Thanks Esbee for the review..... ( SB) but must admit that i was slightly disappointed in the movie over all. I loved the first 1/3, .... No one said it was a great movie....we said Colin was great.And we loved it for that reason. I doubt v. much if I would have flown to Dallas to see it if it had not bee a Colin film. **** You didn't give us your take on the hayloft scene....

(Evelyn) You didn't give us your take on the hayloft scene.... Hmmm... i certainly didnt think it was a rape. In truth, i never would have thought that any more happened, then what we saw, if i wasnt reading our disection of it, here at drool. :) But, it did seem rather dis-jointed, perhaps this was one of the places where the film was edited down. (Lynda) I loved Edward doing the exercises with the boys and telling them to gird their loins. He kicked up his heels so high, coming down the stairs, that I thought he was going to kick himself in the bum. LOL! I loved that scene! It had me shivering in my seat -as much from how cold it looked, as from being exposed to so much of Colin in that Bathing Suit! ;) (hee hee) Don't forget that even Darcy had a servant to assist him with his bath. Now there's a position i'd like to apply for! :) "I'm sorry sir, I've missed a spot and i'll have to scrub your back again... oops! I've dropped that slippery wash cloth -dont mind my fingers while i search for it..." ;)

Oh you are awful, SB. heehee

What can I say? I am reeling from all your wonderful reviews, impressions and evocative descriptions of MLSF. I have also gone a gorgeous shade of green. Any news of the number of theatres showing it to be increased? Some of you have had a real trek to see it. Thanks for creating such a lovely haven for those of us who have not yet seen it to visit.

Sorry, my English is very bad. I hope I will not bother you. When I have left the cinema after seeing MLSF, one gentleman of, maybe, 50 years old was very willing to comment about the plot. He said that Beethoven himself was a bit just like Edward, because he too "took his brother's wife". I assured him briefly that identifying the "immortal beloved", which is alluded in one of the composer's letters, with his brother Johann wife is entirely a Hollywood invention. And that Beethoven condemned Mozart for having written "Don Giovanni",-such a frivolous subject in his opinion. I could have added that Beethoven's high ideea about women and marriage is expressed in "Fidelio", where a wife is ready to enter in the prison to save his husband. But he looked at me so surprised, that I gave up. So, you see, this movie(MLSF) can produce very unexpected reactions among the american male audience. They are not prepared to accept "more" redemption :-) And I think they would have laughted if that was to be shown on the screen, as someone suggested here. I have always associated in my mind Mr.Darcy with the composer(born in 1770). On the other hand, Beethoven's music, seen as a source of energy, is nourishing Edward's mind. An inventor which boils his watch and looks at the egg... and behaves childishly, because this is how his mind can work! P.S.For french-speaking moviegoers, like me, Heloise's voice (from the factory) sounds clearly: ...arrete...please (=stop, please).

Welcome Cristina....what an interesting introspection you have given us. Mr Darcy like Beethoven.....come to think of it he does look like him . (Gary Oldman in "Beloved Immortal"). Wonderful to have a french-speaking Firthfan among us.Have you seen any other of Colin Firth's films besides P&P? Stick around...we would enjoy hearing more of your comments.It always invigorates us to have a newcomer come on board!!

Welcome Cristina. Do not worry about your English. You have brought up some very interesting points and cleared up what Heloise said. Arrete makes perfect sense. I like how you've linked genius and childish behavior because it is true. Edward, while no Beethoven or Einstein, has the instincts of a genius. They are often extremely childish in their behavior as if other parts of the brain, where maturity resides has not developed fully. Cristina, please continue to join in here or on the other boards.

Welcome, Cristina. So true about genius and childish behaviour - perhaps because these kinds of people are, by necessity, so self-absorbed. Re: Edward's immaturity. Part of the problem was how he was treated - like an indulged child, without responsibility but also without authority. IMO, Gamma's worst moment was berating Edward as if he were a naughty boy, not only in front of Morris and the workers, but his son, in the blasting scene. I felt so sorry for Edward in that scene; he was so publicly treated with such disrespect. Edward's response was not that of a man, but of an obedient, submissive (but resentful) child. Didn't much care for G mma in the scene where Elspeth asks Moira's permission to call Heloise by her given name. And Edward didn't act in the baby Fraser scene or the Halloween scene until Gamma told him to. I had wondered why Morris, the natural heir, left Kiloran; perhaps he knew he'd never become a man living under Gamma's rule.

(Lynda) Gamma's worst moment was berating Edward as if he were a naughty boy, not only in front of Morris and the workers, but his son, in the blasting scene. I didn't get the impression that everyone could hear Gamma. Seemed as though they were far enough away. Although Andrew could certainly tell what was going to happen. One thing I especially thought cute was Andrew's comment about Morris as Edward is walking over to them and then Fraser's repeating it exactly when he and dad are walking home together. Just like a child to repeat what he hears adults say without likely knowing what is meant.

Your insights are very welcome, Cristina. As you can see, we're very glad you joined us here. (Karen) I like how you've linked genius and childish behavior because it is true. Edward, while no Beethoven or Einstein, has the instincts of a genius. They are often extremely childish in their behavior as if other parts of the brain, where maturity resides has not developed fully. I like what you say here, Karen. It's a perfect description of Edward's character. I didn't get the impression that everyone could hear Gamma. I too wasn't sure if the others could hear Gamma. My memory is often faulty but I had the impression that Edward didn't think they could hear and acted as if the idea to stop blasting was his own. But whether they could be overheard or not, I too didn't care for Gamma's scolding. I know her son-in-law exasperates her but it appears that she felt a genuine fondness for him. Perhaps her method of admonishment was to forestall Morris who surely would have made a bigger fool of Edward in front of everyone iven the chance.

(Heide) Perhaps her method of admonishment was to forestall Morris who surely would have made a bigger fool of Edward in front of everyone given the chance. This makes sense -I wondered about that scene, it seemed slightly out of character for Gamma to scold him that way. Remember when the smoke started escaping all across the front yard, and Gamma calls out the window to Edward -there's a completely different tone to it. And when she turns around and sees Moria standing there in frozen horror (over the necklace) Gamma hurries to reassure her that she wasnt actually upset with Edward.

Perhaps I was wrong in my take on this scene, but I got the impression that others heard Gamma because of the way Fraser tried to reassure his dad afterwards and Edward's response that Gamma thought Uncle Morris knew best. Also, if Morris had berated Edward, Edward might have been able to respond in a more grown-up way. I do think Gamma loved Edward (witness the look on her face as she watched him exercising with the boys) but did not treat him as a man , IMO.

There's no question in my mind that Gamma loved Edward; she did leave Kiloran to him. However, Gamma treats her boys like boys, even Morris. She rules with an iron fist in a velvet glove. Whether the moss crew and Fraser heard Gamma berate Edward is not all that important because the others all knew what was going on. Andrew even made that comment before Edward approached the car.

I just saw MLSF today...it was a "surprise" when it popped up here, (in Cleveland, Ohio) but I made sure that I was at the first showing!! I appreciate reading all the comments here, esp. re: Gamma's control over here "brood". I would have to agree... I will be going back to see it again, because like "Shakespeare in Love", I'm sure I will see more every time, if not the characters, then the scenery, etc. I'll try to come up with some "intellectually important" comments, vs. reporting that Colin has the CUTEST smile in the last scene....**mild swoon!!**

Cleveland!! Hey, there is hope for the other cities. Heard it left Washington, D.C. thought. Maybe you guys got the reels. KC: We want to hear anything you'd like to share with us. You can start with the "intellectually important" areas as (1) favorite outfit, (2) funniest lines, (3) places where you thought Edward should have punched Morris' lights out, (4) favorite bathing suits... you get the idea! Wouldn't you have wanted Colin's last look into the room to continue forever? To die for.

Well, since I have Karen's permission to be discuss such matters of doctrinal import.... I saw MLSF again yesterday and have to admit I was longing for a rewind button during the bathing suit scene. I was worried when I read about this scene two years ago that it would be a goofy looking outfit, but he looks darn cute in it. Particularly when shown running away from the camera ;-). Regarding my favorite outfit, I will have to join in with the group that the blue suit he wore at dinner was spectacular. I also liked the rolled up sleeves and braces he wore in the scene where they were tasting the asbestos (at least I think it was that scene). And didn't you cringe when you saw them breaking that asbestos apart to think of those cancer-causing particles floating through the air? Or did I imagine this? I'm pretty sure they said that chimney stuff was asbestos. And MLSF has made it to Cleveland? Great news kcjones - thanks for sharing. It's up from three theatres to five in the So Cal area so there must be some extra reels lurking around somewhere. Maybe there's still a smidge of hope for some of the other cities.

(Jana) And didn't you cringe when you saw them breaking that asbestos apart to think of those cancer-causing particles floating through the air? I thought it was pretty funny in a sick way. At least we know from the book that Edward Pettigrew (aka Adam Forman) lived to age 100 or thereabouts!

(JanaH) I also liked the rolled up sleeves and braces he wore in the scene where they were tasting the asbestos Love these matters of doctrinal import! ;-D Am partial to the shirt and braces shots myself as in watching the home movie with Fraser. You're so right about the bathing suit. I remember our discussions about it and how we were all cringing about those awful baggy things. If he couldn't go skinny dipping, I'm so glad the costume designer picked out something more flattering for all of us. ;-D

(Jana2) And MLSF has made it to Cleveland? /.../ It's up from three theatres to five in the So Cal area so there must be some extra reels lurking around somewhere. Maybe there's still a smidge of hope for some of the other cities. Not for Seattle, I fear. It has left the one theatre that it was in and is no more in the area. Not surprising, though. The Powers That Be evidently worked very hard to withhold information of its existence from the general public, and succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. I saw but one ad in print and that on the day it opened. Nothing more. (Here, great gnashing of teeth!) Well, that's one more reel available to spread a little joy around somewhere else, anyway. (I am glad to see that it made it t my natal city, at least. :-))

In my quest to introduce as many people as possible to the talents of Colin, I will be seeing MLSF for the second time (in Cleveland, Ohio) on Tuesday with a fellow Firth fan....I've already "expanded her horizons" her by insisting she see my copy of Valmont (bought from a video store going out of biz...I LOVE CF in that!!!). She's already a fan of his work in P&P, but didn't know much about his other work. I can only hope that MLSF "catches" on here in Cleveland... it's playing at the same theater that showed "The Winslow Boy" for over one month...when it had disappeared from other parts of the country. I think I'll need to see MLSF at least 3 or 4 times to get all the details, so if I can bring one or two people with me each time, hmmmmm....perhaps Miramax will notice...!!!

(Karin) I think I'll need to see MLSF at least 3 or 4 times to get all the details Absolutely! And it's interesting that I haven't gotten tired or bored with it yet. Think I will be seeing it for my 5th time today and am looking forward to it. I mean it has been slightly over a week since I saw it last. ;-D Are there any specific things that I need to look for? perhaps Miramax will notice...!!! I think the only thing Miramax is looking at right now is "Teaching Mrs. Tingle," which got trashed by the critics. However, its audience doesn't care what the critics say.

(Cristina) An inventor which boils his watch and looks at the egg... and behaves childishly, because this is how his mind can work! (Karen) I like how you've linked genius and childish behavior because it is true. Edward, while no Beethoven or Einstein, has the instincts of a genius. They are often extremely childish in their behavior as if other parts of the brain, where maturity resides has not developed fully. (Heide)I like what you say here, Karen. Oh, so do I. Don't we all know people like this? Welcome, Cristina! Loved your comments, particularly about the reaction of men in the audience. I'm glad to see MLSF expanding to other theaters/cities, but it appears to be at the expense of Seattle and Washington DC. I scoured the NY Times yesterday for the first time in 3 weekends (have been away). No MLSF ad, but listings revealed it's still playing at the Angelika. My local NJ paper surprisingly had a brief review, but it was not favorable. Grrr...

Hmmm.... think i forgot to list my favorite outfit. The Kilt- definetly the kilt. *sigh* i wish he would have worn in it in more than just one short scene.

Ladies, I thank you for your sympathy and encouragements. I'm learning a lot of informal English from you. Some of you have a very organized mind and one can feel that the discussion is making a step forward after some of your writtings here. (I suspect that some of you have Ph.D.s ... That's OK, we know Colin to prefer women with degrees ;-) I'm posting here to confess that I have seen the movie many(6) times. Just some small thoughts now: Have you noticed that the "brooding" scene (=Edward thinking to stay or leave) is musically accompanied by a music (the 3rd movement of a LvB Quartet Op.135) which is noted "Lento assai e cantante tranquillo"(=enough slow and quietly)? Now, Ladies, please tell me which other actor would dare to try to catch the watcher's attention just "sitting and brooding" on the screen in the company of an "enough slow and quietly" music ?!?! No explosion, no special effects there, not even a trumpet, just HIM sitting there, relying on his acting talent. I particullarly liked this choice of music. The next, 4th, movement of the quartet is called by the composer :"Decision very hardly taken. Muss es sein? Es muss sein!"(=Must that happen? It must!), - and is a very dramatic piece of music. But they choose the 3rd part, not hte 4th, for Edward's scene, because he does not yet know what to do. Everything in this movie is delicate and fine like a jewerly. Do not try to give it to "the crowds", it would not do! P.S. Have you seen the essays about P&P gathered in a book called "Jane Austen in Hollywood" (a chapter is titled "Mr.Darcy's Body" !). A group of droolers (with various degrees in literature) published by the Univ.of Kentucky tried to explain ... the magic.

Thank you Cristina, for describing the different movements of the music background.It gives us a better insight to the different scenes. I shall continue to hound Tower Records for the soundtrack. Since the musical score was performed by the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Simon Rattle, I hope I shall be able to find it in UK. It took six months for the P&P soundtrack to make it to the US. ***** (Cristina)Have you seen the essays about P&P gathered in a book called "Jane Austen in Hollywood"(a chapter is titled "Mr.Darcy's Body" !). No. Has anybody else seen this book....?? Is it commercially published? ***** Thanks Karen for FF review. I was surprised that it was ever commercially shown.

Re: Jane Austen in Hollywood I've never seen it, but I've read the Darcy part and I might have it on a diskette somewhere. I'll look.

Christina, I really enjoy your comments! It's very interesting that the soundtrack was performed by Simon Rattle and the Birmingham SO, our finest conductor, and for many people our finest orchestra. That enough would justify seeing MLSF. It seem to me that an awful lot of thought and effort went into making this film, and then it was subjected to a preview, and Miramax ordered a severe re-edit (30 minutes screen time lost) and virtually dumped it. Perhaps the original would have been better than the slim-line version, especially if viewed by an appreciative audience.

(Cristina) I'm posting here to confess that I have seen the movie many(6) times. Where have you been? And why haven't you joined us on the other Colin subjects? 6 times!! I'm going to have to go again this week to catch up with you, I'm only on 5. Your comments about the music are very interesting, as I too share your admiration of Colin's unique ability to project his turmoil merely by sitting in a chair near a fire, pulling on a cigarette. He's done it before with great success. About the only thing missing was the ritual splashing of water on his face. ;-D Do you know what music was used for the waltz in the rain?

(Cristina) But they choose the 3rd part, not hte 4th, for Edward's scene, because he does not yet know what to do. Very interesting and insightful! which other actor would dare to try to catch the watcher's attention just "sitting and brooding" on the screen in the company of an "enough slow and quietly" music ?!?! No explosion, no special effects there, not even a trumpet, just HIM sitting there, relying on his acting talent. *sigh* Well said. This is why we love the guy. BTW, your English is wonderful. I've only seen it once. Since it appears wide distribution will happen only when it snows in hell, I've got to head back to NYC to see it. *planning and scheming commences*

Sue reports that MLSF is still playing in Dallas. Different theatre, but in the same neighborhood. (Near a university...."arty" crowd). **** I am so impressed with Cristina's music report...I copied it on my MLSF file. Will really come in handy when we discuss the film, and get to that scene. Can you enlighten us on any of the other music? ***** Called Tower Records, soundtrack not listed . I am not surprised, since it is such a little film with limited viewing, it would not pay to produce the CD. What a bummer!!

Jane Austen in Hollywood (Evelyn)No. Has anybody else seen this book....?? Is it commercially published? (Karen) I've never seen it, but I've read the Darcy part and I might have it on a diskette somewhere. Yes, you've seen it ladies, because I had it in my hot little hands in Waterstones when we were in London. Remember? I didn't buy it 'cause I thought I'd find it in the US. Well, haven't found it yet. Emma, don't you have it? Thanks for the info on the 3rd movement of the Beethoven Quartet, Cristina. I hope to see it again Saturday (if it keeps hanging in there in Philly) and I'll take great satisfaction in listening to (and watching) this scene.

Thanks for the info on the music, Cristina. A beautiful scene. I took my sister-in-law to see MLSF in Toronto yesterday. It is playing at only one theatre now, but an art-house multiplex in a good area. She thought it a very good movie and CF cute and boyish. I just love this film and am most seriously displeased with what Miramax has done with its distribution. I hope that when it is released on video, we get the whole film. I know some of you don't like the wake scene but CF is so wonderful in it and all the scenes that follow; his acting is exquisite. I've read the "Jane Austen in Hollywood" book, but copied only the Darcy bits, which were pretty astutely written by several writers and made me drool all the more as I read them.

copied only the Darcy bits, which were pretty astutely written by several writers and made me drool all the more as I read them. I do like one of the phrases used, something about Colin as Mr. Darcy "privileging the female gaze." MLSF is out of the Philly theatre I saw it in but is moving to another (Ritz Bourse) so it must still be doing well here. The Muse has bumped it out of the Ritz East.

Yes, MLSF must be hangin' in there throughout its measly distribution--practically without advertising, no less! I've read that audiences consistently love the movie. What a shame it was "back burnered" by the powers-that-be at Miramax. I guess they learned the hard way that Rupie-baby isn't the mega-star they thought! AIH hasn't fared so well in the box office.

Just another comment on the soundtrack. I can't understand why there hasn't been more publicity given to the fact that it's performed by the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under Sir Simon Rattle. He is simply our best conductor (soon departing for top job at the Berlin) and, more significantly, he doesn't "do" film soundtracks. This must be the only one he's done. Perhaps when MLSF opens in the UK, someone will mention this!! It seems to me that Miramax initially pulled out all the big guns, then got cold feet after the first preview, got Hugh Hudson to do a severe re-edit (30 minutes is a lot of footage to lose), shelved the movie for a year, and then dumped it in favour of RE and AIH. I think that with the limited number of prints available, it can only open in a few independent art-house type cinemas in London when it finally comes to the UK. Shame!!

Shame, indeed, Bethan! I can only hope that when they finally release the video that a "director's cut" will be issued. (but they probably won't ... it'll lose money, I'm sure, and after all, that IS the name of the game, isn't it?

Status report on MLSF in Cleveland, Ohio....I am totally bummin' because the movie listings for today say that MLSF will be leaving the local (only) theater that had it for about 2 weeks...so, some OTHER lucky city will get that reel...SO, I will be seeing it tomorrow, with my neighbor, and most likely back again on Tuesday, the last day... it will be interesting to see how long the pathetic "Teaching Mrs.Tingle" stays in local theaters, also a Miramax film, which has received much more press and interviews with the "stars" than MLSF ever did...I heard the original title was "Killing Mrs.Tingle", but because of the Columbine shootings, they changed the title...tells you a lot about the quality (and redeeming subject matter) of the film, eh??! Why does the Miramax press dept. decide to "throw away" a MLSF???? I realize that Colin was busy filming, and probably could not do the "press junket", but why spend all that money to MAKE the film and then not promote it...GRRRR!!! Sorry for the "pity party" tonight, but ODB deserves better, esp. when he is the LEAD actor!!!

Hear Hear Karin, and without any promotion or advertising I understand it has done as well as an AIH did in the first 5 weeks, so with a little more help who knows!!

As has been postulated by many, IMO Miramax decided early on (pre-Cannes) to treat MLSF the way it has. If it had become a huge hit (in spite of Miramax), with critical raves, lines around the theater, showings sold out, etc. things would be different now. Regardless, it has been somewhat successful. Several well-known critics gave glowing reviews. Its early box office returns were good. Audiences seem to like it. Alas, this is not enough for Miramax. They're sticking to their original stingy relea e and promotion strategies. My DH watched 'Enemy of the State' the other night. Fifteen minutes was enough for me. Startling premise and special effects aside, I thought it was terrible. The acting was simply awful...but it made a gabillion $$$. It was aimed directly at the cyberyouth of today, who obviously didn't care about the acting. I understand 'The Matrix' was similar. So this is what we have to look forward to in the future...clones of this type of movie. Horror was the ticket to success in the US this summer. If a n n-Diehard movie starring Bruce Willis can carry the box office, you know audiences don't care about acting quality. When artsy pics such as AIH, Winslow Boy, MLSF etc. don't do well (for whatever reason), those of us who do care about acting, whose standards have been raised by CF, are out of luck. We shall have to make due and hope things change. But there's always TV and the stage (and video)!

Still, there are critics who can recognize quality. This one gave MLSF a B+: A coming of age tale, based on the memoirs of Sir Denis Forman, MY LIFE SO FAR will be seen as a delight for film lovers of small independent movies. Ten years old Fraser lives on the Kiloran Estate in the Scottish Highlands in the late 1920's. Fraser's life and the life of his unusual family, especially his eccentric father Edward (Colin Firth) creator of the only moss factory in Europe, have their lives changed with the visit from Uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell) and his lovely French fianc�e Heloise. Combining the fine photography of Bernard Lutic, and incredible cast of actors (including Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio), and direction by Hugh Hudson (CHARIOTS OF FIRE), you will have a memorable film experience. Alex Scudder for American Dreamer

From the Boston Phoenix , 8-9-99, : My Life So Far DIRECTED BY: Hugh Hudson REVIEWED: 08-09-99 By the titles of their memoirs you will know them. The subject of Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man will become James Joyce; the author of My Life So Far (originally titled Son of Adam) will grow up to be Sir Denis Forman, a British television executive. Joyce is a genius; Forman is not -- yet Hugh Hudson's adaptation of Forman's book enlightens and entertains as long as it adheres to the casual, inchoate, eccentric spirit suggested by its title. Here Forman has been rechristened Fraser Pettigrew (Robert Norman), the scion of Kiloran House, which is owned by his grandmother Gamma (Rosemary Harris) and ruled by Gamma and her daughter Moira (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio). The uncertain interloper in this post-World War I Scottish Elysium is Fraser's beloved father, Edward (Colin Firth), who has taken the rolling-stone proverb to heart and turned the estate into the world's only supplier of sphagnum moss. That and his penchant for Beethoven, fly ng machines, and cold outdoor baths mark Edward as a free spirit. But not where matters of the flesh are concerned. He spends his spare time preaching Non-Conformist fire and brimstone -- until Moira's dapper millionaire brother Morris (Malcolm McDowell) shows up with his young French bride, H�lo�se (Irene Jacob). Ostensibly told from Fraser's point of view, this morality tale of desire, propriety, covetousness, and hypocrisy is most telling when Hudson keeps it at a distance (a final confrontation is jarring and distasteful), allowing Norman's carrot-topped curiosity and insouciance to take charge. A tasty trifle full of treats, My Life So Far is satisfying as far as it goes. --Peter Keough And a nicely-worded analysis from "Boxoffice Online Reviews": Boxoffice Movie Review Search MY LIFE SO FAR ***1/2 Starring Colin Firth, Malcolm McDowell, Robert Norman, Irene Jacob and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio. Directed by Hugh Hudson. Written by Simon Donald. Produced by David Puttnam and Steve Norris. A Miramax release. Comedy/Drama. Rated PG-13 for sexual content, including some nude pictures. Running time: 94 min. Based on Sir Denis Forman's memoir, "Son of Adam," "My Life So Far" is a gentle but trenchant period piece set in Scotland during that idyllic "long weekend" between the two world wars. Ten-year-old Fraser Pettigrew (Robert Norman) narrates not only the story of his own childhood but the story of his family and the quiet emotional chaos that erupts when Uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell) brings his French fiancee Heloise (Irene Jacob) to the family estate. That Heloise is less than half Morris's age not to mention vivacious and beautiful, escapes no one's notice, especially Fraser's inventor father, Edward (Colin Firth), and his patient mother (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio). While Fraser attempts to educate himself in the ways of the world to understand why he thinks of Heloise the way he does, Edward wrestles with his own feelings for the young woman, realizing that he needs to come of age himself, perhaps even more than his son. The film is modest in its ambitions, but in what it's trying to accomplish, it succeeds admirably. The evocation of both period and perspective seems effortless, and there's a masterful balance throughout between real emotion and genuine humor. Though sweet and charming, the tone never crosses the line into cloying mawkishness. This is a credit to the whimsical, knowing script, the clarity of the direction, and the expertise of the actors. There's not an inauthentic performance in the ensemble, a d while Norman is smartly beguiling as our ostensible protagonist, the true stand-out is Firth. It's really his story, but Firth never hogs the screen. He plays Edward with such subtlety and yet such precision that he's able to reveal Edward's feelings completely while actually saying very little on the surface. Indeed, the whole film works this way: understated yet utterly lucid. As a result, it's as poignant as it is pleasurable. -L. J. Strom To those who have already chased these down, I apologize for redundancy, but these at least SEEMED new to me and I wanted to share them.

Thanks, KJ. I don't think I've seen this last one--the one with all the bold face type!! Wow!! What a great review of Colin's performance. L.J. Strom must be a woman. While Fraser attempts to educate himself in the ways of the world to understand why he thinks of Heloise the way he does, Edward wrestles with his own feelings for the young woman, realizing that he needs to come of age himself, perhaps even more than his son. Wrestles with his own feelings? When? He acts on them right away. He only wrestles with her rejection of him. The realization that he needs to grow up only comes *after* Moira waggles her finger at him and her voice breaks a few times with choked up emotion. Other than that, the review is right on. ;-D

OHHHHHHHHH I want to see this movie, I don't see much chance of it playing anywhere near though. To make it more unbearable my sister keeps telling me what a wonderful film it is.

Thanks KJ I hadn't read any of these reviews. And what gems they are...beautifully written...well thought out reviews.A joy to read both in content and in form.

Again, apologies to those who've seen these: From the Montreal Gazette E-Files: My Life So Far Starring: Colin Firth, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Malcolm McDowell, Irene Jacob, Robbie Norman. Rated: Parental guidance,, adult themes. Mining the warmth of a handsome Life Marke Andrews Vancouver Sun From its opening scene, of a toddler crawling perilously along the gutters high atop a Scottish manor house, My Life So Far has the audience in its embrace. It's a warm place to be. The Scottish film, which reunites the Chariots of Fire team of producer David Puttnam and director Hugh Hudson (the film is dedicated to Ian Charleson, late star of Chariots), has a buoyant screenplay, well-rounded characters and cinematography that bathes the people and the Scottish countryside in a late-summer glow. The story, which screenwriter Simon Donald adapted from Denis Forman's book, Son of Adam, is told by 10-year-old Fraser (Robert Norman) in a narrative technique similar to the Swedish film My Life as a Dog. Growing up in the 1920s, Simon lives on the grand estate of his grandmother, known as Gamma (Rosemary Harris), and her extended family. Simon's father, Edward (Colin Firth), is an impulsive fellow who invents fantastic gadgets and dreams of mining the estate's moss for profit. His mother, Moi a (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio), at one time considered a musical career, but settled for family life instead. Edward and Moira, parents to two (Kelly MacDonald plays Fraser's teenage sister, Elspeth), openly show their affection for one another. Disapproving of Edward and his dreamer's existence is his older brother Morris (Malcolm McDowell), a businessman who anticipates inheriting the estate upon Gamma's death (and, the others fear, tossing them into the street). The matriarch, however, has no such plans, telling Morris: "This isn't a business, it's our home." Tension arises when Morris brings his young French fiance Heloise (Irene Jacob) to Kiloran House, and Edward feels stirrings in his britches for the newcomer. Though the characters have their bad sides, it's impossible to dislike them. Everyone here, from the family members to the kitchen staff and servants to the farm animals, shimmers with life. Some literally drop in on the action, like the pony-tailed French biplane pilot who descends from the skies and takes a shine to Elspeth. The only time the screenplay turns on itself is when Gamma fires a member of the kitchen staff for spiking her favourite dessert with booze. The settings and look of the film are as important as the characters. A merchant's truck, no doubt designed by Edward, has sandwich boards on the sides and a huge, smoking cigar on its roof. Bernard Lutic's cinematography is stunning; one moment you'll be in a dark, burnished room, the next you'll be out in the yard, the leaves shimmering from the bright sunlight. The colours are those of warmth -- browns, yellows and reds -- making the surroundings as appealing as the characters. The film really belongs to young Norman, whose Fraser learns the facts of life in odd ways. Discovering his late grandfather's dirty books, he follows each reading session with a dip in the cold pond. He conducts a hilarious birds-and-bees discussion with his father, who nervously seeks the proper euphemism for a lad's hormonal changes, and allows his 10-year-old son to come up with the metaphor: magma. That could easily stand as a metaphor for My Life So Far, a movie with much going on beneath ts handsome surface. Aug. 6, 1999 ... And From "Nitrate Online": My Life So Far Review by Elias Savada Posted 30 July 1999 Directed by Hugh Hudson. Starring Colin Firth, Rosemary Harris, Irene Jacob, Tcheky Karyo, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Robbie Norman, Kelly McDonald, and Malcolm McDowell. Screenplay by Simon Donald, based on the book "Son of Adam" by Sir Denis Forman. British director Hugh Hudson, best known for his award-winning 1981 freshman feature Chariots of Fire, the compelling tale of exhilarating personal victory at the 1924 Olympics, returns to the pre- and post-Depression decades with a smaller, intimate effort worthy of your time (a brisk 90-minutes) and dollars, but which, unfortunately, may get lost in the continuing summer onslaught of mega-films. Hudson, whose last fictional effort bombed here in the States over a decade ago (Lost Angels, featuring Beastie Boys� Adam Horovitz), has shaped an intimate world of an eccentric Scottish family, based on the precocious red-headed childhood memoirs of Royal Opera House director Sir Denis Forman. Stunningly bucolic Argyll, Scotland is Never Never Land to the large family of ten-year-old Fraser Pettigrew and his doting parents Edward and Moira to the maternal estate of Kiloran House. Father, ever so plain, but filled with a stern yet childish nature by Colin Firth (the fickle foil of the Bard and his lady love in Shakespeare in Love), spends his time creating inventions of dubious merits. He is the "kind fool," reluctantly accommodated by his six children and his staid, indulgent wife (American Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, a.k.a. Maid Marian opposite Kevin Costner in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves). Fraser, played by newcomer Robbie Norman, is a terrifyingly adventuresome child (as an infant he nonchalantly ventured out one afternoon for a crawl -- along the steep ledge high above his terrified clan), who absorbs life with wide-eyed eagerness, much like the sphagnum moss that envelopes the area (and which soaked up the blood of the Allied wounded in World War I). The moss provides a small cottage industry for the family, until Moira�s iron-fisted mother, Gamma Macintosh (Rosemary Harris), and selfish Uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell) arrive from London * with grand plans for the property, to the horrifying dismay of the current inhabitants. (*=Oops!, KJ) As Edward�s resourceful dabbling with the local plant life brings central heating to the mansion, his romantic fires are stoked by the arrival of Heloise (Irene Jacob), Morris�s fianc�e, a striking young French cellist who also plucks at the heartstrings of the sexually curious Fraser. Edward�s attention to his family is strained by his repressed infatuation with the 24-year-old mademoiselle, who instead favors the company of the clever youngster, in a seemingly harmless older-sister manner. Left alone by a father pre-occupied with his own failings, Fraser learns of the pleasures of the flesh by thumbing through his late grandfather�s library and happening upon explicit Greek texts. This extracurricular reading plays off amusingly at a pre-nuptial dinner, joined by some cross-dressing guests and a wine-guzzling reverend, with Fraser�s unabashed comments about the financial viability of prostitutes raising money for the poor. Still later, a peaceful Halloween party erupts into a melee when Fraser is accused of feeling up a friend�s sister. Wet dreams of Heloise follow for the ever-confused lad, and an even more ill-at-ease father who suggests a cold plunge in the river as a solution to his son�s condition. My Life So Far fills its short time very well. The cast carries their roles exceedingly well for such a small film, built on imperfect characters and strained relations. Even smaller roles, such as Tcheky Karyo as a daredevil aviator who lands at the estate in search of repairs, Kelly MacDonald as Fraser�s sister smitten in love by the flyer, and Freddie Jones is the red-faced Reverend Finlayson, register refreshingly. The film lingers like a good after-dinner mint, a repast sumptuously capturing the strong picturesque landscape of the Scottish highlands (where Hudson also filmed his Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan) by cinematographer Bernard Lutic, formerly aboard with Hudson on their 1985 disaster, Revolution. Innocence lays revealed before you and you relish it in all its repressed glory, much like how Fraser sneaks off to enjoy old recordings of Louis Armstrong (his classically-trained father brow-beating his son with the opinion that "Beethoven is God talking in his sleep; jazz is the devil"). We all have family secrets and it�s nice to see that someone of Hugh Hudson�s stature can show them an apt place on the cinema�s mantle.

Thanks KJ... ..The only time the screenplay turns on itself is when Gamma fires a member of the kitchen staff for spiking her favourite dessert with booze. But how about Moira's rage at the Gamma's funeral....that is the part that most of us thought the screenplay was the weakest.

This is where my memory is beginning to play me false ... I remember not liking the flow of story at this point, but, not having the chance to see it again, the events preceding this are all muddled in my head now. I'll just go with my initial feeling on seeing it, but can't back that up with specifics anymore. I'm just aware that your stated weakness is in me too ... changing my view of things upon further analysis. So, wanting to avoid foot-in-mouth disease, I won't go any further at this time. :-D

Talking of good reviews for MLSF, Steve Rhodes gives it 31/2 out of 4, the review can be found at deja-com.

search Colin Firth and scroll down the page. The Ottawa Citizen also gives it 31/2 out of 4. it is still in their and fighting despite Miramax.

sorry "there"

Well, I am finally here folks! Thanks so much to the RoP folks who e-mailed me and told me to get over to DROOL. Even though I saw MLSF awhile ago, I thought I'd add some of my views to the ones here. Well, I admit-- I walked into the movie not really knowing anything about it, other than the fact that I HAD to see it because of Colin. I saw a trailer for MLSF during An Ideal Husband and recognized CF's face. So, with little expectations, I was most pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this movie. The scenery is undoubtedly gorgeous. Here are some of my other thoughts: -- CF's role. It was nice to see him act so zany and neurotic. They painted him in so many dimensions, that I didn't know whether I liked or disliked him. He was such a wonderful father to his children, but at the same time he could be so utterly immature himself. He seemed open-minded when it came to his inventions, but was opposed to jazz. His character had lot of possibility and I felt that the movie sort of ran out of steam in the end and left a lot of loose emotional ties. The ending just seemed like an abrupt, tacked on, happy ending. -- The actor who played Fraser did a great job. Especially funny were the prostitution suggestion during dinner, and the scene where Edward catches him sitting in the armchair, listening to jazz, with a cigar! -- The whole "man in the sky" and the hairy man ideas could have been better dealt with. What the heck happened to Elsbeth then? Same with the Morris storyline. Morris didn't seem THAT bad of a character, beyond his disapproval of the way Edward employed his time. He seemed to have affection for Fraser and his other nieces and nephews. -- Rosemary Harris was wonderful! Overall, I really liked the film. It was charming and sweet, though I don't understand how it was so much "my life so far" as it was, "a day in the life..." But I definitely enjoyed all the performances, the lush landscape, and the endearing PG-13 sort of humor that is VERY different from what you would see in "American Pie" or "There's Something..." I think this film is targeted more towards adults than children so in some instances, it was a little "too" careful with delving into some actual questions and issues the film brought up.

Welcome Tracy. I remember seeing your posting at Virtual Views and knew you belonged here with us. Look around all the other Colin topics. We love new people , they invigorate us. We're all gearing up for Colin's Firthday party on #110.Preparations are on #72...If you have any questions just ask...our hosts are super about guiding people through this maze. Happy,happy to have you with us:-)))))

And I'm coming right behind Tracy to add my MLSF thoughts. I saw the movie only once in DC, in the typical small theater with no advertising; it was gone when we returned from vacation. I loved it although I know I missed some wonderful stuff because of Scottish accents and other distractions. CF was amazing, as always; that expressive face, such understated emotions and expressions. My husband, not a Firth or Austen fan particularly, enjoyed the film very much; he felt it was a wonderful exception to the usual thoughtless and noisy stuff we are too often inundated with. The funniest scene, to me, was Colin trying to act urbane and thoughtful with Frazier in the "wet dream" discussion, but blowing his nose loudly to try to get control of the situation. He ended up explaining nothing, adding to Frazier's growing realization that his father was not the superhuman being he had thought. I will impatiently await the arrival of videos. (Someone at RoP--it may have been KarenR--gave me some reassurance that terrible box office doesn't mean no videos! I trust that's true!) I'll need to see it several times to get the nuances I missed. I've learned a lot about film editing and distribution practices from the discussion so far; please keep it up! MaryLB (Mary-L at RoP)

Tracy and Mary!! So glad to have you join us and give us your comments on MLSF. I'm too wiped out to comment right now, but wanted to issue you an official greeting. As Evelyn said above, we have all sorts of discussions going on Drool that you might find as entertaining as we do. Mary, about the video of MLSF. You won't believe it, but the Miramax site now says the video will be available on May 4. I assume 2000. Probably because those 22 copies of the film have to make it around the globe by pack mule. ;-D Here's the url: http://www.miramax.com/mm_front/owa/mp.entryPoint?action=1&midStr=566 So do you think it will beat Fever Pitch's release on video in the US? :-(

And I just noticed that Miramax no longer has MLSF listed under the category of "Now Showing" with AIH, Life is Beautiful, Outside Providence, and the Very Thought of You, but has moved it to the category of "Coming Soon to Video"!! Are these people out of their minds!!

Wow, Karen, I am bowled over by that flower repeatedly blossoming in that welcome graphic! What a treat! For some reason, I am reminded of the ad that so briefly appeared for MLSF (probably because of the notable lack of it nowadays). Have you all seen it? It has the heading "Imagine a summer in Paradise with nothing to do except everything your heart desires." Nice idealized faces of MEM and IJ, and one of CF--but, as you look at him, you realize he has just a faint crafty hint to his smile... I'm glad I saved it; it will be a rarity!

Tracy and Mary!

(Karen) Are these people out of their minds!! Clearly! And Marcia had her yaks all revved up to further handle distribution :-( I noticed last weekend's NY Times had no mention of MLSF but thought those precious copies had moved on to another city. Perhaps Miramax is clearing the decks for 'Breakfast of Champions' since that megastar-with-oh-so-limited-talent, Bruce Willis, is still packing 'em in with 'Sixth Sense'. Saw the BoC trailer before MLSF. Yecchh. Welcome, Tracy and Mary!

(Tracy) He seemed open-minded when it came to his inventions, but was opposed to jazz. From what I can remember, the evils of Jazz and everything associated with it was a widely held view. It was corrupting the morals of young people. Jazz clubs were dens of iniquity. Jazz musicians smoked illegal substances. It seems very funny to us now, but at that time, I can understand a parent attempting to steer his children away from such evil influences. ;-D (Tracy) The ending just seemed like an abrupt, tacked on, happy ending. Does make you wonder what was cut from this movie...more than 30 minutes from the version that was previewed last year. The actor who played Fraser did a great job. Robbie Norman. Overall, I'd agree with you, but I've come to dislike immensely the scene where he's pouring the tea for the servants and telling them the story of how Morris met Heloise. I realize that he is aping what Morris said, down to the golfing lingo, but he's so wooden. Then he goes into that humming and bowing the cello bit. Ick! But I do love the prostitution suggestion at the dinner table and that last scene with the brandy snifter. Both get huge laughs from the audience. (Tracy) I think this film is targeted more towards adults than children You're very right on this. Didn't we read an interview with Puttnam from Indiewire (??) where the interviewer asked something about what he expected children to learn from the movie and Puttnam answered it was NOT a movie aimed at children. How it was about very grownup themes like forgiveness. I'll go look for it.

Welcome Mary LB Thanks for your MLSF comments. (Mary LB) Re: The MLSF ad:" Nice idealized faces of MEM and IJ, and one of CF--but, as you look at him, you realize he has just a faint crafty hint to his smile... " I must admit I hated that ad when it first came out...but it sorta grew on me. :-) ... Please stick around...and visit our other topics....always something goin on here.And don't forget Colin's Firthday on Friday on #110.

Thanks for your thoughts, Tracy and Mary. It's nice to see that those whose expectations were perhaps not as great as some of ours, still enjoyed the movie. And interesting too that the husband liked it. While it may seem to be a film that is more attractive to women, I have heard from others that their husbands enjoyed it as well. Of course it may just be that women who love Colin Firth would only marry "sensitive" men. ;-)

Welcome Tracy and MaryLB! (MaryLB) I am reminded of the ad that so briefly appeared for MLSF (probably because of the notable lack of it nowadays). Have you all seen it? / ... / Nice idealized faces of MEM and IJ, and one of CF / ... / I'm glad I saved it; it will be a rarity! Do you mean this one? (Evelyn) I must admit I hated that ad when it first came out...but it sorta grew on me. :-) I must admit I hated that ad when it first came out and it NEVER grew on me! I much preferred the first one aesthetically for Colin's sake and at least it gave Robbie Norman a little more recognition. Granted, it didn't leave much space in which to quote R. Ebert, but I still think it was the "Handsomest ad of my Acquaintance" -- Thus: (Hee hee) (You must forgive me -- I am image-posting drunk -- I just learned how. Hee hee!) 8-D

Post again when sober, KJ!:-)

Yes, do! I'm curious about the "first one" you mention. I've only seen two hard copy PR documents for MLSF: the infamous ad mentioned by MaryLB, and the poster in which CF is facing MEM and IJ is superimposed above. I don't recall seeing RN in that one.

(Karen) Are these people out of their minds!! Sorry to pain you all, but I think they are on their RIGHT minds because they know I want to see MLSF desprately!! "Coming to video soon..." is really for ME and I can't wait to BUY it!! As I said on another board, this is the only way I can see the movie. Please understand me!!!!!!

I hate to tell you this, guys, but that (?those?) poster image(s) is here one minute and gone the next! When I posted these yesterday, both came out fine on my browser...I was even able to print them down. Then, when I stopped by a few minutes ago, the 1st poster image was replaced by the revolving Xoom logo. Frustrated, I whipped over to play about on #61, but got the image again. Then, when I came back here, the image of both posters is again on my screen. So who knows...if you see the logo now, come back later...you may be in for a treat! (Gi) Post again when sober, KJ!:-) Never doth a drop of alcohol toucheth my lipth! (Eileen) Yes, do! I'm curious about the "first one" you mention. It supposedly WAS the infamous ad mentioned by MaryLB although I gather now some missed out on it. (I also "posted" it over on 61.96; try that if it isn't showing up here.)(And try, try again, evidently ... ) :-D the poster in which CF is facing MEM and IJ is superimposed above. I don't recall seeing RN in that one. Not a likeness, but a child running away from the loch under Colin's image and over Malcolm's name.:-) The story was centered on the boy, after all.

Oh, Ann: You mentioned a review in the "Ottowa Citizen", but gave no location. Is that online? If not, can you quote CF-relevant passages? Please?

HI, KJ, here is the Ottowa Citizen address, it is only a capsule review but they give MLSF 31/2 out of 4. http://www.ottoacitizen.com/

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/

At last it works, it is far too early in the morning for this. Sorry about all the failed postings ladies, Karen would you please delete them. KJ, just scrool down to movie listings and the first film mentioned is MLSF.

Nope, KJ, still get Xoom. Uh-oh, I hope there's not something going on with the software--we have a *big* party planned tomorrow, after all! Will check topic 61. Now that you mention it, I remember the figure of a little boy running towards the bottom of the poster. Guess it didn't make too much of an impression (but then, you know what I was focusing on!) 8-)

...and thanks for that link, AnnAnnAnnAnnAnnAnnAnn!

Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou, thankyou, thankyou, thankyou!!

I hate to tell you this, guys, but that (?those?) poster image(s) is here one minute and gone the next! Scary,,ain't it....I keep tell ya' it's the ghost of Count Almasy. I think it's only with Xoom.com images. Cause last night I did a card and it was OK.

I'm going to get laryngitis of the fingers... You can't post images from Xoom.com here or anywhere. They have controls in place to terminate them. I've explained it all on #61.

(KarenR)I'm going to get laryngitis of the fingers... LOL! I don't know about that, but I suffer (and plan to describe on some scientific mag) from mouse-finger syndrome!

laryngitis of the fingers... Digitalis?

Digitalis? Sounds deadly. Maybe I should put on some fox-gloves?

Deadly but also life-saving in some heart conditions. Mouse-finger syndrome would be in the tendinitis group:-)

Pandora Cinema are based in Paris and were co-backers and distributors of "Shine" (Geoffrey Rush Oscar Winner)and "The Disappearance of Finbar" a British film (Channel 4) which got good reviews and a selected UK release. They don't back rubbish! The only time I phoned Colin's agency (never again) just to enquire when we might see him in something, I thought they were singularly unhelpful and ill-informed! The only info I got was that SIL was opening in the UK in November, (wrong, wrong, wrong!). I remember saying "oh, so he hasn't retired then", very cheap sarcasm, quite unlike me, as I'm normally terribly polite and ooze gratitude! :-)

(Bethan) very cheap sarcasm, quite unlike me, as I'm normally terribly polite and ooze gratitude! :-) Cheap? But how appropriate! ;-)

Thanks for inviting me to post my impressions of MLSF. After my long drive on Tuesday, in the pouring rain, to the anointed location of Kew Gardens, Queens, I was required to return to work on Wednesday. After a hurricane hiatus of almost a week, the work piled on very quickly for the rest of the week. So I feel I must respond now, while I can still remember many of the details. What did happen in that hayloft? I think that Edward was guilty of making an awkward and unwanted pass at Heloise, and that is all. He was so smitten by Heloise that he was sure she would readily kiss him--the same way she kissed Fraser. He was just way off base about her feelings. Edward seemed so astonished that she would refuse him, and she would not respond after their "moss tossing." It worked for Fraser, why not for him? I think that Heloise found his behavior childish and repulsive leading up to her comments about his being a hypocrite at the dinner table. I enjoyed the scene in which Moira and Eloise find they have a common ground--music-- upon which they could enjoy one another's company. Even though their backgrounds were so different (Moira so traditional, unadorned in dress, mother to a tribe of children, starting to show her age and Eloise so modern, foreign, fashionable, free of family constraints, youthful). They were able to spend a quiet afternoon together and start a personal relationship on which they could build a family relationship as sisters-in law. Until the men ruined everything. Edward and Morris are rivals and clearly envious of the "wealth" of each other. Uncle Morris seems fascinated by Fraser's description of his parents. Fraser describes his mother as beautiful, and his father is the smartest man he knows. His parents frequently "slank off" in the afternoon. Even Gamma tells Morris that Edward and Moira adore one another. In short, Edward has everything that Morris does not--a devoted and loving family. Surely Morris is wondering if he will be so fortunate with such a young wife at such a late point in his life. Edward on the other hand is equally envious of Morris' success as a businessman; he is a millionaire with two houses, one of which Edward is living in and regarding as if he were the Lord of the Manor. Edward has yet to find financial success with any of his wacky inventions, and is not sure if he will even have a roof over his large family's head when Gamma is gone. But this post is already becoming too long. I loved CF in every scene. There are some truly breathtaking images of him in this film. The camera loves him. He wears his wardrobe with style, and looks great in everything (except the hunting jacket which looks 2 sizes too small and extremely uncomfortable). My only complaint is the length of the film. Where is the rest of the curling match? We saw so little of it I have no idea as to who was winning or losing that bet. And how did Edward make Moira laugh again. Surely they did more than dance in the rain. At 1 hr and 33 min it is the same length as a feature length cartoon (a la Disney) made for children. This is a film made for adults! Adult films are supposed to run 2 hours. I want to see the other 27 minutes!

Very perceptive comments Sylvana, especially about Morris's envy of Edward. It makes the competition between the two men even more understandable. I'm still waiting to see MLSF! BTW the version you've all seen is Harvey's cut, the edited down version to cater for those with short attention spans and limited appreciation of movies that don't feature exploding galaxies. I would love to see the Director's Cut. Twenty seven minutes is a lot footage to lose. I remember reading that the curling match took a couple of days (at least) to shoot, so the curling scene must have been much longer in the original. And didn't MEM say that the new version was compl tely different to the film they actuallly shot. Seriously, I wonder if it's worth writing to Enigma Films/Hugh Hudson to enquire if there is a Director's Cut? I'm not sure if I approve of the preview system... I think it's better to let the director's version and vision go unchallenged, even if not perfect. How come movies like "Meet Joe Black" survive uncut?

(Sylvana) I enjoyed the scene in which Moira and Eloise find they have a common ground--music I've always found Moira's comment when she walks into the room because jazz is playing pretty funny. "I thought one of the children was misbehaving." Heloise the child. (Sylvana) They were able to spend a quiet afternoon together and start a personal relationship Would they really ever though? Moira is way too conscious of Heloise's looks and youth. It's only when Heloise shows up with her cute little French accent that Moira starts feeling old and dowdy. With the rift in the family caused by Edward and Morris, I doubt, even after Edward and Moira got back together, that Moira and Heloise would be close. Heloise is too painful a reminder. Speaking of relatives, does anyone have a clue as to the Uncle Crawford relationship? Is he Moira's brother-in-law? (Sylvana) looks great in everything (except the hunting jacket which looks 2 sizes too small and extremely uncomfortable) Definitely agree with you on this one; however, there are quite a few people who love this outfit. Hated the hat as well. ;-D About the film's length and the edited-out minutes, didn't Ben say it really dragged when he saw it last year? While I too would love to see a director's cut, a film has to have a major following to justify that. Perhaps after the film does show in the UK, I'll hear from Len (or I'll contact him again) to find out if there was actually more of a curling scene. Even though it may have taken days to do, doesn't necessarily mean there was more of the game. It has more to do with the number of shots and the complexity of their setup. Think about it, there was a lot going on on the ice and each thing was rehearsed and shot numerous times. Great comments, Sylvanna. Would really like to have you join us in the next film discussion on #98. We're doing A Thousand Acres and will likely start next week or the following. (Bethan) And didn't MEM say that the new version was completely different to the film they actuallly shot. Yes, she did and that has always intrigued me. Oh, to lay my hands on a copy of the script!!

Thank you Sylvanna for your insight re: the relationship between Morris and Edward. (Sylvanna)...He wears his wardrobe with style..., Especially in that navy blue suit at the dinner table.....rivals Pemberley:-) Pl do join us for A Thousand Acres (ATA)

(Sylvana) What did happen in that hayloft? If you've read the other posts here, you'll find that most (not all) concur with you. I'm one of those who thinks your take is on the money. But I like the ambiguity. Until the men ruined everything. Interesting observation. Perhaps Moira wasn't even aware of her fading youth and beauty until Heloise came to the house and she saw how interested the men were. Typical, isn't it? I think women are wonderful together until men get into the picture. By the way, I love men. Well, some of them. Where is the rest of the curling match? We saw so little of it I have no idea as to who was winning or losing that bet. We've discussed other scenes that were thought to be too abrupt. I don't think we've brought this one up before and I have to agree. There was quite a competition going on (not just between Morris and Edward) and all of a sudden it's nighttime and the game is over. Karen, please do ask Lennie if he knows more. I'm intrigued. (Karen) Speaking of relatives, does anyone have a clue as to the Uncle Crawford relationship? Is he Moira's brother-in-law? Is he the one who saw Jesus on the lawn? I couldn't get everyone's name straight in the two viewings I had. In the book, the man who saw Jesus on the lawn was Uncle Neil or "Giant". Neil was Moira's brother. Perhaps this was never explained because then we'd have to get into an explanation as to how Edward inherited the estate over all of Gamma's sons.

(Heide) Neil was Moira's brother. Perhaps this was never explained because then we'd have to get into an explanation as to how Edward inherited the estate over all of Gamma's sons. Exactly, if he was Moira's brother, then another was bypassed for Edward. He was married to the real mousy one (did she have a name?), who was sitting with Moira after the funeral. That's how I came to the conclusion, Uncle Crawford was a brother-in-law. There are other possibilities though.

Thanks for your interesting insights, Sylvanna. I never thought about Morris being enious of Edward. (Heide)...all of a sudden it's nighttime and the game is over. Right before Gamma fell through the ice, Fraser asked her permission for Andrew Burns to use the grandfather's stones if his team got to the final. IMO, the competition was to continue the next day, but Gamma's accident ended the bonspiel. I thought Uncle Crawford (yes, Heide, he was the one who saw Jesus on the lawn) was Gamma's (or Samuel's) brother. If he were Moira's brother, it is odd that all of the sons would be disinherited in favour of Edward and Moira. Maybe "Uncle" was a courtesy title? Any ideas on why Morris called Edward a "shabby little Lothario" at the end? Surely Heloise never told him about Edward's pass !?

....Re: the curling game....There was quite a competition going on (not just between Morris and Edward) and all of a sudden it's nighttime and the game is over. Could be that the curling game is symbolic of the realcompetition going on between Morris and Edward :-) Love to look for symbolism.

(Heide) By the way, I love men. Well, some of them. Hee hee! Reminds me of a greeting card a friend spotted years ago: "If we can put a man on the moon, why don't we send them *all* there?" It's good to see discussion here again; unfortunately, so much time has elapsed since I saw the movie I can't remember many details so I won't venture to contribute.

Hello, I've just registered in this group--an American Firth drooler of a certain age. Frustrated at the difficulty of finding the videos of older parts of the oeuvre and at getting to the new ones in the theater--I'm fairly far out in the sticks--and of course the general lack of good and frequent publicity on CF this side. Two questions: 1) Has the ATA discussion started and how do I get to it? 2)I've read that CF used a body double in at least one picture. Can't remember which one and were there others? Because, if so, what's the point?

Cymbeline!! So glad you've joined us. We're a lively group of ladies (of various ages) who enjoy discussing anything even marginally associated with CF, as you'll see. Lots have shared your frustration with finding information on him or even seeing his films. It can be the ultimate and then highly rewarding once you do. :-D To answer your questions, (1) Have we started ATA? Yes and no. We've been tossing out a few comments here and there, but I think most agreed to Wednesday, October 6th. If you want to jump in earlier, however, no one will stop you. This link will take you to the beginning of some of the comments for ATA. http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/98.1410 BTW, our general Colin topic (for questions/news/complaining) is 119. Stop by and say hello there. That's probably the best place to address your second question. Everyone will have an opinion, undoubtedly! ;-D See you there!

Welcome, Cymbeline! Do join us in the other topics. If you go to http://spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/browse/all/new you can see all the drool conference topics, of which several about CF. Click on anyone of those and you're in! Hope to see you there. You already had me grinning with your second question!

Sorry, wrong url. It should be: http://spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/browse/drool/all/new

http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/browse/drool/all/new Sorry again. What can I say?