Dear All, Thanks for your kind welcomes and helpful guidance. I especially like the flipping rainbow welcome sign--that would be I were I ever to open my front door and find CF standing there--and I know it will happen some day. It's a great thing to find this fellowship of OSWWHTLTHOCF (sorry, strike the first T--there's nothing temporary about this). I will now get off this topic which I know is supposed to be confined to MLSF (and I fear I'll have to wait for the video to see it)and I'll see you on ATA and the other wonderfully gratifying CF topics.

OSWWHTLTHOCF ?????????????? And don't worry about where you decide to post. This topic is not sacrosanct. It's just that not everyone visits it because they don't want to read about the movie in advance of their ever (hopefully) being able to see it. If you post at 119, everyone stops by there and will greet you in their own manner.

Karen, I think OSWWHTLTHOCF is the Ordinarily Sensible Women Who Have Temporarily Lost Their Heads Over Colin Firth (my italics) unless of course it stands for Otherwise Soon We Will Have To Lick The Hand Of Colin Firth? BTW, never gave you due credit for the fox-glove gag here a month ago. Magnificent!

*slaps head* Boy, do I feel stupid! ;-D (although I do like the second one better...maybe I should replace the title on the main drool page) And, Cymbeline, I inadvertently omitted the lovely gents who frequent our site with their amusing and "educational" comments. Thanks, Mark, for the clarification. I must be still in a daze from those cricketing diagrams. Liked the fox-glove, huh? Didn't know how many would get it.

Mark -- You are right about the Ordinarily Sensible Woman acronym except as I say the first T should be struck. And I really like the hand licking one better. Karen -- Add my appreciation of your foxglove whimsey which I saw reading through the lovely long list of comments all about CF with no one rolling his eyes or trying to change the subject. It was very good.

Welcome, Cymbeline. To echo Karen and Gi, feel free to browse around the other topics and jump in any time.

Hi Cymbeline! Welcome to Drool :) Echoing Eileen (echoing Karen and Gi) go check out the other topics and meet everyone. Might i suggest Topic 34 (my personal favorite) which fully of steamy fanfic... Assuming of course that you're a Darcy fan as well. :) Mark- Love the hand licking acronym -LOL!

Esbee: hand licking, toe sucking... All in your line, right?;-) I must go over to 72 for your late happy birthday wish...

LOL! I know none of you will believe me, but i really dont have a foot fetish. *grin* - now the hand thing (provided of course they belong to ODB) i wont argue with! ;)

Hi, I have found yet another good review for Colin, "Firth is superb", not so good for the film though at http://ifmagazine.ifctv.com/reviews/review.asp?reviewID=161 (hope this works)/ I can't wait to hear what the UK critics make of the film and especially CF, hope they are as complementary as the American critics.

Ann, you get the medal for searching out the most reviews of MLSF on the WWW long after the rest of us gave up.This one is great for so good for the film. I bet the Brit press will like it....it's their kind of film.

This one is great for so good for the film Sorry. Should be .."great for Colin...not so good for the film"

I see that MLSF is still playing in the Boston area, West Newton to be axact, has been in that area for nearly 8 weeks, people must like it in that corner of world, obviously have excellent taste and the Boston Globe gave is a very good review. Have you seen it yet Laura and if so what did you think of it, I haven't heard of a Firthfan who does not like this film, roll on May 5th.

exact

West Newton isn't really near Boston or me:( I haven't seen it, but I can wait for it to come out on Video.

Finally (an entire week later)I�m just now getting around to this. MLSF was being shown at the local art house in Scottsdale (in a mall area surrounded by stores like Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, etc.) There were only about ten other people in the theater not counting my guests and me. I really liked this movie, it had many comical anecdotes (dog barking, eccentric father�I laughed a lot) and presented a fairly pleasant picture of a Scottish family and their weaknesses. However, the story line was too choppy and didn�t� flow smoothly. The kid who played Fraser was a true find. I really liked his interpretation of that character and he really had a remarkable way of portraying the character�s innocence. (i.e., prostitution scene). Colin looked spectacular throughout the entire movie especially in those tan pants in the beginning of the film. All the close shots of his face on the big screen were overwhelming. As for his acting, his character was uptight and a little too serious, didn�t see any gray areas and was extremely childish (needs a butt whipping) and as my friend said: what an ass----. I had a hard time as did she in believing that such a likable character (in the beginning) could have such defects�confrontation scene wit IJ (trying to steal the ole kiss). However, while he was on the floor after the fight with Uncle Morris, and his wife confronted him my friend said �how could one possibly be angry with such a cutie.� This scene, of course, reminded me of a child you scold. There were a few dull parts of course. My friend said she dozed off for a second albeit she enjoyed the movie and thought the long drive was worth it. (Note: she had been out all night and didn�t get home until 8:00 a.m. that morning�I picked her and her cousin up at 9:00 a.m.�surprised she stayed awake as long as she did). Her cousin is learning English here in America (she�s from Korea) so she can take back her skills and teach others. This, however, was not a good movie to take her too�she didn�t u derstand the dialect very well. Whew!! Now, I can read all the other posts to see what everybody else thought of the film.

And you probably found after reading the other posts, Jana, that most of us agree with your assesment, particularly the choppy editing and my-oh-my how find he looks. But you have not yet told us your thoughts on the did-he/didn't-he debate in the moss loft. Your friend is barely forgiven for falling asleep. I'd love to know at what point that was.

(needs a butt whipping) and as my friend said: what an ass---- my friend said �how could one possibly be angry with such a cutie.� Jana, your friend has such exceptional insights and good taste!! You're right, the film is not perfect by any means; however, when all is said and done, the ratio of Colin per frame vs. others puts this film way over the top!! By the way, the line forms to the rear for the butt-whipping. ;-D

Choppy editing........Hugh Hudson had to "lose" 30 minutes of the film, one quarter of the original. I've obviously not seen the movie (May 2000?) but I don't see how any movie could take this kind of cutting without the storyline and flow and character development being impaired. It may well have been overlong, but I would have thought that a 15 minutes cut would have been enough. The preview audience must have given it a thumbs down, but would the full-length version have been better (not perfect) for the more discerning viewer? I really think the preview system damages movies.

I really think the preview system damages movies. I've just heard several directors discuss this at the film fest. It may not always be a case of damaging movies but making them more marketable, which is the ultimate goal of producers/studios, as opposed to directors who are more concerned with their message or the "high art" of it all. Eric Styles talked about the ambiguous ending of "Joseph Lees" and that he had shot three different ones. (I won't say what he and the writer had wanted.) Another director fought with his producers over his ending, which they termed Benny Hill-ish or Keystone Cop-ish (which it was). Much as I'd like to condemn Miramax's interference in MLSF, we'll never know how good or bad (tedious and boring) those 30 minutes were. The number of minutes cut however is not the thing. I am much more intrigued with MEM's comment to the effect that "it was so different from the movie they made."

we'll never know how good or bad (tedious and boring) those 30 minutes were. Just think...Jana's friend could really have had a long zzzzzz. ~~~~~ Bethan, SUNSHINE RF& JE's new film goes 3 hours....cut from the director's cut of 4...And guess what? No distributor wants to touch it. It's a good film too...but at that length not marketable. Those directors have to get their act together...they know what sells.No one wants to see a film with a lot of "voice overs" and that's what happens when a film is cut...VO=Boring.

I saw MLSF and liked it very much! I believe that a lot of the cutting must have been scenes with Colin and Eloise. The barn scene where she loses her necklace is badly edited so we do not really know what happened. Later his wife accuses him big time of having something going with Eloise, and even Colin says to Malcolm She is not yours to lose. Big gap missing there. I wish studios would release videos with their original versions at least the they would have their sloppy edited copies out at the movie theatres and we could later on, catch up on the un-edited version. That seems fair to me. So did Edward make love to Eloise? Karen? I know you have seen it 4 times. :-) More later...

Good for you, Jana and Moon, braving dozing friends (she was up all night and only dozed? I would have been comatose. *Sigh* Guess my party days are behind me!) and hurricanes to see MLSF. (Moon) The barn scene where she loses her necklace is badly edited so we do not really know what happened. Considering the amount of discussion and varying opinions generated by this scene, one has to wonder if it was done this way intentionally; i.e., purposely leaving it up for interpretation by the audience. Of course, Miramax may well have thought that audiences would find rape downright repulsive. But I don't think he raped her. (Evelyn) RF& JE's new film goes 3 hours....cut from the director's cut of 4...And guess what? No distributor wants to touch it. *Cue sarcasm* Perhaps only Kevin Costner can get away with movies that are waaaaay too long these days. Saw Message in a Bottle and thought it would never end (liked the premise, though. Loved Paul Newman). (Karen) By the way, the line forms to the rear for the butt-whipping. ;-D Goody! I'm taking my number now...

But I don't think he raped her. I haven't seen the film yet, but I am awaiting it with two material points in mind which will guide my final judgement of what I will hopefully, eventually see on the screen: firthly, the person who wrote the original book is still well alive, well known, well respected and in a prominent public position, and somehow I cannot imagine that he would be entirely happy to have his father portrayed as a rapist, or vice versa. Secondly, when the film was being made, the reports from the set described Colin's character as "almost -" or "coming dangerously close to - betraying his wife". Sounds to me like someone who might be trying his luck given a seemingly easy opportunity or a misread situation.

I have enjoyed catching up on the wealth of your posts. (Laughed at the fox gloves, thanks Karen!) Despite all I read in the Summer it looks like May 2000 is the earliest we can expect it? Currently I am fantasising that when I open my 3DOR programme ODB's spiel will reveal imminent release dates for his projects, especially MLSF. Dream on Lizza!

I am using this topic for The Secret Laughter of Women This is a fairly instant review, but objective (I hope), given my gender! SLOW is a colourful and touching film, focusing apparently on race, but more importantly about love and the goals of life. Widowed Nimi's son Sami lies to his friends that he has moved to a big house, where Matt Field spontaneously helps the deception and turns out to be the author of Sami's adventure hero Saracen ("Justice, with a body-count"). Matt subsequently courts Nimi, but is comprehensively rejected by her exiled Nigerian community, who are trying to wed Nimi to the new priest. Matt uses his wealth to help her realise her ambitions at work, but is visited by his open-marriage wife, who becomes jealous of the perceived bond. Both Matt and Nimi are forced to resolve their own aspirational conflicts, catalysed by Sami's misadventure on the eve of Nimi's arranged marriage. CF starts as a wealthy, carefree, amused figure - who slowly becomes aware that he too has needs. The difficulties for Nimi are tougher, with an ancient yet matriarchal culture shaming her to learn how to cook stew, talk in proverbs and find a husband to serve, while she tries to forge her own way without fracturing her links to her community (and family). The film is strong on humorous moments, especially early on in the Church of the Anglican Ascension ("remember ... Satan is always portrayed with a white face"), and in the mansion where Matt abets Sami's fib. Later on, there are touching moments, and even an action scene and a post-coital scene. The colour is provided by Grasse, an almost irrelevantly French setting, and especially by the Nigerian Christian garb. The earthy women of the community joke about men, sex and clothes whilst trying to inculcate the ancient oppressive values into Nimi. CF is variously amusing, tender, wilful, confused and heroic, but appears to appreciate the Nigerian sensitivities before finally deciding to ride roughshod over them. I thought it was a charming film, and would be very popular in cinemas. Possibly it would need still more humour to play really well, and maybe a less formulaic denouement would help it to be more earthed in reality. Overall well worth goofing off from work! As a review, I barely need to state that the above is all IMVHO.

As a review, I barely need to state that the above is all IMVHO Well done, Mark (for both the review and blowing off work to see a CF movie). *cue applause* maybe a less formulaic denouement Recent reviews point to this as the reason it wasn't picked up earlier by distributors. Regardless, it's great to see it out of the bank vault and on the screen. I hope UK audiences forgive its flaws. Later on, there are touching moments, and even an action scene and a post-coital scene. Ahem...I wouldn't mind a few spoilers here--perhaps after the LFF is over and Evelyn, Ann, etc. have seen it?

Oh, thank you, Mark. You have missed your calling. Film criticism beckons you. Far better than 99.9% of the reviews I've read at AICN site. So, how did our "plain-speaking" Evelyn react? Did she walk out saying, "This doesn't have a prayer" or "no wonder no one bought it"? ;-D

Re-reading my review, I realise that as usual I have become dry and pompous. Only fair to say that the film is lovely and funny, and I would recommend it without hesitation to any kind of audience. Definitely did not deserve to languish in a vault!

Wonderful review Mark! I'm so glad you were able to escape work for a few hours and see it. :) Later on, there are touching moments, and even an action scene and a post-coital scene. (Eileen)Ahem...I wouldn't mind a few spoilers here-- you and me both, Eileen *hee hee* ;D and can you fill us in on if there were any great close ups of his face Mark?

I have become dry and pompous Not at all!

SB: can you fill us in on if there were any great close ups of his face Mark? Ah yes, just the sort of question I wasn't concentrating on. The answer is that there must have been, because there is so much of YDB in the film. Almost every scene features either Nia Long or himself (or both), and little of it from any kind of distance. I don't know what Evelyn or others thought yet, as I turned up seconds before the start and rushed off as soon as the credits rolled. I am confident that they will report this to be one of the most successful film releases yet from the Firthettes' point of view (i.e. focus, role, presentation of CF). If you can imagine Paul Ashworth with financial success in the bag, that's a pretty good start. His wife, BTW, describes a certain part of him as "Ever-Ready Eddie". What can this mean?

(Karen), Oh, thank you, Mark. You have missed your calling. Film criticism beckons you. Far better than 99.9% of the reviews I've read at AICN site. You and me both! Thank you Mark! Now we will be asking you opinion on many more films. :-D (Mark), His wife, BTW, describes a certain part of him as "Ever-Ready Eddie". What can this mean? LOL! We certainly want to hear much more on this from Evelyn and Ann. Now that SLOW is out, I do believe Colin has no more films in the vault. Which is more than can be said for Mr. Fiennes. ;-) I wonder if Livia attended the screening?

Terrific review Mark! I second Karen's opinion....you have missed your calling! Thanks for bunking off!

Wow, how do I follow Mark's review except to say I second everything he has said and am very glad to hear it from the male perspective as someone in the audince said it w as a chick-flick, whatever that means. Lots of lovely close-ups of Colin, and I thought the chemistry and romance betwen Nimi and Matthew was very convincing, much more so than Ruth Gemmell and Colin in Fever Pitch (and I liked FP), although you knew they would end up together you really really wanted them to. One review I read said that the end was a bit contrived and to be honest I tend to agree, I felt the ending was rather ruhed, I could have done with another 30mins. We had close-ups ,love scenes, longing gazes and even a wet shirt!!! Evelyn's comment as I mentioned on topic #123 was that it wouldn't win andy Oscars, except possible in Nigeria, but was a charming film. A must-see and a must-keep for an CF fan I am sure. What with MLSF there is so much to look forward to, oh and 3DOR.

sorry about the typos, hope you can work out what I meant to type.

sorry about the typing mistakes, I think I am in the same state at AnneH

sorry about the repeat posts

Thank you from me too Mark. I wonder how long we will have to wait to see it in the U.S.

Ann, your excitement is palpable! Thus far SLOW sounds alot like MLSF--not a perfect film but enjoyable and lots of CF to boot. What with MLSF there is so much to look forward to, oh and 3DOR. Good things come to those who wait. With SLOW (of course, you'll have to see it again when it's released later this month), TOTS, Blackadder and possibly Don Q in addition to 3DOR, May will be here before you know it!

True very true, as Lizzie once said and talking of Lizzie, JE is definitely coming to Broadway with TRT. only hope that MLSF's opening in May doesn't clash with a trip to NY!!! but what a lovely problem.

I must rush off but had to check this sight. WOW!! I'm thrilled with both your posts, Mark and Ann, and can't wait to read the rest. I want to know how it ends!! Please, more details. I'll think of questions for tomorrow if no one else does first.

Thanks for the encouraging reviews, Mark and Ann. I hope everyone else who sees it tomorrow will post ASAP. Sounds like an enjoyable film. Loved both MLSF and FP and can't wait to see SLOW. I will be in London on Dec.4 and am keeping my fingers crossed that SLOW will be playing then. The thought of seeing this film in addition to ODB on stage is so exciting that I won't mind even if it rains every day we're there. What better way to spend a rainy afternoon than drooling over Matthew - although I don't thi k my DH or son would agree with me on that.

Thanks from here, Mark and Ann. I just KNOW we will never get to see it on this side of the pond, and, since I am well known as a non-flyer, I despair of ever finding out about "Ever Ready Eddie." Mark, may I post your review on my SLOW page? I can make it "anon" if you want, but it is so good, and would cheer those who will never get to see the film. Murph

I don't want to spoil SLOW for anyone else who has a chance of seeing it in the next few weeks so just don't read the answers to the questions I'm going to post to Mark, Ann, and the others who have not yet weighed in. Sorry Bethan, Lynda - close your eyes. It will be a long wait before the video gets to these shores. How does the courtship between Matthew and Nimi come about? )help her realise her ambitions at work, Does Nimi get a job outside her restricted enclave? visited by his open-marriage wife So then we are not to find Matt's adultery distasteful.;-) I take it his wife (name?) doesn't always live with her husband and takes lovers. How is that conveyed? Echoiing the others asking for more on the post coital and action! scenes. Ann, et al, I'm sure you'll be able to give us a clear description of his physical appearance. Hair? Any interesting attire? (shorts, swimming, formal, none?) not too serious. Paul Ashworth sort of but not as rumpled? Big question - Do Matthew and Nimi end up together? And, what was the audience response? Thanks!

Here are some of the answers to some of your questions Heide. I was concentrating so much on Colin that I really need to see it again to answer all your questions. Anyway, firstly yes Nimi and Matthew do end up together, and I would say that his is the most romantic role Colin has played in a long time. They are both so sweeet they were made for each other and although Matthew and his wife seemed fond of each other, it was a very open marriage and they both knew the rules and until Matthew met Nimi he was quite happy with things. Colin wore lots of loose fitting shirts and dark suits with tee shirts underneath, showed off his lovely long lean body beautifully. His hair was a reddish brown, , very near his natural colour I would think, and curly but not as unruly as Paul Ashworth. He looked great in everything he wore. Nimi designs gardens and Matthew hired her to re-design her garden, he had 115 acres? I think that is what he said. Her family were not happy with her working for a white man. I shall have to go again to take in the things I missed the first time around.

Oh btw the audience response was pretty good, well very good seeing as most of them were probably Firth fans, they laughed in all the right places and applauded at the end.

I would say that his is the most romantic role Colin has played in a long time. Ummmmm...I knew I would like this film. How was the relationship portrayed between Sami and Matthew? Pals? Father-son? I'm afraid I will pester you all for details until I can see the whole filmin my mind...which may be the only place I will see it for months. BTW, today is Caroline Goodall's 40th birthday.

And another thing...you mentioned wet shirt. Ann, don't leave us hanging. ;-)

Well - and this is where I agree with the reviewers the ending was rather contrived and rushed . The day before Nimi's marriage to the Reverend, Sammy goes missing and Nimi seeks Matthew's help just as he is about to leave with his wife. Sammy meanwhile has gone off on an adventure to Matthew's boat, climbs in and the boat tips over and is taken out to sea or to the rocks. Colin rushes off to Nimi' side say she needs me and I need her, realises where Sammi could be, dives in fully clothed and rescues ammy from the overturned boat. Hence wet shirt!!

Great to read your reviews Mark and Ann, you have given us a really accurate picture of it, that I anm sure we would enjoy it. It makes me even sadder that it has not been picked to tour the provinces in the LFF on tour later this month. Ho HUM! I love your description of his hair Ann! Mark are you coming to 3DOR with us?

Lizza, do you know it is going on General release on the 26th . BTW thanks for your very thorough answers on #123

Of course Ann, thanks for nudging my brain there! Is that general release though or will it be very limited, eg arthouse type venues?

Didn't Bethan post something about how SLOW was going to be in "normal" theaters? I've just spoken to Evelyn a little while ago. She and Aishling and Tineke are boiling mad after the Q&A at the Ritzy! But I'll let them relate what was said.

Don't leave us in the lurch too long over the Q&A session, please, or my imagination will work overtime. Hostile questions?

Oh before I go off to bed I forgot to mention that Colin spoke three sentences in French, oh la la. Is there no end to this man's talents.

Fr..Fr..Fr..French? Be still my heart. Ending does sound contrived but hey..they can't all be award winners. I'll let you sleep, Ann, but come back tomorrow. We have other questions. Thanks so much for bearing the brunt of this. I hope Evelyn can share your load soon.

And 'ow is ees accent? Does he make beautiful music?

Murph, of course you can post my "review" on your site. Such flattery! Heide How does the courtship between Matthew and Nimi come about? After Sami gets delivered to CF's big house and CF plays along with his pretence that he lives there, CF has to return Sami to his mother. His first line about Nia Long is "Why did you tell me she wasn't beautiful?" and so begins his pursuit, which is never convincingly rebuffed. Lizza Mark are you coming to 3DOR with us? I have tickets.

Help!! What's this Yapp error? It took me an hour to write down all my comments, and when I wanted to post them, I got this yapp error and lost everything!

I guess I'll have to start all over again. First of all, Ann and Mark, I enjoyed reading your reviews of SLOW. (Ann) He looked great in everything he wore. Except for that awful bathrobe! You forgot to mention the silly but cute sneakers he's wearing in this film;-) There are a lot of P&P scenes in this film; looking through window in the above mentioned bathrobe, getting wet... Fr..Fr..Fr..French? Be still my heart. He says " Qu'est-ce que vous voulez? Comment �tes-vous rentr�?" (What do you want? How did you get in?) He speaks rather fluent, but obviously with a slight English accent. So then we are not to find Matt's adultery distasteful.;-) I take it his wife (name?) doesn't always live with her husband and takes lovers. How is that conveyed? They both live in London. Matt's in the South of France to get some rest (apparently after having had a heart attack. But this is not clear in the film. We only know because we read the production notes). Matt keeps on postponing his trip back home (another P&P parallel). We see his wife talking over the phone with Matt, with another man lying next to her in bed. How was the relationship portrayed between Sami and Matthew? Pals? Father-son? Sammy's favourite hero is Saracin, a character invented by Matt. Sammy keeps on playing these Saracin games, which gets him into trouble at times. So when Sammy meets Matt, his hero, he can't believe his luck! Of course, Sammy and Matt get along really well. Matt plays games with him, has to answer lots of Sammy's questions about life and sex...

And now, the Q&A at the Ritzy. Both the director Peter Schwabach and the producer/writer Misan Sagay were there. They were talking about all the problems they had financing the film. The main production company, Handmade Films, went bankrupt around the time they started shooting the film. This obviously lead to questions about whether this forced them to cut the film more than they would have like, whether they had to leave out important scenes. Ms Sagay replied that they were overall happy with the film, but had a hard time convincing the people not to leave out too many Nigerian scenes. She said "imagine, they almost wanted to make a film about Colin Firth!" and laughed. She wanted to make a Nigerian film and would have preferred leaving out the Colin scenes rather than the parts with the Nigerian women. And she kept on talking how they were so fortunate to get such a great cast (clearly referring to all the Nigerian woman and not Colin). Then she thought she'd impress us by saying that Jeremy Irons was going to play the part of Matt nd had thought of Whitney Houston as Nimi.

I haven't time at the moment to catch up on the posts so apologies in advance for any repeats. Although no master piece, this is a very enjoyable and comical film and CF looks gorgeous throughout. The film is set in Grasse, South of France and the location is colourful and beautiful as is the Nigerian native dress. The conversations between Matthew and Sami are very funny with Matthew having some very witty lines. Matthew is a bit of a cad and has had numerous affairs although he admits to being very happily married. The film runs for approx 40 mins before anyone knows he is married. For those worried about his infidelity, fear not. You just cannot take this film seriously. This is an open marriage with Jenny having her flings too and this is how their marriage works. One of my favourite secnes is when Matthew and Jenny are dancing together and Matthew is acting like a clown and being very laddish and extremely enjoying himself. He is also genuinely pleased to see Jenny when she makes a surprise visit. Poor CF get all wet again when he goes underwater fully clothed. He also gets to look at Nimi in his garden from an upstairs window wearing his bath robe. There was a lot of laughter throughout the film from both audiences and applause at the end. Tickets for Saturday night were sold out but due to rail works on the underground, there were no trains going to Brixton station. I wont go into the state Evelyn, Tineke and I got into. Suffice to say we made it. To whet your appetite, the Director and Writer attended on Saturday evening and held a question and answer session at the end of the screening. My cue to say "go to it Evelyn", who will be winging her way home today.

And now, the Q&A at the Ritzy. Both the director Peter Schwabach and the producer/writer Misan Sagay were there. They were talking about all the problems they had financing the film. The main production company, Handmade Films, went bankrupt around the time they started shooting the film. This obviously lead to questions about whether this forced them to cut the film more than they would have like, whether they had to leave out important scenes. Ms Sagay replied that they were overall happy with the film, but had a hard time convincing the people not to leave out too many Nigerian scenes. She said "imagine, they almost wanted to make a film about Colin Firth!" and laughed. She wanted to make a Nigerian film and would have preferred leaving out the Colin scenes rather than the parts with the Nigerian women. And she kept on talking how they were so fortunate to get such a great cast (clearly referring to all the Nigerian woman and not Colin). Then she thought she'd impress us by saying that Jeremy Irons was going to play the part of Matt nd had thought of Whitney Houston as Nimi. She didn't seem to like Colin very much. No wonder he didn't show up at the screening!

Tineke, I don't know if you know this but he was actually protesting outside the Houses of Parliament about the time Slow was being shown on Friday.

A few more spoiler thoughts, in no order: Americans get a pretty bad press in the film; the American characters I can remember are: Sami's disdainful Anglophone schoolfriends; Caroline Goodall's gormless lover, who she brings on her visit to Grasse; Matt's agent, who thinks the worst of his client and offers to sort out any mess that Matt has made. Would this affect an American distributor, I wonder? It's news to me that Matt is recovering from a heart attack (I hadn't read production notes). I was assuming he was lying low for a while after ending a liaison with a politician's wife (as the priest read out from the paper). I was going to say CG didn't look 40, but then I remembered when the film was made. She wouldn't! Tineke, are you honestly saying his French had only a "slight English accent"? I'm going to start daring to speak French again if that's true. I thought he sounded as hopeless as most of us (deliberately). On Matt's relationship with Sami, he was like the grown-up pal who dares to tell the kid the truth for the first time. "You mean all grown-ups have sex? Even the married ones?" "Especially the married ones" Re the ending: turning up with a lorryload of tomatoes is a typical Hollywood Quixotic gesture (imagine Richard Gere in Pretty Woman, or whoever that is who turns up with a yacht on a Manhattan street, or Billy Crystal bringing back a calf in City Slickers, or pretty much any romantic film of the past twenty years). Yeah, don't bust my chops, City Slickers isn't romantic, but you know what I mean. My point is it's a fairly lame bit of writing, and I sensed that CF had the decency to look embarrassed. (And it flaunted his wealth unnecessarily). What was the title about? All the Nigerian women laughed a lot together, and Nimi laughed in the "post-coital" scene, but the laughter must have been too secret for me to notice any deep meaning.

Good point about the title, Mark. What do you think, Ann, Tineke, Aishling and Evelyn? Tineke, thanks for posting the french. I would love to hear it. ;-) Re: Q&A, it seems that they are angry with Colin and this is their way of attacking him. Maybe he refused to do any publicity for the film, esp. now that it will get a theatre release. Someone had said that he was not happy with the film. Does anyone know the exact comment?

Someone had said that he was not happy with the film. Does anyone know the exact comment? Evelyn and I were speaking to two ladies from FoF at the Friday SLOW screening. They had seen 3DOR the evening before and told him that they had timed their visit to London for the play and SLOW. Apparently he said to them "ah, that's too bad"

Thanks, thanks, thanks for the additional info, Ann, Mark, Tineke, Aishling and (in abstentia) Evelyn! (Aishling) with Matthew having some very witty lines. Do you (any of you who saw it) remember them? Also, Nimi laughed in the "post-coital" scene can you tell us more about this scene? How about the 'action' scenes (besides the wet shirt water rescue scene)? (Mark) Americans get a pretty bad press in the film...Would this affect an American distributor, I wonder? That and the fact the film has received so-so reviews (not original, contrived ending, etc.). or whoever that is who turns up with a yacht on a Manhattan street Michael Douglas in Romancing the Stone. But your point is taken ;-) (Tineke) Ms Sagay replied that they were overall happy with the film, but had a hard time convincing the people not to leave out too many Nigerian scenes Perhaps those were all the scenes with the women secretly laughing :-P She said "imagine, they almost wanted to make a film about Colin Firth!" Certainly not at his insistence. Unless ODB has a vain, pompous side (naaah). Ms. Sagay's lips must have been puckered from those sour grapes. Even with Colin Firth the film came *this close* to bank vault oblivion. Jeremy Irons and Whitney Houston, huh? IMO Whitney's salary alone would have eclipsed the entire budget for this movie. (Aishling) "ah, that's too bad" It sounds like there's no love lost over this production.

Wow!! All the comments. Thank you, Mark, Tineke and Aishling. Knew you wouldn't wait too long to get back in here. Even before any comments re: SLOW, I must know: Caroline Goodall's gormless lover What is this lover missing? I shudder to think. ;-D And Tineke, if you're using IE, always "Copy" your response before submitting, just in case you need to redo it. Now back to our subject at hand... Good point about the title. What is this "secret laughter of women"? If none of you can answer that, it would seem the filmmakers did not succeed with their message. (Tineke) silly but cute sneakers he's wearing in this film;-) Ooh, someone is looking at his feet! ;-D (Aishling) Matthew is a bit of a cad and has had numerous affairs...The film runs for approx 40 mins before anyone knows he is married. I did get the impression from all I've read that he actively pursues Nimi...that he's quite the hound. :) (Tineke) She didn't seem to like Colin very much. No wonder he didn't show up at the screening! When I spoke to the guy at Optimum, he said the Director had been in contact with Colin. Yeah, I wouldn't leave it up to Misan to entice Colin into attending. (Mark) Americans get a pretty bad press in the film...Would this affect an American distributor, I wonder? Interesting point. We can do it to ourselves, but no one likes it when others do it. However, it seems that point alone wouldn't be the reason why it hasn't found an American distributor. I get the impression that it's a fairly average film. Not even one that would get a first-time writer and director noticed.

Karen: I did get the impression from all I've read that he actively pursues Nimi...that he's quite the hound. :) Absolutely. She is just another conquest until the end of the film. He tells her he is not ready for love and that she must know the boundaries!!!! What is this lover missing? I shudder to think. Speech for a start. Karen, I think you are in for a very entertaining meeting later today. Eileen: It sounds like there's no love lost over this production. I don't think so. Ms Sagay gave no credit to CF at all and he carried the film. She did say that what they could afford to pay Whitney Houston wouldn't pay for her hairdresser. I thought it very bad taste to say they wanted Jeremy Irons and that he wanted the part but by the time they were ready for filming, he was committed elsewhere. I like JI but he couldn't se him in this part. Anyway I am not going to say anymore about her. I am not sure that I have fathomed out the meaning of the title either.

(Aishling) I think you are in for a very entertaining meeting later today. I know I will. I called her up Sunday night just after she came in from seeing Mansfield Park and heard lots and lots. Oooohhhh, my phone bill!! :-o I thought it very bad taste to say they wanted Jeremy Irons and that he wanted the part but by the time they were ready for filming, he was committed elsewhere. Extremely bad taste. However, from that, I can only conclude that something happened post-production between the two (Ms. Sagay and CF). I've heard lots of directors, writers, etc., discuss their films and no one talks about having wanted someone else to play a role. It's as if you're apologizing for your film and that, if so & so were in it (as I wanted) it would have been better. Definitely think that Colin's not appearing also ruffled her fine feathers. And thank you in advance, Aishling, for prowling through the dustbins on my behalf. :-D

(Karen) However, from that, I can only conclude that something happened post-production between the two (Ms. Sagay and CF). So do I (that's what I meant by my 'no love lost' comment, Aishling). As for Sagay's bad taste in mentioning her desired cast, perhaps that was a rookie mistake (I'm going out a limb for her when she doesn't deserve it).

(Aishling) I thought it very bad taste to say they wanted Jeremy Irons and that he wanted the part but by the time they were ready for filming, he was committed elsewhere Oh, that Ms. Sagay appears to be a real bitch! I�m so glad that Colin didn�t bother to show up. On the other hand, we don�t know what has happened between them and it�s obvious that she is really deeply pissed off for some reason......I only wonder what could have caused it. This is probably the first time ever that I hear someone being so very displeased with him. Thanks for all your comments Aishling, very interesting!

Aishling and Tineke, what question lead to this unnecessary comment from Ms. Sagay, or did she offer it off her own bat so to speak. There can't have been many Firth fans there on Saturday or else I am sure there would have been a riot, I would have been furious to think that she had something like that in such a public place. Poor Colin and it is such a lovely film, and it is so romantic and the romance so convincing im my opinion anyway, but this has soured it for me, I shall always think that Colin fo one reason or another did not like it which makes the film less than convincing.

Ann, I'm rather dubious as to whether CF actually said anything derogatory about SLOW. I think that possibly he was preoccupied and misheard what was said to him. His response could be interpreted to refer to almost anything. SLOW may not be "Citizen Kane", but neither is it "Mad Cows"! As to Ms Sagaye. I'm geniuinely puzzled by her remarks. CF may not be a man without fault, but he seems to have an unblemished record of good working relationships, often leading to continuing friendships. Perhaps she never got over the disappointment of not getting J. Irons as leading man!! Or does she blame CF for the chequered history of SLOW's release.In all honesty, I don't think he could be expected to attend the Q&A,...he'd had a fairly punishing day with two performances. And he will promote (FP, IL, 3DOR) All in all, Ms Sagaye strikes me as highly unprofessional!

Did the director concur with the producer's comments? What was his attitude to CF? And why did the reference to a "good cast" apparently exclude CF? It will be interesting to see if CF does promote SLOW... promotional interview(s) often appear the weekend before release, so there's still time. Actually, Ms Sagay doesn't need CF to publicise SLOW.....as a first-time writer/producer, and a black female, she would attract attention in her own right. The BFI recently produced a report on under-representation of black minorities in film production. the media would be interested in this sort of breakthrough, especially if SLOW gets a mainstream release.

Bethan, I am not quite sure what your first paragraph means, I don't think I said Colin said anything derogatory about SLOPW did I. Aishling did say that someone who had attended 3DOR spoke to him and said they had come to see SLOW and he said "Oh Dear" or something like that, is that what you mean? and was Colin really excluded from the "good cast" comment, this is too much. Even if I were not a Colin Firth fan I would say that he was the best thing in the film and I am sure J.I could not have done bett r or W.H. better than Nia Long. Her dialogue certainly left much to be desired not Colin's acting!! Bethan you will love SLOW, I definitely did and despite everything I shall certainly be buying the video.

Regarding Ms. Sagay, is it possible she did not mean to deride Colin at all but was miffed that her film did not focus on the story she wrote - the relationships among this matriarchal society. By saying she'd rather his scenes were cut, could she mean she didn't want the love angle to be as important as the story of the women? There must have been some reason for this incomprehensible film title. It sounds as if she lost control of her own project - a bitter pill to swallow. Curious...if Nimi is just another conquest, do we see Matthew with other women as well? Excluding his wife though I'd like to know more about that relationship too. Thank you ladies, and Mark, for satisfying our curious natures so well.

I can understand that she may have been a bit miffed at as you say Heide ,losing control of her own project but that is no reason to make it sound that if she had gotten Jeremy Irons the film would have been better. (gr?) The camera did focus on Colin quite a lot and he is in most scenes, perhaps that is what she means by "they wanted to make a film of Colin Firth." Heide, we did not see Matthew with other woman and actually I hadn't realised he was a womanizer.

Although we didn't see Matthew with other women, we had the scurrilous tittle-tattle read out from the papaer by the priest, and we had his agent say to him "I can come down there and sort out the mess - you know I've done that before for you." And he was happy(ish) in his open marriage. I think Jenny implied to Nimi that she was just another girl (but she would). None of that is conclusive, I admit. Is it possible they made Ms Sagay change the ending? Maybe Nimi originally dumped both suitors and went off on her own (secretly laughing). And if Jeremy Irons had played Matthew, it would have been a very different film.

(Mark)And if Jeremy Irons had played Matthew, it would have been a very different film You must be right, Mark. Haven�t seen SLOW but personally I can�t stand Jeremy Irons and the thought of someone wanting him somewhere instead of Colin looks insane and a sacrilege! I�ve felt disgusted with JI at least since The French Lieutenant�s Woman or what was that dumb movie (sorry JI fans, just my humble opinion :-)

I've read through the production notes, which emphasize the collegiality of the entire project: how Sagay basically picked out Schwabach and how they worked closely together. Lots of complimentry things about Colin in the notes, but then again, these were written by PR people, who wouldn't make such a mistake. BTW, Evelyn said the comment was made in response to a question about whether Sagay had fulfilled her vision (or some such baloney). Not getting the cast of her dreams is something she should ha e kept to herself. I'll let Evelyn elaborate later today when she gets home and online. Nothing in the notes that helps with the title, but I like your take, Mark. Think I'll ask a woman I know, who is married to a Nigerian, about the title.

(Bethan) I'm rather dubious as to whether CF actually said anything derogatory about SLOW. I think that possibly he was preoccupied and misheard what was said to him. I know what you mean, Bethan; I had the same reaction. Re: Sagay's comments--again, it sounds to me that her comment breached the unwritten rules of professional etiquette (never diss your cast, directly or indirectly). She's new at this, right? She answered the question honestly but failed to see the impact. Possibly we're the only ones offended by her remarks, though. (Mark) Maybe Nimi originally dumped both suitors and went off on her own (secretly laughing). Hee hee! Back to the particulars... How do Matthew and Nimi end up *ahem* in bed? What were some of Matthew's funniest lines (in context)? And what about these action sequences?

Eileen How do Matthew and Nimi end up *ahem* in bed? What were some of Matthew's funniest lines (in context)? And what about these action sequences? We've heard previously that in Nimi's culture, first names have a mystical property and their use can be an intimate act. "Like making love?" asks Jenny's gormless lover. "Yes". So when Matthew and Nimi end up alone and indoors, he tells her to say his name (before she called him Mr Field, and he called her Mrs da Silva, as he didn't know her first name), so that once she does, he unwraps the bottom of her outfit... Cut to post-coital scene. Sounds awful written down, but was well acted. The action sequence was the above-mentioned scene where Sammy nearly drowns on the rickety wrecked speedboat which falls into the sea. Colin performs an underwater rescue, kicking in the window to pull Sammy out, and handing up to his anxious mother. Funny lines - I will try to recall. In his first scene, having spotted a drawing of Saracen's transporter on the hiding Sammy's wrist, he bluffs Sammy's friend with a long speech about how Star-rule 37G forbids the revelation of his whereabouts during a mission, blah, blah, or something. It was so unexpected that the audience fell about.

Thanks, Mark!

she didn't seem to like Colin apart from saying that she would have liked J.I. (which was bad enought) was there anything else she said that made you think she didn't like Colin and did the Producer/Director seem to agree with her. Personally I think she is getting above herself,although it was a sweet funny film it wasn't a great screenplay and with JI, it would neither have been sweet or funny. Sorry to any JI fans, just my opinion, and Whitney Houston & Ji. nevah!!

he tells her to say his name (before she called him Mr Field...) This is from another movie. I've heard this used before and I can't remember. It's killing me. Same type situation where the woman had never used his first name before, so he asks her to say his name. (Ann) with JI, it would neither have been sweet or funny. Totally agree and I haven't even seen the movie. ;-D Humbug on Humbert!

Could I add what I think the title of Secret Laughter of Women means. Although I haven't seen it (obviously, I'm in Boston), but could it be the language between women (i.e. friends?). Say Nimi and her friends and Jenny and her friends?

Thanks Ann, Tineke, Aishling and Mark once again for enlightening us so thoroughly! I don't think you have left a stone unturned in your quest to bring us every SLOW detail. I think I am really looking forward to seeing it and Ann has particularly convinced me by saying the video is one to keep (and treasure!) when it does eventually appear. Just one question - does he look as thin as he is now in 3DOR, or would you say he has lost weight?

Hi Gang....Mark, Ann and Aishling....you have all given a great synopsis of the film...Here is mine: ~~~~~~ Mark...sorry we missed you on the Friday screening..but Duty called, I see: to write the first SLOW review!!Thanks Mark.We took off to the distribs for press kit. Not too much to add to all my predecessors remarks.. They could have called SLOW �Man Behaving Badly and they wouldn�t have been far off the mark....and with a less skilled actor the audience would have loathed him. But even knowing his intentions are disingenuous , the audience is swept along and seduced by Matthew ..just like Nimi. You know th plot and the predictable ending. The dialogue at times is �Screen-Writing 101�stuff..but there are a few clever lines...three!I found the dialogue among the Nigerian women most appealing...esp. the preponderanceof proverbs to make a point. Misan Sagay seems to write women -talk best...along with dialogue between Matthew and Sammy ( she should, she�s a pediatrician!)Most unappealing are the lines between Matthew and Nimi....baaaad.Peter Schwabach has seen P&P more times than I have...and stolen all the best Andrew Davies scenes...He should sue. But hey, we�re the beneficiaries.As one reviewer says �CF saves the film�...and he has never looked better. So with apologies to Moon: TEN REASONS WHY I LIKED SLOW... 1. ODB has the starring role 2. He speaks French 3. He dances 4. He smolders (with sexual undertones!) 5. He flirts...(with that �on foot� smile) 6. Lots of snogs ...alas no foreplay and no shags:-( 7. Wears clothes to die for 8. Lots of close ups...plainly seen: ears pierced, neck (for those of you who are into mole-counting!)....and we noticed a small flaw under the left nostril!) 9. Good Chemistry with Nia Long. 10. Cute banter with Sammy. ~~~~~~ Womanizer references are several: 1. Jenny confronts Nimi with "there have been several"...and implies that she is another one. 2. The Reverend Folla reading in the newspaper about Matthew Fields; "...had a heart attack while bonking an MP's wife". BTW Matt has a heart attack in this film too...(alas not while bonking anybody.)It takes two viewings to get the gist of this film... ~~~~~ This is a cute film...don't know why a British distributor didn't pick it up sooner.It was available to them. IMO it has a better potential for a US audience than FP. (Somebody tell Phaedra!!)Definitely, the best ODB has looked since P&P. We will have a real party discussing this one. ~~~~ I'll give The Ritzy Report later....enough to say that it was an exasperating experience. Aishling and I reconstructed the Q&A. I spoke to the director on the way out...pertaining to US distribution. I can see that my job isn't over...if she is right.

Thanks for your comments, Evelyn. Now *shining a bright light in your eyes* it's your turn for the interrogation. I found the dialogue among the Nigerian women most appealing...esp. the preponderance of proverbs to make a point Aha! Has this something to do with "secret laughter?" Loved your top ten list! 2. The Reverend Folla reading in the newspaper about Matthew Fields; "...had a heart attack while bonking an MP's wife". BTW Matt has a heart attack in this film too...(alas not while bonking anybody.) Alas, indeed! You've lost me on the heart attack business, though. Others have referred to the newspaper article--a heart attack in one so young would be unusual (now, in someone of Jeremy Iron's age...), so it was likely a ruse--but what do you mean about Matt having a heart attack in the film? IMO it has a better potential for a US audience than FP. (Somebody tell Phaedra!!) You're right. Poor Phaedra. FP did so poorly in NY it seems to have vanished. I spoke to the director on the way out...pertaining to US distribution. I can see that my job isn't over...if she is right. Do tell! Do tell!

Welcome back, Evelyn! Loved the top 10! It is definitely one to swoon over. ;-D Did anyone point out the faux-pas to Sagay? I would have! What does the 3DOR poster look like? Have we seen the pix? Tell us all about your encounter with Colin. Did you ask about Flashman, or any future project? Do you have a pix of your lovely group? Eileen, I believe Matt was recuperating from his heart attack in the south of France. Now we know when it happened. Age is not neccesarily a factor for one to have a heart attack.

Great comments, Evelyn! and we noticed a small flaw under the left nostril!) Definitely a point we need to discuss! IMO it has a better potential for a US audience than FP. (Somebody tell Phaedra!!) Oh no!!!! It should go to somebody somewhat competent. These people don't have enough clout to get their coffee refilled at the nearest Denny's let alone find an "avelilable" [sic] screen in the entire US! I see 10 excellent reasons to see this film, when only one would have sufficed and these are double-barrelled reasons, counting two apiece: 4. He smolders (with sexual undertones!) 5. He flirts...(with that �on foot� smile) *be still my heart* (Eileen) a heart attack in one so young would be unusual (now, in someone of Jeremy Iron's age...) You are baaaaadddd! Of course, a heart attack in one so young is usually massive and fatal. But with this second one, he isn't even taken to the hospital, but to Nimi's house or her mother's house.

Hopefully, you will see the poster tomorrow. Right now it is masking taped to my wall where I photographed it this morning. Will pick up the prints tomorrow for scanning. It is an *ooohhhh yeahhhh*

It is an *ooohhhh yeahhhh* Go ahead and tease us, we tremble with anticipation. ;-)

Welcome back, Evelyn. XOXOXOX We missed you! Before I get maudlin, back to the film... What is with this heart attack business, we all want to know. He's suffered two already at his age? This film may not be a good candidate for "will they live happily ever after." Looking forward to my new SLOW wallpaper.

(Eileen)but what do you mean about Matt having a heart attack in the film? Just what I said....you see him slumped over in the car...with the people carrying him out...Then he's taken to Nimi's house!!! "The doctor said he would release him.. when we found his relatives"...then...."We found your wife" says Nimi. You see what I mean about the riveting dialogue. ~~~~ (Moon)Did anyone point out the faux-pas to Sagay? I would have! What does the 3DOR poster look like? Have we seen the pix? Tell us all about your encounter with Colin. Did you ask about Flashman, or any future project? Do you have a pix of your lovely group? Moon...I posted the encounter with Colin on 123. The 3 DOR poster is the same as the pic on the brochure. I did not ask any questions. I treat this encounter as a social one ...not an interrogation. I have no agenda when I go ....I never plan to ask him any questions. I did not ask him for an autograph ( I don't have one) and I did not take a picture.In January, I would like to take a pic of Karen and him ...I feel the poor girl was cheated in March.Like I said.. I go to relish the moment. I did not confront Ms. Sagay with any derogotory comments ...that would have been rude.I did ask her privately about the US distribution....I will give you that account later. The film ended about 11:20...the tubes stop running at midnight...and Brixton was to hell 'n gone. There were no tubes from Brixton and I was not sure we could get a taxi to Victoria to make the midnight deadline. Susan....you were our inspiration...if Susan did it alone...I felt the three of us could do it together.So we were anxious to get out...yet we wanted to stay til the end of the Q&A. We were fighting the clock. The SLOW poster is absolutely gorgeous...as is the film. This movie is a survivor...I'm convinced it will be shown in the US. A natural for Lifetime channel on cable. Definitely a "chick-flick", a date movie.A heart-stopper for sure.

I did not confront Ms. Sagay with any derogotory comments ...that would have been rude. Evelyn, you misunderstood me. Ms. Sagay should have been checked on her comments but there is no need to be derogatory or rude in doing so. I did not ask any questions. I treat this encounter as a social one ...not an interrogation. I have no agenda when I go Asking a question about a future project does not make for an interrogation and certainly in no way could he have thought you to have an agenda by asking a question. We are interrogating you with all our questions, as we do have the tendency to assail the lucky ones who chat with OVDB. I hope you do get a chance to take his picture with Karen, she deserves it! How was Summerfolk?

I feel the poor girl was cheated Don't mind me. Just sitting here wallowing in self-pity. ;-D BTW, Moon, I must have misread your comment about the poster. The 3DOR one is the same that's been posted at the theater websites, like Albemarle's. But the SLOW one is a variation of the Nimi artwork that HandMade had used. Poor Ms. Sagay, they've added Colin Firth to the poster. *boo hoo* Now people might think it's a movie about Colin Firth! ;-D