC2 at 5.50pm.

What is Lifeline Survival? Presumably a charity connected with fundraising for refugees who are stranded in the UK? Or is it something different? Was he very nervous? Actually,that's something I admire in him...that he obviously finds these things difficult, but still does them. Shall certainly watch/video on Wednesday. Thanks Ann! Is your son connected with Lifeline? Allison, how are you managing with your slipped disc? I hope it's not too painful or incapacitating.

Here is the website for that organization. After you enter the site, you will see a selection (after all the drop-down menus) for a Richard Gere interview. Maybe there will be one from Colin? ;-) http://www.survival.org.uk/

Was he very nervous? Actually,that's something I admire in him...that he obviously finds these things difficult, but still does them What he evidently finds difficult is facing (strange) people/cameras as himself, not acting, not as someone else, not as a character he plays. Many actors are like that. Many refuse to face people outside professional engagements. In view of that, Colin patiently and generously meeting his fans in the foyer of the Donmar Theatre virtually every day after the performance is indeed very admirable (I believe he only missed one occasion?).

he seemed very nervous but very earnest. What a sweetie. Yes indeedy. Ann, was this live? Did anyone else see it (and tape it)?

I bought my Christmas cards from the Lifeline Survival Charity. Aishling told me they rescue people at sea.

(Bethan) Allen looks very cute! *sigh* I'd love to tighten his tie and straighten his jacket And I would like to do the opposite, ma subito!!! ;-P

Firstly Bethan, Mark has no connection with Lifeline, just saw it in the Radio Times, I think. Secondly I have taped it together with a little snippet from TTOTS which was advertised straight after Oliver Twist, " starring Pam Ferris, Colin Firth & Jodhi May", just a glimpse of Colin but he touches JM's hand, looks her in the eye and says "I will be forever in your debt..."

oh dear - Colin Firth and Jodhi May." Just a glimpse of Colin holding JM's hand , looking her straight in the eyes he says "I will be forever in your debt..." Oh boy!

I have just seen Colin on BBC TV in a Lifeline Survival Appeal Ann, tell us more about this appeal. Since it was a scheduled broadcast, I gather it was of significant length (vs. a short public service announcement). Who else was on it? How long was Colin's bit? What was his general thrust? (Karen) I'm pretty sure I mentioned that when I first reported the info That might have been in the steam room ;-) (Bethan) which the Times called "celluloid toilet paper" Yikes!

I've been using a new Search Engine at work http://www.google.com which seems to be very good. It threw up some interesting information on Flashman...or at leat confirmation thtat the project exists. Reference to a Teletext item September 1998. "Martin Clunes, Joe Fiennes, Sean Bean, Nigel Havers are being tipped as possibles to star in a multi-million pound TV version of the famouus Flashman books..to play the swashbuckling bed-hopper.An insider said it's likely to be a BBC production shot in Turkey this year and will be made by the team that made "Sharpe" and will rival "Hornblower". " "Sharpe" was made by Carlton, who always produce for ITV (Are they doing TTOTS?). So "Flashman" is definitely on...let's hope that Colin has taken over in the lead stakes!

"Martin Clunes, Joe Fiennes, Sean Bean, Nigel Havers are being tipped as possibles to star in a multi-million pound TV version of the famouus Flashman books"...let's hope that Colin has taken over in the lead stakes! Is that likely to happen? He is not listed with the contenders and we know how agfresive his agent is at pursuing roles for him.(ZZZZZ!) :-(

That should read aggresive. I would like to make a suggestion. We all make mistakes on the keyboard now and then, I know I am usually rushing when I type and submit quickly. We know when we read what the word or words should be. Let's not waste a message on this topic correcting ourselves. Thank you!

TTOTS was made by Meridian. That's an interesting list of "possibles" from 1998. Quite an age span from Joe Fiennes to Nigel Havers. Much as I've been enjoying the books (Flash for Freedom now), I don't want Colin in the role. I know you all are hoping for him to do more television (as it is more accessible), but Flashman gets him further and further away from consideration for the roles that the *other* Fiennes gets. I haven't totally given up hope.

Another one down the tubes... :-( � Pierce Brosnan is in talks to star in John Boorman's adaptation of John Le Carr�'s spy thriller, The Tailor of Panama, which Boorman will direct. Also on Boorman's wish list are Geoffrey Rush and Jamie Lee Curtis, but according to the studio, Columbia, no deals have been struck yet. So much for directors seeing him work.

Susan's question on 127 prompted me to go to the Albemarle site, where its 8 December update says this about 3DOR: ENTIRE RUN NOW SOLD OUT - returns and standing may be available by queuing at the theatre on the day.

( Karen), I know you all are hoping for him to do more television (as it is more accessible), but Flashman gets him further and further away from consideration for the roles that the *other* Fiennes gets. I haven't totally given up hope. Might that be the new James Bond? ;-) To know that JB has a wish list for TToP and Colin is not included is very disappointing. It looks like HF is the only one that really wants him for the BJD. So, what do you want for Christmas, Mr. Firth?

(Moon) Might that be the new James Bond? ;-) No and you know that has nothing to do with the character. ;-) To know that JB has a wish list for TToP and Colin is not included is very disappointing. Yes, as I've always said Colin is right for a serious role in a LeCarre film, although none have ever done well at the box office. I think the casting choices really reflect the studio's preferences. In the Variety blurb on the same news item, it said Columbia is really after these people. Brosnan, Rush and Curtis are all bankable.

So then JB calls up CF and says, "Sorry Colin, I tried for you, you were my first choice, bla, bla, bla...

Thanks for the Flashman info, Bethan. "Martin Clunes, Joe Fiennes, Sean Bean, Nigel Havers are being tipped as possibles Wrong, wrong, wrong! (Karen) I don't want Colin in the role. I know you all are hoping for him to do more television (as it is more accessible), but Flashman gets him further and further away from consideration for the roles that the *other* Fiennes gets I agree with you about this. But at the same time, I can't see anyone else in the role.

(Moon)So, what do you want for Christmas, Mr. Firth? An answer immediately made it to the tip of my tongue but I daren't! Only SB could get away with it ;-D

God, Clunes in contention, there's a depressing thought!! So something to cheer us "Secret Garden" is on over Xmas, ITV says Dec. 30th. Not having seen it before,can anyone confirm (and I am choosing my words very carefully here!) how big his part actually is? Much smaller than the Master's I fear.:~)

(Lizza)"Secret Garden" is on over Xmas, ITV says Dec. 30th. Not having seen it before,can anyone confirm (and I am choosing my words very carefully here!) how big his part actually is? Much smaller than the Master's I fear.:~) TWO WHOLE MINUTES, Lizza. And if ITV dares to say "starring CF" I'll spit! ~~~~~~ Agree with Karen about Flashman...he's getting farther away from being considered for serious roles...but does he care?

I'm off to set the vid. Dying to know the pattern of his tie!

TTOTS was made by Meridian. Interesting. Meridian made "Hornblower". They are also part owned by Carlton, who made "Sharpe" and who will (according to the 1998 Teletext report) be making "Flashman". What this proves, I don't know! CF is the only one with enough swash and buckie to play Flashman...and he's the only decent horseman! I didn't pay any attention to the list..it's old news...but I felt that it confirmed that there will be a Flashman series. I don't want Colin in the role. I know you all are hoping for him to do more television (as it is more accessible), but Flashman gets him further and further away from consideration for the roles that the *other* Fiennes gets. I haven't totally given up hope. (Karen) I think Flashman will be a good career move. The production values will be high and Flashman is a complex character, particularly as he gets older. It's not a shallow role. And good TV drama can be unbeatable...it has a different pace, a slower unfolding, which can be more satisfying. As you well know, I'd love to see him vying with RF(!!), but even at my most positive, I don't think he's got the bankability (yet!)that the major movie backers want. Interesting article in today's Guardian on how Brit movies aimed at the female audience are being killed off by hostile male reviewers/critics. "Fanny and Elvis" and "Mad Cows" are given as examples of films expected to do well, but which died because of critical panning (whereas male-oriented movies do well). Article says that television is the better medium for women, and also that women tend to ignore reviews and go on word of mouth recommendations. But most films only last one week in the mutiplexes a d therefore word of mouth is too slow. I'm off to set the vid. Dying to know the pattern of his tie! ((Lizza) LOL! And ditto. He's rarely seen as himself! BTW I think "The Secret Garden" is a later non CF version.

It is possible, of course, that the reverse applies and it's not that "they" don't want Colin, but perhaps Colin doesn't want "them". Wasn't he mentioned as a possible Flashman some time ago? Evidently he refused and is no longer included in the preliminaries. And maybe spy stories don't grab his imagination, either.

Evidently he refused Really, Arami? How do you know this? I am happy to see that DB has so many roles coming his way that he snubs spy stories.

Julie Andrews' malpractice lawsuit is in the news today, so there are references to Relative Values and a spring 2000 release. Also an item at BBC News about the Noel Coward Centenary, which says this: "Another was Relative Values and a film version of the play is to be released in early 2000 as part of the centenary events.[...] It stars Julie Andrews, Stephen Fry, Colin Firth and Denise Richards - latterly of 007's The World Is Not Enough." hee hee That's one way to get the kiddies to see it. Keep Denise Richards' name in it! ;-) (There's a picture of Stephen Fry next to blurb.) No mention of the gala Coward evening.

(Moon)So, what do you want for Christmas, Mr. Firth? (Gi)An answer immediately made it to the tip of my tongue but I daren't! Only SB could get away with it ;-D LOL! what? little innocent me? *hee hee*

Check out the Donmar Warehouse Holiday card I got in the mail. Himself representing the latest of their top 15 most important (I assume) productions of the 90's. The ones I can identify are Jane Horrocks in "Cabaret", Adrian Lester in "Company", Jim Broadbent in "Habeas Corpus", Zoe Wanamaker in "Electra", Gryff Rhys-Jones in "Front Page", Kidman in "Blue Room", Sophie Thompson in "Into the Woods", Charles Dance in "Good", JE and SD in "The Real Thing", Colm Meaney in "Juno...", and CF. Nice one! http://www.ultranet.com/~luvvy/images/donmar-card.jpg

(Chris L) Nice one! Nice indeed! And gratifying. Looks like a good pic; wish we could get a blowup of just that. Thanks for sending it on.

Love the card, Chris! Wonder if they sell them at the boxoffice? ;-) Top row, next to Adrian Lester, is I think Claire Skinner in The Glass Menagerie

Check out the Donmar Warehouse Holiday card I got in the mail. Himself representing the latest of their top 15 most important (I assume) productions of the 90's. The ones I can identify are Jane Horrocks in "Cabaret", Adrian Lester in "Company", Jim Broadbent in "Habeas Corpus", Zoe Wanamaker in "Electra", Gryff Rhys-Jones in "Front Page", Kidman in "Blue Room", Sophie Thompson in "Into the Woods", Charles Dance in "Good", JE and SD in "The Real Thing", Colm Meaney in "Juno...", and CF. Nice one! http://www.ultranet.com/~luvvy/images/donmar-card.jpg

Thanks for sharing, Chris. Was there a message inside the card?

Thanks for posting that link, Chris. Here's clarification about Flashman: last September, a source close to CF's agent (stop snickering) denied any knowledge of the project and that CF was signed to play the role. This followed the TV Times (I think that was the publication) announcement to the contrary made mid-August. Since the bit Bethan found is dated 1998, we can consider that old news. The project has probably been kicking around for awhile but it isn't clear how close to reality it is (somewhere between oblivion and the BJD film). There was never any report that he was offered the role and turned it down. (Karen) and Denise Richards - latterly of 007's The World Is Not Enough." Oops! Bet they heard from Jeanne Tripplehorn's agent.

a source close to CF's agent That would be Moon! Why didn't you clarify this, dear? ;-)

Moon, close to CF's agent? Wot, enough to strangle him? ;-)

A lady who attended 3DOR in November asked Colin afterwards if he planned on taking a long-earned rest after the play and he said something along the lines of "No, I don't know what I'll be doing, but it will be something". Maybe by the time we see him in January, he will know. And you thought I'd gone away ;-)

a source close to CF's agent ( Karen), That would be Moon! Why didn't you clarify this, dear? ;-) I would much rather be a source close to CF. ;-) Thank you for clearing that up, Eileen. I wondered what Arami might be talking about and I hope she let's us know. (Gi), Moon, close to CF's agent? Wot, enough to strangle him? ;-) Heehee.......

Thanks for that Cathey, its good to know he is not comtemplating another six month's rest!! BTW TTOTS is being previewed quite regularly on the TV with great emphasis on CF, there are going to be some very disappointed Firth fans who may be thinking that they will see their hero for the whole time 2hrs.

Bethan, did you get to see the Lifeline Appeal and btw Eileen Colin's Appeal was on behalf of the tribes of the Kalahari Desert who are being made to leave their land by the Botswana Government, land that is theirs by right. Have I got that right Bethan?

Thanks, Ann. So, Lizza, what did his tie look like? ;-D

Absolutely right! Just seen it and video taped it, Ann. I thought it was very thought-provoking, and I didn't think that Colin was at all nervous. He struck me as being composed, serious and professional. For those who didn't see it, it was a 10 minute slot and Colin spoke the commentary to the filmed shots of the tribesmen and their families (beautiful children) and made a direct appeal (appearing on screen four times). The intro stated "Colin Firth presents the case for tribal peoples worldwide". The specific example was of the Bushmen in the Kalahari desert, who are being forced to leave the land which they rightly own, by the Botswana Government who are interested in profits from tourism and diamond mining. The tribespeople are being re-located in inhumane camps, in terrible conditions, where children die from lack of food. Tribesmen who hunt are punished by torture. Survival supports cases like this and also many other instances of injustices against tribal peoples who want to preserve their way of life but are suppressed by exploitational governments. Survival also work to influence policies of organisations like the World Bank and the UN. CF's opening comments were "In today's industrial society, the rich diversity of culture and ways of life are being wiped out. Success is measured by the achievement of wealth and power. But millions of people do not want to be in a profit-driven consumer society, especially if their lands are taken away from them... He concludes "At this, the beginning of a new century, all of us who are lucky to live in freedom have the chance to help protect the basic human rights of the world's most vulnerable people... He then asks for donations to Survival (can be sent (very simple address) to FREEPOST SURVIVAL UK) The clip must have been shot at the Survival headquarters in London - there were boxfiles behind CF, and the Director of Survival also spoke briefly. CF just looked natural, very serious, hair tousled, no make up, black open necked shirt...but I found I was listening to him rather than looking. Murph, if wants to post my comments in your News section please do so...I'm sure there will be a lot of interest.

Thanks for your timely report, Bethan.

Bethan says: Martin Clunes, Joe Fiennes, Sean Bean, Nigel Havers are being tipped as possibles to star in a multi-million pound TV version of the famouus Flashman books..to play the swashbuckling bed-hopper. ********* I'm late on this, I know, but seeing Nigel Havers name reminded me that in a NY Times article yesterday about the novelist Elizabeth George, Havers in "Chariots of Fire" high-jumping with the champagne glasses was her role model for Detective Lynley. There's a role I'd like to see Dear Boy play. Some of the stories are going to be made by the BBC. I still think CF is out of the Flashman thing. My source was pretty close to the center. Murph

I also loved the way he finished Bethan, very polite.

I'm the one, I think, that Eileen is referring to re a source close to CF's agent. I can only say that it is someone who talked directly with Colin's agent. The agent said he had never heard of the Flashman project. Murph Thanks, Bethan. I will put the Survival info up now, along with Luvvy's card on the Donmar page.

Yes, thank you, Murph. I should have cited your site as the source of my info. Apologies for my oversight. 8-D

You're most welcome, Murph! Re. Flashman...the "news" item I found was an old one, which pre-dates the TV Times report (stating that CF would play Flashman) by about a year. I only quoted it to prove that there was, indeed, a "Flashman project" which was being worked on. I still think he'll do it...it's a good project IMHO. (Probably his agent was being politic and non-commital) Anyway, after nearly six months of working for nothing (two stints of 3DOR) and work for BBC Scotland, and cameo roles, he may need a cash boost! Carlton/Meridian pay very well to "star" actors...for his last series of "Sharpe" Sean Bean was paid �1million, which is big money in UK terms!(peanuts for Hollywood :-) ) But...CF may be the one actor in the world who's not interested in money!

WOT, no tie! CF wore the sort of attire he might come down in after 3DOR, black top with collar of a slightly different black fabric. The rest has very competently been reviewed above. Thanks for link Luvvie. Do the" backstage crew" all get cards in the post?

Thanks, Bethan for your detailed report on Survival. We would all loved to have seen it. I wonder if 3 Deers could put it on a software that would make it available for all to see at cf.com?

Forgot to add, re. the Survival appeal, that you can also phone in credit card donations to UK code 0800 099 099. 0800 is a FreePhone service. BBC Audience Response take the calls...they also ask for your address, as Survival will acknowledge all donations. I think it's a very good cause. My first trip to West Africa was as a volunteer aid worker. I'm much more materialistic and selfish these days, and so it's nice to be reminded that there are still people who care.

Bethan, did they mention when Colin would be *manning* the telephones? ;-)

Lookie here: More later... ;-)

Oh dear, he looks very tired. He must have finally read the book.:-0 C'mon, does anyone need to have 85 words in one sentence? Thanks for the transcription of the Survival info. We may start seeing more of Colin in the news than on the screen.

I wondered what Arami might be talking about... Calm down, everybody... I was merely meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine dark eyes in the face of a handsome man... erm... Wot??? What I am often playing at is commonly known as surmising. Making an "informed guess". As the saying has it, there's no smoke without fire. Someone, somewhere, must have mentioned Flashman and Firth in the same sentence... Even if it was only to say "I wonder if..." This may have been followed by someone else saying "No way!"... Who, when, how - we shall probably never know. End of story. Only in the meantime the usual way of the gossip blew it up a bit out of the proportion. And in the Lifeline Appeal, Colin looked very earnest - indeed, not nervous at all - and concentrating on the autocue. His hair looked damp and flattened, as opposed to the usual fluffy.

Thanks for the picture, Karen. I'm glad to see The Master up close and personal, but I have to admit that this is not the favorite look I've ever seen on CF. Somehow the combo of the too-tall, too-dark hair with the big sideburns just isn't doing it for me. (Almost makes me long for Simon Westward's little moustache.) Maybe it's just this still photo. I'm sure ODB in action will not disappoint!

The milisecond glimpse on the TV trailer wasn't too bad. There's hope.

Oh honey, all the comments about how "charming" he is make me think the picture will not do him justice. ;-) "On set Jodhi was 'chaperoned' by the production team as the intimate scenes between Miss and the Master were filmed. The Miss is driven by her feelings for the Master. Her thoughts are dominated by images of him. She is motivated by the responsibility the Master has placed on her."

Thanks for posting the Master, Karen! Those wardrobe people have done it again, the shirt collar is too big. I can see the resemblance in the cartoon a little more now. I am leaving for Italy tomorrow, Rome then Milan. I wish everyone a very Happy Christmas. I left my Holiday Greetings for you on Topic 127. Cheers!

Yeah!! We're back! OK, here's the new page for: The Turn of the Screw

Karen... you sly thing... ;-) What can I say? I'm so proud of you. You're a firth.com great asset.

Asset? There are probably any number of people in the UK who might consider me more of a Class A Pest. ;-) From the writeup, it does look like they are going to be emphasizing the sexual angle as Bethan - our resident psychic - thought. Yippee!!

There are probably any number of people in the UK who might consider me more of a Class A Pest. ;-) With splendid results for us and cf.com - and long may it be so. they are going to be emphasizing the sexual angle And so they should. I have seen a stage production of TOTS recently and the master didn't even appear in person. The infatuation motif adds a lot of - erm...- flesh (yum! ;-)) to the story.

re: Donmar card. Don't know if they were sent to everyone. Inside is "...and looking forward to the great moments of the future! Seasons Greetings and a Happy New Year From all of us at the Donmar" with 10 signatures from the staff including Rachel (Weinstein) and Sam (Mendes). No actors.

OT: Benjamin Whitrow (Mr. Bennett in P&P) plays Sir Anthony Absolute in the RSC production of "The Rivals" that opens in Stratford-upon-Avon in March. Lindsay Posner directs.

Thanks Bethan for the Lifeline info...I hope to get to see the tape when we go on the 15th. ~~~~~~ Karen....you are Spring's Secret Weapon....what a terrific coup... The TTOTS page is a wonder!Thank you!! ~~~~ re; Donmar card I got one too.....probably all "Friends of..." did. I notice the signature of the guys in the Box Office.....LOL!!!

Congrats on another great scoop, Karen! How do you do it?!! Jodhi May seems to be blonde in the outside location shots, but dark haired in the interior shots. The interior shots seem much darker. Why did she have to be "chaperoned" while filming the shots with the Master...tongue in cheek, surely?

The Miss is driven by her feelings for the Master. Her thoughts are dominated by images of him. Sounds like the Miss should be a drool girl. Beautiful page, Karen. Happy Christmas to you too, Moon. Arrividerci!

Great job once again, Karen! *clap clap* Also am LOL about the "chaperone" line during the "intimate" scenes. Wonder what they mean by intimate?! (Heide) Oh dear, he looks very tired. He must have finally read the book.:-0 C'mon, does anyone need to have 85 words in one sentence? Hee hee! Not, to mention, too many, commas... (Evelyn) I notice the signatures of the guys in the Box Office.....LOL!!! Or were they only in your card? ;-D

(Eileen) about the "chaperone" line during the "intimate" scenes. Wonder what they mean by intimate?! How else are they going to get people to watch a Henry James dramatization? Lots of spin here. But if Miss is fantasizing about the Master, how better to show us than to film it... (am fantasizing those scenes right now) ;-) Looks like SLOW is not playing anywhere this week. :-(

LOL....The wagon train finally made it out to Oklahoma bringing....MLSF!! Playing in Norman (60 miles away) home of the University of Oklahoma. Going tomorrow with a carful....er, I mean...hitching up the surrey....:-D

(KarenR)But if Miss is fantasizing about the Master, how better to show us than to film it... (am fantasizing those scenes right now) ;-) Ha! I thought the same... or at least flash back to her encounter with him, which would multiply the actual 10 minutes ;-)

Karen, just saw the TTOTS page, it is lovely and very informative. The pics of the houses are a dream. Did you have to mention "the dashing Mr Darcy,(...) the man who set women's hearts a flutter in Pride and Prejudice", though? ;-P

Hallelujah, Evelyn!!! Aren't you glad you went to Dallas. Look how long it took. But by the end of next month the video will be out. Was looking for a picture of a Conestoga wagon for you ;-) (Gi) Did you have to mention "the dashing Mr Darcy,(...) the man who set women's hearts a flutter in Pride and Prejudice", though? ;-P Seems quite unnecessary, doesn't it? ;-)

Well, I'm going through thr Bucket at this very moment and there's no pic of Colin in the RV page :-( However, the Londinium page is wonderful, IMO :-)

... and the DQ page is fun, thanks to the background tartan and the animated busues. You are an Artist, my dear :-)

Thanks, Karen. I love the TTOTS page. So, you live in a pair of boots now, are they the Master's boots? ;-) Question: has any one seen Don't Look Now which is one of ODB's favourite films? I am not fond of ghost movies but have eagerness to see this one right now. "If I am offered something irresistible, and it means wearing a costume like Darcy's, then I will do it," says Colin What is irresistible for him is a mystery for me ;-)

After reading Gi's comment, I had to go poke around in the bucket myself... and Karen it's absolutely wonderful!! :-) I liked the boots too -very cute.

Another thought about what ODB said irresistible offers, Mr.Darcy was NOT irresistible for him if I remember correctly. If was not the producer's persuasion, we may get a totally different Mr. Darcy (very very scary thought *shiver*).

I just wanted to thank all of you for making me feel welcome and for all the Firth news you have passed along. Here's a greeting just for you: THANKS Clive wrote to me that he has seen TOTS. Here is his take on it - definitely from a sound man's view! (no Colin): ****************************** On Sunday I went to a private screening of Turn Of The Screw and I must say I was very impressed. They've cut out about 4 minutes (I think), which has tightened the whole thing up - very much to the good in my opinion. The photography is beautiful; the acting is great, especially the 2 children; costumes and sets all look lovely. My one small criticism, between you and I only, is that the make-up people let Jodhi May down by letting the spots on her forehead show badly on a few shots. Not good. I was amazed at how well they cleaned up my location sound in post-production: I'd sat there in agony recording dialogue with light aircraft, jumbos and helicopters in the background of nearly every exterior, plus today's extremely noisy film lights sizzling and whistling their way through my interiors. But lo and behold! The finished film, which uses my sound for every scene bar one, is completely clear of all extraneous noises! How do they do that? There was just one scene, a conversation between Jodhi and Pam Ferris in the garden, which had to be re-recorded - we were dogged by a persistent stunt pilot who spent 2 hours practicing right over the location and we couldn't afford the time to wait till he'd gone. I was privileged to see the film without commercial breaks: the rest of Britain will have to put up with 4 of them breaking up the 90-minutes when it's shown on December 26th, Boxing Day here in England - so called because traditionally boxes, or presents, were given to employees the day after Christmas Day. I say traditionally but it almost certainly became an age-olde tradition in the 19th century, like so many of our so-called ancient traditions. - Clive ************** Again, thanks for being the Best "Droolies" in the world. Murph Evelyn = so glad MLSF has come to "home country."

Xian, "Don't Look Now" is an excelllent film, directed by Nicholas Roeg, and starring Julie Christie and Donald Sutherland, made in the early eighties, I think. It's based on a novella by Daphne du Maurier (same title) which is also well worth reading. The film is set in Venice, is very atmospheric, and is about an English couple whose young daughter has died. It focuses on psychic powers and the ending is totally unpredictable and chilling. There are also some rather sexy scenes! Woth seeing, definitely. The only other film CF has been quoted as liking is "A man for all Seasons" starring Paul Schofield. Good review of TTOTS in Heat magazine, although they mention that "unfortunately" CF only appears in a cameo. As usual he's referred to as the "dashing Darcy!"

bethan, Thank you very much for the info of Don't Look Now! Hopefully I can find it in the Blockbuster near where I live. Thanks, Murph, that is lovely Christmas Greeting especially with ODB as Santa Claus. Tonight, I'll dream of THIS Santa coming down my chimney at the Christmas Eve ;-)

Thankyou Murph, and Happy Holidays to you too. I was wondering Murph, and I may be being a bit cheeky but I was wondering if your source who is close to CF's Agent might be able to give you some early scoops on what he may be doing afgter 3DOR. Someone said that he intends to carrying on working and does not intlend to take a break after the play. A goog old fashioned thriller would be good ifx he thinks he is too old for a romantic role.

Thankyou Murph, and Happy Holidays to you too. I was wondering Murph, and I may be being a bit cheeky but I was wondering if your source who is close to CF's Agent might be able to give you some early scoops on what he may be doing afgter 3DOR. Someone said that he intends to carrying on working and does not intlend to take a break after the play. A good old fashioned thriller would be good ifx he thinks he is too old for a romantic role.

(Xian)What is irresistible for him is a mystery for me The most mysterious thing to me is his misguided notion that his viewers don't like to watch sex--the most obvious clue of all that he's never poked around over here on drool. Good sex is definitely in the fine eye of the beholder! And as for bums going up and down, everything depends on whose the bum, as we would be glad to explain, would we not?

All this talking about "Boxing Day" reminds me of something. I declare Dec. 17 "Boxers Day". (and now I pray that I don't ruin the effect with incompetent htmlling) Karen: excellent work on TOTS!

Thanks Murph for the Firth Holiday card..ODB is also Our Favorite Santa. And for the review from Clive. His comment: between you and I only, is that the make-up people let Jodhi May down by letting the spots on her forehead show badly on a few shots. Not good. Am I mistaken...or did he originally say that his former girlfriend was the make-up person on the set.... ~~~~~ My only wish re: TTOTS reviews ...is that enough journalists complain about Colin's mini-part.

I declare Dec. 17 "Boxers Day" Great idea, Renate. Every day is Boxers Day with me! Murph--absolutely RRRRockin! I've got to go have some eggnog.

Forgot to add, the Heat magazine review gave TTOTS a 4 star rating, so I don't think I'll switch off after the cameo appearance! The most mysterious thing to me is his misguided notion that his viewers don't like to watch sex--the most obvious clue of all that he's never poked around over here on drool. Didn't he say that it was "embarrassing to watch"?! Depends who's watching whom. :-) Thanks for your Christmas greeting Murph! And have a good trip Moon!

The most mysterious thing to me is his misguided notion that his viewers don't like to watch sex It must stem from the fact that ODS(hy)B doesn't like playing sex scenes (you must remember himsaying so in one interview?). In his opinion, sex is for doing, not watching.

(Arami)In his opinion, sex is for doing, not watching. So, fine! He can do it; we'll watch it. Then we'll all be happy. Or if he wants to educate us to the superiority of his point of view, I'm sure we'd all be happy to try the experiment. I'm ready to be convinced!

Hmmm, talk about male reviewers! Just read the Times review of TTOTS "It is a stunningly beautiful production, all Vermeer interiors, if only the governess did not look like a cetacean (Dinosaur)hoovering up krill." He's very cruel about Jodhi May's range of expressions, and then says..."Intense attraction to the Master (Colin "naked Darcy" Firth)is captured with a slightly open mouth.." Elsewhere says the plot should be "familiar from its many stagings" (I'd never seen any version of this). Aso says ther are "four distinctive characters, plus two apparitions", which presumably excludes The Master. I don't like the "naked Darcy" comment...it's innacurate, and why must CF always be referred to in the context of this role? It puts him in a no-win situation, and liable to be made fun of by male reviewers!! I sometimes wonder if it was wise to take a cameo role in a costume drama.

Thank you, Gi, Esbee and Xian. Glad you like. This webpage stuff can be fun. Had to have a bucket, you know, to hold all this drool runoff. And FYI, Xian, those are my boots for wading through high drool. ;-) (Cymbeline) everything depends on whose the bum LOL!! I must agree 100% with your assessment. He really should mind his own business and "do" what he likes. Everybody happy. (Renate) I declare Dec. 17 "Boxers Day" Since it fell on a Friday this year, shall we make it a three-day weekend holiday time? ;-) (Evelyn) Am I mistaken...or did he originally say that his former girlfriend was the make-up person on the set I shouldn't drink coffee while reading. LOL!! going to get my Windex (Bethan) I don't like the "naked Darcy" comment...it's innacurate That's right! There was "naked Tom Jones," but not "naked Darcy." Sounds like a letter to the editor of The Times is required. Go to it, girl. ;-)

Why don't you write to the reviewer, Bethan, and ask which P&P he saw because you sure would like a copy of it. I'm afraid our boy is destined to be Darcy forever unless he takes the lead in another success. Don't think the films bein released in 2000 are going to dispel the Darcy image and playing Mark Darcy would only add more fuel to that fire. But sigh! Inaccuracies aside, could there be a more flattering potrait of a character of whom to be constantly reminded? Reviewers bedamned. Nothing bad about Colin's performance and if Jodhi May can't carry the film, Colin's cameo appearance isn't going to be blamed. Thanks for the cheery greetings, Murph. And Renate, thanks for explaining so aptly with pictures what "Boxer's Day" is all about.

More from Clive on Colin in TOTS: ******************** It is misleading to put Colin up as the star of TOTS, I agree. Having said that his scene is so important in setting up the rest of the tale, as you know. In the film it is very intense. Colin comes across as a friendly, intense man, quite remote because we seem to be seeing him only through Miss's eyes, which is just right for the film. When we filmed the scene he was quite obviously very relaxed and happy with lots of on-set jokes and I think you can see that on the screen. We shot it very efficiently with very few takes of each shot, so the whole day was pleasant and easy as filming days go, apart from the fact that Sion House is directly under the approach path to London's Heathrow Airport, which is less than 8 miles away! My overall assessment of the film (a heavily biased one, of course) is that it's director Ben Bolt's best work to date, being much less meandering than other films I've done with him. That's not to say it feels rushed - the pace, which is probably the most difficult thing to perfect in film-making, felt absolutely right to me. ************* Murph

Re: Times review of TTOTS"if only the governess did not look like a cetacean (Dinosaur)hoovering up krill." He's very cruel about Jodhi May's range of expressions,.." cetacean= "any aquatic mammal including whales, dolphins and related forms with large head, fishlike nearly hairless body and paddle-shaped forelimbs." (Webster's). A krill is the larvae that a whale feeds on. The reviewer is also v. cruel about Ms. May's looks. All I said was that she was ugly...and everyone came down on me...and said she was "Jane-Eyre-plain".IMHO a more attractive governess (Sophie Marceau in "Firelight") would have made the production more palatable. I didn't even like her as Lady Sarah in "The Aristocrats".And don't think she's a v. good actress. Now I'm off to see MLSF!

Evelyn was in such a hurry to see MLSF, she forgot to close the tag. I don't blame her. ;-) Have fun!

cetacean= "any aquatic mammal including whales, dolphins and related forms with large head, fishlike nearly hairless body and paddle-shaped forelimbs." Ooops! Not a dinosaur....but still an unnecessarily unpleasant comparison by the reviewer. Quite over the top! I don't think "Miss" is intended to be particularly pretty...that would undermine the characterisation of someone suffering from repression and sexual hysteria. But I do think Jodhi May is quite attractive and a very good actress...I saw her recently in a very dramatically charged role (not a costume drama) and thought she was excellent. (Begging to differ, here! :-) ) Didn't like the Times review, so in the course of hectic Christmas shopping, did my usual "browse not buy" at the newsagents! All the papers are reviewing the Xmas TV programmes...and all the other reviews for TTOTS are, I'm pleased to say, very good indeed...,"fine new adaptation", "excellent and chilling", "Good story very well told" but they do point out that the "dashing Master" only makes a brief appearance "but that should be enough to make millions of women happy" and also comment that CF's "return to costume drama has been over-hyped" The Dail Mail review (male reviwer!)is worth giving in full (I bought this!). It's the Pick of the Day and one of only two or three (over a fortnight) to get a 5 star rating. TURN OF THE SCREW (5 stars) The jewel in ITV's drama crown this Christmas is this handsome, impressively atmosheric adaptation of Henry James' chilling ghost story. Jodhi May stars as Miss, the governess hired to look after two children in a grand, isolated country mansion. She is hired, in a scene that plays more like a seduction than a business transaction, by the Master, a debonair bachelor played by (swoon) Colin Firth. It's a pleasure to see him back in period dress, though the high Victorian gear isn't as fetching as Mr Darcy' shirt and breeches. Miss is charmed by the Master and delighted with her posting. The house is beautiful and the housekeeper is friendly and the children seem charming, However before long, Miss starts having some very strange experiences... Again, Murph, please feel free to use any of the above, if you think it would be of general interest!

I should have said, Karen and Murph...sorry! It's just that I was thinking more in terms of a news update, but the reviews could also be an interesting addition to Karen's excellent TTOTS pages!

But Darcy WAS completely and utterly naked in one scene... even if his full glory was carefully screened from prying eyes...

And there's me just about to complain to the Times! :-)

(Arami)But Darcy WAS completely and utterly naked in one scene. Nope. He was wearing his Arsenal boxers--that's why the dressing gown. IMO the most erotic moment in P&P2 comes when he leans back in his chair while writing the famous letter with all the fancy linen undone and you get that lovely view of his bare throat--so symbolic as he's making himself vulnerable by trusting his darkest secret for the first time ever and it's to the woman he loves even though she has just rejected him. One of the demonstrations of J.A.'s genius in this book is that she has Darcy and Lizzie trust each other with secrets that could ruin their families ev n though consciously they are angry and each thinks that the other is hostile. Nonetheless underneath each knows somehow that he is safe with the other, has sensed that the deepest assurance of marital success--mutual trust--is possible with the other. Warming to the doesn't-like-sex-theme (I see you sleeping in the back row!), one of CF's great talents I think is his ability to convey physical presence (I don't mean large size or physical power but rather being *physically* there in a scene). The viewer is aware of his body (and I don't think it's just my drool talking here) so that watching a scene becomes more like what you do when looking at a painting for instance as well as listening to the dialog and noting the characters' interactions. Three e amples come to mind. (SPOILER ALERT) In AMITC there's a scene where he's reclining outside Moon's tent--no sex, no Natasha, no discussion of her--you're just very aware of his body being there, how it's arranged and how it moves. In ATA of course I think that's what we respond to in the kitchen door snappies and what Jessica's character responds to (more than in the actual seduction scene!). In WOF which I've just gotten a chance to see, his physical presence is empashized throughout I think, which is nteresting in that he's not really supposed to have any, but it struck me esp in a scene in the hotel dining room where he sees what's her name crawling around on the floor among the tables and moves in to see what's going on and also at one point when he crosses the lobby and goes up the stairs. Maybe he feels it's more interesting, more difficult, requires more complex acting to convey sensuality and eroticism that way than through bald sex. And I think he's a real master of it unlike a number of actors who are supposed to be sexy guys but to my mind are merely pretty good-looking blunderers. Finally for comparison, I think one of the most erotic scenes I've ever seen comes in Strictly Ballroom when Scott and Fran dance the rhumba to Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps. That movie, though it suffers from the absence of ODB, is still one of my top ten. Interested in y'all's reactions here.

The bit you missed from the actual Boxing Day page in The Daily Mail, Bethen - , "PICK OF THE DAY.......as above but this is the bit that worries me " She is hired in a scene that plays more like a seduction than a business transaction, by the Master, a debonair batchelor, played by (swoon) Colin Firth. A pleasure to see him back in period dress, THOUGH THE HIGH VICTORIAN GEAR ISN'T AS FETCHING AS MR. DARCY'S SHIRT AND BREECHES. (not shouting, just don 't know how to emphasize any other way). I agree tha he does not look quite so good in this period costume as in P&P, but I am looking forward to the "seduction". Talking of seduction, I have just returned from seeing Colin in 3DOR with my sons and Mark's girlfriend and I have to say that I preferred Colin's March portrayal of Walker to how he is playing it this time around. Both my sons mentioned that they found it hard to hear what Colin was saying because he seems to shout quite a lot and waves his hands around much more and seems much more neurotic. However, I liked the way they played the second act, especially E.MCg who was much better this time around and was really quite seductive, I loved her scenes with Colin. Having said all this we all enjoyed it very much and I am looking forward to seeing it for the 4th time in January. To round off a really lovely evening with my two sons, just as we were leaving Colin came down the stairs beheind us and we nearly didn't recognise him as he had these dark rimmed glasses on, old jogging bottoms and trainers. I turned to Mark and said thats Colin behind you and he said where, and there he was right behind Mark. H gave some people in the foyer his autographs and had some photos taken, I was frantically searching for something for him to sign his authograph on but had no programme as I already had one and left it at home!!, well Mark rushed up to the Box Office, bought a programme and came back to find that he had left and was walking up the street, I said never mind but he ran after him said "Excuse me Colin, but could I have your autograph for my Mum".. What is her name says Colin, Anne says Mark, do you spell th t with or without an "E" says Colin, I'm not sure says Mark, (Iask you!), You ought to know how to spell your Mum's name says Colin. Then Marks says something about "how come you got all the funny lines and he laughed. What a really nice man, he was with friends and still stopped and signed the autograph and spoke to Mark. Well done Mark and well done Colin. Sorry to ramble on but I think that will do. No so good was when we got back to Gatwick and found it was snowing very hard and I hate driving th ough the snow, still ODB is worth it!!

Oh Ann...what a funny scene.Love the part of Colin telling Mark he should know how to spell your name!!He's getting "fatherly". Thanks for sharing. Well done, Mark for taking care of your mum. And dear Colin for being so obliging.Sounds like a perfect evening...:-) 'Cept for snow:-( ~~~~ .. he seems to shout quite a lot and waves his hands around much more and seems much more neurotic. I think he must emphasize this more in different performances.When I saw him in November, I saw a difference, but didn't find it objectionable...in fact I preferred it to last March's portrayal of Walker. Made more of a contrast to Ned. ~~~~~~ I'll post MLSF comments on #121 tomorrow; the Miramax guy tells me the review will be in Sunday's paper.I will say I'm glad Colin is packing the house in 3 DOR 'cause I had a "private screening" today.

After yesterday's rather bizarre zoological review of TTOTS in the Times, the Sunday Times gives it a glowing review ("pick of the day") and describes Jodhi May's performance as "brilliant". Usual pic of The Master and JM.

Sweet story, Ann. I'm so glad to hear he's still so obliging. Don't you wish you didn't care so much, then you could talk as freely to him as your son. Tell him what a good boy we all think he is. Only you at MLSF, Evelyn? Sounds like this horse has been beaten to death. Time to ship it over the Atlantic to resuscitate it.

(Cymbeline) Maybe he feels it's more interesting, more difficult, requires more complex acting to convey sensuality and eroticism that way than through bald sex. It would have to be. I've never heard any actor say they like doing sex scenes, mostly for the reason that they're difficult to do in front of a crew on a set. I'm sure conveying sensuality and eroticism is more challenging and exciting and it sounds as if Colin gets to bring it to the screen yet again in TTOS. Yippee! That said, I can't decide if it's the chicken or the egg conundrum. Do I like Coling Firth because he's a special actor or is he a special actor because I like Colin Firth. It's all become too entwined to know. I do cringe sometimes watching sex scenes and especially sappy romantic scenes with surging violin music in the background, candles and enraptured, open mouthed expressions because they're so badly done. Yet there's only one sex scene/romantic scene with Colin I can ever recall cringing at and that's the rock scene in Playmaker. Even Lost Empires which has the candles, open mouths and music isn't badly done, IMO. Cymbeline, sounds as if your CF video collection is getting quite large.

...-he seems to shout quite a lot and waves his hands around much more and seems much more neurotic. ...-I think he must emphasize this more in different performances. It helps to remember that in live theatre no two performances are exactly the same. Actors' mood on a particular day, their health, their private joys or sorrows, usually reflect on the performance, sometimes quite significantly. Do I like Coling Firth because he's a special actor or is he a special actor because I like Colin Firth "Both, I imagine..." :-)

Great TOTS page Karen, choc full of goodies, thank you. Thanks Murph for sharing all your "insider" info, your site just keeps getting even better. Lovely encounter Ann, I am so glad you got your autograph, well done Mark too!

(Heide)...-he seems to shout quite a lot and waves his hands around much more (Arami) . Actors' mood on a particular day, ........, their private joys ........, usually reflect on the performance, sometimes quite significantly. 'Bet he spends a lot of time with his Italian relations. ;-D

Just caught a fisrt glimpse of CF in the TTOTS "trailer" which was shown at the end of "Oliver Twist". TTOTS looks good. My impression of the millisecond recording of Colin is that his hair is brown and shortish (sideboards are brown certainly) not that artificial dyed black, and it's the lighting that makes him look dark. (Jodhi May is blondish) He also looks slightly tanned...a healthy complexion anyway (probably after filming Londinium in the London sunshine!) and has a very slight 5 o'clock shadow. Did anyone see the ending of "Wives and Daughters"...Barbara Cartland meets "The English Patient". And the proposal in the rain...? Didn't work for me. Michael Gambon's performance was the saving grace.

the ending of "Wives and Daughters"...Barbara Cartland meets "The English Patient" Oh, yuk! Now you've done it. We watched Oliver Twist, because we wanted the longer one out of the way first (and it was quite unnecessarily overlong) - now I'm not sure if I want to bother with WaD seeing your summing it up... Still, I like the scenery and Michael Gambon is a rare treat, so... maybe.

Ann, Loved your little encounter with ODB. You've got a great son there for sure! So did you get Colin's autograph with your name correctly written? I bet your son is sure how to spell your name now, LOL! (Heide)...-he seems to shout quite a lot and waves his hands around much more (Renate)'Bet he spends a lot of time with his Italian relations. Renate, that was what exactly came to my mind when I read Heide's comments ;-)

Sorry to differ, Bethan, but we enjoyed the ending to W&D. The whole series got better from episode 2 onwards. It's true that a lot of the plotting is two-dimensional, but it meant the ending was appropriate.

I have to wait till Saturday before I can watch the ending of W&D. I have to agree with Mark, I too felt the series got better and better. I actually considered staying home to watch the ending. But it was snowing heavily, so I wanted to leave home at a decent hour and not be stuck in the snow in the middle of the night.

Yes, I agree with Mark and Tineke! After the slow start we enjoyed it. It is worth watching just for Michael Gambon who is quite brilliant.

(Bethan) Hmmm, talk about male reviewers! /.../ if only the governess did not look like a cetacean (Dinosaur)hoovering up krill. Reflecting upon some of the lower-than-low blow British reviews that have been posted (that 'celluloid toilet paper' crack comes to mind, as well as the one calling Ralph Fiennes' lovemaking in TEOTA akin to opening a tin can [or something equally merciless]) it seems that no bad review is considered complete unless the author somehow makes it personally insulting. As for male reviewers and their naked jealousy toward Darcy (naked or otherwise), I can only say that it must be due to genetic programming--the same that results in male pattern baldness, failure to lower the toilet seat, failure to place dirty dishes in the dishwasher, failure to ask for directions, failure to move out of the passing lane although they're doing only 50 mph...I could go on and on! Loved your story, Ann! Kudos to Mark for having the nerve to scoot after Colin and kudos to Colin for being so accomodating (not to mention dispensing advice). I love these anecdotes. BTW, what did you think of his new specs?

OT: Wives and Daughters. I'm looking forward to this if only because of Gambon. He's opening a new play by Nicholas Wright next year. It's called "Cressida" and the Almeida is producing it, Nicholas Hytner directing. Opens at the Albery Theatre in the West End on 4 April. I'm there!

Are you going to The Albery in Jan/Feb/March Chris!! (TRT) Eileen, I thought his specs made Colin look very severe, very Headmasterish! re W&D, I agree with Bethan, I couldn't get into it, must confess I didn't get past episode 2, but couldn't relate to any of the characters and didn't really care, I am afraid. Liked OT though.

Are the specs for disguise, or for real? Or are they the specs he wears in 3DOR and he's forgotten to taken them off? Re W&D, I agree Michael Gambon was absolutely marvellous. But I switched allegiance to OT (with frequent channel hopping back and forth!) I thought the actual closing sequence of W&D was very Mills & Boon, and the thoroughly modern Molly reminded me of Kristin Scott Thomas in TEP. In the 1860s Africa was still the Dark continent, claiming the lives of most of its explorers (Mungo Park, Lander, Speke), and the malaria and sleeping sickness were endemic. No woman would have been allowed to join a scientifi expedition, and probably no husband would have exposed his wife to such dangers. But maybe I'm nit-picking!! :-) Are you feeling better, Allison? Ann (without an "e" :-))...thanks for describing your encounter!

OT: "The Real Thing". Unfortunately, unless I get a business trip to the UK during the run, I'll will miss this production again. I won't be back until May for certain. But I'll be there for all three Almeida productions (at Albery, Gainsborough Studios, and Islington) and Vanessa Redgrave's run as Prospero as the Globe. That will have to do. :-)

Article on CF, "I'm Quite Rough, Actually," in The Daily Telegraph. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/et?ac=001780639829970&rtmo=VMJ88w8K&atmo=99999999&pg=/et/99/12/21/btcol21.html

Thanks, Marianne. Take a look at the picture. He remarks of Three Days, "Though it didn't reveal itself to me completely in the initial readings, now I think it's a really major work." Just imagine what he would think of the play after reading our discussion! ;-) At that time I was mostly in Tunisia filming The English Patient and in Italy" - the native country of his soon-to-be wife, producer Livia Guiggiolo. Livia's been promoted? From PA to producer! Or is that what she's doing now? Firth the actor is not wholly averse to attention or publicity. He indeed declares that he is "happy to plug all the work I've done this year". Not "wholly" averse - ok, partially to fairly high percentage. ;-) If not, we've got some television talk shows he needs to appear on.

Hey, that coat looks familiar ;-) The only hysterical moment I've had was recently when some girls recognised me in the supermarket and started to shriek, but that was from Fever Pitch. Just for the record, that wasn't Heide and I. I had that same reaction to that bit about Livia, Karen. I think the author was going for past tense ('soon-to-be-wife'), but she got the job wrong. Well, at least everybody's age was right this time! he has also started pounding the pavements before and after performances ...muttering "where is Evelyn? Where is she?"

OK, the date has been announced for the US broadcast of Turn of the Screw. Will be on February 27th!!

I have just heard from a very good friend that 3DOR was voted "Play of the year" on BBC 2's "Late Review" last week. She said there were a lot of stills from the play used as well. Sorry if this is old news.

Marianne, many thanks for the link. So who's going to be checking out those Islington pubs? Good strong soled shoes are required for your visit to London ladies so you can "pound" the pavements in sympathy! "Clubbable" Colin LOL, sounds like he's out techno raving every night!! BTW agreed about W&D , got a lot better and MG was indeed superb. Thanks for forthcoming theatre news Luvvie.

(Lizza) "Clubbable" Colin LOL, sounds like he's out techno raving every night!! Didn't you say his friend's hair was blue? ;-)

(Karen) Didn't you say his friend's hair was blue? Maybe she's one of the Volvo ladies.

Thank you Marianne for the Telegraph article. ~~~~~~ Interesting stuff.....tells us a lot about him. Livia ia a nice girl. That's the jacket he wore last March..the one in the Spring picture. I refer to it as the Camden Market jacket. ~~~~~ I like "he's happy to plug all the work I've done this year..." Does that mean he'll attend the premieres?

For the competent scanners in our midst....the actual paper copy of the Daily Telegraph has a different HUGE black and white photo of Colin.....head and body shot, and a smaller colour photo (head only) on the front page ("The real Colin Firth") Looks thin...too much pounding the streets! Perhaps he walks home! Can't help but wonder why he's given this interview now. 3DOR has only a couple more weeks to go (after the Xmas break) and surely doesn't need any publicity now. He didn't give any interviews for MLSF or SLOW. Perhaps he only does interviews when put under pressure...Harvey for SIL, and in this case, I think, Carlton TV for TTOTS. Good news about The Late Review Best Play for 3DOR, Lizza. They can be extremely snooty and picky. That's praise indeed!

3DOR has only a couple more weeks to go (after the Xmas break) and surely doesn't need any publicity now. au contraire (or how ever that is spelled) The play AND Colin need lots of publicity now, to make sure he gets an Olivier nomination. I'm sure the ballots will be due within a couple of weeks of the beginning of the year.

To All: I could use your help -- A visitor to my AMITC site has asked me the source for: "And he shal com with woundes rede To deme the quikke and the dede...." From Moon's observation on the wall painting in AMITC. Is it Chaucer? Who is it? I'd appreciate any help. I've done every quote engine there is, and cannot get it. J. L. Carr himself tells no source for it in the book. Thanks for anything you can come up with. Murph

On CF's interview: The "nasty school" was in St. Louis, I believe. And as Eileen said, it is so good to see Will finally arriving at a sensible age. He quotes Livia a couple of times. That's nice. If I saw him in the supermarket, I'd holler too! All we have are harried moms and old folk. He does love those old comfortable outfits. Remember when he chose those harlequin pants when they were being discarded from some theatrical group? And could he be doing publicity also for TOTS and Channel 4, though the interviwer only mentions that once? Murph

Mary, it's Chaucer, Troiles and Cressida.

Thanks so much, Laura. Are you guys bright or what? Murph

Just noticed that the IMDB has added a feature called "Box Office and Business Data." Looked up MLSF and it shows the weekly figures through 9/12 for the US. MLSF had grossed $616,310. Not too shabby for only 20-22 reels! FP only showed $2,519 for the three screens in the NY area for that opening weekend of October 17. Nothing shown for SLOW.

From The Telegraph: New Pic? Same Camden Market jacket.

Happy Christmas and New Year everyone.

Happy Christmas and New Year everyone.

Karen, After the way he spoke of the play in that article: "Though it didn't reveal itself to me completely in the initial readings, now I think it's a really major work." , the first thing I thought of was that that was exactly how the play had revealed itself to us during the discussion, and: "I hope they're going to go through with getting a copy of the 3DoR discussion to him; I'm sure he'd really be interested." Are you still pursuing the idea?

I think I'm giving up on Lady Viola's Favorite Men site. CF was 1200 votes ahead this morning, and tonight it's down to 450. The AA people seem to be able to get votes at will, while I'm plodding along at 5 votes per sign on! Bah Humbug!!

Evelyn, we've seen the top part of that pic before in color, but never the full shot to my knowledge. Lynn, don't give up! I was just there voting a couple of times and each time did about 20 votes. Don't have a clue why. I think the AA people (a handful actually) keep hanging up and calling back.

Thank you for the picture, Evelyn. Don't you think he looked cold? The jacket must not be warm enough ;-)

Don't you think he looked cold? The jacket must not be warm enough ;-) I think he looks like a homeless person about to be confronted by Rudy Giuliani. The guy is too thin anyway. ~~~~~ Good girl, Lynn for persevering on those poll websites...I gave up a year ago. I think they're all rigged. (**evelyn being v. cynical**) ~~~~~~ As far as I know KJ, the plan is still to hand carry the 3 DOR discussion. If not Moon will haunt us. Yeah, I think we got the gist of that play before he did.

I think Lady Viola got her message thru with the note at the bottom just above the vote. She's taking those who have been at the top before off after this month. I think she means she doesn't want them in her little Hall Of Fame. It would explain lot.

Thank you 3 deers for your lovely Xmas page , all those sentiments are sent right back to you. I will have to have my daily fix! Murph thanks to you for that gorgeous Xmas log and Happy Holidays to you. It never ceases to amaze me, the versatility and inventiveness of such sites. A special thank you for all your hard work in 1999 Ladies to bring Colin to us in his many wonderful guises.

Merry Christmas everyone. Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and New Year. Three weeks today I fly to London - what a Christmas present!!! Thanks to everyone for all the info/photos/comments you bring to us via this list. I would rarely hear anything about Colin if it wasn't for you guys. Cathey

Looking forward to meeting you Cathey, until then have a great time! Merry Christmas to you.

Meluchie has done a tremendous job of grabbing some DVD images from FEVER PITCH DVD..available only in the UK now...this summer in the US. Check it out. http://members.xoom.com/morgaine/Fever_Pitch/feverpitch10.html Thanks Mel....Murph....3 Deers....Karen -in- the- boots.... Ann ...Bethan...Allison.... for keeping us informed of the latest Colin news...enhancing his past projects.. and everybody....for the million laughs. It's been a Firthrate Year. Let's hope the Firthcoming one will be even better.

I'm off to my Mom's for Christmas, so I just wanted you to know that I'll miss terribly all the informative, entertaining, witty, and insightful comments from all of you. But I'll be back next week and have lots of good reading ahead in the form of catching up with your posts. Can't wait to read what you have to note on "The Turn of the Screw". So -- "Joyeux Noel"!

(Karen) Evelyn, we've seen the top part of that pic before in color, but never the full shot to my knowledge That's from the post-speaker-falling-on-head photo shoot. We've seen a couple of shots throughout the year, but never this "hey, it's freezing in here" gem. (Evelyn) I think he looks like a homeless person about to be confronted by Rudy Giuliani. Hee hee! I'll wager Livia has found a way to separate Colin from that jacket by now ;-) (Evelyn) Good girl, Lynn for persevering on those poll websites...I gave up a year ago. I think they're all rigged. I think we should start our own poll site for the new year. The slate of candidates could look something like this: - Colin Firth - Firth, Colin - C. Firth - Colin Frith - Rudy Giuliani - My garbage [dust]man Waddaya think? :-D

There's a not-so-good readout of Blackadder Back and Forth in today's Guardian, based on a preview audience's reaction. Maybe someone could post?;-) (Evelyn) I think he looks like a homeless person about to be confronted by Rudy Giuliani. LOL! That's *not* a position one would want to be in! To me, it's from the same photo session that People mag used in the brief CF blurb when MLSF came out. Had a green background, I think it's on someone's website. Ann, l enjoyed your story about your son's conversation with Colin, and your interesting comments on the change in his Walker interpretation. I suppose actors get itchy playing the same role night after night, and maybe the temptation is there to fix what is not broken.;-)

(Eileen) - Colin Firth - Firth, Colin - C. Firth - Colin Frith - Rudy Giuliani - My garbage [dust]man Everything depends on what your dustman looks like??? Are those his legs among the spilled bin contents at the top of the page?

(Mari) There's a not-so-good readout of Blackadder Back and Forth in today's Guardian, based on a preview audience's reaction. Not surprising based on the article Ann had sent me from The Times. Many comments were somewhat apologetic about the film, not up to their usual quality level, but "hey, it's for the silly Dome." Will go dig that up. Here's the couple of paragraphs in the Guardian today: http://www.filmunlimited.co.uk/News_Story_Front/0,4057,,00.html Blackadder given thumbs down by millennium audience A preview audience has been less kind, however, to Blackadder Back and Forth, the film version of Rowan Atkinson's popular historical sitcom, Blackadder. The film is the centrepiece of the celebrations at the millennium dome on New Year's Day, but it failed to ignite the imagination of an audience invited to a sneak preview last week. In the film, Atkinson's character Blackadder goes travelling through time in an improvised time machine, encountering historical characters along the way. During the course of his travels, he steals Shakespeare's Hamlet in order to spare future generations from Kenneth Branagh playing the role. Which, in our book, means the film can't be all that bad. ******hee hee, liked that last line! ;-)

...Blackadder given thumbs down by millennium audience I don't care...maybe they'll let us stay for more than one showing now. ~~~~~~ BTW I was wondering if our UK friends would be willing to go to Chat for a few minutes aft TTOTS on the 26th and give us the scoop...like we did aft the A&E interview a year ago.Dumb idea? How many on both sides of the pond would be interested in attending? What time GMT does TTOTS end? ~~~~~~~ In the new year let's make a concerted effort to utilize that chat room for CF topics. Sometimes, we could even take film discussions there.

Good idea, Evelyn. It's on at 9 pm and will be over at 11. That's 5 pm Central (and chatroom) time or 6 pm Eastern.

That's a good idea, Evelyn. I haven't been in the chat room since...since...I can't remember when. Don't know if I can make the 26th but I'll try. I'm looking forward to hearing reactions to TTOTS. PS. Cymbeline, you shock me ;-D ! Here's a hint: my garbage man is a cross between Ricky Martin and the beast in Beauty and the Beast.

Would love to attend on26th but won't be able to, also have to video TOTS but would be willing to go into chat at another time when I have seen it.

Just a thought for the New Year celebration and have to spit it out: I don't how many people make their New Year wishes (I sometimes do but never achieve them). This year, I'd like to make my New Year wishes for ODB, anybody wants to join me? I probably should go back to my little corner to mumble myself.

I'm with you Xian and my wish for Colin is that he does play Flashman and that we have six lovely episodes to watch this time next year!! Evelyn, if my visitors leave in time I shall be very happy to come to CHAT but can't say for sure. I will of course video TTOTS, I will add it to the recording of The Survival Appeal.

(Eileen) Here's a hint: my garbage man is a cross between Ricky Martin and the beast in Beauty and the Beast. Which parts of which? If he also shares the characteristics of the philosopher/garbageman in Dilbert, I think we might have a serious contender for Hall of Fame fave.

11PM sounds kinda'late for UK types to go into Chat.But we can give it a shot and see who can make it. ~~~~~~ How about Monday the 27th 9PM GMT which is 4PM Eastern, and 3 PM Central. Ann, Lizza...Bethan...anybody over there can you go to Chat?

A very Happy Christmas Season to all.

A very merry Christmas to one and all! I'm not sure about Chat but will certainly give a report on TTOTS.

If you'd like an explanation of what is going on at the Lady Viola voting site, go to this place and read the messages. It will tell you what they are doing and how they are doing it. http://clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/anthonyandrewsfanclub What disgusts me to no end is that one of the people is belongs to another Firth fan group, but has been voting nearly on a nightly basis for 2-3 hrs for Anthony Andrews. If you have AOL, you can switch names and keep on voting forever... It's the great cheating device we've wondered about. And to think I sent that woman a picture of Colin from March... :-(

- My garbage [dust]man Everything depends on what your dustman looks like??? Are those his legs among the spilled bin contents at the top of the page? *********** Cymbeline and all: Rufus Sewell was once a dust man. Mine look nothing like him! CF built furniture??? After reading that he puts his hand in a lamp socket, and gets hit in the face trying to put up a stereo shelf, I'd love to see what the furniture looked like! But then, we know his talents lie elsewhere, don't we? HAPPY HOLIDAYS again to all around this nice place. Murph

CF built furniture??? After reading that he puts his hand in a lamp socket, and gets hit in the face trying to put up a stereo shelf, I'd love to see what the furniture looked like! I am increasingly convinced that ODB, in common with most actors, has ever-so slight a tendency to exaggerate.

What disgusts me to no end is that one of the people is belongs to another Firth fan group, but has been voting nearly on a nightly basis for 2-3 hrs for Anthony Andrews I've just been to that Anthony Andrews Yahoo fan club.The strategy confirms what I have suspected all along; pure larceny.And I recognized the email address of the perpetrator.And bragging about voting against ODB!!Frankly, IMO we should do what Nan did last year when this occured on another site....ask them to remove Colin's name from the competition. And then ask her to resign from Springfolks.

(Murph) Rufus Sewell was once a dust man. In real life? If there is such a thing. CF built furniture??? After reading that he puts his hand in a lamp socket, and gets hit in the face trying to put up a stereo shelf, I'd love to see what the furniture looked like! Now, now, we all have bad days. Oh, ye of little faith. If we don't have confidence in him, who will? Certainly not those traitors on the Anthony Andrews site.

Happy Christmas ('fraid that's what we still call it over here;-)), everybody! I know that I shall not be able to make it to chat and may not even be able to watch TTOTS on Sunday but I shall tape it.

I am back from my wonderful two weeks in London. With Christmas upon us, I have not had a chance to catch up on the posts but will do so when I find a moment and then post my impressions of 3DOR and SLOW and tell you about my encounter with ODB. To everyone, Cheers and a very Happy Christmas.

Welcome back, Lynda. We'd love to hear about your viewings of El Firth and your *encounter* with same. :-0 Cymbeline, a dustman is a garbage man. We have them here. Don't you? ;-)

Can't wait to hear your report Lynda.

(Karen) Cymbeline, a dustman is a garbage man. We have them here. Don't you? ;-) Yes---Murph said Rufe was once a dustman, and I asked in real life (as opposed to just acting one). I have seen him as a bus driver, a farmer, an Italian senator, and the strange person in Dark City, but not as a dustman. I guess I should go to her site and find out. And I see this is off topic and should be on Odds and Ends. I don't know how I got onto it over here. I've stuck my finger into the wrong socket. A thousand apologies. Help! I'm going now.

CF built furniture??? After reading that he puts his hand in a lamp socket, and gets hit in the face trying to put up a stereo shelf,I'd love to see what the furniture looked like! (Murph) Ah, but at least he tries to be handy!! If I mentioned in our household that our spotlights needed re-angling, or I wanted some shelves/speakers mounted, it would fall on deaf ears! Welcome back Lynda! Do tell! Just saw a preview of a few dramas coming up in next year's television. Vronsky in "Anna Karenina" will be played by Kevin McKidd (blonde frizzy hair, ex "Trainspotting") which doesn't thrill me...not Stephen Dillane. Also Channel 4 are just about to start casting for Evelyn Waugh's "Sword of Honour" trilogy, which we can expect to see this autumn. I like the speedy turnaround on TV work...definitely the way forward (not Brit films!) Still hoping for "Flashman"! ("Sword of Honour" is also a good prospect.) Back to peeling the sprouts!

Lynda, looking forward wth bated breath to your report from London. Evelyn, 9pm on Monday sounds a better option for me. Happy Christmas and much Festive relaxation and cheer to everyone, whatever you do. Here's to the wonderful drool and its delightful posters in the next Millennium.

OK so Boxing Day at 11PM GMT 3PM CT, 4 PM ET.is not a good option. But you guys can get together anyway.That's my Movie-rama Day. But if Lizza and hopefully Ann can make it on Monday let's *Do It*! 9 PM GMT, 4 PM ET, 3 PM CT.. you kids on the west Coast and Hawaii...figure it down from Central. Telegraph was wrong on SD...said he was filming Anna K. Makes me feel better. Heard that RF is doing a Pushkin program with Felicity Kendall for BBC1 though.. Does he have to do everything? :-(

Rufus was a dustman once in real life, Cymbeline. He has mentioned that in a couple of articles. Hey, I was only kidding about CF being less than perfect around the house. Like Bethan, I'm lucky if my husband can even find the circuit breaker box! At least Colin tries. Murph OT: Any discussion of Mr. Ripley going on anywhere at Spring? I plan to see it tomorrow. Rave reviews coming in. A great book, BTW.

Murph, let's do Mr. Ripley (hmm, didn't come out sounding how I meant it;-) on Topic 127 Odds and Ends. I'm going to try to see it Sunday, but will be anxious to hear your readout whenever. Am looking forward to hearing all about TTOTS--I've got company on Monday so will miss the chat, but hopefully you will all post your thoughts here too. Lynda, let's hear all about your Donmar trip! I wish a very Merry (and Happy!) Christmas to all here who celebrate it. You are a lovely group and I thank you for welcoming me so warmly this year.

I hope to be at Chat on Monday Evelyn. Glad you and Murph joined our happy throng Mari. Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year to everyone.

Does anybody know where he is? Did he go to Rome? I'll try to join you Monday--good idea. Let's definitely do TTMR--terrific reviews and great locations. I'm talking my family into seeing it. MDH said, Is he in it, that Simon Birch or whoever it is you like, my rival? Oh dear--I had no idea what effect this whole drool thing was having. I really keep pretty quiet about it.

Will see you all in chat on Monday. Loads of trailers for TOTS currently. Today's Guardian describes Colin as "dashing" and mentions sexual repression too Most unusually there are also verbal trailers without any footage! It's great to hear his name so much, althou' very misleading as we have said before.

OK...we're on for Monday in chat.9PM GMT and 4 PM ET. Thanks Lizza and Ann...you're pivotal! What we don't go through for ten minutes of ODB ~~~~~~ I'm gonna see Mr. Ripley on Sunday too.Gotta support Anthony Minghella and hope he casts Colin sometime :-D. Let's do discussion on #127. ~~~~~~ Murph and Mari: It has been great fun having you both active at Spring this year.We always enjoy your postings...news, comments ...whatever. ~~~~ Most of this was OT but I did it all on one thread:-D

F r � h l i c h e W e i h n a c h t e n and a peaceful and happy New Year to you all. *********************************************** Please, everyone, don't take this voting thing so seriously, in particular since it is obviously just a matter of how much time you spend with robot voting. You can employ your time much better I should think. And why is everybody so keen to vote on that ladyviola booth - there a several other pages where you could add Colin, or where he is already listed! Also, it is ridiculously easy to create your own booth. Call it "Favourite British Man", or whatever, and create your own rules, let the AA fans come to you ;-). http://www.freevote.com/ Having said thus, there's still my Colin Roles voting booth: http://www.freevote.com/booth/renate Whatever you vote, Colin will always win. :) ********* Since you were discussing dustmen but didn't mention ODB I can only assume that you are not aware that he also was in the dustbin business very early in his career....

Such a voting booth does already exist, for favourite british actors: http://www.freevote.com/booth/hotbrits Colin had 6! votes - now he has 11, two less than his little brother, tsk, tsk

I spent (?wasted?) An inordinate amount of time going back over that Anthony Andrews site that Karen pointed out and I discovered that if you go back far enough you begin to see that they are just like us. Right at the beginning, complaining that the place was rigged, strange unexplainable surges in "the other guy"'s vote counts. Oh, they should give up and not waste time. Oh, write the "lady" (who they concluded ain't no lady) about that and about the horrible color scheme, and they should not only stop voting but withdraw their favorite's name from the competition, etc., etc. (Where have we heard THAT before, hmmm?) But there was one major difference between their tone and ours, especially later when they decided to persevere ... the site sounds like one long pep talk. Not a day goes by when numerous messages are passed on to remind to vote, to give a hard-headed vote-count to the faithful, to commend the participants. In spite of being behind many times, they kept on, instead of indulging in pessamistic gloom. They (like so many) are totally unaware of Colin's work or popularity. Also of the number of his fans ("Don't those Firth people ever sleep?" one complained well into the fray -- hee hee!! 8-D) or how wide-spread we are. We are the ones underestimating ourselves!! I'm willing to bet we've got 4 times the number of online followers as A.A. has (bless his soul) but we DON'T pull together like they are doing, and we discourage too easily as they continue to give each other moral support. We are aware of and have every trick they know about at our disposal... they just apply them more often. You wanna see outrageous surges in vote counts?? Then provide them. And provide them. And provide them. Colin's fans never sleep because we're around the world in every time zone. The race goes to those who don't flag at the end of the contest, or discourage at the drop of a vote percentage. So VOTE!, VOTE!, VOTE! End of pep talk! And while you're at it, pay some attention to Renate's site when you're waiting to get in again ... I'd hate to see Ross T. end up as the second most popular character after Fitzwilliam Darcy, due to some twisted visionary's persistence (there's that word again!), but I'm fighting a lonely battle here and could use some reinforcements! And Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All the Firthful!!

There's an article with George McDonald Fraser on This is London. It's entertaining, but no Colin mention (and the political views of these two men are not very likely to meet anywhere, IMO). "Flashman's George vents his anger" http://www.thisislondon.com/dynamic/index.html Kjart, interesting what you write about the AA fans. They can't be all that bad if they like a British actor even less known than ODB outside of the UK. ;-) I think we should rather make friends with them, perhaps swap links. Meanwhile, let's vote for Colin ;-). On the Colin roles I have voted for Tom Birkin, but that means I have to abandon poor Stephen. I seem to be the only one to vote for Stephen! Come to think of it, what about a film discussion about MOTM, perhaps after we are all back from London?

(Evelyn)From The Telegraph: New Pic? (Xian)Don't you think he looked cold? The jacket must not be warm enough ;-) My thoughts exactly! Wouldn't we all volunteer to warm him up? ;-) (Lynn Davis)I think I'm giving up on Lady Viola's Favorite Men site Hon, what took you so long? :-P (Evelyn)I think we got the gist of that play before he did Never tell him that! (Evelyn)IMO we should do what Nan did last year when this occured on another site....ask them to remove Colin's name from the competition. And then ask her to resign from Springfolks Ask her, you say? ;-) (KJArt)VOTE!, VOTE!, VOTE! KJ, I'm impressed! You would be great in politics!

KJ, you're quite right about the AA fans' attitude and desire to persevere, the cheerleading, etc. Other than our posting the voting booth url periodically here at Drool and at the Chatroom, I know of no other Colin site which promoted it. However, the most unfortunate thing is that the charge was led by another Colin fan, who many people know. They feel betrayed. I myself do not hide my liking for other actors (and my disliking for some. However, if I saw Colin's name in a listing, I would never ever consider for one second voting for someone else, let alone spend hours a night doing so. With hindsight (i.e., knowing that the booth owner is taking the top 3 names off regardless of outcome at the end of the month), I woul have waited until Colin had won in due course and then had Anthony Andrews name put on the ballot. Then, in all good conscience, I could even ask my Colin friends to help out with the voting. Ah... but that's all hindsight. ;-) Don't worry, I haven't given up voting, but I know some people have. :-(

(Renate)Please, everyone, don't take this voting thing so seriously, I'm not...in fact I don't to vote on any site. The part that riles me is that a Colin fan from this website was a traitor in situ. Now the List people might think she's cute, and admire her"commitment" but I think she's at the bottom of the food chain. I'm committed to Jennifer too, but if she and Colin were in competition in a poll,(v. unlikely). I would refrain from voting rather than betray my friends. Loyalty to Spring is a priority for me. ~~~~~ (KJArt).... going back over that Anthony Andrews site that Karen pointed out and I discovered that if you go back far enough you begin to see that they are just like us..... Leave me out of that "us", KJ.

a Colin fan from this website was a traitor in situ Evelyn, she doesn't come here. Anyway, I'm done talking about. What's done, is done and everyone's entitled to his/her opinions. boo hoo... Hotmail has disappeared off the face of the earth since late this morning!

As of about 6:20 tonight, Ladyviola got so angry at the (I guess insulting) communications and attitude from the Anthony Andrews group that she's frozen the vote and removed A.A. (Leaving CF on top). She hasn't actually declared a winner for December, though. (I'd hate to think of all that effort from so many fans going for naught). But it is a relief to be able to free up the rest of December for more weighty matters, eh? Thanx for that Hotbrits URL, Renate ...I think I'll transfer some of my attention there ... impractical, I know, but it hurts to see ODB so low on such a long list ... Evelyn, by "us" I was only seeing the similarity of fans appreciating the object of their affection to such an extent as to go to extraordinary lengths for him. I admire the "togetherness" of that group, but I do not necessarily admire the type of tactics practiced by INDIVIDUALS belonging to that group. I think all fan groups would end up with a bad reputation if their image was defined solely by some select minority of their membership. There's always one or more rotten apples in any barrel, but that is no reflection on the group as a whole or the object of their affection.

Happy Boxer Day in England. Can't wait until tomorrow (or later tonight over here) to hear how our Colin was. Tell all, please. Murph

Boxing Day Murph. Apparently according to my aged mother-in-law it goes back to the times when landed gentry gave their servants Christmas Boxes, the day after Christmas Day. Saw the first five minutes of TTOTS and recorded the rest, what a let down even for a cameo role. so little of ODB, oh well. His hair is very poofy!! (not sure if that is the right word) and I wish someone had helped him tie his tie. Will watch the rest romorrow.

But his voice was sublime and his manner more than engaging!! Ok so I saw 10 seconds on my rewind but it was worth a glimpse. More tomorrow

The sideburns were interesting in profile!!

Pouffy hair?! Just what I was dreading.;-) At least the voice is intact. Lizza, I'm afraid to find out what was so interesting about the sideburns in profile. Thanks, Ann and Lizza, for checking in. Details tomorrow?

The sideburns, yes well!! - thank goodness for those lovely eyes!! -- and that voice. Now if only we could have him in something where he is on our screens for the entire 2 hours!! I really do think that it was very misleading to people who did not know, to introduce it as "starring Jodhi May, Pam Fereris & Colin Firth" -I mean it was barely 5 mins. Any CF fans not in the know will be sorely disappointed.

Not one of my favourite CF looks, but any port in a storm!!

Barely five minutes? So then I take it no sexy dreams from the Miss. Well, at least Henry James isn't rolling in his grave.

I'd recorded it and have just watched it. It was very true to the book, lots of dialogue directly transferred. Good production. Excellent photography. Under 5 minutes of CF, I'd say. Literally the opening scene. Have very mixed feelings about it. I would really prefer not to see him in any more cameos, especially on television and especially after Darcy. Cameos may be okay in Oscar winning movies, but on television he should go for a leading role in a major production or nothing at all! Voice, eyes, smile were all great, but I prefer his hair brown and natural!

No sexy dreams, but she wanders round his empty bedroom, strokes his clothes in the wardrobe, gazes at his portrait and picks irises (the flowers he smells in the interview scene). Obviously very smitten.

In case I sounded too negative, it's a classy production, with an intelligent screenplay and faithful adaptation by Nick Dear. The sexual repression of the governess and the knowingness of the precocious children are well portrayed. It will, I'm sure, get good reviews.

When in the book does she go into his bedroom? Did I miss that part?

(AnnW)The sideburns, yes well!! - thank goodness for those lovely eyes!! LOL, Ann! Does this fall under the category of "if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all?" Now I'm really frightened to see those sideburns ;-).

Thanks all for your prompt reports about TOTS. she ....... gazes at his portrait How was the portrait? Hope they didn't use the same painter as in P&P. :-/ Ann, Boxing Day was renamed into, yes, Boxers Day? ;-) But we haven't fixed dates for Breeches Day yet, or Wet Shirt Week.

sorry I missed the joke Murph and thanks for enlightening me, Renate.

Well done UK fans. Chat Room Today: Thanks to Ann and Lizza who have consented to be our TTOTS Reporters. Hope Bethan and Allison can make it too. 9 PM GMT 4PM ET 3 PM CT ~~~~~~~~ (Ann) Any CF fans not in the know will be sorely disappointed. Well, they could have gone to see 90 minutes of him in SLOW which apparently not many did!

I much preferred the painting of him in this as it is a good likeness and having watched it today, it is an excellent production all round, as has been said. His look does "grow" on you, and having seen 3 DOR recently, the familiarity of him is quite tantalising. Gi, have you secretly been at work on his hair? But I do agree about the "cameo" thing. It is also frustrating in the sense "now you see him, now you don't". See you all later.

Our phoneline seems to be constantly in use at the moment so I don't think I'll be able to join Chat but I'll post my thoughts off-line and see if I get the chance to submit! Firstly, TOTS is a very good production, crisply edited with contrasting use of light and dark locations and photography. Nick Dear's screenplay is very true to the book, often using the exact dialogue from the text, and relects the ambiguities....also explains the expresssion "the turn of the screw". It will certainly meet with the approval of Henry James' fans...but the "horror" might be too subtle for the "Scream" generation. It's not really a horror story, or even a ghost story... it is more about s xual repression and (I think) a certain precosity in the children, certainly in Miles, who seems very mature for his age. The film opens with the suicide (by drowning) of the previous governess. The Master's role is a cameo one, but his presence is there throughout the film. The governess admits that she has fallen for him, and Mrs Gross says something along he lines of "You won't be the first or last" and later on she says that "He liked them (governesses) young and pretty." Flora, the young girl, (deliberately?) shows Miss the Master's bedroom. Miss later on enters the room, looks at the bed and then strokes the clothes in the wardrobe. At this point, you might start wondering whether the Master is responsible for the previous governess' suicide, but then the apparition of Peter Quint appears, and the story takes a different tack. The children seem fond of their uncle...they want him to come down to join them, and the little girl says he is "sweet" and the boy talks about going to London to see him. This seemed a slight weakness in the screenplay, (and novel)...why is he so determined not to be involved in the affairs of th children, when he has obviously gone to a lot of trouble on their behalf? My initial reaction to TOTS was coloured, as usual, by cameo-itis, and I wasn't really sure about CF's appearance. He always looks different and it takes me time to adjust. I think they were going for the Victorian gentleman look, which means sideboards (although not those awful fuzzy mutton chop whiskers, thank goodness) which don't look real to me, and a lot of dark styled hair. I guess I just prefer him with his natural colouring and hair! Also (really nit-picking here!) they've given him a soft collar and a very untidy necktie, and his shoulders look too broad for the frock coat. Having said all that, eyes, voice and smile are all very much up to scratch! The portrait is also, as Lizza says, a good likeness! There's a lull in the phone use, so I'll try to go back on-line for a second and submit!

I agree about the clothes Bethan, the coat seemed one size too big and the collar and tie were very untidy , however, he is such a chameleon, how does he do it, he looks so different in everything he does. He is never Colin Firth acting Colin Firth, he is Colin Firth acting whoever and so convincingly. The only good thing imo about the cameo role is that it has put in the the TV eye again and perhaps next time he will have the starring role. It seems incredible that he has only done Nostromo since P&P. no wonder people write to Teletext/Ceefax saying they are getting Firth withdrawal syptoms, I can sympathise.

An FOF sent me to this link for TOTS. Nice interview with CF. Thanks, Bethan and Anne, for your comments.- Murph ******************************* Colin Firth Plays The Master Colin Firth is set to charm viewers with his portrayal of another classic literary character in The Turn of the Screw. He wooed thousands as the dashing Mr Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, now he's back in period costume to play the charismatic Master in Henry James' famous ghost story. "The characterisation of the Master is very much a creation of this adaptation. In the book he is a presence by implication. But the young governess is so motivated by her feelings for him that we have tried to establish that relationship in this adaptation," explains Colin. "It is one of the most argued over books of this century. Are the ghosts real, or is the governess psychotic. The Master manipulates this girl and tries to make use of what he perceives as his power to exploit her vulnerability." But he admits he is not a fan of watching costume drama. "Despite my reputation for costume drama, I am not drawn to watching it on television. But I have not steered away from it as a result of playing Darcy. I don't want to be held hostage to that. If I am offered something irresistible, and it means wearing a costume like Darcy's, then I will do it," says Colin. "In some ways there is more artifice in wearing modern dress than period costume. If I am putting on breeches, I know I am putting on a costume. If I am putting on jeans and a t-shirt for a role you have to be more specific. They're not my jeans and t-shirt. When we made Fever Pitch for instance we had to decide whether black jeans were in vogue at that time." Colin says he certainly found the Henry James story irresistible. "I love The Turn of the Screw. I love the mystery of it. When ghost stories are told well, they are brilliant. But they are incredibly rare. It is a perpetually misjudged form of story telling. "The Turn of the Screw is one of the models of ghost story telling. It is a gripping portrait of a person's psychology. The overwhelming majority of people who attempt such stories fall into the trap of wanting to explain everything. The golden rule of ghost stories is don't reveal all. And that is the beauty of this Henry James story." Colin recalls reading the book, and watching the chilling film The Haunting. The terrifying Don't Look Now, is one of his favourite films, he says. "I like the mood of a ghost story. It is perfect for a wintry night, sitting by the fire, watching a ghost story which gives you a chill and provokes the imagination. If I am here at Christmas that is what I will be watching,"says Colin. He says he doesn't believe in ghosts, but admits he had some "uncanny and inexplicable" experiences. "When I was a teenager I dreamt up all sorts of things, but as I've got older I've found explanations for those experiences." The son of two university lecturers, Colin spent the first four years of his life in Nigeria, before the family moved to England. He has a younger brother and sister, Jonathan and Kate, who are also actors. Inspired by his grandmother's performances in amateur theatre, Colin decided as a teenager to become an actor. He trained at the London Drama Centre. When he left he was cast as Tommy Judd, in the stage and screen versions of Another Country. Colin quickly earned a reputation for versatility and has played a wide range of roles including a Falklands veteran in Tumbledown, John McCarthy in Hostages, an Arsenal supporter in Fever Pitch, Lord Wessex in Shakespeare in Love, and the cuckolded officer in The English Patient. Colin has had a busy year making four feature films, due for release in 2000. He plays the title role in Donovan Quick. His other films are My Life So Far, Londinium, and Relative Values. He is currently starring in Richard Greenberg's Three Days of Rain at the Donmar Warehouse with Elizabeth McGovern and David Morrissey. Away from acting Colin has developed a passionate concern for the plight of refugees, and offers his help to support groups all over Britain. "The arbitrary detention of refugees is a source of appalling shame. It is shocking that refugees should be arrested when they have committed no crime. They should be treated as heroes when they have managed to flee their own countries and cross several continents to find refuge,"says Colin. Turn of the Screw

(Bethan).why is he so determined not to be involved in the affairs of th children, when he has obviously gone to a lot of trouble on their behalf When I read the book....(and there are some scholars who agree...but more of that later as we discuss it on #98..)I felt that the Master knew of the "special relationship" between the governess and the children(read: pedophile). ~~~~~ A Big Thanks to Ann and Lizza who were gracious enough to come to Chat and be "grilled" on TTOTS.(*clap, clap*) We had 9 to 11 on board at one time. Good Show. Now we can't wait for Feb. 27th.

Just had a quick TOTS replay and as Bethan says the costume is not fitting , the waistcoat is almost voluminous on him, but we do get a good deal of facial close ups. I would say about 4 minutes max (I had meant to time it) of ODB. will try and time it to give a more exact picture for you. Makes the hype of a "starring role " and the billing all the more amazing! Evelyn, we much enjoyed your company on Chat tonight, thanks everyone who was able to support Ann and myself. :@))

Just timed ODB in TOTS and he is actually on screen for LESS than 4 minutes. Althou' his voice is heard later on, briefly, reading out a letter, we don't see him again. Hope this helps to put it in context for you, those of you who have not yet seen it.

Sorry I missed you all. Company (my daughter) here this afternoon. Can't wait until February either. The TOTS story is always compelling, and seeing CF even briefly will be a bonus. Murph

Good details, Bethan, Lizza, and Ann. I actually can't think of anything else to ask you! Although he's in it for such a short time, I'm glad you think the production is worth seeing through its entirety. Looks like my power tape of TOTS will easily fit on the same cassette as The Secret Garden. ;-) Chat was fun. Thanks girls!

I would like to have been in the chat room this p.m. but my son and his family were leaving at 6:00 and I wanted to spend as much time with my 2 grandsons as possible

Review of TTOTS from Monday's Times: "At two hours, The Turn of the Screw (ITV, Boxing Day) had the opposite problem. Henry James's story relies on generating a supernatural frisson, and the two children, Miles and Flora, had a perfect blend of innocence and sinister precocity. Perhaps it was because the evil, malevolent ghost of Peter Quint reminded me of Wurzel Gummidge. Perhaps it was because Jodhi May as the Governess went through the film with her mouth ajar and was clearly bonkers, but the hairs on the back of my neck refused to stand p. Her anguish was plain. Was she really seeing ghosts? Were the children possessed? "For heaven's sake, woman," I shouted at her, "phone a friend" ~~~~~~ For US fans I understand the latter phrase refers to the show "How to be a Millionaire"in the UK where the contestants are allowed to "call a friend". ( Hee, hee) But who is Wurzel Gummidge?

Hair comparison time and even coordinating vests!! ;-)

Hmmm, well come to think of it I've never seen the Master and Richard in the same place at the same time. Karen, you may be on to something! Everyone said that CF seemed to be walking home from the Donmar. Perhaps he was sweatin' to the oldies ;-).

The Times TV reviewer was the same one who who made disparaging comments about Jodhi May in his preview review. All other previews were very good! Sorry to have missed Chat...too much competition for the phoneline!

OT but I wanted you to know I saw Valmont for the first time last sunday evening, and loved it. Colin is so droolable, and plays such an interesting character. I had seen Dangerous Liaisons and must watch it again for comparison. I seem to remember Malkovitch's Valmont as a much more malevolent character, while Colin's is just childish. He hurts women because he does not even realize they have feelings. I am not excusing him, BTW! Annette Benning was fantastic (and beautiful) and her character totally believable. Is Meg Tilly of asian descent? Is ODB attracted to foreign women? Do I stand a chance? (;-)Just kidding)