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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Come back and hit the reload, Eileen!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lizza---I hope your mom is better soon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EmmaE, your Pictures are on their way!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

test

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

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

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

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

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

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