Know I have a question !!! Does anyone know when SIL will be shown in germany ?? Does anyone know about a premiere in germay with CF ??? Ann, I would like to meet you in London, but I can not get a day of on Tuesday to join you at the premiere :-( But maybe CF will be at the german premiere (Berlin, Hamburg, Munich) ??? Then I will flight there and make a lot of photos !! :-)

Sabine: If Renate doesn't have one in Germany, I'll send you mine since your VCR plays NTSC . Some way or another...we'll make sure you get to viewthe interview...it's a gem. And God only knows when we'll see another.

Sabine, I have the PAL copy of the A&E interview and I will be sending it to Maria and then she is going to send it on to Elena and Allison ,if you will let me have your address Allison. It could then be sent on to you but it may take a while. Perhaps as you are able to use PAL and NTSC it would be better if you take up Evelyn's very kind offer. If not email me and I will explain. BTW the London Premiere on Tuesday is according to Lisbeth's Timeline The European Gala Charity Premiere so maybe that includes Germany.

(Bethan) Well, I'm not one to gossip, but, Martin said that his cod piece was bigger than Ben's cod piece, which he referred to as a "perky little thing". :-) I think men take umbrage at this sort of thing (though spoken in jest, of course)!!! Thank goodness Earls don't wear cod pieces..it sounds as though there was some locker room rivalry going on! I recall reading about a similar competition between Crispin Bonham Carter and CF ..... they say it was only the stuffing shirt, but do you believe everything that's written? Wish I could also recall *where* I read it. ;-) Anyone here with a better memory? Sabine: Up to now the opening date for SIL was March 11, but latest news say it is March 4. Good news, don't you think?!

Renata, do you have a video tape of the interview with CF ? (Thanks for the eMail, Evelyn !) Do you know if there is a permiere in germany ?? And will CF be there ?? If there is a permiere of SIL in germany I will try to get there and make some photos ! (I think I have to buy a scanner then ;-) ) Sabine

Where on Murph's Corner are the new pictures from In Style and Premiere...all I can find is the SIL pics.?

I too am unable to find it, sorry for following you around Evelyn.I can't remember who posted the bit of news Evelyn, was it Karen. Good night.

(Bethan) Well, I'm not one to gossip, but, Martin said that his cod piece was bigger than Ben's cod piece, which he referred to as a "perky little thing". :-) I think men take umbrage at this sort of thing (though spoken in jest, of course)!!! Thank goodness Earls don't wear cod pieces..it sounds as though there was some locker room rivalry going on! I recall reading about a similar competition between Crispin Bonham Carter and CF ..... they say it was only the stuffing shirt, but do you believe everything that's written? Wish I could also recall *where* I read it. ;-) Anyone here with a better memory? Sabine: Up to now the opening date for SIL was March 11, but latest news say it is March 4. Good news, don't you think?!

"...And what's Crispin really like beneath the breeches? For a start, he wasn't wearing any underwear on TV. During the double wedding scene, parts of his anatomy needed rearranging to make them less prominent. "Colin (Firth who plays Darcy) got awfully jealous, actually," he says.[...]"There was quite a lot of thigh acting. Those trousers really accentuate the thighs. Instead of underpants, you make a kind of nappy [=U.S. diaper] with your shirt tail." (From "Profile: Crispin Bonham Carter", Daily Express This Week Magazine, 9th March 1996)

Didn't post that one a second time! Away with you, Count All-mushy! I am just beginning to wonder if it has something to do with Netscape, that it keeps messages in the cache if you don't close the program in the meantime? Ben, you had repeated messages recently, too. Which browser do you use? Sabine, have no SIL interview tape yet, and don't know when I get it. And when I get it, I cannot copy it because it will be NTSC. Don't know anything about a German Premiere, and, frankly, wouldn't expect it anyway. I'd rather hope for a festival - the Berlinale, f.e., but don't know if it is the right time for the opening of SIL. Can check tomorrow when the Berlinale will be. MLSF or SLOW sounds much more like Berlinale entries. It is possible that GP's name has some recognition here, and perhaps Geoffrey Rush and Judy Dench, too, but I don't think more than a handful of people - and I have corresponded with most of them :-) - know CF by name. They hid P&P in the Easter afternoon program when it was aired first, and the second airing was on Tuesday mornings at 9.03 a.m.. Please! The ZDF does not know what a gem they have! On the other hand, the last time they broadcasted Playmaker, they recommended it warmly as a suspenseful erot c thriller! But I am confident that SIL will be very successful here in Germany, same as TEP. It has apparently just the right mixture of romance, humour and culture/ambition to get all those into the theaters who go to the movies once a year only. I am already looking forward to it. They will say: "I have been to such a phantastic funny movie! You must go see Shakespeare in Love!" And when they ask me why I smile so secretly (like Seer�uber Jenny, or Ethel, the pirate's daughter ;-) ), I say: "That's the movie I told you about 3 months ago...you know, the one where Hillary Clinton attended the NY premiere." Hah! :-))

Renate...Sabine.... I will send you my NTSC this week...keepsies. Enjoy!

Would someone please post again the network on which CF will appear (in snippets of Tumbledown, I believe). It is Jan 21st as I recall, but cannot find anything in my TV schedule which resembles anything having to do with the Falklands War unless it is "Decisive Weapons" on The History Channel. Please?! Mahalo!

Yes, Marcia it is "Decisive Weapons, the Bayonet" on the History Channel (I printed out Karen's message.) (Bethan) "but Mr Darcy is played by the not-so-handsome Colin Firth, who just stands around looking like a yeoman farmer" Eeeeyouch! That's the first time I've ever read that quote. Good God, not so handsome? Yeoman farmer? Does this writer not have eyes? I feel as if I've been punched in the stomach :-). BTW, the LA Times published its 1999 sneak previews issue today where they write up a blurb on all the movies to be released. FP was listed as a Spring release, which is the first time I've seen it listed in print. Kind of comforting, actually. MLSF was listed for a summer release which I would also find comforting had it not been listed in last year's sneaks episode as a 1998 summer release!

(Evelyn)Where on Murph's Corner are the new pictures from In Style and Premiere...all I can find is the SIL pics.? I think you will find them if you go to the roles page and click on the premier pictures towards the top. (Bethan) "but Mr Darcy is played by the not-so-handsome Colin Firth, who just stands around looking like a yeoman farmer" Bethan, wasn't that A.N.Wilson's comment. I didn't read the original but he was quoted by somebody subsequently as one of the only anti voices and apparently he changed his mind as the series progressed. (Some source I am, I can never remember the details!)

I thought UK fans might be interested to know that the Big Breakfast Channel 4 will be reporting on the SIL Premiere on Wednesday morning, with interviews! (CF?)

That was some bum steer we got from Bravo (via RoP) about the 'Making of SiL' interview airing yesterday at 3:45. I had the VCR going and viewed the tape this morning--nothing. Rats! And my football team lost yesterday, making the day a wipeout. :-( Oh, well.

Big Breakfast Channel 4 will be reporting on the SIL Premiere on Wednesday morning, with interviews! (CF?) I shall set my video (VCR).

Thank you Allison. Let's hope they interview CF at the Premiere. **** Someone sent me the URL of Murph's pics of In Style and Premiere magazine. http://members.tripod.com/i_love_movies/sil/silpremx.html **** Sorry about yesterday's No Show of the SIL premiere on BRAVO. Someone posted the info on RoP Virtual Views.I should have confirmed with BRAVO: I know better than post someone else's info. AAA (Apologies All Around) An acronym I coined since I use it so much!! **** Great aft at the CF Chat Room yesterday....5 or 6 droolies....including Sha Xiao from China. Said she had seen P&P many times. We asked her if she saw it on Chinese TV or on a video...but I don't think she comprehended our question. Sunday afternoon about 4 or 5PM US CT 10/11pmUK GT seems to be pretty good. Did Nan ever set a time for us to meet?

Please let me know waht time we are all going to meet to chat. I missed it last time. I live in Central Standard TIme. Not so handsome.... who on earth would say that........someone who does not know the different between handsome and okay. Ann: I want to some to London also. Maybe this summer

I'm so excited I can't contain myself, was having trouble logging on to drool but everything is okay again. You will never believe it but we have got tickets for the Premiere, talk about last minute, just hope that wern't returned CF tickets, front row, hope its not too close but who cares. Sorry I have not been in touch Rita, been very busy and I am so thrilled to be ducky enough to get tickets, it is a bit more dignified that just standing outside. Will report back.

Ann, you go, girl! Hope you have a very firthfilling time! I'm looking forward to your report. Evelyn, we knew it wasn't your info; no need for AAA's. I don't think we ever nailed down a good chat time. For me, weekdays are better, but I think I'm in the minority. I'll go along with whatever is decided.

(AnnW)You will never believe it but we have got tickets for the Premiere I shall look out for you on the Big Breakfast!

(AnnW)You will never believe it but we have got tickets for the Premiere The power of positive thinking! Go to it! Maybe 1999 is going to be a good year! I'm pleased that the release dates of FP and MLSF are becoming more official...hey, that's three movie releases in the US in 6 months! That's what I call momentum! I'm hopeful we'll get MLSF in June/July as well. I've noticed that a lot of "British" movies (Hideous Kinky, Jackie and whoever) seem to have more or less simultaneous openings in the US and Europe. Allison, you're right....it was A.N.Wilson....tut! I'm getting my quotes all muddled. But I can recall a couple of sideswipes at CF that were definitely the Sunday Telegraph!! May it boil in oil!

re the Release dates in the LA Times, I hope I have not mislead anyone, I definitely read that FP was to be released on 26th February, but that would be winter 1999 not Spring1999.

Ann, Congrats on your obtaining SIL premiere tickets. A definite dream-come-true! I hope your courage will rise in the attempts CF intimidation and you will speak to the object of all our affection. I know if I ever had the good fortune to meet him,I would be absolutely tongue-tied or I would make a blubbering fool of myself and hate myseld the morning after. When exactly is this premiere? I will be looking for your report and remember, no detail is to small for us to know.

Congratulations, Ann, on getting tickets to the premiere. Have fun and take lots of pictures. Remember, Livia hangs out in the ladies. ;-) (Bethan) I've noticed that a lot of "British" movies (Hideous Kinky, Jackie and whoever) seem to have more or less simultaneous openings in the US and Europe. I've seen the trailer for Hideous Kinky several times and it looks really bad. Also noticed it received govt funding. Shame.

I just hope I haven't got Colin's returned tickets, and Sue the Premiere is tomorrow evening in London, The European Charity Gala Premiere, I feel very very lucky but I really hope you won't expect too much of me I'm afraid there is absolutely no chance I will speak to him but my eyes will be glued to every detail.

Ann, the Firth is with you!!! We know you can do it, don't forget the flash. I was unable to check Bravo at the appointed time (husband watching Italian football league), but I turned Bravo on around 4:30pm and caught the end of the SIL program Colin clip and all! Let's hope they show it again, I did not make it in time to record it. Ugh!

Hideous Kinky.......Also noticed it received govt funding Of the �60million invested in Brit funded films, �2million has been recouped so far. Ouch! (Although there are several films yet to be released) I hope SLOW bucks the trend...I was heartened to hear that it got a good reception in Martha's Vineyard! Isn't that rather upmarket though?

the Sunday Telegraph!! May it boil in oil! I know, but we have tried every other sunday paper and it is the one we come back to! So UK firthfans - which channels are you going to be covering on wednesday morning?

Which should be covered? Let's see the schedule and fix the duty rota.

Re: BRAVO....I have been informed thatthey were running late..but they DID show SIL at 4PM. If you saw the end at 4:30, Moon...they must have shown the long version. Rats....I'll call them again and see if I can nail them down. With these fillers, it's a little "loosey-goosey" on BRAVO....If a film runs short ...they throw one in....the fillers are never on the schedule. ****** We're with you in spirit...Ann ,ole buddie...nothing like a London Premiere.... the floodlights in the sky at Leicester Sq....the Red Carpet.... You'll tell your grandchildren about it.Esp. with this film which will turn out to be a timeless classic.Relish every minute.!!

FIRTHETTES IN GERMANY....From today's VARIETY: BERLIN � Oscar dark horse �Shakespeare in Love� will vie for a Golden Bear in competition at the Berlin Intl. Film Fest running Feb. 10-21, distrib UIP confirmed. Miramax�s Gwyneth Paltrow starrer will now screen Feb. 14. Insiders said the fest wanted the pic as its opening night film, but was pushed back because �Shakespeare� stars had filming conflicts on Feb. 10. Director John Madden is expected to attend.

(Moon)...but I turned Bravo on around 4:30pm and caught the end of the SIL program Colin clip and all! (Evelyn)Re: BRAVO....I have been informed thatthey were running late..but they DID show SIL at 4PM. If you saw the end at 4:30, Moon...they must have shown the long version. I tuned in to turn the tape off at about 4:05 and the scheduled movie was still showing. My guess is they aired the short version but closer to 4:30 as Moon noted. Curses! Just missed it! Your inquiries of Bravo are appreciated. Entertainment Tonight will be covering SiL's London premiere. Footage should air tonight. I suppose there's an outside possiblity of seeing Colin (if he should happen to walk by as they're grilling Ben or Gwyneth about their split). But you never know! Regardless, we'll have our insider there (Ann).

Thanks Eileen...for the ET info. Wow, if they get the footage tonight...nice goin'. They are flying Gwyneth over on the Concorde just for the day!! AnnW. says she will be in CF Chat Room tomorrow....now..get these times. 9PM UK time(Greenwich Time) 4PM Eastern, US 3PM Central 2PM Mountain 1PM Pacific

(Evelyn) chat tomorrow 4PM Eastern, US Drat! I'll be at school. Well, I'll catch you guys later in the week, I hope.

Does anyone know how find and post back issues of newspapers?? Specifically the Jan 11 issue of USA Today, pp 4D and 5D have two MARVELOUS articles on SiL; one on the historical verity of the various characters (Wessex included), and the other on all the Shakespearean "in-jokes" contained in the movie. A friend sent me a clipping of it. Can anybody retrieve??

FIRTHETTES IN GERMANY....From today's VARIETY: BERLIN � Oscar dark horse �Shakespeare in Love� will vie for a Golden Bear in competition at the Berlin Intl. Film Fest running Feb. 10-21, distrib UIP confirmed. Thanks a lot, Evelyn! Don't think I will be able to travel to Berlin myself, but someone from the Frankfurt Firth Flock will, so we'll get first hand reports. Speaking of which: I'm all anticipation what Ann will have to report.

WHOOOPEEEE!! I have just been informed that Yahoo UK reports that HE WAS THERE!!

Found it her it is...Yahoo, UK, Entertainment Tuesday January 19, 9:42 PM Paltrow Shines As Shakespeare Stars Arrive At Gala Hollywood's Gwyneth Paltrow wore a Ralph Lauren outfit and her British co-star Joseph Fiennes chose more humble togs to attend the premiere of the hottest new film comedy Shakespeare In Love. Paltrow may have been the main draw for what is already being called the film of the year, but she headed a distinguished British cast. Fiennes was joined by Colin Firth, Simon Callow, Tom Wilkinson, Martin Clunes, Mark Williams and Imelda Staunton at the charity gala at the Empire Leicester Square in London.

Evelyn, did you think he would not be there? I admit this is the one time that thought did not cross my mind. I am hoping to hear a full report from Ann in locuo and hopefully Bethan, Arami and Allison will have some news from the media as well.

(Moon)Re: HE WAS THERE Evelyn, did you think he would not be there? Enthusiastic declaration.....did not anticipate a "no show" .

Hi Everybody, It is late and we have just got in but I just had to put a few thoughts down before I went to bed. Firstly we had a wonderful time, but I am afraid I didn't get an autograph or a chat as Dame Winter did, unfortunately we were ushered to our seats but not before I saw Colin, and the first thing that struck me about him was how different he looked from the US Premieres, he has lost wieght, he looks younger and his hair is darker and styled differently, do you think it is a new image for a ne part!!! Bob Hoskins introduced the Gala on behalf of the Chicken Shed and Harvey Weinstein was there Evelyn. The best thing of all was that John Madden introduced all the actors present at the Premiere and they all came down to the front of the cinema, and there I am sitting in the front row, six feet away from you know who and I couldn't get over how young and boyish he looked. We have taken photos but I am not sure the flash was working properly, we will have to wait and see. We thought he and Mart n Clunes got the loudest clap!! am I biased. I was just going to put my thoughts down on about the film on this topic but just realised it should be on 115. One other thing there were masses and masses of cameras there and I noticed that the Gala was sponsored by Sky Movies so if any one in the UK has Sky I am sure they will have a report. An unforgetable evening but now it seems so unreal.

Dear Ann, I am so happy for you. Been waiting 'til late to check 'cause I knew you'd tell us first thing. I'll hop on over to 115 but please tell us: Shat was he wearing? Did you see Livia? What was she wearing? Was he smiling? nervous? when he had to go to the front? Any acknowledgment from him for the applause he got? So he looked a bit different than what you expected? Are you willing to say better? It's late so I'll look for you tomorrow. You're the only person I know of who went so any tidbit you give us will be a feast. Pictures would be the hot fudge sundae, of course.

Hi All: Murph here -- a long time/part time lurker, and an old (in more ways than one) FOFer. I just wanted to thank Ann for the info on the London premiere. Thinner? Darker hair? Different styling? I wonder if it is for a new part or Livia's doing. Can't wait to see the pictures. Murph

Hi all... finally got my network connection fixed. Please don't think I've just been lurking and unresponsive-- I've just had trouble posting things. (Moon-- if you check out VV over in Pemberley, I haven't responded yet to the further disc. of TTRL) ANN!!! Way too cool! I'll hop over to 115 soon to read more about your adventures! I'm so impressed by how close you got. So what about the new haristyle? Was it a little more styled or still moppish? We have taken photos but I am not sure the flash was working properly, Oh, I can identify too well. Keeping my fingers crossed for you!

Ann: You lucky girl. I am so thrilled that you got to go. Please, details, details,details...... Can't wait to see the pixs. You are truly a lucky girl.....

Yea Ann!!! So glad you got to see him up close and personal. I was worried that your front row seats might make it hard for you to enjoy the film, but it turns out you had the best seat in the house :-). Nice to see you here, Murph!

Up early to get the News programmes and the same story contines, everyone was interviewed or shown arriving expect Colin, hope someone is getting something, my best bet would be SKY but he definitely did a couple of interviews.Can't remember what GP was wearing except that it was white/cream and long, I was just so amazed as to how different Colin looked to what he looked in the A&E interview. He seemed pleased with his reception and seemed to be enjoying himself very relaxed, and was introduced just bef ore GP & JF,BTW he is taller than JF. Didn't see Livia much she was sitting towards the back of the cinema and came in after we sat down and left while the credits were going up. I do hope we get some pictures because I really thought he looked great. Allison I hope you get some coverage of Colin. I t ought he looked a bit tired in the A&E interview but here he looked full of beans!! Oh for some news.!!

Allison will have some news from the media as well. Well as I write I still have the video rolling on Channel 3 but I can report a short report on BBC1, interview with GP and short clip showing CF dancing but no mention. Big Breakfast, typically interviews with Imelda Staunton, Bob Hoskins, GP, is it Mark Williams (soap star??) Martin Clunes (he seems to be the UK answer to Ben Afflick as far as publicity is concerned and he is still going on about their codpieces!) and then Tom Wilkinson. Was just beginning to despair when I saw over TW's shoulder a wonderul smiling figure obviously being introduced to somebody. It was his loveliness himself. Must go and watch it another 20 times. Will try not to wear out the tape! Ooo Ann I am so glad you got a ring side seat. Lucky you. Shall now go over to 115 and read the details.

Aha! I told you Ann, 1999 is going to be a good year! Sitting six feet away from you-know-who in the front row. Couldn't be better. Well done! We have Sky, but I have to dash to work! Will watch this evening (too late?)

Aha! I told you Ann, 1999 is going to be a good year! Sitting six feet away from you-know-who in the front row. Couldn't be better. Well done! We have Sky, but I have to dash to work! Will watch this evening (too late?)

Allison, I can't believe it I am recording Channel 4, trying to cover both ITV and BBC, only one video and missed the BBC report, did I miss Colin and trying to post as well. Did you say you are recording BBC?

. Did you say you are recording BBC? No I didn't record BBC1 but I watched it. The mornign program there is very news based not a magazine format so it appered from what I saw that the premier was a news item with a sound bite from GP and a clip of JD with v small sight of our DB bowing and a scene I think of CF and JF dancing with GP. It was also on News at Ten last night which also had clips of CF. I did not record it, I am afraid. Ann, how are you feeling this morning. I cannot imagine how you must feel being so close to him. I feel excited just having seen a view of him on television, behind Tom Wilkinson's left ear! (Bethan)! We have Sky, but I have to dash to work! Will watch this evening (too late?) Isn't Barry Norman's show now on Sky? Just maybe, we might get an interview between BN and CF?

I can't believe it, three morning news programmes and he was not mentioned or interviewed on any. Thanks to Allison I caught of glimpse of him behind TW, on The Big Breakfast, but it you blinked you would miss him, however, I think Allison will agree with me that he looked very good and very relaxed.Why can't I be a fan of someone who gets more media attention it is so frustrating I so wanted everyone to see pictures of him to see if you agree with me how different he looks from the A&E interview. Al ison I don't usually buy Hello or OK magazines but I think it will be a must this week also can anyone get today's Evening Standard, I'm sjure they will have a report but it will probably all be about GP & BA splitting up. Sorry to sound so downbeat after last night must be tired.

I shouldn't be posting here. I am trying to prepare for an important meeting but can't resist, it is much more interesting than budget forecasts! I shall definitely buy the Evening Standard. I shall also buy the Friday edition for a few weeks to come because I have noticed that the magazine which will almost certainly have pictures, is usually works several weeks in arrears! Ann, I thought he looked wonderful and I liked the way he looked so pleasant and friendly as he was being introduced. I kept thinking that he looked the sort of person who would be really nice to know. I have to confess that having read some of his past interviews, I haven't been to impressed by what appear to have been attempts to claim street cred and had previously thought that I would go a long way not to meet him to avoid disappointment. But recently I think he has changed. I think he was probab y a rather well brought up middle class boy who, working in a very liberal industry , had assumed this bohemian attitude which doesn't quite fit him. Or maybe that is just wishful thinking! There doesn't seem to be much of the bohemian about Livia! I wonder if his parents are pleased that he has settled down at last! The Now interview implied that. Having read that - don't I sound OLD. Like Bethan, I am beginning to feel like a mother hen.

Hi there! I've scanned the quality press (at work) and there's a photo of GP in the Telegraph, otherwise no coverage. But I note that in Allison's paper (!) the Mail, there's a front page pic of GP and a five star review. (With yet again, no mention of CF, other than as playing the "Duke" of Wessex!)

Oooohhh, Ann, how did you manage not to slide out of your seat? What a moment! And kudos to Allison, Bethan and Ann for covering all the talk shows. I thought that was rather well coordinated! I share your disappointment at the lack of Colin coverage but by now I'm getting rather resigned to it. Perhaps the interviews will continue as the movie plays and becomes popular. Entertainment Tonight did cover the premiere, but as I expected it was focused on GP. They re-ran clips from BA's interview over the weekend re: their split. Great PR for the movie, though. Momentum is building. The GG's are to be held this Sunday. I'm intrigued by the fact that Colin looks so different, Ann. Darker hair, lost weight (and he was just starting to look healthy again, compared to a few years ago when he did ATA). Hmmmm.... looking forward to further discussion when we get together for the chat later today!

Ann, Did your pulse start racing, heartrate accelerate, get warm and sweaty-all signs of Firthitis (coming into close vicinity with the man himself). You lucky gal! Thanks for the report. It sounds like a wonderful time was had by all. I can't believe Britain doesn't support it's own stars a little more. I can understand why he didn't get a lot of press here, but you would think in the country where is a name, he would be mentioned more.

Bravissima Ann! I too am so curious to see the pictures. Was his hair longer, those wonderful curls showing? I do prefer him with darker hair. Heide had lots of good questions. Welcome Murph, so nice to have you post, it makes it all so firthfilling. I will try to be at Chat this afternoon. Now, I'm off to check the SIL post.

Moon, his hair is shorter and as I say he looked so boyish, and so much younger, and really too thin again. Whatever he is doing I wish he would tell me, I could do with losing a few pounds and looking younger!! I have been out shopping this morning and scoured the newstands, the best picture of Colin & livia is in The Sun! with short write up, also a picture in The Evening Standard but they left Colin's name of the distinguished british cast again, He certainly is Mr. Invisible Bethan,so the Sun gets my vote. I would have loved for you all to have seen him, he looked absolutelty gorgeous and happy, I have never seen him smile soo much and he was in a suit, I think Livia is a good influence on him.

Oooh! Thanks for the above Ann! Makes very good reading, and more than makes amends for the oversights in the press.. although the Sun has the largest readership in the country....more than all the broadsheets put together! I'm beginning to wonder if Colin actually looks "older" and heavier on screen. I've seen several comments to the effect that he looks younger, more boyish, slimmer etc in the flesh. I've never heard anyone say "Hey, I met Colin Firth and boy, was he fat!" And he can't be yo-yo-ing up and down all the time. Doesn't the screen add several pounds to normal weight? And of course, we rarely see him smile on screen! BTW, if he's had a hair re-style, maybe he's being groomed for a new film role! He doesn't seem to be unduly concerned about his appearance otherwise, so maybe this is a sign. Did he look like Mark Darcy, Ann? :-)

Bethan, Iagree that being on television and on film can put on pounds, but he looks quite skinny now, whereas on the A& E video he(i hate to say it) tended to look a bit chubby around the neck and cheeks and it does show up a bit in the film but then it does make him look broad and strong which isright for thepart. As to Mark Darcy, no I think he looks too young, Mark Darcy would be what 40ish and Colin I think looks about 30 and I also imagined Mark Darcy would be quite stocky, stocky would be better fo Colin too if he wants a part in Mary Queen of Scots, don't you think Bethan. If we don't get some news soon will some brave person please ring his Agent I keep hearing of lesser actors having two or three films lined up.

I forgot to mention that there is a picture and short article in the main section of today Times, and this time they have mentioned him.

I went out and bought the Evening Standard. No mention and no picture. Has he become a non person in such a short space of time? Famous for 5 minutes and all that. The press has such a short memory span. Ann, did you buy a copy of the Sun? What was Livia wearing? Details for the starving...Please.

Bethan, will you please still check Sky news when you get home, they may still be running th story, he must have done an interview for somebody.I really must get on with some work!

Well the unbelieveable Allison, I only bought it lunchtime, News Extra edition and it has a special supplement "25 reason why you should see this film" and Colin is listed No. 5 reason "This may be the first ever film in which Colin Firth does not score",don't quite no what they mean as he didn't "score" in TEP but I expect it is a clever remark to do with FP. I would be pleased to send it to you if you like.

Well girls....aren't you proud of our Ann!!! And nothing like a good report to bring 24 postings this morning! Murph....we are VERY glad to have you with us....you belong to spring and we need you. Bring Mari along next time. See everyone at Chat this aft.in US (UK 9pm). (Moon, I'm working on BRAVO to repeat SIL...stay tuned)

(AnnW)the best picture of Colin & livia is in The Sun! with short write up Is this the edition you bought?

Ann, thanks for the thrilling report! I'm reading it (and the followup comments) here at work with a huge grin on my face, and my coworkers are all thinking I've gone mad! (If they only knew.) What luck to be in the front row -- I would have melted into a puddle. I for one think the style change is definitely indicative of a new role (quick, someone give me some wood to knock on!)

I can't believe Britain doesn't support it's own stars a little more. (Sue) Actually, the coverage of SIL is rather good for a non-royal personage attended premiere. I don't recall many (any?) premieres being covered by News at Ten. And although I don't like the Sun newspaper, 4 million people do! Mark Darcy would be what 40ish and Colin I think looks about 30 (Ann) I think Mark Darcy would be 38 and very slim!:-) "About 30"...Wow! Way to go, Colin! Any more details of his reception by the audience, Ann? Much applause? Did he smile a lot? Look pleased? Hope Harvey noticed that he was popular! Who cares about the press!!

I can't believe Britain doesn't support it's own stars a little more. (Sue) Actually they were! Simon Callow, Tom Wilkinson, Martin Clunes, some soap star I have never heard of but everybody else has, GP whom the press regard as honorary British (though she was very rude about "bubble and squeak" which proves she cannot be not really British). The problem is that CF is yesterday's news!! But according to Ann, he seems very happy about it so perhaps as he says, he doesn't give a sh*t about fame, or he has another juicy job lined up and can afford to smile.

Firstly Allison, I thought you might be interested to know that if you go to this page www.thisislondon.co.uk and scroll down you will be able to read the article I told you about in The Evening Standard, no pictures of Colin & Livie and they have left him out off the cast list but you may find it interesting also the" 25 reasons why you should not miss this film "or something like that and yes that was the editon of the Sun I bought lunchtime Bizarre page "No fiennery for Bard Joe" And under Colin & Livi 's photo is the caption "Firth Night" and under Martin Clunes photo "Behaving Bardly" Clever or wot. I will send both pictures to Karen to see if she can do anything with them. Also I am afraid that the photos we took weren't brilliant but there is one with the whole cast standing at the front of the cinema that it quite good of Colin so I will send that also. Sorry we didn't have much success but it realy was bedlam in the foyer and I really think we shouldn't have taken one photo inside the cinema let a one 4 or 5. Bethan have you had time to check Sky News, I do wish you could see him being interviewed, he look great ,suit and tie and his hair much shorter. He smiled a lot and seemed very happy and relaxed and was grinning the whole time he stood at the front of the cinema. Everyone seemed very happy as well they should especially Harvey W. BTW I think someone asked me where they went for the after show party, well according to the Evening Standard" 500 guests were taken by coach to the imposing Merchant Taylor's livery hall in the City, parts of which date back well before Shakespears's time. In great rooms and corridors awash with tulips and roses, juggle s, fire-easters and street players in Elizabethan costumes entertained guests as they supped chanpagne and demolished, salmon, venison, suckling pig and syllabubs." Very nice.If I think of anything else I will post right away.

If I think of anything else I will post it right away.Oh I thought he voice sounded wonderful on screen, should that be on 115. (that sounds a bit daft sounded wonderful on screen but you know what I mean)

Oh, Ann, have read all your write-ups and look forward to being on Chat a little later on. Will be scouring the local news stands for the Sun and the rest that had pics! Glad to hear that Colin looked fit and trim and, as-ever, boyishly handsome! I do hope that the change in hairstyles does signify a *new* role!! What did it look like to you? Is Mark Darcy possible? Or did he look like a spy-type for that Marked Man project? We are all eyes and ears!! Allison, have received your package. Thank you. I have the February SHE article all typed up and will upload later today. I will also scan in the pictures separately. Am not that talented to be able to incorporate images in the text yet. Am at the baby step stage... (KJArt) Does anyone know how find and post back issues of newspapers?? Specifically the Jan 11 issue of USA Today, pp 4D and 5D have two MARVELOUS articles on SiL; one on the historical verity of the various characters (Wessex included), and the other on all the Shakespearean "in-jokes" contained in the movie. A friend sent me a clipping of it. Can anybody retrieve?? Try this: For "Finding the Laughs Between the Lines" Jan 10, 1999 http://www.usatoday.com/life/enter/movies/lfilm487.htm Unfortunately, the other articles I printed don't have the location on the header. Some idiot must have changed the specs on me!! Will keep looking, but I do have hard copy if you want it. (Let me know) Welcome, Murph! Do not go gentle into that deep, dark lurkdom....at least not while we are all a-Firthfrenzied!! ;-D

I hope I haven't mislead everyong, when I say he has had a change of hairstyle, what I mean is it is now much darker, and whereas it was falling over his face at the LA Premiere it is now much shorter and straighter at the front and oh I do hope it is it for some forthcoming role Darcy, Marked Man anything or else we are going to run out of films to discuss and go and see. Talking of forthcoming, in the Programme where they do a little bit on the actors under Colins list of films is says ..."and the fort coming Miramax film MLSF," so it must definitely be forthcoming. (I do not have the programme at the moment, but it is something like that. It is a lovely large shiny programme with lots of information.

The problem is that CF is yesterday's news!! (Allison) Oh, you're beginning to sound like me, Allison! Or me, as my former self! Before I was reborn. :-) My 1999 self is super-optimistic and quite positive that this will be a good year for CF! Don't forget that She magazine only recently nominated him as sexiest man (over thirty, but still...!) :-) Hey, Ann, he wore a TIE!!?? He's really smartening up, or maybe Livia has taken him to task and chucked out his old wardrobe! Glad to hear that MLSF is being promoted. David(Lord) Puttnam features very strongly in the media these days, and his name alone will guarantee that in the UK, certainly, MLSF will garner respectful coverage. Re. CF's consistent omission from the cast list, when people like Simon Callow are mentioned. There's normally a brief studio handout which is circulated to the press for information when premieres are held etc. Perhaps CF's name was accidently omitted and the omission was then repeated. I've not seen anything on Sky News, but popular demand in our household is for CNN (the State of the Nation address!), so I may have missed it. We don't subscribe to Sky movies , I'm afraid, so no Barry Norman either! Clutching at straws, but the change of hairstyle does sound promising..it's fallen over his face for years, why change now? Hmmm? :-)

I missed the chat, but have a picture from the Evening Standard thanks to FOFer Martine at this URL: http://members.tripod.com/~i_love_movies/sil/silpremx.html Also, I have that USA article at Murph's Corner. It is fun! Thanks for your welcome. I will stop by more often. Murph

Murph, we're at Chat *now*,go there!

25 reasons why you shouldn't miss it Shakespeare In Love Joseph Fiennes, Gwyneth Paltrow, Geoffrey Rush, Judi Dench. Dir: John Madden. by Pete Clark 1. Kenneth Branagh has had nothing whatsoever to do with this film, Shakespeare in Love. 2. Gwyneth Paltrow and her real-life boyfriend allegedly split up because he took exception to the sizzling nature of her love scenes with Joseph Fiennes. This is your chance to judge the validity of his case. 3. This the first chance to see an actor from the Fast Show (Mark Williams) tackle a part of profundity. 4. The screenplay, written by Tom Stoppard, allows those of us who studied Shakespeare and the generation of bloodthirsty Jacobeans who came after to quietly congratulate ourselves on spotting literary in-jokes. 5. This may be the first film ever in which Colin Firth does not score. 6. An opportunity to pay public homage to director John Madden, the only man to have successfully curbed the over-exuberant actorly tendencies of both Antony Sher and Simon Callow. 7. A once-in-a-lifetime chance to see Martin Clunes as a man behaving well. 8. As it takes two to tango, Joseph Fiennes also takes his clothes off in the love scenes with Gwyneth Paltrow. No girlfriend has as yet walked out on him so perhaps he does not have one. Your chance to audition imaginatively for that role! 9. "Spot the deliberate anachronisms" in Shakespeare in Love is sure to become London's favourite dinner-party game. 10. Marvel at the versatility of Geoffrey Rush as he forsakes the piano to play percussion with his dentures. 11. See Judi Dench as a spiky, blisteringly intelligent Elizabeth I, coming on like M in a ruff and whiteface. 12. See Gwyneth Paltrow don moustache and beard in a doomed attempt to play a man in a society in which no women were allowed on stage. 13. Marvel at the uproar when her deception is unmasked, and reflect on the fact that this precipitated a social revolution, eventually allowing Nicole Kidman to take the London stage without fear of censure. 14. Wonder at the stiffness of the magnificent collars worn by the cast at a time when dry cleaning and the steam iron had yet to be invented. 15. This film centres around an object lesson in the importance of titles. As Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate's Daughter, the featured entertainment was going nowhere. Then the name was changed to Romeo and Juliet and the rest is history. 16. Shakespeare has recently been voted British Personality of the Millennium by Radio 4 listeners. Do you agree with the verdict of the pointy-heads? 17. It is impossible to resist any film which has a running dog gag. 18. It is equally impossible to resist any film which explores the origins of the humourous tendencies of London cabbies. 19. The second most famous playwright in the film does not appear on the credits, nor does the name of the flamboyant actor who plays him. Who are they? 20. Shakespeare in Love is a girls' movie, for boys. 21. See Hugh Fennyman (Tom Wilkinson) addressing his assembled cast of actors: "Now listen to me, you dregs," showing that attitudes towards thespians have evolved over the past 500 years not a jot. 22. The movie contains a great cigarette joke: "I fancy tobacco has a future." This is said by the villainous Lord Wessex, which gives it a slightly sinister ring. 23. The film is worth seeing just for the bloodthirsty, animal-torturing boy John Webster, who, when asked his opinion of Romeo and Juliet, replies tersely: "Plenty of blood." Webster grew up to be a leading playwright of the Jacobean era, who were to drama what Hammer Horror was to cinema. 24. Nod sagely at the refrain "It's a mystery," usually said by Philip Henslowe (Geoffrey Rush), which is used in the context of debt and money but has an underlying meaning about the alchemy of acting and writing. Very smart. 25. Finally, we must all see the film in order to support Gwyneth Paltrow's campaign to become a naturalised Englishwoman.

Click on this for the February 1999 She article that Allison so kindly sent to me. I will get the pictures on within the next couple of days. Sorry. http://www.spring.net/~KarenR/articles/SHE0299.HTM

(Allison), GP whom the press regard as honorary British (though she was very rude about "bubble and squeak" which proves she cannot be not really British). Please explain b&s. Murph, in that picture Livia looks like she could be pregnant. She always wears pants now, maybe her skirts no longer fit. Colin looks fab! A four button suit, very chic. I look forward to seeing all the pictures, thanks Ann and thank you Karen for posting them.

Wow! Cool jacket. Livia must be having an influence but what's with that tie? Gotta check it out again. Thanks, Mary. Not too sure about Livia's outfit. Did you see more of it Ann? Moon, ever optimistic about the bambino but eventually you'll be right and be able to say, "See? I told you so." ;-) He does look very happy. I'm glad, Ann, you found him so charming. He certainly hasn't stepped wrong yet with all the lucky people who have seen him so far. Did I miss anything at Chat?

TV ALERT US Karen just called to report that E! News Daily covered the SIL Premiere and Colin's interview is featured. This will be re-aired probably tonight and tomorrow morning and at noon. Check out Access Hollywood for the Premiere coverage.

WOW! I've been gone 24 hours and the place has gone bananas! Ann - well done, gal. And welcome, Murph. What a great day in Drool, everybody. So, I wasted my time watching Big Breakfast - I guess it's good for laughs and for very young at heart. I suppose I should have felt better for it, but I really wanted to see Colin. Instead there was Martin Clunes, best known for a comedy series "Men Behavibg Badly", and habitually exploiting the crude laddish-clownish image at every opportunity. Here's what he said to the blushing girl reporter: MC: Did you notice I had the biggest codpiece in the film? R: Nno, I... MC: Oh, why do I bother! Yeah, I did! Ben Affleck... (shows the tip of his little finger) Chipolata! Past it!... [cut]

(Arami)WOW! I've been gone 24 hours and the place has gone bananas! Hmmm... Didn't notice with the place going bananas;)

Moon, re your bambino comments perhaps that why Colin had this silly grin all over his all evening,it wasn't anothing to do with an exciting brand new role!!

all over his face, of course. Sorry Heide didn't really see Liv ia but she is so beautiful she looks great in anything but I agree it doesn't look very flattering. Glad to hear you may be able to see him being interviewed, I knew there had to be an interview somewhere but why not on UK TV!!

(Arami)Past it!... I am fairly sure he said "pasty", as in Cornish pasty? And while we are on the subject of British food - Please explain b&s. Bubble and Squeak consists of cold mashed potato and other vegetables, (traditionally just cabbage), mashed together and fried into a sort of vegetable cake. I love it, particularly with lots of Worcestershire (spicy)sauce. Much eaten on the day after Christmas Day (Boxing Day) with cold turkey.

(Moon)Murph, in that picture Livia looks like she could be pregnant. She always wears pants now, maybe her skirts no longer fit. Like you Moon, I have been wondering about that picture. I am also surprised that it did not appear in the edition of the Evening Standard which I bought. The Standard first gets to the news stands around midday and there are about 3 editons. I bought the second. The pictures there were of JD, GP and Bob Geldorf! It occurs to me that the picture on Murph's site is from the first edition and was taken at the screening. Did Ann say that JD was not at the cinema? Then the second edition had photograp s from the after show party. I have a feeling that CF and Livia did not go to the party. That is why there is no mention of them in that context. Could that be because she was feeling tired??? Okay I have an overheated imagination and am too fond of deduction but I am the undisputed Cluedo champion in our family.

She doesn't look pregnant.

(Moon)Murph, in that picture Livia looks like she could be pregnant. She always wears pants now, maybe her skirts no longer fit. (Allison)Like you Moon, I have been wondering about that picture. Great minds think alike. That was my very first thought when I looked at the picture, before reading your posts. She looks fuller in the bosom, but it's hard to make a comparison to the other shots because they're not from the same angle. Well, this will give us something new to speculate about! ;-) I read that She article. I agree it's very similar to the Now article over at Dolores' site (hope the She pictures don't include that hideous purple suit) with all the recycled quotes. They didn't get some of the info correct, either--said he met Livia in '97 (wasn't it '95?). Gee, they should've checked with us! Hey, it was great fun chatting yesterday. Sorry you missed it, Heide. Maybe next time we can do it a little later for those of you in Mtn and Pacific time (if our European friends don't mind a late night). :-)

Sorry I missed you guys in the chat. SIck child again. Ann: COngrats I am so glad that you have had the time of your life. Thank you for letting all of us know how it went.

Thanks for the b&s explanation Allison, I will have to try it someday. Is there anything else worth knowing about that might make one truly British? It would be a shame if Colin really did not attend the post premiere party. Sometimes deals and casting ideas do come up and it is always v. useful to an actor to attend. Livia not feeling well is the only acceptable excuse. If he were cast as M. Darcy, I think we would know by now, no? I missed the E interview Evelyn, drats again!

Karen, have you actually seen the E interview and if so how do you think he looked and was his hair darker or was I imagining it, it was very dark inside the cinema.

I am fairly sure he said "pasty", as in Cornish pasty? Chipolata and pasty? What sort of diet is that? (Very SIL-ly...;-))

I wonder if his parents are pleased that he has settled down at last! The Now interview implied that. Having read that - don't I sound OLD. Like Bethan, I am beginning to feel like a mother hen. (Allison} Donning my mother hen hat and feathers, I'm sure his parents are delghted! Livia seems like ideal daughter-in-law material, and not a log cabin in sight! So, I wasted my time watching Big Breakfast (Arami) That's what I call real devotion! Martin Clunes....yawn, yawn. Why doesn't he give poor Ben Affleck a break?! I have a feeling that CF and Livia did not go to the party. (Allison) I'm sure they would go (or what would Harvey say?)! An instance (yet again!) of name omission, probably. Interesting snippet in the Times Diary (take with pinch of salt) referring to JD's and other cast members' dislike of GP's alleged diva treatment on set. Relations between the two were reported still to be cool at the post-premiere party. I'm trying to remember where (on the net) I saw a photo of John Madden, GP, CF and BA together. All looked very friendly. CF was between GP and BA, and had his arms round both of them. GP had a big grin on her face, BA looked serious. If he were cast as M. Darcy, I think we would know by now, no? (Moon) No, we wouldn't know! I've rung up Working Title twice and it's like getting information from the Pentagon. I think they'll be shooting in the summer and it sounds as though they won't release details of casting etc until just before the shoot.Anyway, no-one else has been cast as MD! I think this is a good project..Working Title produced Elizabeth, Bean, The Borrowers and Four Weddings, all major commercial successes.

Ann, I just finished watching the E News Daily piece and his hair did seem quite a bit darker. I like his hair shorter. I wish I could say the same for Livia's hair which I wish she would have kept longer. Maybe it's a new more maternal hairstyle if what some people suspect is true. Also that suit made him seem v. thin. How much weight could he actually have lost in a month? He's prob. just wearing better fitting clothes and just has a decent haircut.

Oh Sue, thankyou for confirming those facts to me I was beginning to imagine I had made it all up, I think it is for the better what did you think and how long was the interview and did he say anything interesting.

so many questions,Sue and I was there! Did you also think he looked younger?