Odds and Ends - Part 5

Sorry, guys, that we haven't had our board available all day to post any Valentines, so I just took a digital snappy of how I feel:

Bwahahahaha! Picturing Karen at the Donmar waiting for ODB in the lobby :-D BTW, who does your hair? Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

I would have known you anywhere;-) Thanks Boss.Happy Valentine's from lots of grateful Drooleurs.

Bwahahahaha! Picturing Karen at the Donmar waiting for ODB in the lobby :-D BTW, who does your hair? Who did your dress? ;-) LOL! I hope everyone had a choco-filled Valentine's Day! I read this today and he me LOL! I think we can guess which sign Bond girl is ;-) You a Gemini? Drive carefully and get insurance SYDNEY, Feb 11 (Reuters) - Born a Gemini? Watch out on the roads and get insurance. Better still, have a Capricorn drive your car. A study released on Monday by Australian financial services group Suncorp Metway Ltd that ranked car accident claimants by star sign found the most accident-prone were Geminis, closely followed by Taureans and then Pisceans. "Geminis, typically described as restless, easily bored and frustrated by things moving slowly, had more car accidents than any other sign," said Warren Duke, Suncorp's national manager of personal insurance. Taureans were thought to be obstinate and inflexible, while Pisceans could be risk-takers and dare devils, he said. Capricorns were the safest behind the wheel due to their patience and careful driving. The light-hearted study was based on 160,000 car accident insurance claims received over the past three years. Suncorp Metway said it had no intention to alter its premiums according to a person's star sign. The company listed car accident claims by star sign as follows, with the most accident-prone at the top: 1. Gemini, May 21-June 21 2. Taurus, April 20-May 20 3. Pisces, February 19-March 20 4. Virgo, August 23-September 22 5. Cancer, June 22-July 22 6. Aquarius, January 20-February 18 7. Aries, March 21-April 19 8. Leo, July 23-August 22 9. Libra, September 23-October 22 10. Sagittarius, November 22-December 21 11. Scorpio, October 23-November 21 12. Capricorn, December 22-January 19

Well that is an interesting study. I'm glad that I'm number 7;)

The OLIVIERS have just been announced. BEST ACTRESS - Lindsay Duncan for Private Lives BEST ACTOR - Roger Allam for Privates On Parade BEST ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL (OR ENTERTAINMENT) - Martine McCutcheon for My Fair Lady BEST ACTOR IN A MUSICAL Philip Quast for South Pacific BEST NEW PLAY - Jitney BEST NEW COMEDY - The Play What I Wrote [Ed note: Congratulations KB!] OUTSTANDING MUSICAL PRODUCTION My Fair Lady BEST DIRECTOR Michael Boyd for Henry VI Parts I, II & III and Richard III

Finally!! Six Feet Under's second season starts in early March. Might be on the 3rd.

and of course, I got rid of HBO!!! argh! have to get it back!

I can't believe it--they actually did the right thing. Congrats to Jamie and David--well deserved!:-) Canadian skating pair awarded gold medal By STEVE WILSTEIN AP Sports Writer February 15, 2002 SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- The Canadian figure skating pair was awarded a gold medal Friday after the sport's top officials uncovered judging misconduct in a controversy that has dominated the Winter Games. The International Skating Union indefinitely suspended Marie-Reine Le Gougne, the French judge in the middle of the dispute. ``She acted in a way that was not adequate to guarantee both pairs equal condition,'' ISU president Ottavio Cinquanta said. ``We have declared misconduct.'' The French judge told the ISU she had been ``submitted to a certain pressure'' from her own skating federation and had signed a statement about how she reached her vote, Cinquanta said. There was no evidence of Russian involvement, he added. ``This pressure resulted in putting this judge in a condition not to give the gold medal'' to the Canadians, Cinquanta said, refusing to give further details about Le Gougne. ``The investigation is not concluded, but we have got enough evidence to take the first decision,'' Cinquanta said, referring to the suspension. He said he hoped to present Jamie Sale and David Pelletier with the gold medal on Thursday before the start of the women's program. The IOC executive committee voted 7-1, with one abstention, to accept the gold medal recommendation from the skating union. ``We took a position that is one of justice and fairness for the athletes,'' Rogge said. The controversy began when Sale and Pelletier were beaten by Elena Berezhnaya and Anton Sikharulidze of Russia in a 5-4 vote that surprised many observers. The Canadians skated flawlessly while the Russians made a few technical errors. The decision allowed the Russians to extend their streak of winning gold in the pairs in every Olympics since 1964. It is the fourth time the IOC has awarded a second gold medal. ``We hope it doesn't happen again,'' Rogge said. The move came just hours before the case was to be heard by an international arbitration panel for sport. Since Monday, there have been reports that Le Gougne was pressured to cast her vote for the Russians. The ISU had planned to review the scoring at a meeting next week, but the deal Friday allowed the matter to be settled in the swift manner the IOC had urged. Canadian officials said all along they didn't want the Russians stripped of the gold medal, but they believed Sale and Pelletier also should be rewarded if evidence of wrongdoing was uncovered. In 1993, the IOC awarded a second gold medal in synchronized swimming from the Barcelona Games to Canada's Sylvie Frechette. The IOC's executive board agreed that Frechette was placed second because of a judging error and should be awarded a gold. The decision came after the Canadian swimming federation protested because a Brazilian judge was not allowed to correct the 8.7 score she mistyped into her computer. The intended 9.7 would have given Frechette the gold. The IOC's decision did not affect Kristen Babb-Sprague of the United States, who was originally awarded the gold and kept her medal.

Hooray for Jamie and David! Proud to be Canadian today, and always. They handled themselves with dignity and grace. I can't imagine how difficult it is to be the hottest media attraction at an event like the Olympics. Kudos to all the athletes, no matter what country you come from! :))

HOORAY!!!! Proud to be Canuck as well! BTW, I found this great article in Newsweek. It's a roundtable of actors who gave fine performances this past year (Sissy, Nicole, Naomi, Billy Bob, Will and Tom) and chat about the movie biz. I would post the whole thing but it is a bit longish and there are some great pics and audio clips as well. http://www.msnbc.com/news/694126.asp

ISU president Ottavio Cinquanta is from Milan. ``submitted to a certain pressure'' from her own skating federation and had signed a statement about how she reached her vote, Cinquanta said. There was no evidence of Russian involvement, he added. I hope they continue to investigate.

(Moon) ISU president Ottavio Cinquanta is from Milan. Doesn't say very much about the Milanese, does it? :-( ~~~~~~~~ Thought this was cute: Oscar hopeful is keeping champagne on ice Full Monty star Tom Wilkinson celebrated his Oscar nomination with a plate of fish cakes. The British actor is in the running for the Best Actor award. But he says he didn't crack open the bubbly when he heard he'd been nominated. "Forget about the champagne. All I wanted was a plate of fish cakes," he told The Mirror. "It's such a great honour to be nominated for an Oscar. "It hasn't really hit me. Half the thrill is the nomination, it is a reward to my going to Hollywood and taking a chance." [my italics] Tom, who played steel mill manager Gerald in The Full Monty, is up for an Oscar for his role in In The Bedroom with Sissy Spacek. But Russell Crowe is bookies' favourite to win and Tom doesn't think he'll win Best Actor. "The competition in my group - oh my goodness. I think I know who is going to win it and his name isn't Tom Wilkinson," he said.

(Moon) ISU president Ottavio Cinquanta is from Milan. (Karen), Doesn't say very much about the Milanese, does it? :-( He is Byzantine, of course, it goes with the territory. They should have made the Russians give back the gold and take the silver. That's the only right way. I hope this gets investigated. I think I know who is going to win it and his name isn't Tom Wilkinson," he said. But you're too busy playing golf in Scotland anyway. ;-)

Well as I haven't seen either movie, I really like Tom Wilkinson and I hope beyond hope, that they recognize him... Russell Crowe won last year... not another Tom Hanks!!! And fish cakes are awesome!!! :)

See the movie (ABM) , Laura, you'll be blown away.I'm not a big RC fan, but his performance in this film is flawless. IMO Tom Wilkinson made the right decision to bolt for Hollywood, but he's awfully lucky to have gotten to the "Top Banana"category so soon. Good choices ;-)

Knew it: Bypassing two of the year's most nominated Oscar movies, the American Society of Cinematographers gave its best feature film photography award to Roger Deakins on Sunday night for his atmospheric black and white work in "The Man Who Wasn't There." Deakins' cinematography for the 1940s-style film noir directed by Joel Coen and co-written by Coen with his brother Ethan has been widely hailed, previously winning an award from the American Film Institute and receiving the film's only Oscar nomination. He beat cinematographers for "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring," which received 13 Oscar nominations, and "Moulin Rouge," which received eight Academy Award nominations.

(Evelyn)IMO Tom Wilkinson made the right decision to bolt for Hollywood, but he's awfully lucky to have gotten to the "Top Banana" category so soon. Good choices ;-) Wasn't he in that Martin Lawrence medieval movie last year :-) It just proves that not only can British actors play a variety of roles (they sing, they dance, they speak other languages!) but if an actor makes a bad film, he can recover his reputation quickly. And success can come at any age. That's always nice to know.

A little something for Moon... Helen Mirren is to star with Dame Maggie Smith in a remake of The Roman Spring Of Mrs Stone. Robert Allen Ackerman will be directing the classic tale in Rome, from Martin Sherman's adaptation of the Tennessee Williams novel. In the 1961 original, an aging actress played by Vivien Leigh found romance in Rome with a gigolo played by Warren Beatty. French newcomer Olivier Martinez, 25, will take Beatty's role. Martinez recently starred in Bullfighter and the still-to-be-seen Unfaithful.

Can we talk??? Joan Rivers heading for the West End Joan Rivers will make six appearances in the West End in April. She will appear at the Haymarket Theatre Royal on April 14, 21 and 28. The 90-minute show will also feature Kit And The Widow, and a celebrity guest.

You know, I completely forgot... THE NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS ARE THE SUPERBOWL CHAMPS!!!! Sorry, just had to gloat;) (even if belated:))

woooohooooo!!!!! Brits just got an Olympic gold!!! I haven't a clue about curling but even I could tell that this was top class sport!! So exciting to watch, and to win on the last stone too!! What a shot!! Congratulations to our team, and commiserations to the Swiss team, and the Canadians who came in third. Classic stuff (and reminds me to get out MLSF where they have a curling match ....)

I am willing to conceed that medal to you, Rach! ;-) Although we didn't deserve it really. I am glad someone other than the favourites (being us, the only country that seems to really want to excel at this sport) won it! As my hubby is a Brit we got a call here around 6pm from a very excited mother-in-law who said the whole country was celebrating as it was the last winter gold since Torvill & Dean! So Congrats to you from one happy household to another (Bravo to our golden hockey girls!)

I haven't a clue about curling but even I could tell that this was top class sport!! I admire your enthusiasm, Rachel! I am glad there are some patriots left in this little island of ours;-) I thought it was right up there with watching paint dry as a spectator sport.

(Allison)I thought it was right up there with watching paint dry as a spectator sport Psst, Allison....A "Gold is a Gold"!! **Congratulations** from your colonial cousins!!

I would just like it duly noted that Paul Ashworth's girlfriend won a well-deserved gold in womens's figure skating last night.;-) (And that's all the "hometown" celebrating I'll do here.;-)

Paul Ashworth's girlfriend *snort* That fact went right by me, and I've only seen FP some *mumble* number of times. (Mari) And that's all the "hometown" celebrating I'll do here.;-) Me too. Some competition, huh? Though IMO it proves again that figure skating is a sport for teens.

Yikes, I knew that name seemed rather familiar. (Think exposure to L-dum has rotten brain) ;-)

IMO it proves again that figure skating is a sport for teens. I believe you have something there, Eileen. Loved her program.

(Rachael)I haven't a clue about curling but even I could tell that this was top class sport!! So exciting to watch, and to win on the last stone too!! A humbled Canadian congratulates you, Rachael. And if you like curling, you should be here where it's on 2 or 3 times a day!! Gah! Not to mention the "Men with Brooms" movie ads that run during the breaks. And I will be going to that movie--Paul Gross is too cute (do ya think he looks a bit Colin-ish?) Yep, lots of curling. But will we see the BAFTAS? Noooo, according to the email I got today from Star!TV. I'm going to go cry now. Excuse me.

Yep, lots of curling. But will we see the BAFTAS? Noooo, according to the email I got today from Star!TV. I'm going to go cry now. Excuse me. Bryonny: Gaaaaahhhhhhh!!! I was wondering if they were going to show it! *wipes tear from eyes* You and me can both cry in our Chardonnay!!! Maybe we'll have a gold on Sunday to cheer us up!

And if you like curling, you should be here where it's on 2 or 3 times a day!! Well, it's been on here too throughout the Olympics! Don't get me started on NBC's coverage. !@#$ games are one time zone over and we still only get to watch highlights (i.e., the top people) during prime time. Strange how the sun was shining at 9:00 at night during the downhill events. But, oh no! Everytime I turned to check what was on CNBC, it was either hockey or curling for hours and hours. I hate this. :-(

I must warn all you dear people to save yourself - save yourself from seeing 'Queen of the Damned'. It was soooo bad. The acting was as wooden as the vampire statues in the film. It was like an even worse MTV video.

Thanks for the warning, Rebecca. I love vampire movies and liked the previews, but I will decline if it is so very bad.

Kate Winslet to wear diamonds to the Baftas Kate Winslet will be wearing �200,000 of diamonds at the Orange British Academy Film Awards. Winslet, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actress, will be wearing a diamond and gold bracelet with matching earrings, created by jewellers Mouawad. Saffron Burrows, who will be a presenter at the awards, will be wearing a �200,000 necklace, made up of marquise and round-cut diamonds, with matching large 5ct diamond stud earrings.

(KarenR)Don't get me started on NBC's coverage.!@#$ I don't really understand why NBC isn't showing coverage during the day. They spent enough for the rights. But you guys did get more of the women's skating than we did. So thank you for that!

Because the soap opera fans would go scream bloody murder if they were preempted for SPORTS for two weeks. Besides, the ratings game is all tied to prime time viewing (7-10 or 8-11, depending on your time zone). I think they could've shown the competitions live during the day and still done their highlight shows at night, as it would be a different audience entirely. But then it goes back to my first statement. ;-) We did see a little special segment last night about curling and how huge it is in Canada. Wonders never cease. I kind of liked Leno's comment about how the medal was won by a Ecuadoran cleaning team. LOL!

Congratulations!! Well done Alain Baxter Britains first ever Olympic alpine medal.

Canadian short track speed skaters--yummy! ;) Congrats to the Canadians for their great perfomance on the ice tonight.

For those in the UK with an aching desire to see some Hamlet in March, the BBC's new digital channel 4 will have the following for free: "So, for example, on March 6, after news and chat, you can watch Peter Brook�s recent production of Hamlet, starring Adrian Lester, then see Brook himself talking about it, followed by a documentary on Playing the Dane."

It's only free if you can afford to spend 4-500 quid on a fancy telly that's set up for digital, or if you already subscribe to a cable or digital package. If you're a mere licence payer with an ordinary telly, dream on. You're not deemed worthy of culture, which will henceforth be banished from terestrial TV. If it wasn't for the fact that I own lots of videos and would like to watch them, I'd throw my telly out the window and burn my TV licence. Oops, sounding off again. *slap* Will get back in box now.

Just like you are there, from Ananova: I won't post them here, but you can view two cleavage shots, the first proving that even a celeb can take a bad photo: http://www.ananova.com/images/entertainment/baftastepherndaldry_kidman410x463PA.jpg http://www.ananova.com/images/entertainment/halleberry410x455PA.jpg (According to Reuters, Jennifer Connelly has won for Best Supporting Actress and Gosford Park has won for Best British Film)

Cleavage???That first shot looks like indecent exposure. Halle Berry looks cute. The gal behind her looks like Emily Watson. They wouldn't take her photo if she wasn't showing boobs. Hooray for Jennifer Connelly. After the scathing reviews for ABM, I didn't expect her to win. She was in heavy company too . Gosford Park has won for Best British Film) There went BJD:-((( Up to Renee and Colin...

From Empire on line: The BAFTA Awards 2002 ? The List in Full Best Film: The Lord of the Rings Best Director: Peter Jackson ? The Lord of the Rings Best Actor: Russell Crowe ? A Beautiful Mind Best Actress: Judi Dench ? Iris Best Supporting Actor: Jim Broadbent ? Moulin Rouge Best Supporting Actress: Jennifer Connelly ? A Beautiful Mind Best Special Visual Effects: The Lord of the Rings Best Make Up and Hair: The Lord of the Rings The Anthony Asquith Award for Film Music: Moulin Rouge Best Sound: Moulin Rouge Best Original Screenplay: Amelie Best Adapted Screenplay: Amelie Best British Film: Gosford Park Best Production Design: Amelie Best Cinematography: The Man Who Wasn?t There Best Editing: Mulholland Drive Best Foreign Language Film: Amores Perros Best Costume Design: Gosford Park Best Short Film: About A Girl Best Animated Short: Dog BAFTA Academy Fellowship: Warren Beatty and Merchant Ivory Outstanding Contribution to British Cinema: Vic Armstrong Special Award: Eon Orange Film of the Year: The Lord of the Rings

Sorry for the ???. Bad karma.

Bafta winner Broadbent is grateful for three movie roles Jim Broadbent says all three of his latest films helped him win his Bafta. He won the best supporting actor award for Moulin Rouge. Broadbent was also up for best actor for Iris and had a role in the acclaimed Bridget Jones's Diary. "It's extraordinary. It's a great surprise," said Broadbent, who beat Hugh Bonneville, Robbie Coltrane, Colin Firth and Eddie Murphy to the best supporting actor honour. "This whole awards season has been one long surprise. I'm just going with the flow. It's all a new experience and a learning curve. I think the reason I got this was partly because of Iris. "Iris, Moulin Rouge are Bridget Jones's Diary are all so different. I have had three good films over one year and that combination helped draw a bit more attention to me." Broadbent added: "I don't think this is really justified - as Don McAlpine said during the shoot 'As long as you keep pulling those wonderful faces, Jim. I'll be a happy man.'" And he gave special praise to director Baz Luhrmann. "Above all because he's a complete visionary genius without whom I'd have had a very dull two years and the whole world would have been a dull place without his Moulin Rouge," he said.

Thanks for the latest! Now on to the p a r t y!

Well, at least Robbie Coltrane didn't win...major shut-out for HP.

RC Best Actor for ABM; "Crowe beat Jim Broadbent, Ian McKellen, Kevin Spacey and Tom Wilkinson to the award. After receiving the honour, he described Connelly as "graceful, mischievous and mesmerising". New Zealand-born Crowe said: "I feel slightly on a roll. It's particularly gratifying the way the cricket's been going lately. "I love my job. I don't think I do it very well but it's OK if you keep rewarding me," said Crowe. ~~~~~~~~~~~ He deserved it.

Lord Of The Rings is audience favourite "Lord Of The Rings won more than twice as many votes as its nearest rival to take the Orange Audience Award. It received nearly 34,000 votes. Bridge Jones's Diary polled 15,602 to come second, with Harry Potter coming third with just over 13,000." ~~~~~~~~~ Whoa....Bridget took the Silver.!!

Well lots of clips to enjoy anyway. Renee came on with her head down a bit , naturally very nervous!

I voted for BJD - has just dawned on me having seen almost very film mentioned (where they've been released) just how much time I've spent in a cinema in the last year - no wonder I don't have a life ;)) BTW how do films get nommed for this? Shipping News isn't on general release yet (saw the trailer this aft) but it was up there. I thought from the number of clips of ODB that he must be going up to present, they showed him almost as much as Keitel and Hoffman.

Sugars the pill Rachael ;-))))

They should have matched up Renee with Colin for an award presentation. I can't believe it did not occur to anyone, especially since, as Evelyn says, BJD got the silver. He would not refuse to do that would he?

That would have been great Moon. It would have given her more confidence and she would have kept her head up then!

Here's a pic of Renee, attempting to sidestep the foaming Red Carpet:

She looks v. pretty. Love the sleeve on that dress. But when she got out of the car did she exclaim, "Where are all the tarps and slickers?" ;-)

ROTF, Lora--good one! Thanks for the pic, Karen--seems that carpet took on a life of its own.;-) I haven't seen any other pics of RZ anywhere--just Nicole and her boobs, dressed for success.;-) A belated congrats to oour Canadian friends for the superb gold medal win in hockey! Well done, and well deserved. Now I can go back to rooting for LeClair, Roenick and Gagne on the same team.:-) Salt Lake City did a tremendous job, IMO. And what a party to end it all last night! (Loved the tribute to Torrino, site of the 2006!)

It was a nice closing ceremony. My DH and I were laughing at tribute to Torino. To sing "Volare" and "O Sole Mio"!!! Nothing to do with Torino. The flag throwers at least are from Asti which is also in the Piedmont region. Salt Lake City brought in their hometown talents. The T Choir is awesome and their orchestra played so well. Did you notice that idiotic looking Italian orchestra director who took over for the Torino part? Those people usually do TV variety shows. The point was not to Illustrate Italy but to highlight Torino, badly done! They camera work at these games was outstanding too. Let's see what the RAI TV will pull off. They don't do a good with the soccer games. :-( Karen, thank you for posting the pictures. You know how curious we are here. :-)

Nearly all the others were just headshots, but here's another: Peoplenews has lots of pics of those at the party. Plenty of Colin's professional associates (from Sue Birtwistle to Annette Bening to Harvey Weinstein to Saffron Burrows), although no letter signatories that I could see. ;-) Loved the tribute to Torrino Really, the fashion show? v. bizarre. Thought it was a great closing ceremony (high praise from someone who hates spectacle) but Lionel Ritchie's LA games closer is my all-time fav, bring-the-house-down number. ;-D

The flag throwers at least are from Asti which is also in the Piedmont region. I thought that was very cool! And I liked the fashion show, too.:-) And how in the world did they project all those images onto the ice? Everything from the Mona Lisa to the Sistine Chapel! LOL! The technology was very cool, and yes, maybe it wasn't Torino, but few viewers would know that. I liked that they took the trouble to incorporate the Italian imagery into the show. Lionel Ritchie's LA games closer is my all-time fav, bring-the-house-down number. ;-D Unforgettable! "All night long . . .all night, all night . . .all night long . . ."

I second the *Congratulations* to our neighbors to the North. Canada has an outstanding group of athletes. Talented and nice. The ice-skating couple were on the Today show this morning. Torino finale terrific; how about that ole Willie Nelson...."an American icon"! And did you join in singing "Happy Trails to You"?;-))

Last night was something I will never forget. The unity and the pure joy on the faces of the thousands of people I partied with last night. As a Canadian we have an extra chromosome (sp?) for hockey in our genes. The gold means so much to us and I am so proud of our boys.

I second the congrats on the Hockey gold. Well deserved. (Evelyn), And did you join in singing "Happy Trails to You"?;-)) That was brilliant! It could/should have ended there.

Renee looks like she was having a very rough night, poor thing.

Congrats on Hockey Gold to both the men and women of Canada!! Is it just me or was the outfit worn by Christina Aguillera (sp?) totally inappropriate for the occassion? Black leathery type thing with fake garters of some sort?? Not very Olympic...maybe I am just old fashioned at the ripe old age of 25 ;)

Karen, thanks for the pics of Renee. The dress and sleeves look better from the front. Would never have thought that the back part of the sleeves went across her back like that! She looks pretty all the same. I felt sad she had to come to the festivities alone in such an uncomfortable way. But had to laugh when it reminded me of tarts and vicars party (Mari, glad you laughed too :-)). Shows how well she embodied that character. But wish she could have had a Mr. Darcy to help her over those soapy puddles. :-)

belated congrats to the Canadians, great stuff!! (Thought I'd posted that message once, but obviously I pressed the wrong button again ;) Thanks for the great pics - I thought Renee's dress was nice, and she was very good in her presentation - although it does sound odd to hear a Texan voice coming out of Bridget! Kevin Spacey had a dig about the goo on the carpet

And how was Bjork?

Great coverage of Baftas here, thank you very much! I don't know why I bother searching the net when this is Awards Central. I thought it was odd that most of the news sites are showing the same photos. Very little variety. (Moon)And how was Bjork? Maybe Livia can borrow the swan dress next time and get more press coverage :-D Or put her dress on backwards, a la NK! Thanks for the congrats to the Canadian athletes! I get very little to brag about 'waaayyy' up here but the curling team and Sale&Pelletier both live minutes away from me and I couldn't be happier for them. Loved the Olympics finale! SLC can be very proud. And as an old Osmond fan, it was nice to see Donny&Marie. Pretty hard to avoid them in Utah :-)

Jude Law offered Sherlock Holmes role Jude Law is set to play Sherlock Holmes in a new film, according to reports. He has been offered the detective role in Sherlock Holmes And The Vengeance Of Dracula. It has been described as the darkest Sherlock Holmes movie ever made. The actor had a small role in the TV series The Casebook Of Sherlock Holmes in 1990, reports the London Evening Standard. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Wasn't SH discussed at one time going to Colin? [Five years ago]. He'd be great in this role. Better than JL, who is too short.

Maybe Colin can play Dracula! I love vampires. That would be so hot!

Oh dear, live show only did marginally better than late night broadcast of day old event. :-( From THR: Star-studded BAFAs attract low viewership LONDON -- Hollywood may have turned out in force for Sunday's Orange British Academy Film Awards, but the ceremony managed to draw only 4.8 million viewers in primetime on BBC1, the pubcaster's main channel. Representing a 21.6% audience share between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., the awards broadcast, presented by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, was well beaten by commercial web ITV's peak offerings of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," "Heartbeat" and "The Jury." "Millionaire" and drama series "Heartbeat" attracted 10.5 million viewers between 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., taking a 42% and 41.3% share, respectively, while drama "The Jury" pulled in 6.8 million and a 31% share between 9:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. The BAFAs' performance also compared poorly with the previous Sunday's programming. Live F.A. Cup soccer coverage reached 7 million viewers between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m., and drama "Outside the Rules" attracted 4.6 million between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. For BBC1, the figures were a marked improvement on 2001, when a highlights package, screened at 10:40 p.m. the day after the event was shown live on satellite channel Sky One, attracted 3.1 million viewers.

(Lora) But wish she could have had a Mr. Darcy to help her over those soapy puddles. :-) The lovely lady who did have him was much more calm and elegant, wasn't she? Thanks so much to everyone for the BAFTA coverage. Without you I would be waiting for news that would never come.

For BBC1, the figures were a marked improvement on 2001, when a highlights package, screened at 10:40 p.m. the day after the event was shown live on satellite channel Sky One, attracted 3.1 million viewers. Well, they picked up another mil by making it live; that should make it encouraging. Still, it's a disappointing audience.

I don't think a 21% share for an awards show is that bad, when it's up against Sunday night warm goo (Heartbeat) and extremely popular quiz (Millionaire) on ITV - how much more did they expect?

Mystery solved about Empire and the so-called live broadcast of the Baftas. There was a one-hour delay, which did allow them to edit the program. And BTW, while RC's actions were fairly extreme, I don't blame him. You don't do that to the winner of a major category. Have we forgotten last year, when Julia Roberts told the conductor to forget about cueing the music and that she intended to be up there for awhile? As we'd say, that was a bush league move of the BBC director and you can be sure Russell, and perhaps others, will stay away from future awards shows without assurances that it won't happen again. http://media.guardian.co.uk/broadcast/story/0,7493,658381,00.html

" Mystery solved about Empire and the so-called live broadcast of the Baftas. There was a one-hour delay, which did allow them to edit the program. " LOL. So it was more like "live an hour ago".Why edit it?...There were no commercials.Maybe they didn't like the fact that it was an Irish poem;-)

The Maximum Russell Crowe website has the transcript of Russell Crowe's entire, unedited acceptance speech. This is the speech: "Western cultures are often criticised for their focus on performing arts. However, singing, dance, theatre, film and all forms of creative expression serve to ignite the intellect, propel emotional development and availability, and reward us all with stories of humanity and the triumph of the human spirit. I am grateful there is a Sydney, I am ecstatic there is a Sydney Opera House. I love my job. I don't think I do it that well. But keep on disagreeing with me if you like. "Richard Harris, one of the finest of this profession, recently brought to my attention the verse of Patrick Kavanagh: 'To be a poet and not know the trade, To be a lover and repel all women, Twin ironies by which great saints are made, The agonising pincher jaws of heaven.'"

Western cultures are often criticised for their focus on performing arts Since when and by whom? Cheryl, what part did they cut? I agree it was a poor editing decision--the speech is not that long, and he *did* win the Best Actor award. But . . . the abusive tirade reported cannot be defended. It seems to me he's been on good behavior for some months now-- he *really* wants that second Oscar. But I had a feeling it wouldn't last. He's lucky the US entertainment shows didn't run the story tonight--all focused on tomorrow's Grammys.

Hi all New Zealand appears to have done well at the BAFTAS in which Peter Jackson, and his Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring picked up 5 awards. Lord of the Rings is still playing to full houses in the country where it was made as well as abroad, and Box Office takings to date have exceeded $1 billion. Rob

If anyone's interested, there are a few shots and the poster from About A Boy up here: http://www.uip-netherlands.nl/aboutaboy.htm (looks to be designed by same person as BJD)

Here's one to cross off our list of potentials: Fiennes to Co-Star in 'Chambermaid' Thu Feb 28, 3:27 AM ET By Charles Lyons NEW YORK (Variety) - Ralph Fiennes is in line to co-star with Jennifer Lopez in Revolution Studios' "The Chambermaid," a romantic comedy to be directed by Wayne Wang. The story, based on a John Hughes script, centers on a chambermaid working at a five-star New York City hotel who becomes romantically involved with a well-known eligible politician staying at the hotel. Hughes will produce along with Revolution's Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas and Julia Roberts' Shoelace Prods. Production begins in New York in April.

Omigod! He's doing a rom-com. (Am checking again for those sledders again!) BTW, they've moved it too. Was supposed to be set here (John Hughes' base of ops).

And, more importantly, the male lead is now an American, when the original called for a Brit. From THR: "She meets and falls in love with a handsome, debonair heir to an American political dynasty (Fiennes) who is staying there. The man mistakes her for a society woman, and she soon finds herself gaining insight into the life of a man she might otherwise have judged from a distance. When her real identity is revealed, however, the truth sets in about the disparity of their lives."

Pffffftttttt! JLo and Rafe? Whatta match. Anyone else having a hard time picturing Jennifer as a chambermaid? ;-)

Nope. I think she does an excellent job of portraying "normal, everyday-type people" when called for.

Omigod! He's doing a rom-com I think Ralph is trying to broaden his image (and therefore the roles he's offered.) Remember his comment at the Golden Globes: "My agent told me to smile or he'd kick my ass." I think she does an excellent job of portraying "normal, everyday-type people" when called for. Agreed. I liked her in Angel Eyes with Jim Caviezel. Speaking of whom . . .if anyone hasn't seen the new Count of Monte Cristo yet, RUN to it. Caviezel is not only gorgeous, but a terrific actor as well. This one is great swashbuckling fun. Grab a big bucket of popcorn and go!:-)

(Mari) Jim Caviezel Liked him in that convoluted fireman film he did with Dennis Quaid. (Karen) I think she does an excellent job The last thing I liked her in was the first thing she did. Thought she showed the acting range of a block of wood in The Wedding Planner. :-/

JLo seems right for the part, but Fiennes as an American politician? Doesn't work for me. Guess he'll have to use a posh my-family-arrived-on-the-Mayflower accent (as in Quiz Show). The movie sounds like 'The American President' meets 'Pretty Woman' ;-)

Hmmm, didn't bother with the Wedding Planner with Matthew *gag me* McCan'tSpellIt. Am basing my assessmment on Angel Eyes and that one with George Clooney (Out of Sight??). (Mari) Caviezel is not only gorgeous, but a terrific actor as well. (Eileen) Liked him in that convoluted fireman film he did with Dennis Quaid. Frequency! Double your pleasure, double your fun. Quaid (who I've liked ever since Breaking Away) and Caviezel. I thought Caviezel was very impressive as the Count. Really aged well and grew more appealing with that age. Guy Pearce, on the other hand, was awful IMO.

with Matthew *gag me* McCan'tSpellIt. LOL, Karen! I prefer them dark too. ;-) But you knw that. (Mari), if anyone hasn't seen the new Count of Monte Cristo yet, RUN to it. Caviezel is not only gorgeous, but a terrific actor as well. This one is great swashbuckling fun. Yes, it is. I enjoyed it very much. Revenge baby! Jennifer is very lucky to be working with RF. It will give her an air of respectability.

(Caribou)The lovely lady who did have him was much more calm and elegant, wasn't she? I quite agree! Let's hope those pre-show entrances we want to see don't end up on the cutting room floor in the rebroadcast on E! I hope they don't cut them out because of the messy rain and suds. *said with worried look on face*

Fiennes as an American politician? . . . Guess he'll have to use a posh my-family-arrived-on-the-Mayflower accent (as in Quiz Show). LOL, Lora! A very accurate description! Great movie, though, and I found that to be his warmest performance ever. McCan'tSpellIt. Hee hee. Frequency! Double your pleasure, double your fun. Quaid (who I've liked ever since Breaking Away) Same here! BA is such a completely charming movie. Liked Frequency too. I thought Caviezel was very impressive as the Count. Really aged well and grew more appealing with that age. He really did, handling the character arc beautifully and subtley. I could see this one again. I think I'll do just that.:-) Guy Pearce, on the other hand, was awful IMO. Agreed. Terrible, IMO. Let's hope those pre-show entrances we want to see don't end up on the cutting room floor I don't think they were shown on the BBC, were they? (Just trying to spare you heartache, Lora;-) Anyway, apparently, we're getting the "international" version which will include the extra minute of Russell Crowe's speech. I wonder who they'll cut to make room.;-)

(Mari)I don't think they were shown on the BBC, were they? Wot, you mean there's no British version of the Joan and Missy show? ;-) Oh well, thought we might catch a glimpse of some of the arrivals. Thanks for the warning, Mari. (Mari) I wonder who they'll cut to make room.;-) It'll probably be Warren Beatty's speech that will lose some lines. He's not likely to get huffy about it at this point in his life. Plus he's got to be a good role model for his four children, and he tends to rattle on anyway ;-).

(Lora)It'll probably be Warren Beatty's speech that will lose some lines. He's not likely to get huffy about it at this point in his life. Plus he's got to be a good role model for his four children, and he tends to rattle on anyway ;-). Does he ever! I sort of like Warren and respect him, but jeez, he's a guy who, when asked what time it is, will tell you how a clock is made.;-) Well, whatever, we'll have to take what they give us. I'm still thrilled that CF was nommmed, that he attended, and that he looked so gorgeous while attending.;-)

Mari, I'm sorry about taking so long to get back to your question concerning which parts of Crowe's speech were edited out. My excuse is I have a horrible cold. The poem was definitely edited out. It would seem that the speech was longer than what is posted on the Maximum Crowe site and is supposed to be the entire speech. RC claims that the entire speech runs 1 minute and 50 seconds and that about 1 minute was edited out. As far as I can find out, all of RC's speech will be telecast on the E! broadcast. I got the following from a fellow RC fan. She didn't tell me the source of it. All she posted was that it is from the Australian media. It seems that RC has apologized to the British Academy but not to Malcolm Gerrie, the producer of the Baftas. ******************************************************************************* RUSSELL Crowe yesterday defended his haranguing of a British TV producer who cut part of his award acceptance speech from a broadcast that ran over time. But he said he apologised to the British Film and TV Academy if he had caused any embarrassment.The incident caused a tabloid furore in Britain.The New Zealand-born Australian actor, in Sydney for last night's premiere of the movie A Beautiful Mind, agreed that he had jabbed his finger at a BBC TV producer after winning BAFTA's best actor award on Sunday.He said he was annoyed because he had wanted to acknowledge his Australian background and to pay tribute to the actor Richard Harris in the TV broadcast. When he started to complain he was calm, but became heated when the producer showed no empathy and repeatedly patronised him by calling him "fella". "I'm quite apologetic to the British Academy if I've brought any embarrassment towards them, but my argument is not with them or even the BBC . . . (but) with a producer who tells me it was his responsibility to make this decision," the Oscar nominee said. Edited from Crowe's BAFTA speech were scenes of gratitude for the existence of Sydney and the Sydney Opera House; thanks to mathematician John Nash, whom he portrayed in the award-winning role; and a short poem recommended by Harris. Crowe also defended the film against charges it ignored Nash's homosexuality, and said that Nash denied being gay and his biographer, Sylvia Nasar, had only "proposed a question" about his sexuality. He agreed with the film's director, Ron Howard, that it would have been irresponsible to portray Nash as gay.On his chances of winning an Oscar for the second successive year (following Gladiator), Crowe said that "people are trying to create an energy of competition, but I don't think the actors respond to that, it was a great privilege to be nominated".He said that Australia was "the number one choice" for locations when he comes to film his directorial debut, WWII story The Long Green Shore, set in PNG. The film will not go into production until at least 2003, but may use rainforest locations in northern NSW or Queensland.

Confirmation of what appeared inevitable, from Ananova: Gwyneth Paltrow is to appear in a movie version of her new play Proof. US film company Miramax has bought the film rights to the play specifically for the actress. She will make her West End debut at London's Donmar Warehouse for a six-week run in May. Gwyneth plays the daughter of a mathematical genius, trying to come to terms with his death and his legacy. The film version will be directed by John Madden, with whom she worked on the hit movie Shakespeare In Love. Miramax director Harvey Weinstein told the Daily Express: "Gwyneth and I were so thrilled by the play that I bought the rights for her. John Madden will move on to the movie the minute she is free. They have amazing chemistry."

Do you think the movie will be a British version (with John Madden directing)? Is Proof at the Donmar to be a British version? Or will the movie take place in Chicago as in the original play (which works quite well)? Too bad the male math PhD role is more in his late 20's than late 30's ;-( (but I imagined CF in the play in that role anyway when I saw it ;-D).

As far as I know, they don't change plays to coincide with where they are staged. There was just "A Streetcar Named Desire" put on in London, and I would doubt it had been moved from New Orleans. Not knowing the play, is Chicago vital integral to the story or can NYC, for example, be substituted?

Cheryl, thanks for the latest on RC. I'll be interested to hear the speech tomorrow. Hope your cold is better!:-) Re: Proof--it doesn't have to take place in Chicago, although there are a lot of references to University of Chicago, Northwestern, surrounding towns, etc. Those could be substituted, of course, but I don't see why they'd do that. Too bad the male math PhD role is more in his late 20's than late 30's ;-( LOL, I was thinking the same thing when I saw it, Laura! Did you see it in NYC, or in a touring company? I saw it on Broadway with Jennifer Jason Leigh in the lead. She was pretty good, but I'd loved to have seen her predecesoor, Mary Louise Parker, who I believe won the Tony for it. And why do these people all have three names?;-)

Sorry, bad day, meant to type "Lora" not Laura. Gah . . . and I really do know how to spell predesecc . . .predecces . .pre . . .the person who came before her.;-)

(Mari)Did you see it in NYC, or in a touring company? I saw it in Miami in a theater that has always brought a lot of Broadway here (for 40 years or so). Sometimes the big names come (the ones from NY) and sometimes unknowns. This particular company were unknowns except for the director who was David Auburn, the author of the play. It was very well done, and the daughter was played by Anney Giobbe (only 2 names ;-)).

(Karen) is Chicago vital integral to the story or can NYC, for example, be substituted? You would be able to substitute Chicago for another big city like New York or London, but you would need to have an old family house in a neighborhood near a major University with a good math department with another University across town. For some reason when I read that Gwyneth was going to do the play in London and then I read she would work with John Madden in the movie, I was hearing her British accent. You're right though there's no need to change the city. I was also thinking about how Nick Hornby's London has been changed to Chicago and Boston to suit the audience (and actors) ;-).

The England-to-US thing is more common, unfortunately, when a US company buys the rights to an English book than the reverse. My guess is that, since Miramax bought the rights expressly for GP, and John Madden has a directorial agreement for a few more films with Miramax, they wanted to try out the material first onstage with the two of them. Given that Proof is playing in NYC and Madden is in England, they could easily do a short run at the Donmar, which has ties with the principals at Miramax and probably Anita Waxman. That's possibly much more than you'd ever want to know, but there are ties around all these people, a network so to speak. That locale take place in a number of cities. What was the supposed across-town university? Northwestern?

(Karen)What was the supposed across-town university? Northwestern? Yes. It needs to be a significant commute away from family home.(hope I'm not spoiling this for anyone)

Ooof, I hadn't read Mari's message closely where she already mentioned NU. ;-D It is a fairly significant distance from Hyde Park to Evanston.

If I may put in two cents about Proof (I saw the original Production at the Manhattan Theater Club) � I don�t think the setting could be changed to NYC nor London. There is a relevant dialogue about moving to NYC in the Claire � Catherine interaction. The location, in my opinion, is significant to the psychological make up of the characters (Claire�s Brooklyn studio thing). Of course screen adaptations quite often significantly change characters, but it would be a shame. Once I�m here: I�ve seen two awesome productions this past week in NYC (NYC�s stage has been particularly generous this winter): The Crucible w/ Liam Neeson, directed by Richard Eyre at the Virginia Theater. If you like Miller, and you have the opportunity, this production is worth a trip to NYC (mind you, I saw a preview!). If you do come don�t miss Kevin Bacon in An Almost Holy Picture at the American Airlines Theater (Roundabout).

Oscar contenders "Gosford Park" and "A Beautiful Mind"...won the top prizes Saturday during the 54th annual Writers Guild of America Awards ceremony held simultaneously in Beverly Hills and New York. Julian Fellowes earned the original screenplay laurel for USA Films' "Gosford," director Robert Altman's social comedy about a weekend at an English country home. Akiva Goldsman won for adapted screenplay for Universal/DreamWorks' "Mind," based on Sylvia Nassar's book about schizophrenic Nobel Prize-winning mathematician John Nash Jr. While the film winners should benefit in their quest for corresponding Academy Awards because Oscar ballots are in voters' hands, their wins are not necessarily an indicator of Oscar gold -- especially because such Academy-nominated screenplays as Christopher Nolan's original script for "Memento" and Rob Festinger and Todd Field's adapted screenplay for "In the Bedroom" were not eligible for WGA consideration because those films were not guild signatories.

Sigh. I always pictured Colin in this role, opposite Gwynnie. Was half right.:-( From Ananova: Russell Crowe in line to play late poet Russell Crowe is being lined-up to play the late poet Ted Hughes in a play about his life, according to reports. The BBC film is centred around Hughes' real life love affair with Sylvia Plath. It is thought that Gwyneth Paltrow has been approached to play Sylvia. The �10 million movie has the working title of The Beekeeper's Daughter. It will be shot in the autumn by the BBC, reports the Sunday Times.

Each of these news services varies the level of commitment. The first I read of this, they were only "approaching" RC for this role. Check out the Sunday Times, as I recall. Besides, does he even have an opening for it in his busy schedule?

Pray all his windows of opportunity are firmly closed....please;-) Just like my Dylan Thomas rant Boss ;-)))

Looks like London is going to be overrun by Cows on Parade this summer! Cow sculptures take over London Hundreds of sculptures of cows will be placed throughout London as part of an art event. CowParade London will be launched in June and run until September. Brighton, Jersey and Carlisle have also asked to take 20 cows each. More than 800 designs have been submitted for what will be the biggest exhibition of commissioned art ever held in the UK. Cow sculptures will be placed in streets, parks, outside major buildings and other high profile attractions in London. One painted cow, by Keith Wallace, has already been unveiled outside the National Gallery. CowParade is the world's largest public art event. It began in Chicago and New York in 1999 and has since expanded to Australia and Uruguay as well as London and other US cities. "These bovine beauties are helping make a difference in our community. For each cow sponsored, donations will be made to Childline and Rural Relief," said a spokesman for the event. "At the conclusion of the event, the cows will be sold at live and internet auctions, with proceeds benefiting Childline." Anyone interested in becoming an event sponsor or artist can contact clare@cornucopia-group.com.

Since you started the cow trend, Karen, I will just have to share this. How important are cows in the Int'l political scene? A CHRISTIAN DEMOCRAT: You have two cows. You keep one and give one to your neighbor. Then you covet it. A SOCIALIST: You have two cows. The government takes one and gives it to your neighbor. You form a cooperative to tell him how to manage his. A DEMOCRAT: You have two cows. Your neighbor has none. You feel guilty for being successful. You vote people into office who tax your cows, forcing you to sell one to raise money to pay the tax. The people you voted for then take the tax money and buy a cow and give it to your neighbor. You feel righteous. Barbara Streisand sings for you. A REPUBLICAN: You have two cows. Your neighbor has none. So? A COMMUNIST: You have two cows. The government seizes both and provides you with milk. You wait in line for hours to get it. It is expensive and sour. A FASCIST: You have two cows. The government seizes both and sells you the milk. You join the underground and start a campaign of sabotage, which ultimately blows up the cows. CAPITALISM, AMERICAN STYLE: You have two cows. You sell one, buy a bull, and build a herd of cows. DEMOCRACY, AMERICAN STYLE: You have two cows. The government taxes you to the point you have to sell both to support a man in a foreign country who has only one cow, which was a gift from your government. AN AMERICAN CORPORATION: You have two cows. You sell one, lease it back to yourself and do an IPO on the 2nd one. You force the 2 cows to produce the milk of four cows. You are surprised when one cow drops dead. You spin an announcement to the analysts that you have reduced your expenses. Your stock goes up. A FRENCH CORPORATION: You have two cows. You go on strike because you want three cows. You go to lunch. Life is good. A JAPANESE CORPORATION: You have two cows. You redesign them so they are one-tenth the size of an ordinary cow and produce twenty times the milk. They learn to travel on unbelievably crowded trains. Most are at the top of their class at cow school. A GERMAN CORPORATION: You have two cows. You reengineer them so they are all blond, drink lots of beer, give excellent quality milk, and run a hundred miles an hour. Unfortunately they also demand 13 weeks of vacation per year. AN ITALIAN CORPORATION: You have two cows but you don't know where they are. While ambling around, you see a beautiful woman. You break for lunch. Life is good. A RUSSIAN CORPORATION: You have two cows. You count them and learn you have five cows. You have some more vodka. You count them again and learn you have 42 cows. You count them again and learn you have 12 cows. You stop counting cows and open another bottle of vodka. You produce your 10th, 5-year plan in the last 3 months. The Mafia shows up and takes over however many cows you really have. A SWISS CORPORATION: You have 5000 cows, none of which belong to you. You charge for storing them for others. If they give milk, you tell no one. A TALIBAN CORPORATION: You have all the cows in Afghanistan, which is two. You don't milk them because you cannot touch any creature's private parts. At night when no one is looking, you milk both of them. Then you kill them and claim a US bomb blew them up while they were in the hospital. A POLISH CORPORATION: You have two bulls. Several people are killed while attempting to milk them. A FLORIDA CORPORATION: You have a black cow and a brown cow. Everyone votes for the best looking one. Some of the people who like the brown one best vote for the black one. Some people vote for both. Some people vote for neither. Some people can't figure out how to vote at all. Finally, a bunch of guys from out-of-state tell you which is the best looking one. ENRON VENTURE CAPITALISM: You have two cows. You sell three of them to your publicly listed company, using letters of credit opened by your brother-in-law at the bank, then execute a debt/equity swap with an associated general offer so that you get all four cows back, with a tax exemption for five cows. The milk rights of the six cows are transferred via an intermediary to a Cayman Island company secretly owned by the majority shareholder who sells the rights to all seven cows back to your listed company. The annual report says the company owns eight cows, with an option on one more. ROTF! Everytime I read this.

The one thing that i've always wondered, is -why cows? i mean not that i have anything against them, but it just seems an odd choice to me. were cows picked randomly from the animal kingdom? or is there a deeper meaning that i'm missing??

I assume it is because cows provide a large canvas to paint on. They are also peaceful and vegetarian. ;-)

(SBRobinson)The one thing that i've always wondered, is -why cows? i mean not that i have anything against them, but it just seems an odd choice to me. were cows picked randomly from the animal kingdom? or is there a deeper meaning that i'm missing?? Must be to boost the market after last year's hoof and mouth disease. Not to be left out of the international art scene, we in New Mexico have the same thing going on but with painted horses. They are displayed at the Albuquerque Airport among other places. Wonder who had the idea first.

I suppose it is written by an American capitalist ;)

Actually, the cows originated in Zurich, but it appears the Chicago event was so large and spectacular that it garnered the most news. But, Tineke, it has now been entrusted to, yes, an American capitalist corp, CowParade WorldWide, Inc., headquartered in Hartford, CT. ;-D Loved the definitions, Moon. *moo*

Milton Keynes had them decades ago.

LOL Moon, great reading. Thinking of the Italian one I could imagine it being "You see a beautiful woman with a baby" in CF's case, thinking of him in BC ;-)

Thanks for the udderly terrific laughs, Mooooooooon. ;-) Very funny stuff.

Thanks for restoring me, Karen! I have missed drool...

MARCIA!!!! Hey Chica! How ya been??? *big hug*

They are also peaceful and vegetarian. ;-) ] If they were vegetarian, then why were they fed sheep with mad cow disease???? :)

Marcia - finally you made it back. Moon - that's a classic. Thanks.

If they were vegetarian, then why were they fed sheep with mad cow disease???? :) You answered your own question, Laura. They were fed.

I noticed that the Bradford Film Festival has opened. Here's an opportunity for those living in the north to see some better films. There's even a rare screening of Richard Burton's Hamlet tomorrow for certain people who have been comparing Danes recently. http://www.bradfordfilmfestival.org.uk/filmdiary.asp

Continuing with this Shakespeare theme... if the film Scotland PA is playing in your area and you want a good laugh, go see it. The film is based on Macbeth, using the names and basic plot, but is set in the early 70s and in the vernacular. There are only a few lines from the actual play and they're spoken in the background. Totally a hoot, especially with the McDonald's allusions. Very updating.

so the CD and LDC version of R&J wasn't any good???? *gag, HATE R&J anyway*

You're right, Moon, they were fed, but if they were vegetarians, wouldn't they complain?????? :)

If anyone is in London...beg, borrow or steal a ticket to see Jude Law in Marlowe's Dr. Faustus.(Sold out)And you won't have to pay $80 to see it either, like the B'way dramas....19� front row and center for a mesmerizing performance. Stage design by the same guy who did Lion King. And oh...for the Donmar gang...the Luna Nuova is closed. (Try not to cry, Boss;-))

(Try not to cry, Boss;-)) OK, I'll mourn privately. ;-D Yeah!!! He's got it. Excellent news: Ron Howard has been honoured by the Directors Guild of America for A Beautiful Mind. The award is considered to be one of the most accurate indicators of Oscar success. In the 54 years since the guild began distributing its prize, the winner has gone on to win the best director Oscar all but five times. Howard said: "I have my fingers crossed for the Oscars, but I'm just enjoying this award right now." He was the only American nominated for the award. The other nominees were Peter Jackson, Baz Luhrmann, Christopher Nolan and Ridley Scott. [which doesn't mirror the Oscar slate that has Altman instead of Nolan] Russell Crowe, who stars in A Beautiful Mind, also attended the awards, as did Nicole Kidman. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Big doings tonight with the SAG awards. It will be broadcast on TNT and there's a Red Carpet show with everyone's favorites, Joan and Missy, on E!

YUCK! How could Ron Howard possibly beat out the other four nominees? I don't mind if ABM sweeps the acting awards, but best directing? Against LOTR, MR AND Memento? Even BHD? That's purely a safe choice for the DGA. Opie is such a nice guy, with a good body of work and they screwed him for Apollo 13. The reason why I hate Oscar as much as I love it, it has nothing to do with the acting body of work we speak of. Oh well, at least they have a great imagination - I mean John Nash's life is nothing like the film. I will retch if he wins on Oscar night, including best pic. I think there may be a backlash coming for ABM though - it's uniformally hated on GoldDerby.

One important thing to keep in mind about the Oscars is that the criteria for Best Picture has absolutely nothing to do with "Critics Best"-type lists. There is such a thing as a film that has Best Picture written all over it, and ABM does. It is precisely the type of film that would win and I think deservedly so. Howard's direction was outstanding and highly creative. I don't care one jot whether the bio was accurate or not. I don't rely on films for factual situations or, as Roeper/Ebert said last night, read the book for that. ABM isn't the first film to play fast and loose with a person's life and won't be the last. Actually, this so-called "backlash" is likely the result of one studio's dirty tricks campaign. Just FYI, sci-fi and fantasy films, no matter how epic in scope, are not Oscar fare. Loved how Roeper said last night that he hoped LOTR would get shut out completely. It topped his list of the one he wanted to see at the Oscars. Ebert's was for Altman to win. (I would imagine GoldDerby is populated by the same type of film geeks that frequent such places as AICN and who are major sci-fi and comic book types.)

Wot a load of horse manure! Ben Kingsley is the 900 lb gorilla in the Supporting Actor category. From the Sunday Times: Hollywood patriots target Oscar Brits by John Harlow SOME of Britain�s top actresses are set to lose out at the Oscar ceremony this year because America has been gripped by patriotic fervour and wants to reward its own stars. Oscar-nominated performers such as Helen Mirren, Kate Winslet, Maggie Smith and Judi Dench could be passed over because giving them gold-plated statuettes this year might be regarded as unpatriotic by American film fans scarred by last year�s terrorist attacks. British men, by contrast, have been largely ignored by the Hollywood spin doctors behind the campaign. Sir Ian McKellen, who has been nominated for best supporting actor for his role as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, is believed to be unassailable. The 5,000 voters in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, who return their postal ballots next week for the most widely viewed awards ceremony in the world, are being wooed by teams of highly paid academics, studio bosses and marketeers. One studio economist estimated that �50m is spent on advertising, screenings and parties in the 12 weeks before the Oscars. Over the past few days promoters have broken cover with a technique known as �ring o� roses� � phoning up old friends. A retired British director resident in Los Angeles said last week that he would complain after he was phoned at 11pm by a former studio executive who spent 20 minutes being rude about Gosford Park, a story of 1930s British life nominated for best film. �He had forgotten I was a Londoner as he dismissed Maggie Smith and Helen Mirren as �Little Englanders� and worse,� said the director, who asked not to be named. Another victim of whisperers is the Durham-born director Ridley Scott, whose film Black Hawk Down was welcomed by the White House as an endorsement for the Afghan war. Two months later, however, Oscar voters are worried by its overt warning about Americans underestimating Arab enemies. �Now we have American soldiers falling out of helicopters to be slaughtered on the ground, both in the film and on television news, it has become a bit too tough for us to deal with. It does not help that Black Hawk Down was made by a foreigner,� said one. Studio insiders say this Oscar race is the most jingoistic since 1960 when John Wayne, promoting his self-financed western The Alamo, declared that a vote for rivals such as Sons and Lovers, based on the DH Lawrence novel, and The Apartment, a sex comedy by Austrian-born director Billy Wilder, was a vote for �debauched foreign liberalism�. The Apartment swept the board. Today the Hollywood spin doctors are more subtle and effective. They include renowned promoters such as Tony Angellotti, who helped turn the little New York film-distribution firm of Miramax into a regular Oscar winner. His most famous coup was swinging victory for Shakespeare in Love over Steven Spielberg�s Saving Private Ryan in 1999 by charming voters in neglected enclaves such as a retired actors� home. Oscar nominees receive �rule books�, vetted by psychologists who recommend key phrases to be repeated during interviews for maximum effect. This year�s magic word, admitted one insider, is �American�. Tom Wilkinson has been nominated for his role as a Maine doctor in the revenge thriller In the Bedroom, which is being promoted to voters as �a film for an angry America�. A Beautiful Mind has already fallen victim to a whispering campaign, with the media alerted to unpalatable facts left out of the film version of the life of the schizophrenic mathematician John Nash. These include reports that the real Nash was anti-semitic. Homosexual voters have been stirred up by the exorcising of Nash�s bisexuality from the movie. Overt polling of Oscar voters is banned by the academy, which shrouds voting lists in secrecy. However, the results of a sophisticated focus group analysis run by a leading studio that claims an 80% accuracy rate in predicting winners suggests The Lord of the Rings, based on the saga by JRR Tolkien, is set to win best picture. This may, however, be an exception. Dade Hayes, veteran columnist with the Hollywood trade paper, Variety, said: �The mood is against the British. The films are too small and the events in the world too big. British actors are deeply respected, but this is not their year.�

Karen - imaginative? I can't see it. Tell me we are seeing the same film?! My point about them leaving out a lot of Nashs' real life is that it is completely contrived and uninspiring. A lot of films are, that's the biz and that's what people generally pay for at the theatres, but when it is written with the intent to be an emotional, 'let's tug at the strings of Oscar voters' film I see nothing creative about that. To quote someone from Gold Derby who said it best 'White bread. Simple. Unassuming. Safe. Uninteresting. Causes blockage. Ron Howard's ABM direction.' I am sure that the DGA don't think this is his best work - we know it really has nothing to do with his current project but his body of work. He's also the only American nominated. Hmmm. GoldDerby is definitely not filled with sci-fi fans. It's run by Tom O'Neil who is the film expert on E! and a bunch of other critics from Entertainment Weekly, Newsweek and so far. It's actually a popularity war between LOTR and MR, with ITB thrown in. As much as I love LOTR, I would actually be happy if any of the other four films took home Oscar as they are deserving. Maybe ABM deserves a nomination, but it is most certainly not the best picture of the year.

Safe? I beg to differ. I've heard the comment about the story pitch and how the studios were salivating to make a film about a shizophrenic mathematician. ;-D That fact that it succeeded so well tells me that Howard did a brilliant job. He made the subject matter not only interesting but understandable (that games theory visualization was incredible), and unless you had read the book, you had no clue that the Paul Bettany and Ed Harris characters were in his imagination. He elicited superb performances from all his actors and put together a film that touched you at an emotional level. My bias is firmly against F/X films in case you haven't noticed. To me, they are not the mark of a great film. I look to great writing and acting as the key components and F/X films rarely have those in spades. I do feel MR was a fantastic film and a leading contender, although Luhrmann got the snub in his category. In the Bedroom does rate highly with me because of the aforementioned categories. And when I said that GoldDerby being populated by the younger geek crowd, that would apply to the people who post, not the person who runs it. BTW, I finally watched HP last night (someone gave me a tape) and was falling asleep by the end...and it was fairly early. ;-D [P.S. This is not arguing, merely a discussion.]

I take no offense, Boss! I enjoy a lively film discussion. You should check out GoldDerby - you would be surprised. As many intelligent and articulate people there as there are here! I would love for Moulin Rouge to take it home because I adore Baz (I still can't believe they left him out), probably as equally as LOTR. You could say the same thing about Peter Jackson with his direction - have your read any of the Trilogy? It was quite a feat for him to turn such an complex book into a throughly enjoyable and intelligent film. Have you seen it yet? Cause you are also talking to someone who is not the greatest F/X film fan either. I waited two months to see it cause I was so prepared not to like it. It's magical. And you say the acting isn't great - it's uniformally excellent. Ian McKellan is superb and Elijah Wood brings so much heart to the film. I think it breaks the trend of films loaded with technical effects and not much else. I can only hope the remaining two films will be as good.

I haven't seen LOTR yet and was never interested in the books from way back. Regardless, I don't think Tolkien is Hollywood Oscar fare. Fantasy however good isn't likely to win. See 1939, possibly one of the greatest years in film-making for Hollywood. I try to separate what I like and what I think the Academy voters will go for. I'm not 100% accurate (Hillary Swank over establishment actress Annette Bening), but I am staunch in allowing the Academy to judge by its own criteria of "Best" vs my own or any other critic. A Best Picture is the sum of its parts. The fact that ABM is gathering in the best director, writing and possibly acting (we shall see tonight) awards is going to factor heavily in the way the Oscars go IMO. (I disregard the GGs as an indicator of anything BTW.) Plus I want ABM's score to win. It was so incredibly distinctive and perfectly showed the linkage between music and math. A great example is The English Patient. I didn't particularly like it, but walked out of the theater knowing I had seen the Best Picture of the year. On another note, on one of the infotainment shows, someone commented about the age factor and how very few women over X age had won Oscars within the last X number of years (had no affect on men however apparently). This bodes very badly for Sissy, which would make Halle the front runner (or Nicole).

It was quite a feat for him to turn such an complex book into a throughly enjoyable and intelligent film. I agree with you Rebecca about LOTR. And I would love for it to win. Baz (I still can't believe they left him out), Neither can I. I hope it wins Best Cinematography. The Man Who Wasn't There might be a strong contender here, but if these people had seen early German Expressionist cinema, they would know what can really be done with b&w film. (Karen), That fact that it succeeded so well tells me that Howard did a brilliant job. He made the subject matter not only interesting but understandable (that games theory visualization was incredible), That technical effect was well done, but, ABM is not RH's best film. Memento which also dealt with mental illness (in a sense), was a better film. Hollywood patriots target Oscar Brits Thank you for the interesting article, Karen. The Brit Press always complain. Maybe they can turn this into their new "Cause Celebre" and leave the Fortunato thing alone. ;-) Directors Guild of America [which doesn't mirror the Oscar slate that has Altman instead of Nolan] They were right in picking Nolan over Altman. Must we hear one more time how he doesn't direct? (calling John Nash...) ;-)

I want ABM's score to win. It was so incredibly distinctive and perfectly showed the linkage between music and math I agree! This bodes very badly for Sissy, which would make Halle the front runner (or Nicole). So you don't think Renee has a chance? I do.

Oscar-nominated performers such as Helen Mirren, Kate Winslet, Maggie Smith and Judi Dench could be passed over because giving them gold-plated statuettes this year might be regarded as unpatriotic by American film fans Agreed, Karen, it is horse manure. I don't see why some writers persist in presenting everything in a "us vs. them" way. I was just looking at the Oscar noms to refresh my memeory, and 50%--yes, half--of the acting noms went to non-Americans. And lots of people were surprised that actors such as Billy Bob Thornton and Steve Buscemi got overlooked. Also, American film fans don't vote for the Oscars, and most could not care less about the nationality of who won, so this guy's argument is just plain stupid. Very glad for Opie! And yes, I saw both LOTR and MR. I liked ABM very much, and have been disappointed at the potshots it's now taking by certain members of the media--who, let's not kid ourselves, *always* have their own agenda-- who are serving as mouthpieces for the behind-the-scenes machinations of a rival studio. Too bad Todd Field has been overlooked for In The Bedroom. No pyrothechnics in that film, just brilliant writing, acting, and unconventional directorial choices in all the key scenes.

I meant to add: with 2 more Rings movies due out, I suspect the DGA feels it will have ample other opportunities to honor Peter Jackson. As for Baz--MR is an amazingly directed film (some say over-directed, to the point of chaos). And I think that's the bottom line--a lot of people didn't like the movie.

The "Vote America" campaign certainly showed in the SAG awards. ;-D Let's see, Best Supporting Actress Helen Mirren hails from which of our 50 states? And what about Sir Ian McKellan? Or Russell Crowe, or for that matter Best Cast for Gosford Park. Hmmm, the only American to win, Halle Berry, was in the minority. For the time being, I've rationalized McKellan's win over Kingsley's as payback for not having won on Gods & Monsters. ;-D BTW, caught Inside the Actors Studio before the SAGs and they had an hour with Ben Kingsley. It was wonderful. Do try to catch it when it is replayed.

If LOTR wins, it will be because of this campaign of dirty tricks: 'Mind'-bending reports out of line, Uni claims By Gregg Kilday (THR) LAS VEGAS -- With Academy Awards voting entering its final days -- ballots are due March 19 -- a new attack launched this week against Universal/DreamWorks' "A Beautiful Mind" has led Universal Pictures chairman Stacey Snider to deplore what she considers unethical tactics used by some of the combatants in this year's Oscar contest. "There's been a shocking absence of self-restraint," Snider said in an interview in Las Vegas, where she was attending ShoWest 2002, at which "Mind's" Ron Howard was named director of the year Thursday night. "Lines that should be clear to all of us have recklessly been crossed. Filmmakers who have done honest work that was never engineered to win an award now are having to defend their intentions." The latest salvo in what many view as a no-holds-barred Oscar contest that has descended into mudslinging began Tuesday morning when Internet columnist Matt Drudge led his Web site with a headline declaring, "Nash 'Jew Bashing' Left Out of Film." In the accompanying story, Drudge accused the filmmakers behind "Mind" of eliminating anti-Semitic remarks that the movie's real-life subject, Nobel Prize-winning mathematician John Nash Jr., made in 1967, for fear of offending Academy voters. An earlier Drudge report, published when the nominations were first announced, accused the filmmakers of ignoring Nash's adultery and alleged homosexuality. Drudge wrote, "Producers who also wiped out Nash's homosexual past for the film were cognizant that the chances of winning Oscar gold would be lessened if their film's protagonist was a basher of a religion that is disproportionately represented in the Academy voting pool. Director Ron Howard and Co. apparently opted to create a composite schizophrenic whose illness would not offend the voting public." Said Snider: "I've never met John Nash. But a 73-year-old man who has gone through hell and who agreed to entrust us with his life shouldn't have to go through these attacks. To take statements out of context, which were said at a time when he was a self-admitted schizophrenic, seems shameful. We never set out to sugarcoat his life, but I don't think it's a misrepresentation of that life to have concentrated on the facts that try to get to the essence of his life." Universal, which saw the Oscar prospects of its 1999 biopic "The Hurricane" damaged when that film came under attack for its historical accuracy, took a proactive stance when "Mind" was released in December, explaining up front that the movie was not intended as a literal recounting of Nash's life. But that hasn't prevented broadsides from being launched against the film. The latest volley picked up momentum Thursday when Roger Friedman, a columnist for FoxNews.com, reiterated Drudge's charges and went on to write, "There's something weird about 'A Beautiful Mind.' It's a movie on autopilot for self-destruction. Between the revelations about Nash and Russell Crowe's bad behavior at the British Academy Awards, it's slowly becoming the Gary Condit of movies." "The timing of these latest missives and their orchestration has to be calculated," Snider said. "It can't be inadvertent." Asked if his story had been suggested by a rival Academy campaign, Drudge said, "I'm not going to reveal my sources. I was approached by an Academy voter who knew about (the anti-Semitic remarks). I've been poring through the book and I took another look at it and it jumped out at me. I go where the action is. (Whether the latest charge originated in a rival Oscar campaign camp) is neither here nor there to me. Albeit I didn't name the Academy member, I have now heard from three members who said they switched their votes because of Nash's views regarding Jews." Snider declined to say where she suspects the attacks might have originated, but she did say she has spoken to rival studio executives, encouraging them to stick to the high road and discourage their staffs from launching stealth campaigns. "I have chosen to try to appeal to our competitors on a personal level, to urge them not to tumble down this moral slope," she said. Saying that Howard "feels wounded" by the charges, she added: "So many people among the moviegoing public at large have spoken to him about how meaningful the film was to them that there is a real dissonance between that reaction and what we are encountering now. The attacks are so inflammatory and easily reduced to sound bites. The movie has led to meaningful articles published about schizophrenia, but these are just tabloid headlines. If you are a responsible writer, you don't take statements out of context that someone made during a 35-year battle with schizophrenia." The decidedly nasty nature of this year's subterranean Oscar campaign -- which in some quarters has taken on the tone of a brutal political campaign -- has been a frequent topic of conversation among many of the marketing executives gathered at ShoWest. "There have always been whisper campaigns directed against films, but this year, the whispers seem to have turned into shouts," one of them observed. "There should be a place for showmanship in the Oscar campaigns," Snider added, citing New Line's campaign on behalf of "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" for its approach toward celebrating that film's achievements. "But however this race plays out, the winners should feel that the wins are meaningful. You don't want to win because somebody else was attacked unfairly and so late in the game with salacious and inflammatory accusations."

"There should be a place for showmanship in the Oscar campaigns," Snider added, citing New Line's campaign on behalf of "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" for its approach toward celebrating that film's achievements. If LOTR wins it will be because of its accomplishments, which are not few. ABM has a happy ending and it is thanks to his wife. I guess that does not go down well with the ultra-liberal gay crowd. Why doesn't someone turn the tables and critize them for it? And now the Jews are not supposed to be voting for it either because of of JN? This thing is way out-of-hand, it's only a film telling the story it of the script.

"SOME of Britain�s top actresses are set to lose out at the Oscar ceremony this year because America has been gripped by patriotic fervour and wants to reward its own stars." Bunch of whiners....RC American? Aw...they just want to sell newspapers.

The movie has led to meaningful articles published about schizophrenia, but these are just tabloid headlines. If you are a responsible writer, you don't take statements out of context that someone made during a 35-year battle with schizophrenia." Good for Stacey Snider for speaking out. Who do you think is behind this? Miramax? New Line? It's typical Matt Drudge slash-and-burn "journalism." Here's some perspective from the woman who actually wrote the book; she doesn't seem to mind that they haven't filmed the book verbatim: Oscar Push Getting "Dirty," Says Studio The writer of the book A Beautiful Mind: The Life of Mathematical Genius and Nobel Laureate John Nash has accused Internet gossip Matt Drudge and other columnists of writing "untrue and very injurious things" about Nash. In an interview with today's (Monday) Washington Post, Sylvia Nasar said that anti-Semitic quotes attributed to Nash were made by the mathematician while he was mentally ill, "at a moment in time when he not only felt threatened by Jews and Israel, he thought he was Job and Esau and the emperor of Antarctica, and the messiah ... What he believed at that time were symptoms of his illness and paranoid delusions." The Post, suggesting that the Nash quotes were planted as part of a "down and dirty" campaign to smear Nash and hence the movie during the Oscar voting period, quoted Universal spokeswoman Terry Curtin as saying, "It's out of control. ... It's unfortunate that some people are stooping to that level. It's gotten to be so dirty. The last pure place that you thought you could go is completely tainted: the Academy race."

(Moon) If LOTR wins it will be because of its accomplishments, which are not few. Oh, Moon, you have no idea how powerful that strategy could be. The Genome Project has identified precisely which chromozone houses our guilt gene. ;-D Hopefully, the Washington Post's expose will counter the effects. ~~~~~~~ In other news today... U.K. Actors Reach Contract Deal LONDON (Variety) - The phantom strike by British film actors is over. Actors union Equity voted Monday to approve a landmark film contract that gives Blighty thesps the right to residual payments for studio and indie pictures shot in the U.K. for the first time. "This is one of the biggest achievements in Equity's history," said one union official. "The contribution of U.K.-based performers to the financial success of feature films has been acknowledged." Equity has technically been on strike since its contract lapsed Dec. 1. But the union struck interim deals with individual producers, ensuring no movie was blocked by the labor dispute. Equity and PACT, which represents British producers, have agreed on two contracts -- for studio pics and for indies. For most independent films, actors will receive a flat 2% of net profits. However, there are more complex formulas for films budgeted between $1.4 million and $4.2 million, and those under $1.4 million. For studio movies, actors have won a share of worldwide video/DVD revenues, as well as a slice of TV income everywhere except in the U.S.

(Karen), The Genome Project has identified precisely which chromozone houses our guilt gene. ;-D The Human Genome Project (HGP) is an international research effort to characterize the genomes of human and selected model organisms through complete mapping and sequencing of their DNA, to develop technologies for genomic analysis, to examine the ethical, legal, and social implications of human genetics research, and to train scientists who will be able to utilize the tools and resources developed through the HGP to pursue biological studies that will improve human health.

Here's the full Washington Post story on the dirty campaigning. It's not Miramax behind it apparently; Universal has exonerated them. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A5484-2002Mar10.html

One more, from Roger Ebert: Campaign directed against 'Beautiful' is ugly, unwarranted March 11, 2002 BY ROGER EBERT Chicago Sun-Times Judging by the attacks against it, "A Beautiful Mind" is the most reprehensible film of the year. Amazing it was made, let alone nominated for an Academy Award. The mugging of this film is the most disturbing element of this year's Oscar season. Ron Howard's film stars Russell Crowe as John Forbes Nash Jr., a schizophrenic who won the Nobel Prize for mathematics. We see him struggling with demons and fantasies, aided by a loyal wife (Jennifer Connelly). Like Nash, the audience is sometimes deluded about what's real in the story, and what is a phantasm. The film is well written, directed and acted. But the film's detractors see more, or less. They charge: * Nash has been whitewashed; the film suppresses the facts that he fathered a child out of wedlock, and refused to support it, was bisexual, and faced molestation charges after an incident in a public toilet. **A book about Nash reports him making anti-Semitic comments. Joy Behar on "The View'' said the movie should have included that behavior. Would she have preferred a movie about an anti-Semite who wins the Nobel? * Russell Crowe, angry that the British Academy Awards telecast edited out four lines of poetry in his speech, pushed and shoved the director of the program. **Press Release: "Claiming that the film 'A Beautiful Mind' distorts the life of John Nash, a coalition of 100 mental health advocacy groups issued a public statement today to Universal asking for an apology and retraction." The coalition is angry about a USA Today article reporting that "this brilliant mathematician stopped taking antipsychotic drugs in 1970 and slowly recovered over two decades.'' My thoughts: **The movie is caught in the controversy between those supporting drugs in the treatment of schizophrenia, and those interested in other approaches. The coalition is really disturbed not because the movie changed the facts, but because it didn't change them enough; in the film, Nash speaks of "newer medications" that in real life he was not taking, so they should be calling for an apology from USA Today, not the studio. **A schizophrenic has a serious mental illness, yet Behar and others hold him to the standard of a healthy person. Who knows what he thought he was doing, or saying, during the episodes involving sex and anti-Semitism? In the film, he lives with imaginary characters for years. To say he should have "sought treatment" is to assume he was sane enough to do so, and to ignore his belief that medication would cloud his mathematical work. **Crowe has a hot head, but he also has a point. Awards shows are inflated with endless gassy lists of people the winners want to thank. Crowe read four lines by Patrick Kavanaugh that directly express his humility as an artist. Cutting them made his speech pointless. Are the attacks against "A Beautiful Mind" orchestrated? "I'm not going to reveal my sources," says the Web's Matt Drudge, whose report on the anti-Semitic remarks caused an uproar. His statement tips his hand: He didn't find out about the statements himself, but was told about them. Isn't he missing the real story--that someone came to him with a vested interest in hurting the film? "If you are a responsible writer," says shell-shocked Universal chairman Stacey Snider, "you don't take statements out of context that someone made during a 35-year battle with schizophrenia." True. "A Beautiful Mind" is a parable about triumph in the face of disaster, not a drive-by shooting.

Equity has technically been on strike since its contract lapsed Dec. 1. But the union struck interim deals with individual producers, ensuring no movie was blocked by the labor dispute. LMAO! Some strike! Glad they got what they wanted anyway.

It's not Miramax behind it apparently; Universal has exonerated them. Of course, what fool would think Miramax was behind it? One only has to look at which studio would most benefit: New Line or Fox. I'd put money on Fox.

I'd put money on Fox. ] righto, they're even worse when it comes to the television show. So much that WB is dropping every Fox show....

Yes, but we all remember the computerized voting at the last minute that overturned BJD's commanding lead in that Hollywood Films award that gave it to Moulin Rouge.

what fool would think Miramax was behind it? LOL! Just ask the studios/producers that have been targeted by Miramax in the past. Ask Steven Spielberg.:-( Agree that's it's likely Fox and I also thought about their systematized cheating on the ET "poll." Baz and Nicole were just on Leno's show, campaigning. Where is RZ? She's been the invisible woman in this contest, not that she ever really had a shot at a win anyway.

(Mari) Just ask the studios/producers that have been targeted by Miramax in the past. Ask Steven Spielberg.:-( But that only works if Miramax had a *real* film in contention. Besides, all they've done is lobby very hard and bought the nominations/awards. Have they gotten down in the dirt like this? Actually, the most similar situation was what happened to Denzel Washington for Hurricane.

(Karen), I'd put money on Fox. Well at least you have exonerated New Line. ;-) the most similar situation was what happened to Denzel Washington for Hurricane. This happens all the time. Is Smith's performance in Ali better than Guy Pearce in Memento? I think not.

(Moon) This happens all the time. Is Smith's performance in Ali better than Guy Pearce in Memento? I think not. My point was that there was a smear campaign against the film Hurricane because it did not give an accurate portrayal of Ruben "Hurricane" Carter. Denzel was a strong contender at the time the nominations were announced and then he dropped off the radar. IMO he should've won that year. (I haven't seen Ali)

Ooooh! This should stir up lots of anti-GP sentiment. From Ananova: Gosford Park director says past Oscar winner was 'dreadful' Robert Altman has savaged two previous Oscar-winning films. He says Titanic was "dreadful" and has also criticised American Beauty. Altman is up for Best Director for Gosford Park. He told Los Angeles Confidential magazine: "Titanic I thought was the most dreadful piece of work I've ever seen in my entire life. "Another film that I think is equally bad was American Beauty. So badly acted and directed. But people like that."

The smear campaign is ugly, I agree. But I still think LOTR should win. Did you ever think that all this publicity might indeed give ABM the Oscar? Who was it that said there's no such thing as bad publicity?

So badly acted and directed. But people like that." Like Mr. T, Mr. Altman? I have only liked two of his film MASH and GP. I am not a fan.

Karen, take another look at the Post article. Miramax was the first one to talk to Drudge about ABM, and they worked the phones to bad mouth MR. Re: Denzel and Hurricane. The circumstances are somewhat similar, but Carter was a public figure and his trial a matter of public record, and therefore one could argue that it should be held to a different standard than John Nash's story. Characters and motives in H. were invented (such as crooked cops and DAs) so it wasn't just a matter of leaving some things out. One thing that I can't understand is the accusation that ABM is a whitewash. ABM contains some very negative stuff about Nash--the guy almost shot his wife and nearly let his child drown. Yet certain members of the media would have us believe that these "incidents" are somehow less damaging that an admission of alleged homosexual encounters. They certainly have their agenda; Moon you have converted me!;-) Re: Altman. I've said it from the start: he's an egomaniacal ass. Where does he get off publicly criticizing someone else's work at a time when 2 of his actresses are up for awards? He should be talking up GP and supporting his actresses--not needlessly infuriating potential voters with his meaningless pontifications. On a brighter note: did anyone see Dennis Quaid on Larry King's show last night? Yum! And he seems like a genuinely good guy, too.

(Mari), Where does he get off publicly criticizing someone else's work at a time when 2 of his actresses are up for awards? He should be talking up GP and supporting his actresses--not needlessly infuriating potential voters with his meaningless pontifications.he's an egomaniacal ass This is typical Altman. When he loses the BD Oscar, he'll have something else to whine about. Talk about setting up a scene!!! Yet certain members of the media would have us believe that these "incidents" are somehow less damaging that an admission of alleged homosexual encounters. They certainly have their agenda; Moon you have converted me!;-) It seems so obvious. Why isn't this issue addressed in the media? Because they are all chicken s... to be politically incorrect. See how far "their" agenda has grown. The right to freedom of speech has gone underground and I don't see anyone making paper chains around The Advocate's office. ;-) Thanks for understanding, Mari.

OK, I've reread and see the paragraph in question re Miramax's involvement. Still, it would make no sense to me, given ITB's poor chances and Miramax's releationship with Universal, co-partners on numerous films (like BJD). The elimination of homosexual references came out at the same time as the film. My take on this whole thing is not a gay conspiracy, but rather that the criticism based on these omissions was ineffectual and wasn't going to keep ABM from winning. Therefore, they pulled the R (not race, but religion) card. Trust me, this one would've done it with a large percentage of Academy voters. Waddaya mean the crooked cops and DAs were invented? Going to put my Bob Dylan album on now. ;-D

My take on this whole thing is not a gay conspiracy Oh, I don't think it's a gay conspiracy either. I do feel that many members of the media pounce on anything that is not politically correct, and the film's detractors therefore knew exactly what buttons to push. This is a film about a guy who said and did (or attempted to do) some nasty things when he was mentally ill. I don't have to like him (or like the person he was while he was ill) in order to enjoy the film. Was there an outcry from women's and children's advocacy groups, or more to the point, any attempt to orchestrate discontent about the film among these groups? No. Because their constituencies don't vote for the Oscars! Actually, I think you and I are saying the same thing. Moon and Karen, read Charles Krauthammer's column in the new issue of Time. It's excellent. It's about how political correctness is driving public policy in the area of airport security--and how self-defeating and potentially dangerous this is. Waddaya mean the crooked cops and DAs were invented? Dan Hedaya's character was a complete fabrication, nothing like the cop who actually worked the case who was, by all accounts, honorable and fair. But showing that in the film wouldn't stack the deck in Carter's favor, would it. Also, Carter never was exonerated--in fact, in all likelihood (and I'm being generous here), he was guilty. He got off on a technicality. It's a matter of public record. By the time he reached adulthood, he had a record of violent assault a mile long. As for Bob D's song, the answer my friend is blowin' in the sports pages.;-) Carter was a mediocre boxer at best, lost many of his fights, never in a million years would have been the champ, and was fairly beaten by Joey G.--he was not the victim of bias in that fight. But then again, that wouldn't make for a good song. :-(

As for Bob D's song, the answer my friend is blowin' in the sports pages.;-) LOL! (but Denzel was excellent, which is my point, and whose chances of winning were no better than a rolling stone ;-D once the critics took out after the movie's inaccuracies.)

The innuendoes are flying in here today!!!

[R. Altman]"Another film that I think is equally bad was American Beauty. So badly acted and directed. But people like that." LOL.You 'n me both,Bob.

Monitoring the casting front Lord Of The Rings star Viggo Mortensen is in talks to star in a new film about the Borgias. Director Neil Jordan is planning to start work on the production in the summer. Mortensen is in line to play Cesare, a priest who furthers his family's power by plundering the nation. Also a Nash update John Forbes Nash, the schizophrenic mathematician whose story inspired the Oscar-nominated film A Beautiful Mind, is to talk publicly about the movie for the first time on US TV. The interview will be shown on the CBS network's 60 Minutes programme on 27 March. The Nobel Prize-winning mathematician has been the subject of a war of words recently, with US newspapers publishing claims and counter-claims about his alleged prejucides and adultery. Oscar-nominated director Ron Howard has defended the film for omitting certain episodes of Nash's life, saying he intended to capture the essence of Nash's life, not to produce a biography.

Ann Hope you have a marvelous birthday today and that it continues for a few more days. Wish I could be there. ;-D

Happy birthday, Ann!

A very Happy Birthday, Ann!

Jumped the gun...We celebrated Ann's B'day last night at The Ivy!! Lotsa' Chardonnay! Hope you had a super day, Ann.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ANN! I hope you're sending Evie home sober!:-)

Thanks everyone and a special thanks to Donna and Evelyn and especially to Evelyn, I would recommend The Ivy to anyone, the food is wonderful, Colin has good taste.

Sorry to be a little late to wish you a very happy birthday, Ann. It's still March 14th on this side of the Atlantic so it's still your birthday here! Glad you got to celebrate with firth friends and good food!

Happy Belated Ann! The Ivy is a great place....you guys must have had connections to get a reservation! Or know Elton John... ;-P

Happy birthday Ann. Hope it was the best one ever.

Hey, if I can sneak in here before the topic changes, the ever-late Caribou can wish you many returns of the day, Ann. Wish we all could have been there to celebrate at Hamlet. Now, if they will just find a screenplay for CF to say that one in, we'll have a collection.:-)

Being rather new to this site, some of the abbreviations used are beyond my ken. I can work out some of them,ODB,etc, but others I find impossible. Would it be possible to print out an list, or is this already available? Hope I posted this under the correct topic.

Unfortunately, there is no list. :-( Our abbreviations fall into two categories: standard internet and Drool or Colin specific. I'm not sure which baffles you. The standard type are ROTF(etc) or LOL type, which you can find at websites if you do a search for internet emoticons and acronyms. The Drool or Colin type mainly consist of initials that represent actor's or author's names or movie titles or similar. If you're in doubt, feel free to ask.

Review of "About A Boy" in ScreenDaily: Dirs: Paul and Chris Weitz. UK/US. 2002. 100mins Will Britain's latest semi-confessional romantic comedy be the new Bridget Jones's Diary? It certainly has the right ingredients: a powerful combination of best-selling novelist Nick Hornby, Hugh Grant and the confident, commercial touch which co-producers Working Title have brought to this genre in their three previous outings with Grant (Four Weddings And A Funeral, Notting Hill and Bridget Jones). Released in the UK on April 26, About A Boy has not - yet - been trumpeted by the massive media blitz which announced Ms Jones's arrival. But prospects look bright, thanks to all of the above elements, plus the film's overall polish and the apparently bottomless public appetite for this material: a BBC adaptation of Tony Parsons� Man And Boy, also about single fatherhood in North London, is broadcast later this month. It will be revealing to see how the film opens internationally without, as with the other films, a major American star or even a significant female character (it's released in the US on 17 May as ounter-programming to Star Wars: Episode II � Attack Of the Clones). Still, Grant, seeming to get better the further he's allowed to extend his range, delivers a terrific central performance, as acerbic but more complex than his sexy snake in Bridget Jones. Grant plays Will Freeman, the archetypal Hornby anti-hero: a commitment-phobic North Londoner in his thirties who prides himself on his terminal hipness. Living on the proceeds of a novelty Christmas hit written by his father years ago, he idles the days away in his gadget-filled apartment watching afternoon quiz shows, playing CDs and reading style magazines. "I like to think I'm an island," he muses. "I like to think I'm pretty cool. I like to think I'm... Ibiza". There's a huge chasm between his suave self-image and the sad reality. Reasoning that single mothers are the perfect no-strings date, since they're panting for sex but prevented by their child from getting too involved with a man, Will joins a single parents' support group, inventing a young son for the purpose. Here, a chain of events leads him to Marcus (Nicholas Hoult). Marcus is 12, going on 40. His depressive mother, Fiona (Toni Collette), has raised him with hippy values and a grisly haircut which make him a target for bullying at his new school. Even the playground nerds reject him. When Fiona attempts suicide, Marcus realises that two is a dangerously small family unit and decides to expand it. Unfortunately for Will, he happens to be around on the fateful day. Working Title made Hornby's previous novel, High Fidelity, with a British director, Stephen Frears, and an Americanised story, transposed to Chicago. About A Boy takes the opposite tack. It returns to London (trendy Clerkenwell this time, rather than Hornby's grungier stamping grounds of Holloway and Finsbury Park). But the directors and co-writers are Americans. Paul and Chris Weitz, who previously made American Pie, seem at first an odd choice. But they keep the action moving along nimbly - often using wipes to zip between the various characters - and show an empathy for the British setting. Besides, American Pie was beneath the gross-out humour, a sweet-tempered comedy of embarrassment involving emotionally arrested males: in fact, not unlike this. Hornby's writing - so effortless on the page - presents a minefield for the screen adaptor, with its ambiguous mix of New Lad bravado and New Man anxiety. The film of Fever Pitch failed completely to capture it; High Fidelity used the uneasy device of having the protagonist speak straight to camera. About A Boy is even trickier, since the book is told from two points of view, with alternate chapters following Will and Marcus. The film weaves together their contrasting thoughts in voice-over and, while Will's inevitably dominates, Nicholas Hoult as the quirky, isolated Marcus definitely holds his own. It's elegantly done, though the film constantly threatens to turn into a male bonding two-hander, at the expense of the secondary roles. The smart screenplay is full of lines not in the original novel but exactly nailing its sentiments. The most fundamental change is the loss of a major subplot triggered by the 1994 suicide of Nirvana singer Kurt Cobain, presumably because the setting has been updated to the present - and also because the writers felt one suicide bid was quite enough for a light comedy. While well handled, their alternative is a little pat: the essence of a Hornby novel is the unresolved messiness of his people's lives. It also has the effect of marginalising a number of characters, including the most forceful female one, Marcus's rebellious schoolmate Ellie. Hornby's novels have always appealed to women, but translated to the screen, his female characters tend to come across as bit players (High Fidelity) or whining killjoys (Fever Pitch). It was a good move here to cast a powerful presence like Toni Collette as the potentially draggy Fiona, but Rachel Weisz, as Will's love interest, enters the story late in the game and has a struggle to establish herself.

The smart screenplay is full of lines not in the original novel but exactly nailing its sentiments. Very critical. Poor NH. *** Angelina Jolie is quoted in the Miami Herald today saying that Beyond Borders is the best script she has ever read. Was Colin ever offered a role in this or not? Could he have turned it down?

"I like to think I'm an island," he muses. "I like to think I'm pretty cool. I like to think I'm... Ibiza". Pfft! That's very funny, actually. I wonder if it's from the book. Sounds like Huge has himself a winner. I wonder what anecdotes he'll repeat ad nauseum this time on the talk show circuit.:-( I saw the Jolie quote in my local paper, too, Moon. Could he have turned it down? I don't even want to think about this possibility.:-( I keep coming back to the quote from the GQ article, post-BJD: "I suppose I should have gone to LA and bagged something." Yep, you should have. Clive Owen sure did. Did anyone watch the 60 Minutes interview last night with John Nash? I liked Ed Bradley's piece on Judi Dench, and enjoyed seeing her in all those old clips; he did a much better job than Charlie Rose. They said Judi has work lined up through 2003. Amazing.

(Mari) I wonder if it's from the book. It doesn't sound like it, but I haven't read the book for a couple of years. I saw the Jolie quote in my local paper, too, Moon. Actually, I think the quote originated in a much longer article a few days back about how the Ethiopian govt was complaining because they were filming in Namibia. Let me see where that might have been...Be right back... Here it is: http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20020315/ap_en_mo/angelina_jolie_3 I watched 60 Minutes last night as well and taped it for Ev. Didn't like that they showed Judi crying though. I wonder about the future work plans, as she's recently made statements about taking a break.

Didn't like that they showed Judi crying though. That's always a tough call to make. In the context of the conversation, it wasn't exploitative. And it did add to the profile. I'd imagine if she objected, they'd have edited it out. I wonder about the future work plans, as she's recently made statements about taking a break. Her definition of taking a break probably differs from that of some others. ;-) Here's a woman who has worked 2 jobs simultaneously on more than one occasion, and who leaves herself 2 days off between projects. I think she absolutely loves what she does and, therefore, time off isn't the plum that it may be for some.

I think the quote originated in a much longer article a few days back about how the Ethiopian govt was complaining because they were filming in Namibia. It did, I skipped that. I didn't want to bore anyone here with politics. ;-) Didn't see 60 Min. (Mari), Judi has work lined up through 2003. Amazing. The sad truth is that many other actors do too. Does anyone know anything about the play Madonna will be doing in London?

http://www.empireonline.co.uk/news/news.asp?3796 I see that Huge will be in another Richard Curtis film. Now what exactly is a 'luvvie'? I've heard certain other Brits use the term frequently but can't find a specific definition. I can't wait to see the Inside the Actor's Studio interview. I'm not fond of the host but it's a good forum for a witty actor.

I found a definition: luvvie n. A luvvie is a rather overexuberant (and almost invariably gay) thespian. Referring to actors as luvvies or luvvie darlings is rather scornful and demeaning - it's true, though, that a few of the older, camper actors do indeed refer to each other as "luvvie". Seems to me it's more of an endearment these days.

Russell Crowe: Will Beautiful Acting Beat a Moody Mind? LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - He may be moody, rude, prone to outbursts of temper and a drink too many -- after the cameras have stopped rolling. But there is no question that Russell Crowe sure can act, not just act up. Crowe, the Australian-raised actor barely known to world audiences four years ago, could be on the brink of joining Hollywood's most beloved next Sunday by winning two best actor Oscars in a row -- an honor bestowed only on Tom "Mr. Nice Guy" Hanks, and curmudgeonly 1940s and 50s leading man Spencer Tracy. Three stellar performances in three years -- from the whistle-blowing tobacco executive in "The Insider" to the noble Roman soldier in "Gladiator" and now his riveting performance as schizophrenic math genius John Nash in "A Beautiful Mind" -- have brought Crowe his third consecutive Oscar nomination. Which should leave voters of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Science with a clear choice if, in a perfect world, the Oscars were only about top performances and best movies. But ever since the Academy Awards were invented in 1929 as a way of promoting the new talkies to a worldwide audience, the Oscars have been as much about image as talent. "The movies and the performances are just part of what the Academy voters are looking at here. This is an award that decides who's in and who's out, who's cool and who's not," said Tom O'Neil, host of the goldderby.com Web site. [Rebecca's fav] OSCAR SUICIDE? And many industry experts are wondering if Crowe, 37, may have blown his chance to join that elite club because of an angry confrontation last month, seen by only a handful of people but reported round the world, with a BBC producer who cut a poem from Crowe's acceptance speech at a British Academy of Film and Television Awards broadcast. The ugly outburst seemed to confirm long-standing industry gossip about Crowe as a man with a reputation for loutish behavior and was reported just as ballots landed in the mail boxes of Academy voters. Crowe both apologized to the producer and testily dismissed the incident. "The Oscars are supposed to be about the performance you've given. I'm not nominated for a Worst Argument with an English TV Executive," he told reporters at the Sydney premiere of "A Beautiful Mind." Others are not so sure. "It is possible he committed Oscar suicide -- the gladiator literally falling on his sword of hubris -- because your performance off the screen is as important as your performance on screen," said O'Neil. But as Time magazine critic Richard Schickel notes, the incident didn't affect his chances with the Screen Actor's Guild last week, where Crowe carried off a best actor award to add to those he has already garnered from the British Academy and the Golden Globes. "It's a pretty damn good performance," said Schickel of Crowe's portrayal of the quirky, mentally ill Nobel laureate. "At some point it may well be that they (the Academy) will just vote for the performance. I think people have already discounted the fact that he's hot-tempered and slightly vulgar fellow in his own self, and say okay, but he's still an awful good actor," Schickel said. WASHINGTON IN THE WINGS If Academy voters are looking instead to reward both a beautiful actor and a man of charm, they need look no further than Denzel Washington. Washington, a 6 foot, handsome, 47-year-old has politely displayed his versatility over the years in roles ranging from black activist Malcolm X in the 1992 movie of the same name, to a homophobic lawyer in the AIDS courtroom drama "Philadelphia." He is nominated this year for his role as a cop gone bad in the violent "Training Day." The role is a change of direction for Washington, an actor better known for playing strong but sympathetic characters that seem to reflect his own persona as a modest family man, father of four, and discreet worker on behalf of charities such as the Boys and Girls Club of America and the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund. Many felt he was robbed of an Oscar in 2000 for his powerful portrayal of boxer Rubin Carter in "The Hurricane", and with the Academy apparently eager this year to redress its past neglect of black movie talent, Washington would be a worthy candidate to succeed Sidney Poitier, the only other African-American to be awarded a best actor Oscar -- and that was in 1963. The Reel.com movie Web site said few actors had gone against type as spectacularly as the "normally beatific" Washington in "Training Day." "Rather than play it safe, Washington ditched his increasingly cliched, overly noble African-American hero persona and embraced his dark side. By doing so, he became the seductive nature of evil made flesh and his bravery should be rewarded," it said.

Wow!!! Are they all this hard on Russell Crowe and Denzel Washington? Or is this well deserved? I need to go check their topics. I watched them get their awards and was captivated. Perhaps, I was only blinded by their personae?

I my mind the Oscar should go to Tom Wilkinson, with Russell behind him. I am not too sure about rewarding Denzel for his past losses. He's a great actor, but a Best Actor this year? But yes, it is all about politics. I am sure the ABM stuff may actually help them not hurt them. Every best pic is taking pot shots so I don't know what the big deal is here.

My vote would also go to Tom Wilkinson, Becka. If Russell loses (and I predict he will) it will not be because of the ABM bad-mouthing (people still like the film), but because of his behavior at the BAFTAs. Sure, it should be solely about the performance, but when you have human beings voting, they take personalitites into account. The irony, of course, is that sometime in the near future, Russell will be nommed again, and people will say, oh he got cheated out of it for ABM so let's reward him this year. ;-) Anyone want to do some Oscar predictions in the major categories? And also add who your vote would go to?

Murph's Crowe site (Prose and the Passion) is singled out in USA Today! Go to: http://www.usatoday.com/life/cyber/2002/03/18/web-celeb.htm

I thought this was cute, from the imdb. Evelyn, I wonder if "wheelchair parts" take center stage in nursing home movies? ;-) ;-) Age No Barrier In Dench's Hollywood Dame Judi Dench's recent Oscar successes keep her in movies - something that she is more than happy about. The Iris star believes that Hollywood provides more opportunities to older actors than the stage can. She says, "There's more for people of my age in Hollywood, I think. There's always somebody shuffling across in the background. Wheelchair parts. I'm not proud anymore. Now real wheelchair parts - they're a real plus because you don't even have to learn the moves. Crikey. I could do with one now." Dench is up for another Oscar, this time for Best Actress, at the Academy Awards ceremony next Sunday having previously been named Best Supporting Actress in 1999 for her role in Shakespeare In Love.

Congrats, Murph! I just read that Penelope Cruz is co-starring with Jude Law in his next film. She'll get another chance to botch up a part. Anyone want to do some Oscar predictions in the major categories? And also add who your vote would go to? Oscar picks: BP, Moulin Rouge-- me LOTR BD, Opie-- me LOTR (forgot his name) BA, Russell C-- me RC Ba, Nicole K-- me NK B FF, Amelie-- me Amelie

Moon: She'll get another chance to botch up a part. LOL, I am in total agreement with you! I don't think I've liked her anything I've seen her in. Now, my oscar picks BP: LOTR (Peter Jackson); however, because this is a series, they may reward him later)(CNN stated that) BD: Peter Jackson (but because of what was stated above, could go to RH) BA: Denzel Washington (hands down)(Russell Crowe is too moody, and Spencer Tracy and Tom Hanks deserved those awards[being critical because I LOVE Spencer Tracy movies!]) Ba: Sissy Spacek (Musicals rarely get any big awards nowadays) Let the countdown begin....

Yes, congrats Murph! *clapclap* (USA Today) Plus, someone has been having a good time with Photoshop. Heehee! Indeed.

Moon and Laura, give us your supporting acting pics, and screenplay choices, too. Here's a full list of nominees: http://www.oscar.com/nominees/nominees_index.html

ooh, I know this probably belongs on BJD, but maybe not Shirley Henderson (Shazzer) and Gemma Jones have signed onto Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. SH will play Moaning Myrtle (a ghost who haunts the girls toilet) GJ will play Madame Pomfrey (she's like the school nurse) Miriam Margolyes will play greenthumbed Professor Sprout. Sounds like some interesting casting; however, Moaning Myrtle was all of 14?????

Best Supporting Actor: Jim Broadbent (for Iris AND Moulin Rouge, even though the latter was nommed for that, it gives him an in). Best Supporting Actress: Helen Mirren (just because I adore her and she's married to Taylor Hackford) Animated Feature Film: Shrek, hands down, not competition there at all. Writing: Memento (it's unusual and brilliant)

My Oscar Pics: BP - LOTR (my choice LOTR) BD - Opie - they will split both BP and BD between LOTR and ABM, could go either way (my choice Peter Jackson or even David Lynch) Actor - Denzel has a lot of support (TW for me) Actress - Halle has also gained (my dear Renee so deserves this) S Actor - Ian McKellen (love IK and JB had an amazing year or the brillant Ben Kingsley - don't ask me to choose, I would be happy with any of these three!) S Actress - Jennifer Connolly (would like KW or MT) Adapted Screenplay - LOTR Original Screenplay - Memento

Oscar picks: BP, Moulin Rouge-- me LOTR BD, Opie-- me Peter Jackson BA, Russell C-- me RC Ba, Nicole K-- me NK (I am hoping that RZ pulls it off) BS actress Jennifer Connolly Best Supporting Actor: Jim Broadbent Adapted Screenplay - LOTR Original Screenplay - Memento Animated Feature Film - Shrek FF, Amelie-- me Amelie

Oooh, lots of MR and LOTR fans here, eh? Well, I'll change that. ;-) ;-) This is fun; we'll see who comes closest, and if we have any unanimous choices. Mine: Picture--will win: ABM. My Vote: In The Bedroom Director--will win: Opie. My vote: Richie Cunningham ;-) Best Actor--will win: Denzel Washington. My vote: Tom Wilkinson. Best Actress--will win: Sissy Spacek. My vote: Renee Z. (But knowing she doesn't have a chance, I'd be ok with Sissy). Supporting Actor--will win: Ian McKellan. My vote: Ben Kingsley. Supporting Actress--will win & my vote: Jennifer Connelly Adapted Screenplay--will win: ABM. My vote: In The Bedroom Original Screenplay--will win: Gosford Park. My vote: Memento (LOVE IT!) Animated Film--will win & my vote: Shrek Foreign language film--will win: Amelie. My vote: No Man's Land Song--Vanilla Sky (am including for one reason only and his name is Paul McCartney! Yeah, yeah, yeah!:-)

The April 2002 Esquire Mag. has a very funny article on the Oscars and the current picks for Best Picture and then some. It is not on-line. :-( Mari you should read what he says about In The Bedroom. Here is the info: Page 62 The Screen Cameron Crowes all-thumbs attempt to be daring, why Shallow Hal beats the hell out of In the Bedroom, and several extra helpings of Gwyneth Paltrow: Esquires third annual Alternative Oscars. [ By Tom Carson ]

Latest on Cold Mountain according to the DM: Anthony Minghella directing , NK to play Ada....now that ex TC is out. If Jennifer Connelly gets Best Supporting , ABM gets BPic & Opie gets Best Director, that's an obvious slap to RC, and IMO diminishes the Academy's competence who ostensibly are supposed to judge talent and not behavior.

If Jennifer Connelly gets Best Supporting , ABM gets BPic & Opie gets Best Director, that's an obvious slap to RC, and IMO diminishes the Academy's competence who ostensibly are supposed to judge talent and not behavior. I agree! Most of the Academy members are not Saints. Plus, no actor likes to have his lines cut. I think they'll give it to RC. Welcome back, Evelyn!

And the honors keep rolling in... ;-D Tom Wilkinson has been named best actor by American magazine Modern Maturity. Charlotte Rampling, Robert Altman and Shrek were also honoured. The magazine launched the awards in a bid to influence Hollywood to make more films for older moviegoers. They honour films that "address the concerns and dreams of people over 50". Full Monty star Wilkinson won a La Chaise d'Or award. He is also nominated for an Oscar for his role in the film In The Bedroom. Rampling was named best actress for Under The Sand, and Altman was named best director for Gosford Park. The best film was Australian movie Lantana, and animated film Shrek was named Best Movie for Grownups Who Refuse To Grow Up.

If Curtis is directing, he's not going to have a lot of time to work on a BJD script. More info from Screendaily: Working Title Films and National Lottery franchise DNA Films have teamed to produce leading UK writer Richard Curtis' directing debut, a romantic comedy in which Hugh Grant is to play the British prime minister. Grant is in talks to play a bachelor PM who falls in love on his first day in office with the girl who brings him his tea. Emma Thompson is also understood to be in talks to star in the film, which has the working title of Love Actually. The film interweaves ten separate stories about Londoners looking for love in the run-up to Christmas, climaxing on Christmas Eve. Shooting is scheduled for the autumn. "I know Richard will make an excellent front-seat director!" said producer and DNA Films co-chief Duncan Kenworthy. "And with 20 leading roles in the film, it will be exciting to work with a really wide range of talented British actors." Having first teamed with Curtis on Four Weddings And A Funeral, Kenworthy went on to produce Curtis' Notting Hill, also with Hugh Grant, outside DNA. The franchise takes an in association credit on Love Actually, but is not investing in the production. Working Title co-chiefs Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner are also producing, making this their sixth film with Curtis. Along with Notting Hill and Four Weddings, Working Title collaborated with Curtis on Bean, The Tall Guy and Bridget Jones's Diary. "We are excited about Richard channelling his comic brilliance into directing the same way he does into scripts," said Bevan. "Let's hope there's fun in store," added Curtis.

Tom Wilkinson has been named best actor by American magazine Modern Maturity. Hee hee. My mother in law gets that mag--I think it's published by AARP. They have excellent taste.:-) And with 20 leading roles in the film . . . Shooting is scheduled for the autumn. Hmmm, sounds like 19 too many.;-) How much do you want to bet . . . I'm guessing Curtis will have the BJD script long wrapped by the autumn. Maybe Helen's comment about the script still being worked on was a way to deflect further questions about it. Welcome back, Evelyn!

And with 20 leading roles in the film . . . Sounds like a Love Boat episode. ;-D

Woo Hoo, thanks Boss, just got your lovely Bafta tape! What in the heck where those things on their seat rests? Cans of beer (which would explain the loopy looks from some of the attendees)? But very nice, if only the Oscars could be this much fun. You weren't kidding about the camera liking Livia - I'm jealous! And Bryonny, hate to tell you this but after all my rewinding the tape for ODB's sightings, the quality is very ill indeed! ;-) ;-P

And with 20 leading roles in the film . . . (Mari), Hmmm, sounds like 19 too many.;-) How much do you want to bet . . . Please finish your sentence, Mari. I enjoy a wager. (Karen), Sounds like a Love Boat episode. ;-D Sounds like he wants to be the next Bob Altman. ;-)

Sounds like a Love Boat episode. ;-D LOL, Karen, yes it does. Please finish your sentence, Mari. I enjoy a wager. Ok. I was going to write, "How much do you want to bet that CF will play Captain Steubing?" ;-)

"How much do you want to bet that CF will play Captain Steubing?" ;-) I'd be willing to pay big money to hear him sing the theme song. ;-)

(Moon) I'd be willing to pay big money to hear him sing the theme song. ;-) Fortunately, you'll only have to fork over about $9 to hear him warble again shortly... ;-D

"Tony-winning Cabaret Emcee Alan Cumming has been cast in a new pilot for NBC. Entitled "Zero Effect," Cumming will play Daryl Zero in the upcoming program, which is based on the Jake Kasdan film, also titled "Zero Effect." David Julian Hirsh, who starred on the recent Showtime series "Leap Years," is also among the cast." Whatever happened to the TV series RE was supposed to be in?

I should add that I get Modern Maturity too, and it's not because I want it. When working at Scudder, we managed their portfolio, and we all became instant members of AARP (even though I was 27 at the time); however, will only be 34 in a few weeks.... start playing the funeral march now.... (can you believe 34????) And my daughter will be 12... okay, enough rambling...

These are CNN's Paul Clinton's predictions for the Oscars this year. ******************************************************************************* Wide-open race for Oscar From hobbits to professors to singers, toss-ups for the golden statue March 19, 2002 Posted: 12:42 PM EST (1742 GMT) By Paul Clinton CNN Reviewer (CNN) -- Once again, Hollywood has set an all-time record for box office revenue, with more than $8 billion in ticket sales for 2001. Unfortunately, this does not necessarily translate into great films that will stand the test of time. As usual, Oscar-worthy movies were few and far between until the waning weeks of the year, when pictures with Academy Award potential hit the country's cineplexes like a tidal wave. This year is proving to be the most wide-open Oscar race in a long time, with no sure things in any of the major categories. But I'll stick my neck out anyway and make my usual predictions as to "what should win" and "what will win." The great thing is that no matter how wrong -- or right -- I am, in a couple of weeks nobody will remember who won and who didn't -- except the winners, losers and their agents. Quick: Who won best supporting actor last year? See? (See end of story for the answer.) Best actor: Russell Crowe ("A Beautiful Mind"), Sean Penn ("I Am Sam"), Will Smith ("Ali"), Denzel Washington ("Training Day"), Tom Wilkinson ("In The Bedroom"). Once again, Crowe is one of the main contenders for the top prize, and winning best actor from the Screen Actors Guild and the Golden Globes are good signs. Oscar has agreed with SAG six out of seven times that the award has been available, and the Globes also have a good record. Crowe gives a masterful performance in this film based (apparently loosely) on the life of John Forbes Nash Jr., a mathematical genius, a schizophrenic, and a Nobel laureate. Crowe is one of the most powerful actors on screen today, and if he wins, he'll join the rarefied world of previous consecutive winners, most recently Tom Hanks for 1993's "Philadelphia" and 1994's "Forrest Gump." If there's another odds-on favorite for best actor, it's Denzel Washington. Not winning the SAG Award could hurt, but he did win the American Film Institute Award. "Training Day" is the first time Washington has played an out-and-out villain, and his awesome power as an actor who can hold the screen like a vise is on full display. However, Oscar usually doesn't like bad guys. The other three nominees turn in excellent performances, but their chances are slim. Penn's highly sentimental film has not been very successful, and he's disdainful of the very concept of actors competing against each other. Smith's performance as Muhammad Ali is nothing short of miraculous, but not being nominated for a SAG Award is not a good sign, and his movie has not been a hit with critics or the public. And in this field, with these nominees, Wilkinson's nomination for "In the Bedroom" is a long shot to win. Will win: Washington Should win: Washington Clinton predicts Halle Berry will get the best actress Oscar for her role in "Monster's Ball." Best actress: Halle Berry ("Monster's Ball"), Judi Dench ("Iris"), Nicole Kidman ("Moulin Rouge"), Sissy Spacek ("In The Bedroom"), Renee Zellweger ("Bridget Jones's Diary"). The favorites in this category are Kidman and Spacek, with Berry coming up quickly. "Moulin Rouge" was a highly risky venture and Kidman could have fallen flat on her beautiful face. Instead, she soared -- and scored -- as Satine, a French courtesan and nightclub performer at the infamous Moulin Rouge in Paris during the fading years of the 19th century. This is her first nomination. She's both sexy and funny in this tour-de-force performance. Spacek is not only a gifted actress of the highest order, she's also one of the nicest people in the business. This is her sixth nomination, all in the best actress category; she won in 1980 for her portrayal of Loretta Lynn in "Coal Miner's Daughter." Spacek's carefully understated and layered performance in "In the Bedroom" as a mother who loses her son, and then has to fight for justice, is seamless in its complete perfection. Berry gives the best performance of her life in the deeply disturbing and intensely dramatic "Monster's Ball." This is her first nomination, but her early best actress prize from the National Board of Review and then her surprise win as best actress at the SAG Awards make her a main contender. The other nominees -- Dench and Zellweger -- are long shots, though Zellweger has already bucked the odds by being nominated for a comedy. Will win: Berry Should win: Berry Clinton says Marisa Tomei's "In the Bedroom" performance is stronger than her 1992 Oscar-winning role in "My Cousin Vinny." Best supporting actress: Jennifer Connelly ("A Beautiful Mind"), Helen Mirren ("Gosford Park"), Maggie Smith("Gosford Park"), Marisa Tomei ("In The Bedroom") and Kate Winslet ("Iris"). This is often a wild-card category, and it's no different this year. Connelly has the best role of her young career with "A Beautiful Mind" as Alicia Nash, the wife of Russell Crowe's John Forbes Nash Jr. This is her first nomination. She plays her character from college girl to old woman, and her steady presence is vital to Crowe's success in the far flashier role of her husband. Mirren is an actor's actor, and this is her second nomination in this category. After her SAG Award win, she must be considered the favorite. "Gosford Park" is the best Robert Altman film in years, and Mirren's role as the head housekeeper at a posh English estate is brilliantly played. The Academy will want to acknowledge "Gosford Park," but it's doubtful it will get best picture. Smith, a two-time Oscar winner, has stolen nearly every scene in every film she's been in for the last five decades. The danger here is that she's up against fellow "Gosford Park" star Mirren -- the favorite, according to many -- and this could split the vote. Tomei was a wild card when she won this category for "My Cousin Vinny" in 1992. There would be some sweet irony, and well-deserved validation, if she won this year for her strong performance in "In The Bedroom." Winslet's work as the young title character in "Iris" is an exceptionally strong and nuanced performance. Should win: Connelly (only because I flipped a coin between her and Smith) Will win: Mirren Clinton calls Jon Voight's portrayal of Howard Cosell in "Ali" "very convincing" but doesn't predict him to win best supporting actor. Best supporting actor: Jim Broadbent ("Iris"), Ethan Hawke ("Training Day"), Ben Kingsley ("Sexy Beast"), Ian McKellen ("The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring"), Jon Voight ("Ali"). McKellen, probably this category's favorite, can do no wrong in the eyes of many of his peers. This is his second nomination, the first coming for "Gods and Monsters" (1998), and many felt he was robbed that year when he lost to the overacting antics of Roberto Benigni in "Life is Beautiful." "Rings" has been losing all of the pre-Oscar technical awards to "Moulin Rouge," which doesn't bode well for success on Oscar night despite its 13 nominations, but this could work in McKellen's favor. Besides, Sir Ian is a British Knight, and Oscar is a sucker for such titles. Voight is unrecognizable in his role as Howard Cosell in "Ali." This is his fourth nomination -- he won best actor for "Coming Home" in 1978 -- and he's made the transition from leading man to character actor with style, skill and grace. Kingsley is mesmerizing in "Sexy Beast," but the film was not widely seen or admired by the public, and he's a long shot. Broadbent was extraordinary in "Iris," and he also turned in a career-defining performance in "Moulin Rouge" this year. This his first nomination. Hawke's nomination -- also is first -- was the big surprise this year in this category. However, if Denzel wins -- which I think he will -- it will be unlikely that the Academy will honor this film twice in the acting category. Should win: Ian McKellen Will win: Ian McKellen Best director: Ron Howard ("A Beautiful Mind"), Ridley Scott ("Black Hawk Down"), Robert Altman ("Gosford Park"), Peter Jackson ("The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring"), David Lynch ("Mulholland Drive"). Howard is the Oscar night favorite after winning the top honor from the Directors Guild of America. But Howard also won the Guild award in 1995 for Apollo 13" and didn't win the Oscar -- indeed, he wasn't even nominated. Still, the Academy has failed to followed the DGA's lead only five times in its 54-year history. Altman is an American icon, a total maverick and a Hollywood outsider. This is his seventh nomination, and some may give him their votes because he's not getting any younger and they might look at it as a "lifetime achievement" honor. "Gosford Park" is Altman's most commercial and accessible film in years. Jackson is in a very strange position. He's a first-time nominee who hasn't just made a film, he's created a universe. But -- herein lies the rub -- he's also arguably made one big movie, which he's dividing into three parts and releasing one at a time over three years. Many voters may just think "Well, he has two more chances to win for the 'Rings' trilogy, so I'll give him my vote later." He's a long shot. Scott and Lynch have little chance, despite their fine work. Will win: Howard Should win: Jackson Clinton suggests the odds are against "Gosford Park" winning the best picture award. Best picture: "A Beautiful Mind," "Gosford Park," "In The Bedroom," "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring," "Moulin Rouge." To some, "A Beautiful Mind" is the no-brainer (no pun intended) winner for 2002. Critics filled the skies with hosannas over Crowe's performance and Howard's direction of this story about a brilliant mathematician and Nobel Prize winner who fought a decades-long battle with severe schizophrenia. Then things got nasty. (See story.) Still, "A Beautiful Mind" is one of the best films of this -- or any other -- year, and should be judged on its own merits. "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" is a magnificent achievement for all involved. This is one of those very rare films in which the screenplay lived up to the standards of the original books. But the same logic -- or lack thereof -- mentioned above regarding Jackson's chances to win best director also apply here. I would love to see "Gosford Park" win (I feel that way about two or three other nominees as well), but the odds are against it. And the odds are even longer against "In The Bedroom" and "Moulin Rouge" -- though the latter did win a Golden Globe and the Producers Guild award. Keep that in mind: the PGA has picked the best picture winner nine out of the last 12 years. Should win: "Moulin Rouge" Will win: "Lord of the Rings" And who won best supporting actor last year? Benicio Del Toro for "Traffic."

This is from the Associated Press. ******************************************************************************* The movie "A Beautiful Mind," a front-runner for Oscar, has come under criticism for taking liberties with Nash's life -- but its makers say the criticism is part of a whisper campaign to hurt the movie's Oscar chances. LOS ANGELES, California (AP) -- The makers of "A Beautiful Mind" have objected to what they say is a whisper campaign to hurt the Oscar chances of their movie, which is up for eight Academy Awards including best picture. Although no evidence has surfaced that proves a conspiracy, Universal Pictures, director Ron Howard and star Russell Crowe said they suspectsome Hollywood rivals of secretly badmouthing their film to sway academy voters. "If there's an attack strategy, that's an impolitic tool," Howard said. "It's not about reminding people of your virtues, it's about undermining the other candidate's credibility. That's a shame." Competing studios have denied involvement in the alleged smear campaign. Various news reports in recent weeks have noted that "A Beautiful Mind" leaves out some unflattering aspects of the life of John Forbes Nash, the Nobel Prize-winning mathematician whose life it chronicles. In a CBS "60 Minutes" interview, Nash and his wife, Alicia, denied allegations that he was gay, anti-Semitic or a poor father. And Sylvia Nasar, author of the 1998 biography, "A Beautiful Mind," on which the film was based, wrote a commentary in the Los Angeles Times last week that accused many media outlets, including The Associated Press, of misstating details of Nash's life. The film, which stars Crowe and Jennifer Connelly as the Nashes, portrays them throughout Nash's decades-long struggle with mental illness and its eventual remission, culminating in his winning the Nobel Prize for economics in 1994. Among its Oscar nominations are best director, actor, supporting actress and adapted screenplay, for Akiva Goldsman. (Read the CNN review.) Changing things for the movie Both Nash and Nasar said his anti-Semitic remarks were made while he was suffering from paranoid schizophrenia. "I did have strange ideas during certain periods of time," Nash, 73, said on "60 Minutes." "It's really my subconscious talking. It was really that. I know that now." Other aspects of his life not mentioned in the movie were a son he fathered by another woman before he married Alicia, and the fact that Nash and Alicia later divorced. The divorced couple lived together for many years and eventually remarried in 2001. Some reports, including one by the AP, implied that the affair took place while Nash was married, instead of before he was married, as Nasar wrote. Nasar also criticized some reports that said Nash was a homosexual. Despite a 1954 indecency arrest and allusions in her book to his flirtatious behavior with men, she said he is an avowed heterosexual. The indecency charge was later dropped, she said. Howard and screenwriter Goldsman said they changed some aspects of Nash's life to make the film more dramatic, and omitted other elements they considered unimportant to the story. Oscar voting concludes Tuesday and the Academy Awards are given out next Sunday. Crowe: Money 'takes people to a different place' Films that win major Academy Awards can usually count on significant extra box-office sales and a long shelf-life on video, and studios spend millions to promote their films to Oscar voters. Crowe said he believes the amount of money at stake leads to some dirty campaigning. "As soon as they toss that much money, that takes people to a different place," the actor said. "And this is supposed to be about the joy of filmmaking."

Will Crowe go two for two (from canoe) Q: Will Crowe go two for two? (A: If he doesn't, he has only himself to blame) By LOUIS B. HOBSON -- Calgary Sun Take heed, all ye serfs. Julia, queen of all Hollywood, has decreed that the academy anoint Denzel Washington best actor at Sunday's Oscars. Having won best actress for Erin Brockovich, Julia Roberts will be handing out the best actor Oscar this year. She of the roving eye was practically tearful last month when she announced: "I cannot absorb living in a world where I have an Oscar for best actress and Denzel doesn't have one for best actor. He should be on his third Oscar by now, and that might not be enough." Washington was nominated in 1992 for Malcolm X but he, and an equally deserving Clint Eastwood for Unforgiven, lost to Al Pacino's overwrought performance in Scent of a Woman. In 2000, Washington and Russell Crowe for The Insider were toppled by Kevin Spacey, who won for American Beauty. Roberts, who starred opposite Washington in 1993's The Pelican Brief, is right when she observes that Washington deserved an Oscar for either or both Malcolm X and The Hurricane, but she's out to lunch if she thinks he should be recognized for his performance in Training Day, which, by the way, is available on video and DVD today. It's exactly the same kind of hammy acting that swayed voters into Pacino's corner back in 1992. If Washington wins - and there's a good chance he could - it will be more for his continued excellence rather than for his corrupt cop in Training Day. It will also be because Crowe has been working overtime to convince academy members not to vote for the star of A Beautiful Mind. Crowe's temper tantrum at the British film awards did little to dispel the growing feeling in Hollywood that this is one bad boy whose ego is growing in proportion to his paycheque. Make no mistake, Crowe deserves to win back-to-back Oscars for his masterful performance as schizophrenic genius John Nash Jr. in A Beautiful Mind. Julia, dear, if anyone deserves to be getting his second Oscar in as many years, it's Crowe. The fact he's a troubled genius did not prevent him from getting the endorsement from your colleagues at this year's Screen Actors Guild awards. If Crowe loses this year, he has no one to blame but himself because he has been the frontrunner with critics since the film premiered in December. Like Crowe, British actor Tom Wilkinson is far more deserving of the best actor Oscar this year than Washington. As the grieving father of In the Bedroom, Wilkinson's quietly understated agony was often overshadowed by Sissy Spacek's and Marisa Tomei's understandable emotional outbursts. Wilkinson may be a relatively unknown quantity on this side of the Atlantic, but in his native Britain he is highly respected. His film and television performances have earned him five British film nominations, including his win in 1998 for best supporting actor in The Full Monty. Wilkinson is one of those revered character actors who can rise above his mediocre material in movies like Rush Hour and The Black Knight while turning in staggering performances in such little-seen British movies as Wilde, Priest and The Story of Father Damien. Wilkinson won't win this year but perhaps his nomination will alert producers and directors on both sides of the Atlantic to his underappreciated and underused talents. Even Will Smith's loving and careful impersonation of boxing legend Muhammad Ali in Michael Mann's unfocused biopic Ali is deserving of recognition, more for what Smith might have accomplished given a better script and better direction. Smith will steal some of the votes that would have gone to Washington had he been the only African-American actor nominated in this category. Anyone who feels this is not a factor is naive. Even Smith himself pointed out recently, "most of the 8,000 members (of the academy) are white, and you vote for what you associate with. If black people are voting, then a black person will probably win. It's not racism. It's what we relate to." Forget Sean Penn because academy voters will. If his far, far superior performance in 1995 in Dead Man Walking couldn't nab him the Oscar, his histrionics this year in I Am Sam certainly won't. It's the kind of performance that works well for TV but seems grating on the big screen. It doesn't help that Penn's disdain for Hollywood in general, and the Oscars in particular, is well documented. HOW THE OTHERS VOTED Golden Globe Awards: Russell Crowe, A Beautiful Mind. Screen Actors Guild: Russell Crowe, A Beautiful Mind. Los Angeles Film Critics Association: Denzel Washington, Training Day. New York Film Critics Circle: Tom Wilkinson, In the Bedroom. National Board of Review: Billy Bob Thornton, The Man Who Wasn't There. Broadcast Film Critics Association: Russell Crowe, A Beautiful Mind. British Academy of Film and Television Arts: Russell Crowe, A Beautiful Mind. American Film Institute: Denzel Washington, Training Day. Last year's winner: Russell Crowe, Gladiator. All-time champ: It's a seven-way tie for the most best actor wins (two), but Spencer Tracy holds the distinction of being the one with the most nominations (nine) and the only back-to-back wins in this category before Tom Hanks.

Alan Cumming has been cast in a new pilot for NBC. Entitled "Zero Effect," Cumming will play Daryl Zero in the upcoming program, which is based on the Jake Kasdan film I liked that film--Bill Pullman and Ben Stiller, offbeat and fun. Helen Mirren also just landed a lead role in a new series called Georgetown, playing a media mogul type. Not sure of the network; might be NBC as well. Wasn't Rupert supposed to be writing his series? Guess he's still working on it. Wilkinson is one of those revered character actors who can rise above his mediocre material in movies like Rush Hour and The Black Knight while turning in staggering performances in such little-seen British movies as Wilde, Priest and The Story of Father Damien. Interesting articles, Cheryl. I can't recommend Priest highly enough. Wonderful film, and Tom W. and Linus Roache are so good in it. Of course, the braintrust at Miramax opened it here on Good Friday; caused quite a stir, as I recall, which was probably good for the film, so maybe they're not so dumb.;-) Wilkinson can pretty much do anything, but he really excels at playing normal, decent folks. The AMC channel recently ran a behind the screen type piece on In The Bedroom. Todd Field spoke at length about Tom and this very quality. He remarked that so many actors want to play weirdos, head cases, etc.--what Field called easier stuff. Said it was infinitely harder to do what Tom does so well--to convey both the struggles and the joy of everyday living. I'm paraphrasing but that was the substance of it.

I thought this was hilarious: Borowitzreport Logo March 19, 2002 Breaking News PRE-OSCAR SMEAR CAMPAIGN TARGETS HOBBIT Frodo Baggins Fights Off Rumors He�s a Foul-Mouthed Drunk In the Academy Award-nominated �Lord of the Rings� film, he�s played by Elijah Wood as a winning hero who is brave, charming, and pure of heart. But in real life, Frodo Baggins is a foul-mouthed, hard-drinking lout who never met a hotel room he didn�t like � to trash. That�s what the Hollywood rumor mill is saying about Baggins one week before the Oscar ceremonies in Los Angeles. And the real-life Hobbit, who says that the timing is no accident, is fighting back. �When I heard what was being said about me, I went totally bat****,� Baggins said, speaking from his suite at Los Angeles� legendary Chateau Marmont hotel. �Anyone who believes that load of crap about me can stick it where the sun don�t shine!� While Baggins admits that he may have raised some eyebrows with his hard-partying ways, he insists that his nights of drinking, brawling, and running through the streets of Santa Monica naked shouting, �Go to hell! Go to hell! You ***holes can all go to hell!� are long behind him. But one Hollywood insider said that Baggins might have worn out his welcome in the film community with his boorish antics, including getting �polluted� and mooning members of the Hollywood Foreign Press at a post-Golden Globes party. �Personally, I know dozens of Academy voters who don�t want to see that creepy little bastard win,� the insider said. And while competing studios deny spreading the anti-Frodo rumors, Baggins believes that the culprit is someone whose film stands to gain if �Lord of the Rings� is discredited. �I sense Sissy Spacek�s hand in all this,� Baggins said. �That ***** can kiss my hairy ***!�

Zellweger, Law, Kidman enlist in 'Cold' campaign Thu Mar 21, 1:38 AM ET By Zorianna Kit and Chris Gardner LOS ANGELES (The Hollywood Reporter) --- They may be battling it out in the best actress Oscar race, but Nicole Kidman and Renee Zellweger are banding together along with Jude Law for starring roles in Anthony Minghella's Civil War saga "Cold Mountain." The trio are in negotiations to star in the highly anticipated project based on Charles Frazier's best-selling debut novel. If deals can be reached for the actors, the project will see Law star as Inman, a wounded soldier struggling to make it home following the war in order to reunite with his pre-war sweetheart Ada (Kidman). "Mountain" tracks his long journey home, while Ada battles to stay afloat on the family farm in the rural South with her sister Ruby (Zellweger) following the death of their missionary father. Zellweger already had been in talks for the project back when Tom Cruise was negotiating to topline as Inman (HR 9/4). But Cruise's deal was never reached, and he fell out of the project earlier this year. Mirage's Sydney Pollack and Bill Horberg are producing "Mountain" alongside Albert Berger and Ron Yerxa of Bona Fide Prods. Minghella adapted Frazier's novel for the screen. Kidman, Law and Zellweger are repped by CAA. Kidman, additionally repped by Handprint Entertainment, recently wrapped shooting Lars von Trier's latest film, "Dogville," in Sweden. She is nominated for a best actress Oscar for "Moulin Rouge" in the same category as Zellweger, who is nominated for "Bridget Jones's Diary." Zellweger, additionally repped by John Carrabino at Catch 23 Management, recently wrapped shooting the feature film version of the Broadway musical "Chicago." Law next stars in the summer release "The Road to Perdition" for DreamWorks Pictures and director Sam Mendes.

Julia, dear, if anyone deserves to be getting his second Oscar in as many years, it's Crowe. Crowe does deserve it but it's interesting to note that both the LA critics and AFI(in LA), gave it to Denzel, hmm. And, Julia dear, you didn't exactly deserve your's last year. Thanks, Cheryl, Rebecca (point well taken ;-), and Mari for posting those articles.

Jude Law will be an excellent Inman...if he can turn on a NC accent. I didn't think Ruby was Ada's sister..but maybe in the screenplay.... Hey they changed Charlotte Gray big time....

And now for something completely different: A website has launched its own worst film awards, and has named them after Keanu Reeves. The Keanus are described as the "alernate Oscars." Fans can vote for the Celebrity Most Likely To Be Crushed By The Weight of Own Ego or Actor Most Apt To Take Mantle From Keanu Reeves. According to www.alternet.org, the awards were named after Reeves in honour of the "Actor most able to make bad movie after bad movie, with little real acting skill in evidence, and yet emerge unscathed and well-loved." ~~~~~~~ After seeing Black Hawk Down, where he was the only actor whose name went before the title, I'd vote for Josh Hartnett.

LOL, Rebecca. v. funny. (There's that Chateau Marmont again) ;-D (Evelyn) Whatever happened to the TV series RE was supposed to be in? I don't think it is for US television, but for UK and Italian TV. Ever since I heard that Julia Roberts comment many weeks ago, I suspected a campaign to "reward" Denzel for his body of work when he surely wouldn't deserve it for Training Days. I hate when this happens, when two other actors performances are more deserving in their own right. And how does it look in the record books when it says: Denzel Washington for Training Days. People will view TD and wonder why? (Evelyn) Jude Law will be an excellent Inman...if he can turn on a NC accent. I didn't think Ruby was Ada's sister..but maybe in the screenplay.... More info from Variety: The Miramax picture is still moving toward a July start date with shooting in Europe and the American South. Kidman, currently Oscar-nominated for her role in "Moulin Rouge" would take the role of Ada, the minister's daughter Inman left behind when he enlisted as a Confederate soldier. Zellweger, also Oscar-nominated for her performance in Miramax's "Bridget Jones Diary" could play Ruby, the drifter who becomes Ada's companion and hard-scrabble partner in eking a living the soil. Miramax declined comment. ~~~~~ Lots of films on RZ's plate. What about that rom-com with Ewan?

Lots of films on RZ's plate. What about that rom-com with Ewan? I think they're working on that now. That would explain Renee's absense in the pre-Oscar hoopla.

(Variety) Ruby, the drifter who becomes Ada's companion and hard-scrabble partner in eking a living the soil. This is consistent with the book (you're right, Ev). Making Ruby Ada's sister would really muck up the story, since Ruby teaches Ada how to survive. (Evelyn) Jude Law will be an excellent Inman We-ell, he wouldn't be my first choice, but he's better than TC. I still think the quintessential Inman is Russell Crowe.

I'm trying my hand at Academy Award predictions for the first time: Best Actor: will win - Russell Crowe; my choice - Denzel or Tom W.(but alas they won't) Best Actress: will win - Nicole Kidman; my choice - Renee (she learned a new culture, new accent, and new way of life with such accuracy) Best Supporting Actor: will win - Ian McKellen (best part of LOTR, for me); my choice - Jim Broadbent Best Supporting Actress: will win - Jennifer Connelly; my choice - Jennifer Connelly Best Director: will win - Ron Howard; my choice - Ron Howard (he deserves it)* Best Picture: will win - A Beautiful Mind; my choice - A Beautiful Mind (it's a sweep) *I saw a segment on American Movie Classics with Ron Howard talking about the making of ABM. He said that all the math in the movie on the glass windows was actual and accurate math and that as John Nash gets more and more unwell the math you see him doing on paper or otherwise reflects that state of mind. So he was very accurate there. There's probably only so many facts one could include in a movie like that before it starts to get jumbled and drag on too much.

I'm going to force myself to see LOTR tomorrow and then will do my picks. (Being on Tylenol with codeine is not going to help...) :-(

Evelyn) Jude Law will be an excellent Inman (Eileen)We-ell, he wouldn't be my first choice, but he's better than TC. I still think the quintessential Inman is Russell Crowe. Oh I agree about RC....he*is* Inman. But JL would be mucho better than TC or anyone else they floated by.Can't see RZ as Ruby...she was fat, dowdy and dirty.Also older than Ada. Jennifer would make a great Ada... alas doesn't have the wattage:-((

And JE can do a natural North Carolina accent! Or should I say...authentic ;-)

Jennifer was the first person I thought of for Ada. She'd have been perfect. But you're right, Ev, Minghella has gone for names.

Just for you, Rebecca ;-D Saw LOTR and this movie screams: I am NOT an Oscar-winning Best Picture!!!! During the opening sequence, all I could do was imagine the Academy voters staring glassy-eyed at the battle, utterly confused over the exposition, and thinking "this movie is for my 14-year-old son/grandson. ;-D IMO, it was nothing more than an Indiana Jones meets Star Wars with the advanced technology of today. If Sir Ian gets the Oscar, it's a total joke. Now back to our regularly scheduled programming....

Whoa, Karen, harsh... But I guess as I think of it more and more, I can understand where you're coming from. Most people think of the LOTR series as a series for boys. Just like the Little House is for girls...

It wasn't meant to be harsh just realistic. It wasn't the type of film that gets the AA honors. It wasn't *human* enough.

(Karen), It wasn't meant to be harsh just realistic. It wasn't the type of film that gets the AA honors. It wasn't *human* enough. So SIL was more *human* than Saving Private Ryan? You don't go for Tolkien, Karen, and might I say you were prejudiced? ;-) It's time to take a flight of fancy. LOTR is an outstanding movie and I very much look forward to the other parts.

(Moon) So SIL was more *human* than Saving Private Ryan? It's not a matter of degrees. LOTR didn't have anything to relate to on a human level. It's not that I don't "go" for Tolkien (as I've never read him), I enjoyed the film for the most part. But IMO it wasn't any different from anyother big boxoffice action, special effects or creature movie. Sorry. It's time to take a flight of fancy. I agree but for that, I'll put in my SIL DVD. ;-D

(Karen), I enjoyed the film for the most part. But IMO it wasn't any different from anyother big boxoffice action, special effects or creature movie. Sorry. As I take my boys to see quite a few of them, please let me reasure you that it is different. LOTR didn't have anything to relate to on a human level. We disagree again.

Well Karen, I have to agree with Moon, I think you were prepared not to like it from the beginning so it wouldn't matter if you seen it or not. It is probably the only fantasy film in the last decade with a human side. The characters draw you into their world and Ian McKellan was brillant, no doubt about it. I too wasn't prepared to like and waited months to see it - but I can with an open mind and was captivated. If you had read the book you would see what a feat it was to turn this into a film.

Actually, I never go into a film intending to dislike it, and I've only walked out one film in my entire life. I didn't intend for this to be a debate over the merits of the film. I was merely pointing out that I didn't think it would appeal to AA voters. As we've said before the Oscars reward certain types of films. This wasn't the type. BTW, I didn't say I didn't like it or hate it.

I am reposting Evelyn's from above because she didn't close her link and I hate when the whole place goes to tiny type and I don't know what tag she used because the fix didn't work. ;-D Evelyn's posting: (Rebecca) If you had read the book you would see what a feat it was to turn this into a film. Ah , but films have to stand on their own. One should not have to read the book beforehand to enjoy, understand, or admire the adaptation feat. I did not like it either...booorrrring...;-)

It doesn't amaze me that A Beautiful Mind is the frontrunner. I expect it. It's the perfect date movie, safe, non-offensive trying to be serious. I have no problems with the producers skimming over bits of John Nash's life - it's done all the time. It was just the way the film actually ended up. Schizophrenia is so much more than what was portrayed in the film. My sister suffers from it. It is a dark, severely difficult illness - and it certainly doesn't just appear - it has to come from very severe childhood trauma. Curing schizophrenia is also v. difficult - it is a terrifying, haunting journey into one's broken psyche. It clearly won't take some drugs, and a faithful martyr wife and a so-called "beautiful mind" to cure it. That's why I think ABM is very lightweight and a lot of hogwash. We never really know WHY John Nash got his schizophrenia, WHY he got those three personalities as his "alter-egos" and HOW he really got cured. Additionally, we never really get an insight to his genius and why his so-called mathematical theory was so significant. Ron Howard just skims over these issues, and expects us to believe schizophrenia is light and happy and easy. He did schizophrenics a disservice. Same with Akiva Goldsman. Both shied away from making an emotional, heartfelt and dark movie to be Hollywood-happy, and "Oscar-worthy." Ick, bland,bland,bland. As much as I loved LOTR I would be happy with any of the films winning, except A Beautiful Mind. Anything but cause it really is the weakest of all the films. Not the worse of the year, but it is certainly not worthy of a nomination either. It will probably win, but we always know that it usually isn't the best pic that takes home the award. I went out with two friends who are actresses last night who pay no attention to the Oscars whatsoever because it is total bull (think of all the people who win and it usually turns out to be their peak and they can only go down) - maybe I should do so myself as it's the same crap every year.

If one pays any attention to the Oscars, then one has to respect their criteria for what it is. You can't make them what you want them to be. In any event, Nightline's show last night was about ABM and schizophrenia, focusing on John Nash. I was listening from another room. They had another case of a guy here in Chicago and how he lives his life. Of the other omissions in Nash's life, I didn't feel cheated in any way not knowing how it began, plus I felt that his contributions to math were adequately explained insofar as their later relevancy to economics. Let's face, films are films. They are not intended to be documentaries. And for that matter, I felt Iris was hogwash.

Three National Mental Health organizations endorsed ABM.I doubt they would have done so had it been offensive. Sorry about my tags, boss. You never have to bother to repost any of my messages....LOL.I'm not worth it.

(Rebecca), A Beautiful Mind is the weakest of all the films. I agree! I was bored at parts. Karen), I felt Iris was hogwash. I agree. I hope they give the Oscar to LOTR but I have a feeling it will go to MR. We will see tomorrow night. The IFC Awards are tonight. Memento should do it.

Evelyn - it isn't offensive. They are probably glad that it brought some attention to the illness. It's just not a complete movie, glossed over. I felt cheated. I agree with you all about Iris. I felt like the characters were never developed enough for me to really care about them. It was like an ad for alzheimers.

Am I the only one who wishes Harry Potter would have gotten more recognition? At least a nomination? Children of the World unite!!

LOL Evelyn, for what it's worth my sons love the Harry Potter books but were not thrilled with the movie. They did, however, love LOTR, books and movie. I just buy the tickets, I don't go in to watch! :))))

Am I the only one who wishes Harry Potter would have gotten more recognition? At least a nomination? Children of the World unite!! YES!!! I thought Harry Potter was brilliant, the books are fantastic and I cannot wait for the next installment!!! (and it better come out soon); I literally read and re-read them! Last night on Biography they did it on JK Rowling, and she even showed the last chapter of the very last book. But of course it was in a folder... and I think she keeps in in a safe deposit box:)

Indie Spirit Awards The low-budget amnesia thriller "Memento" won the top prize on Saturday at the Independent Spirit Awards -- the independent movie world's equivalent of the Academy Awards -- while Oscar-nominated family tragedy "In The Bedroom" nabbed two key acting awards. "Memento" was named best feature and also snagged the direction and screenplay prizes for English native Christopher Nolan, as well as the supporting female nod for Canadian actress Carrie-Anne Moss. [Guy Pearce wasn't even nominated.] The other big winner was "In The Bedroom," which was named best first feature. English actor Tom Wilkinson and Sissy Spacek won the lead acting prizes for their roles as anguished parents. Both will vie for Academy Awards on Sunday and the film is also a dark-horse contender for best picture, but there is traditionally little crossover between the two events. The black comedy "Ghost World" won two prizes: first screenplay for Daniel Clowes and director Terry Zwigoff, and supporting male for Steve Buscemi. The quirky French romantic comedy "Amelie," which is competing for five Academy Awards, won the best foreign film prize. The Spirit Awards honor films based on such criteria as original, provocative subject matter, budget and the degree of independent financing. The event is organized by the West Coast branch of the Independent Feature Project (IFP/West), a nonprofit support group for filmmakers working outside the Hollywood studio system. Winners are determined by the IFP's 9,000 members nationwide. ********** Razzies Throw out the envelope, please. Tom Green is Tinseltown's top turkey. Comedian Green and his big screen debut "Freddy Got Fingered" were panned as the worst of the merely bad at the 22nd Annual Razzie Awards, given to Hollywood's most dubious achievements on the eve of its biggest night. Green, who starred in "Freddy" as a thirtyish, basement-dwelling slacker who dreams of Hollywood fame, was picked as worst actor, co-credited for the worst script and as half of the worst screen couple for his various on-screen encounters with animals.... In all, "Freddy" took five gold-spray-painted Razzie Awards, first launched in 1980 as a "derby of dishonor" and a parody of "that other award show," the Academy awards, which takes place on Sunday night in Hollywood. Mariah Carey was named worst actress for the box-office disaster "Glitter," taking 60 percent of the votes cast by Golden Raspberry Award Foundation members, and beating back a challenge from a field that included Penelope Cruz ("Blow"), Angelina Jolie ("Lara Croft: Tomb Raider"), Jennifer Lopez ("Angel Eyes") and Charlize Theron ("Sweet November").

As the time draws near, I suppose I should give my Oscar pics (have definitely been overthinking this one!) ;-D Best Picture: ABM (will and should) Best Director: Howard (will and should) Best Actor: Crowe (will and should) -- although am braced for a Denzel body of work award, except that a cop film isn't usually the vehicle. Best Actress: Halle Berry (should) has the momentum as well as the youth and bosom apparently important to this category of late. RZ (should) although second runner-up would be Sissy. Best Supporting Actor: Broadbent (will) will upset because he had two Oscar roles and his in Iris was more of a lead as well; Kingsley (should) --but it would appear not enough voters have seen this film. Best Supporting Actress: Connelly (will), Tomei (should) -- as hers was a supporting role and Connelly's was a lead Adapted Screenplay: ABM (will and should) Original Screenplay: Memento (will and should) -- they need to reward this film for something and the writing category is often used for that purpose (see Cameron Crowe) Foreign Language Film: Amelie (will); No Man's Land (should) --however due to the voting requirements in this category (must have seen all the obscure ones nominated), it could be an obscure one as only the hardcore foreign film enthusiasts will be able to cast a ballot.

I agree with the above, except for best supporting actor, I think James Broadbent should win the Oscar, but I think Ian McKellan will win. He's been around for a long time, he's a Brit, also, and it doesn't hurt that he's a knight. I noticed that you didn't put down who will win for Best Actress as opposed to should, Did you mean that Halle Berry will win vs. Renee should, or do you think this is too close to call? You know, I was reading on MSNBCnews.com that not only should the winners be announced but also the first and second runners-up, along with the percentage of the votes they got. Sounds good to me!

[Guy Pearce wasn't even nominated.] I watched the IFC awards last night. As I predicted Memento did sweep. I am upset about GP as his performance was outstanding in this. Everyone from the Memento winners made sure to mention something about GPs performance. He did not show up. I hope some of those films get around. I've only seen the previews in the theatre for Edwina and the Angry Inch and it looked like a hoot. It will be fun to see who gets closest to the Oscar wins. Are you keeping a list, Karen? I might just ring you tonight during the show, Karen, so don't keep your PC on. :-D

If you want to check out "Entertainment Weekly's" Oscar odds, check this link: http://www.ew.com/ew/article/commentary/0,6115,214932~1~0~seewhoewpicks,00.html

Happy Oscars everyone! I have a feeling Karen will be happy woman come tonight! ;-) Off to an Oscar party with a bunch of stage actor/friends here in Toronto, most of them haven't seen any of the nominations so should be interesting as the only pic I haven't seen is Ali. But I've got my jello shooters ready for whenever Joan Rivers says 'sweetie', 'darling' or 'face-lift'. Have fun!

(kat) I noticed that you didn't put down who will win for Best Actress as opposed to should, Did you mean that Halle Berry will win vs. Renee should, or do you think this is too close to call? Sorry, typo. Halle Berry will; RZ should but would be happy if Sissy gets it as the reasons for giving it to Halle are all wrong IMO. I too am in a muddle over who *will* in best supporting actor category. Sir Ian's really been playing the game on this one, millions of TV appearances, even hosting SNL, which will likely get him the win. I really didn't consider his performance all that special in LOTR, whereas both of Broadbent's (plus his Topsy Turvy from last year) were more challenging. That being said, it still belongs to Sir Ben. He created a character that will go down in film annals as being right up there with Hannibal Lechter. It was so different from all his other award nominated/winning roles, but they may feel he has already won in the past. Who knows? (Moon) I've only seen the previews in the theatre for Edwina and the Angry Inch and it looked like a hoot. Hedwig played last summer.

Join me in real time, now, for Oscar commentary. movie conference topic 12.

Is everyone still sleeping? Historic and long Oscar night, wasn't it? Renee, in my opinion, was genuinely happy for Halle. Did anyone notice Lisa Blount (Jenny in Femme Fatale) on stage accepting an Oscar with her husband for best Short Film (live action) - "the accountant." She looks a little different (darker and longer hair), but she sounds the same ;-). Couldn't help mentioning a CF connection... Did Renee present? I missed the begining of the show. I saw Hugh presenting with Sandra B. for best score. Loved Whoppi's joke afterwards that she was glad to see Hugh "scoring" again :-).

Absolute highlight of the evening for me was Woody Allen's appearance. It brought back memories of when I was a kid and saw him doing his standup routine on TV. (How anyone can mention MB in the same breath as this guy I'll never know.) Though v. long, I thought the show was very good. Impressive beginning by Tom Cruise and the short film by Errol Morris (a hoot), Whoopi was v.g. as well as the other filmed segments. Dress: fairly awful across the board. Loved Jules Asner's postshow dress (orange, hot pink and white), Julia Roberts' and Reese Witherspoons. Jennifer C looked like death warmed over, Gwynnie's sheer top looked like an undershirt and made her look ridiculous (hair was nice though). Didn't like most of the dresses. Am going to have to check the photos/shows to see the other dresses, as you couldn't see them during the preshow. It appeared to be so crowded in their new quarters that the camera couldn't pull back and all we saw was from the bustline up. Hair: People get paid to produce those styles? And did you notice no one got "played" off? If the BBC hadn't acted in such a 'bush-league' manner, Russell would've had his second.

Renee looked real good, even though she didn't bring home the Oscar. I think she did present something. I think it was the longest Oscar night ever but it moved along at a fast pace, it didn't seem that long till I looked at the clock after I went to bed and it was after midnight and the "View" special on the Oscars was coming on. It was surprising Amelie didn't take the foreign film, what with all the buzz.

(Karen)And did you notice no one got "played" off? If the BBC hadn't acted in such a 'bush-league' manner, Russell would've had his second. Did you hear Julia's comment? She said that she was glad Bill Conti wasn't there (conducting). He had tried to 'play her off' last year during her acceptance speech, and she wouldn't let him.

closed

No, Renee didn't present anything. Second highlight of the evening was No Man's Land winning best foreign language film. I literally screamed in delight (and had marked that on my home ballot as the winner; chickened out here and went with popular opinion, which was wrong). I don't think it was a matter of Bill Conti vs. John Williams but up to the show's director and all the previous controversy.

On GMA today In Style mag awarded Gwynnie the worst dress of the evening. Lots nof OKs. No standouts. Alathough Renee was mentionsed. (Karen)If the BBC hadn't acted in such a 'bush-league' manner, Russell would've had his second. Hear, hear. Who saw Training Days? "Body of work" gets an honorary IMO Liked all the speeches. Sidney Poitier 's was the best, but Robert Redford and Tom Cruise were close seconds. Great show. The mood of the country is not for extravaganzas; I hope they never go back to them.

The group of four got played off, but it was pretty subtle and they did a fast cut off.

I thought it was a great show, although I have to admit not to really watching half of it being distracted at a party. I had a feeling about Halle and Denzel both picking up awards so I changed my vote before we put in for the pool. Good thing cause I picked up $100. Once I saw the Sidney Poitier tribute I *knew* that both would pick up their awards. A lot of people are calling it political - for Denzel it is at least cause Training Day was not his best performance. I think NK wasn't the best dressed, which is surprising.

The fashion mavens mainly focus on the name names. From a brief look at some of the Reuters/AP photos, there were some very nice gowns. Stephen C talked about some of the best: Halle, Nicole, Renee, Julia, and Reese. Said Kate Winslet was "most improved." Said Jennifer C's made her look like a Band-Aid and Gwynnie was "off." Apparently, Jodi Foster was impressive, so will have to take a look. On my thumbs up list, I forgot Sandra Bullock (dress and hair) and Marisa Tomei (although don't know what was going on around her neck) For those who posted their picks, Mari and I tied with 6. On my home ballot, I only made one change for foreign film, going with the one I'd been pulling for since October (No Man's Land). Not too shabby, with 15 out of 20 as I don't vote in the documentary and short film categories. Bombed out on music, but then again Randy Newman's was a pity @#$% by his own admission. ;-D

Helen Hunt has thinned down and probably had plastic surgery to make her look much better facially, more chiseled. My picture of Gwenie in the movies topic should carry a warning label.

You call it the Academy Awards. I call it the 'Settle Old Gripes' Awards. Sheesh! I could just see Pearson sitting in the back with a ledger. 1. No black woman for best actress since the '30's--check. 2. No black man for best actor since Sidney--check. And so on. By the end *yawn* I wasn't surprised to see Opie and ABM take it, though I have to admit I thought RC's performance was THE best thing about the film and he didn't win. (Karen) Gwynnie's sheer top looked like an undershirt and made her look ridiculous (hair was nice though) (Evelyn) On GMA today In Style mag awarded Gwynnie the worst dress of the evening. Agreed! The bottom half was fine, but the top--terribly non-flattering. Made her boobs look like two bisected tennis balls. And her make-up! Spooky. *tsk* Is there an unwritten rule that says past winners need to come back looking like this (remember Helen Hunt and Hilary Swank)? I liked Halle's dress but thought the train was a little much. Think someone was stepping on it when she was on her way up to the podium. She stopped short and I thought I saw it pulling. Didn't anyone learn about trains from Cher's problem (walking on stage to present and train scoots forward between her legs. She nearly tripped.)? (Karen) I don't think it was a matter of Bill Conti vs. John Williams but up to the show's director and all the previous controversy. Absolutely, esp. after RC's BAFTA rant. It was obvious during Halle's discourse (hey, she forgot to thank me!), when she said 'don't you dare start to play, it's taken 76 years, blahblah...' What they did do was jump in and start the music during pauses in some of the 'lesser' acceptance speeches. You could tell the winners weren't finished but off we went to commercial. Question: what happened to Will Smith? I thought he was there in the beginning. The camera sured panned to Jada often enough. But after the best actor individual nom announcements, they showed a file photo of Will. Was he there? If so, where'd he go? I was expecting him to run up on stage with Denzel like he said he was going to do. IMO the best presenters were Reese and Ryan. Great script, great delivery. I enjoyed Woody (guess the Knicks weren't playing at home last night) but he was about 15-30 seconds too long. Thought Spacey handled the moment of silence v. well also. IMO Whoopi was...well, Whoopi. She plays these things the same way every time she hosts (so does Billy Crystal, I suppose)--comes in dressed like a character from one of the best pic noms, tells her Bruce Villanch jokes with the tag line 'you'll get it later', etc. IMO her best moment followed a scream from the balcony, when she deadpanned 'Just wipe up after yourself'. LOL!

(Karen) Stephen C talked about some of the best: Halle, Nicole, Renee, Julia, and Reese. Julia was my fave. Perfect dress for her. Interesting cutouts. Stunning. Said Kate Winslet was "most improved." Fancy that. On Friday, I read Steve's pre-Oscar suggestions for some stars. He recommended Kate go for something simple and bold in color, like red. Hmmm. Said Jennifer C's made her look like a Band-Aid Ooh, wasn't it dreadful? She had much better outfits for the other awards, but at least her hair was better last night than it was for the BAFTAs (that skanky pony tail had to go). Apparently, Jodi Foster was impressive, so will have to take a look. She looked great. Motherhood agrees with her. Speaking of looking great, how 'bout that John Travolta? He looks terrific (unlike Sharon Stone--her dress was nice, esp. the back but her super blonde hair washes her out). (Karen) Marisa Tomei (although don't know what was going on around her neck) Reminded me of Ms. Binoche and those pearls from last year. IMO Marisa looked like a different person after she lost. She went from smiling in every shot to looking unhappy and bored.

Oops. Frigged up the tags.

(Karen), Dress: fairly awful across the board. Loved Jules Asner's postshow dress (orange, hot pink and white), Julia Roberts' and Reese Witherspoons. I agree! Plus, Marcia Harden and Marisa Tomei's dress without that tangle on top. I thought Sharon Stone looked good and I liked Kate W's red dress. Gwynnie was a horror only topped by Steisand in that horrid dress! Jodie Foster's dress was nice but short, it should have been long. Halle carried her dress of very well and I also liked Nicole's dress, maybe not the color. The fashion trend of the evening was the soft makeup look, creamy pastel lips, no blush, and very dewy looking skin. (Usually my daytime look) ;-D I too enjoyed Woody very much. Hugh should have come out with RZ instead of Sandra B but I guess Sandra has more clout. Overall, it was a very conservative, toned down show (except for Sir Ian's and his lover who had his hand on his leg the whole night!). The men should stop wearing the ties, it is the occasion for Black tie. (Eileen), I call it the 'Settle Old Gripes' Awards. Sheesh! I agree! Russell looked disappointed to me. He must have been thinking about that BAFTA night because it did play against him.

I'm not sure how anyone could claim that ABM and LOTR wound up EQUALS for the night. Sheesh! LOTR won for original score, cinematography, makeup and visual effects. Sorry, but in my book individually each of the 4 that ABM won (picture, director, screenplay and supporting actress) outweighs any of LOTR's. It's quality, not quantity. And MR won in precisely the categories it should (art direction and costume) as did Black Hawk Down (film editing and sound).

Saw a nice little interview with RZ from the Aussie guy on the red carpet. He also nabbed DW, who spoke to him for a good while and of course RC who chatted away and pulled out 7 or 8 good luck charms he had with him. IMO...RC needed a hair stylist. His date looked spectac. We missed any charming little pre-award ditties from HG, but I thought his date had one of the best dresses! and I missed the Whoopie joke. (Did see the bare feet though.) They start late here, 7:30 or 8, so I packed it in about 11. Last thoughts, loved Woody! Thought his bit was great. And, for some reason I really enjoyed all those funny comments about fav movies in the prepared sequence. Was that just me?

Fave remark: "Monster's Inc"...Oh I thought that was a documentary on the Weinsteins." who said that. (Moon) I thought Sharon Stone looked good and I liked Kate W's red dress. Ditto. Sam was holding her hand...didn't do any good.

Most gorgeous award: the Kodak Theater! Wow, what a beautiful new home for Oscar--a cross between Radio City and a grand opera house. Hollywood got it right. Of course the show was too long, and it always will be because so many awards are given out. But, I sort of like the populist feel that the "best documentary: short subject" type people bring to the table. Ditto to much of what's been said abiut the fashions. Moon, I completely agree about the men's ties--I don't care for that trend. Woody Allen was a wonderful surprise--I don't think he's ever shown up before. I hope filmmakers heed his call to come and film in New York--enough of this "bland, one size fits all North American city" look that we've been getting all too often. I love New York, dammit!;-) I also thought Nathan Lane was a hoot; he'd make a good host. Disappointed that Paul McCartney lost out to Randy Newman, with that crappy song. Sheesh. But Paul looked wonderful, sounded good, and I liked his song. Best presenters--Reese and Ryan, definitely. Funny material, and very droll deliveries. Good job, kids. But what was up with Ryan's pseudo-European accent on the red carpet? I guess he comes from that Black Forest section of Delaware.;-) Prettiest: Renee Z., Sandra Bullock, and Jodie Foster. Most elegant: Helen Mirren. Fabulous, ladies, just gorgeous! Huge Gnat and Sandra came together; he was actually pretty funny on the red carpet, definitely getting the better of Joan R. Joan: "Are you a couple?" Huge: "Are you drunk? We'll tell if you will." *Who* is that pretty young dark haired boy that Ian McK shows up with to every awards ceremony? Not a colleague from LOTR, I take it.;-) And why is Ridley Scott dating a zygote?;-) Best acceptance speech: Julian Fellowes. I knew LOTR was in for a long, sad night when they weren't even getting the techie awards early on. No broad-based support for the film. Very happy for Opie! As for the rest, the only people I *really* wanted to see win were Renee Z. and Tom Wilkinson. I knew neither had a chance, so I don't feel strongly about any of the races. Russell blew it for himself at the BAFTAs, as I said from the get go. And does anybody but me feel it was ironic that Sidney Poitier and Halle Berry were accompanied by the whitest women I've ever seen? ;-) I think I'd better go now . . . ;-)

Fave remark: "Monster's Inc"...Oh I thought that was a documentary on the Weinsteins." who said that. Nathan Lane. He had about a half dozen funny lines, one right after the other. I enjoy him.

(Mari), And does anybody but me feel it was ironic that Sidney Poitier and Halle Berry were accompanied by the whitest women I've ever seen? ;-) You mean, his wife and her mother? *Who* is that pretty young dark haired boy that Ian McK shows up with to every awards ceremony? Not a colleague from LOTR, I take it.;-) Ian is so old and he is so young... the P word is in there somewhere. And I don't care if the boy-toy is an "adult" by age. The age difference in this case reeks of it. And to show them repeatedly when boy-toy kept his hand on Ian's upper thigh all night was disgusting. It must have been a jealous camera man. And why is Ridley Scott dating a zygote?;-) LOL! I thought it was his wife. I knew LOTR was in for a long, sad night when they weren't even getting the techie awards early on. No broad-based support for the film. Me too. :-( It did make Karen happy though, she had all those predictions down. Disappointed that Paul McCartney lost out to Randy Newman, with that crappy song. That falls under 'Settle Old Gripes' Awards'. I did like the way the music was presented, that was an improvement. Nathan Lane was funny, as were Stiller and Owen. Now can I please get a chorus of disapproval on La Sreisand's dress? I kept seeing Scarlet looking up at her green draperies in GWTW and then creating that dress. ;-)

Eileeen: what happened to Will Smith? I thought he was there in the beginning. The camera sured panned to Jada often enough. But after the best actor individual nom announcements, they showed a file photo of Will. Was he there? If so, where'd he go? I was expecting him to run up on stage with Denzel like he said he was going to do. They left cause of a family emergency, their baby daughter had a fever of 103 (that was the explanation given on Good Day L.A.).

(Lisa) RC needed a hair stylist. His date looked spectac. ??? Perhaps, dress-wise, but I've never seen her look anything but catatonic. Is she paid to accompany him to these events? And, for some reason I really enjoyed all those funny comments about fav movies in the prepared sequence. Was that just me? No, it was very funny and you could hear huge outbursts of laughter from the audience at certain ones. Of course, it helped to know who some of those people were. (Mari) Woody Allen was a wonderful surprise--I don't think he's ever shown up before. He's never been there before. The excuse was always that he played at Michael's on Sunday night. Huge Gnat and Sandra came together; he was actually pretty funny on the red carpet, definitely getting the better of Joan R. Yes, that was probably the only funny interchange on the carpet. Joan exceeded herself for stupidity this time around. She was absolutely clueless of what to ask most of the people and botched most everything. (Mari) Disappointed that Paul McCartney lost out to Randy Newman, with that crappy song. (Moon) That falls under 'Settle Old Gripes' Awards'. I did like the way the music was presented, that was an improvement. These things were really brought out in the pressroom questions, which E! showed. Someone asked Randy what he would've preferred winning for. Randy said he didn't care much about any of his songs, but the scores were his pride and joy like for The Natural (wonderful IMO and highlighted in John Williams presentation) and a few others.

Is she paid to accompany him to these events? Keeping in mind my gossip info extends to scanning the headlines of the rags at in checkout lines and morning radio, I'll tell you what I heard about this romance of RC's. They dated for a while some time back, she's in a band, maybe did some singing with him???, and they hitched back up again. She was interviewed last week. Getting a lot of publicity around here now, of course. I thought she looked pretty good, but maybe I was comparing her to the way I've seen her before! I gave her points for a nice tan. And the fact they were both in Armani. Randy Newman is a true talent and I was glad to hear he finally won. (Was this another body of work award?) But, being 5'1" tall, I never forgave him for that "Short People" song from way back when. :)))))

God, I love the folks at Salon.com. They've read my mind! Oscars 2002: Somebody make it stop! It's the Oscars of Defensiveness: Four-plus hours in which Hollywood tries to pretend it's not racist -- and Tom Cruise is revealed as that Scary Flaming Eye from "Lord of the Rings." - - - - - - - - - - - - By Cintra Wilson March 25, 2002 | After the reality check of Sept. 11 and its sobering aftermath, many people looked at the glitterati of Hollywood and said, "Can you explain why the f*** any of us ever thought YOU were so important?" Well, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences seems to have mulled this question over, and this year it gave us the We're Justifying Our Existence Oscars. I never questioned the Oscars before, but this year just the fact of them made me uneasy. Year round, we as a nation are already supposed to live vicariously through this rather rank stable of prefab actors, who live lives of ridiculous luxury and ease. We are exposed to their nightly hobnobbing, their sex lives, their hobbies, their alcoholism; we cannot escape. "OK, that was entertaining," I thought, after seeing many of the nominated films. There were some good, solid movies, but nothing that I saw made me change my wicked ways. There were some fine, solid performances, but exactly how much are we supposed to adore good actors? Last night, these capable but already tremendously overcelebrated, over-rewarded people had their annual Imelda Marcos shoe-orgy of gratuitous overcelebration, gilding the gilded lily made of gold, again. We watched as people already morbidly overstuffed with congratulations vomited up all previous congratulations to make room for these, the best and biggest congratulations of all. It is the gargantuan, a**-licking brainwash of the year, and We, the People With Televisions, are supposed to watch and enjoy it. The Academy sensed this attitude was lurking like a murky cloud of spiritual unease over Middle Earth, and it is my (admittedly hostile) perception that they said to themselves, "Well, the Oscars are already f***ed this year, so let's honor our Negroes! It's been a while. Call Whoopi." I used to call it the "Noble Cripple and Spade Year" -- it comes around every five years or so. When the Oscar Winner's alumni circle starts to look like the meeting table in "Judgment at Nuremberg," the Academy devotes a year to not looking like racist, Aryan-celebrity-eugenics-worshipping, cracker peckerwoods, and either gives an Oscar for the best dribbling retard performance, or jerks us off with a big, obvious, Slather the African-Americans With Trophies orgy to make up for the previous insulting, five-to-seven-year stretch when barely anybody of color was recognized at all, for anything. Look, I'm very glad when we finally honor our African-American artists. I just wish it happened a little more regularly, instead of in one big token Big Gulp: "See? We do too give them awards. Lots of them. See?" Let's stop treating our citizens of color like they are a separate people from us. If Sept. 11 showed us anything, it's that we're all Americans together, and our black friends are just as excellent at being overprivileged celebrity fuckwads as anybody else. Let's just bump up with this consciousness and be done with it. I must warn the world about Tom Cruise. I feel he is an utterly terrifying Superior Life Form, with the power to melt heads and braid spines. His eyes are as hard, shiny and brutally penetrating as diamond drill-bits. The new braces on his teeth suggest that he is erasing all that remained of his tiny imperfections, and he is now metamorphosing into Ultra Super Perfection Man 3000. I fear his intense, mind-beating politeness, his titanium imperviousness to human weakness, his barking power-laugh. "Movies make a little bit of magic touch our lives," he commanded us to acknowledge, with steely resolve and Mach-5 mega-humorlessness. People in the audience started laughing, until they realized that Tom was Not Being Funny At All. He was chosen to frankly address the post-Sept. 11 whither-the-Oscars conundrum head-on. "Should we celebrate the magic the movies bring? Now?" Tom asked, his eyes boring into the eyes of the TV multitudes and implanting rays of total domination. "Dare I say it?" He flashed a smirk with his robotically flawless teeth. "More than EVER," he hissed, laying on his most Extreme Scientological Unction. He had been commanded by the Elders to Obi-Wan-Kenobi-ize the audience into rebelieving in the importance of the obscenely superfluous Oscars. Tom Cruise is becoming the Scary Flaming Eye from "The Lord of the Rings," and I fear that nobody can stop him. The red carpet outside the theater looked a bit like the depths of Mordor. Today's actresses are so thin their shoulders look like arthritic knuckles. Jon Voight's face-lift looked like it had a Ziploc seam for easy reopening. Ryan O'Neal looks like he's spent the last couple of decades packing rich, chocolatey nougat into his neck. And J-Lo's time is up. The Anita Bryant hairdo only confirms that her primary support and advice is coming from the most snark-infested homosexuals in the showbiz style-world. J-Lo is J-L'Over. You can't have a big a** and sarcastic hair, not in that town. Whoopi's hosting unfortunately sucked real hard. She phoned in her performance, like, from a cellphone from a parking garage in Guam. Her material was just awful, which was mainly surprising because the lines written for the presenters were, for the first time ever, actually pretty clever. Whoopi seemed to be resorting to Refreshing African-American Earthiness as opposed to actual humor, which I suppose the Academy thought was fitting for these, the Oscars of Defensiveness (aka Operation Hide Behind the Darkies). Owen Wilson and Ben Stiller were funny in their shtick together, presenting the award for Best Costume Design. I do not want to love Owen Wilson but I am enslaved. He's a fuckin' badass genius. I read the "Royal Tenenbaums" script, and I have to say, it ruled so hard it made my stomach hurt from spleen and jealousy. It was better than the film. I want to be Owen Wilson, either that or eat Owen Wilson, with fava beans and a nice Chianti. He was robbed, he and Wes Anderson shoulda gotten the best original screenplay Oscar, instead of "Gosford Park." "Tenenbaums" was daringly original; "Gosford" was a highbrow formulaic retread. Boo. Halle Berry made history last night, not so much for being the first African-American woman to win an Oscar in the best actress category, but for freaking horribly, uncontrollably out and making the worst, most hysterically rambling, discomfiting and liquefied acceptance speech in Oscar's 74-year history, and I thought Julia Roberts was going to hold that title for a long time. I know it was a big deal for Halle, who claimed her award for All Black Women Everywhere Ever, but her acceptance tantrum had such an alarming cringe factor, I had to leave the room. When they tried to pry her off the stage, she made that screeching Bilbo Baggins monster addiction-face when he Wants the Ring. It was a heavy, strange, grand-mal meltdown. America squirmed. Even though I felt like it was a self-conscious gesture on the part of the Academy ("We'll top off the Overdue Apotheosis of Sidney Poitier by throwing Denzel the Best Actor award we didn't give him when we totally ignored 'Malcolm X,' eh? Whaddaya say?"), still, I am always glad to see Denzel accepting awards. What's not to love about Denzel? Not much: The man could not peel Julia Roberts off of himself, backstage. She was practically climbing into his tux. His wife better kick Julia's skinny, home-wreckin' heinie. The drafting of Cirque du Soleil as halftime entertainment was a good call. The refined lowbrow stunts of the Cirque healed a lot of the trauma we are still feeling from Debbie Allen's interpretive dance-pain fiasco. Actually, the Cirque was the best thing the Oscars has done in years. The only problem was, those bungee-trapeze Frenchies injected LIFE into the Kodak Theater, which brilliantly exposed the fact that, despite the presence of all the most slobbered-over luminati living, there was little or no vibrancy anywhere in the building before or after. There were no surprises in the best supporting actress category; Jennifer Connelly proved once again that that statuette always goes to the new babe. It must have to do with Hollywood's need to manufacture a new face to do magazine covers or endorse Japanese soap or something. Something smells collusion-esque and Sony-riffic to me, about the supporting actress ruse -- it's just so predictable. Connelly's speech was cute, the way she read it with her face lowered the whole time, reading off a bunch of papers. It was evocative of a shy fourth-grader doing an oral presentation on the solar system. Maybe she was ashamed because she sold her soul. I was glad Randy Newman finally got the award for best song; with his 16 nominations and zero wins, he was the Susan Lucci of the Oscars. But he had to win: Enya is the music I imagine when I am standing in a meadow in a white dress, closing my eyes and rapturously rubbing soft, quilted, two-ply toilet tissue against my cheeks. Sting, that perfectly unblemished and sincerely perfectly superior and theologically self-actualized �bermensch, is essentially becoming the musical Tom Cruise. And Diane Warren is the SWORN ENEMY OF ALL MUSIC. Little Ronnie Howard took best director and best film for "A Beautiful Mind." Sigh. Ron Howard is a completely adequate and, I feel, aggressively nongenius director. His choices are deeply, unapologetically pedestrian. He possesses lots of clunky homegrown skill and absolutely no lightning bolts of wild inspiration, which is why that script was a brilliant choice for him; John Nash (and, by extension, Russell Crowe) makes up for all the primal soul-fire Ron Howard, kindly proto-honky, utterly lacks. "A Beautiful Mind" was a Good Film. Not a brilliant film. If Peter Jackson had directed it, it might have been a revelation. But Ronnie is nothing if not the original Company Boy. He has been tenured into the marrow of the system; he is Hollywood's dearest, most faithful mediocre son, and last night they gave him the party they've been tacitly promising him since 1978. So that was it. The Hobbits and the Africans were simultaneously lauded and robbed, and the Academy tried to hypnotize us into passive acceptance by acting earthy. They seemed to be saying: See? We're just regular folks. Yeah, they're regular all right, those famous multimillionaires who never go to the post office or the DMV or sort receipts for taxes or fly coach or pay to see movies or get older or worry about the rent or medical insurance or college tuitions. They're just like you and me, only with f***ing everything, and they don't want us around while they're having it, but we're allowed to watch them have it, once a year, on TV. So we'd better enjoy it. Or they'll sic Tom Cruise on us again, and, God, we don't want that.

Has salon.com ever liked anything ?

Thanks, Rebecca. That was refreshingly funny and dare I say right on? Sting, that perfectly unblemished and sincerely perfectly superior and theologically self-actualized �bermensch, is essentially becoming the musical Tom Cruise. And Diane Warren is the SWORN ENEMY OF ALL MUSIC. So true!!! I also find Tom Cruise very scary. A classic example of selling your soul to the devil.

I also find Tom Cruise very scary. A classic example of selling your soul to the devil. I agree. He reminds me of a robot! Salon was not impressed with Halle Berry's speech but I thought the first few lines at least were so genuine and sincere. She seemed to have touched a chord with her peers in the audience. I saw tears streaming down Helen Mirren's face - and RZ's too, I thought. After that - it did go on a bit. She managed to include most people including her lawyer (twice) and her former leading man Warren Beatty in her litany of thanks but she overlooked her current leading man BB-T. As I've already said here once before - I've always wondered what all the fuss was about RC - but it did seem odd that everyone around him won for the "best" except for the main character of the title. Where is the logic there? Does anyone know whether CF showed up at all - wasn't he supposed to be a regular at the Miramax's Oscar parties?

Halle got out of control when she started thanking her lawyers. Actually, she was totally out of control the whole way she just could have left out the lawyer part for more impact. Yeah, Billy Bob got left in the lurch!

Moon, I see what you mean about Streisand's dress. Not her best, but still not nearly as bad as the train wrecks that were Paltrow and Diaz. Jay Leno said Gwynnie's wasn't a dress, it was a mammogram. ;-) I did like GP's hair and make-up, though. I think Salon's take is typically cynical and iconoclastic--it's their M.O. I also noticed Halle's non-mention of Billy Bob. An oversight, I'm guessing. Too bad, since he was sadly overlooked in the noms as well. I have to mention this: is anyone as annoyed as I am by Julia Roberts's behavior? First, I thought it was inappropriate for her to be "campaigning" for Denzel in Newsweek with that "I can't absorb living in a world . . ." nonsense. Hey, Julia, I can't absorb you making $25 million per film when there are people in the world living on pennies per day. Try that on for non-absorption.:-( Then, I thought her whooping it up over DW's victory was incredibly rude to the other nominees. How were they supposed to feel?

Julia was classless. 'I love my life' - gimme a break! I too am pretty perturbed by the $5 million gowns and $1 million shoes. And the fact that the richest get all this for FREE. I feel ashamed at times to even be taking in the whole spectacle.

I agree with what both you and Mari said, Rebecca. It says it all when the lawyer gets thanks for setting up the deal and the co-star is ignored. :-( Julia Roberts has a huge ego and this win of DW just goes to inflate it even more. I can just imagine how bossy she must be on a set. And that laugh she has is just as rehearsed and fake as the one Tom Cruise has.

I quite agree with you, Mari, about the Salon article. Is there anyone here who couldn't write the same? Ooops, sorry, we do it every day on most of our topics but with more taste. I won't even bother commenting on the racist language and degrading allusions that this writer had the gall to commit to cyberspace. (Salon) I thought, after seeing many of the nominated films. There were some good, solid movies, but nothing that I saw made me change my wicked ways. I had no idea that was purpose of movies. Perhaps she should be watching the Family, Hallmark or Odessey Channel, not to mention the slew of religious ones available on cable. ;-D ...and We, the People With Televisions, are supposed to watch and enjoy it. No, you could turn it off. That feature is standard on most remote controls. Besides, some people like to watch wrestling; others do not. Gosh, the number of erroneous quips she made (Anita Bryant hairdo?) only confirms she's been watching LOTR too many times and that her brain has dissolved, plus she's mad LOTR and the Royal Tenenbaums didn't win. Boo hoo. :-( Re: Julia Roberts I hated the way she carried on and campaigned for Denzel. Now, I fear she's put herself or thinks of herself in the kingmaker role.

I won't even bother commenting on the racist language and degrading allusions that this writer had the gall to commit to cyberspace. Politically incorrect, was she? ;-) Maybe the British Press can pick up on this. ;-)

I think the writing wasn't being racist at all. She was pointing out the way Hollywood was unfairly dealing with blacks. She's been the most unracist of any articles I've seen so far - that being any press who automatically announce that history has been made on Oscar night. If people didn't make such a big deal out of it and treated them as actors alone, the race issue wouldn't be there. She's spot on with all her point and very funny. Screw political correctness.

Lighten up, Rebecca! The writer has gone so over, she really doesn't know what certain terms really connote, like the Aryan, Judgment at Nuremberg ones. Frankly, I get most appalled at the predictable camera shots during the Poitier tribute and the Halle and Denzel wins of every recognizable black actor in the audience.

Frankly, I get most appalled at the predictable camera shots Maybe there won't be a need anymore for the Black Academy Awards that were held last Sat. night? I think Hispanics and Am Indians should start to lobby for better parts immediately because they are being ignored completely.

(Minkee, re: Halle) it did go on a bit. She managed to include most people including her lawyer (twice) and her former leading man Warren Beatty in her litany of thanks but she overlooked her current leading man BB-T. That's the problem with excessively long acceptance speeches--the omissions loom much larger. IMO she was way over the top. At first I thought she was just going to stand there, staring at the audience repeating 'oh my God...oh my God' like a mantra. But once she got going with the bit about the door being kicked down...*rolling my eyes* Now, Denzel's speech--that was class. Calm, cool, collected and much more effective. (Mari) Moon, I see what you mean about Streisand's dress. Methinks Babs in packin' on the poundage. The dress was camoflauge. still not nearly as bad as the train wrecks that were Paltrow and Diaz. I didn't mind Cameron's dress but she has a terminal case of BH (bad hair). Ugh! First, I thought it was inappropriate for her to be "campaigning" for Denzel in Newsweek with that "I can't absorb living in a world . . ." nonsense. That entire article was one of the most biased I have read in my life. I usually never look at the byline, but this time I had to. I thought Jesse Jackson had written it. (Karen) Anita Bryant hairdo? Good analogy, IMO. It looked to me as though J-Lo spent some time at the local gas station's air machine. I thought she was going to start lifting off like a hot air balloon. (Salon) J-Lo is J-L'Over. You can't have a big a** and sarcastic hair, not in that town. *snort* (Karen) Frankly, I get most appalled at the predictable camera shots Wasn't that soooo obvious? :-/

Last night, Jim Broadbent's relative obscurity as an actor in the US took a beating on Letterman via his Top Ten List. Top Ten Things Best Supporting Actor Jim Broadbent Did Today: 10. Signed autographs for people who thought he was Dick Cheney 9. Asked phone company to check his line because no one's called all day 8. Appeared on "The Today Show," in crowd outside the studio window 7. Got caught speeding, told cop who he was, still got a hundred-dollar ticket 6. Tried to figure out how Ian McKellen's room key ended up in his pocket 5. Purchased baseball cap and sunglasses, so he could go out in public without getting sunburned 4. Placed Academy Award on top of garbage cans to keep out the raccoons 3. Sat around on his Academy Award-winning ass 2. Had footprints immortalized in cement after accidentally walking through a construction site 1. Spent all day "buffing his Academy Award"

LOL, thanks Karen. I think JB would get a kick out of that. Besides, *he* has the Oscar!! Wonder what 10 Things UKW is doing today;-)

At least Katie would ask YKW in if she saw him in crowd outside studio window! :-)

I've been enjoying catching up with the oscar comments. Loved Leno's comment about Gwyneth. And what about that eye makeup! It reminded me of Colin's "kohl" photos several years ago--times ten! Is anyone watching the West Wing tonight? Josh discovers that there's a website devoted to him. His assistant says that his fans are not numerous, but they make up for it in fervor. He reads their comments, responds to one, and then sets off a flurry of responses and gets pissed off when a "bossy" (his word) poster scolds him for posting incorrectly, using too many caps, etc. His assistant says that "some of these people haven't taken their medication." After he posts, CJ lets him have it. When Josh says that there is a dictatorial leader, CJ says that the website is like "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," and the dictatorial leader is Nurse Ratched. Soooo, does the focus of our drool think so ill of us?????????????????

Too many exclamation points, Kate! ;-D Signed, Nursie

Sorry, had not yet taken my medication.

I watched the Oscars yesterday and there`s one thing that I`m wondering. Why British movies aren`t in the foreign film category? Or is foreign film=non-english speaking film?

The category is titled "Best Original Foreign Language Film"

To Karen, Lora and anyone who celebrate this holiday .... To those who celebrate this holiday: And if you don't celebrate either one... Happy Spring Cleaning:-))

Very bad review for a Heather Graham film at Screendaily ("Killing Me Softly" with Joe Fiennes and by Chen Kaige). Badly cast and the two have no chemistry. A couple of remarks: Graham appears to have a problem with London settings; she was equally clogged in her emotional range in the Ripper-flick From Hell, whereas on home territory, and in lighter roles - as in Ed Burns�s Sidewalks Of New York - she can deliver. Both she and Fiennes are more suited to comedy: if Killing Me Softly sometimes tips over into absurdity (as when Graham is trying to do some serious acting while tied to the kitchen table), it is perhaps because the cast, left to their own devices by the hands-off director, find the comic potential of the hammy dialogue too much to resist. MGM has already pushed back the film�s US debut more than once, and even the presence of the bankable Joseph Fiennes and Heather Graham may not save it from a descent into DVD and pay-per-view limbo after a three or four-week run in English-speaking territories. Full review at: http://www.screendaily.com/html_files/main.htm

The category is titled "Best Original Foreign Language Film" oh, thanks (I have to learn how to read)

Thanks, Evelyn, for the Happy Passover wishes. Made 30 matzah balls yesterday and had 22 family members over for the Passover seder. Lots of preparation and cleaning up, but really nice! A Happy Easter to all who celebrate it!

An article about the Miramax pre-Oscar party and the transcript of one of the skits performed by Harvey and Jeffrey Katzenberg at salon.com: http://www.salon.com/ent/feature/2002/03/28/miramax_skit/index.html

LOL! Too funny. I bet they were rolling in the aisles. Thanks for sharing, Karen.

Wow, I didn't realize so many of those film guys were gay.What a skit! How can they get away with it...all those innuendos.Thanks Karen. I doubt BTW that ODB is a member of the "Corleone family";-) despite the fact that he's been hanging around with Harvey for a log time.And was in Miramax's two biggest hits: SIL, & TEP.

(Evelyn) How can they get away with it...all those innuendos Private party and it's not like any of them are new. They are insiders and live with it everyday. Besides, this is a spoof. Oooooh! The witch hunt begins. Who leaked the details? ;-D

You'll be surprised to hear who my pick is for this year's big Oscar winner. See movies conference topic 29.

(Evelyn) I doubt BTW that ODB is a member of the "Corleone family";-) Why? (Karen) Private party ...for 700 of their warm, close personal friends. ;-)

(Evelyn) I doubt BTW that ODB is a member of the "Corleone family";-) (Eileen)Why? Can you see ODB dressing up for a skit? Didn't he say at a Miramax party several years ago..."No bloody way"?

(KateDF)Just have to brag about my cool birthday present. B'day was yesterday Kate, happy birthday! Had to bring your 155 posting over here so you can have the proper happy birthday wish! Hope it was a fun day :-). That new tote bag is a great place to put special keepsakes close to a woman's heart ;-).

I have just read that the Queen Mother passed away this afternoon. In the US she was always admired as a warm ,caring person. And was certainly a pillar of strength during WW II in Great Britain. We extend our condolences to our friends in UK.

So sad, especially after the Princess Margaret's recent death.

My condolences to our British friends. From all I've ever read and heard, the Queen Mum was an incredible source of courage and inspiration to her husband, her family, and her country. Larry King will have a special broadcast on her life tonight at 9 on CNN.

I did a redesign of the main page at http://www.spring.net today, it may seem stark to some, I did away with all the colorful pictures in favor of a "pure text " look and feel. There's a lot more content. A new picture of Colin from Karen's Black Adder page (because I love that series, I was exposed to it while visiting in Canada last New Years). If you wouldn't mind, take a look and see if you like the new look and the new links, I'd appreciate any feedback on it you might have.

The Queen Mum died today.

Yes - I saw that Terry. I must say I was a bit confused and thought I was "lost" but "change" is not a bad thing as long as it is an improvement. The important thing is that despite the change it was clear to me where to go to find my place. The text portions certainly raise curiousity and might assist in attracting more traffic to the site. I'm backtracking to the main page in a while to read up. Karen - another witty Drool welcome page. Happy Easter to all who celebrate it! Condolences to all in the UK, Australia, Canada and NZ and the rest of the Commonwealth for the passing away of a great Lady! Whether a Monarchist or a Republican, one cannot deny that the diverse people of the Commonwealth (and the world) were served well by the Queen Mother's exemplary courage and devotion to duty throughout her long life.

�Liaisons� lives again THERE�S safe sex, and there�s the kind movie audiences crave. Thus, another version of "Dangerous Liaisons" starts shooting this week in St. Tropez, starring Catherine Deneuve, Nastassja Kinski, Leelee Sobieski and Rupert Everett. The 18th Century French novel about an older woman who challenges her amoral ex-lover to seduce a virgin inspired a Christopher Hampton play, adapted by Stephen Frears into a 1988 movie with Glenn Close, John Malkovich and Uma Thurman. A year later, Milos Forman came out with his own version, "Valmont," starring Annette Bening and Colin Firth. The idea was modernized and teenified a decade later in the underrated "Cruel Intentions" with Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon and Selma Blair. But the new one sounds more like Roger Vadim�s modern-day 1960 version with Jeanne Moreau and Jean-Louis Trintignant. After St. Tropez, director Josee Dayan, best known for her "Count of Monte Cristo" miniseries, takes the production to Scotland and Canada.

Now that I think about the casting, Deneuve would have to be in the aunt role (Madame de Rosemonde) or Cecile's mother; Kinski and Everett would be Merteuil and Valmont. It would seem likely for Leelee to be Cecile, but she could be Madame de Tourvel.

Rupert Everett.... Valmont? I thought he was supposed to be a young French nobleman.

Here's a chuckle: went to NYC this weekend. DH pointed out that Joan Rivers was sitting at the end of the aisle in "The Goat,...". Was v. proud of self, as did not muscle my way down to explain who CF was, in case she should ever come across him.

Here's someone who doesn't shy away from what they think about HB, JR or bare breasts in movies! http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=108&u=/020329/51/1bpk2.html Hope I did the link right.

A year later, Milos Forman came out with his own version, "Valmont," starring Annette Bening and Colin Firth. I thought Valmont came first. Am I right? Why would anyone want to do another DL? Is it the lack of good scripts or imagination? I hate that!

It's interesting that Berry makes such a big deal about being black. She was raised by her white mother who was beaten and abandoned by her black father. Clearly, Berry has calculated that it is more advantageous for her acting career to identify with the man who abandoned her rather than the woman who raised her. I still think she should have thanked her co-star too. She came off very full of herself. A very funny article and to the point. Thanks, Lisa!

Yes, at long last, the "glass ceiling" had been broken. Large-breasted, slightly cocoa women with idealized Caucasian features finally have a chance in Hollywood! They will, however, still be required to display their large breasts for the camera and to discuss their large breasts at some length with reporters. LOL! And by the way, Billy Bob Thorton isn't cutting it for the female audience. And that ain't no lie. Another example of sexist Hollywood. They hardly ever give us anything or body to oogle. :-( Live by the breast, die by the breast. Bet that would be good on a coat of arms, in latin. ;-D IMO, if want to be judged as just an actor, then you can't make an issue about what one's win represented for people of color. But personally, I feel she won because of her breasts and Hollywood's fixation on youth and dismissal of mature actresses.

Believe it or not, Deneuve is Merteuil and Rupie is Valmont. Maybe it's about these two crazy kids 20 years later. ;-) Big yawn. Anyway, it's for French TV.

You mean after Valmont dies in the duel? ;-D

(Karen)You mean after Valmont dies in the duel? ;-D Maybe it's about reincarnation? Tell me this is just an April Fool's joke. (Deneuve was in a movie called The April Fools, which has nothing to do with anything, but it popped into my head) I think there have been enough versions of that movie. I saw part of the teen one (Cruel Intentions) on cable recently. I gave up after deciding that Ryan is no Colin. Did find it interesting that Colin and Meg met on Valmont, and Ryan and Reese played the same roles and are now married. Karma?

(Mari) Believe it or not, Deneuve is Merteuil and Rupie is Valmont. Ooh, now that's chemistry. *rolling my eyes* (Karen) You mean after Valmont dies in the duel? ;-D Pfffffttttt! Live by the breast, die by the breast. (Karen) Bet that would be good on a coat of arms, in latin. ;-D Indeed! Furthermore, bet Hugh Hefner and Anna Nicole Smith are using it.

Maybe it's about reincarnation? Maybe the're taking a page from Dallas: Tourvel awakens one morning to the sound of running water in the bathroom. Upon investigating, she finds Valmont soaping up in the shower. The bad stuff was all a dream.;-)

she finds Valmont soaping up in the shower Hmm, with the right Valmont, that could work for me. But I think it would have to be a bathtub. Were there showers in the 18th cent? Or is time travel a part of this new version, too?

WARNING I have received an email from a zulu ntunga requesting my assistance in transfering funds fom Zambia. THIS IS A CONFIDENCE TRICK. I am posting the warning here, because the name Annas was used, and this is the only place I use that name. Take care people and don't reply with promises of sending money. Anna

I also received an e-mail. Interesting that e-mail addy was harvested here.

I got that email and emailed back that I couldn't make it to pay him the $8,000 he needed to get my millions, but I had a friend in the CIA and he would like to come and meet with him in my place. (I made this up of course). Hmmm, haven't heard back. Guess he doesn't want a personal meeting with a CIA agent, wonder why? Spammers are getting more sophisticated. They're using names they think will be familiar with to you to get your attention. I spend a couple of minutes a day just deleting spam, it's usually pretty easy to spot.

I wish there was more we could do to stop them. My 12 year old that has a restricted AOL young teen email, received and invitation to a porn site to view naked pictures of Britney S. All he had to do was click. I was livid! After a bit of research I was told there is nothing that can be done. We should be very concerned as parents. :-(

(Moon)My 12 year old that has a restricted AOL young teen email, received and invitation to a porn site to view naked pictures of Britney S. All he had to do was click. I was livid! After a bit of research I was told there is nothing that can be done. We should be very concerned as parents. :-( Moon, same thing happened to my daughter when she was nine! I called AOL, I emailed the webmaster. Now I had her on parental control of under 10! and she got this filthy e-mail. I no longer have AOL.

Some email services, like hotmail.com, will you let you only receive emails from a list of names that you provide. Of course, this is very restrictive, but it would solve the problem with Laura's 12 year old. Being a webmaster of spring.net you can imagine the junk I get, so I've been rerouting my email to hotmail just to build a list of offensive emails, since it has that feature also. Then I'll take that list and use it with some screening software I'm installing at spring.net. I sent out a little survey type email today to get suggestions on improving this site and particularly our main page, which is getting less traffic. I'm trying to get the main page to be a bit "perkier".

New stats just came out today, proving once again that drool rules, no, dominates the spring. I think 90 some of the 100 top pages are related to drool. I call this Karen's plan for total domination! Congratulations, Karen on a super job!

Oh, forgot to mention the stats url. http://www.spring.net/webtrends The Top 20 Pages Pages Views % of Total Views Visits Avg. Time Viewed 1 http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/bjd.html 20,662 3.53% 17,646 00:02:11 2 The Bucket - Spring scoops on Colin Firth http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/main.html 12,328 2.1% 11,070 00:00:42 3 Conference Center http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/read/drool/159/since/ -7/ 10,477 1.79% 8,406 00:08:07 4 Conference Center http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/browse/drool/all/ 10,960 1.87% 8,096 00:02:17 5 http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/browse/drool/all/ since/-7/ 10,895 1.86% 7,062 00:02:10 6 http://www.spring.net/ 7,529 1.28% 5,902 00:01:07 7 http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/159/ new/ 7,582 1.29% 5,197 00:07:35 8 http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/earnest.html 4,743 0.81% 4,279 00:03:30 9 http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/read/drool/159/ 5,211 0.89% 4,249 00:07:26 10 http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/news.html 4,392 0.75% 3,984 00:01:13 11 http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/bjdcast.html 3,597 0.61% 3,483 00:02:08 12 http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/read/drool/155/since/ -7/ 4,194 0.71% 3,252 00:04:23 13 http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/browse/drool/all/ new/ 5,930 1.01% 3,247 00:01:47 14 http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/browse/drool/all/ since/-10/ 4,307 0.73% 3,098 00:02:12 15 http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/bjdmusic.html 3,559 0.6% 2,964 00:03:32 16 http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/articleindex.html 3,421 0.58% 2,915 00:00:49 17 http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/p_eye1.html 2,990 0.51% 2,850 00:01:42 18 http://www.spring.net/karenr/mdbro/bjdgal.html 2,963 0.5% 2,637 00:02:15 19 http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/read/drool/159/since/ -1/ 4,876 0.83% 2,630 00:07:06 20 http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/public/read/drool/159/since/ -10/ 3,170 0.54% 2,544 00:07:44 Nineteen out of the top twenty! A near sweep!

Fan Fiction held down the number 3 spot.

The Spring's Content page just missed the top 20, coming in at 21st. http://www.spring.net/contents.htm

Hollywood's Damon, Affleck & Phoenix Debut in Youth Good Will Hunting film star Matt Damon will make his West End debut this month in Kenneth Lonergan's This Is Our Youth. He - along with Casey (brother of Ben) Affleck and Summer (sister of River and Joaquin) - are to take over from fellow Hollywood young guns Hayden Christensen, Jake Gyllenhaal and Anna Paquin in the 1980s coming-of-age play at the Garrick Theatre from 22 April to 15 June 2002.

Reminds me...saw Ben Affleck on ET earlier this week. *What* is up with his hair? Looks like he had two pieces of 2x4 boards stuck on there.

It's a BOY!!!! Liz Hurley gave birth this morning... no word on who was her labor coach...

Happy Birthday, Lora! From my house to yours. ;-)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LORA

I can do better than that...sorry

Have got birthday wishes from Lora's fave clever actor/writer/director. Happy birthday, Lora! Lookee! Did that with my eyes closed. ;-) Enjoy your day, Lora.

Happy birthday Lora!

Have a great day, Lora!!

The Producers: Parker, Broderick Expecting by Mark Armstrong Apr 5, 2002, 8:45 AM PT So this is how actors celebrate the end of a run on Broadway. Sex and the City star Sarah Jessica Parker and hubby Matthew Broderick, fresh off his mega-successful stint with The Producers, have been busy with some producing of their own: They're expecting their first child this fall, columnist Liz Smith reported Friday. Parker, 37, and Broderick, 40, will celebrate their five-year wedding anniversary in May. The big baby news will certainly put a crimp HBO's production plans for Sex and the City. The cable network announced Friday it will suspend production on the Emmy-winning series April 10 "in order for HBO to evaluate its production schedule in light of [Parker's] recently announced pregnancy." It's still not clear how many episodes of the show's fifth season have been shot. But the season premiere, originally set for June, has now been tentatively pushed back to July. There's also no word yet on whether Parker's advice-dishing alter ego, Carrie Bradshaw, will end up going through a pregnancy of her own on the series.

Thank you for all the birthday greetings! Moon, so is he coming over to wish me an up close and personal birthday wish? And do you mean he's coming from your house or his ;-)? Hope he leaves the cigar at home or with you ;-). If he's at your house send him over ASAP!!! I've always wanted to meet a man named Ernest ;-)! Evelyn, thanks for the wizard wishes. I hope he helps make all my birthday wishes come true. And he looks like Gandalf, too! Eileen, thanks but no thanks for MB's birthday wishes. Would rather have seen a pic of my fave actor/family man/short story writer/Italian villa dweller instead ;-). Thanks, Terry, for your birthday greetings. I appreciate your wishes and everything you do for Spring,too. And, Karen, I'll take 'chick' to mean that it's about my one year anniversary on drool so I'm still sort of a "Spring chicken" around here ;-). It's certainly not because of my age ;-). Thanks, everyone!

(Lora) It's certainly not because of my age ;-). Remember, it's the mileage not the years! (If I had learned to post pictures there would be a little red sports car driving across the post.) :-) Happy Birthday and many returns of the day!

Thanks, Caribou, for your happy birthday good wishes and for the little red sports car. It's fun to think of me in one for a moment or two, but the reality is more mini van :-).

Happy Birthday Lora - i hope you have a great day!

Thanks, SB! All these birthday wishes have added to the fun. I've never celebrated my birthday in cyberspace before!

Belated happy birthday, Lora. I hope you had a wonderful day.

Sorry I'm late Lora, but I hope your birthday was the best ever.

Thanks Minkee and Lucie! Saw Mamma Mia! today. It was great. There's even a part for an Englishman. But the part requires singing above rock music at times ;-).

The Colin Channel?? ;-D Miramax's Harvey Weinstein said to be eyeing cable TV April 08, 2002 NEW YORK -- Miramax's Harvey Weinstein is itching to get into the cable TV business. According to published reports, the Miramax chairman has resuscitated his 5-year-old plan to create a Miramax-branded cable channel and is reportedly talking with cabler Comcast about becoming a partner. But the channel, which would draw on Miramax's 500 film library, may face some tough going getting into cable homes in key markets such as New York City, which is controlled by AOL Time Warner's Time Warner Cable. Miramax's parent the Walt Disney Co. came to blows with AOL Time Warner two years ago over Time Warner's carriage of ABC and the Disney Channel.

Ooh, interesting possibility. Our cable is Comcast. A Miramax channel--even if it isn't all Colin all the time--beats the umpteen home shopping channels we have now.

Jessica Stevens is having trouble logging in and I'm working with her on the issues, which may be her older Netscape browser. Anyone else having trouble? (gee, if you were, you wouldn't be reading this!)

Miramax's Harvey Weinstein said to be eyeing cable TV Guess Harvey has time on his hands now that Talk Mag tanked.

I had problems about a month ago. But that had nothing to do with my computer and everything with my internet connection (I know because I couldn't get in from any computer at Uni, not my own, not at work). I have to go through the Uni firewall first and I think they prevented me from logging in. And it worked just fine at home. After a couple of days, the problem just solved itself.

Terry, I use Netscape 4.76 on purpose. It works just fine. And I do all the programming for Geo Conference with it, too. It is my browser of preference!

Happy Birthday Laura! :-)

Laura!! Have a very happy day!

Gah! Have missed Lora's birthday! :-( Oh God. I'll be sacked. Did the others send birthday wishes? ;-) Lora, wishing you a very HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY!! Laura, wishing you a very happy on-time one! Enjoy, ladies!:-)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LAURA

There's a great interview with Christopher Nolan today at Dark Horizons: http://www.darkhorizons.com/news.htm

Why do I always seem to fall for actors with strong moral values? I hate when that happens.;-) From imdb: Caviezel Refused To Get Naked With Ashley Judd Staunchly Catholic Hollywood actor Jim Caviezel refused to strip off for a sex scene with beautiful actress Ashley Judd. The 33-year-old star threatened to walk out unless director Carl Franklin shot the scene for thriller High Crimes with both parties wearing clothes. He says, "I told Carl, 'It's no problem, I don't have to do this movie. Go ahead and find someone else.' I see our culture as not respecting people too much, treating people like objects. There are times where sex is appropriate, but I've yet to see butts and breasts act themselves out of a scene!" It's not the first time Caviezel has refused to get naked for scenes with beautiful co-stars. He refused to film a love scene with sexy Jennifer Lopez in Angel Eyes because she was topless and asked rising star Dagmara Domincyzk to cover her nipples while shooting The Count Of Monte Cristo. The married star says, "My acting stems from inside, from God. And that's the only way I can act. If I violate that, then I don't think I'd be around this busin ss much longer."

There's a rave review for About A Boy & Huge on AICN, from Capone. Am too bitter and jealous to post it here, however.;-( But I think Capone needs to get a grip referring to HG in BJD as a likeable bastard.

There is an interesting article in the Dallas Morning News today about fashion and the obession with thiness. The article is by former Harper Bazaar editor, Kate Betts. She talks about RZ's weight gain resulting in her losing the cover. It's pretty long, but if you are interesting, it can be found at:

Sorry I hit reply instead of copy. I'll try again. The link is: http://www.dallasnews.com/texasliving/stories/041102dnfdfatphobia.9a7f9.html

Mari, thanks for your good wishes. And you could never be sacked ;-)! Laura, from a Lora to a Laura and an Aries to an Aries, I hope you had the happiest of birthdays! Didn't we miss brother Jonathan's birthday in between? If so, happy birthday to JF too :-).

Lora, thank you very much and a happy birthday to you too! I do believe baby brother was the 9th? Thank you to all who wished me a happy birthday. I stll can't believe #34... (remember when I was complaining about 30!!!) :)

(remember when I was complaining about 30!!!) :) Yes. :-) [as if it were yesterday]

I stll can't believe #34... (remember when I was complaining about 30!!!) :) LOL - i just had a mini panic attack during my lunch hour about turning 31 ....my birthday isnt until October!

(laura) I stll can't believe #34.. (SB) i just had a mini panic attack during my lunch hour about turning 31 ....my birthday isnt until October!

LOL - Evelyn.... now i feel all warm and fuzzy inside... ;-)

Isn't it amazing how fast time flies??? I'm 34... However, I should add that my daughter who took out cook books out from her school library (she's 11) made me a mexican pastry (buenolos), rice pilaf and chicken that I had in fridge from night before (barbecue chix already cooked); and for desert, she made (now all of this is from scratch! Chocolate Mousse....) Coming home from work, she had table set, Ella Fitzgerald on the cd, and she opened a bottle of wine (which I then informed her that this was the first and LAST time she will do that). Everything was terrible, but you know what? She put her little heart into it and we ate everything with glee (luckily, cereal came in handy for the both of us later!) I have a great daughter, eh? Nothing like coming home and seeing flour all over your child's face... she was so excited... then told me I was old.... (well someone had to knock reality into me... :))

SB, 31 is nothing! I'm so not old enough to be 34:(

That's great Laura, happy (if belated) birthday!

"...There are times where sex is appropriate, but I've yet to see butts and breasts act themselves out of a scene!" LOL! Has he seen Pamela Anderson? ;-D Interesting guy though. One you have to admire. Too bad, most up-and-coming female actresses wouldn't be able to maintain such beliefs as they're considered a commodity. Dashes all my hopes of seeing more of him. Oh well.

The Play What I Wrote will transfer to Broadway next year. The show will be directed by Kenneth Branagh, who also directed the London production. Hamish McColl and Sean Foley will star in the New York production. Despite Americans' limited knowledge of Morecambe and Wise, the show's producer, David Pugh, is confident that the comedy will be understood by Americans. The show will be tweaked to make it "slightly more universal," he said. According to the New York Times, the play will open in the spring. ~~~~~~~ This is the play that has different celebs appearing in it nightly. Wonder who will be making surprise guest appearances in NY.

confident that the comedy will be understood by Americans. The show will be tweaked to make it "slightly more universal," he said. LOL!, Too bad it's too late for DQ. I don't even see it as a rental. There is a lot happening on Broadway now. Evelyn, you will have a blast! Interesting guy though. One you have to admire. Too bad, most up-and-coming female actresses wouldn't be able to maintain such beliefs as they're considered a commodity. Dashes all my hopes of seeing more of him. Oh well. So true! I want to meet him and shake his his hand. (Too bad I can't place his face) ;-)

Jude Law's Dr. Faustus is coming to Broadway as well. Was surprised, as it seems this one got rather negative reviews in London.

Jude Law's Dr. Faustus is coming to Broadway as well. Was surprised, as it seems this one got rather negative reviews in London. Evelyn loved it and I rather take her word. Let us know when you get the dates, Mari, thanks!

I saw Dr. Faustus last month and thought whole production was terrific, especially Richard McCabe. Interesting that they are bringing it to NY. I have a hard time seeing Christopher Marlowe win over Broadway, but I could be wrong.

A belated Happy Birthday Laura.

Nice interview with our Moral Man, Jim Caviezel, in the Sunday Times. (Moon, he was the Count of Monte Cristo). http://www.sunday-times.co.uk/article/0,,187-262610,00.html

(Moon, he was the Count of Monte Cristo). Wow, thanks, Mari! To read the article we sign in as member. I don't remember my ID and don't want to sign in again. Can you post it here, Mari?

Anything for my Moon!:-) He sounds like a lovely man. Cover story: Film: Jim Caviezel Jim Caviezel wants to be in movies like the ones they made in the 1940s. Can Hollywood handle �the last good man�, asks Garth Pearce He�s a real man, not a pretty boy, who will be doing his best work from now onwards,� says the director Kevin Reynolds of his latest prot�g�. �He will be one of our biggest stars.� Coming from the man who discovered Kevin Costner in the 1980s, this prediction can�t be dismissed lightly. The actor in question, Jim Caviezel, visibly squirms at these words of praise from the director of his latest film. At 6ft 1in, Caviezel is exactly the same height as Costner, but, at 32, 15 years younger. �I am always grateful to those who have faith in me,� he says, calmly. �But if there is to be progress of any sort, I have to deliver it myself. I am relying on good scripts and offers, just like anyone else.� This is the kind of modesty that has already set Gentleman Jim apart in Hollywood. He�s the man who asked Jennifer Lopez, of all people, to cover her breasts in a love scene, because he did not want to offend his wife. His heroes are good old boys like James Stewart and Gary Cooper, who could tell a story without sex on the screen and drugs off it. �When Clark Gable swept Vivien Leigh off her feet in Gone With the Wind and took her up the stairs, everyone knew what was about to happen,� he reasons. �But we did not need to see them in bed together. She wore a look of total satisfaction in the next scene, which said it all. I want to get back to telling those sorts of stories in that kind of way. �Did we see Gregory Peck with his pants around his ankles? Did Spencer Tracy have to do a naked scene with his leading lady to help the story along? I don�t think Cary Grant took anything off other than his shirt. Humphrey Bogart did not have to show his love for Ingrid Bergman by fondling her body in Casablanca. These guys made some of the best films ever, but I cannot remember seeing a naked breast in any of them.� This, of course, is not the sort of language much understood these days at the power lunches in Beverly Hills. Caviezel is talented beefcake, and offers have come in for him with scenes that do not delicately fade at the bedroom door. But he has turned them down. He�s also far too discreet to name them. It is fitting, then, that he�s starring next as a swashbuckling hero, the Count of Monte Cristo. The classic Alexandre Dumas story, with its eventual triumph of right over wrong, was first made famous on film in 1913, when James O�Neill � father of the American playwright Eugene � was the star. The new version, with a winning performance from Caviezel, is packed with old-fashioned charm and decency. Caviezel plays a dashing young sailor, Edmond Dant�s, who wants nothing more than a peaceful life and marriage to the beautiful Merc�d�s (Dagmara Dominczyk). But he is deceived by his best friend, Fernand (Guy Pearce), who wants Merc�d�s for himself, and is unlawfully sentenced to an infamous island prison, where he is trapped for 13 years. With the help of another inmate Abb� Faria (Richard Harris), he trains in swordsmanship and finally escapes. He then discovers long-lost treasure and transforms himself into the mysterious count. Then begins his revenge on those who manipulated and enslaved him. Caviezel witnessed some manipulation of his own four years ago in the wake of his starring role in the second world war story The Thin Red Line, after winning top billing from nowhere. �My hopes were raised, but nothing came of it.� In what was the first film from the director Terrence Malick for years, he more than held his own with established Hollywood men like Sean Penn, Nick Nolte, John Cusack, George Clooney and Woody Harrelson. But the film failed to win any of its seven Oscar nominations, and Caviezel�s profile has been on slow burn ever since, rather than hot. �I expect any sort of success to take a long time, with a lot of hard work,� he says. �Acting was never in my plans, and it�s a surprise to have come this far.� Caviezel was a basketball athlete from Mount Vernon, Washington state, whose only acting skill was mimicking others in the locker room. But, after injury and a knee operation, he started to think about a change of career. �I remember in 1990, after watching Ghost, I thought: �That is the kind of thing I want to do.� I told my dad, who is a chiropractor, that I was going to take some acting lessons, and he said: �You don�t want to get involved in that crap.�� Caviezel senior sounds even more down to earth than his son. �I thought he was right,� he says, �but felt I needed to give it a chance. So I gave it a shot, and one afternoon, in Seattle, a woman stopped me in the street and said: �Young man � you are going to be a movie star.� She was an agent who had apparently seen me in an acting class. I signed up with her there and then.� But Caviezel�s move to Los Angeles was not exactly covered in glory. �I screwed up all over the place � at auditions, readings and castings. I stayed in a spare room of a friend and gave myself six months to get something.� He was saved by, of all things, Wyatt Earp, when he was given his debut in the 1994 Kevin Costner version. His name came in 23rd on the cast list. �It was a start, so I could stay in Hollywood and plan,� he says. And what were his first impressions of sin city, with its ample helpings of sex, drugs and rock�n�roll? �My Catholic faith kept me centred,� he shrugs. �I never force it on anyone, and it was never forced on me. The Lord�s Prayer, �Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil�, says it all. I am not influenced by what I am seeing around me.� So what do we have here? Mary Poppins in a jock strap? On meeting him in a London hotel suite, I admit to a fleeting shiver at the sight of a man in a dark suit and tie, with a neat haircut, reassuring smile and open handshake. But there was no evidence of a religious pamphlet in the extended hand, and beneath his apparently quiet demeanour lurks an appealing dry wit. He doesn�t take himself too seriously. He comes alive, though, when talking about his wife, Kerri, a 31-year-old former English teacher whom he met on a blind date after one of his three sisters telephoned him in Los Angeles and predicted: �Jim � I�ve just met your future wife.� He says, approvingly: �Kerri is very reserved. Her father�s side of the family is Croatian, and her mother�s side is English. My way � the American way � is to be very welcome and open, until anyone shows us differently. The English way is to learn things first and then, maybe, they open up. So this was Kerri�s way. She was thinking: �I don�t know whether I can trust this guy.�� But she trusted him enough a few months later, by accepting a marriage proposal that could have come from a film script. Caviezel had lined up an exclusive restaurant in California, which neither had been in before. �A friend of mine is a magician, and he taught me how to misdirect Kerri, to make her think that it was her idea to go there,� he recalls. �This is possible to do, believe me, but I can�t divulge how, because such tricks are supposed to remain a secret within the magic circle. � She picked the restaurant, as I had planned. We walk in and I�ve already booked the perfect table. She says: �How great, this is the only one that is free.� I then slip the waiter the engagement ring. When he brought the desserts, they had silver dishes on top. She lifted hers � and there was the ring in the middle of the plate. I asked: �Will you marry me?� She burst into tears and said: �Yes.� My only regret is that I didn�t get down on one knee.� But there can be little argument that he�s worshipped at her feet ever since. When Jennifer Lopez was about to disrobe for a love scene with him in last year�s Angel Eyes, he quietly asked her to cover up. �I told her I wanted to respect my wife � and her,� he relates. �The only bare breasts I want next to me in my life belong to Kerri.� And what was the reaction of La Lopez? �She was great about it,� he says. �She has a sense of humour and passion in everything she does. Okay, she�s a diva � but she is a funny diva. And she treats people well on a film set: the crew, the guys that do the tough jobs, the drivers, the assistants, which you don�t always get. Sometimes I am disgusted by the behaviour I see.� Anyone in particular? Since Caviezel is such an honest Jim, he cannot tell a lie. He politely asks that his remarks be off the record, then proceeds to deliver such a broadside against a Hollywood star with whom he worked, with dates and details of the tantrums, lies and deceit, that my fingers itch to type in the name right here and now. �It was,� he says, �the worst experience of my entire life.� But that life, on the whole, has been blessed. Since The Thin Red Line, he�s starred in Ang Lee�s US civil war drama, Ride With the Devil, and also in Frequency, a much underrated film in which he played the son of Dennis Quaid, who talks to him from beyond the grave, on an old radio. He�s also played a soldier in one of Ridley Scott�s rare flops, GI Jane, and had an appearance, thankfully small, in Ed, a film about a baseball-playing chimpanzee that was another attempt to propel Matt LeBlanc from Friends to film stardom. It won the 1996 Golden Raspberry Awards for worst picture. Caviezel has not suffered any raspberries since, with the highly rated Twentieth Century Fox thriller, High Crimes, co-starring Ashley Judd, coming this summer. He did have a moment of serious doubt, however, on narrowly losing out to Billy Crudup for the lead in the Stephen Frears film The Hi-Lo Country. �I remember thinking: �I could be just one of those many casualties in this business and not quite make it,� � he says. �I would have figured out something else to do to make a living. But I am just not sure what.� The Count of Monte Cristo opens on Friday www.caviezelcountry.com The man�s so big, it seems he�s a country

Thanks, Mari! He�s a real man, not a pretty boy I admit to a fleeting shiver at the sight of a man in a dark suit and tie, with a neat haircut, reassuring smile and open handshake. Yes! So much for that Armani, black tee look. He�s the man who asked Jennifer Lopez, of all people, to cover her breasts in a love scene, because he did not want to offend his wife. That is so sweet! �My Catholic faith kept me centred,� he shrugs. �I never force it on anyone, and it was never forced on me. The Lord�s Prayer, �Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil�, says it all. I am not influenced by what I am seeing around me.� It is wonderful to hear someone speak in a positive light about religion in this secular world. My compliments. My only regret is that I didn�t get down on one knee.� But there can be little argument that he�s worshipped at her feet ever since. I think I have a mini-crush on this guy. He politely asks that his remarks be off the record, then proceeds to deliver such a broadside against a Hollywood star with whom he worked, with dates and details of the tantrums, lies and deceit, that my fingers itch to type in the name right here Any guesses Inspector R? ;-)

What I liked about the article when I skimmed over it last night was Caveziel's rationale and all the examples from the old, classic movies. It's true, those actors were sexy without baring skin, sleeping in twin beds, wearing both parts of a PJ set, and keeping one foot on the floor at all times. One can even overlook the insipid shots of waves crashing on the surf or curtains flapping around the window. If I were his wife, I'd be thrilled to pieces with his attitude: the only breasts he wants pressed against him are his wife's. (Moon) Any guesses Inspector R? Wouldn't have a clue.

Paltrow takes sides in Plath vs. Plath Gwyneth Paltrow is a strong bet to take the role of tragic American poetess Sylvia Plath in "Ted and Sylvia," which Ruby Films is developing with BBC Films to shoot later this year. Pawel Pawlikowski ("Last Resort") is attached to direct. It's the story of Plath's marriage to English poet Ted Hughes, which ended in her suicide. "Monsoon Wedding" helmer Mira Nair is attached to direct a rival Plath script by Dana Stevens, which U.S. producers Nina Sadowsky and Michael London are developing out of turnaround from Warner.

"Monsoon Wedding" helmer Mira Nair What? Mira is breaking out? What will we do without her colorful modern India references? ;-) I thought MW was a drawn out soap opera. Good colors though. Now if you want to see a BRILLIANT film go see HUMAN NATURE. I strongly recommend you see it. It is a satire, and ultimately the parody of a satire. It works. Rhys I's acting is superb.

Look, even his protest pal is working: Prime Minister Tony Blair's father-in-law has been signed up for a part in TV show The Bill. Actor Tony Booth, 70, is currently filming scenes as the warden of an old people's home in the episodes, to be screened this summer. Booth, Cherie Blair's father, is best known for his role as Alf Garnett's son-in-law in 1960s sitcom Til Death Us Do Part. His most recent role was in Channel 5 soap Family Affairs, and he is also a vociferous campaigner for pensioners' rights.

Look, even his protest pal is working: One of our favourite family games when we go to the theatre is to look through the cast resumes and see how what percentage of them have appeared in the Bill. Usually it is about 50% ;-) And I do very much hope that Colin does not count Tony Booth amongst his real pals. That would definitely end my CF obsession.

Jeff Bridges is so damn cool!:-) Check out his site: Jeff Bridges says he's addicted to the internet Jeff Bridges says he's hooked on emailing and the internet. The star of K-Pax says he treats his own website like a work of art. JeffBridges.com includes movie trailers and some of the actor's photographs and art. Bridges says: "I really enjoy treating the website like another art form. It's a way of communicating with the world and expressing yourself like a painting. "Some of my photos and art are on there. It's kind of a wonderful thing." You can see Bridges talking about the film and his website in an online interview. It is available to watch in Real Media and Windows format.

Maybe Matt should check with Evelyn about the food... Matt Damon has been turned away from one of London's most famous restaurants. He turned up at The Ivy with co-stars from his play This Is Our Youth to celebrate their first day off rehearsals. But he was told by managers at the restaurant he could only get a table for four. The group of nine, which included the late River Phoenix's sister Summer and Ben Affleck's brother Casey, decided to dine at Sheekey's fish restaurant in Covent Garden instead. A spokesman for The Ivy told the London Evening Standard: "There is a six-month waiting list for a table here - though we do keep three tables for regulars to book at short notice, and for when celebrities are in town and book very late. "In this instance, Damon was turned away with his friends and tried to sweet-talk his way in. "It didn't carry any weight since we only have one table which can take nine and that was booked. "We're certainly not in the business of rearranging people in the restaurant just to accommodate a Hollywood star."

A not so good review for the new production of the Elephant Man (Billy Crudup and Rupert Graves, who fares better) by the AP here: http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=821&ncid=821&e=3&u=/ap/20020415/ap_en_re/theater_the_elephant_man_5

And a wonderful one by Variety, praising Crudup's luminious performance: http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=852&ncid=770&e=1&u=/variety/20020416/review_variety/review_stage_elephant_dc_1 Go figure...

Thanks Karen. Sounds like one reviewer likes the play to be less "chic, clinical and chilly" and the other admires it for being so. Glad I skipped this one for May.

A very good EM review from the NY Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2002/04/15/arts/theater/15ELEP.html

Did anyone catch Almost Strangers on BBC America on Saturday night. A really good show. Toby Stephens, Claire Skinner, and I want to say David McFayden? Michael Gambon plays the dad, and they're invited a to a family reunion where most of the families don't really know each other anymore. I don't know if it's a regular series or if it was just a movie, but it was really good. Catch it if you can.

The "mature" version of Dangerous Liaisons had its day at the TV market yesterday at Cannes, so there are lots of press snippets about it. This one from THR seemed the most comprehensive: For a moment Tuesday, MIP-TV looked more like the Festival de Cannes, with the stars and paparazzi out in force on La Croisette for the official launch of French TV superproduction "Dangerous Liaisons," an adaptation of the 18th century novel by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos. The miniseries recently started shooting under the banner of French production company JLA Production, English production house Future Films and Remstar from Canada, with JLA covering 60% of the production costs and the other two companies splitting the remainder. The remake, reset in the 1960s, is being shot in parallel in French and English versions, as all the cast members except Leelee Sobieski are bilingual. It will be broadcast in France by the commercial network TF1, whose distribution arm TF1 International will handle distribution in Latin America and Eastern Europe (including Russia). French group AB International Distribution will handle the rest of the world, aside from North America, which JLA wants to sell directly. Remstar and Future Films will distribute in their own countries. Catherine Deneuve, in her first television role, joined fellow thesps Rupert Everett, Nastassja Kinski and Sobieski at the "Liaisons" junket. Adapted by Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt, the classic will be shot in three 90-minute episodes for the French version and two 100-minute episodes for the English one. Locations include Cannes, Paris, Scotland, Montreal and New York. Asked why she had refused television roles until now, Deneuve said she never had a problem with the medium but that no proposition had interested her sufficiently. "I am not interested in doing a remake of the excellent period productions we already have," Deneuve said. "But the fact that the story line has been moved to a different era makes it a challenge."

"But the fact that the story line has been moved to a different era makes it a challenge." Mais cherie, verr ave u been? It's been done. The "mature" version Zat must be ze attraction. ;-) As I've said before, these people lack original ideas.

Asked why she had refused television roles until now I seem to recall seeing TV commercials with Deneuve when I was a kid. Guess they don't count. ;-)

The "mature" version (Moon)Zat must be ze attraction. ;-) For the Modern Maturity channel. IMO this older gang suits RE more than the young lover in TIOBE.

From Screendaily: Loopholes allowing TV productions to access UK tax relief for films are to be closed, the Government announced in its budget on Wednesday (April 17). The move is expected to stem a rash of TV projects that have accessed the UK's influential 100% tax write-offs under Section 48, leading to calls of widespread abuse. The definition of a British film is expected to be overhauled in order to rule out TV projects. "This will refocus the reliefs on the original intention of stimulating the production of films in the UK and to promote growth, employment, investment and opportunities in the British film industry," said Chancellor Gordon Brown. The decision creates a major headache for producers as the move is effective 17 April 2002. The fate of large-scale projects such as Dinotopia, which is still in production, is unclear. While many local TV series such as Changing Rooms are to be ruled out, UK support body the Film Council is expected to look at whether the regulation changes can find a middle ground to encompass such high-end drama productions as Band Of Brothers. The epic World War 2 drama series gave local crews and facilities a massive boost by shooting in the UK. But the move will be welcomed by many in the film sector who feared that the level of TV productions claiming relief might have caused the Treasury to crack down on the tax breaks as a whole. "The brutal truth is this was a necessary measure to keep Government support intact for British cinema production," said John Woodward, head of the Film Council. "In reality, what the Chancellor has done is pull the tax break back into line with his original intention."

While many local TV series such as Changing Rooms are to be ruled out, I like this show. It's the only thing I watch regularly on BBC America. (I admit I don't get the gist of the article) Speak plainly my Lord Chancellor!

For Mark, a major fan of v. tall, light-haired, interchangeable actresses: ;-D IGN FilmForce's source close to the production of The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen has advised us of who the favored contender is for the comic book adaptation's sole female lead, ex-Dracula love interest Mina (Murray) Harker. Our source told us that British actress Saffron Burrows (Deep Blue Sea) has auditioned for the part and is being actively considered for it. They were quick to point out, however, that no deal has been offered to her yet. She is just the actress that the filmmakers seem most keen on now. In The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Queen Victoria assembles a team of literature's greatest adventure heroes (including Allan Quatermain, Captain Nemo, Dr. Jekyll, The Invisible Man, and Mina Harker) to thwart an evil madman. Mina Harker was most recently portrayed onscreen by Winona Ryder in Bram Stoker's Dracula and by Amy Yasbeck in the Mel Brooks-directed vampire spoof, Dracula: Dead and Loving It. Saffron Burrows has appeared in Timecode, Circle of Friends, Gangster No. 1, The Loss of Sexual Innocence , Wing Commander, and The Matchmaker. Her upcoming films include Enigma and Frida. Our Extraordinary source then advised us that David Thewlis is no longer in the running for the role of Dr. Jekyll. We did learn, however, that Jekyll's alter ego, Mr. Hyde, will be created using a "hybrid" of CGI and traditional make-up effects. We were also informed that Robbie Coltrane (From Hell, the Harry Potter franchise) is being thought of for an unspecified role while "lots of Hollywood stars" are being considered to play Captain Nemo. Sean Connery is the only signed member of the Extraordinary cast so far. Filming begins this summer in Europe with Stephen Norrington directing.

while "lots of Hollywood stars" are being considered to play Captain Nemo Johnny Depp will probably land something.

"while "lots of Hollywood stars" are being considered to play Captain Nemo (Moon)Johnny Depp will probably land something. LOL. Saw a pic of Johnny Depp (whose partner has recently had a second baby) with write-up that suddenly he's working back to back... Caption: "Will work for Diapers"

Le Gnat's appearance on Inside the Actor's Studio is scheduled for May 12 at 8:00 and 11:30pm on Bravo. That's coincidentally a few days before AAB opens in the US.

For Mark, a major fan of v. tall, light-haired, interchangeable actresses: ;-D Oh, cruel, cruel, but deserved! And I was only joking about Heather really... And I don't like Saffron Burrows at all, though Enigma was great. Restraining myself from making any cracks about tall, dark interchangeable English actors (as might get included).... ;-D

Did anyone see Andrew Davies get his Fellowship from BAFTA? Did they show a clip of P&P?

CHICAGO will be released on Chrismas day 2002.$45.mil Looks like it's Miramax's big holiday film (I thought it was Gangs of NY).Also on with RZ, Catherine Zeta Jones...there's Richard Gere and Dominic West! ~~~~~~~~~~~` I see The Way we Live Now Won a BAFTA, but David Suchet didn't.Last Episode tonight.(Hey, Dave didn't you know it's Michael Gambon's turn;-D , next year Robbi Coltrane gets it.) Are the TV awards ,unlike the film awards, only for British Television? If not..where was Damian Lewis and Band of Brothers..not even nominated. *Huff* Rest of winners: http://www.bafta.org/4_tele/4_WINNERS.htm

Rebecca, yes they showed clips from lots of Andres Davies' work, for P+P they showed the scene at the inn where Lizzie has just received the letter from Jane. Evelyn, yes British TV only, don't know how the rules about co-productions work or the cut off dates for nominations

(Evelyn) If not..where was Damian Lewis and Band of Brothers..not even nominated. Was not British television program, right? ;-D

No nomination for Armadillo? Which has yet to reach our shores, BTW.

Here's the Cannes 2002 lineup: Opening Film Hollywood Ending Dir: Woody Allen Closing Film And Now...Ladies And Gentlemen Dir: Claude Lelouch Competition Punch Drunk Love Dir: Paul Thomas Anderson The Hour Of Religion Dir: Marco Bellocchio Spider Dir: David Cronenberg Le Fils Dir: Jean-Luc and Pierre Dardenne Kedma Dir: Amos Gitai Stroke Of Fire Dir: Im Kwon Taek Unknown Pleasures Dir: Jia Zhang-ke The Man Without A Past Dir: Aki Kaurismaki 10 Dir: Abbas Kiarostami All Or Nothing Dir: Mike Leigh Sweet Sixteen Dir: Ken Loach The Uncertainty Principle Dir: Manoel De Oliveira The Pianist Dir: Roman Polanski The Russian Ark Dir: Alexander Sokurov Intervention Divine Dir: Elia Suleiman 24 Hour Party People Dir: Michael Winterbottom Demonlover Dir: Olivier Assayas L�Adversaire Dir: Nicole Garcia Marie Jo Et Ses Deux Amours Dir: Robert Guediguian Irreversible Dir: Gaspard Noe Out of competition Spirit (animation) Dir: Kelly Asbury & Lorna Cook Devras Dir: Sanjay Leela Bhansali Ararat Dir: Atom Egoyan City Of God Dir: Fernando Mereilles Murder By Numbers Dir: Barbet Schroeder Special Screenings The Other Side Dir: Chantal Ackerman Searching For Debra Winger Dir: Rosanna Arquette Carlo Guiliani, Ragazzo Dir: Francesca Comencini The Kid Stays In The Picture Dirs: Brett Morgan & Nanette Burstein Kazami No Onnatachi Dir: Kiju Yoshida La Derniere Lettre Dir: Frederic Weismann Un Certain Regard Madame Sata Dir: Karim Ainouz Rachida Dir: Yamina Bashir Cry Woman (Kuqi De Nuren) Dir: Liu Bingjian (China) Double Vision Dir: Chen Kuo Fu (China-HK) Confession (Itiraf) Dir: Ziki Demirkubuz Balzac Et La Petite Tailleuse Chinoise Dir: Dai Sijie (Fr-China) Les Chansons Du Pays De Ma Mere Dir: Bahman Ghobadi (Iran) Tomorrow La Scala Dir: Francesca Joseph (UK) Une Part Du Ciel Dir: Benedicte Lienard (Bel) Sacrifices Dir: Osama Mouhamad (Syria) Bemani Dir: Dariush Mehrjui Terra Incognito Dir: Ghassan Salhab (Lebanon) Waiting For Happiness (Heremakono) Dir: Abderrahmane Sissako (Mauritania) Long Way Home Peter Sollet (US) El Bonaerense Dir: Pablo Trapero The Angel Of The Right Shoulder Dir: Djamshed Ousmanov (Tadjikistan) Blissfully Yours Dir: Apichapong Weerasethakul (Thailand) Ten Minutes Older - The Trumpet Dirs: ensemble piece Carnages Dir: Delphine Gleize (Fr) Dix-Sept Fois Cecile Cassard Dir: Christophe Honore (Fr) La Chatta A Deux Tetes Dir: Jacques Nolot (Fr) Cannes� selectors this year have opted for absolute simplicity: main competition is the home of the established names of the art-house, while Un Certain Regard gives room for experimentation, new directors and little seen schools of film-making. Rather than follow the example of Venice last year and launch two largely indistinguishable competitions of supposedly equal merit, they sought established talent and known quality for the competition showcase. Gilles Jacob, Thierry Fremaux and their teams are understood to have seen over 1,200 features, an increase of 25%, in order to arrive at their eventual shortlist of 22 competition titles. The competition features previous competition winners Mike Leigh, the Dardenne brothers and Abbas Kiarostami. Previous competitors include Olivier Assayas, Michael Winterbottom, Manoel De Oliveira, Alexander Sokurov, Roman Polanski, Ken Loach, Aki Kaurismaki, Im Kwon Taek, Amos Gitai, David Cronenberg and Marco Bellocchio. The one female director, Nicole Garcia, had previously competed in the short film section. Earlier press commentary has made much of the numerous British films in official selection - four, including Francesca Joseph�s Tomorrow La Scala in Un Certain Regard - after a period of drought. But the nearest to a new UK discovery, Lynne Ramsay with Morvern Callar, will now appear in Directors Fortnight (La Quinzaine Des Realisateurs). Un Certain Regard, on the other hand, reflects a geographical renewal. It is dominated by films from the Mediterranean and Middle East (Algeria, Lebanon, Israel, Syria, Turkey) and includes seven first features. As expected there were fewer Asian films than last year, and no Japanese at all after the four of 2001. This may reflect a timing issue in the Asian production cycle. But there is room for only the second ever Korean film in competition Im Kwon-taek�s Stroke Of Fire. The most controversial element is likely to be Gaspar Noe�s sexually explicit Irreversible. There was no room for some of the widely expected titles including Neil Jordan�s Double Down, Tonie Marshall�s Au Plus Pres De Paradis, Arturo Ripstein�s Caf� Cortado, Thomas Vinterberg�s Its All About Love, Hong Sang-soo�s Turning Gate and Prince Chatri Chalerm�s Suriyothai.

Searching For Debra Winger Dir: Rosanna Arquette Film audition for VHI? ;-) The Angel Of The Right Shoulder Dir: Djamshed Ousmanov (Tadjikistan) Interesting. The Hour Of Religion Dir: Marco Bellocchio This is supposed to be very good. Thanks, Karen! Any word on who will be there?

I was going to post this on #155 due but thought it might cause too many heart attacks (try to avoid reading the reference 2/3 way through article :-( http://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/0,,581-277850,00.html

You mean this, Allison: The kindest thing to say is that, where Hornby material is concerned, Grant doesn�t muck it up as badly as Colin Firth did in Fever Pitch (on the other hand, John Cusack in High Fidelity runs rings around him). That review comes as no surprise to me since the only NH book I remotely enjoyed was HF. Nick does write better than a lot of them out there, but that is no consolation.

*exhales huge breath* Now, now. Let's consider the source. In case no one remembers, this woman is a Huge fan. (You can see from this AAB review that she thinks highly of him, except not in this role). All you have to do is read her review of BJD. She mentioned HG 7 times (vs. 4 for CF) and referred to CF as crashingly dull and to Huge as the dashing bounder. I'm sure if we look, we'll find she's the president of the Gnat's fan club. ;-D

Thanks Allison, I do hear that the Daily Mail gave the film and HG a terrific review. I was going to post this on #155 due but thought it might cause too many heart attacks LOL. You won't give me a heart attack, I am not a fan of NH or FP. However, I do think Colin did a good job of portraying Paul Ashworth , a slob-like character, IMO and is being tainted with the role.And don't get me started on Ruth Gemell...

(Allison)As FP is one of my favorite CF films- I did feel some pain down my left arm. But,as Karen said, consider the source. I feel I have been on a roller coaster all week with all the articles, reviews, etc.

(lindak) As FP is one of my favorite CF films It's one of mine, too. And I'm not feeling any pain as am too busy thumbing my nose and blowing a big bronx cheer at this writer, who nevertheless is entitled to her opinion however narrow-minded it may be. ;-)

My computer recently crashed and I lost the pride and joy of my exhistance...namely my Darcy "The Look" screen saver. I downloaded this thing over 2 years ago and now I need to re-download it. Unfortunatley, as it has been 2 years since I first found it, I have absolutley no idea where I found the Pride and Predudice screen savers in the first place. Can anyone help me out with a website address ? It was an AWESOME screensaver...a shot of Darcy from mid-chest up, gazing longingly at Lizzie as she played the piano at Pemberley. Karen, hope its ok to ask my question here. I haven't been a contributor to Drool for several months ( due to my boss now monitoring the internet usage of his employees ) but I have been a frequent reader of all threads and topics. So I hope you don't think me too impertinent to post my plea for help, after what appears to be an absence of several months.

Bethanne, tell that boss of yours to not be so, um, bossy.;-) I'm sure someone here will have what you're looking for. There's another bad About A Boy review in The Independent that also takes a swipe at FP; thankfully, they didn't name names.;-) Telegraph review is poor as well. Am surprised, thought this one was a Huge slam dunk.

I agre Mari, unfortunatley he signs my pay checks. So far I have been able to find several P&P sites where I can download pix from the TV series, but none as screen savers....boo hiss

Beth This might have what you're looking for: http://www.angelfire.com/film/susansite/

There's another bad About A Boy review in The Independent that also takes a swipe at FP; thankfully, they didn't name names.;-) Telegraph review is poor as well. Am surprised, thought this one was a Huge slam dunk. The Review in the Telegraph (which has carried a lot of promo for AOB) was absolutely dreadful. As bad as the Times, which only gave AOB 1 star (out of 5). The Guardian is very luke warm, ditto the Independent. The pre-release stuff was all favourable, but that was probably good PR with the entertainment mags. I think the tabloids have been kind, but the the quality press cater for the NH heartland. On the basis of these reviews, AOB could be in trouble. It also has competition from "Bend it like Beckham" (well received Brit comedy) which is still going very strongand got uniformly good reviews. Interesting!

No, of course, I don't mind, Beth. I doubt the AAB reviews will affect its overall popularity in the US. It seems to be a given that the UK critics savage nearly all films, especially of the home-grown variety that attempt to be mainstream. (See UK reviews of BJD on the Bucket. Most fell into my "Fuckwittage" category.) And none of this would affect IMO affect future casting decisions re BJD. About the FP swipes, we have to remember that adapting Nick's nonfiction book into a traditional rom-com would be viewed as a sellout and would disappoint many people. Don't some of you remember the clips from the UK movie review shows and the complaining about how they ruined the book? Unfortunately, they've laid the blame on Colin, when it should be directed to the makers of the film.

Unfortunately, they've laid the blame on Colin, when it should be directed to the makers of the film. He read the script and agreed to do it as it was. Some actors stress that things be changed during the filming if they feel it would enhance the film. I thought John C did a better job with HF.

There wasn't anything the matter with the FP script as far as rom-coms are concerned. The fact that it wasn't an indepth look at a football fan's life is the fault of the filmmakers. They were criticizing the film for what it was not - not the performances. (Moon) I thought John C did a better job with HF. That's because HF was (1) fiction, (2) they adhered fairly closely to the book and (3) NH didn't do the adaptation.

(Karen) It seems to be a given that the UK critics savage nearly all films, especially of the home-grown variety that attempt to be mainstream. How true. Pure carnage, and they do it with such glee.They're repulsive. (Karen)Unfortunately, they've laid the blame on Colin, when it should be directed to the makers of the film. (Moon)He read the script and agreed to do it as it was. Some actors stress that things be changed during the filming if they feel it would enhance the film. That was his first starring film since THOTP; I doubt he had the leverage and experience to change the script. Besides, IMO he was eager to select *any* film that wasn't in the Darcy mode in order to disarm the aura. His performance was OK, it was just the ridiculous character. (Karen)There wasn't anything the matter with the FP script as far as rom-coms are concerned I don't want to turn this into another FP discussion ( we've done it before ;-), but I didn't like NH's script and agreed with the television reviewers that the whole "rom" part was so contrived as to make it almost comedic; just stuck in there in order to being in the chicks.Years later, I learned it did not do well at the box office either. Bring on Joe Prince!!

(Evelyn) Bring on Joe Prince!! *cough cough* blech BTW, most rom coms are usually contrived, that's why it was fairly normal IMO.

It seems to be a given that the UK critics savage nearly all films, especially of the home-grown variety that attempt to be mainstream. Which is why UK film-makers prefer to open in the US first, if possible. Years later, I learned it did not do well at the box office either FP did much better in video rentals. I suspect that a lot of CF/Darcy fans weren't very comfortable about going to see a "soccer" movie (and we're not the greatest movie goers anyway - although this may be changing!) and waited for the video.

(Bethan) FP did much better in video rentals. No thanks to the graphics! :-) That certainly did not attract the Darcy fans.

But they had a nonoffensive vid cover in the UK and other places. It was only in the US that some hormonally imbalanced boy decided the cover needed to be more relevant to sports fans. ;-D

(Evelyn) it was just the ridiculous character. Humph. On behalf of sports fans everywhere, am highly insulted. ;-) ;-) ;-) (Karen) decided the cover needed to be more relevant to sports fans. ;-D Humph. You left out the word 'male' before 'sports fans'. ;-) ;-) ;-)

(Evelyn) it was just the ridiculous character. (Eileen)Humph. On behalf of sports fans everywhere, am highly insulted. ;-) ;-) ;-) AAA

(Eileen) You left out the word 'male' before 'sports fans'. Mea culpa. Figured it was understood. If it was directed at female sports fans, it would've had the figures reversed, so we would see CF. Everyone knows women get interested in organized sports for the cute athletes. Go QBs everywhere. ;-D

(Evelyn) AAA (Karen) Mea culpa What, I didn't put enough winkies? ;-P (Karen) Everyone knows women get interested in organized sports for the cute athletes. ;-D Not all of us...but it helps. ;-)

MOVIELINE mag May issue has a segment "London Calling" that has a long article on the two British imports this month: About A Boy and Enigma.Both got rave reviews. I posted excerpts of the Enigma review on the JN topic. I won't ruin your day by typing up the whole AAB review. *winkie* "...captivation film,;superlative writing and acting make it[AAB] soar" Or what he says about HG.... But despite the crappy reviews from the UK broadsheets, there are good ones out there.

I saw a small segment of AAB on the television last night and I have to say it left me cold. As my husband said "that's one to miss". To English ears HG does not fit the New Man, north London type that NH writes about. He sounded all wrong with his attempt at a proletarian tone to his voice; it just didn't gell IMHO. And as for the storeyline... Perhaps I am not the films target audience;-)

Much as I hate to say it, the "mixed" reviews from the UK won't mean anything in the US. We've ignored them before and will do so again. ;-D What will inevitably come up is Hugh's growth as an actor. Our critics will admire that he's gotten away from the cute, floppy-haired puppy dog roles. They won't have a clue as to whether he perfectly fits the North London New Man type. About the only comparison they will make is with John Cusack in High Fidelity.

My younger son went to see AAB yesterday. He has (I think) surprisingly sound judgement for someone his age. He said that AAB was okay-ish, but in no way as good as the book.

Thought you'd all enjoy this: A hot summer boxoffice season appears under way, as new, audience-friendly product is reaching the overseas market at an earlier stage than usual. "About a Boy," the Hugh Grant comedy-drama from Universal and Working Title, joined early birds "The Scorpion King," "Panic Room" and "Ice Age" as a strong international contender by kicking off at No. 1 in the United Kingdom with a mighty $5.5 million (with previews) from 446 screens. It is hailed as the biggest opening for a British film this year. Overseas distributor United International Pictures is releasing "Boy" in a pattern similar to that of last year's "Bridget Jones' Diary," which picked up $60.3 million in a long U.K. run and hit the rest of the world during June, July and August.

Guardian Film reports that AAB opened with �3.7million, the third biggest opener this year, behind Monsters Inc and Oceans Eleven. It's pretty good, I must admit :-( (although lags behind BJD which opened with nearly �6million on fewer screens!) But Huge has another major success on his hands and can call all the shots. Guardian Film also reports that RZ is starting filming a romantic comedy in May, with Ewan McGregor. Natasha Richardson (Dora?)is also filming in May, with Ralph Fiennes.

IMO AAB succeeding in the US bodes well for all Britsh films. There's room for both he and CF. HG has been around a long time with a string of hits. It's not as if they are competing for the same roles.They have different styles of acting.

Colin's not suitable for this, but I thought I'd post it anyway: Brit's a Fit for 'Stage' NEW YORK (Variety) - British director Richard Eyre ("Iris") is attached to take the helm of "Compleat Female Stage Beauty," a comedic drama set in 17th century England. Based on playwright Jeffrey Hatcher's work of the same title, the Artisan Pictures project tells the story of a leading stage actor who is playing women's roles in 1661 England. When the king declares it illegal for men to act in women's roles, the great thesp finds himself downsized. Robert De Niro's Tribeca Films will produce the film with Artisan. "It is incredibly gratifying to marry the right material with the right director," said Rachel Cohen, Artisan's senior VP of acquisitions and production. "In this case, we have a complex script that is funny, tragic and sexy, and we are pleased that Richard will bring his immense artistic abilities to our film." "Iris" garnered a supporting actor Oscar for Jim Broadbent and nominations for Judi Dench and Kate Winslet for actress and supporting actress, respectively. As director of the Royal National Theater in London, Eyre directed 27 productions, including "Guys and Dolls," Christopher Hampton's "White Chameleon" and Tennessee Williams' "The Night of the Iguana." He recently helmed the Broadway revival of Arthur Miller's "The Crucible."

"He [Richard Eyre]recently helmed the Broadway revival of Arthur Miller's "The Crucible." Which has been nominated for Drama Desk Best Revival of a Play as well as Liam Neeson as Best Actor in a Revival. Wonder how enchanted RE is with CF since he bolted from Sue Birtwistle's Armadillo?

How do we know he bolted? He was too old for that part IMO anyway.

A&E verified that Colin was in the cast. (Allison)He was too old for that part IMO anyway. Think so?Maybe now...but two years ago we didn't think so. We have yet to see it. BTW I did like James Frain as Edmund in King Lear. Good stage presence, and he did project clearly the night we saw him.

I did like James Frain as Edmund in King Lear. I am glad he was okay when you saw him. He was obviously having a bad attack of the mumbles on the night we went;-)

(Evelyn) A&E verified that Colin was in the cast. If memory serves, they didn't. I think the term used was that he was 'involved' in the project and/or something else to do with writing. I recall expecting imminent further confirmation that he was to star. Next thing we knew, James Frain was attached.

Next thing? Yeah, after about six months. *winkie winkie* and another *winkie* for good measure.

*winkie right back atcha* Oh yes, the saga dragged on and on. No matter, is H2O under the bridge, as they say. At least the book was a good read. ;-)

watched Fever Pitch for the first time last night (yes, i know. i'm a couple of years behind everyone else...) THOSE CURLS! LOL!

NO, you are not a few years behind everyone else-at least not too far behind me.I saw FP for the first time in Feb. It has become one of my favorite CF films. I just ordered the screenplay from a woman in the UK. I didn't even see BJD until January-I can't bear to think that I missed that one on the big screen.

I saw About a Boy tonight and it is seriously funny. Hugh is quite good and he only did one trademark "embarrassed" bit. But the audience really enjoyed this one. I overheard this woman next to me say it was "great." Men were laughing loudly. It's done in a mainstream comedy fashion unlike High Fidelity. Where you had Cusack talking to the audience, here you have Hugh doing voiceovers of his actual thoughts and they are a riot. The directors were there and took Q&A afterward. When they introduced the film, they welcomed us to the "directors' cut" and commended us for coming to see the 5-1/2 hour version. That set the tone. These guys were a riot and said some rather funny but slamming things against various filmmaking entities (here and there). Oh yes, the kid who played Marcus looked like he should be Leonard Nimoy's son. It's going to do extremely well here. No one is going to make a big deal about whether HG's doing a north London accent or not. They are going to think he's brilliant and perfect for the part.

AAB will do very well world-wide, there's no doubt. Hugh's new bad-guy sexy single image is also working well for him...Heat magazine carries an interview in which he talks about his split with Liz, Divine B. and who he finds sexy . CF can't compete! My main concern is that this will impact on TEOR, if/when it goes ahead. Huge has terrific clout. And he's clever. He described the original screenplay for BJD as "crap" (Andrew Davies must love him!) and said that Richard Curtis worked wonders on it (to his benefit)...he also counted the one liners to see who had the most funny lines. TEOR allows Mark Darcy to evolve into a much more lively character with a sharp sense of humour. I can't see Huge accepting the AD script if Darcy dominates or allowing Darcy to be anything other than stuffy.And I think he now has the power to demand and get exactly what he wants...which won't be TEOR as we know it. :-( I may be wrong. :-) Sharon Maguire's "Eustace Diamonds" has an excellent and sympathetic lead role in the barrister Frank Greystock. But, who knows?...

I meant to comment on this last night: (Bethan) My younger son went to see AAB yesterday. He has (I think) surprisingly sound judgement for someone his age. He said that AAB was okay-ish, but in no way as good as the book. This movie is so, not aimed at the usual demographic (boys 14-25 or whatever it is exactly). This is a movie for adults, I'd say 30-something and older, to truly appreciate. Moreover, it surpasses anything Richard Curtis does. There's no potty humor or lines that make you want to cringe. In fact, there's not a bad line in whole movie. Yes, they've made lots of changes from the book (details on that are vague now) and most people won't notice or care. As far as Hugh's influence on the course of TEOR, I'm not losing sleep over it.

Sounds like Hugh and Richard Curtis have grown up on AAB. There's a fabulous review on "The Trades:" http://www.the-trades.com/column.php?columnid=1110 "To be completely honest, Grant may have the best performance of his career in ?Boy.? He conveys smart, classy, lazy, and sleazy without ever losing the character. Grant is amazing because he is able to juggle the dramatic and the comedic with ease. While he performed much of the same in ?Notting Hill,? Grant steps beyond that role by freeing himself of his puppy-dog image. He doesn?t whimper or puddle-hop. Grant grabs the story by the balls, because that is what Will needs. Grant wins over EVERY scene he is in." Maybe I'll go see it; had planned to wait til it came on the telly;-)

As far as Hugh's influence on the course of TEOR, I'm not losing sleep over it. Why not? Don't you care? Or do you have a large supply of temazepam? ;-)

by freeing himself of his puppy-dog image. The Weitzes said they wouldn't allow Hugh to fall back on his safety net (floppy hair) but said he had such an understanding of the character that they didn't need to give him much direction. They considered him perfect for the role. Initially, I had thought about raising my hand and asking why they didn't cast Colin in the role, but it seemed rather ridiculous considering all the praise Hugh was getting. (Allison) Why not? Don't you care? Or do you have a large supply of temazepam? ;-) Well, as a matter of fact temazepam doesn't work for me, but... ;-D I put this in the Doris Day "Que Sera Sera" category.

While he performed much of the same in Notting Hill,?Grant steps beyond that role by freeing himself of his puppy-dog image From the clips I've seen, he's still a variation on North London middle class Hugh Grant. When he convinces as Shylock or Quasimodo, then I'll start applauding! ;-) But I'm not very objective about Huge at the moment.. ;-)

(Bethan) When he convinces as Shylock or Quasimodo, then I'll start applauding! ;-) Are we not setting the bar a little high? Remind me again when Colin played such roles in recent memory? ;-)))

But I'm not very objective about Huge at the moment.. ;-) LOL or ever;-) Hugh is not a dramatic actor, he never purports to be. He's got a niche (smart man!).In this film apparently he's successfully stretching it. Me thinks he's more popular in the US than in the UK.

Me thinks he's more popular in the US than in the UK. That is the truth! Wasn't there a poll in the Daily Mirror of all places in which readers were asked whom they preferred HG or CF and it was something like CF 78% HG the rest? We may not be a literate race but we definitely have good taste in men ;-)

We may not be a literate race but we definitely have good taste in men ;-) LOL! God one, Allison, and just think, Colin helped it along. ;-)

On reflection, I think I'll just be happy if we have a BJD2, even if it's not TEOR, even if Daniel gets the gal! So many projects seem to bite the dust. If the Huge connection gets the sequel off the ground/opens up the market, all to the good!

even if Daniel gets the gal! bite your tongue! :-) *shudder* okay, i can see him coming back to make a play for her again. Afterall, she turned HIM down after the fight scene. Not something he's going to get over very easily. (he thinks he's better than she is -or at least higher up on that stupid proveribal male ladder) But it would have to be his trying to woo her away from MD -like some sort of compition. So you're right. It would be BJD2 not TEOR. oh well.

Seems like BJD The Sequel is on...see my posting at #149.

Now, here's a Hamlet I wouldn't mind seeing: Christopher Eccleston is to play Hamlet at the West Yorkshire Playhouse this autumn. The TV and film star last appeared on stage two years ago in Miss Julie in the West End. The production of Hamlet opens in Leeds on October 25. It will be directed by Ian Brown, associate artistic director of the West Yorkshire Playhouse.

RZ was on the Today Show this morning. She'll be in NY this weekend for the Revlon walk/run for breast cancer. She also mention she'll be in Chicago (I didn't catch when)to film a musical based on Chicago. Karen, maybe you'll be able to ask Ms. Jones directly about TEoR. Did the DM article say that RZ's body double was asked to do it again IF she signs or because she did sign on to do the sequel?

RZ was also on The View. She is running tomorrow in NYC in the Revlon Walk/Run for Cancer research. She is running in honor of a dear friend who recently had breast cancer.Renee is sporting brown hair with a blond streak. She was v. earnest, not giggly as usual. and I thought her voice was not as high-pitched as during the BJD promos. The whole crowd on the View is running... Barbara Walters said she'd be in the stands!!

Wow, Bridget Jones coming to Karen's Windy City!

The movie musical "Chicago" has already been filmed (and it was done in Toronto). If RZ is coming here, maybe it's for another breast cancer event.

Karen, I'm not completely sure, but she is doing another cancer appearance in LA. I'm almost sure that she was going to Chicago for a film,because she was asked if she ever sang and danced before. This was part of the discussion on going to Chicago-I missed the "when" part.

From IndieWire: Why Studio Remakes Don't Suck; U.S. Versions Rebound Foreign Originals, From Korea to "Insomnia" With its seemingly complete absence of original ideas, it's no surprise to see Hollywood harvesting scenarios from overseas. After all, there has to come a certain point in time when they've exhausted every comic book, video game, TV show, and action movie franchise. This summer alone, reports the New York Times, at least 16 movies fall into the category of sequel, prequel, spinoff, or remake. [Ed note: Was there a mention of TIOBE?] So in their never-ending search for stories that have already proven themselves, studio execs at companies big and small are now looking to foreign hits. This month, Christopher Nolan makes his studio directing debut with a remake of 1997 Norwegian suspenser "Insomnia." Even independents got into the act: Samuel Goldwyn's English-language, Latin-accented "Tortilla Soup," a remake of Ang Lee's "Eat Drink Man Woman," grossed a formidable $4.5 million for distribution arm IDP last year. Recently, Hollywood has looked even further astray, with Korea emerging as a new hotbed of adaptable product. Last year, Miramax opened the floodgates, becoming the first company to purchase the remake rights to a Korean film: Cho Jin-kyu's "My Wife Is a Gangster," a blockbuster about a female gang boss who marries an unsuspecting man. Not to be outdone by the Weinsteins, MGM recently purchased the rights to Kwan Park's "Hi, Dharma," another hit about a group of fleeing gangsters who take refuge in a monastery; Dreamworks acquired Kwak Jae-yong's romantic comedy "My Sassy Girl," to be made by Madonna's Maverick Films; and just last month, Warner Brothers acquired the rights to Lee Hyun-seung's "Il Mare," which tells the story of a man and woman living two years apart who are able to communicate with each other through a time-defying mailbox. While American audiences may never see the originals, the remake craze is helping sustain a Korean film boon. Last year, locally produced films nabbed the top five box office spots. "With the increased interest of Hollywood studios in remaking Korean films, local production companies have discovered a potentially lucrative new source of revenue," states the Korean Film Commission's website. "It's better to be sold for a remake than not to be sold at all," says Kwang Woo Noh, who works for the Korean Film Commission. Noh feels that Korean blockbusters face a double bind: They won't reach a wide U.S. audience because of Americans' fear of subtitles, but releasing the films in arthouse theaters won't work either, because the movies are mainly big-budget popcorn fare. "These Korean films have not been circulated through the U.S. art/foreign cinema market because they are not categorized as 'art cinema'," he explains. "If you saw 'Shiri,'" he continues, referring to the 1999 action-thriller that beat out "Titanic" at the Korean box office, "you might wonder why this film was released through art cinema theaters." Distributed in the U.S. by IDP, the same company that released "Tortilla Soup," "Shiri" tanked, grossing less than a $100,000. So, how to get these stories to U.S. shores? Answer: the studio remake. Like the Korean blockbusters, high concept genre films (without U.S. distribution possibilities) appear to be the number one item on studio's shopping lists. Universal Pictures recently purchased Hideo Nakata's "Kaosu" (Chaos), which involves a kidnapping plot; and two of the Japanese horror director's other films have also been bought for remakes: "Ringu," about a videotape which leads to serial deaths, has been revamped by Gore Verbinksi ("The Mexican"), starring Naomi Watts, and another is in the works for "Dark Water," the director's latest about a woman who moves into a haunted apartment with her six-year-old daughter. Also in the works is an English version of Hong Kong action guru Johnny To's "The Mission," to be written by Christopher McQuarrie ("The Usual Suspects"). But what about those foreign movies that have already distinguished themselves on American soil? French-language action film "La Femme Nikita" broke $5 million in 1991 for Samuel Goldwyn, while the Bridget Fonda remake "Point of No Return" came and went with a modest $30 million for Warner Bros. Meyer Gottlieb, President of Samuel Goldwyn Films, which also released the original "Three Men and a Cradle" (remade as "Three Men a Baby"), says that awareness for the foreign originals increases after a studio remake. "The ancillary values absolutely increase," he explains. "It increases the value of the film and expands its financial life, especially now with video and DVDs." "I definitely think remakes help the originals," agrees Gary Springer, who represents Norsk Film, the company that sold the Norwegian film "Insomnia" to U.S. indie distributor First Run Features, and then handled the Warner Brothers deal to remake the picture. Springer quotes a recent item in industry magazine, Showbiz Weekly, which read, "If you have yet to see the original 'Insomnia,' rent it before the remake comes out; it's worth your time." Just look at the reviews of just about any English-language remake and you'll see the foreign originals held up as high markers of cinematic excellence when compared with their inferior American counterparts. Variety's review of 1993's "The Vanishing," a Hollywood redo of the 1988 Dutch film, claims, "This is one remake that sacrifices much of what made the original work so well." Springer adds, "On the credits of the new movie, I think it even says, 'based on the screenplay 'Insomnia' from Nikolaj Frobenius and Erik Skjoldbjaerg'; that alone gets the awareness out there." Springer also notes the original is getting renewed life on cable: the Independent Film Channel has scheduled broadcasts of the film all this month. Even distributor First Run was contemplating bringing the original back to theaters for a limited run, according to Springer. So when Akira Kurosawa's classic "The Seven Samurai" is remade yet again by MGM and Miramax, when Britain's Film Four transplants Lukas Moodysson's 2000 Swedish hit "Together" to the United States, when Dreamworks gets around to producing an English version of Francis Veber's French comedy "Le Diner de Cons" (currently titled "Dinner for Schmucks") or when Buena Vista overhauls Juan Carlos Fresnadillo's upcoming Spanish-language thriller "Intacto," it can only help the originals breathe new life. Who cares if the studio remakes suck? It should only give us more reason to seek out the pictures they were inspired by in the first place.

Christopher Nolan makes his studio directing debut with a remake of 1997 Norwegian suspenser "Insomnia." Didn't he direct "Memento"? Not exactly a debutant, IMO. Not too many original ideas. "Dark Water," the director's latest about a woman who moves into a haunted apartment with her six-year-old daughter. The Others. "Il Mare," which tells the story of a man and woman living two years apart who are able to communicate with each other through a time-defying mailbox. Father and son through a radio, (Dennis Quaid's movie). These are probably considered safe bets.

Tony nominations were announced today: Best Revival of a Play: Private Lives, The Crucible, Noises Off and Morning's at Seven [Overlooked: Elephant Man] Best Actress in a Play; Lindsay duncan Private Lives, Helen Mirren, Mercedes Ruehl, Laura Linney The Crucible Best Actor in a Play: Alan Bates, Billy Crudup, Liam Neeson, Alan rickman, [Overlooked: Ian McKellen] Best Director: Howard Davies Private lives, Richard Eyre Crucible, & others Best Director in a Musical Trevor Nunn for Oklahoma!Among others. Full List: http://www.broadway.com/buzz/headlines.cfm?story_id=1004772&ssection_id=7

I am not crazy about this. :-( From the Daily Telegraph: MARTIN AMIS is to launch himself on Hollywood by adapting a Jane Austen novel into a romantic comedy film for teenagers. Amis, the author of dark satires such as London Fields and Money, is writing the screenplay for Northanger Abbey, the only Austen novel not to have been made into a feature film. Last week Amis confirmed his new role, and said he was already halfway through writing the screenplay, which he expected to finish by July. "I am greatly enjoying it," he said. "Jane Austen is a genius, and Northanger Abbey is hugely underrated." Amis is replacing Andrew Davies, the British scriptwriter who adapted Pride and Prejudice and Emma for the screen, who left the project three years ago after falling out with Harvey Weinstein, the president of Miramax Pictures, the film production company. Mr Davies objected to the "teen flick" treatment of the story being promoted by Mr Weinstein, who was said to have originally favoured turning the book into a "high-school drama". Mr Davies wrote two drafts of the script before he left the project because he did not agree with the interpretation. "I think Harvey wanted to drag it in the direction of a teen flick," said Mr Davies last week. "The book does have the youngest of all Jane Austen's heroines, and with the Gothic horror element of the book I guess there was a temptation to think of teen movies like Scream and meld it all together. But I felt uncomfortable about moving too far away from the original book." The novel, which is a spoof on Gothic horror tales such as Frankenstein, features the youngest of all Austen's heroines, Catherine Morland. The 15-year-old daughter of a clergyman, Catherine is taken to Bath for the season. While there, she meets Henry Tilney - the son of an eccentric Army general - who invites her to stay at his medieval mansion, Northanger Abbey. Somewhat unhinged by reading too many books such as Horace Walpole's The Castle of Otrano and Ann Radcliffe's The Mysteries of Udolpho, Catherine imagines that Henry's father, Gen Tilney, has murdered his wife. When the general discovers that she is not the rich heiress he thought she was, she is thrown out of the house and he forbids his son from having anything to do with her. Disobeying his father he follows Catherine to her home, and proposes to her, and is accepted. According to Alison Owen, the film's producer, the project will be "a romantic comedy with the emphasis on the romantic", set in Bath and the surrounding countryside. She said that Amis was "incredibly informed about Jane Austen" and had some "great ideas" about how to re-structure the script. Amis, 53, has won plaudits for his numerous books. However, his film-writing career has gone largely unnoticed. In 1980 he wrote the screenplay for Saturn 3, a science-fiction film which received poor reviews and featured the unlikely pairing of Farrah Fawcett and Harvey Keitel. He also helped with the script for Tim Burton's film Mars Attacks, but later said that although he had "highly enjoyed it, it did not contain a word I wrote".

Well, considering the original "Northanger Abbey" from BBC, he can't do that bad. Christopher Nolan obviously isn't a debutante, but it is his first 'STUDIO' film. I think the casting of Insomnia looks fantastic. Robin Williams as a psycho???? who'da thunk???? :)

From Variety--This should be right up his alley: HBO IN FAMILIAR TERRITORY: HBO has greenlit an adaptation of William Trevor's novel "My House in Umbria," and has reteamed "The Gathering Storm" duo of director Richard Loncraine and scribe Hugh Whitemore. Maggie Smith is set to star as a former madam-turned bed and breakfast owner in Umbria, who is riding on a train that explodes and invites the survivors to convalesce at her B&B. Ann Wingate is producing, and Frank Doelger is exec producer. Hotchkiss & Associates, repping Sterling Lord and London-based lit agency PFD, is shopping Trevor's new novel, "The Story of Lucy Gault."

You must mean his "vicolo" ;-D

Karen), You must mean his "vicolo" ;-D Ma che brava, Karen! Stai imparando l'italiano per quest'estate? Ci vediamo al Lago. :-D (Laura), Christopher Nolan obviously isn't a debutante, but it is his first 'STUDIO' film. I think the casting of Insomnia looks fantastic. Robin Williams as a psycho???? who'da thunk???? :) I like RW, but I've seen the previews and they look awful. Al Pacino overacts in everything, he's a terrible actor. As luck would have it the original Insomnia was on IFC last night and it was very good. Very involved on many levels, quite interesting. I don't think Nolan will shine from this.

...And just whose "vicolo" are we discussing?

And just whose "vicolo" are we discussing? Is there anyone else that commands so much of our attention around here? ;-)

Commanding v.much attention lately!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SUE

Happy Birthday, Sue! Now picture the CF RE duo singing it properly. ;-D

Sue!! Have a great day and celebrate tonight!

And, now for the boring (but heartfelt) version: Happy Birthday! Many returns of the day. It certainly shouldn't be hard to find presents to buy for yourself these days. :-)

Moon, I taped the original Insomnia last night (the 2am as I didn't realize until AFTER Buffy, that it was on); am interested to see it. Coincindence that I just found out from reading Karen that "Insomnia" is a re-make! (but Stellan Staargard is in it, and well, I really like him!) :) Happy Birthday, Sue!!!!!

(but Stellan Staargard is in it, and well, I really like him!) :) And he is excellent as usual. Let us know what you think, Laura. OTT, don't you think that lesbian thing on Buffy is totally uneccesary? Do we really need to see that those two want to kiss and stay in bed and naked as much as possible? I know you let Rebecca watch. What is this telling young girls? Go out and experiment with your girlfriends, it's cool. This world is so screwed up!

Lots of write-ups about the opening of the TFF in the press, but I thought this one the best, from Fox News: DeNiro, Hugh Grant Save Tribeca Last night, the first Tribeca Film Festival kicked off with a fine new comedy, About a Boy, starring Hugh Grant. You can thank Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal and Usama bin Laden for this festival. It was created in the aftermath of September 11 to help revitalize the neighborhood around the World Trade Center. And I can tell you that it's worked already. Just walking toward the Tribeca Performing Arts Center last night, you could see life has returned to this shell-shocked neighborhood. The twin towers are missing but the people are back, largely due to the efforts of De Niro and Rosenthal. Earlier in the day, Mayor Mike Bloomberg welcomed De Niro, Rosenthal, Bill Clinton, Nelson Mandela and a bunch of celebrities to City Hall for the kick-off. Hugh Grant is still getting ribbed for using the word "buttocks" in his speech in front of Mandela. The screenings of About a Boy, directed by the Weitz brothers, took up two theaters in the shadow of Ground Zero, and drew hundreds of people to the Tribeca neighborhood. After the screening, revelers were taken on double decker buses over to the Regent Wall Street ballroom, recently the site of Liza Minnelli's crazy wedding, for a celebrity-packed party. Among the stars were Billy Joel, Billy Crystal, Chazz Palminteri, Kevin Spacey and Helen Hunt, as well as Grant, the Weitzes, Nora Ephron and a clutch of New York boldfaced names. De Niro made a quick appearance at the reception, but Grant stayed and took pictures with fans. He even accepted proposals from various young women. Grant politely told one blonde who'd worked her way up to him, "Thank you for the invitation, but I don't have much of a life right now. I just go to work, come home, sleep and go back to work." [Ed note: No name, hometown or age. It can be done.] He's been filming a new comedy with Sandra Bullock around New York. Grant did make plans to play golf with actor Kyle MacLachlan, however, and gossiped for a few minutes with Ben Chaplin about their nightclubbing plans for later in the evening. Indeed, the whole gang moved on to Bungalow 8 for an after hours retreat. Grant is overwhelmingly polite in person. When we were finally introduced he said, "If I'd known you were a journalist I would have been nicer to you." He declined to comment on Elizabeth Hurley and Steven Bing's paternity issues, though. "We can't go down that road," he said. He said that making About a Boy had been "hard work" and that, since he made the film about a single man who faces a crossroads, he was determined to have a child "by the end of June." Hadn't the movie aroused paternalfeelings in him, I wondered? "Yes, I'm very aroused now," he quipped.

Moon, e-mail me at lauram34@attbi.com

HG is v. witty. Thanks Boss.

Thanks to all for the birthday greetings. It was a nice surprise esp. since birthdays are getting harder to face each year. :-))

It would appear that the Argentinian film Nine Queens is finally making its way across the country. I saw it last year at our FF and it's excellent. Moreover, there was a certain irony in that Mamet's The Heist was the big gala opening film here in his old hometown, but this little film out-Mameted Mamet's by miles. Here's the opening from Ebert's review today: Fabian Bielinsky's "Nine Queens" is a con within a con within a con. There comes a time when we think we've gotten to the bottom, and then the floor gets pulled out again and we fall another level. Since nothing is as it seems (it doesn't even seem as it seems), watching the film is like observing a chess game in which all of the pieces are in plain view but one player has figured out a way to cheat. "David Mamet might kill for a script as good," Todd McCarthy writes in Variety. True, although Mamet might also reasonably claim to have inspired it; the set-up owes something to his "House of Games," although familiarity with that film will not help you figure out this one.

I just read that the following films recently tanked: Human Nature, Crushed,and Stolen Summer (the HBO series). Very discouraging for small indies. Wonder what the percentage is that make it.

And... Anybody see HG on the Letterman Show...(yeah, I stayed up!) He was v. funny. Impersonation of Robt. De Niro hilarious. He sorta takes over. Takes the ball and runs.Dave just sat back and laughed. I can see why Dave would like him on.

There's a reason for this. From Cindy Adams' column: The set of "Le Divorce," the film that marks the 40th year of producer Ismail Merchant and director James Ivory's work together, was high-class, high-toned, high-quality organized chaos. Kate Hudson had to reshoot because they had to relight because a glass door near her reflected the camera. Matthew Modine worried that the dark dye they spritzed on his hair would run down his face in an upcoming rain scene. Somebody worried, has anyone heard from Glenn Close? Nobody had. Somebody worried, does anyone know where's Bebe Neuwirth? Somebody said she's back in Paris. That somebody was me. She'd returned from her one day in New York on my same Concorde flight. And then there was that business of the catering van - ovens, pans, vegetables and all - being stolen and a crew of 60 needing lunch. That's not to mention the flat in the Marais district, which was the setting for the home of Naomi Watts' character. This real apartment with the real john which the film's real people were using has a real problem. No toilet paper. "Le Divorce," Diane Johnson's 1997 Dutton best seller about a divorcing husband found murdered, his body tossed in a trash bin, was to star Winona Ryder, but, as you may have heard, Winona was busted starring in her own homemade drama about a shoplifter. Its other stars are Stockard Channing, Sam Waterston, Leslie Caron and the gorgeous young Frenchman Melvil Poupaud, whose death scene was about to be filmed and who said to me at lunch: "I go now to be dead. I aftair see you again." [Ed note: And this is the part we all thought Colin would have.] Following such as "Jefferson in Paris," with Nick Nolte, and "The Proprietor," with Jeanne Moreau, "Le Divorce" is Merchant-Ivory's eighth film shot here. With a permanent office and permanent apartment in Paris, they are obviously at home with cultural differences, like the shout "Coupez" instead of "cut" at the conclusion of each take. But differences there are. In Hollywood, skinny health-conscious actresses do leaves for lunch, plus Evian. Here, the cafe commandeered by the production office served pork chops in gravy with fried potatoes. Another lunch served breaded veal cutlet laying in spaghetti. It's alternative? Ox tail with mashed potatoes. And shove the Evian. The table had a pitcher of tap water, a jug of red wine and everybody smoking. One crew member with a Yankee accent sighed: "Man, do I ever need a tuna on rye." And everybody's a hyphenate. I met a Jean-Claude, Jean-Pierre, Jean-Marc, Jean-Phillipe, Jean-Marie, Jean-Georges, and Jean somebody else. And all the props were schlepped in shopping bags that said Hermes or Vuitton. And what do movie folk talk about on a set? Kate Hudson said, before she was famous, before she made "Almost Famous" she had to reintroduce herself to people who didn't recall having met her. These same faces now tell her how talented and beautiful she is. That's why, she claims, she might live in New York, but never Hollywood. Australia's Naomi Watts who "loves living in Hollywood" arrived in Paris underweight "so every morning I eat bread and chocolate and at 11 I have another snack of a baguette with cheese." Matthew Modine: "I have a cell phone that you can type messages on. Unfortunately, it's French and has spell check. I type in English and the thing corrects in French so all my messages get screwed up." Bebe Neuwirth: "My boyfriend's with me and he's never been to France. My part isn't big, so we're having a wonderful experience enjoying Paris. Please don't let Ismail know I'm having such a good time." Ismail, who said movie execs "fainted" at his low $13 million budget, said : "I must find a way to cut Bebe's salary." Stockard Channing: "When James Ivory asked did I want to do this in Paris, I said, �Please . . . can we leave now?' " James Ivory told us his father worked for Thomas Edison in Edison's New Jersey laboratory: "Workers who had any creative ideas had to push them through a slot in Edison's door. He'd then patent them as his own. The workers never got any money or income. Edison wasn't an inventor. He was a marketer." When time came for me to say goodbye, Ismail patted me on the cheek. And left ink marks all over me. He'd used his palm to write notes.

Funny tidbits, thanks, Karen. Edison wasn't an inventor. He was a marketer." Bad points for Ivory. Human Nature is excellent. Please rent it when it becomes available. Anybody see HG on the Letterman Show... I did too, Evelyn. He was a good guest. Liked the line that he attracts the 60's and above and Bob the 20's and above. I have never seen anyone so out there to plug a movie (AAB). Usually guests are nonchalant about showing the clips and not sure of what they would be seeing. HG wanted to show it and was very prepared.

I missed the beginning of Hugh, as I was checking out Kiefer on Leno. But Hugh never fails to amuse. You have to give it to him. He's a great guest on these shows.

(Evelyn) He sorta takes over. Takes the ball and runs.Dave just sat back and laughed. That is precisely what all of them are supposed to to. The producer calls and finds out what humorous antecdotes the star wants to tell and then writes down the questions Dave is supposed to ask to get the story started. Dave likes to mix it up and sometimes asks something off the wall but, when the star can figure out which antecdote Dave is asking about it works. It shouldn't be that hard for professionals - the writers will make it humorous if the star can't. Tom Cruise finally survived the ordeal; now I'd like to see ODB in the hot seat!

From Ananova: Gwyneth Paltrow's West End debut has been hailed as a triumph with one critic describing her performance as "almost flawless". The actress took to the stage in the play Proof at London's Donmar Warehouse. She is the latest in a long line of A-list stars to choose British theatre over big-budget Hollywood movies. Paltrow, 29, plays the daughter of a mentally disturbed mathematical genius in the production directed by John Madden, with whom she worked on the film Shakespeare in Love. The official first night, when critics will get the chance to rate Paltrow's performance, is not until next week. But one who caught last night's preview said that the star: "turned in a performance almost flawless in its delivery - and demonstrated that the comic timing she showed in Shakespeare in Love was no fluke". The Evening Standard's Valentine Low said that Paltrow put in a particularly fine acting performance with her feet, managing "to use her toes to express annoyance, frustration, unhappiness and a whole range of emotions that some actresses cannot manage with their faces, let alone their feet." Paltrow's mother, the actress Blythe Danner, was at last night's show. Paltrow last appeared on stage in The Seagull in Williamstown, Massachusetts opposite her at the age of 21.

Mari, thanks for the background on RE (on topic 162). I can't think of a way to continue my point though, without sounding arrogant and prejudiced towards two fabulous actors I don't know personally. I guess their comments hit a chord: as a blue-collar girl I ended up in a school full of sons of French aristocrats, diplomats, and chateaux owners and learned to dig my heels! :0 Just another question about that quote: what does "red-brick" mean in the RE quote "red-brick guitar-playing communist"?

(Odile) Just another question about that quote: what does "red-brick" mean in the RE quote "red-brick guitar-playing communist"? Don't know if it means the same thing over there but down here "red brick" usually refers to the age and, to a snobbish extent - the pedigree, of the university one attends. As in "Red bricks" compared to "Ivy League" - ie the "red bricks" are newer buildings that still show the red brick as against the "ivy league" universities - usually prestigious reputation from tradition, achievements etc - whose buildings are now covered with ivy due to age.

Interesting. Thanks Minkee!

In the UK redbricks are all the older civic universities which are not Oxbridge. When they were filming AC it would have been everything apart from Oxford and Cambridge. Is not usually a prejorative comment per se; may say more about RE's attitudes than any thing. Re RE. I cannot remember which school he went to but recall that it was one of the top Catholic boys public schools. I think his father was a senior army officer, though might have that wrong. Very establishment compared with CF. Poor young Colin straight out of the trendy Drama Centre would have probably been very intimidated!

Everett went to Ampleforth with Julian Wadham and Michael Maloney. Michael hated it.

"to use her toes to express annoyance, frustration, unhappiness and a whole range of emotions that some actresses cannot manage with their faces, let alone their feet." That should go straight to her portfolio. LOL! It might make Hollywood start awards for "Best use of body parts" to express your feelings. ;-) Re RE. I cannot remember which school he went to but recall that it was one of the top Catholic boys public schools. That must why he's so close with Madonna. ;-)

Reminder everyone, Inside the Actor's Studio with Huge will be on Sunday night. I caught a preview snippet. Great answer to the "dislike" question at the end. ;-D

(RE) (Colin seemed a) red-brick guitar-playing communist. I think this speaks to Colin losing himself in a character. The whole time RE saw him he was Tommy Judd and the description fits. Powerful actor who can fool his co-stars like that! I, for one, am convinced he is Mr. Darcy. ;-)

Shouldn't RE create a band with CF on guitar, himself on piano and Madonna on vocals? Now what should they call themselves? The Pond Hoppers? :)

A much belated Happy Birthday, Sue.

To all the Mothers on Drool : Enjoy your day and let yourself be spoilt! Do not get up...wait for that breakfast in bed and continue to dream on...

How about that? Finally learned how to put up an image! Yay!

If Rosie O'Donnell's last show is May 22, when will Carolyn Rhea start? Anybody know.

Moved from 162, KateF's post: If anyone noticed that Huge was on Actor's Studio last night, don't worry if you missed it. I watched the whole thing waiting for them to get to BJD, but absolutely no reference to Colin (just the same tired thing about Renee's accent--Princess Margaret, the stroke voice, etc). I suppose if they've had Huge on, they won't invite Colin--don't want two Brits in close succession? It was just filmed recently, too, as Lipton mentioned that he and his students had gone to see AAB. No mention of the Tribeca ff either. I had hopes for Actor's Studio this visit. :-(( Saw Simon Callow's "Mystery of Charles Dickens" yesterday afternoon. Hung over the rail of 1st row Mezz, scanning the orchestra seats just in case, but no luck. I thought maybe he'd blow off a rainy NY afternoon to see a fellow Brit thesp. (am pathetic and desperate, I know) Oh, well, at least there'll be Breakfast on the 19th!

OOOh, I just saw PROOF with Jennifer Jason Leigh... I liked it a lot, but I can't see GP playing that role. (However, JJL, was a bit old for it as well, but was good!!!) Fantastic story!

(Kate) (just the same tired thing about Renee's accent--Princess Margaret, the stroke voice, etc). Didn't you want to scream? I tried, but was too busy trying to keep myself from being sucked into the sucking vortex of Jim and Hugh sucking up to eachother. And Evelyn, Huge's constant face pulling made CF's SiL BWTA interview look like a minor itch. ;-)

Will add quickly before the lights go out (we seem to be having yet another thunderstorm) that I thought HG was LOL-funny throughout most of the first half hour. He does a good deadpan. However, either HG was playing the actor HG during the interview or his performances aren't very far from his true self. BTW, Newsweek's David Ansen liked AAB very much (then he trashed Star Wars).

Will add yet again (sorry!) that I was quite disappointed that HG did not respond to the questionnaire part at the end as follows: JL: Hugh, what is your least-favorite word? HG: Divine. *tsk* ;-)

(Eileen) I thought HG was LOL-funny throughout most of the first half hour. Hey, I thought the whole thing was incredibly entertaining. They could've cut the cutsey bits between Lipton and Hugh was worthless fawning but still how many other actors would've had the nerve to make fun of the foundation of the Actors Studio (you all sit around and cry, don't you?) Divine! LOL!

LOL, Eileen! But I agree with Karen. He also put Lipton down more than any other guest I've ever seen.

Sort of and O&E-- Saw AAB. There is an editing goof in the Christmas Day scene. I won't say, being that some of you haven't seen it yet. (Just a silly thing.)

AAB getting rave reviews all over the place. USA Today (about as national a paper as we have)gave it a two page spread. Interviews with HG & big photo, Toni Collette, the Weitz Brothers and a review of the film. 3 1/2 stars out of 4. ".....About a Boy is a rarity in many ways. It's a well-written , witty film whose memorable characters grapple with the nature of family, love, friendship and despair. Even its soundtrack, by Badly Drawn Boy is perfectly pitched. In a summer of daring superheroes and intergalactic spectacles, its a pleasure to see a film that doesn't need special effects to be emotionally affecting." NH must be ecstatic. Allison, they don't mention that HG isn't representative of a N. Londoner;-)

(Evelyn) AAB getting rave reviews all over the place. Even Crosswinds ariticle I quoted on 162. ....About A Boy Hugh Grant plays an irresponsible cad who, in a convoluted attempt to meet women, befriends a 12-year-old boy in need of a father figure.... Couldn't help but notice she used "convoluted" for both AAB and TIOBE. :-) Spiderman - "an entertaining ride"; Stars Wars was dissed and Disney's The Country Bears (TCB)was unworthy of being written about. I guess that puts TIOBE somewhere behind Spiderman but ahead of TCB.:-) Karen, I hope my humble offering counts as a contribution to the content of Drool. It's hard to be a team player out here in left field. ;-)

Just got back from seeing AAB. I found it funny and entertaining. Not quite hilarious and heartwarming. I thought HG was good, but I liked his Daniel Cleaver better. Definitely an alternative to everything else out there right now. The audience loved it. Plenty of Joe and Josephine's there.

Allison, they don't mention that HG isn't representative of a N. Londoner;-) Okay I'll get back into my box :-( My 23 year-old son enjoyed it BTW.

The two televised review shows loved AAB as well. Roeper could barely be contained. He said it was not only the best movie he had seen this year, but for several years. (Note: He's precisely the right age to appreciate it.) Many critics have been saying it's the best film out this year and are giving indications they'd put it on their lists. What I've particularly enjoyed is that they are praising the "intelligent" script.

Actresses contemplate Hollywood pressures in new film Rosanna Arquette says she could have featured even more actresses in her new movie. Sharon Stone, Whoopi Goldberg, Meg Ryan and Holly Hunter are among those in Searching For Debra Winger. She revealed at the Cannes Film Festival there were many more who couldn't be used. Arquette's idea was to interview Hollywood's top actresses to discuss the pressures they face, particularly as they hit the age of 40. She was inspired by Winger, who effectively retired at the age of 39. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Speaking of which, did anybody watch the HBO thing on LBJ? Michael Gambon's accent didn't seem very Texan to me. Also, I had no idea that Lady Bird was probably about 30 yrs his junior. Sheesh, they have a nice, winkly older man playing Johnson, and then they have a much younger actress (Felicity Huffman) playing his wife. Are they afraid to have women of the right age playing those parts? Totally ridiculous. No matter how matronly they attempted to make her up, she barely looked older than her two grown daughters.

AAB BO $8.4 mil. Disappointing. "Unfaithful" is hanging in there at #3; real chick-flick too.I guess Richard Gere still grabs 'em. I'll try LBJ tomorrow night...but 3 hours????

Not disappointing at all! Far from it. It only played on 1/3 the screens of the biggies. The industry reporters deemed it "solid." That was $8.4 million on 1,200 screens. real chick-flick too.I guess Richard Gere still grabs 'em. It's probably the hot scenes between Olivier Martinez and Diane Lane. I keep hearing her performance is wonderful.

Here's the full article: Winger' Debates Aging in Hollywood By JOCELYN NOVECK, Associated Press Writer CANNES, France (AP) - So whatever happened to Debra Winger? As it happens, after three Oscar nominations, the star of "Urban Cowboy," "An Officer and a Gentleman" and "Terms of Endearment" basically retired seven years ago, at age 39. For fellow actress Rosanna Arquette, that fact was enough to launch a movie. Arquette decided to interview Hollywood's top actresses to discuss the pressures and limits they face, particularly as they hit the age of 40. Her goal was to figure out what drove Winger from the business. The result � "Searching for Debra Winger" � is interesting for the honest responses it evokes from women like Sharon Stone, Whoopi Goldberg, Meg Ryan, Holly Hunter, Jane Fonda and Melanie Griffith, among many others. But the film, which won an out-of-competition slot at the Cannes Film Festival, could be much better organized, and Arquette has a distracting habit of rambling when she herself is on camera. To make the film, Arquette says she just picked up the phone and called women she admired. "Nobody refused," she says, "and there were so many I couldn't use because we ran out of money." The actresses range from younger women like Gwyneth Paltrow, who clearly has no problems now ("I love my job!"), to older actresses already bitter and sometimes even struggling for money. Daryl Hannah, the erstwhile mermaid of "Splash," now 41, speaks of being cast as a mother. "People said, 'don't you mind?' But I was fine with it," Hannah says � until she was given ugly, baggy clothes to wear and an unattractive brown wig. Whoopi Goldberg engages in a comic riff about her expanding derriere, and also talks about the difficulty of finding a man to live with. "You end up supporting them (financially)," she says. She concludes succinctly: "Anybody who is not you, who is living with you, is a problem." Sharon Stone, on the other hand, now married and a mother, says that her life is much more fulfilling now than ever before. Then there's Jane Fonda, who tells how she quit the movie business 10 years ago � simply because on their second date, her now ex-husband Ted Turner told her she'd have to drop her career to be with him. She decided she "wouldn't regret 10 more movies or five more movies, but I was going to regret lack of intimacy." Then, however, Fonda goes into a wistful, tearful description of what she misses about acting � and one can't help regretting, for her, the choice that she made. Holly Hunter says the irony is that actresses are best in their 40s, just when the roles are dwindling. "Once I hit 40, I had chops as an actress that I didn't have when I was 30," she says, "and I want to use them." The actresses wax funny and bitter at the culture of plastic surgery in Hollywood. Tracey Ullman does an impression of how she'd look with enhanced lips. Frances McDormand, discovered by chance in a hotel bathroom, tells why she plans to remain surgery-free: One day they'll need an actress to play a 54-year-old, she reasons, and no actress will actually look 54 � so she'll have a corner on the market. Eventually, Arquette "finds" Winger. They sit in a backyard and discuss why Winger left � although she did make a brief comeback in a movie this year by husband Arliss Howard. The roles weren't there, Winger says, and she chose to take care of her kids. "Anybody who says having kids isn't a sacrifice is lying." As an example of her feelings about Hollywood, Winger, now 46, tells how when she was filming "An Officer and a Gentleman" in her 20s, the producer came to her trailer with an envelope. She hoped it was to compliment her. "You look a little bloated in the rushes," he said. The envelope contained a water retention pill. Diane Lane says she is so busy with career and motherhood that she doesn't have time for a man. Meg Ryan says she's never been happier, "and it's not about a guy." But French star Emanuelle Beart, beautiful even with messy hair and a cigarette in her mouth, seems to ooze melancholy when she muses that she dreams of "having a man come to take me and my children away."

"Unfaithful" is hanging in there at #3; real chick-flick too.I guess Richard Gere still grabs 'em. No, no, no, it's the cutie, Olivier Martinez. ;-) He was the Horseman on the Roof. (Have you seen that yet, Evelyn?) Frances McDormand, discovered by chance in a hotel bathroom, tells why she plans to remain surgery-free: One day they'll need an actress to play a 54-year-old, she reasons, and no actress will actually look 54 � so she'll have a corner on the market. LOL! She's a hoot! Lucky to have a hubby that can put her in films. ;-)

(E)"Unfaithful" is hanging in there at #3; real chick-flick too.I guess Richard Gere still grabs 'em. (Moon)No, no, no, it's the cutie, Olivier Martinez. ;-) He was the Horseman on the Roof. (Have you seen that yet, Evelyn?) Horseman on the Roof???Never even hoid of it. You think Olivier Martinez is the draw to hold that film at #3??

You think Olivier Martinez is the draw to hold that film at #3?? ] Hey, he's the father of Juliette Binoche's baby... (or young son); he's adorable and Horseman on the Roof is awesome! Definitely see it. (he and JB were together for a while)..

Hey, he's the father of Juliette Binoche's baby... No, wait, I thought that was the "My Left Foot" actor? (His name escapes me now). Olivier has been together with.. are you ready to fall down? Mira Sorvino. They have been living toigether in Paris. You must rent HotR, Evelyn. I've been raving about it for years, and you haven't heard of it? ;-)

(Laura)Hey, he's the father of Juliette Binoche's baby... (Moon)No, wait, I thought that was the "My Left Foot" actor? (His name escapes me now). Moon, I think you're refering to Daniel Day-Lewis, and he is the dad of Isabelle Adjani's baby I think (I don't know about JB).

closing tags

Thanks Odile, I confused her with Isabel. So Juliet must have fallen for him during the filming of HotR. Hell, I would have too. ;-)

Actually, I think Olivier and Juliette were together LONG before they filmed HoTR, her son is btw 4-6, I believe. They were a couple for a long time. (I haven't a clue how I know this, I must've read it somewhere). But hell, didn't know DDL was dad of Isabel Adjani's baby (or young son as he is married to Rebecca (I can't believe I can't remember her last name!!! and he's a local author!!!! ARGH!!!) MAILER!!!!;) no?

No, Miller. DDL is married to Arthur Miller's daughter. Info courtesy of this month's Playbill. One of the references was to parties where several actors who played the same part were to be found together. "Oklahoma!'s" original Laurie at its opening night party:, DDL accompanying his wife and father-in-law to the opening of "The Crucible" with the mention that he had played the John Proctor role in a film version. Had no idea 'til I read it who DDL's wife was.

This was what imdb has to say: Currently dating actress, Mira Sorvino Brother of Vincent Martinez The French tabloid press hotly pursued Olivier during and after the filming of Hussard sur le toit, Le (1995), speculating on a real romance between him and his co-star, Juliette Binoche; the couple threatened to sue one magazine that reported that Binoche was pregnant. (1998) Living with Juliette Binoche Olivier fought as a welterweight in Europe, taking after his father who had also been a pugilist. His Gallic mother was a secretary and his father worked as a mechanic. Then for Juliette Binoche: (September 1993) Son Rapha�l born. Father is Andre Halle, a professional scuba diver. Had a daughter, Hannah, with French actor Beno�t Magimel in 2000. (1999-present) Her companion is Beno�t Magimel

Well I guess that ends all the speculation...:)

Sorry to sound like an old fart, but . . . do any of these people think about getting married to the people they have babies with?? DDL has kids on 2 continents--as do others I could name.;-) BTW, his wife, Rebecca Miller, is a writer and filmmaker who really does make films--she won the top prize at Sundance this year.

For all your Frenz of the Enz: Neil Finn: IRVING PLAZA Friday, Jul 19 2002 8:00PM

Well, at least the "unnamed others" kept it down to only one! :*)

For all your Frenz of the Enz: Neil Finn: IRVING PLAZA Amy, count me among the frenz. I envy you, no enz. :) An *outstanding* live Finn CD, from a recent Australian show, can be had online at Miles Of Music, along with an ample supply of Ryan Adams, Whiskeytown, Townes VanZandt, and other such artists mentioned lately by people of (ahem!) apparently discerning musical tastes.

Thanks for the info--there is also a website (jane music i think, i'll have to check) where you can download live NF shows etc... (I am always encouraged to hear that NF has this sort of underground popularity--sort of like CF, so I guess it can be related in an abstract sort of way and, they do have the same last initial, so therefore can occasionally be mentioned here? whew...one long sentence!) I feel so guilty! :)

From MOVIELINE June issue No more Tom Cruise for Cold Mountain.... It will star ex-Nicole Kidman, RZ, and Jude Law! Also a "redo of Alfred Hitchcock 's 'Strangers on a Train' with Heath Ledger as the caddish tennis player, and Jude Law the psycho".[ Ed. How many children does JL have;-))] Talking about "good notices about HG and Sandra Bullock's legal comedy in "Two Weeks Notice" [I thought they were still shooting that one ]. "Now comes word that he may costar ,with the brilliant Emma Thompson, in" Love Actually" , which will be the directorial debut of Richard Curtis. ...Grant will play the British prime minister, and if all goes welll, Thompson will play his sister."[ Ed. Doesn't sound like a comedy.But with RC ....]

Evelyn - wasn't there a quote from HG after Sense and Sensibility that he will not ever want to work with Emma Thompson again? From the supreme triviality of TIOBE to the other end of the spectrum - comes this yahoo news bit from Cannes...makes me shudder... Moon - it sounds like this director employed C Nolan's chronology device a la Memento. Cannes VIPs Walk Out on 'Irreversible' Violence Friday May 24 8:36 PM ET Special guests walked out of the official screening of director Gaspar Noe's "Irreversible" at Cannes early on Saturday as the violent and sexually explicit film sent shockwaves through the festival. Following a walkout by audience members at a critics screening on Thursday, guests invited to Friday's gala presentation, screened after midnight as opposed to the usual 8:00 p.m. or 10:00 p.m., started leaving within 10 minutes. "It's disturbing and incredibly violent," Todd Rubenstein, an entertainment lawyer from Los Angeles, told Reuters as he left the auditorium. "Not just the graphic violence and the language but the disorienting camera work made my stomach churn." Medics treated a woman after she stumbled out feeling "nauseous," a doorman at the main Lumiere theater said. "It was too aggressive, too violent," said Pascal Gentil, a Tae Kwon Do medallist for France at the Sydney Olympics (news - web sites), as he left with a companion after 15 minutes. "When I see a film like that I find it hard to imagine what people must have inside them that they are able to make such a thing. I found it sickening." Examining a drug-crazed man's violent pursuit of revenge against a twisted pimp he believes is responsible for raping and disfiguring his girlfriend, the film is undeniably shocking and disturbing. The script consists almost entirely of expletives directed against homosexuals and women, and a scene in which Italian actress Monica Bellucci is raped lasts a horrifying 10 minutes. Shown anti-chronologically -- the violent conclusion first followed by sequences taking the viewer back through events -- the film delivers a stomach-churning opening punch set in "Rectum," a sado-masochist gay club. "DON'T LIKE? DON'T GO" Franco-Argentine Noe leapt to the defense of his film at a news conference on Friday saying it was just a movie and people didn't have to see it if they didn't want to. "If people don't want to see it, that's fine. I have walked out of films too. It's not every day that you want to see this kind of thing," Noe, 38, told a packed and sometimes heated news conference. "I have made a film that I like and that is that. If people want to talk about scandal, that is for them." After critics had described the film as "sick," "gratuitous" and "brutal" at the end of Thursday's screening, local newspapers called it the scandal of the festival. National tabloid Aujourd'hui urged readers to boycott the film. But the director, who calls himself "an image fetishist," said the alarm was overblown. One of his actors, Frenchman Vincent Cassel, said Cannes was trying to create a furor. "We have done nothing to create scandal," said Cassel, who is married to Bellucci in real life and plays her boyfriend in the movie. "Cannes has tried to create a scandal because perhaps Cannes needs a scandal." While the director and actors tried calmly to justify the film to the press during the news conference, they said they expected an uneasy reception at the late-night screening. "When you make a movie like this you have to expect a tough response," said Cassel. "If everybody liked it then I would find that really weird." "Irreversible" is one of 22 films competing for the coveted Palme d'Or prize at Cannes.

Benoit Magimel (the father of Juliette Binoche's baby) is very very HOT (she knows how to pick them)! He was in the Piano Player (with Isabelle Huppert) and I think he might have gotten the Best Actor Award at the European Film Awards for that performance. He met JB on the set of Les Enfants du Siecle (Not to be missed -- the stormy relationship between George Sand and Alfred de Musset). JB seems to fall for her co-stars -- she had met Olivier Martinez on the set of Le Hussard sur le toit!

I remember Benoit Magimel as a child star on "La vie est un long fleuve tranquille" (Life is a long, quiet river) which is a satirical comedy about life in Paris suburbia. It follows the lives of two families, one poor and vulgar, the other bourgeois and neat, and their forced meeting when it is discovered that two of their kids were exchanged at birth. Despite having no big name actors and 1st-time directors, the movie was a great hit in France and BM was definitely singled out as one reason why the film worked.

(Minkee) Evelyn - wasn't there a quote from HG after Sense and Sensibility that he will not ever want to work with Emma Thompson again? I never read that; I think they are personal friends.

(Minkee), Moon - it sounds like this director employed C Nolan's chronology device a la Memento. "Cannes has tried to create a scandal because perhaps Cannes needs a scandal." LOL! Cannes has shown very bad taste in recent years with the films the select, this would not surprise me at all. If people are so shocked from those films, then why are they so liberal when it comes to punishing criminals? They are so hypocritical. I think people should be making films that transcend our reality, that gives us hope and sends us on a spiritual voyage. But who is making films like that? Can they even get the funding for it?

Benoit Magimel is very easy on the eyes, Odile. Il est plut�t craquant, non?

http://www.the-movie-times.com/thrsdir/actors.mv?actors+ByAG Interesting web site of actors--sorted by box office, etc. Rupert Everett is on the list, but... :-(

Sounds like fun... ;-D Eric Idle to direct Merchant-Ivory spoof Eric Idle is to direct a film parody of British period dramas. The Remains Of The Piano will star Geoffrey Rush, who shot to fame in the film Shine. Idle's spoof on Merchant-Ivory films will be shot in Toronto this summer. The former Monty Python star told the Toronto Sun: "It's a p**s-take on the genre. "It's got everything a Merchant-Ivory film has: lovely costumes, lovely sets and lovely English acting. "It's all set to go if producer Garth Drabinsky can ever find the final missing million. There's always a million missing in independent film. Somebody said trying to raise money for independent films is like trying to herd dogs."

Doubtful that any of these would involve Colin, but I thought the last bit was interesting: Political intrigue is essential to another new BBC drama about New Labour's rise to power, The Project. The drama revolves around the careers of four political activists, charting New Labour's political dominance and election victory in 1997. The two-parter is written by Leigh Jackson, who scripted Warriors and Other People's Children. It is directed by Peter Kosminsky, whose previous work includes Warriors and Shoot to Kill. The film uses fictional characters who appear within a factual setting, from early days at Labour's Millbank headquarters through to Downing Street. "This film is about idealistic young people who want to help Labour get into power and, ultimately, change things," said Mr Kosminsky. "It is a realistic portrayal of how we got to May 1, 1997, and what happened afterwards." A third political drama is planned called State of Play, Paul Abbott's thriller set in Whitehall about the death of a young intern who was having an affair with a Labour minister. The Key, by Donna Franceschild, will examine the history of socialism and the trade union movement in Scotland over the past century, through the eyes of three generations of a Glasgow family.

Give it up Donna. Talk about running DQ to the ground. Someone please give the girl a case of Dom Perignon and Iranian caviar. ;-)

(Minkee) Evelyn - wasn't there a quote from HG after Sense and Sensibility that he will not ever want to work with Emma Thompson again? (Evelyn)I never read that; I think they are personal friends. When HG was on "Actor's Studio" he was asked about making S&S and his fondness for changing dialogue. Grant says he likes to do a bunch of takes that follow the script, and then a few more in which he messes around with dialogue. I don't remember the exact response to the question on "Actor's Studio" but I think he said Emma was a bit of a queen about her words, and that she didn't like it if he changed things. So maybe if it isn't HER script, he'll be happy to work with her again. But...HG as PM????????????????

So Hugh and Sandra, true love/advertising trick?

Happy Birthday to Rupert Everett! Starting our Gemini countdown. :-)

Who else is/are Gemini(s)...besides me? HA :)

Hollywood's Smart Films Faring Well Wed May 29, 3:51 PM ET By DAVID GERMAIN, AP Movie Writer Brains are accompanying brawn on the big screen this summer. Along with "Spider-Man," "Star Wars" and other mammoth action movies, Hollywood's busy season brings an unusually healthy crop of smarter films for older adults to balance the popcorn flicks aimed mainly at viewers in their teens and 20s. Counter-programming such films during the youth-oriented summer is standard Hollywood practice to keep baby boomers theater-bound. What's different this year is how steadily those films are coming and how well they're clicking with audiences. A major new adult release has arrived each of the last three weekends: the adultery thriller "Unfaithful," starring Richard Gere and Diane Lane; the Hugh Grant romantic comedy "About a Boy"; and the edgy crime drama "Insomnia," with Al Pacino and Robin Williams. Each has scored with adults 25 and older, drawing solid business in a movie market dominated by blockbusters "Spider-Man" and "Star Wars: Episode II � Attack of the Clones." "Insomnia" debuted last weekend with a robust $26.1 million, while "Unfaithful" and "About a Boy" opened well and have held up strongly in subsequent weekends. "There's been room for a lot of different kinds of films that are specifically directed toward different audiences," said Jeff Blake, head of distribution and marketing for Sony, which released "Spider-Man." "It seems like the blockbusters have expanded the market enough to let these other films do quite nicely." Another higher-minded film, an adaptation of Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest," debuted strongly in limited release last weekend. Also coming this summer are "Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood," an ensemble women's film featuring Sandra Bullock, Ellen Burstyn, Ashley Judd and Maggie Smith; Nicolas Cage's "Windtalkers," about Navajo code-men during World War II; a new three-hour cut of the beloved Italian film "Cinema Paradiso"; the brainy Sundance Film Festival comedy hit "Tadpole," with Sigourney Weaver; Steven Soderbergh's pseudo-sequel to "sex, lies and videotape," "Full Frontal," featuring Julia Roberts and David Duchovny; and "Road to Perdition," from "American Beauty" director Sam Mendes, a 1930s Irish-American mob tale with Tom Hanks, Paul Newman and Jude Law. "Here's a film that you would normally expect to see toward the end of the year. I'm happy the studio feels confident to let the movie stand on its own two feet in the middle of summer," Mendes said. Steven Spielberg, whose DreamWorks studio backed "American Beauty" and "Road to Perdition," teams with Tom Cruise on "Minority Report," a hybrid of action and ideas. Cruise plays a cop of the future accused of a murder he has yet to commit by a psychic police corps that arrests people before they carry out their crimes. "It's that rarest and best combination � big, summer, popcorn fun � but it's also about something," said Tom Rothman, studio co-chairman for 20th Century Fox, which is distributing "Minority Report" and also released "Unfaithful." Adult-oriented films such as "Unfaithful," "Insomnia" and "About a Boy" rarely rise to blockbuster status. But they are far cheaper to make and market than a $120 million behemoth such as "Spider-Man," so they can become solidly profitable even in a summer crowded with explosive action and dumb comedy. "There's a huge market available for good, solid, adult entertainment," said Dan Fellman, head of distribution for Warner Bros., which made "Insomnia." "Good movies rise to the occasion. It's as simple as that."

(Amy), Who else is/are Gemini(s)...besides me? HA :) There are a lot of us here. When is you day, Amy? Happy Birthday to Lucie and Cathey today!

Well Moon, since you asked (thanks ;)...June 17. Who else here, may I ask? I found this posted on an msn board. I don't know how accurate it is but found it disheartening all the same. (Possibly its author is a 'poster' here too?): "I contacted [Empire Online} about lack of new info on TIOBE and look at the strange respone I got. Dear Michele, I'm presuming it's TIOBE you're refering to--the reason it's not on our site at the moment, is that for one thing it comes out much later in the UK (6 September) and the other is that it's an absolutely abysmal film!! As a Firth fan myself, I feel your pain, but I also feel it my duty to warn you of this film's utter direness. Catherine Empire Online"Õ

On http://www.videoeta.com/month_video.html?month=10&year=2002&from=53318 It lists TIOBE for video release in October (along with AAB). Not so far away, really?.

(Amy)...it's an absolutely abysmal film!! As a Firth fan myself, I feel your pain, but I also feel it my duty to warn you of this film's utter direness... I saw that too and thought it was a tad harsh. I mean it has some problems, but really! Is this the tone we should expect from the UK critics? Did you notice on that board also they had written letters to Colin directly in case he reads their posts? They are interesting! Should we all write Oliver Parker or whoever puts together the DVD to make sure they put in as many outtakes and extras with Colin as possible to rectify the egregious error of putting virtually nothing of him in the BJD extras? (That was actually going to be one of my panel comments). Who and where does one write to about that? Anyone, anyone? Happy B-day all Gemini's from a Capricorn!!

(Dorine) Is this the tone we should expect from the UK critics? Expect worse. Catherine is only the online editor for Empire and isn't even a reviewer. Who and where does one write to about that? Anyone, anyone? You can start with your buddy OP in care of Fragile Films 97 Dean Street London W1 England Ultimately though, it will be the same fools who put out the below standard BJD DVD at Miramorons. :-(

And a very happy birthday from me, too. :-)

(Nice work (above) Karen!) Karen--when do they actually put together the dvd? I mean, are they aready created, waiting to be released or later and done via response to the actor(s) and the film?

Gawd, Karen, so there is going to be a whole round of bashing coming from the UK. Oh Boy. This, from another Gemini!!!!!!!

Have a very happy birthday, Lucie and Cathey. Hope your dreams are firthy and your champagne is frothy :-)!

Hope your dreams are firthy and your champagne is frothy :-)! That was vvg, Lora! Lisa, when is your day? Rock on! BTW, it's Marcia's turn tomorrow.

it's Marcia's turn tomorrow This is true! Are we going to drag her away from Geo and back to Drool for the day to celebrate? :-D Happy, Happy Birthday Lucie & Cathey!!

Thanks Moon, Lora, S.B and especially Karen. Thats the best birthday card I've ever seen, HAPPY BIRTHDAY Marcia.

age makes me forget to close tag

Minkee's message reposted I've counted 6 Geminians so far, is that right? Lucie, Cathey, Marcia, Amy, Moon, Lisa Happy Happy Birthday to all! I'm the seventh

Actually, there's one more: Lizza (who is currently offline with home computer problems)

Bad time for Lizza to be offline. :-( Lucie, Cathey, Marcia, Amy, Moon, Lisa, Minkee, Lizza, KJ. And Heide, who does not post regularly anymore. We must also count Rupie, as he is such a part of us. ;-)

If anyone in NYC wants to check out a film that Colin recommended, "L'Ultimo Bacio" (The Last Kiss) is part of the Film Society of Lincoln Center's annual Open Roads: New Italian Cinema series, which kicks off today and runs through June 12. "L'Ultimo Bacio" (The Last Kiss) was a 2002 Sundance audience award winner.

If you like whinning soap operas by all means go see "L'Ultimo Bacio." Poor Colin.

Dear Marcia, since you seem to have lost interest in CF, I thought I might introduce myself. :-D Happy Birthday, Marcia!

Did anyone catch RE on R&K today? He mentioned his next project was a remake of Dangerous Liaisons....and said there were a number of versions (didn't mention Valmont). He was quite funny!. Happy Birthday to all fellow Geminis. (are geminis the original bunburyists?)

Happy birthday, Lucie, Cathey and Marcia!

GEMINIS ROCK Whats a bunburyists? If that is anything negative at all (esp bits that pertain to bums) then it does not apply to Geminis. I have other bits on my mind.

Whats a bunburyists? Clever definition for twin/double personality/personae. We can take it in a positive way. Mine would be my thing with CF. It is a total secret to the outside world. ;-D

(Moon)Mine would be my thing with CF. It is a total secret to the outside world. I think that just about says it all for most of here. v.positive, indeed.

Yes exactly--normal seeming by day...cf secretly by internet... (No offense meant, would not speak negatively about my own sign! :^) )

Any of you Geminis have your birthday today? It's the third of June, the day Billy Joe McAllister jumped off the Tallahachee Bridge. (I have a friend who emails me on important days like this, so I thought I'd pass it along.)

HBO has set 9 p.m. July 21 as the new time for what promises to be one of the biggest TV events of the summer: the season premiere of Emmy-winning comedy "Sex and the City" The cable network had been set to bow a fresh batch of 13 episodes of "Sex" this month, but that plan went out the window following series star Sarah Jessica Parker's announcement that she was pregnant. Production was halted for a few weeks; HBO execs decided in April to cut the number of episodes in the upcoming season to eight from 13. With "Six Feet Under" having wrapped its second season Sunday, HBO will fill the 9 p.m. slot for the next few weeks with repeats from "Sex's" recent winter "mini-season." The upcoming "Sex" episodes will culminate in the show's fourth season finale on Sept. 8. The next week, Sept. 15, HBO will bow the much-anticipated season premiere of "The Sopranos" at 9 p.m., followed by the season premieres of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and "Mind of a Married Man" at 10 and 10:30 p.m., respectively.

Good review of "The Last Kiss" in the NY Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2002/05/31/movies/31CHOI.html

Thanks Karen. This film sounds like one Miramax would have picked up on the cheap on Sundance. Think ODB came into NYC with "The Produceress"for the Italian FF?

Think ODB came into NYC with "The Produceress"for the Italian FF? Why do say that, Evelyn?

Lizza, Lizza, Lizza! Happy Birthday! I hope to see you back here very soon. (This is when DB and Rupie break into "Lady Come Down". :-D

Lizza's bday is on the 7th, but I'm sure the serenade will keep until then. ;-D

(E)Think ODB came into NYC with "The Produceress"for the Italian FF? (Moon)Why do say that, Evelyn? I dunno. I guess because he was on the Jon Stewart Show last night and someone said it was live & the Italian FF is going on at Lincoln Center. I'll call Lizza on the 7th and tell her to get to a computer for her b'day.

Jon Stewart's show is taped in late afternoon, but Colin's interview was done weeks ago.

Just a short aside re: one I wish we would see here more often; to wit: Hope you have a wonderful day. KJ

Happy Birthday Lizza and Heidi

Shall be away on the 7th, so early Happy Birthday wishes to Lizza, hope to see you at the Uk TIOBE Premiere, and Happy Birthday Wishes too to Heide, a lovely lady who I had the pleasure to meet a few years ago. Happy Birthday Wishes to Lizza & Heide, from wet & windy UK, still smiling though after a wonderful weekend of Jubilee Celebrations

Nice to be back just in time for bday celebrations - Happy Birthday Lizza & Heide

Just in case you happen to peak in...... HAPPY BIRTHDAY LIZZA We miss ya':-(((

Lizza, the boys are still playing "Lady come down" for you. Hint, hint. ;-D Happy Birthday!

A couple of oldies but goodies in honor of Lizza's big day: For those who may not be aware, Lizza is the proud keepmistress over that whisk. Back later with more. :-)

LOL. Haven't seen that shower scene in a looong time. Whew!Do I see a navel peaking out ? Hey, boss. whyda' cut the pic off at the strategic point;-))))

Happy Birthday Lizza and Heidi.

from KJ

How did you do that KJ? For the brain dead like me - is there an easy way to do that fancy writing here. I don't think that's in Ann's html primer, is it?

Yes, it is. That is called Changing the Text Font, but you need to know font names. http://austen.com/tutorial/index.html#textfont

Hey, boss. whyda' cut the pic off at the strategic point;-)))) Heehee. Yeah, I need something to cheer me up from that disgraceful match I just watched. :-(

Happy Birthday KJ!!! May your hopes spring eternal. ;-)

By Spring Proclamation - Today is KJ's Birthday! Spread the word near and far to Firth fans and forums across the planet!! To make your quest for all things Firth a little easier, head on over to: And the boys are ready to deal on a special birthday present for you: But remember to celebrate above all:

She's here...She's there...She's everywhere..... HAPPY BIRTHDAY KJ

(Minkee) How did you do that KJ? For the brain dead like me - is there an easy way to do that fancy writing here. I don't think that's in Ann's html primer, is it? Getting to know your fonts is one route, but for the increasingly brain-dead like myself, a handy short-cut to assemble logos can be found at: http://www.coolarchive.com/logogen.cfm Just be patient, they take a bit of time to load. Great playground for the font-challenged! ;-) Thank you for your greeting and your sentiments, Moon; I heartily concur with the sentiment! Thank you Karen, for the announcement and celebration, but I'll have to take a rain-check with the boys ... still working on just making the rent... but I can dream, can't I? ;-) Why, Evelyn, whatever do you mean? ;-) Thank you so much for this and all the other little icons that grace your messages - I love 'em! ASSEMBLE LOGOS: http://www.coolarchive.com/logogen.cfm

Happy Birthday Kool KJ! Thanks for the link to the coolarchives.

Minkee:

July Premiere p. 32 Jennifer Tilly's Lowdown: "It's bad protocol to reject tongue" "1. Any kind of touching has to be negotiated. 2. Espect Fuid Enchange It's bad protocol to reject tongue, unless it's a scene in which you're kissing your dad. If the other person clenches their teeth you just say 'Okay, they don't want that much cinema verite'. 3.Beware the bad angle. If the camera is shooting up at you, make them stop immediately. It gives you a double chin. 4. Keep it clean We try "lip seal" over the lipstick to make it not come off, but still comes off. [the other actor comes away looking like Bozo the Clown. Between takes, people rush in with Handi Wipes and scrub his face. 5.Get Hot You need to be attracted to your costar. There are only two people that I really despised kissing, and when you see it on film, it's not pleasant to watch, either. 6 But Not That Hot You should not be too attracted to your costar. I have seen kisses where I was too into it , and my eyes are rolled in the back of my head, and my mouth is open like a fish. This kiss is not just for you, it's for 20 million viewers. [Ed note: anybody see Tom Cruise and Penelope Cruz in Vanilla Sky?... Sizzle] 7. Sometimes you run into guys who like to take your face in their hands. In real life that's lovely, because it's like 'Oo, I don't have any control' But onscreen, not having any control is really bad, because your face is totally obscured by his hands." [Ed note: *am feeling faint*] ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Methinks Auntie Jennifer should give ex-brother- in- law these tips.

Happy collective birthday, June party gals (near and far, here and gone...)

(Jennifer Tilly) 5.Get Hot You need to be attracted to your costar. 6 But Not That Hot You should not be too attracted to your costar. Maybe he's too conscious of what Livia would think, so he tones it down too much. He does have that "track record" with co-stars.

Maybe he's too conscious of what Livia would think, so he tones it down too much. So then it's just as well that he's doing AG? :-( The Firthettes must help him snap out of it!"It's bad protocol to reject tongue" ;-D

Maybe he's too conscious of what Livia would think, so he tones it down too much. My thoughts exactly, Dorine. It's no coincidence that this tongue rejection has occurred over the past 6 or so years. Didn't Ruth Gemmell say he was a crap kisser in FP (or maybe that was her jealous? boyfriend relating the tale). Could someone tell me what the kisses were like in SLOW? I can't bring myself to look at it again.

He's mainly kissing her neck.

(Evelyn)Methinks Auntie Jennifer should give ex-brother- in- law these tips. She could give him some tips on nude scenes, too. She had a bubble bath scene in "The Women" (on stage in NYC), and stood up at the end, with very few bubbles clinging to her (and not strategically arranged). Interestingly enough, the scene was altered for the TV version (PBS this month). Wonder JT she despised kissing so much that she thinks it shows?

oops! sorry, Wonder who JT despised kissing.

It's been a while now but someone posted a note here about CF's two entries on Meg Wood's Boyfriend of the Week page which I checked out and go back to now and then, it's a fun page. (www.megwood.com) Anyway, she's got a note up that says she's taking votes on the best all time boyfriend of the week. Since CF is the ONLY former boyfriend meriting two mentions, it would be a shame if he was not recognized. Anyone for some ballot box stuffing? Check out the website and then email her at topfive@megwood.com

(Mari) Could someone tell me what the kisses were like in SLOW? I can't bring myself to look at it again. (Karen) He's mainly kissing her neck. Except for the practically "pecking" the few times they do liplock. He almost had a good one going when his DW showed up, but didn't quite cross the finish line. Mari, SLOW was certainly not the best use of his talents, but prior to TIOBE, I think it's the best he looked in years along with the LAST scenes in BJD.

(Dorine)Maybe he's too conscious of what Livia would think, so he tones it down too much. LOL, you guys! So now I can't get this image out of my head of Livia at the top of the stairs snapping her fingers saying, "A little less tongue there, Colin, I need you upstairs!" Love how little bits of CF have a way of creeping onto other topics ;-) BTW, a very happy belated birthday to all the Geminis that have celebrated so far!

(Lora)So now I can't get this image out of my head of Livia at the top of the stairs snapping her fingers saying, "A little less tongue there, Colin, I need you upstairs!" LOL, Lora! Now, I can't get that image out of my head either. I'm watching 100 love stories over the last 100 years on CBS. Harrison Ford just said the worst thing you can do in a love story is make love. It spoils everything. Maybe he's been talking to ODB, or maybe to Livia.

I don't know how much his present circumstance may hinder him....they replayed Camille on Sunday and even then the kissing had a lot to be desired (along with the movie). As someone commented somewhere, we'll have to see in HS. There is a kiss right near the beginning (in book) so we will know how things will be early on!

Happy Birthdat K.J. Sorry to be late but haven't had much time for my pc this week.

I love the irony of this. From Ananova: Hugh Grant and Mike Leigh are to be honoured by an Italian Film Festival. They are among the recipients of this year's Taormina Arte Diamond Awards for their work and contributions to cinema. They will be presented with their awards during the Taormina BNL FilmFest, which takes place from July 6 to 13 in the Italian town.

From Empire: British director Anthony Minghella has been hard at work over the past few months, assembling one of the most impressive ensemble casts to be seen on screen in ages. Minghella's adaptation of the bestselling novel Cold Mountain had looked to be in trouble when early lead Tom Cruise pulled out of negotiations. But a recent spate of casting aquisitions, including Donald Sutherland and England's Ray Winstone, means that the total star rating of the cast is one of the highest since Ocean's Eleven. So far, Minghella has persuaded Nicole Kidman, Renee Zellwegger, Jude Law, Natalie Portman, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Giovanni Ribisi and Irish actor Brendan Gleeson to join his cast. It's expected that the lead roles have all dropped their salaries, in return for percentage points, in order for Minghella to afford such an impressive grouping. Producer Sydney Pollack told Variety today that he's not worried that the starry cast will distract people from the story being told; 'You have to start from the premise that every one of these stars is playing character roles,' he said. 'It's not going to be the Jude Law you saw in Ripley. It's a stubbly, roughed-up Jude Law playing a taciturn, monosyllabic guy. We're counting on the fact that you won't sit there stargazing.'

On 162, Moon asked who wrote "The Grass is Greener." It isn't my favorite Cary Grant movie, but I like it, so I looked it up. It was written by Hugh Williams, as a play, then a movie. It's the only movie he wrote. But he was an actor, and made lots of movies, including a turn as Robert Chiltern in a 40's "Ideal Husband." I didn't recognize any other films he'd been in, and I don't know about stage work. (Trivia--his son is Simon Williams, Capt. James of Upstairs Downstairs) Grass is Greener does have a sort of Noel Coward thing, with the big house and the people sitting around having tea or drinking martinis. The director was Stanley Donen (who had worked with Grant in at least one other movie). I wonder how much of the feel of the film is from the writer and how much is from the director and his actors?

Thanks, Kate! Hugh William did an excellent job, the dialog is so witty. I love the scene of the duel in the long hallway. a sort of Noel Coward thing, with the big house and the people sitting around having tea or drinking martinis. I'm inspired. ;-)

Attention all London, UKers � would appreciate any assistance you could give. I am a just graduated Canadian social worker (my secret identity behind the Colin fanatic thing) who is going to relocate to London, probably in early to mid August. Am in the middle of my passport application (right of abode through my dad) and other paperwork � wondering if anyone has any helpful info on cheap and decent places to live (looking at flatshares), any other tips you can give. Haven�t been there in 7 years. Also, more relevant to this discussion, I would love to see some �sights� when I am over there � Lyme Park immediately comes to mind, I think I would just melt to see Pemberley in person. Any other suggestions on locations? I am readily available at my email address. Thanks in advance. (And really my move has nothing to do with my scary celebrity obsession, really!)

Please email EmmaB if you'd like to assist her with her relocation plans.

Emma B, sorry that I can't assist you, but I envy you! Has anyone seen this? (Being relatively new, this may have been discussed.) I can't tell if the author is serious or not... http://hometown.aol.com/sspamina/myhomepage/profile.html

Happy, Happy Birthday to all Geminis from another Gemini. Grass Is Greener was great pic. How civilized everyone was. Grant one of my all-time favorites. Can't watch Penny Serenade tho, breaks my heart. So many rumors and different accounts of him off screen, I guess no one really knows what he was like. Just know that on-screen one of the best ever. Not many like him today, except CF of course. Didn't always get the girl of his choice though, it would take a Sophia Loren to turn him down. Can only imgagine the caliber of a romance like that!

Amy, I'm relatively new too. Just read "Marriage Proposal" myself. Hard to say about seriousness, but good imagination and good for Firth Fiction. Since I don't think he has time or inclination to surf the webs, proposal is not an issue. Would be nice if he did tho, then he'd know how much he was adored (as if he doesn't know).

Alert: ECC coming up I just had to post this because of what was written to accompany this pic... Liz Hurley made her first public appearance since becoming a mother and dazzled waiting crowds with one of her trademark dresses. The Hollywood actress showed she had no trouble losing the extra pounds after giving birth to son Damian Charles Hurley a few months ago.

I know I'm jumping the gun, but only 2 more minutes here, and the event already exists points East, so:

I just can decide about that "Mariage Proposal"...it seems a bit over the top (i.e.scary). My appologies if it is a drooler. As for Liz: Those extra pounds weren't lost, they just migrated. They have 'Rebecca' written all over them. Nothing small there ;) HapPY bIRthdaY mOOn! have a swell day!

Time to pop the cork! Bring on the bubbly for Moon's Birthday Party Extravaganza

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOON!!!!! Have a wonDROOLful day! (it's kinda plain lookin'...haven't learned how to be fancy yet) :-D

Ah caro...I'll meet you down by the lake..under the plain tree next month...

But wait....a package just arrived... from For our own PRINCIPESSA.... HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOON

closing the tag

RISE FROM THAT SEMI RECUMBENT POSTURE! And wish our dear Moon a very happy birthday today! You must change your tatoo to read Moon as well! How perfectly appropriate! Have a very happy birthday, Moon! Enjoy the celebration!

That's right, Colin, rise and kiss my.......... hand! (Says I snapping fingers) ;-) Thanks, Lora! I'd like to take him for a ride or two around the block. ;-) Evelyn, che bella tiara! Grazie! My motto is jewelry will get you anywhere, you just better know how to kiss when you're there. ;-) Karen, so he does own tall socks? LOL! Maybe the Roamn tailor will convince him to wear them. (And drop those ugly boots too). ;-) Thank you KJ. I love those oriental letters. Puts me in the mood to read Rumi. :-) Thanks, Dorine, I am planning to have a wonDROOLful day! Lovely wishes, Aishling and Amy. Thanks you! :-D Now as I always do quite early on my birthday, let's drink some champagne!

Make that tattoo... Moon, in honor of your big day TIOBE has opened in one more theater in your fair city! How perfectly delightful!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY , DEAREST MOON.... Why do you make me play second fiddle to that guy in the wet shirt... Don't feel so bad...I've been relegated to third...

Happy birthday, Moon (e Forza Azzuri)

Which was meant to be: Happy birthday, Moon (e Forza Azzuri) Long time since I did HTML...

Happy Birthday, Moon! Sorry, cherie, but as you can see, I wear ugly shoes too.

As a result of late breaking news, we interrupt our regularly scheduled programming to bring you Katie Couric interviewing Colin Firth: Katie: Colin, great to see you again. (face beaming and eyelids fluttering). Colin: I'm pleased to be back again too. Katie: (biting lip as must portray v. professional journalist) Perhaps not under these circumstances though. Colin, the wire services are reporting that a radical gang of urban terrorists known as TTB has laid siege to your home in London. Fortunately you are in New York right now, but can you tell us what this small but vocal gang wants from you, an actor? Colin: It is very distressing to me and my family and is causing a monumental upheaval on the street where I live. The button shop on the corner has had to close. Upper Street is barricaded. No one can cross it. Katie: Yes, the economic ramifications as well as the personal ones must be significant. But why has TTB chosen this time to make a stand and what are its grievances? Colin: Their leader, who calls herself La Bella Luna, that's the only name we have for her but authorities on two continents are pooling their resources to hunt her down. Unfortunately, few have seen her face and this is the only known photograph of her taken in Venice this year and it is very blurred. (holds photo to camera) La Bella Luna is on the left, and we suspect that the person on her right is her financial supporter. Katie: What does TBB stand for? I'm not familiar with the group. Colin: (looking down) We've only recently been apprised of that ourselves, as most of my fan mail is outsourced. Apparently, any correspondence from this group was handled as would any other letter. They would've received a machine-autographed headshot. Katie: So you missed any initial demands or concerns from this group. But what does TBB stand for? The initials? Colin: (barely audible) The Tongue Brigade. Katie: (lights up) The Tongue Brigade? Colin: Yes. Katie: Please explain the significance of this group. Are they political in nature or something to do with the environment or animal rights or human rights? Colin: As the authorities have explained it to me, this group surfaced concurrent with my latest movie, The Importance of Being Earnest, and some of the promotional work we did for it. In fact, a comment attributed to Rupert Everett, was likely the impetus to galvanize this group into action. Katie: Is this another instance of Americans not understand British slang, but I'm not making the connection between tongues and that movie. Can you clarify? Colin: For the sake of justice, then I must. Evidently, this group is rather dissatisfied with the manner of my onscreen kissing. (audible gasp by Katie) On a VH1 program, Rupert made light of my kissing with Reese. He used the term "chicken pecking" and made me the brunt of his joke. Katie: This is all about kissing? (extends foot shod in overpriced FMP toward Colin's long legs) Colin: Yes, I'm afraid so. As you must realize, there are no occasions for passionate kisses in a Wilde play. Katie: Unlike tattoos...Yes, but surely this group must realize it was a single film and is not indicative of all your works. (voice lowers to sultry) There is the wonderful Bridget Jones's Diary. Colin: I fear the TTB had problems with that as well, which was news to all concerned. Your own MTV included my kiss with Renee in its annual movie awards program. It didn't win, but it did make the slate. Surely, that must mean something? Katie: You make some excellent points, Colin, but do you have an idea as to why this unrest has coalesced and turned toward violence? Colin: We are reading the gossip columns daily to see if we can gather data, but suspect it might have to do with the current movie I am filming. Katie: Which is what? (hopefulness apparent in voice) The sequel to Bridget Jones? Colin: No, it is called American Girl. Katie: Is it another romantic comedy about you and an American Girl? Colin: No, the American girl in the title is my 17-year-old daughter, who has come to England to find me. Katie: You're playing the father of a 17-year-old? (shock apparent on her face) Colin: Why yes, it is possible for someone my age, you know. Katie: Yes, of course, but is it necessary? (hands clenching the arms of her chair) Colin: That's a hard question to answer. Many in Hollywood have spent years trying to understand why things are done. One could even lose one's hair over it. Katie: (face become flushed, pulls back leg) So, to summarize, this terrorist group is showing its displeasure over the lack of real romantic interludes in your films and the apparent trend toward G-rated, Father-Knows-Best parts? Colin: Yes, that is one way of putting it, although I only have a cursory understand of the Father Knows Best thing as a result of living in St Louis for one year. We didn't have a television and was an "outsider" to.... but frequently, when Guisseppe Tornattore and I sit under the boughs of ancient trees and discuss the future of film... Katie: (sputtering) I liked Cinema Paradiso as much as the next person, but are you saying that you're giving up or not pursuing roles that require romantic scenes with your co-stars? Colin: Not exactly. I don't pursue roles. I prefer if they come my way. Katie: (moistening lips) But Colin, there must be wonderful roles out there that you are passing up because they require a bit of snogging, as you Brits so cutely put it? Colin: That is possible, but I don't enjoy doing love scenes. They aren't at all fun to do. Katie: Is that because your counterparts have all had oral hygiene problems? Colin: Not really. But it is a paradox of sorts that what must come across as so romantic, sensual and everything is in actuality, terribly mechanical to do. Katie: Is that not the nature of acting? Colin: (caught between headlights look) Ummm, well, certainly, but I prefer to do roles that challenge me and right now, I find comedy far more challenging than drama and certainly more challenging than stagework. Katie: Returning to the incident that is currently being played out at your home in London, how do you feel it will be resolved? Colin: To be perfectly honest, I have no idea. Katie: Thank you, Colin, for taking the time to be with us and if you get the name or number of the membership chairperson for TBB would you let me know? We return to our regular programming now.

LOL Karen! This was great: one for the Drool HoF! :) ... and Happy Birthday La Bella Luna!

Great stuff Karen. Happy Birthda Moon.

Moon, darling, the little Italian tailor quit on me in disgust when he asked me how I "dressed," and I responded "poorly." Perhaps you can take me to one of your famous American coutouriers?

Oh Karen.....*tears rolling down face*...ROTFLMAO... (KC) re: AG.."but is it necessary? (hands clenching the arms of her chair) " ....(CF)"... I only have a cursory understand of the Father Knows Best thing as a result of living in St Louis for one year. We didn't have a television and was an "outsider" You didn't miss a thing.... (Odile)This was great: one for the Drool HoF! :) Here, here...a keeper.Hard to overtake this one.

Happy Birthday Moon! i hope you have a Wonderful Day! *hug*

"Im practicing, Moon,honestly" "I don't have to practice....come ovah here, let me show you...." [Ed note: Methinks: "left"]

and Karen, that was Brillant! ROTFLOL!

Karen, I need a bucket, but not for Drool! Am ROTFLMAOPIMP!!! The button shop on the corner has had to close. We are reading the gossip columns daily to see if we can gather data, La Bella Luna is on the left, and we suspect that the person on her right is her financial supporter. Classic stuff. Well done, honey!

For the birthday girl: Martinez Doesn't Do Nude Olivier Martinez kept his clothes firmly on in new film Unfaithful--because he's shy. Even though his co-star Diane Lane dares to bare in the new drama, Martinez has ruled out stripping on screen. He says, "I'm never naked in the movie, because I don't play naked--because I'm shy. Sometimes we are actors, but we are also human beings. Different personalities and different behaviors. And I'm an actor who doesn't play naked."

Ohhhhhh!!!!!!!!!! Karen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!ROTFLOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Unfortunately, few have seen her face and this is the only known photograph of her taken in Venice this year and it is very blurred. (holds photo to camera) La Bella Luna is on the left, and we suspect that the person on her right is her financial supporter. Who happens to be suo marito. This is too funny. (hands clenching the arms of her chair) As Evelyn said, you didn't miss a thing, that was brilliant! Good to know Colin's practicing, Evelyn, thank you for bringing carissimo Jeremy to my party. Poor Rupi is 4th now. [Ed note: Methinks: "left"] Methinks, right. It's hiding under his hand. Olala! And, Mari, merci. Olivier is so dreamy. BTW, I can take those shoes. It's those clunky boots ODB wears that have to go. ;-) It's great to have all the guys at my party. ;-) And, Mari, please tell Colin that if he wants to come shopping with me, he'd best be prepared to spend, tantissimo. But I think I'd rather talk to that Roman tailor and convince him to help him, as a charity case. ;-) Thank you Mark, keep those Forza Azzuri thoughts. :-D Thank you, Odile, Pam (fellow Gemini) and SB. Have some champagne.

And I'm an actor who doesn't play naked." As long as you can kiss, the rest we can make up. ;-)

"I don't have to practice....come ovah here, let me show you...." [Ed note: Methinks: "left"] Oh, Evelyn, where did you find that picture? It is priceless. You didn't miss a thing.... Yes, I did. :-( I was in a hurry and had to post. I'll make a few notes in case there's a need for a follow-up interview or additional tape is miraculously found from this one. ;-D Good place to shop, Mari? ;-D OK, more for the birthday girl...

And we must hear from your most ardent admirer...

And what would a party be for Moon without a floor show? Let's all sing it, gals, "Yes, we have no bananas. We have no bananas today."

*APPLAUSE APPLAUSE APPLAUSE APPLAUSE APPLAUSE APPLAUSE APPLAUSE APPLAUSE* BRAVO! (this was classic!, thanks for the laughs! how will this ever be topped?)

there is no way i could top any of you more experienced firth fans, so i'll just say my humble- happy birthday moon! thanks for all the laughs today everyone

ROTFLOL!!! I ca'ant see ti tope....too amny tears im ny eyes aftr the intrveiw! Then!.... the singng dancng Colin! I'm hysterical with laughter!!!! Yes, BRAVO!! BRAVO!! (Oooo, some nice JN pics too)

Katie: Is that because your counterparts have all had oral hygiene problems? CF: In addition to what I said, its because I'm sick and tired of my wife poking me with those red nails. HAVE A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY, CARA ROTFLOL--EVEN MY BJD WORDS FAIL ME NOW. So I'm wishing you Happy Birtday, toasting you with a glass of white wine, as Mark Darcy did for Bridget. Karen, that's why we call you da BOSS! Still waiting for the wedding picture that you are afraid we can't handle. Wouldn't that be a great present for Moon, to go along with everything else?

I'll make a few notes in case there's a need for a follow-up interview or additional tape is miraculously found from this one. ;-D Karen, we will be waiting for that follow-up interview. The Bucket runs deep. ;-))) Oh, Rupi, my admirer. You do look good in armour. ;-) And what can I say about banana boy? Love you Geoffrey! *smooch* Keep smiling, baby. :-D On an aside, and this is my World Cup fever showing. Those steps of Geoffrey done up in a soccer uniform would work in manner of: Great player after scoring a goal. ;-D Thanks, trese.

Thank you, Linda! Cheers!

"The good ended happily and the bad unhappily. That is what Fiction means." moon can never have enough presents, i agree.....

moon can never have enough presents, i agree..... Thanks, Amy! Lucky for me, my DH feels the same way. :-D Party hoping but I'll be back. *hic* Have more champagne, ladies. The cake is yet to come.

(Moon) Have more champagne, ladies. The cake is yet to come. WIll it be my favorite kind......beefcake? ;-D

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVERYONE!!! BRAVO AND THANK YOU MARI, EVELYN (METHINKS RIGHT & LEFT!! OOOLLALA), AND KAREN. WHAT A GOOD JOB. I DON'T THINK THIS CAN BE TOPPED. AMAZING. WITH GOOD STUFF LIKE THIS ITS LIKE HAVING A BIRTHDAY EVERY DAY. THANK YOU.

I don't care what he says...Olivier looks pretty nekkid to me.

Being the inept computer person that I am, I can only offer Birthday wishes to you Moon. Hope your day is great. Thanks for all the pics and the fantastic entertainment today. Karen, the interview was excellent. I am thoroughly impressed. What are you gonna do for tomorrow? :)))))

ROTFL My compliments to the chefs who have produced such amusing (and tasty) moon-cakes (yueh ping), and best returns of the day to the birthday woman. Evelyn, you have melted down my monitor. ;)

(Dorine) WIll it be my favorite kind......beefcake? ;-D Well, I see that Evelyn obliged with a little of that, but I could post some lovely Michael shots. (Pam) I DON'T THINK THIS CAN BE TOPPED. Check out topic 110, where we celebrate Colin's birthday. (Lisa) What are you gonna do for tomorrow? :))))) Thank goodness, it's the Sabbath and I can rest. (Ev) I don't care what he says...Olivier looks pretty nekkid to me. Trust me, I've seen the movie. He's never nekkid. Even Diane Lane is never fully exposed. Hands are strategically placed, and there is the most clever camera work I've ever seen. A major disappointment. All hype. No delivery. ;-D ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Since Moon is probably still out drinking champagne and wines and similar, she'll be right in the mood for some lo-cal cake when she gets home. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOON!!! Hope it was as much fun for you as it was for us...and that you got lots of jewelry, dear. ;-)

Mick Jagger has been awarded a knighthood in the Queen's Birthday Honours List. Jagger, who appears on the list as Michael Philip Jagger, singer and songwriter, becomes a knight for "services to popular music". The award was leaked last weekend and has already generated some controversy. Despite his age - he will be 59 on July 26 - Jagger has perfected the art of growing old disgracefully with a string of flings with models, one of which resulted in a love child in his mid-50s. Jagger, who did not appear at the Golden Jubilee Palace pop concert, jokingly complained during a recent television documentary about missing out on royal recognition. Jagger says he is "delighted" at the news. Others getting honours included Harold Pinter (surprising because of his politics), David Suchet, Trevor Nunn, and writers Sebastian Faulks and Ian Rankin.

Thank you Lisa and Elizabeth. Check out topic 110, where we celebrate Colin's birthday. I have a feeling that this year it will be an incredibly philosophical one. ;-) (Karen), Hope it was as much fun for you as it was for us...and that you got lots of jewelry, dear. Yes, I did get the jewelry, my boys are so very good to me. :-D Karen you made this party a definite HoF one. Thanks to you and my lovely friends. Hugs and kisses to all.

(Karen)Others getting honours included Harold Pinter (surprising because of his politics),... There's hope for Colin then;-)) *Sir*Mick Jagger???I agree with those who say they're scraping the bottom of the barrel. What's David Suchet done....Poirot?Mr. Darcy brought in more tourism that he has. Agree re: Tervor Nunn. He's done great things for the National Theatre. (Mind your own business, evelyn...it's not your country;-)))

HappybelatedBirthday, Moon!from the ever-late Caribou :-) The party is over, the thank you have been sent and the topic has changed. You do realize, of course, that timing like this is even harder than comedy. ;-) Hope you have a great year and your wishes come true -- which would be good for all of us!

Thanks, Caribou, we do share some wishes. ;-D

(Evelyn)What's David Suchet done....Poirot?Mr. Darcy brought in more tourism that he has. Yes he did, and he has more hair too-at least for now. DS also had a part in Victoria and Albert-with ODB'S dear brother.

(Evelyn)*Sir*Mick Jagger???I agree with those who say they're scraping the bottom of the barrel. Ah, c'mon, Ev, he's a stand-up guy. Aside from the drinking . . . and the smoking . . . and the vulgar mother . . .and the drug busts ;-) Oh, then there's the matter of siring 7 children with 4 different women. And the fact that he left England to live in France at one point to avoid paying taxes. But my fave: when the Brazilian model got pregnant, Jerry sued him for divorce and he comes up with the announcement that she couldn't divorce him (and get a wifely chunk of his estate) because they had never really been legally married. Which had the effect of announcing to their children (and the world) that they were illegitimate.:-( I like his music and always will, but I don't think he'd even make the bottom of the barrel.

I like his music and always will, but I don't think he'd even make the bottom of the barrel. It looks like getting "Sired" by the Queen is as easy as getting a star in Hollywood Walk of Fame. You write letters and petitions and get enough signatures to get them qualified. How absurd is that? The Knights of old must be turning in their graves.

There's someone even more tardy than Caribou... Belated Happy Birthday Moon! Splendid party obviously! You're lucky to have talented friends who partied with you all through the day and night. Now I hope that all this birthday bash has not diverted you from your goal in life....which is to teach our boy to upgrade from chicken pecking to this... ....to catch Sir Elton's attention and get an invite to leave his "mark" along with those two from BJD...

Ooops...last image bombed. Trying again... just learned to link image image ...it shows!

Dear Minkee, you're getting very good! Now I hope that all this birthday bash has not diverted you from your goal in life....which is to teach our boy to upgrade from chicken pecking to this... ROTF! You better bring some of those images to his birthday party bash. ;-) And... Happy Birthday, Minkee!!!

From Masterpiece Theatre's newsletter, about their fall season: Masterpiece Theatre will return in the fall with a full slate of engrossing dramas, including the American Collection title, Esmeralda Santiago's Almost a Woman, A coming-of-age story about a young Puerto Rican girl in New York City. Also ahead is the long-awaited remake of the classic PBS presentation, the sweeping epic The Forsyte Saga, chronicling the lives of three generations of an aristocratic turn-of-the-century English family. Keep up with the Forsyte family tree online as it grows throughout the summer: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/schedule/index.html#forsyte Just some of what's coming up in 2002/2003.... Zadie Smith's White Teeth Andrew Davies's adaptation of Dr. Zhivago Me and Mrs. Jones, starring Robson Green My Uncle Silas 2, starring Albert Finney Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's The House of the Baskervilles George Eliot's classic Daniel Deronda

Coming on A&E on August 3rd. According to a James Frain website. Other Armadillo pics: http://www.jamesfrainonline.com/armadillo.htm Director is Howard Davies who was recently nominated for a Tony for Private Lives currently on B'way.

OOHHHH, do you think ODB may be part of the Forsyte family tree? At least our cable co. provides PBS.

Thanks, Ev, one of the pic (sans shirt) looks like post-lucid dreaming. Am visualizing somebody else... *sniff sniff*

Minkee, if today is your birthday I hope it's magical! YKW came out of this poster today just to wish you a happy one!

FYI Newbies:To keep you in the loop. Re: Armadillo. Two years ago there were strong rumors that Colin was going to play the role of Lorimer in "Armadillo". *Strong* like it was in Baz's column in the Daily Mail and A&E almost admitted such to Mari on the phone. Then: nada. And suddenly we discovered that James Frain was going to play the role and Colin was playing Dr. Stuckhart in the HBO movie, Conspiracy. Meanwhile....we had all bought and read the book, and Karen even had a page up and running..... Soooo, therefore the interest.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MINKEE-what a great present from Lora Lora, can you believe that you were right there taking that picture? Gives me the chills just to think about that night again, You lucky girl!

*sob* Sorry I missed the BIG par-tay. Happy birthday, dear Moon, from the-former-partier-now-latest-of-the-late! Hope it was a good one.

Karen, Thanks for the heads-up on the updated Forsyte Saga. I'll show my age here by admitting that I LOVED it the first time around on PBS. Hope that the new version lives up to my memories of the old.

*sob* Sorry I missed the BIG par-tay. Happy birthday, dear Moon, from the-former-partier-now-latest-of-the-late! Hope it was a good one. We missed you, Eileen. The party was a HoF as you see. Armadillo: Coming on A&E on August 3rd. (Karen), Am visualizing somebody else... *sniff sniff* I know what you mean, Karen. Colin was Latimer.:-( I can't picture Frain in this at all. I did enjoy the book which I might not have read otherwise. I will be in Italy and would appreciate someone taping it and lending it to me on my return. Grazie!

Minkee, is it really your birthday? Dates, we need exact dates! Astrological signs just won't cut it. Will have to do some late night or early morning shopping for a present.

Happy Birthday Moon and Minkee. Sorry to be so late. Haven't had much time for the computer the past week or 10 days.

Given what we've been talking about on 162, this one's for you Minkee, if it is your birthday (which you haven't confirmed!!!)

Well, Mink, is it or isn't it? Inquiring minds . . . Oh, Moon, I just head the Italy/South Korea score. Sono spiacente! Maledizione! (Am cramming with my Berlitz tapes;-)

Oooooh! I just caught up on my reading from the weekend and *sob* what a glorious birthday celebration I missed! Karen, ROTFLMAO at that Katie Couric interview. Am eagerly awaiting follow-up. Evelyn, that JN picture was positively delightful (and methinks the editor is correct) ;^) Kudos to all. A very, very happy belated birthday to Moon and Minkee!

Oh, Moon, I just head the Italy/South Korea score. Sono spiacente! Maledizione! (Am cramming with my Berlitz tapes;-) LOL! Good words to start with. We are very depressed. There has been no fairplay by the referees, they wanted Italy out and Korea to advance. It's political. :-( Thanks, Lucie and Sandy, cheers is what I need. :-D BTW, Minkee posted her bday at the beginning of Gemini season. I asked her. So it is correct. And, there are more Geminis that have not given us a date like Lisa who is also a Gemini. Ladies, we want the dates!

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a woman in possession of a good number of years in her age must keep keep extremely quiet indeed when another birthday is upon her....but when Drooleurs of such talent lure her out with such temptations, what's an old gal to do? I'm a cusp-ian(?)/cusp-ist(?)...born on 20th of June - between Gemini and Cancer - "the homely flirt" I think is a blended astrological description. Lora, thank you. I also thank and agree with Linda...that is a great present indeed! Perfect for oggling, real sight for sore eyes..... but if Karen is to be believed - I'll be going blind soon! LOL, thanks Boss. Cross my heart (but not hope to die) that green book contains only nice decent photos of ODB...although my eyeballs do look being split between *left* and *right*. ;-) Lucie - thank you am very happy you're early for mine. :-)) And, finally Moon, thanks for the birthday wishes and the nice thoughts represented by the lips. I don't mean to be ungracious ...'cept I recognise those as the Gnat's. Eeewww. May I return soiled goods please? I'll have even just one of the pair on that gorgeous present from Lora. ;)~~~~ And Moon - pity about the Azzure - that was real tough luck for. :(( At 5 minutes before the end I was mentally writing out the following trivia to send to you tonight in big bold letters but not anymore (ducking for cover).... Vieri grew up and played football in Sydney

Mari - see above. May I borrow your Berlitz tapes? Sandy, grazie. (I'll complete the sentence when I get the tapes from Mari.) Moon - I noticed that about the referee too! Shame! Shame! (But I won't take anything away from the Koreans - those goals were brilliant.) Our household was cheering for Italy too. We were speechless. In Sydney, the equivalent of Little Italy is a city fringe area called Leichardt and the equivalent of Mulberry Street is Norton Street. That whole street was closed during the Italy/Mexico game (delirious with celebrations at end of night) and again tonight - except tonight it was like a quiet church. Oh dear. Oh dear. :(

This season's production of Clare Boothe Luce's The Women will be broadcast on PBS stations across the country thanks to the network's "Stage on Screen" series. Hosted by "Seinfeld" star and theatre veteran Jason Alexander, the classic play about a group of "gold-diggers, schemers, gossips and social climbers" was recorded live at the American Airlines Theatre in January starring Kristen Johnston, Rue McClanahan, Cynthia Nixon, Jennifer Tilly, Mary Louise Wilson and Jennifer Coolidge. Luce's 1936 comedy, which was produced by The Roundabout Theatre Company and directed by Scott Elliott, will be broadcast in the metropolitan area on WNET on June 18 at 8 PM. Air dates for eight other cities follow: Los Angeles (KCET) June 18 at 9 PM Chicago (WTTW) June 18 at 9 PM Philadephia (WHYY) June 18 at 9 PM San Francisco (KQED) June 22 at 8 PM Boston (WGBH) June 22 at 8 PM Dallas (KERA) June 18 at 8 PM Atlanta (GAPTV) June 18 at 9 PM Detroit (WTVS) June 18 at 9 PM Final Sept. 1 Performance of Contact To Be Broadcast Live on PBS

Mari - see above. May I borrow your Berlitz tapes? Sandy, grazie. (I'll complete the sentence when I get the tapes from Mari.) Moon - I noticed that about the referee too! Shame! Shame! (But I won't take anything away from the Koreans - those goals were brilliant.) Our household was cheering for Italy too. We were speechless. In Sydney, the equivalent of Little Italy is a city fringe area called Leichardt and the equivalent of Mulberry Street is Norton Street. That whole street was closed during the Italy/Mexico game (delirious with celebrations at end of night) and again tonight - except tonight it was like a quiet church. Oh dear. Oh dear. :(

Yikes - the dreaded "refresh" icon. Sorry folks for double post.

I watched the match this morning. I was thinking of you, Moon, and all of my family in Italy-v.depressing. I was going to call them if Italy had won. I think I'll hold off for now. All phones have probably been pulled out from the walls by now anyway. Wonder if any tv screens survived? BTW, Karen, I was doing laundry while watching. (Minkee)born on 20th of June You share the same birthday as my DH. If I'm not mistaken, ODB's wedding anniversary is the next day.(sigh)

Grazie a tutti per i pensieri. (Go to it Mari) ;-) So if Minkee is the 20th, who was the 17th? Was it you Lisa? I know Vieri was born in Minkeeland. :-)

the women airs tonight (june 18) at 8 pm on KETC (st. louis), repeats the 20th at 2 am

Happy Birthday all my fellow Geminis. Wish I could do all the lovely pics as you talented people can do. Happy B-day Minkee. Mine is the 19th. I'm just so impressed that we are still in the running. Will see what happens Friday morning with Germany. GO USA!!!!

Thank you Linda . Happy Birthday to YDH too! Thank you Pam and here's one for you for today. I'm not a tardy turtle this time. Indeed you may need to party often - one for you, one for each of the other Geminians here and one for the USofA - good luck!

Interrupting the birthday bashes for a second... It looks like the nine-month search for a writer to work with Rupert Everett on his NBC sitcom has come to an end. Sources said former "Mad About You" executive producer Victor Levin is on track to serve as executive producer/showrunner on the NBC Studios/Touchstone TV show, which is being developed for midseason consideration. In October, NBC gave Everett a 13-episode commitment for a fish-out-of water vehicle in which he would star as a British ambassador, to be executive produced by the actor and Marc Platt. According to sources, Levin and Everett hit it off, and their meeting with the network this week went well, though the concept of the sitcom is still being tweaked.

Bet ole Rupe will be good in a sitcom. Lots of backsides to pat;-)*cruel, I know* "The Women" last night was disappointing. Live theatre on television is a double edged sword. A live audience brings out the best in a performance, but the stage acting comes off as OTT on a small screen. And I think that was the case here. The American Airlines theatre is cavernous (remember DFL) and they have to project to hit that upper balcony and that makes them screech for tv. Didn't like the way Cynthia Nixon (S&TC)played her role..too affected. And Jennifer Tilly always does best when the role calls for vulgar qualitie;-). Overall, they seemed to recite the lines with catty charms.Isaac Mizrahi's gowns were terrific. I liked the intermission interview with the cast.

Happy Birthday Pam! It is official, by the numbers, Geminis rule drool. :-D Bet ole Rupe will be good in a sitcom. Lots of backsides to pat;-)*cruel, I know* Especially in West Hollywood. ;-) Isaac Mizrahi's gowns were terrific. I adore him! Remember that black one that JLo wore to the Oscars 4 years ago? A stunner.

Here's an interesting article from The New York Observer, by Ron Rosenbaum, which discusses what he descibes as Jane Austen character types. Enjoy! http://www.observer.com/pages/story.asp?ID=5887

Thanks Suzanne - interesting reading :-)

Yes, thanks, Suzanne! Northanger Abbey was the first novel she�d written, it was the last one she published. It was also one that had somehow been lost in the shuffle�never filmed with Emma Thompson or Alicia Silverstone playing the heroine, or the annoying Colin Firth as the prize. P&P, starring the simpering Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy (which then morphed into an even greater media phenomenon with Bridget Jones�s Diary, in the film of which Colin Firth plays a modern Mr. Darcy much as I like the Pride and Prejudice miniseries, the focus on the heroic Elizabeth Bennet and the too-sensitive-from-the-get-go-to-really-be-Mr. Darcy Colin Firth has somehow turned a novel of great wit and asperity into, well, a generic chick flick. This guy has a problem with CF. LOL!

We're all dressed up in our formalwear, Pam, to wish you a very...

Thanks Sue.I think the author is a certified Austenite. And none of them liked the P&P mini-series.I came to like JA through my son who is a Mansfield Park man. Likes Chardonnay too, Moon;-) (Must ask him about quiche;-)

i agree with evelyn that the women on pbs was ott, i'm glad it wasn't just me, i caught it at intermission and thought the interviews were interesting, the whole experience made me want to watch the movie they showed clips of, has anyone seen that?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAM

Happy birthday(s), Pam and Minkee!

the simpering Colin Firth Simpering? Simpering? has me simmering-burning, in fact. Happily, I am proud to be in the P&P subcategory 4. Loved the book, the miniseries, and the BJD connection. Stick that in your pipe and smoke it. On a much lighter note, Happy Birthday Pam!!! Enjoy your day.

(trese) i agree with evelyn that the women on pbs was ott, i'm glad it wasn't just me I agree with both of you...so much so, I had to turn it off even before intermission. It became too grating to me. Thanks for the article, Suzanne. The author does seem quite put out by CF, doesn't he.

Thank you all so much for the Birthday Greetings. You have made my day, believe me. Your kindness and acceptance is go greatly appreciated. I love the graphics, copied to show my kids. Thanks so much. Thanks Suzanne for the article. I don't see, personally, why the JA purists didn't like the mini-series. It was really close to the book. The only parts missing, and I agree with everyone should have been in, were the building of the relationship, more meetings at Rossings, and the courting during the engagement should definitely have been in as well as Lizzy informing everyone that it was Darcy who bailed out Lydia. All these were essential and would have just added to his "chick-flick" impression. But let's remember the novel is about chicks. As far as his impression of CF -- Way out of line. He played the character as close to the book as possible, as JA was vague. Hardly simpering, and in many other reviews CF is acknowledged as the best of all the Darcys, which he is. I agree, this man definitely has a problem with CF. Major jealousy of the most successful portrayal of them all. I, also, am category 4. I think Rupert's sitcom sounds good. May leave openings for guest appearances, and since they are getting on so well, would be wonderful to see CF show up. Agreed? Rupert has said they act well together as a team. Could this be possible?!! One can only hope. Thank you again everyone.

Happy belated birthdays, ladies...sorry I have been neglectful. This is what comes of being a type 1d I suppose. :) It looks like the nine-month search for a writer to work with Rupert Everett on his NBC sitcom has come to an end. Could have been worse. Could have been Binder... At least this gives it a fighting chance to be funny.

(Elizabeth) Could have been worse. Could have been Binder... Ugh! Last night I caught the middle of a movie he wrote called The Sex Machine. I now know why everyone makes cracks about L'dum. I saw part of an episode of The Mind of a Married Man series on Showtime a while back, too and couldn't watch more. I now see that poor writing, directing, and acting is a pattern for him...or perhaps a lifestyle. Who keeps funding all these things for him to do? Sheesh! An belated Happy Birthday Pam!

Who keeps funding all these things for him to do? Product placement from the meat pie manufacturers, most likely. Snerk!

Happy Birthday!, Pam, or, better yet ... Pam!! Happy Birthday!, Minkee, or, better yet ... Minkee!! 'Nuff said!

Mine was June 17--Happy birthday Minkee and Pam! I think that Mike Binder's stuff is Horrible (not seen L'dum though)...what is his fascination with MH? Do they date? I don't know who that actor is--but he 'looks' like Lorimer. (Wasn't he Hungarian or something?)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MINKEE

So it was Amy's birthday on the 17th! A very Happy belated Bithday, Amy! And today is the day, Minkee! I know I jumped the gun before but here's to a great day. A very merry Birthday in Minkeeland to Minkee!

So it was Amy's birthday on the 17th! A very Happy belated Birthday, Amy! And today is the day, Minkee! I know I jumped the gun before but here's to a great day. A very merry Birthday in Minkeeland to Minkee!

All these parties . . . . . . I think I need to rest a bit with the birthday girls. Happy Birthday, Pam, Amy, and Minkee!

Happy birthday to Amy, Pam, and Minkee this week! All these Geminis on drool...when I think of all of you I keep hearing Moon and the Geminis in my head! Has a nice ring to it, like a girl band and what better place to start your tour -- in Minkeeland ;-)! Hope you all have a rockin' and rollin' time on your big days (Sir Paul is a Gemini, too)!

Mari, what film is THAT from???? I'm guessing ATA since, with what minimal attention I can muster up to look at the right-hand side of the photo, I've decided that's Jessica Lange with him. I haven't seen ATA yet - I wasn't in a hurry since in the archives y'all talked about how small Jess's part wound up being - but evidently I need to move it higher on the priority list. Happy Birthday to our birthday girls!!

Thank you very much for all your birthday greetings Rika, Lora, Evelyn, Elisabeth S, KJ, Eileen Moon - thanks again - I very much appreciate that you did not bring the lips of the Gnat with you this time ;-) Amy - Happy Birthday to you too - I hope you had a lovely day just like I did yesterday - (that's right, it's now past tense for me down here). (By the way - do you remember who coined that word "Minkeeland"?) Mari - thank you...but are you sure he will get a rest with all 3 of us bday girls? Together? What do you say, Pam and Amy? It's winter here but I'm suddently feeling very warm and am sure it's not due to the Merlot. Mama Mia - no wonder the Dottoressa (sp?) strictly scrutinises all his engagements. We need to move over to 159 ;-)~~~~

Yes, Rika darling, it's me in ATA. This is how I look with my shirt on. And this is how I look when I say "this is how I look with my shirt on." The flick is mediocre at best, but damn, I look hot in it!:-) (And there's lots of me in the first half; after that, you can stop the tape.;-)

Happy Belated Birthday, Amy

(Minkee)do you remember who coined that word "Minkeeland"?) That was me, I believe. Minkee, since it seems you're in no mood to share with the other girls, I'm sending him down to you and I told him it's BYOB--bring your own bed. From the PD (pre-Dotoressa) collection:

Looks like you might be having a visitor!

Karen Visitors of certain types always welcome especially those with smooches to deliver in person. But chicken pecks definitely not allowed!!!. For A-level smooches, I even provide perfect bed and pillows like those exclusively a la 4 Seasons. You can come too! Despite what Mari thinks - I am willing to share. But will Dottoressa? Maybe not :-( Lovely thoughts anyway, Karen. Grazie. (Mari - are you done with the Berlitz yet?).

On a different note: On Minkeeland tv tonight was a report on World Cup - Thai prison-style. 7000 prisoners - sufficient number of foreigners to make up several international teams - sad really :( In opening ceremony, flag carriers were prison cross-dressers dressed up in national costumes. France won the competition. Awarded with golden replica of WC trophy. How's that for promoting international relations?

(Mari) Didn't Ruth Gemmell say he was a crap kisser in FP (or maybe that was her jealous? boyfriend relating the tale). Mari posted that question over a week ago, and the discussion has somewhat died down, but just I encountered the original quote in a DarcyDrool archive. This is Ruth Gemmel, being interviewed in the January '97 Harpers & Queens: "When I told them about my part, my friends used to scream down the phone, but I was quite scared of him. But he's a lovely bloke, unaffected and sweet, and not at all showy, so the only time I was nervous after the first day was when we had to snog. In front of hundreds of people." My next question was one I had to ask on behalf of millions. "Well, it wasn't like the theater--we didn't snog properly. But it looks fine. Colin knew what he was doing--he's obviously had to snog on film before. When I told my boyfriend, he was delighted. He just said, "So, Mr. Darcy's a crap kisser?" And there you have it.

(Lora) All these Geminis on drool...when I think of all of you I keep hearing Moon and the Geminis in my head! Has a nice ring to it, like a girl band and what better place to start your tour -- in Minkeeland ;-)! LOL Lora - That's maybe because you've just heard of Kylie Minogue's (Aus/UK pop singer) "Can't get you out of my head?" recently released in US. And she does start her tour down here in August. People queued up overnight (and its winter here) to get tickets! I think they are all out of their heads! Rika Now that Mari has sent him to the Gemini girls for a *rest*, his crap kissing days are numbered! ;-)

Colin knew what he was doing Love the sound of that. Mari, ROTFLOL with those ATA pictures. Since my birthday was last month and I didn't mention it, I'm coming to Minkeeland with CF to visit you. So just move over and make room. I'm v. patient. Or I can BMOB. Again, Happy Birthday to all Geminis!

Minkee, You've been known to play at Drool while enjoying some refreshments... ...but I thought you could use some company this time. ;-)

(Mari - are you done with the Berlitz yet?). Just about, Mink. I think I finally have down all the Key Phrases for Americans Traveling Abroad: "Is there some sort of soccer tournament going on?" "Geez, you mean nobody in this town speaks English???" "La Dottoressa sent me." "Whaddya mean, dinner's at 10? I'm in bed by then!" "But, my travel agent assured me this place had central air." "That's F-I-R-T-H, and I was told he lives here part time." And so it goes.;-) Wait, here's one for you, Minkee, since you'll be "sharing": "Vorrei un letto matrimoniale." ("I'd like a double bed.") ;-)

LOL, Mari! Don't forget, "Can I have some ice?" (I've been told so many times it's bad for my health!LOL!) (Lora) All these Geminis on drool...when I think of all of you I keep hearing Moon and the Geminis in my head! Has a nice ring to it, like a girl band and what better place to start your tour -- in Minkeeland ;-)! I Love it, Lora! But you've been to my house and seen my music collection. When at the Uni I had a radio show and called it Gemini Rock, so you're not too far off. LOL! I am so happy that we are all on a mission to stop that chicken pecker and turn him into a real smoocher. He will conquer this, he will! ;-)

(mari)"From the PD (pre-Dotoressa) collection:" ... ROTF.I move we make that a new Drool acronym.

sorry i'm late, happy birthday ladies!!! (i'd list you all but i lost count) i'm a virgo myself (along with colin right) so i have a ways to go hope you all have/had great a day

sorry "a great day"

Counting last night and tonight-it brings my total to 7 for the number of viewings of TIOBE. I just want to say that after careful study of the very last scene-he does start off the kiss in a pecking manner, but I noticed tonight that it does indeed get better-though it is very quick(better when the DVD comes out and you can slow it down)-it does appear that he ever so slightly goes for FOC's top lip right at the end. Of course we know-no tongue action, but it is not all that bad. I'd take it any day. BTW, not that I would refuse, it was my 12 year old daughter who begged to go back again tonight. Mari, you are doing a fantastic job with those tapes. When we get together for HS we'll need to converse in Italian.

Hi Everyone - Happy Birthday and thank you for your good wishes. Now ladies are you sure you want to entrust him to all of us Geminis? Remember, each one of us is at least two people. He will never be the same, but I'd gladly take on the responsibility. Bring him on. He would permanently be flashing the "big grin". We are definitely up to the task.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO PAM AND MINKEE AND AMY.......... Are the Geminis taking over some sort of teaching role for ODB? As a full-fledged Gemini I humbly accept the responsibility for snogging lessons and will give timely and detailed reports on the progress. Shyly admitting to the group I have been told I'm quite the kisser....... Must go apply purifying mask, pluck eyebrows and find lip balm.......:))))))

A big THANK YOU for the happy birthdays. Since Geminis are really two...could he be up to the test? (Mari)The flick is mediocre at best, but damn, I look hot in it!:-) you sure got that right--plus the American accent doesn't do much for me either. BTW: technical question--how do you get the pics form the videos?

So many Geminis... and you're all really two people... well then, Happy Birthday to ALLLLLLLL of you. Do appreciate the lessons you're planning for ODB. Maybe by the time it's our turn he can teach all of us Virgoes a thing or two. We can certainly dream can't we?

(Kathy) Maybe by the time it's our turn he can teach all of us Virgoes a thing or two. By the time he gets down to the Capricorn here, I'll get to give him his final exam! And my exams are quite thorough! ;-D (Mari) I think I finally have down all the Key Phrases for Americans Traveling Abroad: Don't forget my favorite...where are the bathrooms?

(Moon) Don't forget, "Can I have some ice?" (I've been told so many times it's bad for my health!LOL!) Second on my list, Moon: Posso avere il ghiacchio, and yes, I know that stuff will do me in for sure.;-) (Dorine)Don't forget my favorite...where are the bathrooms? Numero uno, Dorine. But here's my dilemma: Dove il bagno? (literally, the bathroon), or Dove la toilette? (probably more correct but, gosh, it doesn't sound as musical;-) (Linda)When we get together for HS we'll need to converse in Italian. Magnifico! But before then, I'll have to learn how to say "Drop the freakin' towel, Colin! And open your mouth while you're at it";-)

(Amy)BTW: technical question--how do you get the pics form the videos? Firth fan Sharon B. took them with a "Snappy" camera and that's how we got the "Killer Looks" pages! Go to: http://hometown.aol.com/firthfav/firthfav5.html Piacere and buon appetito!:-)

(Mari) Magnifico! But before then, I'll have to learn how to say "Drop the freakin' towel, Colin! And open your mouth while you're at it";-) ROTF! I think we all need to learn that one!

This is the Fifth for the Firths... ;-D

Mari - the first word I'd look for when you pass on the Berlitz tapes : tongue the first phrase I'd learn : "Open your mouth" the second phrase I'd learn : "Show me your tongue" From then on, this Gemini teacher will have to use actions instead of words. Boss : I'm not a poster person - but you've just turned me into one. That goes straight to my wall! Heavens above...goose pimples aplenty. I can just hear THAT voice : "Care to join me for a drink, Minkee?" Ooohhhhh! And I'd say....Posso avere il ghiacchio Right, Moon, Mari? No?

(Minkee), Ooohhhhh! And I'd say....Posso avere il ghiacchio Right, Moon, Mari? No? If you get as far as "Open your mouth" and "Show me your tongue," I'd drop the ghiacchio part. ;-) (Mari), But before then, I'll have to learn how to say "Drop the freakin' towel, Colin! And open your mouth while you're at it";-) LOL! Toglie la asciugamano, Colin, e gia che ci sei, apre la bocca. Dove la toilette? (probably more correct but, gosh, it doesn't sound as musical;-) Toilette is preferable. (Lisa), Shyly admitting to the group I have been told I'm quite the kisser....... Well since you've brought it up, so have I. :-D

(Moon)Toglie la asciugamano, Colin, e gia che ci sei, apre la bocca. Yes, Colin, toglie. (Moon)Well since you've brought it up, so have I. :-D Well,come to think of it, so have I. I think he will be in very capable hands-especially when Mari learns to say the word tongue. Not to change the subject, I just saw this months issue of Harper's Bazaar. They published the RZ pictures that they passed on two years ago when she gained the weight for BJD. I could see very little difference in those compared to the ones they shot for this issue. I can't believe it. Maybe that's what has made her say no to gaining again for TEoR. She looked beautiful, btw.

closing tags, sorry

(moon)Toglie la asciugamano, Colin, e gia che ci sei, apre la bocca ...we should put that on a t-shirt....

....or towels....

(Minkee)That's maybe because you've just heard of Kylie Minogue's (Aus/UK pop singer) "Can't get you out of my head?" recently released in US. And she does start her tour down here in August (Moon)called it Gemini Rock, so you're not too far off. LOL! I'm a psychic and I didn't know it! To borrow Mari's phrase, I must be "Col-in" on the spiritual influences around here ;-). (Evelyn)I move we make that a new Drool acronym. I love it and second that motion! We are definitely able to put his career into different eras. Maybe, now that I'm thinking about it here, that can be my thesis topic (from 162): CF's PD Era and the way his breeches are worn then as opposed to post 1997 Era (and I just bought LE from the BB for research);-D.

Thanks Mari! (He looks pretty good with a beard, who'da thought?) Another question: What is a "snappy" camera?

Thanks for pictures Mari. What a good job. He does look good with a beard, Amy. I generally don't feel many men do look good in one. But there are exceptions. Thank you for Birthday Wishes Lisa. Finally got to see TIOBE today. First time in theater in 25-mile range. Nothing more to say than I am going to bed a happy woman with great expectations for fantacy tonight.

Belated Happy Birthdays to Amy and Pam

Moon)Toglie la asciugamano, May I offer a suggestion "Buttar via l'asciugamano" Buttar pronounced as bootah, not butter, giving your lips a pout, and softer sounding than toglie. Il burro may come in handy later. Happy birthday to all the birthday girls, and thanks to all the poster artists

Thanks, again, Mari for the pictures. Work hard on that Italian this weekend. Take those tapes to the beach.

Mari, thanks for all the eye candy from ATA, they are yummier without the words. Rika, you make a good point about a picture being worth a thousand words. The movie should have been called "A Thousand Words" with a disclaimer to turn sound off ;-). ****************************** Movie Warning Alert/Little bit of a Spoiler: If you go to see the movie "Minority Report" you need to know that the actor/director/sleeze known around here as MB has a very small but pivotal role in it. Gasped rather loudly in theatre when I saw it was him. But he plays a sleeze so maybe he was typecast ;-). Won't say anymore so as not to spoil it for you. Movie was okay -- definitely a Tom Cruise vehicle (with lots of futuristic vehicles flying around). The standout imho was Colin Farrell. He's excellent!!!!!

(Lora)known around here as MB Yikes, not the dreadful MB! He does get around, though,-makes one wonder. Would have loved to see him take direction from SS.

But he plays a sleeze so maybe he was typecast ;-). LOL! That surprised me too. As you said he has a pivotal role! The standout imho was Colin Farrell. He's excellent!!!!! I thought Samantha Morton was great! CF(the other CF), is cute, but too boyish looking. Did you notcie what weird teeth TC has? No wonder he's wearing braces now.

Anybody besides me think "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" hilarious? Have to be from ethnic background to appreciate it fully. But hey...what's there not to like about seeing Aiden from Sex & TC on the big screen?

I haven't seen "Wedding" yet, but it's a must now as a friend called at 11:45pm last night to tell me how much she loved it. She was laughing so hard she couldn't get anything out about the movie. I haven't paid attention to ads enough to see if he did this before he got buff.

Yikes, not the dreadful MB! He does get around, though,-makes one wonder. Would have loved to see him take direction from SS..... I just saw Minority Report tonight and * SPOILER * loved seeing MB getting the *%#@ kicked out of him. Sorry to re-emerge from Lurkdom to say such a vile thing, but I am still haunted by what he did to ODB in L'dum. Oh, and HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY TO ALL THE LOVELY JUNE LADIES! Especially Minkee, who thought I forgot her. So, Moon, Pam, Minkee, Trese and anyone I missed, please share your respective birthday wishes when you blew out your candles on your cakes this year. I have a few guesses as to what they might be ...

(Diane) loved seeing MB getting the *%#@ kicked out of him. You *know* that's the only part of L-dum I can stomach watching. hee hee

Read this in IndieWire today: Deutchman Emerges with New Digital Outfit Ira Deutchman, one of the American independent film scene's most accomplished veterans, has a new gig. For the past ten months, the co-founder of Cinecom and Fine Line (and current partner in Redeemable Features as well as faculty member at Columbia University) has been quietly assembling Emerging Pictures, a digital production and exhibition outfit based in New York. Deutchman's business model, however, is not to offer Gotham and other major market audiences yet another art movie venue, but to spread the word to territories that may not be quite so familiar with the world of specialized films. "The idea behind Emerging Pictures is to become a complete vertically integrated digital film company," said Deutchman from his office in midtown Manhattan. "We want to put together a network of non-traditional theaters linked by satellite. We've identified over 5,000 under-utilized auditoriums or theaters in performing arts centers and other venues around the country, and we want to bring movies to them." Emerging Pictures will book each film on a calendar basis, playing for one-week stints only. If a film performs well enough to warrant another booking, it will return to the theater for another week-long booking at a later date. Deutchman says he plans to exhibit other distributors' films as well as acquiring other titles that "fall under the radar" and working with some original productions. "The example that I like to use for people is Scranton, PA," Deutchman told indieWIRE. "Scranton has traditionally been a C or a D market as far as far as art films are concerned. By the time the films get there, it's been six or eight months since the film has been released in major markets. Our philosophy is that if you have a concurrent release with the major markets sent via satellite, then Scranton immediately becomes a B market based on its population. Deutchman hopes to outfit 200 theaters within the next three years. The first three theaters, in Scranton, New Brunswick, NJ, and one other location, will open within the next three months. For more information, visit: http://www.emergingpictures.com

I am curious: What type of marketing is done to label a market (besides population)?

is not to offer Gotham and other major market audiences yet another art movie venue, but to spread the word to territories that may not be quite so familiar with the world of specialized films. I would like to know what is going to happen to all those tapes of foreign films currently available for rent at the local video stores, when those stores decide to faze them out to accomodate the DVDs? Will anyone even bother to turn to DVDs? Will Truffaut, Godard, Bunuel, Antonioni, De Sica, etc. be lost to new generations? Surely there are some film freaks/aficionados out there that work for DVD companies? Why isn't anyone speaking of doing this? I don't own a DVD player, but I'm sure it won't be long now. Of course, I would need to get the double system one, and they are expensive.

From 162 (Mari) Speaking of debutantes, I was watching the Tom Hanks tribute from the AFI last night and there's a scene from Punchline in which Tom, as a stand-up comic, does a funny riff on debutante "activities," ending with the rant, "What Does This Have To Do With The Real World!!! That was the most outstanding homage to an actor I have yet to see. The guy not only is a great actor inbued with a work ethic beyond comprehension, but love of his craft as well. Those actors were all so sincere in their tributes. Michael Clarke Duncan brought tears to folks eyes. Tom Hanks is a great human being ; a national treasure.

ditto evelyn, i love tom too

(Moon)I would like to know what is going to happen to all those tapes of foreign films... Good thought Moon. I suspect sooner or later they will be for sale on ebay. Tom is pretty great. I am looking forward to his new movie.

Thank you Diane for the Birthday wishes. Great pics on 162. I hear the Greek Wedding is hysterical. My son saw it and said it was great. Have loved Aiden since his early days in Northern Exposure. He is one handsome man. Anyone know his stats? Watched Dutch Girls yesterday. Did anyone notice a very young Mr. Wickham on the hockey team also? Thanks for the Birthday wishes Diane. My son say Greek Wedding and said it was hysterical. Have loved Aiden since Northern Exposure and extremely envious of Sara J. How could she let him go? That is one exceptionally handsome man. Anyone know his stats? Saw Dutch Girls yesterday. Did you notice a very young Mr. Wickham also on the hockey team? Tom Hanks is one of the best. Acting and personally. You never seem to hear anything bad about him from any quarter. Quite a feat in this business.

(Evelyn)Michael Clarke Duncan brought tears to folks eyes. Tom Hanks is a great human being ; a national treasure. Agreed! IMO, it was one of the best tributes of this type that I've seen. Those people genuinely love him--every bit was from the heart. What an amazing body of work and diversity of roles Tom has amassed, not to mention that he produced (and directed some episodes of), some of our finest television in recent years--From The Earth To The Moon and Band Of Brothers. Such ambitious, high quality stuff, throughout his career. I can't think of anyone today who can match him. And he's done it all while remaining a devoted family man--proof that you can work hard to be the best at your craft, have tremendous pride in your art, and not sacrifice your principles or your family life. I particularly am grateful to him for honoring our armed forces through his work--especially the men of my father's generation who sacrificed so much. He is a treasure indeed.

One of my family's favorites is That Thing You Do. Roger Ebert said that it seems to have been written simply to make us happy. Tom Hanks wrote, directed, and had a role in it. Good stuff if any of you happened to miss it.

And wife Rita seems to be especially supportive and a collaborator in all his successes.

So are his kids.And he's only 46;doesn't flaunt his wealth, keeps plugging away at quality work despite the fact that he has been overlooked for other Oscars (Castaway, Pvt Ryan). Wasn't he instrumental in heading-up a Korea Memorial in Wash. DC?

No, he's been spearheading the effort for a WW2 Memorial--unbelievably, we don't have one.

(Mari) unbelievably, we don't have one. Not for long. Is being built. I walked past the site last Saturday.

Excellent News! -thanks Eileen

(Eileen) Not for long. Is being built. I walked past the site last Saturday. Eileen, where did they decide to build it? The last time I went down to that area with relatives from out of town, they hadn't started it yet. I recall that most of the controversy centered on the location and its effect on the overall appearance of the Mall.

It's going up just as planned at the far end of the Lincoln Mem'l reflecting pool. They've got alot of space blocked off. Walked up to the wood fence minutes after telling my brother it was on hold. Am glad I'm not the only one who missed the news that it was being built--must have been distracted by all those headline stories about what Michael Jordan ate for breakfast that day. ;-)

A couple of Oscar items in the news today. Here's the first, from Variety: For Your Oscar Consideration ... Already By Timothy M. Gray HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - Think it's too early to start talking about Oscar? Evidently, you're new in town. Award consultants have been hired and studio executives are mulling campaigns as they size up the competition. Since the year hits the halfway point June 30, and because recent Academy Award races have seen a lot of heavyweights from the first six months, it's not too early to evaluate 2002 so far. The January-June period has offered some serious contenders--particularly in the cartoon and foreign-language races. It's possible we've already seen all three feature-animation nominees: 20th Century Fox's "Ice Age," Disney's "Lilo & Stitch" and DreamWorks' "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron." And while IFC's "Y Tu Mama Tambien" and USA Films' "Monsoon Wedding" are not eligible in the foreign-language category, both have potential in other races, particularly writing and direction. Beyond that, it's hard to say. Every year, two or three films drive the Oscar race. Though the eligibility period is now half over, there are no films that are ready to assume that mantle. Some of the following films seem to be good possibilities for Oscar consideration; others seem less likely. But it's worth remembering that a lot of people were skeptical of the chances of "Gladiator," "Erin Brockovich" and "Moulin Rouge"--all of which were early-year bows--until the year-end crop fizzled. This year, possible contenders include Universal's "About a Boy," Warner Bros.' "Insomnia" and Fox's "Minority Report." And the acting so far is strong: Diane Lane in Fox's "Unfaithful"; Hugh Grant and Toni Collette, "About a Boy"; Al Pacino, "Insomnia"; Dennis Quaid, Disney's "The Rookie"; and Ellen Burstyn in WB's "Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood." Among arthouse-niche entries, the work from writer-director Todd Solondz on Fine Line's "Storytelling" was notable, and IFC's "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" has a lot of fans. However, many believe the race for the 75th Academy Awards won't get into high gear until July 12, when DreamWorks' "Road to Perdition" bows. The Tom Hanks vehicle is earning Oscar buzz in a number of races, and past summers certainly have offered some Oscar biggies, including DreamWorks' own "Saving Private Ryan" and Disney's "The Sixth Sense." Last month, the Cannes Film Festival helped start buzz for pictures that will open later in the year: New Line's "About Schmidt," Revolution's Paul Thomas Anderson picture "Punch-Drunk Love" (distribbed by Sony), Universal Focus' Roman Polanski film "The Pianist," UA's Mike Leigh "All or Nothing" and foreign-language offerings from Sony Pictures Classics: Russia's "Cuckoo," Italy's "Respiro" and Finland's "The Man Without a Past." Cannes further whetted people's appetites for Martin Scorsese's long-in-the-works "Gangs of New York" from Miramax. Of course, this season always brings titles that have strong potential in the tech categories: Sony's "Spider-Man," Fox's "Star Wars: Episode II--Attack of the Clones" and "Minority Report," MGM's "Windtalkers" and Universal's "The Scorpion King." As usual, the fourth quarter will see the launch of a lot of kudos hopefuls. In addition to those mentioned, they include Disney's "Moonlight Mile," "Veronica Guerin" and Spike Lee's "25th Hour"; DreamWorks' "Catch Me If You Can" ( Steven Spielberg); Fox's Steven Soderbergh-helmed "Solaris"; Fox Searchlight's Denzel Washington-directed "Antwone Fisher" and untitled Jim Sheridan project; Lions Gate's "Confidence"; Miramax's "Chicago" and "Confessions of a Dangerous Mind"; "The Hours," from Paramount and Miramax; MGM's "A Few Good Years" (starring the Kirk Douglas clan); Sony's "Adaptation" ( Meryl Streep, Spike Jonze) and Sony Classics' Almodovar pic "Talk to Her"; Universal's "Red Dragon," "Emperor's Club" and Curtis Hanson-helmed "8 Mile"; UA's "Nicholas Nickleby"; and Warner Bros.' "White Oleander" and "Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets." And can "Two Towers," the second installment of New Line's "The Lord of the Rings," duplicate the ring-a-ding-ding Oscar attention of the first? While all of those sound like shoo-ins, every studio knows a film can look great on paper but not so good on the bigscreen. And Oscar forecasts are always thrown off by last-minute scheduling shifts ("Gangs," "Perdition," "The Hours" and "Adaptation" all were tentatively scheduled for December 2001, while "Black Hawk Down" was a late addition). Of course, there's always a downside to all this speculation. Many studio reps were horrified at the thought of next year's awards season ("Didn't we just have the Oscars?," moaned one). And a studio marketing rep complained that advance Oscar buzz puts unfair expectations on a picture: "People should see a film and enjoy it without thinking of awards." They're right. But in Hollywood, thinking of a film without thinking of awards is like ignoring the question of box office. It's not likely to happen.

And from THR: Oscar weighing new date Jun. 28, 2002 For years, the annual Academy Awards have been the dominant event on Hollywood's March calendar. But the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences might be on the verge of rewriting that calendar. The Oscars traditionally are held toward the end of March--last year they took place March 25. But at a meeting of the Academy's Board of Governors during the past week, the subject on the table was moving the Oscars up a month so that instead of happening at the end of March, they would take place closer to the end of February. The main reason for accelerating the Oscar season? A hope on the part of some of those advocating the change that it would cut down on the surrounding Oscar campaigns, which critics of the process have charged have gotten out of hand. Other side effects of a change of date: It would move the Oscar broadcast into the heavily promoted February sweep period, and it might also allow the Oscars to get a jump on some of the competing awards shows that have been trying to steal its thunder. Alt ough there appeared to be genuine support among several board members for the change, it is not yet a done deal. And if any change takes place, it's more likely to occur in 2004 than 2003. (Gregg Kilday) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Column about My Big Fat Greek Wedding movie and its success: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hollywoodreporter/columnists/grove/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1528482

A hope on the part of some of those advocating the change that it would cut down on the surrounding Oscar campaigns, which critics of the process have charged have gotten out of hand. OK, so call me a cynic, but won't it just move up the campaigns as well?

Of course, they'd back'm up all the way to the New Hampshire primary or the Iowa caucuses. Pffft!

Thanks Karen for THR article on Greek Wedding "Also, we were very fortunate to have (former studio marketing head) Paula Silver on board to assist with the marketing. Every Monday we have conference calls just making sure that we're not being complacent (and to see) is there anything that we've forgotten. Is there something else we should be doing? We're just trying to think at every point what can we do to keep pushing it and keep pushing it" 1-800-Miramax go hire Paula Silver. "complacent " brings on new meaning re: Miramax Agree about Oscar night. Everybody is out to outsmart them. By the time end of March comes, it's "ho-hum" for the awards.While they're at it they should take a t ip from GG and expand their categories.Comedies, dramas and muscials do not belong in the same "Best Picture" category. THR"... possible contenders include Universal's "About a Boy," Warner Bros.' "Insomnia" and Fox's "Minority Report." And the acting so far is strong: Diane Lane in Fox's "Unfaithful"; Hugh Grant and Toni Collette, 'About a Boy'".. Agree AAB is one of my faves so far. Right up there with Enigma. Sorry folks...me thinks HG & Toni Collette are gonna get an award mention for this one.

This sounds like a *MUST DO* for all your near-Philly pholks: [Moon, scroll over this] The Philadelphia International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival will boast its longest and largest event this year. Over the course of 13 days, from July 11-23...The festival will honor Jennifer Tilly and Udo Kier with artistic achievement awards. In recognition of Tilly's career, the festival will screen several of her greatest films: "The Bride of Chucky", the camp horror classic; the indie ensemble comedy "Relax . . . It's Just Sex"; Woody Allen's "Bullets Over Broadway" for which she received an Academy Award nomination; and "Bound," the lesbian crime caper that has emerged as a favorite amongst 13-year-old boys for its titillating and explicit love scenes.

Karen, thanks for the article on "Greek Wedding." It is a great one! Everywhere you go around here, people are saying to go see it (article even said, "Florida is doing spectacular"). It appeals to one and all. A friend told me that Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson saw Nia doing her bit about her Greek family at Second City and thought she and it were hilarious, so they suggested she write a screenplay about it. Do you know if that's true? As we know, they did produce it.

[Moon, scroll over this] LOL! Miami just had its G&L FF. The Black FF just started. I think Miami has more FF than any other state. We have The Jewish FF, Hispanic FF, Miami FF, Brazilian FF, Int'l FF, French FF, can you believe it! And some we have in Miami and repeated (with new films), in Ft Lauderdale. Plus, I'm sure I'm forgetting some more. Saw the preview to "Road to Perdition" and was not impressed. It ain't Bonnie and Clyde.

(Lora) Do you know if that's true? As we know, they did produce it. That isn't the story I heard, which was that she wrote it and sent it to Rita. BTW, Second City is around the corner from me. (Moon) It ain't Bonnie and Clyde. Was it supposed to be? I don't think so.

(Moon) It ain't Bonnie and Clyde. (Karen), Was it supposed to be? I don't think so. The story line did not grab me. zzzzzzzzzzzz.

YEAY BRAZIL

Run Lola run. I saw the Bourne Report and enjoyed it. There were some major flaws but what film doesn't have them? I'd like to see anyone get from France to Switzerland without ID. It just doesn't happen! You'd think the writer could have done some research!

Rosemary Harris' new play "All Over" by Albee receiving stellar reviews: NY Times Review of RH new play "ALL OVER" by Ben Brantley http://www.nytimes.com/2002/06/28/arts/theater/28OVER.html http://www.nytimes.com/2002/06/30/arts/theater/30WOLF.html by Matt Wolf. Mentions Jennifer. These guys eat actors for lunch!

(Evelyn)Agree AAB is one of my faves so far. i agree.

I saw "Private Lives" in NYC yesterday. Alan Rickman was v.v. good. In his bio/credits, he lists a production or "Hamlet" at Riverside Studios. Does anyone know when this took place? Was this before the one that was cancelled, or in place of it? Colin Colin Colin Colin Colin Colin Colin Colin Colin Colin Colin Colin (It's my anniversary today and I've promised myself not to talk about ODB in front of my DH for the day. Must get the mentions out of my sustem SOMEWHERE!)

It was way before. In fact, Rickman was part of a group that attempted to buy the Riverside Studios which turned into a scandal of sorts called "Rivergate." You can read about it here: http://members.iconn.net/~ab234/Theaters/Riverside.html

Happy Canada Day ...to all our Canadian friends.

(Karen)BTW, Second City is around the corner from me. Have you seen Nia perform there? I guess my friend got the story wrong. I'm glad Nia got her movie made just the same. It's a wonderful time at the movies.

I did read in one of the reviews, that originally Nia performed Greek Wedding as a one -woman autobiographical performance. But didn't say where. Perhaps, it was that as a start and then she worked it up to a full script to present to the film honchos.

OK, you can read all about Greek Wedding here: http://www.screenmancer.com/screentalk/vardalos.htm The one woman show was mounted in LA. Nia was listed as being at Second City starting in 1993 (don't know her end date), but there are no one-woman shows there. It is strictly revue.

Thanks Evelyn, from a Canadian friend. I'm lucky enough to be in Ottawa with thousands of other crazy flag wavers right now. Excellent fireworks tonight.

Karen, thanks so much for the interview you posted on 'Greek Wedding.' Rita apparently went to the LA one woman show of Nia's. Thanks for the reference material, Karen. Evelyn, you figured it out once again before reading it :-).

The Rickman Hamlet was in the autumn of 1993. It was, dare I say, DIRE! A real shame as the case was promising, but the director was insane.

sorry, the CAST was promising.

Saw Greek Wedding yesterday (bought a ticket for TIOBE though--must support that box office); it wasn't filmed in Chicago but in Toronto, the Chicago of the north.

bought a ticket for TIOBE though *laughing* :-D

(Karen)bought a ticket for TIOBE though LOL, I did the same, but saw both! Hey, it was a rainy afternoon ;-). Did you like Greek Wedding? Do you have any comments to make about it? Nia and John were on a repeat of the View yesterday that I happened to catch for the first time, and Nia talked about how the script got written. Rita did go to the one-woman show first and approached her about turning it into a script. Then Tom went another time and loved it and called Nia up and said "we're gonna make this movie." Nia bravely asked if she could play the lead and he said yes! Then she said (jokingly), "and can I have a pony?" LOL! John is adorable :-). Also the guy who plays John's best friend in the movie is Nia's husband in real life.

I thought it was OK. Nothing all that special or new, for that matter. I also have a hard time with Andrea Martin. Don't like her.

Who did Andrea Martin play? Was it the aunt? Sorry didn't study the credits ;-).

I think I just saw Andrea Martin on B'way in Oklahoma . Didn't she get a Tony nom? GW is just a fun summer movie...no award -stuff, for sure. I saw Sum of All Fears. Not bad story...Ben Affleck miscast. Always looks like a cocky frat-kid to me.Ciaran Hinds (Capt. Wentworth *sigh*) gives a solid performance as Russian President Nemeriov and Alan Bates an Israeli. Both sporting accents...when they want a good actor with an accent, they pick a Brit. Clive Owen or Guy Pearce would have made a better Jack Ryan IMO. But then the film wouldn't have made $106+M.;-) TIOBE is nearing $5.M BTW. More than I thought it would make. Hasn't made it to me yet. Local Miramax rep tells me it's gonna come and be around all summer.

A very happy and relaxing 4th of July to all our American friends. Especially this year.

Thanks "Burberry Man". Appreciate your thought.

Thank you, Mark. It's very much appreciated.

(Mari)Evelyn, have you seen the Possession commercials? Lookin' good! They ran them all day throughout the Wimbledon coverage, and the fiom doesn't open for another month and a half. Universal/USA Films knows how to market. Hooray...thanks Mari. Was it all Gwynnie and Aaron or could you see Jennifer and JN?There was a good clip on ET on wednesday night. When I talked to the publicist last week, she said they weren't going to do a premiere; not cost effective. I guess they know where to better put their $$$.

Hope everyone had a happy and safe 4th. Thanks for the thought, Mark. Boston Pops celebration was especially good this year. Anyone else watch it. Very moving.

Thanks for the good wishes, Mark. I saw "Fortune's Fool" in NY tonight. Very good, and I can see why Alan Bates won the Tony. I didn't see Liam Neeson's "Crucible," but I know the part and Bates's role was even more demanding. He has a monologue that goes on and on and on as his character gets drunker and drunker. He goes through quite a range of emotions in the course of the play. Frank Langella (who won supporting actor Tony) plays a "fatuous, infamous fop" to quote Bates's character. BTW, the title has nothing to do with Romeo's line "I am fortune's fool," although I suppose Turgenev probably read Shakespeare. Come to think of it, the title in the original Russian may not even be the same as the Russian translation of Romeo's line. "Fortune's Fool" was good, but if you're going to NY, I'd say to put "Private Lives" ahead of it on your list. But then I like English humor better than Russian. Kate's capsule guide to playwrights: Tennessee Williams--people drink a lot and are sweaty Arthur Miller--Dad screws up the life of at least one family member Ibsen--lots of repressed people Coward--everyone calls everyone "Darling" while drinking cocktails and wearing fabulous dinner clothes Chekov, Turgenev--people yell at each other a lot Shakespeare comedies--based on highly improbable circumstances, often involving mistaken identities Shakespeare tragedies--lots of people die (duels or murder) Shakespeare histories--lots of people die (battles)

ROTF Kate at your guidelines. I have to agree. . He [Alan Bates]goes through quite a range of emotions in the course of the play. I did see the Crucible with Liam Neeson and that was my one criticism of his performance. He's wonderful bombastic, but lacks tenderness when the part calls for it.As Daniel Day Lewis did in the film. ( Even though I dislike DDL;-)) Agree that Private Lives is the most entertaining show on B'way.

Thanks, Mark. I did have a happy 4th. I'm...remembering...family, friends, stangers in a crowd, a pool, watermelon, red, white & blue sprinkles on a cake, hot dogs, potato chips, sparklers, and fireworks. Some of the many things that all go together for a very enjoyable 4th of July.:-) (Kate) Kate's capsule guide to playwrights: But, darling, you don't mention our dear Oscar Wilde. What about our playwright of the moment? :-)

Huge thumbs up for John Sayles' Sunshine State. He is so good (writer, director and film editor), and so is everything about this movie. The dialogue is brilliant and there are excellent performances by the two female leads (Edie Falco and Angela Bassett) plus the entire supporting cast of incredibly memorable and fully drawn characters. I can't say enough about this.

Ruin my morning! For some reason, I hadn't remembered that Miramax had bought the rights to this book. Thought it was another studio. Why me? Why me? I really liked this book and had envisioned Colin and Cate Blanchett (with her Elizabeth red hair) as the leads... Moncrieff picks Miramax 'Rose' By Zorianna Kit Karen Moncrieff -- whose feature directorial debut, "Blue Car," debuted at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival, where it was acquired by Miramax Films -- is in negotiations to reteam with the mini-major on the period thriller "The Rose." Moncrieff is poised to rewrite and direct the project, which is based on the Martin Cruz Smith novel of the same name. It's about a scandal that takes place in 1872 in an English mining town centering on the disappearance of a young cleric. When an American mining engineer, Jonathan Blair, is brought in to investigate, his search takes him below the town's serene surface, deep into the underworld of violent miners and their "pit girls." One such girl, Rose, is the last known person to have seen the missing man. Blair's investigation antagonizes the miners, but when he falls for Rose, the antagonisms turn deadly. Miramax acquired the rights to the book in 1997 for $250,000 and paid Ted Tally $1.5 million to adapt. The project had a couple of directors previously attached, including Danish filmmaker Ole Bornedal and Chinese director Chen Kaige. Moncrieff, who also wrote "Car," is repped by the Sanford-Gross Agency and attorney Karl Austen. She began her career as a soap actress in the mid-'80s on such shows as "The Guiding Light," "Days of Our Lives," "The Bold and the Beautiful" and the now-defunct "Santa Barbara." Episodic work followed on such shows as "Silk Stalkings" and "Diagnosis Murder" as well as the video releases "Xtro 3: Watch the Skies," "Deathfight" and "Innocent Adultery," the latter of which she also wrote. "Car," which will be released by Miramax in November, stars David Strathairn, Agnes Bruckner, Margaret Colin, Frances Fisher, A.J. Buckley and Regan Arnold.

(Karen)Huge thumbs up for John Sayles' Sunshine State. He is so good (writer, director and film editor), and so is everything about this movie. Glad to hear you liked it. I'm looking forward to seeing it when it will come to the Sunshine State this Friday! There was a very good article about Sayles, Sunshine State, it's story, and the characters in yesterday's Miami Herald (go to (I think): rrodriguez@herald.com, arts section, Sunday, July 7 [sorry I can't do it in blue for you from here :-(] )

From THR: Altman, Blanchett spy on 'Mata Hari' July 09, 2002 By Zorianna Kit Robert Altman and Cate Blanchett are teaming up to play a spy game. The conspirators may be Oscar nominees -- Altman's a seven-time nominee, most recently for directing last year's "Gosford Park," and Blanchett garnered a best actress nom for 1998's "Elizabeth" -- but this time they are plotting a project for the small screen, the HBO feature "Mata Hari." With Altman at the helm, Blanchett will play the exotic and notorious real-life World War I spy, whose name is synonymous with espionage. Altman said in an interview that he had always intended the project to be a vehicle for Blanchett and decided that HBO offered the perfect outlet for it because he is planning a three-hour tale, nearly the same length as the cable network's recent "Path to War," a White House view of the Vietnam War directed by the late John Frankenheimer. "To do it the way I plan on doing it would not fit a theatrical release because it would be too long a picture," Altman said. "It's such a big undertaking that if we did it at HBO, we could do it in a full three hours. It pleases my soul to be able to go after an audience that will get what we are doing." Altman, who generally finds a new twist to whatever genre he tackles, envisions telling this particular spy story as a "Rashomon"-like saga because, in his view, Hari was "a different person to different people." According to history, Hari was an exotic dancer who moved in the highest circles of Europe. She was recruited by the French secret service to mingle with the Germans and collect military secrets. She later may have become a double agent, working for both the French and the Germans, exchanging information between the sheets. She was eventually arrested by the French, who condemned her to death by firing squad in 1917. Altman said that, in his "Rashomon" version, "you'll see one man tell his view of her where she is a spy, and then in a parallel version you'll see another person's view where she is not a spy. The stories will not be told in a linear way but will all be shuffled together." Julie Talen ("Harriet the Spy") is writing the script, which Altman and Donna Gigliotti ("Shakespeare in Love") will executive produce. Altman, who expects to see the first draft of the script by November, plans to shoot the project in Europe, complete with battle scenes involving mustard gas attacks. "Mata Hari" reunites Altman with HBO, for whom he directed the 1988 HBO miniseries "Tanner '88" and the 1985 telefilm "The Laundromat." Altman, repped by ICM, most recently directed "Gosford Park." Before going into production on "Mata Hari," Altman said he plans to shoot Killer Films' "The Company," about a company of ballet dancers, which could go into production as early as the fall. Although Blanchett worked in television in her native Australia, HBO's "Mata Hari" will mark the first time she will have worked on the American small screen. The actress has played several real-life characters, including the title roles in "Elizabeth" and the upcoming Walt Disney Co. feature "Veronica Guerin," about the slain Irish journalist of the same name. In last year's feature "Charlotte Gray," she played a Scottish woman who joined the French Resistance during World War II. In addition, she is playing Galadriel in the three "The Lord of the Rings" features. Blanchett is repped by WMA. The role of Hari was made famous by Greta Garbo in the 1931 MGM feature of the same name.

Here's another interesting tidbit: HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - Sharon Stone is readying for a theatrical comeback, circling not one but two indie projects. The 44-year-old actress, who has not starred in a hit movie since her starmaking turn in 1992's "Basic Instinct," is negotiating to join Rupert Everett in the spy drama "A Different Loyalty" and the family picture "Liar's Club." Should Stone ink for both pictures, it is not clear which would shoot first. [...] "Loyalty" is the true story of Eleanor Philby whose husband, super-spy Kim Philby, infiltrated British intelligence for the Russians before defecting to Moscow in 1963. Marek Kanievska ("Where the Money Is") will helm the feature, which is scheduled to shoot in Europe this fall. ~~~~~~~~~~~ In case anyone misses what is *interesting* about this, it is of course the relationship to Another Country, in which Rupe not only played a character based on another one of that era's spies (Guy Burgess), but Marek Kanievska was the director of that as well.

Thanks Karen for the *interesting* clue. It would have blown by me! ..."Donna Gigliotti ("Shakespeare in Love") will executive produce. " Friend of YKW...there are supporting role possibilities in both of these projects for Colin. Congrats to HBO for launching out with the biggies.And Robert Altman & CB for consenting to do a TV drama. It would have been the perfect vehicle for "Sunshine".But I doubt if arrogant European directors would condescend to American Television.

To continue the Dr. Who discussion here, I knew I had seen something recently about a new project, but couldn't remember who until I stumbled back to where I found it (on aintitcoolnews.com): Buffy man for Doctor Who Anthony Head set for Dalek-busting duty He may regularly deal with all kinds of ghouls and vampires, but Anthony Head � best known to many as the genial Giles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer � might be moving into the Dalek-busting business. The 48-year-old actor is reported to be the favourite to play Doctor Who in a new series of the sci-fi classic to be broadcast by the BBC next year. Head was considered for the last incarnation of the Timelord in 1995, but lost out then to Paul McGann. This time, however, the Beeb are thought to be keen to make Doctor Who accessible overseas and Head, a familiar face to a generation of American youngsters, is thought to be just the ticket. To this end, the makers have also brought in David Fury, an American script-writer who works on Buffy. He said, 'They want to do what we do on Buffy � produce 22 episodes a year and sell them internationally. I'm helping to take Doctor Who into a whole new universe.' Better get hiding behind that sofa. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Tuesday, July 2, 2002 Rupert Giles Vs. The Daleks?? I am � Hercules!! �Buffy the Vampire Slayer� star Anthony Stewart Head and top �Buffy� writer-producer David Fury teaming for a new �Dr. Who� series? What�s not to like?! The only thing cooler, one supposes, would be if Joss Whedon actually merged Dr. Who into the Buffyverse - with Giles himself hiring on as the new timelord. A reader writes: Dear Harry, News hit these green shores this morning which seems to solves the problems of the world - or at least a few sci-fi franchises. On one hand, The BBC want to continue 'Doctor Who' but up the budgets, which isn't feesable without an American audience. On the other hand, Anthony Stewart Head wants to spend time in the U.K with his family, but loves the cult audience that 'Buffy The Vampire Slayer' brings him. With t Whedon and the BBC STILL to announce a date for 'Watcher' 'Giles' or 'Ripper' - he may have found the perfect answer... in a feat of impreccable casting, someone decided to put those hands together and consider something that makes this fanboy sign in post-orgasmic fullfillment: Giles taking on The Daleks!!! But the BBC's Dr. Who Website suggests all this is fairly premature: Following the usual media frenzy regarding this weekend's rumours of new Doctor Who, we'd just like to clarify a few things. Dreamwatch magazine, Ananova and the Daily Express are all reporting that we're making plans to involve actor Tony Head and members of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer production team in a new 22 part series to celebrate the Time Lord's 40th anniversary. Dreamwatch quotes Buffy producer David Fury as saying: "They want to do what we do on Buffy, produce 22 episodes a year and sell them internationally. I'm helping to take Doctor Who into a new universe." Whilst the Cult team quite like the idea of Tony Head as the Doctor in a show guided by members of America's finest fantasy production team, the BBC aren't currently making any such plans. No I'm not trying to turn this into a sci-fi site, but thought I'd post this since it came up and there seem to be a couple of fans amongst us. I can see AH in this role much better than Colin.

Uh Oh! closing tags

(Dorine)I can see AH in this role much better than Colin I can see v.many in the role other than-please God, no, Colin Thanks for the article, Dorine.

Another interesting tidbit: Two years ago, Miramax was the hungriest book-buyer in Gotham, devouring stacks of quirky, literary titles, including two books on the invention of television, a novel by French writer Didier van Cauwelaert, and David Liss' first novel, "The Conspiracy of Paper." But its appetite for such fare has dulled as the mini-major has entered the franchise business, focusing on productions with wide family appeal. Miramax co-chairman Harvey Weinstein assured Daily Variety the mini-major is still committed to books. "Miramax will always buy what it likes first. If it's good, I'll buy it." But Weinstein acknowledged a focus on fantasy books, calling kids epic, "Artemis Fowl" the company's best book acquisition to date. "I'm in the kids' business," he said. ~~~~~~~ http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&ncid=805&e=19&cid=849&u=/variety/20020710/media_variety/books_writestuff_dc_1

Harvey:"I'm in the kids' business," Smart guy...He's also in the business to make money. Kids pay to go to movies...over and over again. Adults rent the videos.Once;-)

(Evelyn)Adults rent the videos.Once;-) With certain NOTABLE exceptions, for which we buy DVDs! So Harvey's in the kids' business, now? What happened to the days when Miramax was fighting the ratings people over "R" ratings?!?

He got bought by Disney and improving the bottom line and being able to live the lifestyles of the rich and famous became numero uno priorities.

Oh BTW, if I cared--and I definitely do not--I could go check out Mikey, master auteur of the large and small screen, as they're shooting Missing Mind, et al., around the corner.

Re: Mighty Mouse:" as they're shooting Missing Mind, et al., around the corner." Is HBO gonna carry it again next season?*Barf* For those who are JE fans. Trailer of Possession is up on the ET Online website. http://www.etonline.com/movie/a11209.htm

they're shooting Missing Mind, et al., around the corner. I'd be worried about property values if I were you. :) The oh-so-charmingly named "Sex Monster", also featuring Mariel H., is running on CMAX tonight. Gag me with a remote control.

Another Dr. Who diversion: (Lisa): I don't know a D*** thing about Dr. Who although I have heard the name. Is it worth enlightening us out of the loop or should we wait for more definite info????? Dr. Who was a long-running, campy BBC TV science fiction series featuring a time and space traveler called "the Doctor". I think it was originally intended for kids, but it has quite a cult following among adults as well. I couldn't find an FAQ about it, since all the sites seem to assume that you wouldn't be looking for a Dr. Who site unless you were already a fan, but the official web site is at http://www.bbc.co.uk/cult/doctorwho/ Dorine: I also have a soft spot for Peter Davison as the Doctor. I really liked him in Campion as well. Liz

Thanks so much Liz for posting the link for the Dr. Who site! I see after just a few minutes perusing the site, I could spend a significant amount of time hanging out there and reminiscing. Forgotten that I liked that theme music a lot, too. I'm being such a geek, but it is fun!!

(Dorine)The 48-year-old actor is reported to be the favourite to play Doctor Who Ah....Colin is just too young for the part--going after "older" actor! ;-)

Harvey wasn't "kidding." In Variety today: As part of its push into kids entertainment, Miramax Films has unveiled its first computer-animated feature for children. The picture, based on the Lego Co.'s Bionicle line of action figures, will be produced jointly by Miramax and Lego Media, the Danish toy company's film and TV arm. Miramax is eying a 2004 theatrical release. Aimed at boys 8-12... http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&ncid=805&e=1&cid=848&u=/variety/20020711/film_variety/film_lego_dc_1 Goodbye money-losing costume dramas and literary adaptations...

(Dorine)The 48-year-old actor is reported to be the favourite to play Doctor Who (Amy) Ah....Colin is just too young for the part--going after "older" actor! ;-) LOL! Seriously, I'd much rather see ASH in this role than CF. ASH has a quirky sort of charm that would probably work well in a project like this. And if he could play Frank N. Furter.....

( (Evelyn)Adults rent the videos.Once;-) (Kate) With certain NOTABLE exceptions, for which we buy DVDs! ....and go to certain NOTABLE movies over and over again!

(Minkee)....and go to certain NOTABLE movies over and over again! I'm going for #11 tonight. I fear it will be gone tomorrow-for good.

(Karen)The picture, based on the Lego Co.'s Bionicle line of action figures, will be produced jointly by Miramax and Lego Media, the Danish toy company's film and TV arm. This is the same as the new P&P production we've been hearing rumours about ;_D

(Karen) This is the same as the new P&P production we've been hearing rumours about ;_D Goodbye money-losing costume dramas and literary adaptations... Don't laugh those teeny movies pay for all the Brit losers. He never lifted a finger for Iris either despite the Oscar noms. IMO he figures he gonna lose $$$ right from the beginning.

I see our little Legos made a return visit. Which one is Darcy? ;-D (Evelyn) Don't laugh those teeny movies pay for all the Brit losers. But it appears they're not going to do those Brit losers anymore.

(Linda) I'm going for #11 tonight. I fear it will be gone tomorrow-for good. I just returned from #5. Actually paid for what I intended to see, Sunshine State, but noticed the summary and ad for TIOBE that had been posted on the Current Features bulletin board lying on the counter, just as I paid, and was informed tonight was the last night. After noting SS was quite full (as I was almost late), the decision of what to see was made for me. No twistin' my arm though ;-). A friend who I took to it last week loved it and said last night she wanted to go again..oh well. Linda, I can't imagine all the finer details that come alive after seeing it so many times. I was getting quite detailed in my observations and I'm sure I missed some. I got to the point tonight of noting Colin's hair (in a close-up from overhead), while dyed darker, appeared to have highlights in them. Couldn't decide if it was done deliberately or some of his hair didn't hold the dye.

(Dorine)I got to the point tonight of noting Colin's hair (in a close-up from overhead), while dyed darker, appeared to have highlights in them. Couldn't decide if it was done deliberately or some of his hair didn't hold the dye I have noticed that too-especially in the outdoor scenes with natural light. You are right, Dorine, I have especially enjoyed catching new things each time I see it. BTW, v. wise choice tonight on your part. I was not feeling so bad last week, because I was counting down the days to HS-but now it looks like it will be later rather than sooner.*sighing heavily* Just have to be content with the fan fiction. v. steamy indeed.

(Dorine)Couldn't decide if it was done deliberately or some of his hair didn't hold the dye. I thought those were the parts where the roots didn't hold the hair. ;-D I also went today in case it is the last day on the big screen. (Didn't have the heart to ask.) Before going to see the movie, three friends came for a very EARNEST tea complete with: cucumber sandwiches, tea cake and muffins. We had a great time. Hope to do more of them when I get the video.

(Caribou) Before going to see the movie, three friends came for a very EARNEST tea complete with: cucumber sandwiches, tea cake and muffins. We had a great time. Hope to do more of them when I get the video. You found cucumbers...even for ready money? Yeah! LOL That sounds like fun actually. I will do that with my friend who didn't get to see it again. She's Jamaican, not sure if they do tea, but with the British influence, it won't be a foreign concept to her.

Went to see TIOBE for the last time tonight as it's leaving my area theater and I can't find it listed anywhere around me starting tomorrow so I guess this is it for the film. Too bad as I really enjoyed the boost seeing him larger than my TV screen gave me. Well onward to HS and Gidget Goes to London.

My Husband, of all people, was looking at a site that I had never heard of before. Of course, this is nothing new, as I am pretty much clueless to most sites out there. But, this one is about mistakes in film and television. http://www.nitpickers.com/ So, is this a site that everyone knows about but me???? :))))) I looked up BJD and found some comments. Nothing on TIOBE and I stopped with that one.

Well, I have finally decided to unlurk myself onto an unsuspecting audience! Was delighted to see that TIOBE has now doubled the number of theatres, from 2 to 4, in our area so I have a much better chance of seeing it again. I managed to convince DH to take me into town to see it a couple of weeks ago because none of my lady friends was interested (I apologize to one and all for my poor taste in friends) Now, if DH would only go fishing or off to a classic car show, I could steal away to see TIOBE again without having to create some remarkably clever subterfuge! I want to thank whoever it was who posted the note that Fever Pitch was playing on Showcase here in Canada last week. I managed to tape it and have watched it several times since. I was slow to warm up to it at first, but with additional viewings, I've become quite enamoured.

Welcome Sandyw Don't give up on your friends...More than one convert has been made by this board. Glad you decided to join us online.Check on 158 film discussions. We're about to start one soon and we want you to join us. (Lisa)I looked up BJD and found some comments. LOL. Thanks.I never saw that website. BJD has 17 errors. The diary store at the end is true...I've been there. It is a jewelry store. The snow snafus the boss caught first time we saw it at the premiere.

Welcome Sandy!!! gee, I hope I did that right.. lol.. thanks for delurking yourself, m'dear! (handing Sandy "drooly bib")

Welcome, Sandy! Now, if DH would only go fishing or off to a classic car show, I could steal away to see TIOBE again without having to create some remarkably clever subterfuge! One suggestion that was made to me in similar circumstances was the non-specific shopping trip. You know, "I need to go out and run a bunch of errands and get some things." Then come home with a few groceries.

Welcome Sandy

(Rik)One suggestion that was made to me in similar circumstances was the non-specific shopping trip. You know, "I need to go out and run a bunch of errands and get some things." Then come home with a few groceries. I made that suggestion to you, Rika. Did it work? I don't even bother trying to explain anymore. ******************WELCOME SANDY******************** I was afraid to ask at the theater last night if Earnest would still be around. So I waited for the paper this morning and, YES, it has survived another week. Looks like a dozen for me.

(Linda) I made that suggestion to you, Rika. Did it work? I don't even bother trying to explain anymore. After you gave me that suggestion, I realized I had an even better option available at the moment. Because of the nature of my job, my schedule is extremely flexible during the summer - no fixed work hours, in fact. It's very easy to duck out of my office for part of the afternoon and head for the theater. But this fall when I need to be in the office a little more regularly, I may adopt your plan so I can see HS an appropriate number of times. I was afraid to ask at the theater last night if Earnest would still be around. So I waited for the paper this morning and, YES, it has survived another week. Looks like a dozen for me. We're getting it for at least another week here in DC too, so I suppose I'm going to have to go again. I'm really starting to get bored with the Algy/Cecily scenes, but a Firthette's gotta do what a Firthette's gotta do!

(Caribou)Before going to see the movie, three friends came for a very EARNEST tea complete with: cucumber sandwiches, tea cake and muffins. We had a great time. Hope to do more of them when I get the video. What a great idea to get you in an 'Earnest' mood! Wot? No bread and butter ;-)? You are making cucumber sandwiches, tea cakes, and muffins be seen in the best houses lately ;-)! I just marvel at how often CF discussion seems to trickle and wander onto other topics so naturally ;-)! I had to check a couple of times what thread I was on ;-D. Please forgive us for being firthilous, Karen ;-). Welcome, Sandyw to all-things-Firth!

Sandy W!!! Glad to see you've delurked now. Didn't take you long at all. Listen up to these ladies. They'll have you skulking about in a trenchcoat, going from theater to theater, supporting whatever CF movie is playing in no time. ;-D (SandyW) I apologize to one and all for my poor taste in friends Apology accept. Hopefully, they have some other laudable attibutes to make up for such severe character flaws. Remember, you can pick your friends, but not your relatives. ;-D (Lisa) So, is this a site that everyone knows about but me???? :))))) There's another one, might be called 'moviemistakes' that's very popular. I'm pretty sure it pointed out Bridget change from fishnet hosiery (tarts & vicars party) to regular when she got to Daniel's place. ;-D (Rika) but a Firthette's gotta do what a Firthette's gotta do! Didn't I just read something similar to this a little while ago? ;-D

(Karen) Glad to see you've delurked now. Didn't take you long at all. Listen up to these ladies. They'll have you skulking about in a trenchcoat, going from theater to theater, supporting whatever CF movie is playing in no time. ;-D It's much too warm for a trenchcoat just now. But dark glasses and a baseball cap do the job nicely, and are cool and stylish for those hot summer months! (Rika) but a Firthette's gotta do what a Firthette's gotta do! (Karen) Didn't I just read something similar to this a little while ago? ;-D No doubt - I'm sure it's a very popular saying in these parts. There's another one, might be called 'moviemistakes' that's very popular. I'm pretty sure it pointed out Bridget change from fishnet hosiery (tarts & vicars party) to regular when she got to Daniel's place. ;-D That was also on the Nitpick site. What I love is when the nitpickers get it wrong. Anybody can make a mistake, but if you're going to pick on the mistakes of others it's a good idea to check your own facts! For example, somebody complained about a problem with an inside-out suit jacket sleeve after the fight in BJD.... except the complainer said it was Daniel who strode off, continuity-challenged jacket slung over his shoulder. Reminds me of a review of the BJD DVD that helpfully informed its readers that CF had played Daniel Cleaver in the P&P miniseries, which the reviewer thought made him an odd choice to play Mark Darcy in BJD, but "the casting seems to have worked out fine." Yeah, thanks for clearing that up. Well, I'm off to the market with ready money - ever since SandyW mentioned the cucumber sandwiches, I've quite craved some.

Oh my gosh! My family is gone for the weekend.. hmmmmm... think it's about time to put in my teeth and visit West Nashville, again. =D Gee, with them being completely out of the house, I could go for double.. mmmmm... double.. dimples... I mean, double. So, just to be kind to my inquisitive nature, can you ladies tell me where you're from? Some I've figured out by the posts, others I haven't a clue about. I'm so jealous of you Ozy women.. I wish I lived close enough to have coffee with someone who shares my affliction. (laughing)

Jeanie, what a shame Nashville and Washington aren't closer together! DH is out of town as well - we could have had our own CF film festival!

Hey Jeanie, I'm jealous of the Ozy women too as I cannot go into Sydney today and join them for lunch and CF!!!!!! :( Welcome Sandy W. :)))) Keeping fingers crossed that TIOBE will be migrating here. After all, Gosford Park is still in more than one theatre in my area, thanks no doubt to the Blue Hair Contingient that must still be flocking in to see it. Am going to check on the screen status now..................

I am just throwing this in here......Friday afternoon "Road to Perdition" (sp?) was available for sale from your friendly Chinatown table top.(No sign of TIOBE).

The Road to Perdition is a classic. Will sit in the annals of great films right along Godfather. Beautifully crafted.Superb acting; Stanley Tucci and a minute with Cirian Hinds solid stuff.Jude Law as a demonic killer. Ugly? Mygod, not many actors would trade pretty boy for this look .Doesn't have many lines...but those piercing eyes says it all.As the NY Times said"not without gore, but it chooses its bloodiest moments with exquisite care." A cinematic wonder; Sam Mendes is a genius *and* he was damn lucky to find that kid.

Welcome Sandy W! Jeannie: I'm from France but I live in Alaska where the theaters are clueless and will not bring TIOBE. Grrr! Which brings me to my next point: those in the LA area, which are the area codes of the theaters that play/played TIOBE? I'm going there at the end of next week and the NY/DC folks are giving me hope that it may still be playing around LA but I have no clue about the different area codes to do a search (the one I'll be in never showed TIOBE as available)

Thanks everyone for the warm welcome! Just got back from TIOBE, my second viewing. DH went off to watch a soccer game (or football match, as it were) so seized my opportunity to indulge myself. As if having rented MLSF, RV and COF for the weekend were not enough! DH is completely mystified. TIOBE opened this week at a small theatre nearby. Perhaps due to the strike at both our local newspapers, the word had definitely not been spread far and wide. There were perhaps a dozen of us in the theatre; a 30ish couple, three unescorted women of a certain age (35 no doubt), a 50ish couple, and strangely, a teenaged girl with two teenaged fellows no less. Very eclectic mix but, from the shared laughter, we were of one mind. I must confess I adore ODB at his most mischievous. His expression in the mirror while escaping on the train to London captured me from the outset. Similarly with the wink to Cecily while refusing his permission for her to marry until she became 35. Loved RV for the same reason. Cannot for the life of me understand why he took the role in COF. There was nothing to the character - must have been for the money.

Evelyn Happy Belated Birthday

OMG, gulping in abject horror!!!

*sniff* Can't even post my annual Annie tribute, as is too late. :-( A very belated Happy Birthday Evelyn!!

How did the Drool Oracle miss THIS birthday.... Happy Birthday, Ev! I hope you had a very lovely day. Sorry, Ev, with the few minutes I have up my sleeve, I preferred to send you your bday wish rather than practise on my html skills. You'll get your bday drawings from me as soon as I come up for air again! Enjoy!

I'm blaming Moon for not sending out the party invites I knew about it and was all ready. I hate no-shows!

EVELYN "let's celebrate with some Indian food, but PLEASE, no candles on the birthday cake!" Hope your day was great!!!!!!!

Thank you all...Hey...better today than never, I say. 'sides....You know what the 13th was?.....Anniversary of Black Day.... Day YKW bolted from "Hamlet"leaving me with a fistful of tickets. Grrr. Thanks Sue, who called... Moon who ducked into a cyber-cafe in Italy to send me a greeting. Eileen who sent a hilarious card. Karen...you know Rafe is one of my faves...Lovely to have him here. Paul Ashford, the party animal..."But please, Paul...watch the napkin near the candle, next time". Thanks Mink and Lisa (I love mangoes too;-))... Chapt 17 would be a nice gift too, Lisa..*hint*, hint*

Ok Evelyn, because it's your Birthday, here are the requested mangoes..... Wait a minute, you didn't mean that kind of mangoes, you meant these....... Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!! And I promise no more images today!!!!

Happy Birthday Evelyn. the 13th is my mother's and harrison's too so...... Hope you had a good one (sorry about your bad Hamlet memory!).

Happy Birthday Evelyn! Today is also Rembrandt's birthday. And on this day in 1965, Joan Rivers married Edgar Rosenberg. And Iris Murdoch was born on this day.

Happy Belated Birthday Evelyn!! Hope you had a wonderful day! *big hug*

What's on Harrison's head???...never mind. Amy thanks a lot. He's a fave too. Look at that smile.Thanks. Liiiiisa...Yummy mangoes (slurp) and chutney too ;-))

Evelyn--Plain, but sincere belated wishes for a very Happy Birthday. This is good, though, to string it out!

Happy Belated Birthday, Evelyn. Hope you had a wonderful day and best wishes for a great year ahead. I hope you are enjoying the images as much as all of us!

Odile: those in the LA area, which are the area codes of the theaters that play/played TIOBE? It's playing in 3 theaters around L.A. ... http://alliance.zap2it.com/custom/latimes/main_template/0,1442,90012_20_4_28556,00.html

Evelyn, Had they only told me sooner of your birthday, I wouldn't have had to arrive on foot!! ----- Incidentally, is there a birthday list available anywhere?

(Sandy) I must confess I adore ODB at his most mischievous. His expression in the mirror while escaping on the train to London captured me from the outset. Isn't that divine? I like him best in the London segments. He gets more of those devilish moments than he does later on, and he heaven knows he wears formal clothes well! Hmmm.... I feel another visit to the theater coming on.

Rika -i think Marcia had one at one point. But that would be at least a couple of years old. All the newbies wouldnt be on it. Maybe we should start a new one. Any one want to be Birthday List Queen???

(EsBee) Any one want to be Birthday List Queen??? If one is needed I'll volunteer, but if it's better to have it in the hands of someone who has been around longer (or if it is a hereditary title ;-D) that's fine too.

Terry, I'm not as old as Rembrandt or as obnoxious as Joan Ribers...but thanks for remembering.. Esbee, Linda, Meredith ,Rika...*Hugs* for remembering. You're right Meredith...why have your birthday only one day...string it out for days later. Rika the "On Foot" is one of my favorite scenes and that smile is the "blue soup" smile for sure. Thanks guys...all of you....

Rika - i think the birtday list was kept by the KeepSake Mistress- along with all the other lists. Karen do you want to subdivide the responsiblities??? Anyone have an opinon on this?

Happy Birthday! Evelyn, hope you had a great day and that the coming year is one of your best. :-)The ever-late Caribou is in good company this time. :-)

Late or not...thank you Caribou.Nice to be remembered. And I forgot to say thanks to Heidi for her greeting & who is off to UK to meet up with some Firthettes. Wish I could be with you all. Fond rememberances of 3 DOR '99. Be on the look out for the debutante's dad ;-))

Evelyn, More belated Birthday wishes from another somewhat new newbie. I'm an infrequent de-lurker. That's because by the time I get on-line, see where the posts are headed and come up with an absolutely witty, on-point comment I read further and find out it's already been co-opted, usually with much more [insert word I can't put my finger on] than I couls manage. However, the birthday wishes, though belated, are heartfelt. I like the idea of a birthday list. I also wondered if we have a general geographical list. From the posts I can sometimes tell where people are from, but I think it would be great to have a better idea... could make group viewings of future CF projects a possibility for those of us whose friends and family just don't quite get it.

I'm late! I'm late!.................to give a very important B-day greeting! Happy Birthday, Evelyn! (a boring, non-illustrated greeting, but heartfelt nonetheless ;-))

Hello everyone. I've been lurking about for a long time now and I've decided to de-lurk to say Happy Birthday to Evelyn. I don't know any fun web-tricks either, but maybe by next year I'll be able to present a more drool-worthy present to her. and I agree that Ch.17 of UMS would be a great present for her (I love birthdays with presents for everyone!) :-D

Ah, another 13th-person. Happy birthday, Evelyn. You are blessed with outstanding taste, in more ways than one. ;)

Happy Birthday Evelyn to a fellow Cancer, a good sign to be! (but I am biased)

From 162 (Karen re AG): Colin's character is a politician who gives up his seat to run for election in the House of Commmons. I expect this means that he gives up his title to run for election to a seat in the House of Commons. There is the alternative that he could give up his seat in the Commons to become a Lord, but that's a bit unlikely, being a complicated procedure and not involving any hereditary aristocracy. The other meaning "seat" could have is his country estate, but I don't see any likely reason for him to give that up. I brought this here as I do not want to start an OT discussion on British constitution over there, and so that I could wish Evelyn belated good tidings.

Is it necessary to give up the title? (she ask ignorantly even though it does make sense)

Whoopee...all the greetings makes me Happy, Happy... In this impersonal world...there are no boring greetings, folks. Love to hear from my fellow Firthettes. KathyC. , ElizabethS, Dorine, EmmaB, thanks for thinking of me. AND ...ta rah....now we have Megs on board now. MEGS Thanks for the greeting and delurking. How about that? I plan to lord this over everyone. How many birthdays bring out a lurker:-)) And it wouldn't be the same without Burbery Man. Thank you Mark... Great idea about a geographical list. I'll be happy to be the keeper of that one. Wadda ya say boss?

Megs!! Good to see you've delurked. You can't go back now. It is habit-forming. :) If anyone would like to compile lists, be my guest. You don't need permission from me.

Karen: Is it necessary to give up the title? Yup, being the House of Commons, you have to be a commoner (not a lord) to get into it. Though you could hold high office from the House of Lords, it's just not thought fair ... blah blah blah

What about the honorary--not hereditary--titles? Not applicable?

Welcome Megs; and almost shamelessly, I'll add my name to the late well-wishers for Evelyn's special day: happy belated birthday (with the 3-day extension it must have been quite the labor for your mommy :) ) Thank you so much MarianneC for the LA times site about the TIOBE showings. It made my day: I taught me to hope as I had scarcely allowed myself to hope before... that I might see TIOBE in a theater! Thanks a bunch!

Welcome Megs!!! It's great to have you here!

But you get to take your title back after your stint in the HOC -correct? it's not a give up forever? And where does the PM fit into this? Is he the head of the both Houses or just the HOC? -i know i learned this in College (took a History of England Class and everything) but ten years on, it's beginning to go fuzzy....

Happy VERY belated birthday, Evelyn! Hope it was wonderful. Mark, thanks for clearing up the title/seat thing. I knew something was wrong with the original statement, but I couldn't figure it out (and was too lazy to think about it). Wasn't there a famous MP who refused a title because it would have meant he/she couldn't be in Commons?

Thank you for your Alaska greeting Odile. Would you mind sending some of that Artic stuff down to your SW cousins who are sweltering? Have a great time in LA viewing TIOBE. Seeing ODB on the big screen is always a treat...even SLOW looked good. Kate ...all birthday wishes are appreciated.Nice to be remembered anytime. *Big smooch*

Evelyn, so sorry to have missed your birthday! Hope I am not too late for the celebration. Hope you had a very happy birthday and are having a very happy extension of it! Just wanted to send these birthday wishes before I was really late. Will now go looking for an appropriate pic and hope my limited html skills will not fail me yet again. Happy birthday week, Evelyn!

Evelyn, again happy birthday! Hope I don't do this too 'Quick-ly' & 'Pannick' afterwards ;-): I heard drool was late celebrating Evelyn's birthday. Well, I have a new service that will never be late and put in all the stops for a happy day! And I will personally pick her up, too! Happy belated birthday, Evelyn!

ROTF.Quick and Pannick to the rescue!! Brilliant, Lora. That cutie-patootie could scoop me up any time.*sigh*. Thanks:-))

Kathy C and Megs Welcome and stick around to enjoy the party.

Ya mean the parTEE's over? Nevah! From one famous blonde to another... Happy Birhhhhthday, Mr. Presi...I mean Evelyn, happy birhhhhthday to YEEEWWWW!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVELYN AND MANY MANY MORE!!!!!!! WELCOME KATHY C AND MEG. IT'S SO MUCH FUN HERE. YOU'LL REALLY HAVE A GOOD TIME. ALL THE PARTICIPANTS ARE WONDERFUL!

Kate: Wasn't there a famous MP who refused a title because it would have meant he/she couldn't be in Commons? I think it's actually happened a few times. The titles that get offered are non-hereditary (life peerages), and often go to older politicians after years of service. This allows them to transfer from the Commons to the Lords where they have less influence (but still some), and don't still have to run for a seat, and kiss up to the party leader etc. Can one resume a hereditary title after giving it up? Hmm, I thought not, but I'm not really sure.

Hey...this birthday goes on. Who needs it on the right day? Mobetta belated:-)) From one blonde to another....Thanks Eileen . Wish I had her bod. Pam thanks for thinking of me.

Re MP giving up title. - Recently retired Labour MP Tony Benn gave up his hereditary title (in the 1950's, I think) in order to be able to be elected to the House of Commons.

On a completely different topic, I have to admit I have a bone to pick with ODB. I have been perusing the archived articles and interviews at The Bucket, and frequently saw writers refer to his time living in Canada as "the backwoods of British Columbia" or "the wilds of Canada". And now I see an article quoting ODB himself in which he refers to it as "serious wilderness" "in the middle of nowhere" and citing the dangers of grizzly bears and the inability to go for walk in safety!! Give me a break!!! You would think we are hardly out of sod huts and buckskins! Granted, there is wilderness to be found if you go looking hard enough for it. But really, grizzly bears being a danger on a 20 minute walk?! I had to drive three days north (on paved roads, not cart paths) towards the Yukon and Alaska before seeing my first grizzlies and I've lived in Vancouver and the surrounding area for more than 25 years! Aparently he lived "3 hours inland" from Vancouver. Seeing as I am more than an hour inland and still live in the suburbs, I'd really like to know what he considers wilderness! (More than a block to the nearest Starbucks!) Come on CF. Set the record straight and apologize for besmirching one of the most beautiful, and safest, places on earth to live. Now I will get off my soapbox and resume kicking myself for not having come to appreciate his fine work (and other qualities) until a few months ago LONG AFTER HE FINISHED SHOOTING HS HERE! Ouch.

(Sandy) Apparently he lived "3 hours inland" from Vancouver. Seeing as I am more than an hour inland and still live in the suburbs, I'd really like to know what he considers wilderness! (More than a block to the nearest Starbucks!) LOL. ODB is prone to exaggerate occasionally;-) I've been to Winchester and it's not exactly the boonies.An elegant city with a world renowned cathedral. The folks from St. Louis didn't fare out too well either:-)

Was what, though, 10-12 years ago? The suburbs might have expanded considerably since then. But I've always smelled a touch of cabin fever in those statements anyway, and it does provide a polite way to avoid discussing more personal reasons why the situation might have ended. It's a tasteful excuse, so I'm willing to give him a pass on this one and call it more of the usual obfuscatory dissembling. Not nice to slam the ex-es, especially where children are involved. All the bear business does is make me wonder if someone had a habit of carelessness in securing the cans after taking out the garbage. ;)

One thing we do know for certain, he was fully functional in his wildness days!!!!!! :)

Now, that might have been a Freudian slip.......

(Elizabeth)But I've always smelled a touch of cabin fever in those statements anyway, and it does provide a polite way to avoid discussing more personal reasons why the situation might have ended. I agree, I always thought the comments about bears, etc. were tongue-in-cheek. His humor can be so absolutely dead-pan that one can mistake it for a serious comment. (you can't see that flash of dimples in a print interview) I think the feelings of isolation were real, however, and more than geographic. He was far from work, and I think that was more of a problem for him than for Meg. Also, didn't he once make a remark about being "essentially English" and that being away from London was part of the problem for him? (I often think about that remark when the comments about LD's domination of him. SHE has given up living in her native country for him, so both sides make concessions. I know they visit a lot, but that isn't living there.) Also recall his recent remark about the house and the family and "having it all in place." Ev, did he really refer to Winchester as the "boonies"? It most certainly is not boonies. It even has a Cafe Rouge. And do you think choosing to work at the Donmar was predicated on the presence of a Starbucks in the building? ;-)

The Emmy nominations were announced this a.m. The list is way too long, but in the non-series categories we have: Miniseries Band Of Brothers � HBO Dinotopia � ABC The Mists Of Avalon � TNT Shackleton � A&E Made For Television Movie Dinner With Friends � HBO The Gathering Storm � HBO James Dean � TNT The Laramie Project � HBO Path To War � HBO Lead Actor In A Miniseries Or A Movie Albert Finney as Winston Churchill (The Gathering Storm � HBO) James Franco as James Dean (James Dean � TNT) Sir Michael Gambon as Lyndon B. Johnson (Path To War � HBO) Kenneth Branagh as Ernest Shackleton (Shackleton � A&E) Beau Bridges as Michael Mulvaney (We Were The Mulvaneys � Lifetime) Lead Actress In A Miniseries Or A Movie Vanessa Redgrave as Clementine Churchill (The Gathering Storm � HBO) Angela Bassett as Rosa Parks (The Rosa Parks Story � CBS) Blythe Danner as Corinne Mulvaney (We Were The Mulvaneys � Lifetime) Laura Linney as Iris Bravard (Wild Iris � Showtime) Gena Rowlands as Minnie Brinn (Wild Iris � Showtime) Supporting Actor In A Miniseries Or A Movie Jim Broadbent as Desmond Morton (The Gathering Storm � HBO) Michael Moriarty as Winton Dean (James Dean � TNT) Alec Baldwin as Robert McNamara (Path To War � HBO) Don Cheadle as Chuck (Things Behind The Sun � Showtime) Jon Voight as Major-General Jurgen Stroop (Uprising � NBC) Supporting Actress In A Miniseries Or A Movie Sissy Spacek as Zelda Fitzgerald (Last Call � Showtime) Stockard Channing as Judy Shepard (The Matthew Shepard Story � NBC) Joan Allen as Morgause (The Mists Of Avalon � TNT) Anjelica Huston as Viviane (The Mists Of Avalon � TNT) Dame Diana Rigg as Lehzen (Victoria And Albert � A&E)

I thought Victoria and Albert should have been listed. Though all of the mini-series were excellent. Glad to see that Showtime and TNT are inching along the original movie path.Though HBO has 4 out of 5 noms in this category. Maybe Armadillo (Aug 3) will show up next year for A&E;-)they're falling behind. And poor PBS..they don't seem to have a chance against the big boys of cable. Thanks Karen.Wonder if KB will win again.I didn't think Gambon or Finney were *that *good.

Emma, I am reposting your message above on 162 because this could possibly be relevant to CF.

Hi Everyone: Evelyn is the Armadillo on A&E August 3 the one with Colin in it? Forgive my ignorance but I saw it as one of his productions but didn't know anything about it. Thank you. I hope KB wins again too. I think he deserves it. Fine actor.

(Pam) Evelyn is the Armadillo on A&E August 3 the one with Colin in it? Forgive my ignorance but I saw it as one of his productions but didn't know anything about it. No. It was hotly rumored that he was going to star in Armadillo, but it never came to fruition. There was another rumor that he bolted to take Conspiracy. But we all read the book and the boss even had a page in the making. James Frain is in the starring role of Lorimer Black.Directed by Howard Davies (recently directly Noel Coward's Private Lives on B'way and West End. With awards. Quite a cast. Catherine Mc Cormack, Stephen Rea, Hugh Bonneville, Neil Pearson, Produced by Sue Birtwistle and Script editor Susie Conklin (both from P&P). You can see it had CF written all over it. Great story by Wm Boyd. We all enjoyed it.Got good reviews in UK. Eagerly anticipating the viewing on A&E. ~~~~~~~~~~ I'm gonna quit getting the books that he is rumored to do. Just finished the Sylvia Plath/Ted Hughes story :-((( Bummer. We were banking on that one for the fall.

If you wonder why MB has a show on HBO and why HBO renewed that dreck for another season, the answer is contained in this article: http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&cid=855&ncid=579&e=9&u=/variety/20020719/en_variety/television_albrecht_dc_4 fourth from the last paragraph.

So you think Albrecht was MB's agent at ICM? AS a professional comic one would think he could be more discriminating . Interesting article.

Very likely. He was "in" with that group (Carrey and the Wayans) and directed the Wayans in an earlier film. They're buddies. MB has mentioned CA's name before in articles as the one who encouraged the project.

Who is MB?

(Karen) HBO renewed that dreck for another season Yuck, I didn't know they did. I tried to watch it last year and couldn't make it through a whole episode. I didn't know about any of his other stuff then either. (Sandy) Who is MB? Mike Binder. If you go to imdb.com and type in his name, you get a pic and a bio.

Sorry to be so late with the Happy Birthday, Evelyn. I hope it was a great one.

Thank you, Lucie Longest celebration, I've ever had. Hey...bring on Belated Birthdays!!

(Evelyn)I'm gonna quit getting the books that he is rumored to do. I already did. I really could see him in Armadillo, and I was so disappointed that he didn't get it, I decided to delay my book-buying impulses. Just got a letter from my [elderly] cousin in England. She told me that P&P had been rebroadcast recently. She has no idea how much time I spend on line or what I do when I'm there/here...

Hi Everyone, Kids are all gone for the day, chores done and I am all alone. Well not really, have a CF marathon going. So far Playmaker, for obvious reasons, Apartment Zero, for excellent acting, RV and now FP and will keep going until he or I can't go on any longer. Now going back to heaven.

Pam, that sounds like a lovely way to spend the day! Do give my best to ODB. I have a question about PAL vs. NTSC videotapes. I've heard that some US VCR's can play either format. Does anyone know how widespread that capability is? I have a tape whose cover leaflet says it is in PAL format, but I can play it on both of my VCR's, and the manuals for the VCR's don't mention the ability to play PAL tapes, so I'm skeptical.

Re NTSC vs. PAL videotapes. In the UK I believe all relatively new VCRs are able to play both formats. I would assume this also applies in the US. I have never had any problem playing NTSC format tapes bought from the US. (Many of DB's older movies are no longer available in the UK). DVDs are another story. My new player will not play Region 1, although more expensive Multi-region players are available. I wish I'd known that a few months ago, since there are far more titles available from the US.

(FanPam) So far Playmaker, for obvious reasons LOL You want company? Whatta way to spend the day (wondering where I can absolutely convince DH and son they need to be...?)

(Rika) I've heard that some US VCR's can play either format. Does anyone know how widespread that capability is? Very limited. You have to go to special stores to buy multiformat VCRs. You won't find them at Best Buy or Circuit City. In my ethnic neighborhoods, where they sell all manner of appliances in the other voltage types, you can get such VCRs and the multi-region DVD players, universal TVs, etc. I am kind of surprised that you can play the PAL tapes on your VCR. What brand of VCR do you have? And are those "original" PALs or have they been converted to NTSC and the covers are copies from the real tape? (Janet) I would assume this also applies in the US. No, but I wish it were the case. We're very parochial when it comes to such things. It's our way or the highway. You know, just like all the Americans who travel to foreign countries and expect everyone to speak English. ;-D

(Karen) I am kind of surprised that you can play the PAL tapes on your VCR. What brand of VCR do you have? And are those "original" PALs or have they been converted to NTSC and the covers are copies from the real tape? To clarify, I'm not at all sure that it is a PAL tape. I'm almost certain that both the cover that came with the tape and the label on the tape are originals. But as you point out, that doesn't rule out the possibility that the tape is an NTSC copy (with an original label attached). From what you've said about the rarity of PAL-compatible VCR's in the US, I'm guessing that's the case. Mine are fairly standard-issue Philips and Sony models, nothing special. Thanks for the information!

Had to take a break from my CF Marathon. Even the air conditioner isn't cooling me down now and the eyes are getting blurry and the hormones acting up. Have been meaning to mention this for a few days. Watched Billy Elliot for the first time one night last week, for lack of anything else on the tube that I hadn't seen a million times. Ladies I'm giving you a treat to the eyes. If you should get a chance to watch it pay close attention to the man who plays Billy at 25. It's at the end and only for a few minutes BUT WHAT A TREAT TO THE EYES AND SENSES. THE BODY ON HIM IS TOTALLY OUTRAGEOUS. Had to research a little bit. His name is Adam Cooper and apparently is a principal dancer of the Royal Ballet. UN &&&& BELIEVABLE. AMAZING. Has any one else seen him or am I lost in a haze somewhere? I don't usually react to things like this, but this man just knocked me over. I hope you get a chance to see and enjoy him. Of course, no comparison to our man, but a very close second to be sure.

Re: PAL tapes Did you buy them from a place in England or from a seller on eBay. If the latter, it will be a conversion. I remember the ballet dancer at the end very well. He was definitely on way too briefly, but then again, those guys can be rather lovely. I used to adore Baryshnikov and went to the ballet a lot.

I'm more interested in music than dance, but I just recently saw the Baryshnikov/Gelsey Kirkland "Nutcracker" that was first broadcast about 25 years ago. I hadn't seen it for years - my mother got it out to show my niece, who is going to be Clara in her ballet school production this December. His power and magnetism were marvelous. I do recall the dancer at the end of "Billy Elliott", and that he was very nicely sculpted, though actually I remember his make-up more than anything else!

Are other folks still having problems accessing http://www.spring.net Please let me know if I need to make changes!

The make-up of the Swan was interesting. He is indeed well sculptured. Just was a nice interlude. And I'm glad to know there are ladies with exceptional taste in agreement with me.

Anybody see Sex & the City last night? LOL.Paris Theatre was featured.Told you the best part was the outside and the foyer.The seats...ug . Looks like there is going to be a difference in lifestyles. Our gals are maturing...hate to see the old "devil may care" attitude leave. they were funnier when not so philosophical.

Except Charlotte is going in the opposite direction. She's loosening up. Didn't you just love Samantha's revenge (and that cop's response!) and her flashing at the Fleet's In party. She was the highlight of last night's episode, plus the recurrent theme of boobs.

(Karen)Didn't you just love Samantha's revenge (and that cop's response!) Yes.ROTF when she puts the flyer with the boyfriend's pic through the shredder! Loved Carrie's outfit in the rain running down 59th St in front of the Plaza. The sailor was adorable and could they dance...whew!

Combining our previous thread with 162, I guess this should be posted on 161 ;-D From Ananova (source: The Sun) Heather Graham is to make a guest appearance in the new series of Sex And The City. The actress will play herself in the show, which goes out in the UK next January.

Anyone else notice that the unbelieveable Mike Binder is the Tom Cruise character's homicide object in "Minority Report"???? How'd he get that plum job???

(Chris)...Tom Cruise character's homicide object... Well, it's a tough job, but somebody has to slaughter the goats. ;)

Thought I'd add this here rather than sully 162... In re aintitcool...uh, no it's not. Lonely much? BINDER: Are you married at all? Excuse me, it's a legally bound, and therefore binary, state. You either are or you aren't. A goat, I tell you, a goat. Blecch!

My apologies. I had missed the link to the MB interview. Sigh, all is revealed (gag me with a spoon!). http://www.aintitcool.com/display.cgi?id=12805

Interesting article in the LA Times about American actors doing accents. Makes some excellent points that I've always held as well, like:It's a risky move for a marquee name with an established career, says David Alan Stern, a former Hollywood dialect coach, now professor of dramatic arts at the University of Connecticut. "If your career and your public persona is based on a very strong identity, certain elements of which never change, basically you're perceived as a personality more than you're perceived as an actor. It's always a huge risk if the public is going to accept you, regardless of whether it's performed well." Accents spin actors out onto thin ice, but when rendered articulately they can be critical to the story line and add as much atmosphere as location shoots and special effects. For "K-19," the producer, star and dialect coach agreed that Russian accents were necessary because of the film's global casting. "I felt it was the best decision," said dialect coach Howard Samuelsohn. "We had British and Canadian and Icelandic actors and a couple of real Russians, and Liam Neeson's Irish and Harrison is all-American. Kathryn [Bigelow, the director-producer] thought they should all sound like they're from the same world." (As opposed to those old World War II movies in which the Yanks sounded like themselves and the Nazis sounded like Prince Charles' polo team. Or as in last year's "Enemy at the Gates," another military tale in which some of the Russian and German officers had accents but the Red army heroes spoke like Brits--Joseph Fiennes sounded like he went to Oxford; Jude Law sounded like he went to a few pubs.)That Prince Charles' polo team comment is reminiscent of our discussion of Conspiracy's lack of accents. ;-D The entire article can be found here: http://www.calendarlive.com/top/1,1419,L-LATimes-Movies-X!ArticleDetail-66851,00.html

(LA Times)Kathryn [Bigelow, the director-producer] thought they should all sound like they're from the same world. Good point. I do find the variety of accents distracting in Valmont. But if they had all done a French accent while speaking English, it might have sounded funny. Some actors have a good "ear" and can do accents easily and fluently. Others struggle and it shows (anyone see Robin Hood?). Unless an accent can be done so well that it sounds natural, it can be distracting, especially when the actor is an established "personality" with a following that has preconceived notions about him/her.

(Kate) But if they had all done a French accent while speaking English, it might have sounded funny. But don't you see, that is where our American bias emerges. A French person speaking English will sound like that, but we assume an American putting on a French accent, while speaking English, is comical. (Confusing, I know, but I'm sure you get my meaning.)

(Karen) A French person speaking English will sound like that, but we assume an American putting on a French accent, while speaking English, is comical. True, Karen, but how many times has Gerard Depardieu gotten a real role in an English speaking film? In France, he's known as one of the top actors, but in America, he's "My Father the Hero." Oh, and can someone clarify why we hate MB? I'm a little lost...

(Karen)That Prince Charles' polo team comment is reminiscent of our discussion of Conspiracy's lack of accents. ;-D You mean when we said they sounded like a bunch of Brits wearing fancy dress:-D Accents is the new wave.If an actor can't do an accent...don't hire him. That's part of acting. BTW Bruce Cox who won the Emmy played his role in Nurenberg with a perfect German accent.He's British , me thinks ;-)

(Megan) In France, he's known as one of the top actors, but in America, he's "My Father the Hero." Actually, Gerard D came to mind immediately because he has acted in English-language films. Perhaps you may not be aware of what happened when he tried to make the crossover into mainstream American films with Green Card. That (and his looks) had more to do with anything IMO than with his accent, which we have accepted in the past (Maurice Chevalier or Louis Jourdan to name but two). Oh, and can someone clarify why we hate MB? I'm a little lost... Remember, there is no "we" at this place. Each of us has his/her own opinions. :)

Luhrmann, De Laurentiis Launch 'Great' Race Wed Jul 24, 6:46 AM ET By Peter Bart, Variety Editor-in-Chief HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - It will probably be the most expensive picture ever made -- whoever ends up making it. The formidable team of Australian director Baz Luhrmann ("Moulin Rouge") and Italian producer Dino De Laurentiis ("Hannibal") believe they will win the race to make a sweeping epic biopic of Alexander the Great, and they hope to start shooting in January. They have a greenlight from Universal Pictures and Twentieth Century Fox, along with the cooperation of a movie fan named Mohammed VI, who happens to be the 39-year-old king of Morocco and who will contribute some 1,500 members of his army to the production. If the Luhrmann-De Laurentiis team wins the Alexander race, they will have beaten back some imposing competition. Oliver Stone had said he intends to start his Alexander biopic Oct. 16, first starring Heath Ledger, but now with Colin Farrell, with funding coming from Intermedia. Martin Scorsese had announced his Alexander movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio, but now is intent on first making a movie about Howard Hughes with DiCaprio. Yet another Alexander buff, Mel Gibson, had hoped to make a multi-part film for HBO, but his company, Icon, has also put off that project. Gibson and Luhrmann, of course, are fellow Australians. Why the focus on Alexander? Luhrmann, one of the most theatrical of contemporary filmmakers, sees Alexander as "the world's first rock star ... a fantastic freak of nature." Before his death at 32, he ruled over the largest area of the world ever to fall under the control of one man. To Luhrmann, Alexander was a spectacularly charismatic figure, whose battles against the Persians utterly changed the course of world history. While Luhrmann hasn't locked in a budget, he intends to build upon the epic quality of the story. "The poetry of the landscape, as well as the epic battles, will be the stars of the picture," he said. To this end, the Moroccan king has started construction of a studio to house the production, whose final budget may total north of $140 million. Though reminiscent of panoramic productions of old, Luhrmann is persuaded the movie will speak to the present. "At this moment in history when we are desperately trying to figure out what's ahead, it is important to turn to the lessons of the past," he said. Luhrmann considers himself to be in pre-production and is working closely with screenwriter Ted Tally, whose past credits include "Silence of the Lambs." Tally's script is based on novels by Valerio Manfredi. Ridley Scott initially was interested in the Tally script, but shifted to other projects. "Dino and I are completely bonded on this film," said Luhrmann, who is half the age of De Laurentiis. The fabled Italian producer is responsible for a long list of historical sagas, including "War and Peace," but he insists, "This movie will be a different sort of epic. Baz has his own unique vision. He is a complete original." Luhrmann has yet to cast Alexander, but there's speculation that, if the Scorsese and Stone versions are aborted, one of the stars of those projects may surface in his film. Final elements of the deal were completed Sunday at a dinner hosted by De Laurentiis at his house in Bel Air. The arrangement calls for a 50-50 studio partnership with Universal distributing in the U.S. and Fox overseas. "We are completely supportive of Baz's vision," Universal Pictures chairman Stacey Snider said. "For 10 years Baz has nurtured the idea of doing this project. It was consistent with his long-term aim of following his musicals with a series of films that, in his words, would view an epic landscape through a new cinematic vocabulary." "Alexander succeeded in achieving his goals beyond the scope of anyone's imagination," Luhrmann said. "But achieving absolute success brought him absolute failure." "We've been talking about this film with Baz for years," said Tom Rothman, co-chairman at Fox Studios, which backed "Moulin Rouge." "A project of this magnitude needs the support of two studios that are at the top of their game, and we all passionately endorse Baz' vision."

(Terry the disbeliever) Are other folks still having problems accessing http://www.spring.net Please let me know if I need to make changes! Yes, we are, unless you've merged spring into the google search page. :-/

Alexander the Great! OK Colin time to dress like Marc Antony and ride the chariot. How cute those legs would look.

(Karen)A French person speaking English will sound like that, but we assume an American putting on a French accent, while speaking English, is comical. Right. A foreign accent is often used to make something funny. I actually meant funny as in "odd," if the compromise for a group of actors with disparate accents would be to make them all do a French accent. Speaking of accents, does anyone remember "I Claudius"? The upper-class Romans had upper-class Brit accents, and the slaves were cockneys!

Since Gerard was mentioned up above, this appears rather timely. From Reuters: French Actor Depardieu Likes Roles with No Sex Wed Jul 24, 7:19 PM ET MADRID, Spain (Reuters) - French actor Gerard Depardieu, whose film credits range from tragic love stories to children's comedies, thinks roles without sex are "fantastic." Promoting a Spanish version of the French comic Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra -- in which he plays the pot-bellied, Roman-loathing Gaul Obelix, Depardieu said he liked the film because there was no sex. "It's fantastic...With comics there is never sex, even when there is a love story...they are enormously prudish," said the 53-year-old Depardieu, who has made over 120 films since 1965. "There is no double meaning or misunderstanding or suffering." In Mission Cleopatra, Asterix and Obelix travel to Egypt to help an architect who has to build Queen Cleopatra a palace in three months. Depardieu is not convinced it will take off in the United States. "They don't have the same sense of what a hero is," said the actor, who has tried his gallic charms on Hollywood in films like "Greencard." "I don't like positive heroes," Depardieu said "They bore me." ~~~~~~~~ And, they repulse me. ;-)

I didn't think this warranted mention on 162. From THR: Minnie Driver has set her sights on the telly again. The British actress has been meeting with American TV network executives to explore the possibility of doing a series. Driver starred in several projects on British television at the outset of her career, including the BBC mini "The Politician's Wife" and the series "My Good Friend," but has been entirely focused on features since her Oscar-nominated performance in "Good Will Hunting." She next stars in the romantic comedy "Hope Springs." Driver is repped by ICM and the Firm.

I did a page update today, hope it shows up in Netscape. Let me know.

Nope, still not there. :-(

Darn, will you do a "view source" and tell me what you think I should change?

I had no trouble accessing www.spring.net using IE6. Does the page show differently in Netscape? Liz

From Murph: A&E has put up a site for Armadillo, which will be shown on Saturday, Aug 3. http://www.aande.com/tv/shows/armadillo/index.html Man, oh man, that helmet is just like the one I had at the Bucket. *sniff*

We might have been really fired up about Saturday Aug.3... It should have been Colin's role.*snif*

But it was his choice that it's not, right? *another sniff*

I've been evaluating pictures lately. Seems besides being a B-man he seems to prefer ladies with dark hair. I know JE was an exception, but MT and Wife are dark. IMO he also seems to respond more to the actresses with dark hair he plays opposite, seems to be more of a chemistry with them with the exception of RZ. Good chemistry there. Just a thought.

The Stage Newspaper report that TOM HANKS is in talks with Donmar Warehouse artistic director Sam Mendes to perform at a West End Theatre.

Tom Hanks in the West End would be quite a draw. Any idea of the play? Hope all of us on the East Coast are ready for the heatwave. It's 2:00 a m and 90 degrees. Keep cool everyone.

FanPam, tried to email you, but incomplete address. Can you give me a computer ringy-dingy please! It is unmercifully hot :-(

Just a quick note of thanks to all of you for sharing all of this great CF info and photos as of late. Just wanted to share with you a great website I found just by accident at filmfour.com. I have had a lot of fun there lately viewing a few film shorts which viewers can see in their entirety with a quick no fee registration. I actually found a short that CF's brother had a lead in called Truel (1999) which although only 14 minutes long is a very interesting and intelligent romantic period piece that could have been easily expanded into a feature film. Another cute one is Work Experience with Kathy Burke. Regards and happy viewing.

Thanks Donnamari for the info. Will definitely look into it.

Interesting (though probably futile) development on one of my pet peeves: Hollywood Takes on Ageism Wed Jul 31, 3:28 AM ET By Dave McNary HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - The state is about to take on Hollywood's obsession with youth. The California Commission on Aging has formed a coalition with the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and Women in Film to battle lack of representation of people over 40 in film and TV. The new organization -- the Industry Coalition for Age Equity in the News Media -- will hold a news conference at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Los Angeles Film School in Hollywood. Former SAG president Ed Asner will be among the attendees. Recently released SAG stats showed only 35% of all SAG roles in features and TV in 2001 went to performers older than 40. The 2000 U.S. Census showed the country's median age was 35.3 years. State Sen. John Vasconcellos, chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Aging and Long-Term Care, will host the event. He has authored Senate Bill 953, which is designed to lay the groundwork for dealing with the doubling of the state's residents over 65 to 6.5 million by 2020. The bill's provisions include a mandate that the state join the coalition "to work with the entertainment industry to change cultural attitudes and perceptions of aging and older adults, with the goal of making the workforce more receptive to older workers."

" The bill's provisions include a mandate that the state join the coalition "to work with the entertainment industry to change cultural attitudes and perceptions of aging and older adults, with the goal of making the workforce more receptive to older workers." Bottom line: "aging and older adults" don't go to movies. Maybe the venerable State Sen. should author a bill mandating older and aging folks to attend movies.

(Evelyn) Bottom line: "aging and older adults" don't go to movies. I'm not convinced and think it has some elements of a 'chicken or egg' theory. Hey, when you get discount rates, you go, but why would any mature person want to see the youth-oriented fare out there??

Read this for a laugh (continuing in same vein): http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&cid=680&ncid=680&e=3&u=/usatoday/20020731/en_usatoday/4320626

(Karen) but why would any mature person want to see the youth-oriented fare out there?? Well, not American Pie or Cheech 'n Chong. But I find it refreshing to see young pretty actresses. I'm not a big fan of "On Golden Pond" stuff. Agree that there is an inordinate percentage of ten flicks. But hey several of them are paying my fave actors: RF with J. LO & CF with HG and Amanda.

Hilarious article, Karen. Sounds like something William Safire would write in the NY Times. He missed the most popular one, though: "cool"

(Evelyn) But I find it refreshing to see young pretty actresses. I'm not a big fan of "On Golden Pond" stuff. Why the extremes? Plenty of actors in their 30s and 40s (especially women) who can't get a job, except to be cast as somebody's grandma.

My prerequisite for a good movie is the acting and story. Regardless of age of actors involved. There's just as many more mature-oriented movies that are crap as there are youth-oriented. At first didn't like all the early-twenty syndrome flix, but since this is the majority age-range in my home have learned to watch them, noting many have merit and good acting. Was surprised to find that I was one of the people laughing the most in the theater watching "There's Something About Mary". But definitely agree maybe story lines could be made more mature-frinedly. There's only so many road trips you can go on, or so many cheerleading competitions you can attend. But adored Clueless and Legally Blonde. Good stuff. All depends on what's out there. Oh for the good old days of American Graffitti and Animal House. Now those movies bring back fond memories and are definitely classics in my book. But do you know how lucky we are, because we actually know the difference between quality stuff and crap. The youthful movie goer of today hasn't had the great experiences of being brought up on Gone With the Wind, mine have seen it but I see no identifying with culture from them on it. The first time I saw it was in a theater and a homework assignment from my 10th grade history teacher. It's there ignorance and a sign of the times that they can't identify culture. They don't appreciate Top Hat or anything of that gender. They do however like Cary Grant in Arsenic and Old Lace and James Stewart i Harvey, so maybe there is hope. As I explained to them, in the old days, and before my time I might add, movies were so exceptionally well acted and scripted because other than radio there was no entertainment, so the studios really made great stuff to entertain the public. My mother adored the classics so I was brought up on them. Bette Davis was a daily occurrance, so learned to like and appreciate good entertainment or went to bed very early every night as children did not rule the TV in those days. They do enjoy Broadway however and we go whenever we can and I collect all the musical and stage drama videos I can, we watched Cats Sunday, just to have an alternative for them. This might be a reason we don't attend the more modern movies so much because we know what's good and why waste the money on something thats not good. I agree Hollywood definitely needs to make more attractive vehicles for people of taste and culture, I prefer that to more mature, to get them into the theater. I honestly feel they can't replace the talent of the older actors with whats available now, so often cringe when I hear they are remaking something that was great, always wondering who they are going to get to perform equally to the original and realizing they won't as evidenced by the failure of so many attempted remakes. Ladies we have experienced the best of times as far a movies go because we have had the opportunity to see it all whereas our offspring haven't, unless you actully shove it down their throats as I have. Ye gods, sorry I went on so long and honestly didn't realize I had such passionate feelings about this until I got started. Loved the article. He definitely forgot cool which was awesome and whatever combined. What I started out to post was do you realize if you fall asleep enough times with a CF movie on your phraseology begins to change? It must work like a Berlitz tape. My kids are beginning to look at me funny and I'm even beginning to notice it. I'm all astonishment, quite determined and greatly pleased!!!

Oh dear, am I disagreeing with Pam twice in one day? I'm sorry, but I just had to speak out. I suspect that I'm younger than many of the fabulous Firth fans here (I clock in at 20), but I feel that there are some of us "young people with culture" out there. I've always like theater and good drama, my favorite music is classic rock, and if I have to sit through even one more PREVIEW of a Freddie Prinze Jr. movie I think I'll gag. My parents have never pushed the arts on me, they don't really interest themselves in anything of that nature. My dad did show me Animal House when I was a girl, and I loved it, but most of the other comedies I appreciate were from my own exploration and hearing things of good reputation. I can tell the difference between something that's "awesome" and something that's "whatever." I'll admit that my brother can't, but I have hope for him yet, and I wonder if your parents liked Animal House when it came out...?

(FanPam) What I started out to post was do you realize if you fall asleep enough times with a CF movie on your phraseology begins to change? It must work like a Berlitz tape. My kids are beginning to look at me funny and I'm even beginning to notice it. I'm all astonishment, quite determined and greatly pleased!!! I haven't fallen asleep with one on, but just watching them has had this effect on me. I find myself thinking in an English accent sometimes, too. Bizarre.

Interesting news item about Miramax, which contained this: Weinstein says his brother Bob told him, "I'm carrying the place. Even though you make money. I've been making 65% of the profits, you've been making 35." http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&cid=848&ncid=805&e=3&u=/variety/20020801/film_variety/film_miramax_dc_6

From BBC news: Stars 'want to direct' at RSC Kenneth Branagh and Sam Mendes have said they want to work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, according to its new artistic director. Michael Boyd, who takes over the RSC's directorship from Adrian Noble in March 2003, told The Stage newspaper that both had indicated they would consider directing productions in the future. Boyd said that both Branagh and Mendes had been consulted by the selection panel during the search for a replacement for Noble. RSC chairman Bob Alexander spoke to the pair about their interest in directing productions for the company. "I know Bob had conversations with both Kenneth Branagh and Sam Mendes, and I would bite their arms off, no problem," Boyd told The Stage. "I think it's great. I think it is sincere on both their parts and I think its is about an expression of care, although I am sure couched up in 'let's see what you get up to'." Theatre darling Mendes has a strong reputation for directing interesting yet popular plays and has previously directed Troilus and Cressida and Richard III for the RSC. During his spell as artistic director at London's Donmar Warehouse he became the darling of theatreland, attracting Hollywood stars such as Nicole Kidman to appear. Mendes also has a best director Oscar under his belt for the critically acclaimed American Beauty. Kenneth Branagh is one of the most recognisable faces to emerge from the RSC, having joined for a short period in 1984. During his distinguished career he has directed plays and films from diverse genres including Much Ado About Nothing and Peter's Friends. His latest production, The Play What I Wrote, has received rave reviews during its London run. Boyd has been an associate director of the RSC since 1996, winning an Olivier Award for his production of Henry VI. One of his plans once he takes over is to reintroduce the idea of an ensemble cast, which he believes lies in the roots of the RSC. Controversial reforms He sees it as the foundation for bringing through new talent as well as attracting big names. He is reluctant to share his views on pushing through the controversial reforms of his predecessor Noble. Among those was quitting the RSC's London home at the Barbican in favour of touring productions. There are also plans to demolish its Stratford-upon-Avon site to build a Shakespeare village. Amid the changes 100 staff were made redundant and others were put on temporary contracts. Boyd said: "In principle I am in favour of big changes as will be evident with me but I had a different view of how those changes might be brought about."

"Weinstein said the company will generate $22 million-$23 million "on the first round of 'Kate & Leopold' domestically, and we predict we'll do $30 million over the next couple of years. The same thing is true with 'Serendipity."' Thanks Karen. This is where he'll make it on TIOBE. IMO he knows some of these little films will never make budget cost on theatrical release and plans on video. So why bother spending $20M to promote a $16M film?

I hope these few articles are just the tip of the iceberg to sway public opinion: Scott's World -- UPI Arts & Entertainment By Vernon Scott United Press International From the Life & Mind Desk Published 8/1/2002 5:07 PM HOLLYWOOD, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- Nowhere is the chasm between talent and profits more clearly delineated than in Tinseltown, where the bottom line takes precedence over art. Movies employ a throwaway economy where the latest and hottest, no matter how transitory, determine who and what will be seen in major films. Chief victims of filmmakers' revolving-door tactics are actresses propelled to stardom, then all-too-soon consigned to has-been status when the next bare-midriffed damsel slinks on camera. This common policy is a dreadful waste of the industry's most valuable commodity: stars, particularly disposable actresses. A sorry example is the fate of female stars who pass the age of 35 and fall into an abyss of unemployment or who are relegated to insignificant roles. No one exemplifies these victims of the bottom line more than Meryl Streep, perhaps the greatest living actress on the planet. Streep, at 53, remains one the most brilliant performers anywhere, nominated 12 times for Academy Awards, winner of two Oscars. She is a national treasure, perhaps the best performer in America's major popular art form which she has elevated by her presence in some 24 major movies since "Julia" in 1977. Were she an English actress, Streep would be Dame Meryl, an honored national figure accorded as much respect and -- far more importantly -- as many plum roles as she chose. Look at the indefatigable Maggie Smith and Judi Dench, the late Sybil Thorndyke and Edith Evans. Hollywood's preoccupation with youth has produced blatant ageism that turns away enormously talented performers purely for economic reasons. How many stars do we have who are over the age of 60? Count those under 35 and dare to compare their acting competency with Streep and others of her age. Actors can look forward to much longer careers than actresses, a clear bias fostered by box-office receipts. Cases in point are Clint Eastwood and Gene Hackman, both 72 years old. They continue to work in major mainstream movies because they are superlative performers on screen AND at the box office. Streep, 20 years younger than they, has been driven to appear in fewer, lesser roles in inferior scripts. Who is to blame for what appears to be sexist prejudice? There are some who point a finger at screenwriters who fail to write stories dealing with middle-aged women because they aren't big box-office draws. Others offer the explanation that actresses over 35 don't make exciting, promotional news in their private lives as do half-dressed, publicity-viable young exhibitionistic cuties pushing the envelope. In the end, the blame, if such it can be called, may be laid at the feet of the moviegoing public. Apparently the populace prefers to see unlined faces, unthickened waistlines in youthful stories even if the performances are subpar. However, the ever-important bottom line is the genuine culprit for the disappearance of fine, seasoned actresses from major motion pictures. Movies have become entirely a youth-oriented art form because that's where the big bucks lie. When a half-baked comedy like "Austin Powers in Goldmember" earned $73 million in its opening weekend this month with a youthful cast for a youthful audience, why would any producer in his right mind not follow suit? No matter how much a polished drama such as Steven Spielberg's "Road to Perdition" may try to compete in such a market, it didn't earn a third as much in its opening week. Typically these days, neither film included a major role for a leading actress, much less a middle-aged actress. Then there is Julia Roberts, this decade's America's Sweetheart whose fingerprints are on every good script that comes down the pipe. Everybody loves Julia, and properly so, but she, too, will find herself facing professional Armageddon before long. Julia turns 35 this October. Other admired actresses are fully engaged in coping with the stormy latitudes of age burnout: Cher, Meg Ryan, Sally Field, Sissy Spacek, Ellen Burstyn, Jane Fonda, Faye Dunaway, Goldie Hawn, Glenn Close and more. Some Academy Award winners who haven't lost their talent, though their youth may be spent, cannot find any jobs worthy of them: Elizabeth Taylor, Shirley MacLaine, Julie Andrews, Joanne Woodward, Sophia Loren. In the not-too-distant past, Katharine Hepburn and Bette Davis were exceptions. They worked well into their 70s. They were exploitable names with hosts of fans who rushed to see their performances. Today it is different. Streep cannot compete with "Austin Powers," "Stuart Little," "Men in Black" and "Lilo & Stitch." Neither could Hepburn or Davis, for that matter. Movies today are not about soaring drama, inspiring performances and the human equation; they are about spectacle, shock, overwhelming action and special effects. These are not the province of Streep nor any other actress, no matter her age or experience. And that's a downright shame.

The reason these kid films earn so much money is because young kids see them over and over again and then the parents buy the vid. Hepburn and Davis couldn't make it either with this competition. TV has a lot to do with it. How many of these actresses would make Entertainment Tonight or E! channel. I'm not saying it's right, I'm saying it's part of the culture. The only hope for these older actresses is cable; made for TV movies. Older generations watch tv and wait for movies to come to television. No matter how much a polished drama such as Steven Spielberg's "Road to Perdition" may try to compete in such a market, it didn't earn a third as much in its opening week. Sadly, I agree. Correction: it wasn't Steven Spielberg's; it was Sam Mendes

It is Spielberg's in the sense that his company made the film: DreamWorks. However, there was a time when women counted at the boxoffice, when they went in droves, in the '30s and '40s, the days of the matinee idol and the strong female leads, which Bette Davis, Katherine Hepburn, and Joan Crawford are but a few of the many actresses having substantial careers. Sometime in the 50s, this started to change as television spread through America and women seemed to relegate the decision on their leisure activities to their spouses or boyfriends or whoever. They stopped going to movie matinees alone, became afraid of the connotation. They let this happen to themselves. They allow Hollywood to speak condescendingly of "chick flicks" as inferior products. Seems totally bizarre in that several women are very prominent in the studio systems, heading two majors (see Time mag), yet they push the money-making agenda to prove what.....???? That they are "one of the boys." Just my own hare-brain theory.

Megs please don't take offense. I'm just noting what I see in my children and their friends. Not you. I applaud you. We were just saying that they don't make enough movies to cater to people like us. It has nothing to do with age. So please don't be offended. And also in putting out more youth-oriented movies they are ignoring the talents of some very wonderfully, talented actors as evidenced by articles linked by Karen. So I apologise to you if my statements were misconstrued. Certainly not intended. But if these movies were not making money for the studios they wouldn't be made. So they obviously are doing well money-wise, while movies with real artistic value, great acting, and higher intellect don't seem to do as well. Can I adopt you? Evelyn has a good point that we tend to stay home and wait for it on TV. This may be a reason they market what they do and the way they do. But it would be great to see better movies in the market. Did anyone catch the ad for a new show coming in the fall called Brahm and Alice? A daughter moves in with her father whom she has just found. And to boot the father is English, or trying to be. Topical. Karen's so very right. Chick flix have a derogatory connotation, unfairly given and women are not counted on at the box office. But its a viscious circle, if they offered better stuff, women would go. So it's kind of like a stalemate. I'm with you Karen.

Movies have become entirely a youth-oriented art form because that's where the big bucks lie. When a half-baked comedy like "Austin Powers in Goldmember" earned $73 million in its opening weekend this month with a youthful cast for a youthful audience, why would any producer in his right mind not follow suit? Sadly, I think this is true. We often get precisely what we deserve. (Karen) However, there was a time when women counted at the boxoffice, when they went in droves, in the '30s and '40s, the days of the matinee idol and the strong female leads, which Bette Davis, Katherine Hepburn, and Joan Crawford are but a few of the many actresses having substantial careers. Sometime in the 50s, this started to change as television spread through America and women seemed to relegate the decision on their leisure activities to their spouses or boyfriends or whoever. It's been years since I read The Feminine Mystique, but didn't Friedan include an analysis of magazines and movies of the 30's/40's vs. the 50's to show the vast change in images of women in the media?

Re UK Premiere of TIOBE at Edinburgh International Film Festival on 17 August. Attendance of Oliver Parker and Barnaby Thompson confirmed on website. World Premiere of Heather Graham's latest movie 'The Guru' is in same venue immediately thereafter. She is also confirmed. Perhaps ODB may come along just to say hi? (Forlorn hope!!)

Everybody loves Julia, and properly so Not so sure about that. (Evelyn) The reason these kid films earn so much money is because young kids see them over and over again and then the parents buy the vid. Ironic that we were the "kids" with TIOBE and some of us will be the parents buying the DVD/video. (Evelyn) How many of these actresses would make Entertainment Tonight or E! channel. I'm not saying it's right, I'm saying it's part of the culture. It's a vicious cycle. They won't get on ET because they aren't in anything and they aren't in anything because they aren't offered projects as they aren't in the public mind's eye due to no publicity.

Movies have become entirely a youth-oriented art form because that's where the big bucks lie. When a half-baked comedy like "Austin Powers in Goldmember" earned $73 million in its opening weekend this month with a youthful cast for a youthful audience, why would any producer in his right mind not follow suit? If you were a producer would you want to back a film that you would get your money returned (never mind make a profit!) or back an artistic one that no one goes to see. Bottom line: You have to find altruistic producers;-D

There will always be blockbuster films; there always have been (epics of yesteryear). However, it is a chicken and egg thing. The reason the more artistic ones don't make respectable amounts of money, which would produce a decent ROI, is that they don't do any publicity. You gotta spend money to make money. The $100 million blockbusters have marketing budgets of $25+ million. Yes, they ultimately bring in in excess of $200 million worldwide, but start adding up all these costs. What's the return? You can get the same return on smaller pics, but you just can't let them hang out there

I think too often the studios focus on TV advertising and talk show appearances for their films, and they don't look for other ways to reach people. So with their smaller projects, they're stuck because they don't have the budget for TV, the major talk shows may not be interested in the actors if they're not well known, and they don't have any creative ideas for lower-cost methods. By the way, the Austin Powers people earned that $73M opening weekend. They do some creative things to promote their films - in fact, I'm using them as one case study in my Internet Marketing class this fall. I'll be interested to see how HS is promoted. It seems like a classic example of a film that could get decent box office if promoted properly, regardless of the critical reception. And to me that means, first and foremost, targeting all the women who fell in love with Mark Darcy and wondered, "Who is that actor?".

The only British actor who makes it here in starring roles is HG. And Pierce Brosnan , Mel Gibson of course. Austin Powers is a grossed-out film. Folks like that stuff. And FYI for all the publicity about wet shirts and hunk status in the British press Colin -starring movies have tanked in the UK too...including FP. Of course he only does print media over there. Let's see...having cut his teeth over here on the talk shows, he might do some breakfast TV over there this time. TIOBE needs all the help it can get.

(Evelyn) And FYI for all the publicity about wet shirts and hunk status in the British press Colin -starring movies have tanked in the UK too...including FP. I'm aware of that. But the hunk status wasn't particularly useful because he wasn't playing hunk-type romantic lead roles. He didn't do that again until BJD.

EvelynOf course, he only does print media over there I, for one, am hoping that will change with the release of TIOBE -especially since it's the first production from Ealings Studios since the 50's, which should generate a great deal of media interest. Plus he will be here finishing filming AG around the time of its release. I do so hope he finally will do some interviews in the UK. You don't realise how lucky you've been on your side of the pond!!!

(Janet) You don't realise how lucky you've been on your side of the pond!!! We do, Janet, we do.

Hope this isn't a repeat..... From The Write News Thursday June 27, 2002 Movie Stars Latch Onto Cold Mountain Miramax Films and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures announced that Donald Sutherland, Jena Malone, Kathy Baker, Ray Winstone, Ethan Suplee, James Gammon and Charles Hunnam have joined the cast of Cold Mountain, which is adapted and being directed by Anthony Minghella, based on Charles Frazier's bestselling and National Book Award winning Civil War novel of the same name. Principal photography on the film is scheduled to begin July 15th on location in Romania. The cast of Cold Mountain already includes Nicole Kidman, Renee Zellweger, Jude Law, Natalie Portman, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Giovanni Ribisi, Brendan Gleeson and Charlie Hunnam. Cold Mountain will reunite Minghella with his Academy Award winning production team from The English Patient. Editor Walter Murch, director of photography John Seale, costume designer Ann Roth and composer Gabriel Yared, who also worked together on the production of Minghella's The Talented Mr. Ripley, will be joined by production designer. In a story in which nature and weather play an integral part, the filmmakers have chosen to combine locations in the United States with the remote mountains and valleys of Transylvania, Romania, to recreate a primitive and unforgiving landscape. The film is a co-production between Miramax and MGM and is being produced by Academy Award winner Sydney Pollack and William Horberg (through Pollack and Minghella's Mirage Enterprises) and Albert Berger and Ron Yerxa (through their Bona Fide Productions). Co-presidents of production Meryl Poster and Bob Osher, Steve Hutensky, evp of business affairs, and Jon Gordon, evp of production, are overseeing the project for Miramax. Cold Mountain tells the story of Inman (Law), a wounded confederate soldier who is on a perilous journey home to his mountain community, hoping to reunite with his pre-war sweetheart, Ada (Kidman). In his absence Ada struggles to survive, and revive her father's farm with the help of intrepid young drifter Ruby (Zellweger).

TV Alert Lorimer Black is on tonight... Saturday. Armadillo A&E Check your schedule for times. Central is 8-10.

Thanks for the reminder, but it's three hours (8-11, with a repeat starting at midnight central time). The TV Guide gave it 8/10 and says it is a "darkly funny British thriller" and "Armadillo shines as a comedy of manners, pitting posh, potbellied toffs against smarter, less well-bred types. Hilarious performances by Stephen Rea and Hugh Bonneville illuminate the class system that gives Armadillo its moral framework."

Thank you for the correction of the time. NY TIMES Review A ROMANTIC INSIDE A SHARKSKIN SUIT, by Julie Salamon "You know you are in expert hands when you find yourself engaged by a story about an insurance man."...... ". This pleasurable three-hour television film, ".... "The film retains much of the book's complexity of plot and richness of character, but it's very much a movie, where interior lives are conveyed with a look or a phrase. It's a romantic film disguised as a thriller, though the main intrigue lies not in the corporate shenanigans but with unraveling the psychology of the main character, the insurance man. He's in his early 30's, darkly handsome and calls himself Lorimer Black." "As Lorimer, or Milo, James Frain brings to the part an attractive mournfulness. He looks like a man who's just holding himself together ? not slick, not like someone trying to help insurance companies weasel out of commitments. You see why he's good at his job. His sad eyes make him seem honest, even when he's lying. Those eyes serve him especially well when he's being compassionate ? when, for example, a blowhard colleague mocks his own son for being a bed-wetter in front of Lorimer. He may work for powerful people, but he can't escape his empathy for the underdog. Lorimer's search for self takes place against the backdrop of business corruption ? and Mr. Boyd didn't skimp on the scoundrels. Hugh Bonneville plays Torquil Helvior-Jayne, the self-important dim bulb with the bed-wetting son, as an oblivious frat boy. Stephen Rea, overacting with enthusiasm, is entertaining as Hogg, Lorimer's boss, a man with a fondness for dramatic pronouncements." WITH: James Frain (Lorimer Black), Catherine McCormack (Flavia), Stephen Rea (Mr. Hogg), Hugh Bonneville (Torquil Helvior-Jayne), James Fox (Sir Simon Sherriffmuir), Neil Pearson (Rintoul), Paterson Joseph (Alan) and Trevor Peacock (Marlobe). entire review: http://www.nytimes.com/2002/08/02/arts/television/02TVWK.html ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ There's an interview with JF in today's paper where he says: "You get a part like this every five years, if you're lucky, or once in a lifetime. I was lucky." Frain says of his role in the television movie adaptation. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I saw JF in March on stage at the Almeida in London. He played Polonius in King Lear. Has a real presence on the stage.

(FanPam)So please don't be offended. Oh dear, don't worry, I didn't take offense, I just wanted you to know that there are at least a few of us out there that are interested in culture and bettering ourselves. It's one of the reasons that I found myself here, to share ideas with people who have common interests. It doesn't hurt that Colin is so delicious, either. ;-) And hey, consider me open for adoption. :)

Humming away.... Is that Sue B's signature song? Was it Johnny Mathis? A shame she couldn't have fit it into P&P too. LOL! Armadillo was very good and I think Colin would've been better. Frain looked too much like an outsider; Lorimar was capable of being taken for a public school boy. Frain had a common accent. He stood out like an alien. I actually thought they did a better job than the book, dealing with the financial wheeling and dealing. But the ending was different. A happy ending instead of the ambiguous one. OK, I want to know what we lost here. The BBC's was three hours. Ours was 2 hours and about 20 minutes in length without commercials.

Consider yourself adopted, Megs. Was everyone in the New York area ok with that storm last night? It was pretty bad where I am. We lost power for 18 hours. My daughter, returning from Vegas, was grounded in DC as Newark was closed. At least she called me to tell me she was safe as I didn't know what time she was due in and was quite worried. So fears abated collected all my CF videos to watch as I knew cable would go out so was happy as could be when the electric went about 8:00 pm and didn't come back on till about 2:00 pm. I was greatly displeased. Enjoyed Armadillo. Wish it was CF though. Maybe I'm still hearing thunder and lightning, but does anyone else think that the man playing Torquill (sp) sounds alot like CF. I don't know if it's tone of voice, or phraseology, or both. But when I first heard it I was talking to daughter and had to turn to screen as I thought for a minute it was him, even though I knew he wasn't in it. Have taped it and will watch again before I attempt to make any intelligent comments on it.

(Evelyn)I saw JF in March on stage at the Almeida in London. He played Polonius in King Lear. Has a real presence on the stage. Now, you know I disagree with this. I thought he was lifeless. I liked him in Armadillo but did not enjoy his performance in King Lear. Maybe he was having a bad night or was upset by all that water pouring onto the stage ;-)

I thought Armadillo was slow moving. If I hadn't liked the book so much, I might have given up on it after about an hour. IMO, they didn't adequately explore why Lorimer/Milo is ashamed of his background; the "disguises"--so much fun in the book--were barely there; and the Flavia storyline didn't work for me. Didn't care for Cathermine McK in this at all. I did think James Frain did a very good job, though, and was probably a more age-appropriate choice than Colin. Still, I'd love to have seen what CF would do with the role. It's a more complex, multi-layered character than anything CF has done in years, sadly.

(Mari)Still, I'd love to have seen what CF would do with the role. It's a more complex, multi-layered character than anything CF has done in years, sadly. I watched this on and off last night. I could see Colin in this very easily. Maybe it's because I knew he almost was going to do it, that I kept picturing him instead of JF. I missed the beginning and then had a hard time getting into it. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Karen) I actually thought they did a better job than the book, dealing with the financial wheeling and dealing. But the ending was different. A happy ending instead of the ambiguous one. Agree. Wm Boyd did a better job with the script than with the last chapter of the book. I never did figure out the scheme in the book. You know me, I like ambiguous endings.... Thought JF was excellent. Sadly, CF might have been able to do the role a few years ago. A stretch to make him a 32 yrs old naive insurance adjuster.Though then it would have been interesting to see how he would have interprted the role. BTW didn't we read that he had a hand in writing the script? Am I dreaming here? Several CF buddies in that film, Neil Pearson, Ian Mc Neice. It's too bad there were so many delays in the filming, or I bet Colin would have taken this role.Though 3 hours is a lotta work;-))) Mari, A&E goofed IMO to play that 9 to midnight. I'd be yawning too at that hour. But hey...did you see the Possession commercial? Focus Films know where they're gonna get their audience. Wimbledon, BBC America, A&E..... Allison, we saw King Lear on the best night. I literally floated out of that place.(LOL not because of all the water onstage). A flawless production, IMO.

Forgot to add that Stephen Rea, Hugh Bonneville and James Fox gave the usual solid performances. A blue ribbon cast, directed by Howard Davies. I just saw his Private Lives in May on B'way. He took the Tony. SB had a winner.

*hee hee hee* When I saw Yoda, my mind immediately jumped to "well, he managed to do both Conspiracy andArmadillo, but he only had two little scenes that might have taken all of two days max, whereas the lead is another matter (just in case it was timing or a choice of two at the same time). Talk about your timeliness of subject matter! Inflated balance sheets, non-arm's length transactions. ;-) (Evelyn) A stretch to make him a 32 yrs old naive insurance adjuster. Aw, he could've done it. Besides, it wasn't necessarily experience that Lorimar lacked; he knew something was wrong, but he hadn't sniffed out the whole mess. Those boys were good. Age wasn't a major factor IMO, and Colin would've been fine. Besides, he looks plenty young enough for me. (Evelyn) didn't we read that he had a hand in writing the script? Am I dreaming here? Lucidly! ;-) No, I was told that he was working with Boyd around the time of the second 3DOR staging. Not sure if he was actually writing, but he was giving input at a minimum, as if the part were his. Hugh Bonneville was v.g. as Torquil; I hadn't pictured him physically like that. But Stephen Rea was truly excellent. What a character he created! Even better than the one in the book. He leaped off the screen.

Did no one recognize the music?

(Karen)Did no one recognize the music? I can't remember the artisit's name that Colin said he liked while driving up the winding roads of Umbria, but was the music from that African artist? I actually had that thought while watching Armadillo last night along with the way JF seemed to imitate CF's walk, went down a hallway that greatly resembled the one where Blackadder encountered Shakespeare, and Lorimer's family reminded me of the one DQ rents a room from. Maybe CF did have a hand in this production ;-).

Yes...yes... I recognized the African music. But is that the same artist Colin likes? (Karen) Age wasn't a major factor IMO, and Colin would've been fine. Besides, he looks plenty young enough for me. I will admit Colin could have gone up those stairs better;-D (Karen)But Stephen Rea was truly excellent. What a character he created! Even better than the one in the book. He leaped off the screen. He *always* makes his part outstanding. Remember him in The End of the Affair? (Lora)I actually had that thought while watching Armadillo last night along with the way JF seemed to imitate CF's walk, went down a hallway that greatly resembled the one where Blackadder encountered Shakespeare, They have similar acting styles too.JF was super in "Sunshine", which BTW would have made an excellent 3 hour movie also.

No no no!! Not the African music. The Johnny Mathis, which plays intermittantly, but is most obvious at the very beginning. Speaking of stairs, Colin came to mind at the beginning, when they showed Lorimar climbing the stairs going into work. Colin would've taken the stairs so much better. JF was so lackluster in that regard.

(Karen)Colin came to mind at the beginning, when they showed Lorimar climbing the stairs going into work. Colin would've taken the stairs so much better. JF was so lackluster in that regard. Now I ask you....who else but Colin (and us !) would single out stairs as a scene focus;-)) Too bad Colin didn't do Armadillo.The whole thing was loaded with symbolism. We cudda had a ball. (Karen)The Johnny Mathis, which plays intermittently, Sorry, like Lora , I was focusing on the African stuff. I can see where one could really go for it.

Go put Dutch Girls on!!

Oh yeah, and the African music wouldn't have anything to do with Colin's influence. Remember, Boyd spent time there as well and at least one of his books is set there.

(Karen) Go put Dutch Girls on!! What a memory you have. I had forgotten that Wm Boyd wrote that and SB produced it.I love that little movie.LOL they like Neil Pearson too.

Ooh - I just found a copy of Dutch Girls but haven't seen it yet. Johnny Mathis music, huh?

This is based on something posted in 163, but the specific part I'm talking about seemed more appropriate for this topic.... Miramax attracted extensive media attention for its limited release of "Tadpole" two weeks ago, but last weekend's expansion didn't generate major heat. This is exactly what I was talking about recently regarding studio promotion. They think of two things - TV advertising and media coverage. And since they can't afford TV for smaller films, that leaves just media, which I think is not enough. Even though I'm aware of "Tadpole" (having seen the trailer a few times before TIOBE showings), I didn't notice any of that "extensive" media coverage. There have just got to be other, better ways to promote smaller projects. Incidentally, speaking of "Tadpole" - have others seen the trailer? It definitely says something about attitudes towards gender that the sexual initiation of a 15-year-old boy by older women is considered appropriate for what looks like a blithe comedy, while the reverse is.... well, basically, "Lolita."

Yes, I've seen the trailer, maybe once. And you won't find anymore more in agreement about the gender biases, double standards, etc. They make me ill. :-(

Karen: Did no one recognize the music? Nat King Cole's "Nature Boy"? Words and Music by Eden Ahbez There was a boy A very strange enchanted boy They say he wandered very far, very far Over land and sea A little shy and sad of eye But very wise was he And then one day A magic day he passed my way And while we spoke of many things Fools and kings This he said to me "The greatest thing you'll ever learn Is just to love and be loved in return" "The greatest thing you'll ever learn Is just to love and be loved in return"

Hey, I was close! Right era (i.e., before my time) although I should've recognized the lack of vibrato in the voice. Thank you, Marianne. I'm telling ya, this must be Sue B's fav song.

I really liked Dutch Girls. Thought it was good. Loved the characters and see that many have been in other pics with CF. Especially Mr. Wickham. Good movie. I saw interviews on Tadpole on the morning news shows. It looks good.

(Karen) When I saw Yoda Gah! Jabba, not Yoda. :-P Thought Armadillo was OK. The every-10-minutes rounds of the same commercials really did me in. I couldn't make it until the end. JF was well cast, as was the actress who played Flavia. Rea and Bonneville were nothing like I pictured in my mind when I read the book. Think I would have enjoyed it more if I had TiVO.

(Evelyn)Now I ask you....who else but Colin (and us !) would single out stairs as a scene focus;-)) 'Cause he knows he's the STAIRMASTER!

(karen)OK, I want to know what we lost here. The BBC's was three hours. Ours was 2 hours and about 20 minutes in length without commercials. i would like to know the answer to this too--if i hadn't read the book, would i have been able to follow the story? would i have 'gotten' the bits like how he would dress to fit his client and jupiter...etc...???

Did anyone catch Men vs. Women on Showtime Sunday night? I taped it and watched it today. Good cast and well done. Thought alot of the ladies on Drool would like it as I'm sure it'll be on again.

Thought this was rather amusing from yesterday. I expect Halle Berry might be his partner for this: James Bond to have 'best lay of his life' in new movie The director of the new James Bond movie says he's included a steamy love scene in the film. He says it will be up to censors to decide whether it should be cut. Lee Tamahori says he wanted to include a more raunchy sex scene in Die Another Day. "In lovemaking, Bond's PG requirements have traditionally meant you can only show post-coital sex," he tells Vanity Fair. "You know, clothes strewn around the room, the camera slowly pans over to the bed... But we thought, why couldn't Bond have the best lay of his life? "So we shot a very hot love scene. Whether it survives the censor's cut, or the producers, we'll see."

PREMIERE Mag only gave Tadpole ** http://premiere.com/Premiere/movies/2002/tadpole.html

(Karen) James Bond to have 'best lay of his life' in new movie ... PB in the raw (hopefully)!!!! Really can't wait to see that. It's about time!!!!

He was pretty raw (or close to it) in The Thomas Crown Affair if I remember correctly.

You do remember correctly, although I remember some discussion on whether it was a body double for the butt shots on the stairs.

Daniel Day-Lewis Cobbled Together Daniel Day-Lewis is the likely winner of this year's best actor awards (wait 'til you see him in Gangs of New York -- but more about that after Labor Day). Day-Lewis doesn't like to do publicity. Heck, he doesn't like to make movies, and he was all but retired and cobbling shoes in Florence (I'm not kidding) when Harvey Weinstein pulled him by the ear to the set of Gangs. But don't expect Day-Lewis to show Weinstein any love when the awards come pouring in. (Miramax only put up $90 million or more to make Martin Scorsese's ideas come alive on the screen.) In the new issue of Premiere the reticent Day-Lewis says though that Weinstein's insistence wasn't his impetus to return to the screen. "I have great affection for the man," he tells Premiere, "but Harvey hasn't gotten the message that I am playing this part in spite of him -- not because of him." Rather, it was the chance to work again with Scorsese, explains Day-Lewis. "For me, he [Scorsese], is it ... Harvey has me over a barrel because he knows I would do anything for Martin," Day-Lewis told the magazine. "I would never speak about filmmaking in this way if it were not for the necessary business of repaying the debt." I hope this guy warms a little toward the Oscar process soon (he's already won for My Left Foot). His performance in Gangs is a revelation, the kind that people will be talking about, imitating, praising, and using as a standard for years to come.

From THR: by Stuart Kemp LONDON -- The British Independent Film Awards, the annual "alternative" U.K. film industry bash, received an undisclosed cash boost Wednesday by securing a topline sponsor -- the independent financial services group Park Caledonia. Organizers also said Wednesday that they plan to switch the ceremony to "the more edgy venue" of the central London nightclub Pacha after four years in West End hotels. "We are moving away from the standard awards-show format and concentrating on making this event the best party in town for British film talent," BIFA founder Elliot Grove said. The ceremony will still dish out awards, including those in the categories of best British indie film, performances and British indie screenplay. Securing the new backer is a step toward financial security for the awards, which last year went ahead with no headline sponsor. But the closure last month of FilmFour, the stand-alone movie operation of U.K. public broadcaster Channel 4 (HR 7/9), will leave an enormous gap at an event that received strong support from the company financially and talent-wise. Organizers plan to announce this year's nominations next month, with the ceremony and party scheduled for Oct. 30. Front-runners for nominations include "Bloody Sunday," "Lawless Heart," "Gosford Park," "Charlotte Gray" and "Sweet Sixteen."

"Front-runners for nominations include "Bloody Sunday," "Lawless Heart," "Gosford Park," "Charlotte Gray" and "Sweet Sixteen." Charlotte Gray???? Puhleeze.Saw it in London.Loved the book. But the film...yuck. Goes under the column :"Films where I want those 2 hours of my life back"

Her's some mindless fun!! If you want to know the celebrity you are most compatible with, check out this website. www.celebmatch.com( Sorry, don't know how to do link). Sounds crazy, I know, but when I entered the name of anyone I really like, the percentage was very high, and low for those Idon'tlike. All to do with biorythms, apparently!!

Here are my best matches: Your best matches Bob Dylan 100% Brian Wilson 96% Al Pacino 96% Jesse Jackson 95% John Lennon 94% Gee!

Good thing this wasn't in effect for TIOBE! Besides, how does this jive with PG rated films? ;-) Coors to Sponsor Miramax Premieres By CATHERINE TSAI, AP Business Writer The next time you see Gwyneth Paltrow on the big screen, there might be a Coors in the shot with her. Coors Brewing Co. of Golden, Colo., and Miramax Films announced a deal Thursday making Coors the official sponsor of U.S. theatrical premieres for Miramax, meaning the Coors logo will show up on red carpets and its beer will be served at Miramax parties. The deal also would place Coors products in 15 films over the next three years. Unlike in traditional advertising, directors will be able to show actors drinking a beer, Coors spokeswoman Hilary Martin said. "A View from the Top," with Paltrow, Candice Bergen and Mike Myers, and "Duplex" with Drew Barrymore and Ben Stiller are among the first movies to work with Coors. The brewer's name could appear as anything from a verbal mention to a logo on a truck or in an actor's hand. Both films are expected to premiere in early 2003. Coors originally called Miramax earlier this year to ask about sponsoring a premiere. New chief marketing officer Ron Askew talked his way into more. Both companies touted the deal as a "perfect" match. "It was love at first sight," said Lori Sale, Miramax's executive vice president of worldwide promotion... Getting Miramax co-founder Harvey Weinstein on board was not a problem, Sale said. "He said Paul Newman introduced him to his first Coors 15 years ago, and he'd still drink it if they were not a sponsor," she said. Coors and Miramax will review which films would be best for Coors to appear in. Coors insisted it would not appear in scenes depicting underage drinking, drinking and driving, or other irresponsible behavior. Both companies said Coors would not be dictating creative changes for scripts. And in another detail of the agreement, Miramax could give Coors employees or customers a chance to appear as a silent walk-on in a film or on the red carpet at a premiere. http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&cid=529&ncid=529&e=16&u=/ap/20020808/ap_en_mo/coors_miramax_1

Here's a little more from THR: Coors, whose brands include Keystone and Zima in addition to Coors and Coors Light, will only partner on films rated PG-13 or R. The company already has placement in the upcoming Miramax releases "Duplex" and "View From the Top." Coors has the right to nix placement of competing brands in Miramax films and will get such extras as walk-on parts and bulk rates on Miramax DVDs to use as marketing incentives. Sale said Coors will sometimes tie in promotionally with films that don't lend themselves to placement, such as the period pieces ("Shakespeare in Love," for instance) that Miramax is widely known for. The brewer is planning promotions linked to the year-end releases of "Chicago" and "Gangs of New York."

So I guess we didn't have to worry about seeing Algy or Jack taking swigs from Coors Longnecks in the London dance hall scenes, even if this agreement had been made earlier. But Thomas's missed a great product placement opportunity in the muffin fight scene.

Oh, lord, my matches were disastrous, ha ha! I got two backstreet boys and a basketball player! I think they were trying to match a bit by age, giving me the only 5 people under 30 for appropriateness, because these are not people that I like. They did manage to pair me at 96% with Jonathon Rhys-Meyers, though, so perhaps I will go and rent Bend It Like Beckham after all. :) Thanks for the link, it was fun.

Eeeuw! Mine are: Your best matches Arnold Vosloo 99% Dave Navarro 98% Michael Shanks 98% Tom Green 97% Marc Blucas 97% Actually Dave Navarro is pretty good, but I don't I could compete with Carmen Electra...LOL. Yuch!...Tom Green...I think I may have to go kill myself now. With ODB I was only 4% intellectually a match, but 99% physically and emotionally...high ratings only where it counts. Gosh, I haven't heard abput biorhythms in I can't remember how long. Wasn't that big in the 70's and early 80's?

hey megs just wanted you to know you have some young company (23) here on occasion, grew up on all the good b&w's, wanted to be ginger rogers for the longest time, there is hope for us young pam-though i must admit many of my tastes were influences by my family and extended family, and i was not exposed to much of the normal programming for my age group

Oh, lord, my matches were disastrous, ha ha! I got two backstreet boys and a basketball player! I think they were trying to match a bit by age, giving me the only 5 people under 30 for appropriateness, because these are not people that I like. They did manage to pair me at 96% with Jonathon Rhys-Meyers, though, so perhaps I will go and rent Bend It Like Beckham after all. :) Thanks for the link, it was fun.

Don't know why mine sent twice...the refresh button is strange, methinks.

You do not use Refresh or Reload on Spring. It will cause a reposting if you have done so. In order to see new messages at a given topic, you must exit the topic and come back in, or use the location bar url and hit enter. Do not hit Refresh. This isn't a message board.

(Karen) Coors to Sponsor Miramax Premieres...... Good thing this wasn't in effect for TIOBE! Besides, how does this jive with PG rated films? ;-) Actually it must have been since the background just inside the Paris Theater at the premiere had the Killian's Red logo in the background. You can see it in some of the pics. Killian's is one of their products. This article is significantly smaller and less in-depth than the one from the WSJ yesterday. It mentioned their various brands besides just Coors, Coors Light, and Killian's that may be seen, as well as, discussing possible marketing promos and placement plans. Said if they don't use a Coors brand, they'll use a fictional one in the movie.

I hated my matches-Steven Segal, Paul Reiser geez! I checked my compatability with CF, and although I didn't do as well Dorine, I didn't do too badly. Physically-77 Emotionally 78 Intellectual 72 for a total of 76 I'll take it, I'll take it. Well, Dorine, I'll give you some of the intellectual if you'll share some of the physical. We can do a joint thing like our theses.

These are my matches: Scott Bairstow 98 Lou Bega 98 Kevin Richardson 97 Grant Hill 97 Nick Heidfeld 97 -Have NO IDEA who any of these people are.... (couldnt get it to tell me my CF compatability rating.) :-(

I will be the envy of everyone...I had overall match with CF of 94%. Only good non-CF match was Matt Lauer with 98%.

my matches: joe lando 98% tony slattery 98% kristoff st john 97% adrian paul 97% dave foley 96% i'd have to go with dave. as for cf: 72% overall :-) or should it be :-( ????

Thanks for link Janet, can't wait to see who they match me up with. I got introduced to all the classics through my parents, too, Treseg. I don't think alot of my friends watched the movies I HAD (?) to watch at home. But you know, hating it at the time, how I loved it too. Bette Davis, Ginger Rogers, Top Hat a personal favorite, life-time love of Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart, and needless to say first-class acting. When I look back I realize how forturnate I was and thankful I am.

Of course, this article is mostly about AAB...and Hughie...but the Nicvk Hornby reflections were what interested me. Sydney Morning Herald, Saturday Aug. 10, 2002 Weekend Magazine Excerpts from a column called View from the couch Biy Trouble by Fred Pawle I read Fever Pitch when it came out...it was ok....there was nothing new in it. Then I read High Fidelity. One thing struck me: despite its being fiction, there was not a burnt match between it and the first book. Both are about how men are being misunderstood by women too empowered for their own good, and how we are, in fact, lovable beneath our childish infatuations, whether they be sport, music, or stamp-collecting. Then I gave up. Well, not quite. I read the next book, About a Boy. What struck me about that was...absolutely nothing. About a Boy is where Nick Hornby leaves the brotherhood well and truly behind, if he hasn't already done so two books earlier. It's calculated to appeal to women..... The main character, Will, is just an updated version of the same old cliched Hornby hero: a man whose only skills in life are useless, who can only get the woman he wants through luck, not genuine seduction. Every twist in the convoluted plot is Hornby trying to shake the shackles of his own formula, but he never does. What Hornby constantly fails to acknowledge is that relations between the sexes are not about redemption. And they're not about one side taming the other. Women might flock to the film version and fall in love with Hugh Grant's latest one-dimensional incarnation, but give them a couple of hours with a Hugh-like character in the flesh and they'd soon realize that softness is not so desirable after all.

I defy anyone to have a stranger group of matches than I got: Nick Mancuso 97 Danny Devito 94 Steven Spielberg 93 Tommy Lee Jones 92 Oliver Stone 92 Even when I lied about my age, I couldn't get any sort of match with CF. I got hysterical over the idea of me and Danny!

OK I'll play. Billy Wirth 100% Chow Sing Chi 99% Nicholas Lea 99% Steven Seagal 97% Steve Buscemi 96% I have no idea who the first three are, and I'd die laughing just looking at the fourth one.

I'm in shock-- Your best matches: Sylvester Stallone 99% Bruce Lee 99% Steven Spielburg 97% Tom Berenger 95% Gregory Harrison 95% --- You gotta be kidding!! This is the compatibility between you and Colin Firth based on biorhythms. physical 85% emotional 97% intellectual 98% total 94% --- Now that's more like it! **Hee hee**

(amy) i'd have to go with dave. No way! I love Tony Slattery. He was my favorite on Who's Line Is It Anyway. I used to watch it when I was much younger and wish that I was British, because they think of great shows like that. Then Drew Carey went and remade it, and it's funny, yes, but not nearly as good. Anyway, I'd definitely take him over Dave Foley. :)

What fun this compatibility site is Janet. Thank you. Best Matches: Jim Morrison 99% My son laughed like crazy. I don't think so. Isn't he dead? Anthony Stewart Head 97% Anyone know who he is? Barry Manilow 95% OK I like this one. John Paul Jones 95% Again, is this the dead naval hero or someone else? Liam Neeson 94% Now things are looking up. My girlfriend pinched his butt at a cocktail party. Said she couldn't resist, it's that good. Compatibility with Colin High Point: 96% Physical I'M IN HEAVEN I like this, leaves 4% for experimentation. I wonder how they can measure biorhythms over computer. Thought a pulse was needed for that, then again, evidently NOT by some of the matches they gave me. Great fun. Now I want to see how I match up with Pierce Brosnan and JM hmmmmm.

(Pam) Anthony Stewart Head 97% Anyone know who he is? Giles the librarian on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Once played Frank N. Furter in Rocky Horror. You might know him from the Taster's Choice ads several years ago with the two Brits who lived in the same apartment building and flirted while borrowing/drinking Taster's Choice. You could do a lot worse!!!! Speaking of which, my highest-compatibility celebrity, at 99%, was Colin....... (sigh) Mochrie. I didn't know how scary that was till I found a photo. I was only 72% compatible with ODB, though 94% physical (almost as good as yours, Pam!)

Re Celebrity compatibility. I was matched physically 99% with ODB. - (No surprise to me!!!) Strangely, my best match was with Andy Garcia at 96% overall, who was my idol priorto discovering ODB!!!!

I know nothing about biorhythms...it's a term from the past for sure. Fun thing though and while I certainly would never pair myself up with Nicholas Cage or Mike Meyers, I too tried my luck with the CF compatibility and found high levels both physically and intellectually!! Two cheers, but the other one, in the middle of the two, was very low! So far everyone has matched him physically. What does this say about him? He is easy or that he has wide and diversified tastes sexually??? :))) Or what does it say about us?

If I remember correctly (I'll have to go to one of those sites to bone up), biorythms was merely a "schedule" your body followed, having High, positive, operation-at-maximum, and low, vulnerable, easy-does it stages.Also, the biorhythm cycles for a single person didn't correspond in time length , so there were periods when only one was at a high point, and others when all 3 peaked together. I think all this matching does is compare your rhythm pattern with his (theoretically), so that if you rate high compatibility physically, then your physical highs correspond with his, or a low compatibility rating would indicate that his advantageous times for that characteristic would not correspond with yours very often. (**Ho-hum**, doesn't indicate sexual preferences, only time periods when one is "up" for it, or not -- you should pardon the expression. ;-D )

(sigh).. I keep forgetting to check this thread every week.. lol.. oh well.. my "ideal celebrity" did not turn out to be HWM, unfortunately, however... the one chosen for me was Daniel Day Lewis at 99%.. .hmmm... I'll take it! Gwyneth Paltrow will be on Conan O'Brien on Tuesday and Mr. Northam on Wednesday.. just thought I'd give you a heads up if you're interested. Oh, and speaking of GP, my two eldest children insisted I sit down with them the other night and watch "Seven", because I am a huge Morgan Freeman fan (could listen to him talk all day)... they're now on my hit list.. LOL. I'm a very sensitive soul, and I really wish I hadn't watched it.

The Jeremy Northam conference is alive & well on #43 and Possession is #137, but here is the line-up for next week. Upcoming TV appearances next week promoting Possession. Times are EST,check your tv guides for local times.There is nothing that came up in the search for JE , AE or NLB. Jeremy Northam Wed 14 7:00 AM EST Good Morning America Wed 14 9:00 AM EST Regis & Kelly Thu 15 12:35 AM EST Conan O'Brien ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ GP Tuesday Aug 13 Regis & Kelly Tues Aug 13 Conan O'Brien

Well, I checked out Colin, after everyone else inspired me, and my results aren't terrible *91, 78, 72, 81 overall, but was anyone else bothered by the fact that they list Colin Mochrie and not Jeremy Northam? I wanted to see how we matched up! Maybe I'm being too hard on Colin M; Rika seems happy to have him. ;-)

(megs)No way! I love Tony Slattery. isn't he getting a bit, well, fat?!! :p joke

I was disappointed that they didn't have JN on their list either. But I was able to match up with Pierce Brosnan. Love him too. So that was fun.

(Lisa)What does this say about him? He is easy or that he has wide and diversified tastes sexually??? :))) Or what does it say about us? That we're easy and have wide diversified tastes sexually:-)))

(Lisa)What does this say about him? He is easy or that he has wide and diversified tastes sexually??? :))) Or what does it say about us? (Linda) That we're easy and have wide diversified tastes sexually:-))) LOL! I hope both parties are easy....saves time to be spent on the fun stuff!

Hey! Guess what! I just did the celebmatch thing and it is -- you guessed it: Colin Firth 100%!!!!!!! my closest match!!!!! And 100% for all categories when only he is considered!!!! How did she do this, you ask? She simply told the computer her birthday was 9-10-60 (which it really isn't). Sorry if I caused anyone to faint or suffer from unbearable envy. You too can see it on your screen if you say 9-10-60 is your birthday. If you want to be more modest, you can say 9-9-60 and only get 99%s. :-) Celebmatch is fun but A.I. it AIn't! :-)

ROTFL, Caribou! You won the game! Speaking of birthdays, I brought this up about a month ago and there seemed to be some interest, but it didn't really go anywhere, so I'm going to try again. Is it possible to get the current birthday list and perhaps update it? When I asked last time, some said that the Keeper of the Keepsakes List also had the birthday list. Is that someone who's around frequently? I'm sure that I'm not the only newer person who would like to be sure not to miss offering birthday greetings to my fellow Firthettes.

Rika, glad you brought this up again. I was going to mention it again a couple of days ago, got distracted somehow (not too difficult here), then completely forgot. Not only a birthday list, but maybe a general location list as well, so people can make plans to meet up for screenings or just for fun.

Didn't I write if anybody wants to step up to the plate, to be my guest? ;-) And the Keeper of the Keepsakes Lists doesn't have the birthday one. (Besides CathyW hasn't been around in ages.) Marcia (now of the Geo conference) started it, but it's very out of date.

I'd volunteer, but I doubt I'll be much of a presence at all after August. I'll return in June, but internet in France on a student budget is really hard, so I won't be able to devote the necessary time to drooling. :-(

Anybody think the S&TC segment last night was written by MB? Or his relative?

Lots of good data here from an article in THR: Costly blockbusters put studios on alert Aug. 12, 2002 By Stephen Galloway Does size matter? In 1998, when Sony Pictures used a variation on that catchphrase to promote its blockbuster wannabe "Godzilla," the movie industry ridiculed the studio's hubris. But this year, with Sony Pictures triumphantly at the head of the pack, size -- from production budgets to marketing expenditures, from screen counts to record-breaking grosses -- definitively appears to matter. And in most cases, the bigger, the better. But that raises a new question: Will it affect the types of films Hollywood makes in the future? Such films as Sony's "Spider-Man," Warner Bros. Pictures' "Scooby-Doo" and New Line Cinema's "Austin Powers in Goldmember" have raked in record-breaking grosses, while even less-than-blockbuster blockbusters like Fox/DreamWorks' "Minority Report" have easily passed the $100 million line. But while Hollywood is riding high, some insiders caution that there is a downside to this bonanza. In chasing those grosses, the major studios have relied on increasingly wide-scale releases, and they have been forced to spend more and more on marketing and avertising to attract audiences quickly. It's a trend likely to continue as fall's potential blockbusters -- including such fantasy titans as Warners' "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" and New Line's " The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers" as well as MGM's potential savior, the latest James Bond feature, "Die Another Day" -- approach release. Studios now commonly spend $70 million to $125 million on producing "event" films -- and sometimes even more. Budgets can range from the low-$70 million cost of "Goldmember" to more than double that for the new "Terminator" movie, "T3: Rise of the Machines." In addition to the negative cost, prints and advertising for such films can add as much as $50 million to the balance sheet. Together, these expenses and new wide-release patterns are bringing about a subtle shift in the economics of the film business, leaving many veterans unsure about the consequences. "You spend more and more because you are always competing," Revolution Studios principal Tom Sherak said. "I don't know when it's going to stop. There is no question that the amount of theaters a movie opens on and the costs of releasing it are out of control and ridiculous. And I'll tell you the truth, I don't know what the long-term consequences are." Perhaps the most significant shift is the industry's new reliance on 4,000-plus-print releases, which have become an industry norm this summer. That, in turn, is forcing studios to spend more upfront on prints and advertising. Twenty years ago, a "wide release" was made up of about 400 prints, and total P&A (prints and advertising) costs would top out at $4 million. Even three or four years ago, a wide release could spread across a relatively reasonable 2,000 screens. Compare that with "Spider-Man," which went out to a near-record-breaking 3,615 theaters, where it played on 7,200 screens. Movies can now appear on so many screens because of the staggering rise in the number of theaters in the United States, where screens now total about 35,506. While the number of screens has dipped fractionally during the past year, the rise over the past decade has been phenomenal -- from 23,814 in 1990 to 27,843 in 1995 to a peak of 37,185 in 1999. "There's more theaters, there's more screens, and movies are able to saturate the marketplace in their opening weekend," said Paul Dergarabedian, president of Exhibitor Relations Co. "When you've got a 'Harry Potter' opening on 8,200 screens -- that's one out of every three or four screens in the country." That is good news for audiences eager to see a new film, and it is good news for studio executives eager to get their film seen early. But it is bad news for movies that rely on word-of-mouth as well as smaller films that must compete with such large-scale releases. "When you start looking at the economic models, they really have been thrown topsy-turvy," Artisan Entertainment CEO Amir Malin said. And this summer has raised the bar. "Before 'Spider-Man,' we'd never had a $100 million weekend for a movie," Dergarabedian said. "That was considered the Holy Grail of the boxoffice, and now it's happened." If ever-wider releases are the most visible aspect of Hollywood's new way of doing business, another aspect is the increased sums studios have been spending to launch their films. The reason is simple: "In the wide-release business, it's the old parachute joke: You open, or die," Fox Filmed Entertainment chairman Tom Rothman said. Indeed, insiders say that one major studio this summer spent as much as $80 million to market one of its films in an attempt to recoup its $110 million negative cost before critical pans and poor word-of-mouth sank in. To draw audiences to a movie's opening weekend, studios have been spending more and more on television advertising, considered the best way to bring in an opening-weekend audience. While no figures are available for this summer, the numbers for 2001 indicate that the cost of TV advertising is growing exponentially. The major studios spent more than one-third of their media outlays on network advertising last year -- a total of $944.5 million, compared with $656.7 million the year before, according to statistics provided by Competitive Media Reporting. Boxoffice revenues over the past years demonstrate the increasing role that opening weekends play in a film's fortunes. For each of the top 25 films released in 1987, the opening weekend constituted 11% of its domestic total, and films were released on about 1,000 screens each; by 1996 that number had reached 19%; in 2001, for the top 25 films, the opening weekend was about 28% of the total domestic boxoffice, and they were released in an average of 2,951 locations. "The growth of the multiplexes and (the creation of) megaplexes has fueled a change in release patterns, with a larger and larger number of theaters and, above all, prints," one top-level studio executive said. "This is creating a front-end load to the boxoffice, (meaning that the opening) tends to be a larger percentage of the total boxoffice than five or six years ago." But just how these economic shifts will impact the kinds of movies being made is the subject of great debate. "(Wide release-patterns and higher marketing costs have) no bearing on the kind of pictures you make," insisted producer Jerry Bruckheimer ("Pearl Harbor," "Black Hawk Down"). "The only thing that does have a bearing is what is successful at any given time. So if you have a 'Spider-Man' and 'Star Wars,' you'll see a lot of pictures made in those arenas." Fox's Rothman, who is pursuing a wide slate of pictures from the Marvel comics adaptation "Daredevil" (a Regency Enterprises co-production) to the 18th century seafaring drama "Master and Commander," has a more modulated response. "We are still making a great variety of films, but where the impact comes is on their budgets," he said. "When you are making less of a cookie-cutter movie, there is great pressure on keeping a modest negative cost. (The new economy) makes it hard for expensive risk-taking. What you try to do is take artistic risks where you can control the financial risks." Others are less optimistic. "When you look at the release schedules of the major studios, it is very difficult to find that unique drama that stands out," Malin said. "You'll see it, but when you do, it tends to have major casting to overcome the negatives. 'A Beautiful Mind' is an example. How successful would that have been without Russell Crowe?" Five years from now, Malin predicted, "We will continue to see more derivative work being created that has prequel, sequel and more branding written all over it. And we will also see less product in the marketplace because studios will be willing to place larger chips on fewer bets." Entertainment attorney Peter Dekom goes further still, noting that opening-weekend audiences tend to be made up of teenagers or young adults and that the studios are likely to target this youth audience even more. According to MPA statistics, teenagers accounted for 19% of total movie admissions last year, compared with 14% in 1997. Also, in 2001, 51% of teenagers were "frequent" moviegoers -- that is, they saw at least one movie a month. Just five years ago, in 1997, only 42% of teenagers were frequent moviegoers. "When you are selling movies, you have to seduce somebody out of a house, and the most easily seduced is a teenager who wants to be seduced anyway," Dekom said. "So more movies have to be targeted toward teenagers because they are the ones who don't want to stay at home." That is expected to result in a greater dependence on comic-book franchises and high-concept films -- like this past weekend's "XXX" -- and, ultimately, a move away from big stars who appeal to an older audience, like Clint Eastwood, who just opened in "Blood Work." But most studio chiefs say that despite current trends, they are still hedging their bets. Indeed, one studio head said he remains skeptical of any long-term predictions based on the current market. "The market is more complicated than it may appear," he said. "Although it seems right now that giant movies are sucking down the boxoffice in big pieces, it has an ebb and flow. A couple of years ago, we were seeing a more diverse market and were saying that films, to be successful, had to be marketed to 'single demos' -- (like) older women. And maybe that still works." He added, "In many respects, as much as we would love to believe we lead, we actually follow what the audience wants."

(Karen) Didn't I write if anybody wants to step up to the plate, to be my guest? ;-) I don't remember seeing that, but I might have missed it. Okay, then, I'm offering. But first, let me ask - what's the best way to distribute this information? Would I just post it here periodically, or would it be distributed via e-mail only to those who contribute information? That latter option would require more effort on my part since then I have to keep a list of e-mail addresses too.

Fascinating article , boss. You know $$$$is up my alley. Which is why it just don't pay to spend $25 M. to promote a $16. M movie. (THR)" "When you look at the release schedules of the major studios, it is very difficult to find that unique drama that stands out," Malin said. "You'll see it, but when you do, it tends to have major casting to overcome the negatives. 'A Beautiful Mind' is an example. How successful would that have been without Russell Crowe?" Yeah....which is why RC got ripped off at Oscar time. So did RF in TEP.Appalling Dramas need big stars to get funded and even then...there's Shipping News which had all the ingredients and it bombed.I read in the WSJ that when a producer goes in to get funding, the sponsor asked...not "What is the story", "Who wrote it"...but "*Who* is in it". Which is how Possession got the green light.And she made SIL too. Scary for our guys that will never get a crack at good dramas except as supporting actors. Except for television. The industry has changed so much in just the last three years. A pity.

(Evelyn) Anybody think the S&TC segment last night was written by MB? Will let you know when it's replayed; chose to watch something else last night. I know, blasphemy, but it was JN in HT so cut me some slack. ;-) Which is why it just don't pay to spend $25 M. to promote a $16. M movie. No, but if you go by percent of budget, then they should be spending somewhere in the neighborhood of $10-$12 million based on this statement: "Indeed, insiders say that one major studio this summer spent as much as $80 million to market one of its films in an attempt to recoup its $110 million negative cost..." He added, "In many respects, as much as we would love to believe we lead, we actually follow what the audience wants." Talk about a statement that overturns the very foundation of Advertising 101!! I thought all these people came out of B-school? Is not the very purpose of advertising to create demand?

(Rika) Okay, then, I'm offering. But first, let me ask - what's the best way to distribute this information? Would I just post it here periodically, or would it be distributed via e-mail only to those who contribute information? That latter option would require more effort on my part since then I have to keep a list of e-mail addresses too. Guess what? Listkeepers get to make up their own rules...within reason. ;-) Just FYI, the only other b-day list went out by email. Additions got penciled in the margins if people posted that it was their birthday or hinted that it had just taken place. Many people choose not to volunteer this highly secret information. ;-) There's never been any type of listing for where Drooleurs live (their real names, their last names, etc.). Sometimes this info is volunteered or you'll get a general idea, well, at least of the country.

Well I did it and here are my matches: (PLEASE DON'T LAUGH!!!) (However, it was only based on my birthday????) Your best matches Orlando Jones 100% (I'm not a huge 7UP fan) Snoop Dogg 100% (hate rap music) Jonny Lee Miller 98% (Can't deal with Angelina's exes) Josh Duhamel 97% (um, who???) Peter Wingfield 97% (Okay, he's decent)

(Karen) There's never been any type of listing for where Drooleurs live (their real names, their last names, etc.). Sometimes this info is volunteered or you'll get a general idea, well, at least of the country. I mentioned the geographic information because a few people said they'd like to know, I think to find out if there were similarly smitten people nearby with whom to go see a new ODB movie. But I don't think anybody had suggested getting real names or last names - I can't see that those are needed for any purpose on Drool (since individuals can always share more information via e-mail if they choose). Just FYI, the only other b-day list went out by email. Additions got penciled in the margins if people posted that it was their birthday or hinted that it had just taken place. Would anybody object if they were posted instead? My thought was, at the end of each month, to post the birthdays for the next month, and to have the whole list available via e-mail by request.

(Rika) Would anybody object if they were posted instead? My thought was, at the end of each month, to post the birthdays for the next month, and to have the whole list available via e-mail by request. Thank you Rika for taking this on. I suggest the latter: Whole list available via e-mail by request.The less personal info posted on a public board, the better, IMO. Unless the person volunteers the info. Same goes for geographical location.

(Rika) If I can be of any help to you let me know. How do we go about exchanging e-mails? Perhaps those who don't mind giving local could do so when submitting b-days. This information could be attached to their b-day. Then all information available upon request by e-mail. (Karen) Thanks for most informative article. It covers everything we discussed about movie audiences a couple of weeks ago. Doesn't look too good at the moment for the more serious minded movie goer though. Or the more serious actor at present. Perhaps Thanksgiving will be the target again for the blockbusters. That's usually a very profitable time for movies. Between HP, LOTR and JB they cover a wide audience range. Only ones left out it seems are the comedy and romance lovers.

(Rika, et al) I'd love to know where Droolers are (especially) as well as birthdays. Right now, I've no idea of where that info is or how one accesses it or adds to it. Let me know if I can help. If I can tear myself away from slowmo and/or freeze frame, I'm yours ;-)

end tags?

Karen, if I messed up, I'm sorry...

the tag is closed.. Pam, Pam, Pam, I think we need a refresher course in that end tag! ;-)

Wow, I haven't checked O&E in a while, and there was a lot to read! Janet, thanks for the link. My first match was Micheal Keaton (96%). I tried Colin, and got 96% for physical (works for me), and a fairly high score for intellectual, but a low percent for emotional. Am now envisioning highly intellectual conversation while we get some highly stimulating exercise. ;-)) Caribou, you clever thing, wish I'd thought to lie about my birthday. Like many women of fashion, I have been 35 for several years and will continue to be for many more years. Thanks for the article on movie $$$, karen. I find this part of the article very disturbing: "In many respects, as much as we would love to believe we lead, we actually follow what the audience wants." Too many decision are made by committees and market research. Heaven protect us from the focus group! Someone ran a focus group several years ago to ask people what they liked in paintings. The result (and someone actually painted this) was a lovely wooded scene, with a family on vacation, a deer, George Washington (on a horse), and I forget what else.

Wonder how Colin looks in tights? ;-) This was in our local paper: BY MICHAEL SNEED SUN-TIMES COLUMNIST Is famed director Robert "Gosford Park" Altman about to direct an epic in Chicago? Sneed hears Altman, who was in town last week, may be preparing to shoot the movie "The Company," an ensemble project about ballet dancers. Word is he was sppotted huddling with actress Neve Campbell and Brit actor Malcolm McDowell, whose career took off when he starred in Stanley Kubrick's classic, "A Clockwork Orange." The trio dined at Hugo's Frog Bar Thursday evening, chewing over the project and chawing on surf and turf.

Re: the birthday list. So far it sounds like the preference is for a list available by e-mail only. So if you'd like to receive posted birthday wishes on your big day, please e-mail me your birthday (month/day only) and the name you go by here on Drool. I will assume that everyone who sends me birthday information would like to receive a copy of the list. I know there are also some people interested in a who-lives-where information swap, but there seems to be enough concern about it that I'd rather not try to tackle that issue, at least not now. You should be able to get my e-mail address from the link in the header to this response. I hope to hear from you!

ok... now I'm gonna have nightmares... ( picturing Malcolm McDowell in tights) =O

Sounds like you have a plan, Rika. Thanks for taking the initiative. BTW, mine is 18 days after our annual, big blow-out event on Topic 110. (If anyone wants to check out the fun, last year's started on message #439.) When Moon gets back, we'll discuss themes, etc., although I think we have one already. ;-)

Oh, Jeanie, don't even think it! If McDowell is in it he wouldn't be a dancer--too old for that stuff. I can see him as a critic (rather like George Sanders's Addison Dewitt in "All About Eve.") We do have some idea of how Colin looks in tights from SIL. Of course, to play a ballet dancer, he wouldn't have the puffy breeches and cod piece...

(Kate) Of course, to play a ballet dancer, he wouldn't have the puffy breeches and cod piece... CRASH!!!! (that was the sound of me falling to the floor in a faint at the mental image)

To AnneA on her special day There's someone here with a birthday toast for you: Happy Birthday, Anne. I'm so glad to have you among my devoted admirers..... though I hope I can count on you to bring some decorum to the group. There's been rather too much inspection of the cut of my trousers lately.

Could definitely see Colin as a ballet dancer. Would be nice. Has anyone seen The Inheritance by Alcott. Watched it last night. Very good.

I haven't seen The Inheritance, Pam. What is it about? Where did you see it? The Birthday List project is off to a good start. But based on the e-mail feedback I'm getting, I'm going to make a slight revision. Almost every person I've heard from so far has expressed an interested in a "who lives where" list, and has volunteered that information even though I said I wasn't going to collect it. A lot of people would love to find an "ODB movie buddy" who lives reasonably nearby. So here's a new plan. I'll keep two lists - birthdays and who-lives-where. You may e-mail me both your birthday and your location, or just one of the two items (or, obviously, neither), depending on your preferences. Both lists will be available only via e-mail, and only to people who contribute their own information. So the only people who will see the geographic list are those who choose to participate - kind of an "I'll show you mine if you show me yours" arrangement. And, again, the only name attached to your information will be the one by which you identify yourself on Drool (please include it in your message so I know how to list you). Okey dokey?

(Colin)...though I hope I can count on you to bring some decorum to the group. There's been rather too much inspection of the cut of my trousers lately. You know you love it. I think the inspection has gone a lot deeper than just the cut of your trousers, Dahling. Decorum? nevah heard the word. Welcome and Happy Birthday again, Annae. Now, Rika, you know I always get jealous when you send those birthday greetings.

I'm playing catchup today. Somehow I missed several days worth of posts, near the end of July and first week of August. Forgive me as I respond to them. I was particularly interested in the comments and articles about ageism and sexism in the motion picture industry. It is a shame that so many great actresses out there can't get roles. I fear our culture here in the U.S., and to some extent culture worldwide, has become so youth-oriented that this trend will continue and, in fact, will only get worse. For some reason, although teenagers don't have the most earning power, they are the ones being catered to. I suppose this is because they are the ones going to see movies in theaters. Yet isn't this some sort of cinematic Catch 22? Young people go to the movies because the movies are aimed at them. And the movies are aimed at the youth audience because young people are the ones buying the tickets. Although there are exceptions (and several Droolers are fine examples), most people under thirty seem to have a strange idea of what constitutes good intertainment. I had a male co-worker, aged 25, who was a computer guru with a huge salary. He purchased a DVD player, and went shopping every day on his lunch hour to buy more DVDs. I thought he must be amassing quite an impressive collection. Imagine my surprise when I eventually saw his collection in person and found there was not a single movie that predated 1995! Where were the classics? Surely there is more to life than "American Pie." He must have had over 200 DVDs, and most of them were of films I would not watch once, let alone over and over. No wonder so many really good motion pictures come and go quickly, without recouping their production costs, and drivel makes millions!

BTW, Rika-great plan.

(Colin) There's been rather too much inspection of the cut of my trousers lately. Au contraire! I should think not enough if you ask any of us ;-D Happy B-day Anna E!

Oops, I meant Anne A. A little dyslexic typing :-)

Rika, thanks for passing on the birthday greeting from ODB. LOVE the cut of the trousers - can only imagine the contents !! Am going to print it off to put on the fridge - my DH thinks that I am obsessed - believe me, am nothing compared to you guys - I kneel in your presence !! Never thought of using slo-mo for your purposes, am however going to insist that DH watches MLSF with me tonight as a birthday treat, so my thumb may get a workout on the pause button and I will explain to him what I am looking for.

Anne E!! And a very happy birthday!

AWW... shucks everybody. Thanks for all your good wishes - my own family have not been so effusive. Hey...that's it - you are now all my new family, brought together by a common interest !!

(Linda) Now, Rika, you know I always get jealous when you send those birthday greetings. And you know how to guilt me into posting something for you. Okay, here's one for the "What was she thinking???" collection - I've never understood how Bridget was able to think about her underwear (or frame any coherent thought at all) at this particular moment: (Annea) Am going to print it off to put on the fridge - my DH thinks that I am obsessed - believe me, am nothing compared to you guys - Give it time. I was a quiet, proper, modest lady when I got here, and that was only a couple of months ago. :-) Never thought of using slo-mo for your purposes, am however going to insist that DH watches MLSF with me tonight as a birthday treat, so my thumb may get a workout on the pause button and I will explain to him what I am looking for. If you'd do that kind of research with him in the room, you're a braver woman than I am!

I could have sworn I checked the tags to make sure they were closed. What was that I said about coherent thought? I think it should be okay now.

Rika. (Anne) Hey...that's it - you are now all my new family, brought together by a common interest ! LOL. V. well put. We try to be. Thank you. Wish more lurkers would come out. We're not a scary group, you know.

Happy Birthday Anne! :-)

Rika Thanks for the lovely pic. I have to say, I could not believe it when Bridget left ODB at that particular moment to change her knickers!!!! - Was she totally mad!!!

(Rika) I've never understood how Bridget was able to think about her underwear... All I'd be thinking is "Which one of us could get these off the fastest?" ;-P

I'll join in for the birthday wishes: have a great day Anne!

Yup, me too, Mel. When he does that little grunt trying to get her to "give it up"... oh my.. (pitter-pat, pitter-pat) Ok.. .I've been scrolling up.... so, you're telling me that my ideal celebrity is a cobbler?????? (dying of laughter) Maybe he should suggest his profession to "He Who Must Be Adored", so that he can make his own "unusually peculiar footwear" for himself and Liv. ;) (Colin) There's been rather too much inspection of the cut of my trousers lately. Hi, Colin, did you like Chitty-Chitty Bang Bang? (thinking that more than likely Mr. Cuteypie surfs these boards.)

closing tags, hopefully

While I can understand her previous traumatizing experience with the granny panties, I honestly have never fully reconciled her poor, poor decision making there. Even looking at Colin Firth pictures can rarely form coherent thoughts, but in person? She MUST be joking...serves her right that she has to run around in the snow half naked. IMO, she got off easy. :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNE

Uh, Rika, how come everyone can see the BJD picture except me? I hate to make you feel even more guilty, but geez-you got me all steamed up then nothing but a little box with an x in it. Thanks**snif-snif* any way. I know you tried.

Oh, my apologies Rika, I went out came back and presto the picture is here. Thank you very much.Wish I had brought my BJD with me here. Will go to the video store to rent it if I have to.

(Linda) Oh, my apologies Rika, I went out came back and presto the picture is here. Oh, good! That BJD scene reminds me of one from "While You Were Sleeping," where Bill Pullman's character explains to Sandra Bullock's the difference between "hugging" and "leaning." (Megs) While I can understand her previous traumatizing experience with the granny panties, I honestly have never fully reconciled her poor, poor decision making there. Even looking at Colin Firth pictures can rarely form coherent thoughts, but in person? And not just in person, but leaning towards her, only a few inches away. I would have been like a deer caught in the headlights if I'd been in her position. That was one of the spots on the DVD directors' commentary where Sharon Maguire did some drooling - she said, "Ooh, he's so sexy in this scene." Oh, yeah. (Jeanie) When he does that little grunt trying to get her to "give it up"... oh my.. (pitter-pat, pitter-pat) Oh, oh, oh!!!!! Yes! I love that! Hmmmm.... get some sleep or watch the end of BJD first? :-)

Mostly for web authors like Karen R, myself, Ann H, and Marci. There are a series of reports on the mechanics of our site at this web address: http://www.spring.net/reports There is a list of broken links, slow pages, recently changed files, unlinked files, etc. which will help in improving (fixing) our site. Mostly it's stuff that I need to fix, Karen's pages are tight and together. I'm looking for an automated tool to fix links.

(Rika) I've never understood how Bridget was able to think about her underwear... I know. I remember thinking "What are you DOING leaving that gorgeous man to wait while you rummage through clothes???????" Just shows how indoctrinated she is by all those "helpful articles" she reads on romance. The discussion of this point reminds me of many years ago when my boss's daughter was getting married and the mother of the bride thing was going strong. My boss bought a very expensive pegnior set for the bride. One of my colleages muttered, "Yeah, all that money and it'll be on the floor in seconds!" Happy (belated) birthday, Anne!

(Rika) I haven't seen The Inheritance, Pam. What is it about? Where did you see it? It was on the Women's channel. It's a period piece, romance, with Thomas Gibson playing the lead and a girl who I think is on a soap as the heroine. If I give a synopsis it kind of gives everything away in case you chose to see it. Gibson looks good in britches and boots too. Also involves women's lib of the time, which I think Alcott involves in alot of her work. I think you'd like it. No P&P but what is. Enjoyable anyway. (Rika) And you know how to guilt me into posting something for you. Okay, here's one for the "What was she thinking???" collection - I've never understood how Bridget was able to think about her underwear (or frame any coherent thought at all) at this particular moment: Personally I would have had him in a snowbank let alone waiting to get him upstairs, and definitely could not have refused this. However, lets try to analyze Bridget's logic (?) for the moment. We remember how mortified she was when she wore stomach-hugging panties with Daniel so obviously we are to assume she is wearing them again because she goes in to change. Also in all honesty she may be a little doubtful of feelings involved, even though she was waiting for him to return, or at least to hear from him, evidenced by her hesitation in picking up phone and obvious disappointment when it wasn't him. Which kind of confused me with her astonishment at seeing him outside. Oh well. Anyway she could be harboring a little resentment that it took him so long, what a couple of days, to choose her. Even though he, of course, did things in a proper and dignified adult manner, obviously going to NY personally to refuse the offer which was the proper thing to do. Which if she thought (?) about it is understand ble. Enough logic, hormones have kicked in, and absolutely no reason to not have had him then and there, pants or not. I don't think he would have noticed or cared. (Rika) Oh, good! That BJD scene reminds me of one from "While You Were Sleeping," where Bill Pullman's character explains to Sandra Bullock's the difference between "hugging" and "leaning." Wasn't that a good movie. Love BP in that so much. Yes it does remind me of that. Happy Birthday Anne!!!! Did anyone see JN on Regis & Kelly and Conan yesterday? He was better on R&K. They didn't really discuss Possession in either interview, he was pushing his Dean Martin roll. I don't know thought he was kind of flat, but still awfully hot.

(Pam) Did anyone see JN on Regis & Kelly and Conan yesterday? He was better on R&K.They didn't really discuss Possession in either interview, he was pushing his Dean Martin roll. I don't know thought he was kind of flat, but still awfully hot. We discussed that on #43, the JN Topic and #137 Possession topic. The JN Topic has a link to a page with pics from his TV appearances yesterday.

Thanks for info Evelyn will go and read. Still don't know where to post and find all things yet. Thank you.

(Pam) Thanks for info Evelyn will go and read. Still don't know where to post and find all things yet Go to topic 61 and I'll tell you.

If anyone lives or has plans to be in the NYC area... RUN ! don't walk, to see Hairspray! (Just got home from seeing it). And get your tix NOW! Will soon (if not already) be like The Producers and Lion King....almost impossible to get. IMO, it's THE musical to beat at Tony time. I usually only hear people clap and hoot and holler, like I heard tonight, at concerts. Harvey Fierstein is a riot and the girl who plays the lead (can't remember her name right off) is fantastic! Thanks for the recommendation Amy. If I may be permitted to repeat myself.... Moon! Welcome Home!!

Harumphy! "Entertainment Weekly" does not particularly like "Possession" and gives it a "C". The critic seems to think it's a touch campy, or something to that effect. =/

More reviews than you can shake a stick at on: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/137/new but they might also contain lots of spoilers if you're not familiar with the material. So beware.

Thank you KJ and all my friendly firthettes. Time flies!

Just a reminder that the Birthday List Project is still underway. I've heard from quite a few people but I know there are more of you out there would would like to participate in the offering and receiving of birthday greetings here on Odds & Ends. Just e-mail me the name you use on Drool and your birthday. If you'd also like to be part of the Who Lives Where list, include your geographic location (as general or as specific as you want it to be). Both lists will be distributed via e-mail only to those whose information is included on the lists. Incidentally, old-timers, you know when one another's birthdays are, but we newbies don't know and we'd like to. So since we're starting from scratch on the list, it would be great to hear from you as well.

You're doing a great job Rika, thanks.

If TIOBE hasn't come to your town, then I doubt this one will. But Sex and Lucia is a very interesting and well made movie. Seems to have stirred up a real controversy in Seattle, as the two main newspapers refuse to advertise it and have not allowed their columnists to review it so far, even though it won two awards at the Seattle Film Fest. Yes, it has some gratuitous sex (including the always banned erect male member), but it is so well done. Truly erotic and arty. Actually, I was entranced by the male lead's face. During an early scene, when Lucia reveals what she wants, his facial expressions reminded me of Colin. Oh yeah, the film's in Spanish and is unrated, which means it would've been NC-17 so why bother. http://www.empireonline.co.uk/news/news.asp?4093 http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/nm/20020815/od_uk_nm/oukoe_leisure_ban_1 http://www.aint-it-cool-news.com/display.cgi?id=13010 Other foreign/indie recs: Happy Times (Chinese) and 24-Hour Party People (v. funny mockumentary with reference to Icarus right up front and I do like Michael Winterbottom anyway). Looks like we're finally getting Colin's rec, The Last Kiss soon. Saw the trailer and it looked good.

What is The Last Kiss, Karen?

An Italian rom-com that he recommended in some interview. We cynics think he did so because of LD's connection with the film company which made her documentary.

Thank you for info on Last Kiss. And its going to be aired here. I agree that her connection obviously had something to do with statement.

(Jeanie) Harumphy! "Entertainment Weekly" does not particularly like "Possession" and gives it a "C". The critic seems to think it's a touch campy, or something to that effect. =/ Like Karen said #137 has all the reviews posted.So does: http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/Possession-1114793/ TIME: "What happens when a filmmaker with the gift of malice tries to make a love story? Can his fine, scaly hand carry off a caress? And if he can, will he connect with a film audience that long ago shrugged off amour?" True: I'm afraid audiences *and* critics have shrugged off amour. I saw it in Houston. Liked it. Loved the book. TIME: "These actor-poets [JN & JE] make love like chamber music - two cellos playing each other. " *Sigh*. "Only romantics need apply";-)

(Karen) Other foreign/indie recs: Happy Times (Chinese) I saw the trailer a few times before TIOBE and it looked like a lovely story.

Even though this project was one mentioned on the CF topic, for now, I'll put it here. From ScreenDaily: Parker steps back from the Wilde side Robert Mitchell in Edinburgh 20 August 2002 Oliver Parker, in Edinburgh for the UK premiere of his latest Oscar Wilde adaptation The Importance Of Being Earnest on Wednesday (Aug 21) and a Script Factory masterclass on Saturday Aug 17, revealed his next project will be a step away from the Wilde side of his career. After An Ideal Husband and now Earnest, Parker will next tackle a post-war Italian thriller which he had intended to do between the two Wilde comedies. "That one we nearly made before The Importance Of Being Earnest but it was quite hard getting the money together and it was not so obviously commercial" he told a press conference. John Sayles (Lone Star, Sunshine State) wrote the original drafts of the script which Parker is now reworking. [what an ego!] This doesn't mean that Parker has abandoned Oscar however. He is currently developing an adaptation of Dorian Gray as a producer and revealed that the comedies were something he continually rethought, "I would remake the film (An Ideal Husband) already and in a few months probably (Earnest) as well."

(Karen) This doesn't mean that Parker has abandoned Oscar however. He is currently developing an adaptation of Dorian Gray as ... Dorine and I just discussed this as the perfect roll for Colin. OP must have heard us. Hope he heard our choice of actor for it too. Come to think of it hope Colin heard us. He would be so good in this roll.

But that's the one Rupe's been talking about doing for ages.

Rupe may have been talking about Dorian for ages, but while the script has been developing, Rupe has (unlike the title character) been AGING. Dorian is supposed to look young. ODB would be a much better choice.

(Kate) Rupe has (unlike the title character) been AGING. Dorian is supposed to look young. While I'd love to see Colin in this, hadn't considered Rupe...interesting thought. KB would be an interesting choice, but he's not getting any younger looking either. To go along with your comment, I could see them going with someone considerably younger as a starker contrast. (I hate to say it, but Huge might do a decent job. Dorian would be like Daniel, but even more decadent.) Can't believe I just said that.....On way to bathroom to wash my mouth out with soap. :-/

(Dorine)I hate to say it, but Huge might do a decent job. Dorian would be like Daniel, but even more decadent. Said in an interview that he won't do dramas..."leave that to others." Good thinking...ever see "Extreme Measures"? They'd have to put KB on stilts for the Dorian Gray role. Lots of young actors in that Aussie pack that would fit the bill.

(Evelyn) They'd have to put KB on stilts for the Dorian Gray role. ROTFL! Lots of young actors in that Aussie pack that would fit the bill. OK, drawing a blank...who would be some choices? Good thinking...ever see "Extreme Measures"? V. little ;-)

(Dorine)I hate to say it, but Huge might do a decent job. Dorian would be like Daniel, but even more decadent.) Can't believe I just said that.....On way to bathroom to wash my mouth out with soap. :-( It's about time you took your own advice about washing mouth out with soap:-(( On way to bathroom, stop in kitchen and put hot pepper on tongue, then watch Matt Lauer in the am, and thank the Lord you have seen the light!

Excellent interview with JN on his topic. Not just his personal life, but about an actor's life in general. Question: Do you think actors are emotionally immature, because they keep play acting their whole lives? (JN)Well, I think that keeping that childlike sense of wonderment is a good quality, not an immature one. And I think that if everyone is really honest with themselves, in ordinary life there are many facts of ourselves that we choose to present to the outside world. We all play act more than we think. We all hide parts of ourselves, don't we, and show off other sides, depending on the situation and who we're with. ~~~~~~~~ An insightful answer. He's extremely articulate.

(Evelyn) Good thinking...ever see "Extreme Measures... Ever see Sense & Sensibility? Enough said. HG is beginning to look more mature too. Starting to see a few life-lines on the face and a little grey at the temples. Thanks for quote from interview. Watched JN in Emma again last night. He's so cute. "Emmmmmmma". To possess the high degree of imagination IMO it is necessary for a good actor to have it is essential to have "that childlike sense of wonderment" because it has no barriers to stop the creative juices from flowing.

(Evelyn) An insightful answer. He's extremely articulate Since he's single, I want to find him! I must marry this man.... sexy, intelligent, insightful, in touch with his childlike sense of wonderment, and not always home. What more could a girl ask for?! ;-D Wonder if I have a JN radar? Have to check it out next time I'm in the city.

(Pam) HG is beginning to look more mature too. Starting to see a few life-lines on the face and a little grey at the temples. Agreed. I thought he looked somewhat worn in several of the scenes in BJD.

Pam) HG is beginning to look more mature too. Starting to see a few life-lines on the face and a little grey at the temples. Agreed. I thought he looked somewhat worn in several of the scenes in BJD. But in great form in About A Boy.Which incidentally is still playing around here... three months. That one and Greek Wedding are going to go on forever!!

Changing the subject, are JLo and Ben Afflect an item? They were in Miami where he just bought a Ferrari.

Ah, you have been away too long.

Hmmm... I'm gonna ask this question here, although it may belong in the P&P thread. Is the book "The Bar Sinister" any good, and can any of you recommend one of the published sequels, or are they all awful? =) Thanks!

(Jeanie) Hmmm... I'm gonna ask this question here, although it may belong in the P&P thread. Is the book "The Bar Sinister" any good, and can any of you recommend one of the published sequels, or are they all awful? =) There is a lot of commentary on "The Bar Sinister" at Amazon. It's pretty accurate and you might be able to form a good opinion there. As for me, I agree the book needed a good edit. There were certain terms and words over-used, among other things, hence, it could get pretty annoying and thus, distracting. The author got creative with some of the character names, hence names might change at a whim. But...this is Drool, hence I can be honest and say this book was NOT PG-13, is definitely adult audiences only, and if that adds to your enjoyment (it did mine, there are definitely parts I like to re-read) and is not "off-putting" to you, then go to it. (And in case you've not figured it out, the single-most distracting thing as far as I was concerned was an incredible over-use of the word hence, someday I WILL count them.) There IS

...(duh---just keep reading--sorry) ...a story, it can be pretty engaging and you might find it enjoyable.

I agree with BarbS on The Bar Sinister. (My hated word that I'm gonna count some day is "howbeit".) But despite the editing and vocabulary issues, I liked the story, and for the most part I liked her depictions of Darcy and Elizabeth very much. What I really wanted was a copy of the book in a Microsoft Word document, so I could "fix" it.

Not to take away from The Bar Sinister which, I think, has nothing on many of the authors here at Drool, I have been alerted to a quiz. Please keep in mind, my husband is a Harley guy and he gets lots of emails, some a little raunchier than others.......Also, keep in mind, we did this together and got 18 out of 20! http://www.grex.btinternet.co.uk/breasttest2.xls I really hope I don't get inot trouble for posting this! And, since we took it, I found out that they have been sending him a quiz once a week. I'll keep ya'll updated!

Jeanie, I enjoyed the Bar Sinister. I think you will too. I found it much better that some of the other sequels that I read. I read it just after another full viewing of P&P-and I think that it added to my enjoyment.

Oh yeah, one more thing on "The Bar Sinister"... there is one scene that is lifted pretty directly from a fairly famous movie, has anyone else noticed?

I liked The Diary of Fitzwilliam Darcy.

Oh my goodness...Lisa, I got a 19 out of 20. Who knew that I was so good at figuring out boobs. Thanks for the quiz. And based on many of your comments, it looks like I'll be picking up a copy of Bar Sinister, at least to thumb through myself at Borders. :-D

This is a silly thing and I almost hate to mention it but just wondered about the possibility of "bumping" into other drooleurs. I have the high bid on an ebay auction for AMITC right now. I'm hoping to ensure the success of a chick-flick night yet this weekend. Is it bad form or has it ever been considered that we could let each other know when we are swooping in for the kill on an auction and not to run each other up? If it really is objectionable to even consider such a thing, I will punish myself by forcing myself to watch the L. Olivier P&P again.

Barb, I considered posting the same question when I was bidding for CF movies on eBay this summer. I mean, strictly speaking it's collusion, but I think the potential harm is very small. And watching P&P0 when there's so many better ways to spend one's time seems rather severe as punishment! Good luck getting AMITC - I got it on eBay a month or two ago.

Another foreign movie recommendation and very relevant to certain discussions we've had all over this place re: LD ;-) The film is "My Wife is an Actress." Here's the minireview from my alt paper: French actor-director Yvan Attal (wow wow wow!) is a Woody Allen-esque glorifier of neuroses [Ed note: without succumbing to MB's level] in this delectable 2001 romantic comedy about a man dismayed by his actress wife's celebrity and irrationally jealous over her love scenes. Attal is less of a nebbish [not at all one] and more of a realist than Allen when airing his miseries, among them the imagined affair between his wife (Charlotte Gainsbourg) and her current costar, a suave, aging lothario with a wry sense of humor (Terence Stamp). There must be parallels between the on-screen couple and the real-life one--Attal is married to Gainsbourg--and the outrageous claims the husband hears about his wife and his annoyance at all the attention she gets seem so real one can't help but chuckle at his character's anxieties. The film tends to groan under the weight of his obsession--and his sister's fixation on circumcising her son--yet for much of the 95-minute running time the chemistry between Attal's vulne able husband and Gainsbourg's sweet, beguiling wife is irresistible. The terrific score is by jazz pianist Brad Meldau. [Great opening sequence of old Hollywood actresses from the 20s and 30s, plus a truly hysterical filming of a love scene that should go down in the annals of film history.]

"My Wife is an Actress." I saw it and by chance ended up sitting next to Lora! It was funny, I liked it, my DH did not. The filming of a love scene was a hoot.

Jeannie, to get back to the sequel thing, do not bother with anything my Emma Tennant. She wrote two sequels to P&P. Mercifully, I have eradicated the names from my memory. Don't waste your time. Actually, the readers' reviews of her books at Amazon are much more entertaining than the actual books. BTW, if you're looking for a sequel to Emma, try "Letters from Highbury." It isn't a sequel, it's a companion piece, the events of Emma as seen through the correspondence of the school mistress and her sister in London. And now for something completely different...Dame Judi made the news last night. She was supposed to christen the newest Carnival, the Legend. I guess they figured a legend to christen the Legend. So she cut the ribbon, the bottle of champagne swung down, and *clunk* it bounced off the hull. Next, they went onto the gangway, and she tried swinging the bottle by the neck (in manner of bar fight) and hitting the side of the ship. *clunk, splash* the bottle didn't break, and she dropped it. Really, to fail to break the bottle once is unfortunate, but twice shows a real weakness of swing. On the third try, someone helped her swing the bottle and it did break, soaking her, and she became Dame Judi Drenched! (don't blame me, CNN said this first)

Interesting to note how the first from Ananova is based on THR article below, which does not say that GP is "set to star." Ananova: Gwyneth Paltrow to star in US version of Fever Pitch Gwyneth Paltrow is set to star in a US remake of Nick Hornby's best seller Fever Pitch. The film switches the lead character's obsession with soccer to baseball. The Oscar winner will play the long suffering girlfriend of a man who shows more devotion to the Boston Red Sox than her. He was a fan of Arsenal FC in the original. Shawn Levy is in talks to direct the movie, which has been Americanised by comedy writers Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel. The duo have developed the lead female character for Paltrow, according to www.hollywoodreporter.com. "I'm thrilled to be working with such great source material. I've been a Hornby fan for years," said Levy. Colin Firth starred in the 1997 British film based on Hornby's acclaimed autobiography, which tells of his infatuation with Arsenal. A big screen adaptation of Hornby's first novel, High Fidelity, also switched the setting from London to the US. ~~~~~~~~~ The Hollywood Reporter: Levy plays ball with Fox 2000 on 'Fever Pitch' By Chris Gardner After teaming with 20th Century Fox on the upcoming romantic comedy "Just Married," starring Ashton Kutcher and Brittany Murphy, helmer Shawn Levy is in negotiations to direct another romantic comedy for the studio, "Fever Pitch." Levy is signing on to develop and direct the Fox 2000 project based on the Nick Hornby book about the British author's obsession with soccer, specifically the team Arsenal. The comedy team of Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel adapted "Pitch" and Americanized it, with the project now focused on baseball. The story line follows the relationship between a man obsessed with the Boston Red Sox and the woman caught in the middle. The female character was developed as a starring role for Gwyneth Paltrow. Although no deal is in place for her to star, she is known to have shown interest in the project, which is being eyed for a spring start. "I'm thrilled to be working with such great source material -- I've been a Hornby fan for years," Levy said of the author who has penned such novels as "Speaking With the Angel," [sic] "My Favorite Year," [sic] "How to Be Good," "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," the latter two of which were made into motion pictures starring John Cusack and Hugh Grant, respectively. [Ed note: what a slight] Alan Greenspan, Gil Netter and Amanda Posey are producing "Pitch" with executive producers Hornby and David Evans. At Fox 2000, headed by Elizabeth Gabler, the project is being shepherded by director of production Jack Leslie. Levy, repped by Endeavor and the Firm, began his career in episodic television before making his feature debut with the February release "Big Fat Liar," starring Frankie Muniz and Amanda Bynes, from Universal Pictures. He then segued to "Married," which is scheduled for release March 21.

Gwyneth Paltrow is set to star in a US remake of Nick Hornby's best seller Fever Pitch. A definite improvement over Ruth Gemmell.

(Evelyn)A definite improvement over Ruth Gemmell And a very definite improvement over Minnie Driver. Wasn't she mentioned as the female lead when it was being talked about with John Cusack as the male lead? Is he mentioned anywhere as still being associated with it?

Check out Empire's take on the news, especially the pic and the last paragraph: http://www.empireonline.co.uk/news/news.asp?4107

No mention of Cusack and, yes, I remember the early reports that said it would be a Cusack-Driver repairing. I do wonder how it will play with such a big name in the female part. Won't that detract from the male character? Won't he have to be even bigger? Seems rather odd to me.

(empire)"American filmmakers are now planning to take Hornby's ode to Arsenal, Fever Pitch, and yankify the plot even further than they did with Fidelity. " Wonder why WT didn't pick this up. It seems like it's their kind of film.... LOL with RC doing the script and His Favorite Star as Paul. (Too old)

Minkeelander Posting due to patriotism re post 1215 Heath Ledger, Hugh Jackman (and he can sing and is tall too) and Tom Long has promise. Mel Gibson we still claim as our own but getting long in the tooth. post 1240 Ruth Gemmell and FF she never worked for me either good luck to baseball FP with Gwen

Interesting article by one of our favorite vultures of British film criticism (although I think he's spot on in this, except that the old images were totally manufactured as well and many of the stars led morally corrupt lives too. The only difference is that they didn't flaunt them in public or profit by them.). Please note the ending: The dark age of celebrity by Alexander Walker (Evening Standard) Stars, they say, are born. But the behaviour of many of today's stars suggests an illegitimate union between the worst excesses of society and the worst elements of publicity. Stars used to personify likeable virtues, in public anyhow: the romantic charm of Cary Grant, the plainman integrity of Gary Cooper, the working-girl tenacity of Joan Crawford, the patriotism of John Wayne... Reality might show a different face; but it did not push itself into the headlines, in front of the cameras. If ashamed, it hid from its fans. If exposed, it promised to reform. Nowadays, the stars shamelessly exploit every public vice, on and off screen. Depending on the enormity of their indecencies, their celebrity stock goes up and up and up. How did we ever get into this dark age of stardom? It began, I think, when celebrity stripped scandal of its risks to reputation. There is almost no sin a star can commit that does not get presented by his or her publicists as a personality bonus. Stardom now is a virus that fogs judgment of achievement and worth; it distorts the values we place on life and society. Last March, Denzel Washington won the Best Actor Oscar and was hailed as a paragon of his race. What did he get it for? Exemplifying every criminal act in the bigots' book of racist invective against African-Americans: his character in Training Day was an urban psychopath, druglord, woman-beater and stone-cold killer. Some CV to honour! Not that Washington ever behaved thus, but greedily he lent his celebrity to promulgating the advantages of a stardom that does not scruple about making moral choices in the parts it seeks or accepts. Likewise, Cate Blanchett. What on earth did she think she was doing - did she think at all? - when she accepted the role of a criminal ninny in the film Heaven, a woman who plants a bomb that kills four people, two of them children, and then, after a few token contortions of moral discomfort, hares off with a lover for a romantic cross-country manhunt? Stars appear morally blind, to all but their own advantage. If Al Capone were alive today, and cornered by the cops, I honestly believe Public Enemy Number One would come out shouting: "Don't shoot - take pictures." Between criminals and celebrities there is now virtually no dividing line. Money-making has traditionally driven the Hollywood engine. But it has been superseded by the quest for celebrity. It is almost impossible to "kill off" an erring celebrity today. Hugh Grant indulged in a foolish and disreputable sex act within days of being hailed as a bright new star: was he ruined? No, he was made. He became "more interesting" after his transgressions, and turned penitence to publicity gold by bowing his head in the confessional of the chat shows. But stars are not the only ones we should blame for living off the corruption of society in their roles and their lives. There is a pernicious relationship between the great majority of the un-famous - you and me, that is - and the celebrity elite we revere. Stars don't make moral choices any longer. But their public no longer makes moral judgments. The media have developed imagemaking technology to the point where it would be cutting their own throats - or, worse, circulations - if they were to reflect a moral attitude to conduct, personality or performance that would once have brought its perpetrator into disrepute. Most of today's entertainment media is staffed by clever manipulators of public taste: but they come from that generation which never knew what it was to make moral judgments - in fact, actively resisted them, as if morality were a sin as deadly as elitism. Thus the print and electronic media collude with what they know only too well to be the symptoms and symbols of public psychopathy: stars. Many stars, when you meet them, are the dullest, most vulgar, stupid and rapacious folk imaginable. Often talentless, too. But not when their airbrushed faces appear above "celebrity interviews" in the mags, tabloids and broadsheets, or facing some telly personality who's out to gain reflected fame by giving the really famous a soft ride. It used to be said: "Scratch an actor, and you pleasure a masochist." It's truer now to say, "Scratch a star, and you'll never interview another one." Even the sticky ends some celebrities meet - sooner, these drug-fuelled days, than later - don't have any remedial effect. They don't jerk people's appalled regard back to the harm the deceased stars did to themselves or, by their example, to society. Recently, the anniversary of Elvis Presley's demise was "celebrated". But even such a squalid end as the King's evoked no moral disgust. Mortality has become a sort of airbrush that actually retouches the stained image of a Presley, a River Phoenix, a John Belushi, a Janis Joplin, or their pop ilk. When Presley died, a bloated, drugged wreck, did people say: "What shall it profit a man?" Of course not, They said: "Look at the coverage he got." The only offence that a star can commit, it seems, is to rebuff his or her fans' attempts to establish what the American critic Richard Schickel once called the "intimate stranger" bond between star and public: the feeling that these people are our friends and we've only to reach out and they'll be pumping our hand, recognising our face, our worth, our uniqueness. Britney Spears probably started the terminal slide of her career when she allegedly ignored her British fans recently at a London premiere. Celebrity binds us together like the Force in Star Wars. People would sooner hear, read and watch lies than be told that what they're worshipping isn't stardom. It's social sickness.

(Evelyn) A definite improvement over Ruth Gemmell. (Anna) Ruth Gemmell and FF she never worked for me either To each his own. Personally, I loved FP just as it was, including RG. One of my very favorite CF films. I've watched it almost as often as P&P. Hated the video cover, though.

How did we ever get into this dark age of stardom? Stardom now is a virus that fogs judgment of achievement and worth; it distorts the values we place on life and society. People would sooner hear, read and watch lies than be told that what they're worshipping isn't stardom. It's social sickness. Excellent article! Thanks, Karen. Not that it will change anything. :-( (Karen), I do wonder how it will play with such a big name in the female part. Won't that detract from the male character? Won't he have to be even bigger? Tom Cruise? I was surprised to see her with him in Austen Powers, but did their kiss sizzle!!! I saw tongues.

Will the title of the Americanized "Fever Pitch" be changed? The double entendre of the title "Fever Pitch" doesn't exist when the sport is changed to baseball.

(Moon) I saw tongues. LOL. You'll see JN's too next week;-)))

(Kathy) To each his own. Personally, I loved FP just as it was, including RG. One of my very favorite CF films. I've watched it almost as often as P&P. Hated the video cover, though. I love this movie too. It is one of my favorites. Didn't care for RG at all in the beginning, but after the 25th viewing am beginning to find her tolerable. I just don't feel they had any chemistry. Is it customary to remake a movie adapting its cultural aspects? Nick must not have anything new in the offing to do instead. I thought the cover was a real goof. Anyone choosing the video based on the cover was in for a real shock. Anything to make a buck. If this film is a real commercial success with big box-office names I feel bad because it will cause undue comparisons to Colin's portrayal which I thought was really good. It will just make FP into an obscurity. I don't think any actor deserves that. Good article. Thanks Karen. Unfortunately this is the way of the world today and have to agree with Moon that it won't make any difference. With all my heart I wish it could. But I notice with my own children that they are not as star-struck about actors as I was. They will just as quickly pan a movie with someone they like in it as praise a movie. And they don't seem all that interested in their private lives either. So maybe the star influence is not as accute as it once was. We can only hope. JN is interviewed by Jeffrey Lyons this Sunday 8/25 on the Today Show. I heard him advertise it this morning. Should be a good one.

Will the title of the Americanized "Fever Pitch" be changed? The double entendre of the title "Fever Pitch" doesn't exist when the sport is changed to baseball. ] nope title will not be changed because when Pedro Martinez came to the Red Sox in I believe 1998, cover of the horrendous Boston Herald had title "Fever Pitch". Pitching in baseball is the most crucial part to the game. Without a good pitcher, you're not gonna win many games. And Bostonians are definitely feverish about their Red Sox (me being one of them). However, if they strike, wonder how that will go down?????? Former Texas Ranger owner and now President, Bush said if they do strike he'll be "furious". I wonder if it will be feverish tho??? :)

Great article, Karen, and I agree with its discussion of celeb's personal transgressions. But I think the writer severely impaired his case with the example of Denzel Washington (Last March, Denzel Washington won the Best Actor Oscar and was hailed as a paragon of his race.) Lots of very nice actors have played not-nice people (does anyone really think Anthony Hopkins likes human liver with his chianti?). As Jon Lovitz would say, it's ACTING! The example of HG, on the other hand was spot-on. Hugh is very clever about publicity. I sometimes wonder if he didn't expect/want to be caught. Celebs can "spin" almost any transgression into publicity. But this lack of shame is a sad thing. Look at the celeb wanna-be's who go on "bachelor" and "survivor" or have sex in a cathedral. Is the 15 minutes of fame really worth it? (Kathy)Hated the video [FP]cover, though. Me too! When I rented it, I was grateful for the generic Blockbuster box. After seeing the movie, I have to say that the depiction of RG was *ahem* less than accurate? (Laura)And Bostonians are definitely feverish about their Red Sox (me being one of them). Please! I just had lunch with an ex-Mass. friend who is decidedly feverish about the Red Sox. I remember that we discussed the title here before, and I found it funny (then and now) that a title that fit soccer would also fit baseball. I don't know how a baseball version of FP will work--are there enough of you Red Sox fans out there to want to see this? And there will be the inevitable comparisons to another baseball comedy, Bull Durham (am imagining people saying, "Yeah, not bad, but it's no Bull Durham.") I wasn't crazy about RG in FP (they definitely lacked chemistry), but I loved Colin's Paul. He captured the childlike nature of the character. I can't think of an American who'd be good as Paul. I love Cusack, but he's too intense for Paul. The obsession I can see, but could he really be so laid back about the non-baseball parts of his life? I think Bill Murray could play a great American Paul, but he's too old now.

I think Bill Murray could play a great American Paul, but he's too old now ] the visual I got of Gwynnie kissing Bill Murray! ;)

(Kate) But I think the writer severely impaired his case with the example of Denzel Washington...Lots of very nice actors have played not-nice people (does anyone really think Anthony Hopkins likes human liver with his chianti?). I think he's comparing things to a time long ago when they didn't make movies like that. Yes, major actors played flawed characters, but not such a hideous bunch as are now standard fare. Look at a list of Best Actors. No Hannibal types in the bunch.

(Karen, regarding FP) Won't that detract from the male character? Won't he have to be even bigger? Seems rather odd to me. That was my first thought too when I heard this news. That might suggest that the story's going to be primarily from the woman's POV, which I think would be all wrong. Thanks for the Empire link, BTW - I don't blame them for being annoyed. (Karen, re the Evening Standard article) I think he's comparing things to a time long ago when they didn't make movies like that. Yes, major actors played flawed characters, but not such a hideous bunch as are now standard fare. Look at a list of Best Actors. No Hannibal types in the bunch. I'm not sure that's really a sign of moral bankruptcy on the part of actors.... isn't it more indicative of the kind of projects getting green-lighted by the studios? And if nobody went to see those movies, they wouldn't get made. But it is a point well taken that these days you can play a despicable character and still be a major star, where once that wouldn't have been possible. No question that we no longer expect our celebrities (be they actors, politicians, or athletes) to be role models. It's unreasonable to expect famous people to be good people (in fact, I suspect if there's any relationship between virtue and desire for fame, it's an inverse relationship), but at least in the old days celebrities put on a good public face - and in fact had to do so to preserve their careers. Thanks for the article, Karen. You're a busy bee today!

(Laura)the visual I got of Gwynnie kissing Bill Murray! ;) Oh. I was focusing on the interaction with the students and the soccer part. I guess the chemistry was so weak that I don't remember that part of the movie too well. I just remember falling in love with Paul in the first scene with the students when a kid says he read a book over the summer and Paul declares that his career is over, as he could not possibly achieve anything more monumental than getting this kid to read a book.

Jumping in about Charlotte Gainsbourg's new movie... I would recommend anything with Charlotte in it. She first starred in a movie called "L'effrontee", a coming-of-age movie about a teenage girl who was star-struck for a child pianist, and at all but 13 I think, she just "crevait l'ecran" - meaning burst out of the screen. She is very good at portraying vulnerable, tortured (but in a normal way) souls; as a matter of fact, she would make a perfect mate for Adrien LeDuc! :) I think she first met Attal on a movie about young adults being infected with AIDS and what it does to their relationship (I did not see that one but it was supposed to be good). Anyway I'll let the conversation go back to FP. Didn't anybody mention that the Canadian cover for the video was different (i.e. better) than the American one? It is my 3rd favorite CF movie too (after P&P and BJD).

(Rika) No question that we no longer expect our celebrities (be they actors, politicians, or athletes) to be role models. It's unreasonable to expect famous people to be good people But I guess the problem for me is that good people are no longer famous people either...

(Odile) But I guess the problem for me is that good people are no longer famous people either... True. Goodness doesn't make headlines anymore. But I also believe that most good people don't want to be famous, because they don't need the adulation and don't want to lose their privacy.

(Rika) I'm not sure that's really a sign of moral bankruptcy on the part of actors.... isn't it more indicative of the kind of projects getting green-lighted by the studios? Back in the old days, if a star were involved in a scandal (and many were), the studios hushed it up. [Aren't we only now finding out that Loretta Young had a baby with Clark Gable?] They created false public personas for their actors because, if they didn't, the paying public wouldn't go see those movies. The actor would be ostracized. Today, as the article puts forth, quite the opposite is taking place. Notoriety is being used to sell tickets, which gives people the impression that 'moral bankruptcy' is a sign of our times.

(FanPam) If this film is a real commercial success with big box-office names I feel bad because it will cause undue comparisons to Colin's portrayal which I thought was really good. It will just make FP into an obscurity. I don't think any actor deserves that. Yes, and it would be sad for everyone involved with FP. I thought the actors did excellent jobs, especially CF, Holly Aird and Mark Strange. Not their fault bad promotion, especially in the U.S., let it go virtually unnoticed. (Kate F) When I rented it, I was grateful for the generic Blockbuster box. I cornered the market on used ones at my local Blockbusters, and was almost embarassed to buy it -- wanted to explain that it wasn't at all what it appeared to be on the cover. (Karen) Today, as the article puts forth, quite the opposite is taking place. Notoriety is being used to sell tickets, which gives people the impression that 'moral bankruptcy' is a sign of our times. Good article, and you've made a good point. Now, after most of them are long gone, we hear that many of the movie stars from Hollywood's "Golden Age" weren't saints, but for the most part it was neatly hushed up at the time. When it wasn't, it usually ended careers.

(Kate F.) I don't know how a baseball version of FP will work--are there enough of you Red Sox fans out there to want to see this? And there will be the inevitable comparisons to another baseball comedy, Bull Durham (am imagining people saying, "Yeah, not bad, but it's no Bull Durham.") Never underestimate the obsessiveness on of Red Sox fans, as I've learned in the 7 years I've lived in Boston. (And I grew up in St. Louis, where we took our baseball mighty seriously, too!) No matter how good the movie is, though, I can't imagine it being in Bull Durham's league (ouch!)-- IMHO, the story in Bull Durham is much more interesting than FP. Also, much as I like Gwyneth Paltrow, I just can't see her performance as the female lead topping Susan Sarandon's.

Since FP is in my top three CF films, I am disappointed that there will be a re-make. I know the film did not do well here-I guess it was too British for American tastes-but how hard was the sell? Granted the cover was a total disaster, but what about the film? There is only one FP and one Paul for me. RG and all. Great article, Karen. I was surprised at the HG reference-not that it wasn't dead on-just surprised.

(Lindak) I know the film did not do well here-I guess it was too British for American tastes-but how hard was the sell? Didn't it only play in New York, and for about a week? I'm sure it was never in Houston. I love it more every time I watch it, and I've seen it over 20 times now.

(Kate) ...are there enough of you Red Sox fans out there to want to see this? My dad has lived in the New York area for 47 years and still is a diehard Boston fan, so they do exist. But have been thinking about choice of team. Has to be struggling obviously. Yankees are too successful. But how about the Mets? They haven't won a championship since is it 1982 when they oddly enough beat the Red Sox. Came close a few times, but no cigar. So time span between Championships is closer to Arsenal. I wonder why they didn't think of using them instead. I think people might identify with them more. Be good promotion for NYC too. (Kate) Oh. I was focusing on the interaction with the students and the soccer part. I guess the chemistry was so weak that I don't remember that part of the movie too well. I just remember falling in love with Paul in the first scene with the students when a kid says he read a book over the summer and Paul declares that his career is over, as he could not possibly achieve anything more monumental than getting this kid to read a book. He had me at hello. This is when I fell in love with him too. I loved the instinctual interactions he portrayed with the students, in the classroom and on the field; the parents, his family, and his friend Steven. He is a very loving person. Colin really played this well. Of course he was an emotional fuck-wit over Arsenal. No dispute there and he allowed it to have way to much control over him. But remember when he formed his attachment to them was when he was going through a very difficult time in his life. His parents had split up, obviously upsetting him and leaving him feeling insecure. He liked being an Arsenal fan because he was in a group that all loved the same thing. A real sense of belonging. Over the 21 years he followed them they had been his safe-haven, his security. He obviously was a man of intelligence and taste or he couldn't have become an English teacher, so the obsession did not come from an ignorant man. Also I don't know many men who were so willing to face their responsibilities. Instead of running from them, he seemed to welcome them, to actually embrace them. IMO his good points far outweighed his Arsenal obsession and instead of trying to change him I would have married him and Arsenal in a minute. Obviously, I really fell in love with Colin's Paul so will not be able to accept another actor in the same roll. No matter how big a star they choose I don't think they will do as good a job as Colin did. Unfortunately, not enough people are aware of this.

(Laura) the visual I got of Gwynnie kissing Bill Murray! ;) Oh, I know! It was bad enough for me even imagining them married in The Royal Tenenbaums, although in the end, being with your adopted brother is only slightly more distasteful than being with Bill Murray. ;-)

(FanPam)He obviously was a man of intelligence and taste or he couldn't have become an English teacher, so the obsession did not come from an ignorant man. Yes, that says it all. And you're right, the fans became a sort of substitute family when Paul's own family broke up. Paul is a complex character. If they don't cast the American Paul carefully, we'll get only the obsessed fan, and we'll lose the human touch. And if having GP as the female lead causes the story to be shifted to her point of view (huge mistake), then Paul could become a caricature, with body paint in team colors. (Do baseball fans paint themselves team colors as maniacal football fans do? sorry, don't watch much baseball) Although the image of Colin in Arsenal red and white body paint is certainly interesting. ;-)

I don't think you need to worry about a direct remake of FP. IMO, it will need to be a very different film. For the most part, Americans would see nothing strange at all in Paul's behavior or obsession; indeed, the Sarah character would be viewed as the oddball. Another big cultural difference is that, at least during the time Hornby's book takes place, footie was for the lower and working classes, and was a very male dominated pursuit. Some of the tension is caused by an ostensibly educated man acting in a manner like the yobs. Remember, Sarah's roommate refers to him as a football hooligan, even though she's never met him. There's no such class or gender distinction in America when it comes to sports.

Am reposting LizJP's message from 163 that seems to belong here: Topic 163 of 163 [drool]: Colin Firth - part 13 Response 536 of 540: LizJP (LizJP) * Fri, Aug 23, 2002 (21:59) * 5 lines (Karen) Back in the old days, if a star were involved in a scandal (and many were), the studios hushed it up. . . . They created false public personas for their actors because, if they didn't, the paying public wouldn't go see those movies. The actor would be ostracized. Today, as the article puts forth, quite the opposite is taking place. Notoriety is being used to sell tickets, which gives people the impression that 'moral bankruptcy' is a sign of our times. I think it would be nice if scandals weren't career wreckers OR great free publicity. I have to admit, though, that I think the old system of covering up the scandal or having it wreck the actor's career was worse than what we have now. I can't help thinking how many good performances we may have missed from Ingrid Bergman because she was ostracized from Hollywood due to her notorious (so to speak) affair with Roberto Rossellini in the late 1940's. Or, for another example, how many people would be much more reluctant to get help for a substance abuse problem if treatment centers hadn't become somewhat fashionable. Besides, if scandal still wrecked actors' careers, I wouldn't have had the chance to chuckle over Hugh Grant playing the innocent (in Notting Hill) and consoling Julia Roberts because her old nude photos were getting splashed all over the press(grin).

(Linda) I know the film did not do well here-I guess it was too British for American tastes-but how hard was the sell? Granted the cover was a total disaster, but what about the film? I wouldn't say it was too British for American tastes, unless you tried to sell it as a soccer movie, none of which have ever done well. The distributor was a two bit operation, with absolutely no clout. They couldn't get it into theaters because they couldn't pay for promotions. They wanted us to convince theater owners to request the film and for them to buy the ads. As I recall, the fact that it played in NY was largely due to a favor. It also played much later in the DC area (for several weeks), and then it would turn up here and there as part of some *special* event aimed at soccer fans or similar. The cover is another story altogether. But luckily many of us purchased our tapes from Canada, which had the normal cover. Besides, it came out on video in Canada long before it did in the US. IMO they really blew it. The film should've been sold as rom-com and marketed to women (no big rounded breasts with soccer shoes dangling in front; instead Colin's purty face) whose spouses and SO make them sports widows. Who couldn't identify with that? Is universal theme. But what do I know. ;-) Re: FP and the Boston Red Sox Even though Hornby is exec producing the film, he's really not involved. Again, he's the type who sells his work and leaves it into others' hands. The writers (Ganz and Mandel) decided it should be set in Boston. I complained to Nick about this during his book tour for How to Be Good. There was a small group at this tiny little bookshop and I brought up the question of the remake, as it had just surfaced at his Boston signings. (Our GWAPEvine is very good at passing along such info.) I told him Boston was totally wrong, as at least that team had at least made it to the World Series on several occasions. The more appropriate club was the Cubs. He started nodding his head as if he'd already heard about it. I went on to say that sorriest fans in all of baseball, a fact known all over the US, are Cub fans who support a team that hasn't been to the World Series for more than 70+ years (I was getting a lot of audible support from the male members of the audience now!) and that had a national following because gam s were broadcast on a local channel that was carried in many national markets before the existence of cable. Nick tried to explain the screenwriters' rationale and how he thought it was unique that what had been a story with a happy ending in the original was now going to be unhappy, with the Series loss. He said he'd heard about the Cubs. Then, I told him that Bill Buckner, who lost the series, had been a Cub. The guys in the audience ate this up and Nick looked very surprised.

A couple of quotes from the Independent's article about the remake: "No actor has yet been named to take the role of the anti-heroic footballing nerd modelled on Hornby and played against type in the 1997 British film version of the book by Colin Firth." "This remake now promises to spare American cinema-goers from getting to grips with both the intricacies of football's offside rule and the enigmatic psyche of the English male." http://enjoyment.independent.co.uk/film/news/story.jsp?story=327083

(Lindak) I know the film did not do well here-I guess it was too British for American tastes-but how hard was the sell? The book was hugely popular , but sadly, it didn't do well in the UK either despite fairly good promo; (Hey you couldn't miss Mirella Folstrupp all over Colin at the premiere;-)) And got poor reviews. IMO, the film had major flaws. Go back to our discussion on it ..about 4 years ago. (karen). They wanted us to convince theater owners to request the film and for them to buy the ads. LOL. I tried.We called, emailed, cornered theatre managers.... (Hey, I'm still waitng for TIOBE!!)

whose spouses and SO make them sports widows. Who couldn't identify with that? But over here, that's a myth. The sports widow doesn't exist, and hasn't for many decades. That was the point of my earlier post. Women are just as likely to go bonkers over their favorite team as the men are; and if sports aren't their cuppa, they're independent enough to go off and find something else to do. The attitudes in FP seemed a throwback to the '50s, IMO.

Yes, I realize that was the point of your earlier message, but the basis for women "going bonkers" over sports is another one of my pet peeves. So I won't get started on it. ;-) However, I wouldn't say it was a throwback to the '50s. This change was much more recent IMO, probably the '80s.

(Karen) but the basis for women "going bonkers" over sports is another one of my pet peeves. So I won't get started on it. ;-) OK, I'll bite....why?

I'd guess that your pet peeve is that women just want to drool over the cute athletes-- but I have to say that hasn't been my experience with most women who like to watch sports. A lot of us have a genuine interest in the games, know just as much about the finer points as the men do, and it's been that way since I was a kid (which was way before the '80s, I'm sad to say;-). Then again, I am speaking as one who has organized many family trips around seeing games at all the baseball stadiums in the country. So, to me, Sarah was the oddball.

(Mari) I'd guess that your pet peeve is that women just want to drool over the cute athletes Meaning women being sports groupies vs real fans, correct? I fall into the latter category myself.

I'm not sure it will work either. No insult meant at all to football fans, but the lower-class yobbo distinction attached to the sport ("You slept with the hooligan!") is an important part of the plot in FP that won't fly with baseball in the US. Now stock car racing, that would work, at least outside of the largely misunderstood fan base, which has shot down nearly every racing movie made. Hockey has some real possibilities, though. (Dorine) sports groupies vs real fans, correct? I fall into the latter category myself. I used to argue with an ex over Sunday golf versus the Sunday race, so put me in that category too. A picture-in-picture TV helps somewhat. I suspect that Karen's pet peeve is those women who get into a sport simply to please and keep company with, or meet, men. I had it the other way around, at least for awhile; when a golf tournament is boring, it's really boring, especially compared to a nice sliding-through-the-grass-with-flaps-up multicar wreck where you saw it coming, nobody is hurt, and everyone comes out pissed off and ranting. :) On celebrity, I recently heard a feature on NPR that posited the theory that since all income levels buy 'luxury' goods now, the exclusivity is gone. Thus the new 'luxury' item, the thing everyone wants and few can afford, is celebrity. Famous for fifteen minutes, anyone?

(Elizabeth)...those women who get into a sport simply to please and keep company with, or meet, men. Now you tell me ;-)))

(Independent)"This remake now promises to spare American cinema-goers from getting to grips with both the intricacies of football's offside rule and the enigmatic psyche of the English male." How many people do they think they need to spare. OH, Please! I don't think many American cinema-goers really had to worry about coming to grips with the first one. I fall into Dorine's latter category too. I have been a NY Mets fan since 1973. No, our plight is not as sad as the Cubs, but following them is not easy. I guess I love FP because I have been the "Paul" of my family for many years. For a long time I too wondered if life's sh.. because the Mets are sh..or the other way around...and fretted about the Mets when I should have been fretting about something else. Now, I'm watching my 13 year old daughter beginning to do the same over prof. hockey. I'm proud of her. Watching sports gave me lots to do when my friends were getting bored and getting into things they shouldn't. Enough! FP1 forever!

So... is the movie "My Favorite Year", with Peter O'Toole, based on the novel by Hornby?

(LizBeth) is the movie "My Favorite Year", with Peter O'Toole, based on the novel by Hornby? Nope, the book is a collection of football stories and the movie is about a fading matinee idol making the jump to television in the 50s. Great movie, though, worth seeing if you can find it. Lordy, I just thought of WoF and now I'm wondering; just how many movies about fading matinee idols has O'Toole made? :)

I don't know where to put this and my email is different from the usual since I am on the mainland for a few months stalking my very own archaeologist, so I thought if anyone was still interested in checking "it" out, here is an entirely different size-mo-graph than I ever knew existed. http://www.sizehimup.co.uk/

Girls, definitely go to the size-ograph. What a pisser. Too bad we just can't put in a name and see what "comes up". Thank you. Pam

Wonder if we can extrapolate from the "hand" that is always on someone's shoulder during a photo op. Then, his shoe size was clearly visible to us front row types during 3DOR. And the nose is... Thanks Marcia. What a fun site. :)

Someone do the research and bring it to the birhtday party on the 10th. Thanks, Marcia!

LOL Karen! I only know one method of "extrapolation" that is precise and as someone trained in the sciences, I'm a stickler for accuracy. ;-D

(Dorine)I only know one method of "extrapolation" that is precise and as someone trained in the sciences, I'm a stickler for accuracy. So am I-a stickler for accuracy-that is. I think this could be the next big assignment for the coffee wenches. And while we're there, we just might finally get an answer to the left/right question, too. If not, you know what they say about a bird in the hand...

(Evelyn) Go back to our discussion on it ..about 4 years ago. I'd love to. Can anyone tell me where it is, because sometimes finding old discussions can be a real pain.

If you're talking about FP, it might be kind of hard to find because it probably took place on a general CF topic (pre-film discussion separation); it might also not be there, as a result of some file overlays (and general management incompetence by moi). ;-) It's the next film discussion on my list of To Do's to reformat and upload. So I'll try.

Re: Elisabeth S.'s and LizBeth's posts about "My Favorite Year" and WofF I finally got to see WofF about a week ago. I was struck by the similarity in the parts Peter O'Toole played in both MFY (which is one of my favorite movies) and WofF. Can't remember seeing Peter O'Toole in any other fading matinee idol roles, though.

(Karen) If you're talking about FP, it might be kind of hard to find because it probably took place on a general CF topic (pre-film discussion separation); it might also not be there..... There's some discussion of it on Topic 98. I think there's a little bit early in the topic, but try somewhere around response 1650 or so for the bulk of it. (I went through some of the archives when I got here, before I started posting, and when I found a film discussion I noted its location so I could go back and read it after I'd seen the film.) (Dorine)I only know one method of "extrapolation" that is precise and as someone trained in the sciences, I'm a stickler for accuracy. (Linda) So am I-a stickler for accuracy-that is. I think this could be the next big assignment for the coffee wenches. And while we're there, we just might finally get an answer to the left/right question, too. If not, you know what they say about a bird in the hand... So to speak. I knew my research methods training would pay off some day. Count me in!

(Rika) I knew my research methods training would pay off some day. I almost failed my research and design class in my last semester (hard class and a horrible teacher)....if my assignments and/or extra credit had been like this, I would've passed with flying colors!

Nope, sorry, that was a mini-FP II discussion. The other one was in Feb 1998. I'd have to go retrieve the old WordPerfect doc from my old laptop to see what topic/message number it would've be at.

Just checked the old topics. The full FP discussion would've been in Topic 67, most of which is gone, as Topic 98 (film discussion II) picks up in July 98.

(Karen) The full FP discussion would've been in Topic 67, most of which is gone, as Topic 98 (film discussion II) picks up in July 98. Let's see...vid was released in Oct 97 ( I picked it up in London for conversion). so that discussions took place probably Jan 98. OMG [Time to move on E...] A pity it's gone...it was a hilarious discussion. We had some real characters on board then. He did that film to difuse the Mr. Darcy image.He and Nick Hornby struck up a friendship after that.

(Karen) Nope, sorry, that was a mini-FP II discussion. The other one was in Feb 1998. I never claimed to have found the discussion to which you were referring. I merely said that there was "some discussion of it" on topic 98.

If this were really (solely) about Jude, I'd have put it on his topic, but it is broader. From the Guardian: Face value So what if the star's pretty but the role isn't? The rewards for taking it could be handsome. For some actors, playing ugly is all about respect, says John Patterson Saturday August 24, 2002 Jude Law, my God, would you just look at the state of him: teeth the colour of slowly moulding orange-rind, catastrophically ragged hair-do, scuttling, psycho-insect deportment, plus, towards the end, a nasty dose of broken glass shards embedded in the face. There he is up on the screen in Road To Perdition, acting his little socks off as a psychotic contract killer, having apparently done everything humanly possible in order to dim and occlude that bright beauty that lit up Matt Damon's eyes in The Talented Mr Ripley. If Ripley saw this guy he'd probably beat him to death with a boathook in no seconds flat. In short - look away lest ye be turned to stone, because he isn't one bit pretty. And it's not easy to make Jude Law look this terrible. Sexiness can't be got rid of with a few scowls and a spot of make-up. No, this kind of auto-vandalism takes a great deal of care, application, technical expertise and attention to all the queasy little details. It takes a team, working around the clock. The word from the set is that Law's good looks were so hard to eradicate, so impregnable, that getting the job done required at least three trips to the Ugly Chair. And to what purpose? Why do actors blessed, or cursed, with inordinate good looks so frequently go to great lengths to make themselves look like cowpats that have been force-fed through a mangle? Why does someone like Brad Pitt, whose good looks are of the inarguable, no-doubt-about-it variety, not the matter-of-taste kind, dress up like a tramp for the paparazzi, while cultivating the sort of explosive facial hair that makes a yeti look insufficiently hirsute? Why does Tom Cruise move heaven and earth to get Vanilla Sky made, when he spends half the film with his handsome face carved up by foot-long disfiguring scars? Is it because Ugly is the new Cute? Or is it about Respect? It's got to be Respect, hasn't it, because if Ugly really was the new Cute, there'd suddenly be all sorts of career opportunities for squat, creeping, bald, fat, cheap and nasty looking types. And there's no sudden shortage of folks bearing those characteristics - never has been, never will be. So why aren't they getting the work, when after all they certainly have the necessary qualifications written - indeed, smeared - all over their faces? Instead movies are taking honest work off the real uglies by taking bona fide cuties and carving these alarming grotesques from them. The uglies ought to unionise. Respect it is, then. Beauty, as anyone beautiful will tell you, carries its own set of curses along with all the myriad blessings. Foremost among them is the assumption that beauty alone has got you where you are today, not talent, brains or charm; that beauty is somehow essentially frivolous and unserious, and an unfair advantage to boot. Beauty also tends to work against realism on screen. Just look at Michelle Pfeiffer in Frankie And Johnnie. That's a role that needs to be played by normal gal Edie Falco, and indeed Falco is currently playing the role on Broadway, and receiving acclaim where the pretty girl got brickbats. It used to be the case that the Cary Grants and the Gary Coopers got the money, the babes, the chauffeured limos and the international renown, but it was the Rod Steigers and George C Scotts who won the Oscars. These days the marquee-topping babes and himbos want the money AND the acclaim, and if necessary, they'll cut off their noses to improve their faces - and thus their chance of Oscars. They've all seen The Elephant Man. They know the drill. So it is we come across Nicole Kidman, donning a John Merrick-like prosthetic chin extension and a fake hook-nose over her own button one, so as to be able to portray Virginia Woolf in an upcoming biopic. The girl looks nothing like Woolf, who was, for all her literary abilities, more than a tad horsey in the face. Instead of hiring Kidman, why didn't the film-makers get someone like Fiona Shaw who, while not being particularly horse-faced, does bear a considerable and very fetching resemblance to the author? Who, you ask? Well, there's your answer. No one wants to see one of Britain's best stage actresses give a straightforwardly excellent performance: they want to see their It-girl Kidman wearing a rubberised stunt-face, just like the grotesques in Dick Tracy. Paint her green and she'd look just like the Wicked Witch of the West. Which takes us neatly back to the beginnings of the phenomenon, the year 1966 and Elizabeth Taylor's Oscar-winning performance as the shrill, blowsy, drunken, overweight harridan Martha in Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf? It looks like nothing today, but back then it was a very big deal for someone like Taylor, normally considered the gold standard for Hollywood glamour, to pile on the pounds and run over her own beauty with a truck. Forget three trips to the Ugly Chair - Martha, swearing, falling over, hair in hectic disarray, booze and fag-ash stains from eyebrow to ankle, looks like she fell 50 feet out of the Ugly Tree, hit every branch on the way down and when she landed, got 40 whacks from the biggest, knottiest Ugly Stick known to man or beast. Three years earlier she looked radiant in Cleopatra, but no Oscar. Now she looked like a train wreck, and the statuette was hers. Taylor might have been taking tips from Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, who at that moment were both based in Britain and busily making an impressive series of bad films that collectively form a strange subset of the horror genre - the Old Bag Horror Movie. The Nanny and Berserk! were just two movies in which they squandered their reputations for cash, behaving in the most swivel-eyed, barmy and undignified manner imaginable. They spent a large part of the 1960s replaying their roles in Robert Aldrich's robustly crude camp classic Whatever Happened To Baby Jane? Remember Joan in a wheelchair being served cooked rats for dinner by Bette, whose atrociously unflattering make-up caused her to resemble a clown who's been custard-pied for a month of Sundays? Maybe Taylor simply reversed the equation: she squandered her beauty, not her reputation, to enhance her career. And it worked, and plenty of people have followed her example. The process is perfectly simple: bad reputation as an actor? No problem - just ugly on down. Thus Keanu Reeves grows some Charlie Manson hair, dons a disastrous beard and does some extensive reupholstery work on his thespian rep in The Gift, in which he plays a wife-beating psycho (a dash of moral ugliness is just as good as the facial version). There's Cameron Diaz in Being John Malkovich, dowdy as a crack-addicted clippie. It must have taken a year in the Ugly Chair to sandblast away that beautiful face. Likewise Terence Stamp, usually too handsome to live, dressed a lot like Baby-Jane-era Bette in Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert. We've had scar-faced Tom Berenger in Platoon, Johnny Depp in Edward Scissorhands and, come to think of it, Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas (bring on the baldie-wig), and Robin Williams in The Fisher King ("Wardrobe! My tramp suit and exploding hairpiece, if you please!"). And a favourite example is Mel Gibson sporting half a face-worth of mixed pizza toppings in his directorial debut, The Man Without A Face. It all comes back to Jean Cocteau's 1944 Beauty And The Beast, a title that encapsulates all the issues above. It starred the insanely handsome Jean Marais, then roundly dismissed by French critics as a no-talent boy-bimbo who'd only succeeded because he was Cocteau's boyfriend. Cocteau just suited him up like a warthog and, hey presto, the plaudits just came raining down. It's a simple and enduring principle: make yourself as ugly as all get-out, and life will be just beautiful.

(Evelyn) A pity it's gone It's not gone entirely. I have it. (Rika) I merely said that there was "some discussion of it" on topic 98. Okie doke. I just didn't want anyone to think that *that* was it. :)

OMG [Time to move on E...] LOL! Can you believe we've known each other that long? I plan to rent Road to Perdition in the future, but those who have seen it, would you say Jude will be nominated as BSActor? I think he's great.

Jude is good as usual in Road To Perdition, but the role is very small. Also, there are 2 others in this who would more deserve a supporting actor nom: Paul Newman, who is *wonderful* and the kid who plays the 12-year-old son, Tyler Hoechlin. This boy is simply amazing in the role. Good film--dark, beautifully written, acted and filmed.

Great article, Karen, thanks. I hadn't realized how many actors have "gone ugly" to get respect. I remember Gibson's "Man Without a Face." I recall noticing that, not only did he not have his good looks to fall back on, he also suppressed his little "cute tricks" and charming grins that he used in a lot of his movies. Changing his face changed his acting. Some actors make it on looks alone. The handsome ones who are also talented can get lumped in with the himbos. Doing an "ugly" part is way for them to show that they can get the job done without relying on looks. Colin has often said he thought he'd be a character actor because he never thought of himself as handsome enough for leads (must have been raised by vampires, in a house without mirrors). It's rare for the less-than-gorgeous character actor to become a star and be in People's Most Beautiful, etc. But they often get the most interesting parts, and are often the most interesting people. I think Colin has the soul of a character actor and the face of a lead. I thought the comments about Michelle Pfeiffer in Frankie and Johnny were interesting. I didn't know anything about the reviews she got, but I remember thinking how beautiful she is, even without a lot of makeup enhancing her looks. Beauty also tends to work against realism on screen. I hate to admit to being so shallow, but was struck by how unattractive the woman in DQ was. When Colin kissed her, I remember thinking, NOOO, let him kiss someone pretty. But her unattractive looks reinforced Donovan's idealism. It's easy to say "looks don't matter" when you're dealing with someone handsome or pretty. But to make a point or make a part work, you have to hide the good looks. No one wants to see one of Britain's best stage actresses give a straightforwardly excellent performance: they want to see their It-girl Kidman wearing a rubberised stunt-face Unfortunately, the tendency of stars to do "look at me, I can act when I'm not pretty" does take roles away from other actors who are more suitable--but less bankable. On a related note, did anyone hear about Jamie Lee Curtis doing a photo shoot with no makeup and special hair-do, then more photos after THREE HOURS of work, just to show the difference, that what you see is not really what they are? I forget what magazine it was.

(Kate) On a related note, did anyone hear about Jamie Lee Curtis doing a photo shoot with no makeup and special hair-do, then more photos after THREE HOURS of work, just to show the difference, that what you see is not really what they are? I forget what magazine it was. More Magazine is using pics of the "unglam" Jamie. Doesn't mention about comparison pics. On sale tomorrow it says.

Karen, you can't get ALL the Hornby movies made in Chicago!!!!!!! C'mon, you already had High Fidelity (and Chicago was ALL wrong:)) Just because the sox have made it to the World Series, we still haven't won one since we lost Babe Ruth. How many times did Arsenal make it, so close, yet so far. same story. it's all about the history and Boston has more history than the cubs. besides, having the yankee/sox relationship developed (as long as they leave that icky Jeter out of it) should be interesting.

Someone down in Delaware must have REALLY liked Minority Report.... Delaware Police Compile Future Suspects List Database Contains Names of People Likely to Break Law .c The Associated Press WILMINGTON, Del. (Aug. 26) - Police in Delaware are trying to get a head-start on cracking crimes before they happen by setting up a database that contains a list of people who officers believe are likely to break the law. Defense attorneys and the American Civil Liberties Union oppose the database, which lists names, addresses and photographs of the potential suspects - many of whom have clean slates. The precise grounds for putting a person on the list aren't clear. But since the system was introduced in Wilmington in June, most of the 200 people included in the file have been minorities from poor, high-crime neighborhoods. State and federal prosecutors say the tactic is legal, but defense lawyers object to the practice. ``We should enforce the existing laws, but not violate them, to catch the bad guys,'' said Theo Gregory, City Councilman and public defender. ``We've become the bad guys, and that's not right.'' Mayor James Baker called the criticism ``asinine and intellectually bankrupt.'' ``I don't care what anyone but a court of law thinks,'' he said. ``Until a court says otherwise, if I say it's constitutional, it's constitutional.'' The pictures are being taken by two Wilmington police squads created in June to arrest drug dealers. The units are known in some neighborhoods as ``jump-out squads'' because they jump out of cars and make quick arrests. Many of the people whose photos have been taken for the file were stopped briefly for loitering and let go.

"Until a court says otherwise, if I say it's constitutional, it's constitutional." Can't argue with that logic. ;-) However, they won't.

The Jude Law article reminded me of a section in a 1978 book called Flesh and Fantasy. (No explicit photos, just a cynical book about Hollywood.) Here are some of their tips, and the examples are from the book: How to Win an Oscar Be deserving the year before. . . Be Hollywood's answer to Jackie Robinson . . . (e.g. Sidney Poitier) If you're a tough guy, dust off your tap shoes (e.g. James Cagney) If you're a funnyman, play it straight . . . If you're a glamour girl: Show your age (e.g. Vivian Leigh in Streetcar) Muss your hair and let it all hang out(e.g. Elizabeth Taylor-Virginia Woolf) Let your eyebrows grow in . . . Tear your dress . . . Trade your Diors for Sears catalogue chic . . . If you're a good girl, play a bad girl . . . Washed up? Make a comeback . . . Be an underdog . . . Hang around long enough . . . Expire. I'm sure we can all think of a few Oscar winners who fall into these categories! Liz p.s. apologizing in advance if I messed up the HTML. Here goes . . .

In other words, play against type. ;-)

(Liz) How to Win an Oscar Good stuff. Thank you. (Karen) In other words, play against type. ;-) Absolutely correct.

Delaware Police Compile Future Suspects List Database Contains Names of People Likely to Break Law i used to live in delaware....there was nothing going on there (except tax free shopping!). this must've been how they occupied their time. :P

FYI for those who live or are going to be visiting in the NYC area at the end of Sept, The New Yorker Festival will be going on with a variety of panel discussions from writers (book,film), directors, and other artists. NLB and Sam Shepard are doing one, Martin Scorcese w/ David Denby another, for example. Tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster starting Thurs, Aug 29 at 9am. This link will take you to the page where you can browse the schedule. Each panel has a fee. The main festival page may have a direct link to Ticketmaster for the events. New Yorker Festival

(Karen) In other words, play against type. ;-) (Pam),Absolutely correct. You mean a deaf-mute? ;-)

(Karen) In other words, play against type. ;-) (Pam),Absolutely correct (Moon)You mean a deaf-mute? ;-) LOL!!! So was Marlee Matlin in Children of a Lesser God playing against type or stereotyped?

*Nothing* is going right for me today...closing tags, I hope

(Doreen) So was Marlee Matlin in Children of a Lesser God playing against type or stereotyped? Stereotyped, I suppose. But the "How to Win An Oscar" list left off another way -- do a great job in what the Academy might see as a one-shot chance (for whatever reason). Of course, MM has remained impressive throughout her career, but they probably couldn't envision that many roles being available to her.

Some of you have sent me Birthday List information, and you haven't heard back from me. I apologize - I've been buried up to my eyeballs getting ready for the new semester that started yesterday and got behind on e-mail. But I've got your messages and I'll definitely be adding you to the list. You should hear back from me over the weekend. And speaking of birthdays, Karen, weren't you saying something not long ago about discussing a theme for the BIG birthday party when Moon Dreams came back? Time's a-wasting - just two weeks to go....

Whoever wants to start discussing this year's birthday bash, go right ahead on topic 110.

(KathyF): But the "How to Win An Oscar" list left off another way -- do a great job in what the Academy might see as a one-shot chance (for whatever reason). Actually, the book included a few more categories in the "How to Win an Oscar" list, one of which deals with the "one shot chance": "Give your right arm for your country." It referred to the Oscar won by Harold Russell for "The Best Years of Our Lives." Russell was a WWII vet who lost both hands in the war, as did the character he played.

(Rika), Karen, weren't you saying something not long ago about discussing a theme for the BIG birthday party when I kind of like "The Turning of the Ocean Liner" as a theme. ;-) It's time to hop on board on 110. Will we be able to start "The Turning of the Firth?" ;-)

(Moon) You mean a deaf-mute? ;-) No, definitely not. How about a good R and a great roll in the hay?

From THR: State of the art house: hot By Jon Matsumoto In terms of boxoffice breakthroughs and mainstream exposure, it's been a banner year for art house exhibitors. Riding high on the success of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," "Monsoon Wedding" and "Y tu mama tambien," the specialty arm of the cinema world is benefiting from a cultural explosion that has made independent, edgy and foreign fare big business in Middle America. Although art house boxoffice grosses are down compared with previous years' tallies, exhibition executives say the figures are still strong when seen against the increasingly competitive theatrical landscape -- especially considering that many potential indie Oscar contenders have yet to be released. So, while production and distribution entit ies in the art house arena face their own set of financial problems, exhibitors are taking measures to ensure that new art house enthusiasts remain enamored of the product and that even more converts will enter the fold and continue to drive business. At this point in 2002, art house titles are estimated to account for just 3.4% of the total boxoffice -- though year-end titles should drive that figure higher. Last year, films like "Gosford Park" pushed art house ticket sales to 5.25% of the total boxoffice. In 2000, Oscar nominees "Traffic" and "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and other art house films represented 8.42% of the total boxoffice, according to Exhibitor Relations president Paul Degarabedian. That kind of success is predicated largely on the expansion of the art house market in the Midwest. Ray Price, vp marketing at Los Angeles-based Landmark Theatres, the nation's largest art house circuit, says that when he first entered the theater business in the early 1970s, the audience for specialized films could be found primarily on the two coasts. Now, Landmark operates 175 screens at 54 theaters in cities as culturally diverse as Berkeley, Calif., Los Angeles, Dallas, St. Louis, New York and Milwaukee. "The middle of the country constitutes more of our business for art films than the coasts just because there are millions and millions of people all over the country and these markets have suddenly grown up," Price says. [Ed note: Bicoastal condescension mentality at work; can't go to these films if they're not playing anywhere or if you have to travel one hour into the city to an urban theater without parking facilities. Grrrr!] In May, Landmark launched a new eight-screen theater in Bethesda, Md., and in the complex's first eight weeks of operation, it became the chain's best-performing theater. "We're seeing art films doing extremely well in the suburbs of Chicago, where 10 years ago there weren't enough screens out there for art house product," Paramount Classics co-president David Dinerstein adds. "You can take it a step further and go into places like St. Louis, Phoenix and Cleveland, where (art films) are doing very well." Experts say one of the factors driving business -- apart from the quality of the latest wave of independent films -- is the reduction in the number of mainstream cinemas nationwide. When bankrupt exhibitors shuttered underperforming operations during the late '90s and the past two years, they helped level the playing field in favor of art houses. "Business is good, and it will continue to be good for art theaters," says Greg Laemmle, vp at Southern California art house chain Laemmle Theatres. "As the major chains lower screen counts around the country, we hope and anticipate that many of these theaters will be acquired by independent operators and small chains and will reopen as art houses. In most cases, we're not competing with these theaters." In the Los Angeles area, Laemmle has converted two commercial movie theaters into art houses. The feeling among many exhibitors is that the growth of art houses and art films as a whole helps everyone involved in this end of the business. "Anything that increases the ability of the small distributors to grab and hold screens (across the country) is going to be good for the art house business overall and in the long run," Laemmle says. Ironically, what has been an embarrassment of riches for art house exhibs hasn't always translated to money in the bank for independent filmmakers and distributors, who find themselves duking it out in an increasingly competitive battle for screens. Underperforming titles prompted IFC Entertainment to recently shutter its film-finishing division Next Wave Films and led to the unraveling of Lot 47 Films with the sudden departure of its president and co-founder, indie stalwart Jeff Lipsky. (Even with one of this year's indie success stories in "Atanarjuat" (The Fast Runner), the cash-strapped Lot 47 has been struggling to pay vendors and keep its doors open.) Despite the proliferation of more expensively made independent films -- generally coming from such studio-based indies as Sony Pictures Classics, Fox Searchlight, Fine Line and Paramount Classics -- only about 40 of the roughly 1,000 independent narrative films made in the United States each year receive theatrical distribution in markets other than Los Angeles and New York, according to R.J. Millard, vp publicity and marketing at New York-based Independent Distribution Partners, a joint distribution partnership involving Samuel Goldwyn Films, Fireworks Pictures and Stratosphere Entertainment. Still, even those few titles often must struggle to distinguish themselves amid a sea of blockbuster franchise movies or high-profile awards season hopefuls, and major studios have a huge financial advantage when it comes to getting films noticed. "With any particular (major studio film), audiences are simply inundated with (advertisements) in over six or seven different types of media," Millard says. "We have a much smaller budget to help get these films seen and noticed." The fact that the definition of what constitutes an art house movie is somewhat subjective makes it difficult to pin down exact production and marketing budgets, but Robert Bucksbaum, president of independent boxoffice analysis firm Reel Source, put a roughly $5 million price tag on the average budget and marketing costs for an art house film. Bucksbaum last year polled an array of art house distributors, including Miramax, Artisan, Lions Gate and smaller companies like IFC films, to arrive at that figure. To augment publicity and advertising campaigns, Landmark Theatres recently launched its own publication called FLM (Film at Landmark). The free quarterly magazine contains descriptions and short articles on current and upcoming art films. Landmark also focuses on grass-roots marketing; if an Italian film is playing at a Landmark theater, for example, the company tries to alert local Italian restaurants, businesses and community organizations to its arrival. "One of the best marketing tools for any independent film is the yellow pages," Landmark executive vp and film buyer Bert Manzari notes. Those efforts might be paying off. Price says business at Landmark was up 30% during this year's first quarter compared with the same period a year earlier. Taking heed of that kind of success, a number of art houses have begun marketing films directly to the increasingly diverse ethnic communities within the United States. Much has been written about how "Y tu mama tambien" played into the current mainstream obsession with Latin fare, but the Filipino-American indie "The Debut," as one example, also proved profitable last year largely by appealing to sizable Filipino communities in such areas as San Francisco and Los Angeles. "You go to that constituency that's really interested in the film and get them as excited as possible," Price says. "But you're also working with the more general audience and telling them that there are reasons why they need to see it, too. There are those people who want to see the film quickly, and then there are those people who take six weeks to get there. (With art films) somebody has to hold the fort until that second group gets there." That second group is one of the key reasons IFC Films' "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" (produced for Gold Circle Films by Playtone, the company co-founded by actor Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman) has become such a success story. Although the movie has achieved a crossover popularity, when it was released in April it targeted Greek audiences in eight U.S. cities. To date, the $5 million indie film has grossed about $65 million, expanding to 1,329 theaters across the country. "Playtone had preview screenings for 300 Greeks in every community where the film initially opened (in both art and commercial theaters)," notes Nia Vardalos, the star and screenwriter of the semiautobiographical comedy reflecting Greek-American culture. "When the film did open to the public, these same Greeks liked the film so much they went again and brought their two non-Greek neighbors." Although Greg Laemmle calls it a "great time" for foreign-language cinema, many in the art house world, Laemmle included, have witnessed a strong push toward English-language art films, driven largely by economics. Simply put, producers are likely to fetch more money for movies in English from foreign, pay cable, broadcast and other markets. One industry insider believes "Y tu mama tambien" ultimately will have less value than "Greek Wedding" in that subtitled films are at a particularly heavy disadvantage when it comes to ancillary revenue. That said, Manzari says the single biggest test facing Landmark Theatres is finding and cultivating a young adult audience that will help sustain the art house business in the coming decades. Reaching that new demographic is more difficult, he says, because those moviegoers are accustomed to elaborate and expensive marketing campaigns that span several types of media. "The younger audience presents a challenge we've never faced before," Manzari notes. "We're trying to come up with all sorts of things (to attract them)." The benefits of reaching across demographic boundaries was underscored in 2000 by Sony Pictures Classics' Oscar-winning Chinese-language martial arts film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon." The movie, which opened in art houses and then expanded into suburban multiplexes, grossed $128 million and stands as the benchmark of what an art house film can achieve. Still, there are drawbacks to that kind of success. When art house titles break into the multiplex, they drain important revenue from the coffers of smaller chains or independent cinemas. "The art house world, if anything, has been victimized by the success of quality independent film," Laemmle states. "The best thing that can happen for the art houses is for Hollywood to continue to make more great and popular Hollywood movies. That will leave the art house cinemas to play quality art house films."

I can tell you that there are so many foreign films that never reach the US. I think the US would rather concentrate on showing "Independents" than foreign films. "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" (produced for Gold Circle Films by Playtone, the company co-founded by actor Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman), was screened in many cineplexes that other indies and foreign films never reach. That is not a good example to use. In Miami,I am lucky to have many film fest throughout the year. The Hispanic FF, Th Brazilian FF, The Spanish FF, The Jewish FF, he Gay and Lesbian FF, The Black FF... we even managed an Italian FF. Plus we have the Miami FF and the Ft Lauderdale FF, and... we still don't manage to get a good percentage of quality foreign films from Russia, Hungary, Poland etc. BTW, thanks to Mari for recommending "Ghostworld" I liked very much!

Ms. Moon... I only have one thing to say to you.. "Mirror.. Father...Mirror" LOL!!!! My daughter is still leaving voice mail containing that little phrase. I also liked "Doug"... wasn't he frightening? I'm pretty sure I've seen him, or someone remarkably like him, down at the Circle K. =D

Thanks for very interesting article, Karen.

I wonder if this might have some possibilities. From ScreenDaily: Bright Young Things finds new home at Civilian Content, Icon Adam Minns in London 29 August 2002 Stephen Fry�s Evelyn Waugh adaptation Bright Young Things is expected to be one of the first projects to re-surface after the closure of the UK�s FilmFour. The 1930s-set satire with Judi Dench and Peter O'Toole is finalising a deal with Civilian Content, parent of UK National Lottery franchise The Film Consortium, and the UK arm of Mel Gibson and Bruce Davey�s Icon Entertainment. Tax financier Vision View is also on board. The deal is understood to be still pending approval from the Film Council, the UK body which administers lottery funding. The production fell foul of FilmFour parent Channel 4�s shift in strategy to focus on low budget UK films made primarily for TV. The broadcaster folded stand alone film division FilmFour back into the main channel as part of the move. Shooting is scheduled for the autumn through Revolution Films, the production company of producer Andrew Eaton and director Michael Winterbottom. Fry is to make his directing debut on the film, a self-penned adaptation of the book Vile Bodies. A Gosford Park-style ensemble cast of UK and US actors is still being firmed up. �It�s essentially a story about night clubbing, drugs and drink and therefore has nothing inconnection whatsoever to the modern age� Fry said when FilmFour unveiled the project at Cannes.

A Gosford Park-style ensemble cast of UK and US actors is still being firmed up. Hmm, sounds promising. I wonder how close to Islington the location(s) will be? �It�s essentially a story about night clubbing, drugs and drink and therefore has nothing inconnection whatsoever to the modern age� Fry said Fry always makes me laugh. Thanks for the article, Karen. 1930's, Evelyn Waugh, night clubs. I'm thinking Colin in evening clothes, martini glass in hand. I'm thinking Cole Porter music in the background. It would look good. Fry can write and he seems to have a delightful sense of the absurd. Wonder how he'll be as a director? Is it too soon to make ANOTHER trip to the store for candles? Hey Evelyn, if I buy the book, want me to send it on to you?

(kate)Hey Evelyn, if I buy the book, want me to send it on to you LOL. Pl. no. Looked at GWAPE today at Border's. Boss said not to dare buy it...I'm a born jinx. My nightstand is overflowing with Colin-rejects now;-)

(Kate) Fry always makes me laugh. Thanks for the article, Karen. 1930's, Evelyn Waugh, night clubs. I'm thinking Colin in evening clothes, martini glass in hand. I'm thinking Cole Porter music in the background. It would look good. Fry can write and he seems to have a delightful sense of the absurd. Wonder how he'll be as a director? He makes me laugh, too. I think he's very talented. I like what you're thinking here, definitely evening attire and martini glass for Colin.