(Amy) They were squealing over the "passionate" part between Valmont and Cecile, too! Just curious, Amy. Did any of your students have a problem with this scene? Some people find it distasteful that such a young girl was lured into sex. Also, will your students be able to develop their own theses on this film or will you offer directives for their papers? (Sorry, if you discussed this before.) I wish they would create a way to make accent marks for French! You can have a ball with the Alt key on your keyboard. Just hold down and hit the keys on your number pad at the right like this: �(Alt 138); �(Alt 130); �(Alt 135); �(Alt 149); �(Alt 151) Looking forward to your MLSF report, Jana. They must have sent your copy by hot air balloon and it just made its landing last week during the Albuquerque festival. Thanks for the further info on Film 99. I'll be pleased to see Colin in all his sartorial splendor but the publicity machine has not cranked up in the US yet.

I didn't notice anyone who had a problem with the scene--the only negative comment I heard concerned it being "sick" that he was kissing C�cile (thanks for telling me about the accent marks!) where he was kissing her! The one student I expected to be offended didn't appear to be, so I guess I'm out of the woods on that. They have some freedom with their papers--I gave them the traditional setting, plot, and character analysis possibilities, with questions to answer for each one, or I said that if they had their own topics then they could discuss them with me. This is a freshman comp class, and they're not too keen on coming up with their own ideas about things! Do you happen to know how to make a circonflexe or a tr�ma?

Julie Andrews is supposed to be on the Rosie O'Donnell show on Monday.... maybe she will talk about RV????

Sir Richard Burton, explorer, adventurer, author of the x-rated translation of the The Arabian Nights. Charles Darnay/Sidney Carton, the tragic revolutionary roue The possibility of Sidney Carton was discussed last year, I seem to remember. The Firth is eminently suitable, I agree. Unfortunatey, the rumour then was that there was indeed a new film being made, but that Mel "Lethal Weapon" Gibson was taking the part. It's odd you should mention Burton - he is buried in the little churchyard overlooked by my house in London! Why did you think of him? I know there was a new biography last year, but (as is required of biographies these days) I read that it took a rather dim view of the man. Apparently he only pretended to love his wife, or something. Amy, I'm sure he'd much have preferred the flame-headed Irish girl to the insipid Ms Tilly. She is a right drip. However, the equivalent in my case is that Jennifer Ehle would have ditched Colin Firth on the spot if she'd only caught a glimpse of me....Now you see why I don't take this fan lark too seriously.

(Ben)I'm sure he'd much have preferred the flame-headed Irish girl to the insipid Ms Tilly. Gosh, I hope so! When I read that he has a child with Meg Tilly, and now he's married to the swarthy Livia, I thought all hope was gone.

I have just visited FirthFrenzy and there is a report there that Colin Firth is to star in a TV Series Flashman, and the report is from the Reader's Digest UK dated 8.29.1999. so there is a second report about Flashman, I am even more hopeful now, perhaps someopne will dare to ask the man himself.

Something happened to the AFirthionado main page. The tables / columns of the "interactive" section are messed up. I wonder what happened? If it's not Count Allmushy we have visitors from Arcturus on our domain. Karen, Marcia, on which board can I get Terry best?

I would love to see him play Vidal in The Devils Cub by Georgette Heyer. He would be so great. Isn't he always though.

Cymbaline.. a "sequal" to Apartment Zero? Tell me more.... Lynn...thanks for the Rosie O announcement...I'll make sure I watch/tape it!! (here's hoping JA sings Colin's praises...I would LOVE to see him on Rosie's show...she's already had Jennifer Ehle on, I think she would be a good personto interview ODB...!! Hey everyone, shall we start a letter writing campaign to the Rosie show?? (Colin, Colin, Colin!!!)? Too bad she's only on AOL, I got rid of AOL last year, WAY too much SPAM in my mailbox ALL the time! Guess we'd have to do snail amil or faxing...anybody willing to write/fax in? I'll get the fax #!!

New Flashman book was published in UK - Flashman and the Tiger. Will post review from The Times on #72. Thanks, Lynn, for info about Julie Andrews on Rosie's show. She will also be on the Today show on Monday morning. Appears to be pushing (excuse me, promoting) a book called "Little Bo: The Story of Bonnie Boadicea." Whatever that is? But she'll probably mention RV too. Another TV reminder - Sunday night Masterpice Theatre, first episode of the "Aristocrats," which has Jodhi May of TOTS in it too.

Flashman...thanks Karen for spotting this. I think the new Flashman has a three-short-stories in one type of format. There seems to be a lot of life left in old Flashy. And yes, Ann, a second report about the TV series does sound encouraging...dated about the same time as the TV Times news item, so there must have been some kind of leak (hopefully!) On roles I'd love to see CF play. Eliot in Rumer Godden's beautifuly poignant tale "The Greengage Summer". There was an "old" movie version of this starring Kenneth More. Time for a re-make! Thanks Ann for the further details about Miramax/Buena Vista and the MLSF release date in the UK. I now, sadly, accept that we will have to wait until May, provided the prints don't wear out! BTW trying to be positive, is the fact that Buena Vista are the distributors good news? They normally seem to distribute major releases, not small indies. What infuriates me is not the long wait (I'm learning patience) but the damage that this laissez-faire, "who is this guy?", "let's keep the movie on the shelf" attitude must be inflicting on Colin's career as a lead actor. Someone posted somewhere "Why is Hugh Grant a star and Colin Firth isn't?" Well the answer is that everything Hughie makes hits the screen everywhere, and quickly, with maximum publicity!!! And on the subject of HG, star power and bankability, yesterday's Telegraph reported that Robert de Nero's company had signed up Hughie to play the lead role of Will in Nick Hornby's "About a Boy". So there y'are, folks! Floppy hair power.

(Bethan) And on the subject of HG, star power and bankability, yesterday's Telegraph reported that Robert de Nero's company had signed up Hughie to play the lead role of Will in Nick Hornby's "About a Boy". Oh no! I'm not a Hugh-hater, but I loved this book and just don't see it as a Hugh Grant vehicle. Why is it always HG and not ODB? That's rhetorical - I know it's because HG puts butts in the seats. I just felt like lamenting.

Why is it always HG and not ODB? That's rhetorical - I know it's because HG puts butts in the seats. HG also promotes his movies. Am disgusted!

So am I... Just saw the trailer of Mickey Blue Eyes and hated it and him. Wonder if I'll even go see Notting Hill which is playing in portuguese theaters now:-(

(Gi) Just saw the trailer of Mickey Blue Eyes and hated it and him. I thought the trailer was hysterical..very misleading. The film was horrible, truly horrible. Notting Hill was much better IMO, not "great" mind you, but better. Dragged a bit.

Thanks for theinfo, I'll revert to my previous plans then: see NH and not MBE. :-)

Firthettes, Hugh has gone Hollywood which proves what was obvious from his divine little LA escapade of a few years ago, viz., he *is* just another pretty face. But that is why he fills the seats, and that is all Hollywood wants--exterior beauty and publicity seekers. If you've ever heard him interviewed, he seems to have very little behind that lovely mug. Plus he has his own production company and that very odd companion/manager Ms Hurley to nudge him along. Gems are valuable b/c they are rare. And the Hope Diamond of actors whose fortunes we are following has so far showed pretty commendable restraint and dedication to a)actual acting and b)getting through life without too many lapses of reason and intelligence. The drawback for us is that it is proportionately more difficult to get chances to see him, esp this side. But when we do get them, they are worth every instant of the wait, even when the films themselves are not top notch. Think of the range of is repetoire. Hugh can't touch it, at least not with the things I know about. I'd really rather have ODB doing fewer better things than doing what Harrison Ford, Tom Cruise, Matthew Broderck, and the rest of the American stable keep doing, making one good movie to hint at what they are capable of then spending the rest of their lives on schlock where they play themselves in various more or less ridiculous settings for the money. It makes me very cross, but at least we have CF, and I hope we always will.

Here,here

Without wishin to flog a dead horse... (Cymbeline) I'd really rather have ODB doing fewer better things than doing what Harrison Ford, Tom Cruise, Matthew Broderck, and the rest of the American stable keep doing, making one good movie to hint at what they are capable of then spending the rest of their lives on schlock where they play themselves in various more or less ridiculous settings for the money. EXACTLY! Why should it be so infuriating that CF is not making dross like HG? Why is it not a good thing that The Firth restricts himself to interesting roles, at the "expense" of greater exposure. And why is fame and exposure such a good thing? It does NOT lead to great acting roles, that's clear. I know I harp on about this, but I really DO NOT GET IT. How can one talk about floppy hair, self-publication and crappy popular films on the one hand, and wish all these things for your hero on the other? If there were a choice between taking the lead role in a Donmar play or in Mickey Blue Eyes, it's clear what a thinking man would do. I wouldn't be surprised if CF has faced a choice like this and made the right one. He should be credited for it. If we lived in an era where great movie scripts were a penny a dozen, the choice might be different. But we don't. Most scripts these days are garbage. Ask yourself this - would CF have interested everyone so much if he'd first come to America's attention in that HG film about a baby (utter shite - what was it called?) instead of Pride and Prejudice? It was Darcy first, Pizza delivery man second. p.s. Bethan, I too would love to see a film of Greengage Summer. Have other books of hers been filmed?

Ben, can I marry you? *giggle* You have such good sense! (I don't look like "la d�esse Ehle," though.)

(Karen)HG also promotes his movies. Am disgusted! By what? "Working" with a prostitute? Yak!! And his girlfriend got promoted too. This is reality, someone made a headline no matter what the cause, he gets all the attention and so do the people associated to him, it is really disgusted me! (Cymbeline)I'd really rather have ODB doing fewer better things than doing what Harrison Ford, Tom Cruise, Matthew Broderck, and the rest of the American stable keep doing,... I fully agree with you. This is something that make ODB very very special. CF is the one who truly LOVES to be a GENUINE actor (I daresay he is almost there - on the top!).

I've deleted Xian's multiple postings (nothing ominous) Let me explain my comment about (1) HG promoting his films and (2) my disgust; they are mutually exclusive comments. HG's promoting his films means only that he will appear on the television programs from coast to coast to talk about his movies. It had nothing to do with his Hollywood Blvd incident. My disgust was that I had higher expectations for DeNiro's Tribeca Films than to cast HG in that part, especially since they are apparently going to keep the story British (well, that's a maybe), unlike Cusack's hijacking of High Fidelity to the US. Could Colin have played Will? Of course. Does casting HG make sense? Sure, since he has perfected a socially inept stammering persona. However, it is now guaranteed in my mind as a piece of fluff. Could've been more with a better lead.

My disgust was that I had higher expectations for DeNiro's Tribeca Films than to cast HG in that part, especially since they are apparently going to keep the story British (well, that's a maybe), unlike Cusack's hijacking of High Fidelity to the US. Could Colin have played Will? Of course. Exactly! We knew the book was going to be filmed and knew that Will could be perfectly played by Colin. We also knew it was unlikely he would be cast since he's obviously not first choice material. It's not so pleasant to be proven right yet again but it's downright infuriating to have the role go to stuttering, blithering Hugh.

( Ben) However, the equivalent in my case is that Jennifer Ehle would have ditched Colin Firth on the spot if she'd only caught a glimpse of me... No so far-fetched...her dad , an author, was an English-Lit professor at the Univ. of North Carolina :-)))

(Ann W) Yes well done JanaC, have a safe journey and we look forward to your report on your return. Hope you don't mind my asking Jana but where exactly is it playing near you albeit within 100mmiles, I love to keep track of where it has played. Scottsdale, Arizona (Jana JH) Congratulations JanaC - I'm glad MLSF finally made it to your area. Well, that is if you can count within 100 miles as still being your area. Hope you enjoy it! Thanks, I drove like a bat out of hell to get there. Sometimes my speed limit exceeded 90 mph. Bad, bad, bad. (Karen)Great to hear that MLSF is finally within range of you, JanaC! Since I don't see it playing in Tucson or Phoenix, is it in Mexico? ;-D Scottsdale, Arizona The uppercrust capitalist area. Got the information from moviefinder.com. (Heide)Looking forward to your MLSF report, Jana Will report on MLSF area but just have to say I took two people along with me. One is from Korea and is learning English--had no comments. The other said after Colin's character had got into trouble: "how can you be angry at such a cutie." Overall the movie was quite good--although a bit choppy. As for Colin: "Il est beau."

Shadows on the Wall (a UK film website) has a review of SLOW and gave it 3 stars. Also says it will open November 26. Like Bertolucci's Besieged, The Secret Laughter of Women examines a cross-cultural romance among expats, this time in the south of France. It's an engaging romance, well-filmed, with good performances and lots of intriguing themes in its margins. It also has a nicely light feel to it--moments of comedy and insight that keep things interesting and entertaining ... if not terribly realistic. Nimi (Long) is a young single mother from Nigeria and her family is desperate to hook her up with the priest (Bakare) at the local Anglican church. The Nigerian community has very strong bonds, maintaining their cultural heritage and viewing the white man as satan. So they're all rather upset when Nimi's sparky 7-year-old son Sammy (Roberts) starts spending time with Matthew (Firth), who writes the action-comic Saracen, Sammy's hero. Soon a flash of attraction develops between Matthew and Nimi, but how ca they cross the cultural divide, Nimi's engagement and Matthew's marriage? Yes, the film does gloss over the rough edges of its story--it doesn't really have any teeth. The Nigerian subculture is very colourful and quirky, Matthew's marriage to Jenny (Goodall) is conveniently open and wobbly, Nimi's difficult past is only barely described, and even the hint of tragedy is pretty tame and at odds with the film's feel-good atmosphere. But the likeable, talented cast keeps things charming, the complex setting is quite interesting (although there's never any sense that this is happening in France) and, well, sometimes it's just nice to sit back and enjoy a rather undemanding love story. [12--themes, language] 22.Sep.99 UK release 26.Nov.99

(Ben) Why should it be so infuriating that CF is not making dross like HG? Why is it not a good thing that The Firth restricts himself to interesting roles, at the "expense" of greater exposure. I think my point was lost when I lamented the selection of HG for About a Boy. I thought AAB had the potential to be one of those very interesting roles, not dross. It is based on a charming book by an excellent author, the hero as written could be interesting and complex in the right hands and according to Nick Hornby the script was being written by the "Eating Gilbert Grape" screenwriter (sorry can't remember his name). This sounded like a great part for CF to show all his dimensions and yet it went o HG who has not shown he can do much more than be cute. Now, not only will CF lose out on an interesting opportunity but the movie will not be all it could be. I fear in HG's hands the hero will be silly and superficial instead of the more layered person he was in the book. I realize I'm essentially repeating what Heide and Karen said but I had to get that off my chest!

Karen, thanks very much for the SLOW information, how do you find out these things. I have been to SOTW website but cannot find any mention of SLOW, FP but not SLOW, where do I find the review. Its not that I don't believe you its just that I like to see it for myself, things seem to have moved so fast with SLOW (hee hee, I think I inadvertently cracked a joke). Have got something to look forward to when Film Review arrives next month. Thanks again.

and, well, sometimes it's just nice to sit back and enjoy a rather undemanding love story. This is the best compliment that can be given to any film today. The Nov. opening date sounds promising, but one never knows until it happens. Thanks Karen! Ben, I do not think CF is being offered the scripts that HG is. His role in RV could have been turned down by Rupert E., but why is Jeremy N. more well known in the US than CF? Agents are supposed to battle for you and I do not think Colin has a very good one. I think Colin would love to have a role in which he can successfully cross-over into the US market, AAB could have been the one. He deserved it, but how much did his agent battle for this?

(JanaH) I realize I'm essentially repeating what Heide and Karen said but I had to get that off my chest! No, hon, you said it much better than I. :-) (Ann) how do you find out these things I was looking for something else! ;-D A review of Wisdom of Crocodiles, which I saw last night. (A good one for Laura) Because that site is done with frames, I couldn't post the exact link. Click on "sneak preview" and scroll down. It is alphabetical. You will find it there with the one picture everyone has of Colin and the boy. That being said, I would still go to the LIFF to see it. ;-D as Moon said: The Nov. opening date sounds promising, but one never knows until it happens. Exactly!! Look at the info for the US release of FP. I rest my case. ;-D (Moon) why is Jeremy N. more well known in the US than CF? Has to be the good fortune of being heavily promoted for AIH while basking in the great critical reviews for himself and the film The Winslow Boy, which according to that website will open in the UK on 29 October.

Donmar news - Not sure if this detail has been posted yet, but the date of the Donmar Warehouse fund-raising gala with the cast of 3DoR is 18 January 2000. Further details as they become available. No, I don't know any more than this so far. Confidential to Murph - Of course you may!

why is Jeremy N. more well known in the US than CF? Agents are supposed to battle for you and I do not think Colin has a very good one. Ummm... Don't they have the same agent? I seem to recall hearing that from my ICM London friend. I could be mistaken.

I didn't mean to tread on anyone's toes. There are lots of good roles in which CF would be wonderful. Some might also be in popular and commercially successful films, though my point was that the two rarely go together these days. But when Moon says I think Colin would love to have a role in which he can successfully cross-over into the US market , the truth is we none of us know about this. And in the absence of specific knowledge, what's wrong with assuming simply that he's happy doing what he's doing? If he were frustrated by the situation then he would presumably get a new agent. In the immortal words of Sting, philanthropist and poet extraordinaire, "if you love someone, set them free". I saw Another Country last night, quite by chance. I hadn't seen it since it first came out. V. good, though not quite as good as I'd remembered it. I was left feeling mainly that Bennett, who was really Burgess I suppose, was a spoiled brat. He cuts of his nose to spite his face because he didn't get into some public school club. Not every British Ambo in Paris was in Pop (the real equivalent of "the Gods"), nor has every one been heterosexual. The whole point about Burgess and Blunt was that they were t the heart of the establishment. Sir Anthony Blunt, Director of the Cortauld and Keeper of the Queen's Pictures? No-one's pretending society is or was wholly tolerant, but please! Are we to believe that if he'd been straight, Blunt would have risen higher? There wasn't anything higher. And what about the innumerable homosexuals who were not traitors? I didn't buy it. Anyway, now I've got that rant of my chest, YDB was excellent throughout, of course.

Thanks for the SLOW review, Karen. But the likeable, talented cast keeps things charming Yessssss. Re: HG in AAB and the other Firth lamentations: Several weeks ago I read an article in NY Times about the difference between 'actors' and 'stars'--they're not usually the same. It's difficult for an actor to become a star (don't we know); it can be just as difficult for a star to become an actor. Syvester Stallone's name was mentioned in the latter category. The trend of stars appearing on stage as a means of validating (or finding) their talent was also mentioned. It seems clear to me that CF is an actor (whether he *wants* to be a star is up for iscussion) whereas HG, thanks to his success in 4Weddings and his 'patented' repeat performance of the same bumbling character in other films (Notting Hill), is a star. Unfortunately, stars usually get all the good scripts, which works out fine when the star is an actor (Tom Hanks). I don't have the article anymore (long gone to recycling depot). I'll try to find it on line in the archives if anyone's interested. Wonder of wonders, FP has not only found its way to NY, but will also play in Jersey as well (starts Friday)! Woohoo! Jana, pop over to Topic 121 and tell us more about your reaction to MLSF. Glad you got to see it. Glad you didn't get a speeding ticket ;-)

(Chris) fund-raising gala with the cast of 3DoR is 18 January 2000 Isn't...wasn't that the day we were planning to depart, Evelyn? ;-D Thanks, Chris. (Eileen) the difference between 'actors' and 'stars' Definitely, although most times I hear it described as actors vs. celebrities, but they could be a rung below "stars"! Colin is an actor, first and foremost, with little if any aspiration to become a star. As your article mentioned, there are very few actor/stars out there. More on the AAB casting. It's not a done deal yet, but seems likely. Will put info on #72. Wonder of wonders, FP has not only found its way to NY, but will also play in Jersey as well (starts Friday)! Woohoo! Phaedra's cover letter mentioned four screens in the NY area. I've asked for further info, but haven't heard back yet. So NJ as well! Lucky you, she says, with teeth gnashing. ;-D

More on Donmar Gala. The evening will be offered to Friends at three level: performance-only for a gift of UK75, and performance plus party with cast and crew at One Aldwych for gifts of UK250 and UK300. Invitations have just gone out, so Donmar Friends should find something in their mailboxes this week. Murph - please do.

Karen, sorry to ask again, but is FP coming to that theatre downtown you mentioned? (What was it called - Village East, or som'ut?). In the end I called them and they said they didn't know what was being shown this week (?!?!? can that be right?). And you even mentioned three others..... Thanks, B Two stars/non-actors: Cary Grant, Julia Roberts. Two star-actors: Kevin Spacey and Al Pacino. (Also Olivier?) Two actors/non-stars: Derek Jacobi and Michael Gambon. (Also....YDB?) I can't see HG being cool enough or cynical enough for this role. Or anything enough, for that matter. Do you think the (apparently) lukewarm reception of FP was to blame for the casting of AAB?

(Karen) Phaedra's cover letter mentioned four screens in the NY area Per the ad in yesterday's NY Times: - Village East Cinemas, NYC (as you previously reported) - Kew Gardens, Queens - Nassau (Long Island) - Montclair, NJ The 2"x4" ad was buried in the Arts and Entertainment section--right where I expected to find it. Missed English premier league soccer on Fox Sports last night (too busy watching American football), but it's on again this Thursday. Will tape and fast forward *to* the commercials, for a change. You're welcome to join us on Saturday. Why, NY is just down the street from Chicago! Take Route 80 to the Geo. Washington bridge, then make a right (welll, there is that matter of 9 or 10 hours or so...) ;-) so Donmar Friends should find something in their mailboxes this week. Oohh, Evelyn, how can you resist?

Here's the full scoop. It's OK with me, Murph. - Chris October, 1999 Dear Friends Next month, the Donmar will see the long-awaited return of Robin Lefevre's brilliant production, Three Days of Rain, to our stage, welcoming back the terrific cast of Colin Firth (The English Patient, Shakespeare in Love), Elizabeth McGovern (Ordinary People) and David Morrissey (Hilary and Jackie). The highlight of our American Imports new writing season last March, Three Days of Rain unfolds a story of family secrets, betrayed friendship and unspoken passion, tracing the lives of two families through two generations. It is a play in which the secrets of the past provide the answers for the future and therefore seemed the natural choice for our millennial play. To celebrate the production and an extraordinary season for the Donmar, we are planning to host a Gala Evening on Tuesday, 18 January 2000. This will be an important fundraiser for the theatre, and we hope you will join us as we toast the New Year as well as our recent success. The festivities will kick-off with a champagne toast at the theatre, followed by a benefit performance of Three Days of Rain. After the performance, guests will be escorted to One Aldwych - a beautiful new 5-star hotel just around the corner from us in Covent Garden - for an elegant reception with the cast. It promises to be a terrific evening, but space is limited, so we encourage you to reserve your place as soon as possible for this exclusive event. We have enclosed a reply form, which outlines the various levels of participation. All pledges received by 17 December 1999 will be listed in the Gala Programme. We'd love to have you be a part of our celebration and hope you will make a special commitment to join us. With best wishes Sam Mendes Caro Newling Artistic Director Executive Producer Donmar Warehouse Gala Evening featuring THREE DAYS OF RAIN By Richard Greenberg Directed by Robin Lefevre With Colin Firth, Elizabeth McGovern and David Morrissey Tuesday, 18 January, 2000 I/We will be delighted to join you for the Donmar's Gala Evening featuring THREE DAYS OF RAIN and commit to the purchase of: _____ Benefactor Ticket(s) at �300 each (�45 cost, suggested minimum donation of �255) � Highest priority seating for the performance of THREE DAYS OF RAIN � Private pre-performance drinks reception with the Company � Exclusive post-performance party with the cast � Recognition as Benefactor in the gala programme � Acknowledgement in Donmar production programmes throughout the year _____ Patron Ticket(s) at �250 each (�40 cost, suggested minimum donation of �210) � Priority seating for the performance of THREE DAYS OF RAIN � Exclusive post-performance party with the cast � A welcome champagne toast � Recognition as Patron in the gala programme � Acknowledgement in Donmar production programmes throughout the year _____ Performance Ticket(s) at �75 each (�20 cost, suggested minimum donation of �55) � Seating for the performance of THREE DAYS OF RAIN � A welcome champagne toast _____ I/We cannot attend but wish to make a contribution of �________ to support Donmar Warehouse Projects, Ltd. I/We wish to be listed in the programme as follows: ________________________________ For further information, Please contact: NAME: ________________________________________________________________ COMPANY: ________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ PHONE: (DAY) ________________ (EVENING) _______________ FAX _______________ Credit Cards payments accepted: ______ Visa ______ MC ______ Amex Credit card number: _________________________________________ Exp. Date: ___________ Signature: _____________________________________________________________________ Please return this form with your payment to: Rachel Weinstein, Development Director, Donmar Warehouse, 41 Earlham Street, London WC2H 9LD, phone: 0171 845 5815 fax: 0207 240 4878 Cheques should be made payable to: Donmar Warehouse Projects, Ltd (Registered Charity No. 284262) [For Yanks] Still Building on Success Since the Donmar began life as a producing house under the artistic direction of Sam Mendes in October 1992, the theatre has asserted itself as a pioneer in London's performing arts community. Deliberately embracing a diverse and daring body of work, the Donmar has been able to create an award-winning program - premiering new work alongside bold interpretations of contemporary classics and small-scale musicals. This unique combination, coupled with our commitment to producing innovative, challenging work, of exceptional caliber has enabled us to attract some of the most gifted artists in the world to our stage, and has earned the theatre a world-wide reputation for excellence In creating its award-winning program, the Donmar has retained an overwhelming commitment to producing American plays and musicals, bringing both the contemporary classics and new work of American writers to life for British audiences. In fact, since our inaugural production of Sondheim and Weidman's Assassins, almost half of our productions to date have been by American playwrights and composers. In addition to promoting American work at home, the Donmar is also committed to developing its collaborative relationships with theatres overseas and sharing its work with American audiences. 1998 was an exceptional year, in which we celebrated the arrival of three Donmar-originated productions on Broadway: Sam's Mendes Tony Award-winning Cabaret, David Leveaux's magnificent interpretation of Electra with Zo� Wanamaker and David Hare's sensational adaptation of The Blue Room with Nicole Kidman and Iain Glen. Despite our artistic success, both at home and abroad, the Donmar continues to struggle financially. The wonderful intimacy of our 250-seat theatre puts severe limitations on our earned income, while the costs of producing quality theatre continue to mount. Even at full capacity, ticket sales only cover 60% of our expenses and Broadway royalties offer minimal additional support. In order for us to meet the demands of our artistic programming, we must turn to our audience for support. Recognizing the many Americans who support the work of the Donmar and valuing these friendships, we have established The American Friends of the Donmar Theatre, Inc., a not-for-profit entity, which enables you to make contributions to our theatre, while still enjoying the appropriate tax deductions as prescribed by US law. And what's more, you will also receive many exciting "perks" designed to enhance your involvement with our theatre. Great theatre can only happen with Friends like you behind-the-scenes. We hope you'll join us with a gift to the American Friends of the Donmar today. The American Friends of the Donmar Theatre, Inc. Backstage Crew 1999 - 2000 Membership Benefits Props ($50 - $149) � Advance information and priority booking for all in-house productions � Special notice of Donmar productions transferring to American � Donmar Newsletter, Notes � Discounts at local area shops and restaurants in Covent Garden Fully tax deductible Lights ($150 - $399) In addition to all benefits offered at the props level � Reduced price previews* � Acknowledgement in all in-house production programmes � Advance invitations to Gala Evenings at the Donmar and in conjunction with out productions that transfer to America (purchase required to attend) Benefits value: $25 Costumes ($400 - $849) In addition to all benefits offered at the lights level � Signed scripts for selected productions throughout the season (when published and available) � 10% Discount on Donmar merchandise Benefits value $55 Scenery ($850 -$17,49) In addition to all benefits offered at the costumes level � Complimentary programme for each in-house production (can be mailed in advance of your attendance at the theatre) � Personalised assistance in booking tickets through the Development Department � Priority access to prime "House Seat" locations at the Donmar as well as for productions which transfer to America* Benefits value: $75 * Subject to availability The Director's Forum Take your commitment one step further and play a leading role behind-the-scenes of our theatre� join the Director's Forum. Bronze ($1,750 - $7,499) In addition to all benefits offered to the Backstage Crew � Invitation for two to attend our exclusive opening night performances and cast celebrations both at the Donmar and for productions transferring to the States* � Invitations to meet and visit with our artists at private Director's Forum events at the Donmar throughout the season � Opportunity to name a theatre seat in the Donmar Warehouse � Acknowledgement as a Bronze Patron on our Sponsor Board in the theatre foyer Benefits value: $368 Silver ($7,500 - $14,999) In addition to all benefits offered at the Bronze level � Invitation for four to attend all of our exclusive opening night performances and cast celebrations both at the Donmar and for productions transferring to the States � Private backstage tour of the theatre by the Donmar's Artistic Director � Acknowledgement as a Silver Patron on our Sponsor Board in the Theatre Foyer Benefits value: $660 Gold ($15,000 and over) In addition to all benefits offered at the Silver level � Opportunity to host a private theatre party for twenty (20) at the Donmar, including a pre or post-performance reception and complimentary tickets to the production. (May be arranged for Donmar productions transferring to America) * ** � Invitation to a private dinner with the Donmar's Artistic Director � Acknowledgement as a Gold Patron on our Sponsor Board in the Theatre Foyer Benefits value: $1,660 * Subject to availability ** Catering fees not included. Events can be co-ordinated with neighbouring Covent Garden restaurant. I would to join the Backstage Crew of the Donmar Warehouse at the following level: _____ Props ($50 -$149) _____ Costumes ($400 - $849) _____ Lights ($150 -$399) _____ Scenery ($850 - $1,749) I would like to join the Director's Forum: _____ Bronze ($1,750 - $7,499) _____ Silver ($7,500 - $14,999) _____Gold ($15,000+) Details Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss______________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Postcode_____________________________________________________________________ Telephone (day)_________________________ (evening)_____________________________ Fax____________________________________ E-mail______________________________ Please acknowledge me/us in the Donmar's programs as follows (for gifts of $150 or more): ____________________________________________________________________________ _____ I/We would like to make a fully tax-deductible contribution and therefore do not want to receive any benefits in return for my gift. Payment Checks should be made payable to The American Friends of the Donmar Theatre, Inc. Please send this form along with your check to: The American Friends of the Donmar Theatre, Inc. c/o Stacy Grossman 425 Park Avenue, 26th Floor New York, NY 10022 (212) 980-6922 If you have any questions, please contact Rachel Weinstein, Development Director at the Donmar Warehouse. Phone: 011-44-171 240 4882. Fax: 011-44-171-240-4878. Email: rweinstein@donmar.demon.co.uk

Thanks Chris....Haven't gotten my invitation yet.It takes a while for mail to come to the mid-west. Yes, Karen....Jan. 18th is the date we are departing. ...so Donmar Friends should find something in their mailboxes this week. (Eileen)....Oohh, Evelyn, how can you resist? I went to one of those when WILDE premiered two years ago (also tax deductible :-))Champagne reception and dinner was at the Savoy. Got to meet JE and speak to her a few minutes...**big crush** of people.Jennifer , who is v. shy, was obviously uncomfortable.Luckily Stephen Fry was in his element,and took the stress of JE and Jude Law, who also looked like he wanted to bolt out the door. I think I'll just stick to the Donmar lobby....cozzier ... just the Spring bunch:-))

Jan. 18th is the date we are departing. Sorry to be jumping into the middle... but how long are you all staying in London? I'm thinking about going, but I haven't booked a flight, reserved tickets, looked into hotels/hostels, etc.. Is it too late?

(Winter)Is it too late? Spring Reunion at the Donmar to Welcome in the new Millennium.. January 15th,2000. Will email you details.

(Bethan) Hughie to play the lead role of Will in Nick Hornby's "About a Boy" Oh No! I have been listening to the audio book of About a Boy over the last few days (while driving to and from work) and have been happily imagining Colin as Will. I'm pleased I'm nearly at the end, now that my illusions have been shattered. The guy doing the reading is Julian Rhinde-Tull who even sounds like Colin now and then, or maybe I should say like Paul Ashworth!! I don't particulary dislike Hugh Grant, just don't think he is in the same league as ODB, but then not many are (*sign*).

Oops, that was meant to be a sigH.

Via Sue..a review of MLSF in the Miami Times: http://www.miaminewtimes.com/issues/1999-09-23/film2.html

Hmm, the About A Boy audiotapes that I picked up in London last time are read by Alan Cumming, who doesn't sound anything like Colin. ;-D

Just back from two weeks away and am having difficulty finding time to catch up on all these posts. I can record one CF sighting. I turned on the television in my hotel in Thailand and saw FP with thai subtitles. 'Fraid I didn't stay in to watch it...FP is not one of my favourites and we were on holiday:-) Perhaps if it had been dubbed, I might have been tempted!

Welcome back Allison, what do you think of the SLOW news, it is no longer in the Bank Vault.

Wecome back Allison, I guess DB follows you wherever you go. ;-) Evelyn, that Miami MLSF review was done in late Sept. when MLSF was originally supposed to open here. We expect it at the end of October. (Ben), But when Moon says I think Colin would love to have a role in which he can successfully cross-over into the US market , the truth is we none of us know about this. Ben, I did not mean to imply this to be his raison d��tre. A British author may be happy just to sell his books in England, but when they start selling in the US as well, it is a reason to rejoice. CF has a wife and several mortages to pay. An actor�s life is not exactly a stable one. Yes, I do think CF would like to have role in which he could cross-over to the US market. This does not mean that I think he wishes to become the next Mr. Cruise.

Phaedra has finally put up a page for Fever Pitch. It shows the poster, but is a bad scan. I'll try to do a scan of the brochure size one I have, but it has the NY dates slapped across the bottom. No way can do the actual poster. Nice write-up though. Here's the url: http://www.phaedracinema.com/fever.htm

WELCOME BACK, ALLISON,WE MISSED YOU

Thank you Karen for the FP URL....is the original FP page around...the one with all the games on it? This one is a little amateurish...they should have hired Murph!

(Evelyn) they should have hired Murph You said it! Isn't the poster life-size, Karen? No wonder you can't scan it (or...is there another reason?) ;-P To any Droolies or lurkers in the greater NY/NJ area interested in seeing FP on Saturday, 10/16: e-mail me. Ben, did you get my message?

Eileen: Yes, the poster is regulation size, but they also included a brochure for theater owners in the package, which has a pic of the poster and their other films looking for screens. I clicked on the Fox Sports icon. Looks like Premier League football is only on PPV this season. Last year, Fox replayed it on regular cable. So much for catching a glimpse of a FP commercial. :-(

My class finished "Valmont" on Monday, and for some reason, they were uncharacteristically silent at the end. I don't know if they were disturbed at the way the Vicomte met his end, or what. We're going to have a discussion on Wednesday, so hopefully I will have some amusing things to tell you after that!

Looks like Premier League football is only on PPV this season Live matches are broadcast on PPV, usually on Saturday mornings (I think. No listing this week in my TV Guide). Taped "English league soccer" airs Thursday 1-3 p.m. and 1-3 a.m. on Friday on Fox Sports (per NY Times). I'll tape Thursday's session and see what I get. Wonder why this isn't listed under the Fox Sports icon? (Amy) they were uncharacteristically silent at the end It was the horror of seeing Valmont in that casket, I'm sure!

Sorry to change the subject, but there is a good interview with Jeremy Northam from the E. Telegraph. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/et?ac=001182080732013&rtmo=02r0sR0q&atmo=02r0sR0q&pg=/et/99/10/12/bfnort12.html I hope the link works.

Thanks, Eileen. I was looking for the games on Sundays and Mondays, which is when they were replayed last season!

(Eileen)It was the horror of seeing Valmont in that casket, I'm sure! Believe or not, I actually laught - never believe Valmont (I was thinking about CF for sure) died! I kept saying "wake up, you fake...". I felt sad when MT came to put a rose on Valmont's tombstone, he lost the only chance that he could be loved but then he might not be happy?!

(Xian)never believe Valmont...died! I don't know--he looked pretty convincing to me. I was horrified at how pale he looked! (Silly me!)

Thanks very much for the review of SLOW, Karen. It sounds very promising. A "12" rating means that it will be considered family fare....definitely no sex or nudity! :-) According to my local independent cinema, SLOW is scheduled for a "selected release" and, yes, they will be getting it (nearly fell off my chair at this point...I didn't even expect that they would have heard of it!), but no dates as yet. Am so used to complaining about SLOW that am now rendered speechless! Sorry to have caused so much anguish with my news of HG and AAB! I must admit that although I thought AAB was a reasonably good read (but rather implausible), I thought Will was a drip.....workshy, spends his days watching TV, invents children to make himself more interesting...and had no particular desire to seeing Colin doing another NH variation of a nineties man. I'd rather see him doing someone with a bit more ooomph...like Mark Darcy (at least he has a day job!) or good ol' Flashy. Now if HG is ask d to play MD, then I will get upset! On the subject of Flashman, there was a very interesting interview with George Macdonald Fraser in the Sunday Telegraph. No mention of any forthcoming series, but I didn't really expect that. His new book consists of three stories...a re-encounter with Bismarck, acting as confidant to the Prince of Wales in the Tranby Croft afffair (cause celebre) and (best of all) crossing paths with Sherlock Holmes. All three seem to me to have great potential for TV adaptations! G M Fraser said that he's not at all ti ed of Flashman and there are still several campaigns he'd like to write about. He only writes one draft of each novel ("get it right first time"), lives quietly on the Isle of Man, is devoted to his wife, and sounds very nice! BTW Ben, HG's Bringing Up Baby film was called "9 1/2 months" and I agree that it was very dire...I actually switched off in sheer embarrassment. Couldn't watch. Welcome back Allison. Hope you had a great time!

Thank you all for your good wishes and to Evelyn for the colourful homecoming card! Feel much better after my holiday tho' still suffering from jetlag. Great news that SLOW will be on selected release. That means I do not have to think up plausible reasons to drag my DH across London to Brixton to see a film. I think he might baulk at that prospect! BTW for those who do not know London well, and are worried at the reputation of Brixton, the Ritzy (I think that is the name) in Brixton is right in the centre, on the main road and so it would not be a particularly "dangerous" area to go to. Like everywhere else in London, I would not go off the main roa s on my own at night and in Brixton, even with a companion would hesitate to go exploring down streets away from the High Street unless I knew where I was going. However the centre of Brixton is not a "no go area".

(Allison)However the centre of Brixton is not a "no go area". "That's a great comfort". :-) ~~~~~~~ (Allison)I do not have to think up plausible reasons to drag my DH across London to Brixton to see a film. Tell DH that there are some coming from farther away than"across London" to see this film. :-) ~~~~~~~~ Tickets for London FF for general public go on sale on Friday . Call 0171-928-3232. SLOW will screen on Nov. 12, Matinee and Nov.13 evening. ~~~~~~ The November Movieline magazine published my letter on p. 10.... "Lamenting" that they left Colin off the list of "Hot New British Actors"... (For List-Lurkers...that's me, Evelyn from Spring:-))

Eileen - Sadly, I don't think I can come. I have two friends coming over to go to some wedding. Depending on what time you're going, I may be able to come over, but otherwise I'll have to keep them entertained. Delight here at the Columbia Econ. Department this morning - one of our colleagues, the Canadian Robert Mundell, has just won the Nobel Prize (who remembers the "Mundell-Fleming" model from undergrad. econ.?), the second in four years from Columbia.

(Bethan) Am so used to complaining about SLOW that am now rendered speechless! LOL, Bethan! Hope you recover your speech in time to give us a full report when you finally see it. (Evelyn) "Lamenting" that they left Colin off the list of "Hot New British Actors"... Maybe they don't consider CF to be "new"? Just curious, who were some of the actors they did list? There was an interesting segment on "ET" the other night on celebrity web sites, specifically the ones involving the actor's name (i.e. colinfirth.com). Apparently some of the sites are linked to porn sites and other undesirable places. The show advised any star, no matter how minor, to buy the rights to their own name before it gets taken by someone with dubious motives. Perhaps this will encourage CF or his agent to check out cf.com, if they haven't already:-)

Hey, Susan...ready for this evening? Talk about Fever Pitch. Unable to get tickets, I am watching in some bar with an old friend from Boston who says he was nearly driven to psychoanalysis after the '86 series, and was depressed for three months. I'm just glad I'll be on hand when the Yanks win tonight.

(Eileen)Maybe they don't consider CF to be "new"? Just curious, who were some of the actors they did list? It was the same ole laundry-list: Jeremy Northam, Rupert Everett, Ewen MacGregor, Robert Carlyle, Rufus Sewell...I'll tell ya'...Colin is a "stealth star". However, a positive is that they mentioned his own film: "Colin Firth (MLSF)". Not just crank out SIL , and TEP.

(Ben)I'm just glad I'll be on hand when the Yanks win tonight. In your dreams, um, the Red Sox may be the underdog, butcha know what? They were in Cleveland too, and we kicked their a$$;) DON'T RULE THEM OUT, they may surprise you! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Not me, Ev, it was Susan I'm glad you called their error (CF's omission) to their attention! :-) Colin is a "stealth star". Hee hee! Remember what he said in the A&E interview, in response to the interviewer's comment about British character actors: "I know him--what's his name again? "I'm one of those people!"

(Eileen)Remember what he said in the A&E interview, in response to the interviewer's comment about British character actors: "I know him--what's his name again? "I'm one of those people!" He is so self-deprecating...couldn't believe so many people had come from the US and all over Europe to see 3 DOR. (Sorry Eileen....I should read the poster's name more carefully.)..

Exactly so, Eileen. I remember the first time I saw SIL, I remained in my seat to watch all the credits roll, and to sigh to myself "Ooooh, Colin Firth!" Imagine my surprise to hear others in the theater saying "Oh! Colin Firth!", as if to say "Of course. So that's who that was." They know they have seen him, but cannot place him.

Ben, Congratulations on your Nobel Prize. I was at the U of Tx Health Sci Ctr in Dallas when they won three of their Nobels. Isn't it the most exciting thing in the world to be on campus when the news comes out? Maybe we were just rubes down in Tx, but the whole university erupted. Of course I know Nobels are not news at Columbia. Evelyn, Would like to read your letter. Did you put text on drool somewhere perhaps before I started reading it? Or is Movieline an online mag? If not, can you put your letter on this list? Or send me the mag's URL? Very good thinking on your part. Did you tell them we Firthettes are in no humor to give consequence to magazines that slight ODB? Nevah! publish the URL? Thanks.

Yes please Evelyn, I would like to see it too.

(Cymbeline)Ben,Congratulations on your Nobel Prize. May I add mine too, Ben? (Cymbeline)Isn't it the most exciting thing in the world to be on campus when the news comes out? Well, it was exciting to be from the same country when the Literature Nobel was given to a Portuguese writer, and I don't really like him... (Cymbeline)Did you tell them we Firthettes are in no humor to give consequence to magazines that slight ODB? Nevah! Brilliantly put!:-)

Yes, Evelyn, I want to see your letter too. Such excitement...Bethan, I'm happy for you that you'll be able to see SLOW in your own neighborhood. It's actually stunning to think this film is not dead in the water after all. And a Nobel Prize for Columbia is quite thrilling. Are you sure you can't make it to NJ Saturday, Ben, so Eileen and I can say we met someone who knows someone who won a Nobel Prize? Sylvana, hope you're coming Saturday too. Any others able to make the trek?

Can anyone give me some help with formatting messages. The main thing I'd like to be able to do is quote bits of people's messages in my replies. I've been around the spring help screen but haven't found specific info. I seem to recall reading that there is some tutorial or something somewhere. I did know a bit of HTML but haven't used it in a while and would have to bone up. Can anyone point mein the right direction? Many thanks.

(CymThe main thing I'd like to be able to do is quote bits of people's messages in my replies. Contact our obliging host Karen...she is the best cyber-mentor a fella could hope for. ~~~~~~ (Heide) Yes, Evelyn, I want to see your letter too. Hey, this isn't going to win the Pulitzer...but for all your cheapos who don't want to buy MOVIELINE ('n I don't blame you...it's a rag).... "FIRST THINGS FIRTH What? You don't include Colin Firth (My Life So Far) in the list of hot British actors ("Hollywood Ink, Sept.'99)? Ten lashes! He is not only a hunk, but surprise, surprise...he can act too, which is a lot more than some on your list can do." This was an email written in a spirit of pure frustration. ~~~~~~~ **Congratulations, Ben***To Columbia,and your Department ...you do our country a great honor!!

Bee-you-tee-full, Evelyn! Succinct and nicely expressed. Kudos! May I remind The-Powers-That-Be (At least on this board), that we are rapidly approaching the Millenium as far as responses on 119 are concerned. Plan ahead ... Please.

This is an excellent HTML tutorial written by our bud Ann H of austen.com: http://www.spring.net/~anneh/toota.html We use Topic 61 to practice our advanced computer skills, the most of which is closing one's tags! ;-D http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/61/new Depending on when you try things out, there may be people out there who will answer your questions. Big brother/sister are watching you. :-D

In response to KJ's plea, we seem to only be able to post 1,999 responses on any one topic. (Perhaps on January 1, we'll be able to make it to 2,000.) When we get closer to that magic number, we'll be creating a new topic to continue our Colin contemplation. For newer posters and readers, if you come in the front door, (Jess Clark is leaning in the doorway to welcome you), you'll see the new topic has been created. Probably will be Topic 122. You can still read Topic 119...just won't be able to post past #1,999. I expect we'll be doing this by Sunday.

Evelyn, Succinct and to the point. If I knew where to find Movieline I would begin watching for the cover story they are no doubt planning at this moment to make up for their pathetic lapse in cinematic judgment. Does ODB know he has an international lobbying team ever on the alert to keep his name where it belongs--on our lips--yum yum! sigh! Karen, Thanks for the pointers to the HTML tutorials. I shall go try to raise my level of cybersophistication.

(Ben) I am watching in some bar with an old friend from Boston who says he was nearly driven to psychoanalysis after the '86 series, and was depressed for three months. I can sympathize. That horrible game where the ball went thru Bill Buckner's legs traumatized me so much that I am no longer able to watch Red Sox playoff games... and with good reason, if last night's is any example. Hope you enjoyed it. Great letter, Evelyn! CF definitely should hire you as his publicist:-) Thanks for the tutorial link, Karen. I am determined to master HTML images before the millennium (actually, it may take me a millennium, being that I'm cyberclueless:-).

and with good reason, if last night's is any example. Hope you enjoyed it. ] They lost due to a bad call. The umpire has already realized the mistake. They were leading 3-0 then were up 3-2. Don't discount them. They played a GREAT Game, it's the sucky umps and cheating yanks that caused last night's loss.

Karen, bless you for the url to Ann H's tutorial,I used to go through RoP but when I tried recently I was directed somewhere else :-(

(Evelyn) "FIRST THINGS FIRTH What? You don't include Colin Firth (My Life So Far) in the list of hot British actors ("Hollywood Ink, Sept.'99)? Ten lashes! He is not only a hunk, but surprise, surprise...he can act too, which is a lot more than some on your list can do." Ooh, tell it like it is, baby. Is that your heading or Movieline's? I can just see the majority of the readers asking "My Life So Far? What's that?" You speak for me. Congratulations on getting your letter printed.

(Heide)Is that your heading or Movieline's? I can just see the majority of the readers asking "My Life So Far? What's that?" The heading is Movieline's and so is the MLSF in parens after his name. That's why I was so pleased....this is the first or (firth!) time that they didn't use SIL,or TEP , and actually gave him credit for his own movie. "One small step towards firthkind...":-) *** Thanks all for the remarks...am I the only one doing this stupid stuff? Vanity Fair knows me by name!!!They keep running interviews and pictures on all the British actors except ODB. Jennifer was featured in '97 in a stunning photo by Lord Snowdon.I want Annie Leibovitz to do his.... actors

Such excitement...Bethan, I'm happy for you that you'll be able to see SLOW in your own neighborhood. It's actually stunning to think this film is not dead in the water after all. Thanks Heide! Actually, it's not strictly in my own neigbourhood. We're fortunate to be 30 minutes drive from the National Museum of Film and Photography, which is the only National museum in the UK not based in London. It has a large IMAX screen and an excellent cinema, which has a rolling programme of smaller art house type movies...sometimes showing as many as seven or eight a week. I'd be happier if they could have given me a date for SLOW (you see, I'm already back to complaining mode!!) and I rea ly hope that a "select release" just doesn't mean just London and a couple of other venues. But it's out of the vault...and that's g-r-r-eat! BTW I have a theory as to why SLOW is premiering at the Ritzy. There's a large West African/Nigerian community in this area. Most films that premier at festivals have a post-premier party for cast and producer etc. Perhaps Brixton seemed an appropriate setting...and if there is a celebration after the screening, CF could easily get there from the Donmar...might even catch the closing scenes! Well done Evelyn!

(Bethan)"select release" just doesn't mean just London and a couple of other venues. But it's out of the vault...and that's g-r-r-eat! Does this mean that you have given up going to the London Film Festival now that it's going to play "in your own backyard"? Or will you surprise us and support Colin....:-)

Pardon a little shift of gears here. I just saw Circle of Friends. Won't put in any spoilers here since there may be one or two other people who still haven't seen it, but you must allow me to tell you how much I admired and loved it. Of course there should have been a *great deal more* screen time for ODB, but I thought he was a stitch, and I'd like to see him do more comedy. He's got a Pythonesque eye for the upper class twit, and I kept thinking Simon Westward was exactly what Mr. Darcy's great-great grandson would have been like. Also power watching with your eyes closed (something only Firthettes can do) brought out that Darcy voice, and there was the little insecure hmmm he also gives in P&P when he's about to make a self-revelatory statement and the hand over the mouth. Altogether delightful. I can see why he'd like to do roles like this and Lord Wessex--more fun than the male ingenue. I think he'd really shine in a *good* screwball comedy which someone recently noted (Ben? on this topic?) is what SIL is. But I'd like to see him star. Perhaps that is what FP is--haven't seen it yet and it looks like being months before I'll be able to.

Cheating Yanks? Or bleating Sox? To be fair, the BoSox players did not attribute the loss to the decision, obviously wrong though it was. They were right - Bernie didn't hit the homer because of the ump. and, I reckon, Mariano is so good he'd've got out of it anyway. My poor Bostonian friend was surrounded by New Yorkers screaming "nine-teen eight-teen, nine-teen eight-teen!" Same bar, same people, same drinks tonight. Some New England puritanical masochism thing, I suppose. THANKS FOR THE TUTORIAL! V. well done, and much appreciated. Heide, what's the timing on Sat.? I have two constraints, you see: my guests, and game 3. (And thanks for the thanks for the congrats. re: Mundell. He is fully deserving of it - the guy's a giant of the field. Fascinating man too - did all his great work in his twenties, so had plenty of time to spend painting pictures, being and recovering from being an alcoholic, and getting married a couple of times. Being in the same department is the only link that I - a Lilliputian of the field - have with the great man. And that's about to end too...) On a wholly unrelated note, what happened to those rumours about future Fearthlings, i.e. Signora Firth's pregnancy? No more? Just imagine....generations of drooling for you lot. A hard choice when Firth pere is 57 and Firth fils 18.....

(Bethan) if there is a celebration after the screening, CF could easily get there from the Donmar...might even catch the closing scenes! So does this mean you're going to go? ;-D Actually, the company that bought SLOW is a very small, startup co. Doubt there will be a big bash. Maybe all the KFC you can eat. ;-D Isn't this purty? My poster doesn't have the NY dates plastered across their legs though

It's purty, alright! But animated Firth is even purtier. Especially in his gray undies...

Excellent new article about DQ: From bus bust-ups to brio, Donna Franceschild�s updated take on �Don Quixote� has it all, says James Rampton All�s fare in love Fare-play with a modern-day Don Quixote and the fun of the fare Battle of the little big horns All the fun of the fare THE caller to the late-night phone-in is in full rant mode. A sort of Victor Meldrew with added attitude, he is incensed about the unreliability of his newly privatised local bus service. He is fulminating at the phone-in guest, the smoothie regional executive of the new bus operator, the Port Clyde-based Windmill Transport. "I was waiting for my bus to work this morning. It was due at 7:12, but did it turn up at 7:12? Did it hell. It turned up at 7:33. Twenty-one minutes late. I want you to sort out that bus! You�re the bastard responsible! It�s down to you, isn�t it? It�s you! It�s you!" This is the opening scene from Donovan Quick, a new film from BBC Scotland which has just finished shooting in Glasgow and one which may well ring bells with the users of some privatised bus services in Scotland. It certainly chimes with Donovan Quick. Fired-up by the phone-in, he decides to take up the righteous cause of tilting at this windmill by setting up his own one-man bus company. Before you can say "Cervantes", Quick�s quick-on-its-feet enterprise is a huge success and a threat to the highly competitive Windmill Transport. Donna Franceschild, the Scottish-based writer of such acclaimed dramas as Takin� Over the Asylum and Mug�s Game, reckoned that the buses were a good, er, vehicle for her updated version of Don Quixote�s heroic yet ultimately doomed struggle against an invincible enemy. "I wanted to find a monolithic giant against which Donovan could fight," explains Franceschild, sitting on the location catering bus (no, it�s not one of Windmill�s). "I thought of creating a rapacious, Thatcherite company, and during my research I came across a former miner in Fife who�d started up a one-man bus operation with his redundancy money and immediately fell foul of a big bus company. It was real David and Goliath stuff." Donovan Quick is a story that appeals to our natural love of the underdog. "In Britain, there�s this wonderful thing about fair play," Franceschild continues. "The idea of someone putting their redundancy money into a one-bus operation that then gets taken over pisses people off. Competition is one thing, but this isn�t fair. Of course, capitalism isn�t designed to be fair. Have you played Monopoly?" So she had Donovan aim his lance at this fearsome rival. "Windmill Transport, a giant with many arms, is a good target for him to attempt to slay," Franceschild says. "There�s something noble about trying to fight such a massive foe against all the odds but for all the right reasons. I wanted to examine the lack of humanity in that system. I didn�t want to write about bus deregulation as such, but create a situation where a little guy stands up to capitalism at its most rapacious. Even though he technical y loses, Donovan and his friends are empowered by standing up to the big guy." Readers may be sensing similarities in all this with Stagecoach, the powerful, real-life bus company. However, Franceschild is quick to dampen down any comparisons. "We didn�t want to single out any one bus company," she says. "At the time of privatisation, there were a lot of big fish swallowing smaller fish." On the other hand, there was a time when Brian Souter, Stagecoach�s maverick boss and the nearest thing to Richard Branson in Scottish corporate circles, might have seen himself in the Donovan Quick role. Pilot fish feeding off the leavings of ponderous corporate leviathan one minute, sleek killer whale the next; that�s capitalism for you. Colin Firth is well-cast as the dreamily idealistic Donovan whose mission inspires his landlords, the down-at-heel Pannick family, to better themselves. In one scene, he sits behind the wheel of his bus on his first run from Port Clyde to Canon Bridge and launches into a spirited rallying-cry to his reluctant cohort, a conductor with learning disabilities called Sancho Panza � sorry, Sandy Pannick (played by David Brown). "We are about to embark on a great mission, Sandy. A great quest. To fight the might Windmill. And they will try to defeat us. Make no mistake about that, Sandy. And they won�t care who they hurt. Because there are no people in their equations. Only �customers�." Rousing stuff. Firth is unwinding in a rather fancy Japanese restaurant following a hot afternoon in the central Glasgow studio. Director David Blair, who collaborated with Franceschild on her two previous hits, has been driving him and Brown hard in a scene where they return home defiantly singing "We Shall Not Be Moved" after a punishing day battling Windmill buses. When Blair finally says he�s happy after numerous takes, Firth jokily asks: "Shall we have an end-of-scene party?" Firth thinks we have all got a touch of the Donovan Quicks about us. "Like most powerful myths, it�s universal. If there�s anything I'm passionate about or decide to fight, it�s usually a case of Don Quixote � a pathetically ineffectual human being taking on something which doesn�t feel the blows at all and which is probably the wrong target anyway. Donovan never gets a punch in before he�s flat on his back, but his spirit is winning and his courage is absolute. "Donovan is never going to get the girl, he s never going to defeat the dragon, but he�s going to keep going anyway. Is there a better way to describe the human condition?" According to Franceschild, maybe we should all be a bit more quixotic. "A lot of people are politically cynical, as Labour have turned out like the Tories Mark II," she sighs. "But when true opposition comes back, it�ll be because of a few lunatics who are never going to win but who start to make us think things can be different. Donovan Quick is inspirational - even though he�s a fool and a failure. At the end, he hangs up his lance, but you think �what a great man�. You could never make this in the Stat s � they�d say, �this guy Quick is a bit of a loser� � but I love the concept of honourable failure." Don�t, however, get the idea that Donovan Quick is a piece of dreary, banner-waving agitprop. It is lively, humorous writing peopled with characters we can all relate to. But it is still that rarity in these times when any form of political engagement is seen as frightfully pass�, darling: a film with a social conscience. "I used to have a play-writing tutor who said a good start for writers was asking ourselves what we are pissed off about," Franceschild concludes. "I�ll keep writing as long as I�m pisse off. "Anger about the kind of conditions some people are struggling in fuels my work. My husband is a nurse, and I get paid a lot more than he does. I think that�s obscene. What I do is frivolous; what he does is vital." Franceschild has obviously struck a chord with this story. Another film version of Cervantes�s novel is currently in production. Typical, you wait ages for an adaptation of Don Quixote, then two come along at the same time. Donovan Quick will be broadcast on BBC1 sometime in the near future.

So now we know, he likes sushi! but create a situation where a little guy stands up to capitalism at its most rapacious. Hey, who is she calling a little guy? �this guy Quick is a bit of a loser� But does he lose the girl this time? Nah! "Like most powerful myths, it�s universal. If there�s anything I'm passionate about or decide to fight, it�s usually a case of Don Quixote � a pathetically ineffectual human being taking on something which doesn�t feel the blows at all and which is probably the wrong target anyway. Don Quixote is a marvelous knight and quite an effectual human being. I must disagree with the Firth this time. Maybe we can discuss the film and the book on 98 in the future. :-D (Marcia), It's purty, alright! But animated Firth is even purtier. Especially in his gray undies... Marcia, did I miss something here? Thank you, karen! Great scoop!

Terrific stuff on DQ! Thanks very much Karen. I have a feeling this could be the pick of the bunch....Donna Franceschild's last collaboration with David Blair ("Taking over the asylum") was outstanding and well deserved its BAFTA. Blair, who collaborated with Franceschild on her two previous hits, has been driving him (CF) and Brown hard in a scene where they return home defiantly singing "We Shall Not Be Moved" after a punishing day battling Windmill buses. When Blair finally says he�s happy after numerous takes, Firth jokily asks: "Shall we have an end-of-scene party?" NIce one! I like the sound of this scene! Actually, the company that bought SLOW is a very small, startup co.(Karen) What's it called? I'm really impressed by the way you manage to track down all this information!

Why did I know Moon was going to pick up on the Japanese restaurant and sushi? ;-D But, more importantly, we now know he's a party animal!! When Blair finally says he�s happy after numerous takes, Firth jokily asks: "Shall we have an end-of-scene party?" What kills me is that they don't see the urgency of getting their DQ in front of the public. Granted Terry Gilliam's isn't even in production yet, but they've known about it since Day One. I wonder if they think it could go theatrical at all since no one is pushing to get it on BBC's schedule during a concrete timeframe. :-(

Thanks for the DQ article Karen, where on earth did you find it, have you been in touch with BBC Scotland. Is it worth writing to the BBC to see if they know when it is to be televised. Bethan, according to The London Film Festival programme the Company that bought SLOW is Optimum Releasing, do you know anything about them.?

Wonderful article, Karen. Can you tell us where you found it? Wish they could give us a date on this. Perhaps it will coincide with other activities going on in London. this guy Quick is a bit of a loser� (Moon)But does he lose the girl this time? Nah! I'm afraid it sounds as if he does..."Donovan is never going to get the girl," But we will hear him sing again!...scene where they return home defiantly singing "We Shall Not Be Moved" after a punishing day battling Windmill buses Ben, we'll let you know those movie times as soon as we know them. We're on pins and needles here.