http://www.choicesdirect.co.uk

And there is "free shipping" worldwide for a limited time on Internet orders. Fabulous. Still we need to find out when (not if) it will be shown in the US.

Inspired by Bethan, I have found that Turn of the Screw will be available on video in the US in April 2000 from our buddies at WGBH (Masterpiece Theatre). That must be when it is scheduled for broadcast too. :-D http://www.wgbh.org/wgbh/pages/masterpiecetheatre/shop.html#comingsoon

Ah, there you are, things are moving on the video front...MLSF in January (US), TOTS and SLOW in April!! One advantage of made for TV dramas is that they seem to come out almost simultaneously on video. BTW, on MLSF, I recently saw a review (a good one!) from Newfoundland! It's certainly taking the long and winding road to the UK! Have you followed up your lead on DQ, Karen? If it's scheduled for a TV release it should be any time now....TV films are normally broadcast soon after completion. If they're aiming for a theatrical release (:-(), well it's anyone's guess...I just don't see a movie about an idealistic man recovering from a nervous breakdown, a dysfunctional Scottish family and a bus company, being big in the multiplexes! Evelyn, could you repeat the email for contacting the BBC about 3DOR. Thanks! Ann, when did you see the Baz B. item about CF/H-enery Higgins and My Fair Lady. Was it recently or some time ago (ie years ago!)? He'd make a good HH...there was always something of the overgrown schoolboy in the role.

Bethan, it must have been over ayear ago I read about CF playing Higgins in MFL, and it was also on the TheatreNet website as being a possibility. However, I have since read recently on that same site that Johnathan Pryce is the favourite for the role, Cameron MacIntosh? is to produce.

(Bethan)Evelyn, could you repeat the email for contacting the BBC about 3DOR. Thanks! I went for the Top Banana....but if it gets bounced back, I have others... alanyentob@bbc.co.uk

Just to let you know that I like this guy .... found myself going back to Karen's Londinium page again and again ;-) http://www.spring.net/~KarenR/cfimages/londinium/allen.jpg

My brain melted as well the rest of me

Thanks for the info Karen. I shall be checking my Masterpiece Theater lineup diligently. Get out and vote Lady Viola has AA coming up fast.

Bethan, the official BBC Scotland line on DQ is still "no date scheduled." I did get a cute response back from someone there just recently. She said, "No transmission date at present but as a Colin Firth fan I will be watching out for it." [no kidding] OK, now I'll go after the other lead... there's only so much rejection I can take from that bunch! ;-)

(Karen)"No transmission date at present but as a Colin Firth fan I will be watching out for it." [no kidding] Nice goin' Karen...but how about recruiting that girl for Drool :-D

I am told that IBM is circulating the following virus alert: If you receive an email titled "It Takes Guts to Say Jesus" DO NOT OPEN IT. It will erase everything on your hard drive, and there is no remedy for it. Beware. Let others know - just in case.

I have to apologize to Karen for something that I did this afternoon. I will never post another URL. That way I will not get into trouble.

Just to say briefly that some of this week's TV magazines are be previewing the Christmas programmes. TOTS seems to be up against the Big Film (ie Tom Cruise "Mission Impossible") at 9.00pm, not David Copperfield (Part 2) which shows at 6.30. Lots of promotional stuff (interviews with actors) for David Copperfield. Zilch (so far)for TOTS, but it is definitely being used as ITV's "big gun" for the Xmas period. Just says "with Colin Firth". Marked as one to watch. I think that DC was produced with a view to capturing the Xmas market, whereas TOTS wasn't. ITV are using CF's name. In a way, this is complimentary, but I think a lot of people will expect to see him in the lead! DQ...thanks for trying Karen. I think this will definitely be heading for a theatrical release, otherwise they would have scheduled it by now. But it will also be shown on TV. I noticed that Bertolucci's "Beseiged", which was a BBC Film, and was shown in the summer in the UK cinema, was on TV over the weekend. I watched part of it because it featured a relationship between an Englishman and an African (and got very good reviews). I thought the opening shots in "Africa" were most unconvincing, and the acti n was slow and ponderous. But if actors do serious roles, and the director is well known, they are automatically taken seriously. Light romantic comedy is often dismissed by critics (CF take note!). Call me shallow, but I actually preferred SLOW...I thought the central relationship was more convincing, but unfortunately it didn't have the Bertolucci imprimatur!

Bethan, the BBC Scotland respondent (also fan of...) has said she will let know as soon as she hears anything. Evelyn said I should steer her to Spring! ;-) I've also sent something off to someone with the production. Maybe I'll hear back, maybe I won't. :-( About Beseiged, that was Thandie Newton (from Beloved), and the film did not get good reviews here. I remember Ebert and another woman talking about it from Cannes and they disliked it immensely. Don't think it played hardly anywhere here. Winter has seen it as I recall and she liked it a lot or so she posted elsewhere.

(Bethan), TOTS seems to be up against the Big Film (ie Tom Cruise "Mission Impossible") at 9.00pm,Just says "with Colin Firth". ITV are using CF's name. In a way, this is complimentary, but I think a lot of people will expect to see him in the lead! I wonder if people will complain. We know he has only 10 minutes, but the regular audience will probably sit there waiting to see Colin again. It is bad luck to be matched up against "Mission Impossible". What day is TOTS going to be shown? We are relying on snappies taken from the TV. ;-D Will be waiting for your report. Don Q, I thank you for trying, Karen.

ITV are using CF's name. In a way, this is complimentary, but I think a lot of people will expect to see him in the lead! I don't think it's complimentary...I think it's exploitation of Colin's name.. What's more, this is v. disingenuous of ITV to do that. And will only cause disenchantment among the fans who will expect to see him for more than ten minutes.

Carrying on the discussion of Oscar nominations from Odds and Ends, now I've forgotten all the postings I was going to refer to, but someone said that Geoffrey Clifton was a scene stealer, and I completely agree. And someone said a couple of weeks ago, talking about scenes they always cut when trying to make room for commercials, that the great scene in the cab was what drove the whole action--impels the plane crash which leads to the cave, etc. And it's his brilliance in that and his convincingness (is that a word?) as a loving husband that makes the story a tragedy (and incidentally I believe what drove people to say why would KST leave CF for RF0--wasn't believable). And for that I think he should have gotten a nomination. Also--saw Ebert review TEOTA this evening. Thumbs down from him though not from his guest (I think I'm remembering correctly) Anyhow, biased though I may be and condensed though the clips were, I just don't find RF attractive and therefore convincing. Firthette rule #1 was in full play as I watched it.

There is a very small picture of Colin in TTOTS in the Xmas Edition of "What's on TV", with P.F. and the two children. I will try and get a copy but not everyone is selling the 18th-31st Dec. copy yet. I should have bought it yesterday but was in a hurry!! (his hair is quite long and he is standing Darcy pose with his hands crossed behind his back) Re DQ, I am a bit concerned about ever seeing DQ, as if you go to the BBC Scotland website and scroll down to all the dramas they have upcoming, none of them have as yet been seen on our screens, and many have household names in them. Now if Robson Green was to make a drama, it would be on our screens six months later. Oh stop it Ann!!

Evelyn, I agree with you entirely...."exploitational" is the more appropriate word! I've just returned from and early morning visit to get milk (son has returned from uni with 6 friends!) and noticed that the new Christmas TV mags now have hit the stands. Barely had a chance to browse, but Radio Times says that TOTS is a terrific adaptation, mentions CF, and says that the governess may be in a state of sexual frenzy brought on by her flirtatious attraction to the Master. TV Times is more honest and says that "Sadly we only get a glimpse of CF as the charismatic Master". Only pic is of Pam Ferris and Jodhi May (which should strike readers as odd...why no pic of the "star"?. Oh well, maybe it will provoke an outburst of "why can't CF be offered bigger/better parts!" I think a lot of viewers (who don't have access to the Internet!) will be puzzled to see him in a cameo, after playing Darcy. On better roles...."The end of the Affair"...I must admit when I read about the casting of this, it gave me quite a pang...two potentially marvellous roles, the lover (inevitably RF) and the sympathetic cuckolded husband. For once, I wouldn't have minded if CF had played the cuckold. I would like to see CF cast in a role where he can express real depth of feeling! Having said this, I caught a glimpse of a preview of TEOTA on CNN, and wasn't overly impressed by the clips or the love scene....very artifici l. Seemed to be a lot of emphasis by the commentator on the fact there is nudity (is this the way they sell movies nowadays?. (BTW no nudity in SLOW..he seems to prefer to keep his clothes on!) But CF deserves a leading role in a prominent film or major TV drama!!!

Don't despair Ann, we'll definitely see DQ. It's just that a theatrical release (why?) always seems the preferred option. And Aaargh!!! Having mentioned TEOTA, I open the Times, and there's a big feature on it. I've only just got over a surfeit of "Onegin"!! Let's hope 2000 sees CF in a serious dramatic lead role on screen (can't always go to RF, surely?):-)

Let's hope 2000 sees CF in a serious dramatic lead role on screen (can't always go to RF, surely?):-) And he just won Best European Actor, I am sure those parts will still be going his way. I am only hoping that his commitment to do theatre will leave some of them open for Colin. :-) (Bethan), Radio Times says that TOTS is a terrific adaptation, mentions CF, and says that the governess may be in a state of sexual frenzy brought on by her flirtatious attraction to the Master. And it only lasts for 10 minutes! (Ann), (his hair is quite long and he is standing Darcy pose with his hands crossed behind his back) I hope we can see it very soon.

(Ann) his hair is quite long As long as in Valmont or more shoulder length? Can't wait to see the pic. The listing at BBC Scotland is a relatively *new* listing (as of mid-November), which surprised me also and prompted me to contact them again. I do think they are still trying for a theatrical release, especially after the nice review from Cork. Bethan, you asked "why"? More money of course - a better return potentially for BBC Scotland on its investment.

For anyone with a scanner (and who can use a scanner) (Arami?) there's a good pic of CF as The Master in the Xmas issue of TV Quick, page 10. (Can send copy if needed) He looks just like Darcy, dark curly hair, sideboards, dark jacket, silk waistcoat with watch fob, white shirt which looks opened necked (no tie), grey flannel trousers. Quote.."The young governess is also quite taken with her new employer Colin Firth (aren't we all?)" I could see nothing really worth watching in the Xmas programme (apart from TOTS!). "Mission Impossible" is without a doubt the BBC's Big Film, and TOTS is pitted directly against it. Moon, I read about the European awards. Catherine Z-J got Best actress (People's award) for Entrapment and Ray Winstone and Rupert Everett(AIH) were the other nominees, I think, for Best Actor.

FYI, about the European awards. There were the Best Actor and Best Actress awards (Fiennes and actress from "All About My Mother") and then there were the People's awards (Connery and Zeta-Jones), in which the public got to vote, a measure of popularity with movie-going public.

I think ITV should hear our comments about giving Colin a cameo-plus role in TTOTS, and then touting him as the star. (Hey, that's only eight minutes more than Secret Garden!). Why can't we email them and request a bonafide starring role for ODB. Does anybody have that email? These channels with commercials listen to their viewers. We can tell them that BBC is producing DQ. ~~~~~~~

Also a quote about/from CF in Radio Times on TOTS..."CF makes a welcome return to costume drama, starring (!!) in TOTS" Then he comments something along the lines of liking ghost stories.."they're perfect for wintry evenings..create a sense of chill and provoke the imagination". There's a cartoon of CF as The Master. Didn't buy a copy.

the governess may be in a state of sexual frenzy brought on by her flirtatious attraction to the Master. All right. Confess! Which one of us playing the role under a nom du theatre? welcome return to costume drama Welcome to whom? Wouldn't it be nice if they could say ... a welcome return to a lead role in a meaty drama with plenty of scope both for his comic talents and his highly expressive dramatic ability. And finally, who knows what his next projects will be? Someone said all his films are off the shelf, in one way or another, and 3DOR will be over in a few weeks. What's waiting in the wings? Is he contemplating a nice long dramatic piece involving many interior and exterior scenes all set in the same small northern Virginia town and for which an unknown local woman of a certain age is needed as the perfect foil to his role as handsome British immigrant seeking the kind of really satisfying mature relat onship that only an older woman can provide? Sounds like a screenplay to me.

Bethan, that must have been the picture I say of The Master, are his hands behind his back and is there an awful picture of PF , sorry Pam but it really is awful!!(I get confused between TV Quick & What's On TV). On the other hand I don't think my picutre was near the front so perhaps it is What's On - anybody following this?

(Cymbeline) Carrying on the discussion of Oscar nominations from Odds and Ends, now I've forgotten all the postings I was going to refer to, but someone said that Geoffrey Clifton was a scene stealer, and I completely agree. I thought Colin was excellent as Geoffrey but it was not an Oscar-worthy role. Face it, ODB doesn't have enough clout in tinsel town to receive a nod for such a small part. He's not even mentioned in the TNT English Patient ads! It certainly is misrepresentation for ITV to tout Colin as the star of TOTS but I find myself enjoying it nonetheless. I'd love to see any pictures (especially that cartoon) if it's at all possible. Thanks.

Bethan, that must have been the picture I say of The Master, are his hands behind his back and is there an awful picture of PF No, this is a different photo. He's standing behind Jodhi May, who is seated on a plush looking chair.He has his hands in his pockets and is staring at her. There are gilt framed paintings on the wall behind him. If you have the book "The making of Pride and Prejudice," he looks just like Mr Darcy on page 104 (without the high collar). Same colour waistcoat. So, who needs a scanner? :-) As I said I'll gladly post the pic to any expert scanner. Elder Son has gone away with friends, otherwise I would ask him to talk me through the whole process of scanning, It's about time I mastered it! Eileen, the cartoon wasn't very recognisable..emphasises the line of his jaw and the sideboards. It certainly is misrepresentation for ITV to tout Colin as the star of TOTS It's all part of the ratings battle. It's probably just not the same in the US where you have so many channels, but for most people in the UK, the choice for Christmas viewing (if you haven't very sensibly switched off!!)is still between BBC and ITV. And the figures are always published as though it's a contest. Colin (and his cameo appearance) is up against the might of Tom Cruise and Mission Impossible, and it will no doubt be reported in terms of Darcy v. Hollywood megastar. And the bonuses of ITV exe utives will partly depend on the outcome! Although I must say that Pam Ferris and Jodhi May are both very good actors, and there's a first class production team involved, so it doesn't all hinge on CF.

Thanks Bethan, I had better take a look at TV Quick tomorrow, then.

Hmmm, page 104 you say...nice ;-) Arami, how long does it take to go to the store and buy those magazines? We're waiting. (Ann) but for most people in the UK, the choice for Christmas viewing...is still between BBC and ITV. And the figures are always published as though it's a contest. Colin (and his cameo appearance) is up against the might of Tom Cruise and Mission Impossible, and it will no doubt be reported in terms of Darcy v. Hollywood megastar. Sorry, but I don't see the draw for Mission Impossible. Running a movie (of dubious popularity) on television against original programming shouldn't be feared. I saw Mission Impossible once. Never had any desire to see it again, on television or on tape. Everyone has seen MI. Event programming would be showing Titanic. People can watch that one over and over again...

there's a good pic of CF as The Master in the Xmas issue of TV Quick I'll scan all these pics tomorrow.

Good gal! Thanks!

Mission Impossible was a terible movie IMHO. I am not a Tom Cruse fan, I dont think he can act worth diddely squat.

I second that, Lucie, very over-rated, IMO.

Today I heard the results of survey of who is the actor with whom you would most like to spend New Year's Eve. The winner was -- Tom Cruise. Yeah, I know, tell me about it. Now of course I know who would be the winner among the members on this list. But some of us might get trampled in the rush to kiss CF at midnight.

I agree with Karen that Mission Impossible should pose no threat at all to TTOTS. It's been out on video for who knows how long-- must be at least a year. Anyone who hasn't seen it by now probably has no interest in doing so. RE: Tom Cruise. I've enjoyed him in a number of films, such as Born On The Fourth Of July, The Color Of Money, Interview With the Vampire, Rain Man, Jerry Maguire, Eyes Wide Shut. He's more than held his own, IMO, in a wide variety of things, with top-notch directors, cast, etc. I think people sometimes discount him because of his looks. Sort of like when CF gets dismissed as a heart-throb in a wet shirt.;-)

(CherylB) Now of course I know who would be the winner among the members on this list. But some of us might get trampled in the rush to kiss CF at midnight. I consider you my friends, but I'm sorry. In a case like this it's every woman for herself. You won't find me at the bottom of that pile. ;-)

(Cymbeline) that the great scene in the cab was what drove the whole action--impels the plane crash which leads to the cave, etc. And it's his brilliance in that and his convincingness (is that a word?) as a loving husband that makes the story a tragedy. And for that I think he should have gotten a nomination. He was utterly divine and a better example of silent anguish would be hard to find. IMO though his role was too small for consideration. If he were very famous or if he did that car scene tearing up the seat and foaming at the mouth, perhaps he would have had a chance. (Yes, I'm kidding 'cause I know we're glad he did it the way he did.) Is it just me or does it seem very dry in here? I'll bet a picture or two of the Master will create a little welcome precipitation.

For anyone who cares to direct her comment to ITV re: the Dearth of Firth in TTOTS .. http://www.itv.co.uk/site.php3 I asked them to make amends and acquire a project with a suitable starring role.

Has anyone else had a problen getting votes registered at Lady Viola's booth today? I keep getting the sign that they are busy and reload but reload just gets the same thing. The count is the same as when I went to bed last night.

Let's not forget, little Tommy Boy has not only been nominated, he's had several roles where many people thought he should. I'm getting the feeling that he and Nicole are doing the big budget films just to finance other projects of their own. Also, Cruise approached the makers of Magnolia and wanted to appear in it for nothing. OK, back to our boy: Here's the picture Bethan mentioned from the "Making of Book" while we wait for the new TTOTS glimpses:

Here's a quotation from Wings of Fame that seems to illustrate just what we've all been talking about. For those who haven't seen it, be warned--I suppose it qualifies as a spoiler, but I don't want to put it on the spoiler topic b/c it fits here. For those of you who have seen it, you remember that ODB reads this. But for one who wants to become a good actor discipline, sensitivity, intelligence, and good looks are not enough. In order to become a really great actor, you have to be born one. But it does not necessarily follow that an excellent actor is also a famous one. In order to be a star you have to have an audience of millions. I'm sure all of us here agree that ODB possesses the first four requisites in full measure. There cannot be two opinions on that subject. And I imagine that we all also agree that he was born to be a really great actor. His early work confirms that. When P&P was released, he gained the audience of millions and became a star, but since then he has been moved about a bit from the luxurious second floor to other less satisfactory accommodations--so fleeting is fame. Now why is it that TC and old Kevin C stner make dogs but continue to be superstars? One reason, which they have in common with RF if I understand Onegin's origins correctly, is that they make their own movies, at least sometimes. This CF doesn't do; he is dependent on what the market sends to him. Segue to a repeat of my earlier question. Those of you with fingers on the pulse, what are the next projects? Anyone know anything?

Sorry not to have been running to the newsagents to pick up copies of TV guides and pictures of CF. I do have a scanner but I also have a slipped disc! Groan! Great timing, just before Christmas. In spite of my comments on #126, I had also planned another trip to SLOW. I thought it might improve on further acquaintance. But alas.

You poor thing Allison, as you say not very good timing, hope it soon gets better. However, it sounds as if we shall soon be able to buy the video of SLOW. Lucie, The Voting Booth seems to be working again today, Mari, as you suggested I havde written to ITV, did you mention anything about the Flashman Series, I still live in hope. re TC, I'm sorry but I hated EWS, my hubby and I have never been so bored and it just went on and on.

Ann - EWS? I'm a bit slow this morning, but I can't make any association here.

(Cymbeline), TC and old Kevin Costner make dogs but continue to be superstars? One reason, which they have in common with RF if I understand Onegin's origins correctly, is that they make their own movies, at least sometimes. This CF doesn't do; he is dependent on what the market sends to him. I have stated repeatedly, that Colin should search out his own projects and buy the rights. I guess the money went to the new house. Allison, I hope you get well soon! EWS= Eyes Wide Shut, the Kubrick film.

Sorry to hear about your back, Allison. Rest and take those pain pills. As Ann said, you'll get SLOW on video soon enough and can rewind to your heart's content. ;-)

(Cymbeline) he is dependent on what the market sends to him. Or what he seeks out, auditions for, accepts...better not rely on just what they send you. ~~~~~ Bummer about your back, Allison, :-( Can you still watch Colin vids...?

(Bethan) Eileen, the cartoon wasn't very recognisable..emphasises the line of his jaw and the sideboards. I'd like to see it anyway. Don't think I've seen a cartoon of ODB before. It certainly is misrepresentation for ITV to tout Colin as the star of TOTS (Bethan) It's all part of the ratings battle. Goes without saying. It's probably just not the same in the US where you have so many channels It's not the same in the US...it's worse. I'd wager the ITV execs learned their programming strategies over here! Cymbeline, I don't think there's been any recent intelligence on Colin's post-Donmar projects. Hope you're feeling better, Allison. The new treatment plan for back ailments is as follows: 1. bedrest with a pillow under knees 2. anti-inflammatory and pain medication 3. heat pad as tolerated 4. watch CF videos one after another until symptoms abate. There! All better :-)

Another deer told me to post this here ;-) http://firth.com/tots/tots1.htm

There! All better :-) Thank you all for your good wishes and helpful hints. I have found lying on the floor (firm mattress!) and watching Tumbledown good therapy. Watching ODB writhing in agony quite takes my mind off my own small aches and pains;-)

Oh, Renate! More therapy! Wonderful. Thanks for posting the TTOTS picture. And are thanks due to Arami too?

It was intentional, it was intentional. All for suspense. ;-) Allison, wish you to get better soon.

MOSTLY due to Arami. She scanned it in a hurry, and sent it to me to load it up, but I have no idea from which publication this is, and I hope my guess that the woman is Jodhi May was correct. Allison - did the therapy work already? ;-) Do you hear him whisper behind you "Is there anything I can to do relieve your suffering?"

(Cymbeline)But it does not necessarily follow that an excellent actor is also a famous one. In order to be a star you have to have an audience of millions. Exactly, ODB is an excellent actor but not as a famous as those stars. I'd like to add to that last sentence, in order to be a star you have to have some kind of luck. How many stars get their overnight fame just because one great film? So I'd say that it does not necessarily follow that a star is also an excellent actor. Thanks Renate, I love the picture!

Renate and Arami, thank you! Did you notice the twinkle, twinkle little stars behind him? "Is the lookout he's behind you" part of the ad? He looks so pensive, and a bit worried. I can not wait to hear your reports on TOTS.

You know, I like Jodhi May. She was fantastic in this British American miniseries where she was in a cult. Prunella Scales was her father and David Warner was her father. James Earl Jones played a deprogrammer. It was excellent and she was very good. She may do well as the governess. I watched the Innocents (based on TOTS) with my daughter, the movie before that was The Ghost and Mrs Muir. I hadn't seen the Innocents and WOW, what a creepy movie! Even Rebecca (desensitized at a young age *sigh*), as creeped out and slept with me... well she still is;)

MOSTLY due to Arami. She scanned it in a hurry, and sent it to me to load it up, but I have no idea from which publication this is, and I hope my guess that the woman is Jodhi May was correct. Allison - did the therapy work already? ;-) Do you hear him whisper behind you "Is there anything I can to do relieve your suffering?"

"*#%X*$�&#!!!" Had I ever learned......

Thanks 3 Deers for the picture....Breathtaking. But I bet that's the only suit he wears. ~~~~ "This pospective patron proved a gentleman, a bachelor in the prime of life,such a figure as had never risen, save in a dream or an old novel, before a fluttered , anxious girl out of a Hampshire vicarage....He was handsome and bold and pleasant, off-handed and gay and kind. He struck her, inevitably as gallant and splendid, but what took her most of all and gave her the courage she afterwards showed was that he put the whole thing to her as a favour an obligation he should gratefully incur. She figured him as rich, ...saw him all in a glow of high fashion, of good looks, of expensive habits, of charming ways with women...." TTOTS...Henry James Of course Nick Dear's script might be different.

Thanks Renate & Arami, is it my imagination or does he seem to have a lot of hair and sideburns!!

Thanks Arami and Renate for the TOTS treat. He is mentioned in TV Times ,"an all too brief glimpse" ??--- will check that, and of the two photos featured, it comes as no surprise to see they are "Masterless". Allison, imagine the very gentlest and restoring of back massages and those exquisite digits----- you should be feeling better already! Take care.

Do we think he is sporting a hair extension? Maybe Gi has been secretly working on him!! Evelyn, you have some great theories on this subject!

Let's see'm side by side: Isn't this one from TV Quick? Hands are in pocket, not behind the back. And didn't you say, Ann, that the one from What's on TV, had the kids in it as well?

Aha!! Hair is parted to other side and sideburns might be longer. Thanks Arami and Renate for getting this put up so quickly.

Karen. .. from What's On TV had the kids in it as well Yes that's right Karen, but its not a very good picture of Colin, he is in the background, its certainly not as good as the TV quick picture and the children arn't very clear. Talking of children, the young lad who plays Oliver Twist in Alan Bleasdale's adaption which is on TV at the moment, is excellent and if Oliver Twist comes to the US, I highly recommend it. I am sorry I can't say the same for W&D.

Aha! That's it...the very photo. Excellent team work, Renate and Arami! Allison, so sorry to hear about the slipped disc. Back problems are a nightmare...but they do go away, and normal life resumes. Are your movements very restricted at the moment? On SLOW...one way to guarantee that you will enjoy it (although admittedly not possible for you at the moment!)...get up at 5am, travel to London for exhausting all day seminar, give highly nerve-racking Power-Point presentation, sneak out 15 minutes early, rush to tube, get lost, arrive at cinema totally frazzled, gaze at gorgeous dimpled man looking completely gorgeous throughout movie, don't concentrate too much on the "plot" or fret about why he's not going to get a BAFTA, or why RF gets all the best oles, just sit back, relax and go with the picuresque and undemanding flow....:-) I have stated repeatedly, that Colin should search out his own projects and buy the rights. I guess the money went to the new house. (Moon) Moon, I just don't think Colin is in the right Big Money league for this. For example the rights to NH's "About a Boy" went (to Robert de Niro) for �1.25million. CF hasn't made it into Hollywood, nor does he have a lucrative TV contract, and I wouldn't think that any of his post P&P projects have been big earners...he'll be out of pocket after 3DOR, BBC Scotland only pay jobbing actor rates, and I remember reading that the budget for all salaries (cast and crew) for MLSF was �300,000....a weekly pay check for a Megastar! But I agree, actors with financial clout and bankability can control their own careers, rather than take what is offered. Cymbeline, you're quite right about the different levels of stardom. I guess (as must be perfectly obvious from my frequent tetchy comments) that I'd love CF to be up there with RF...to have his multi-million bankability, choice of leading roles, career flexibilty and unassailable reputation (despite a certain major turkey)!! Well, you never know! As to what's next for CF...well, I hope that 3DOR may remind some well-known directors/producers that he can act! Laura, I agree, Jodhi May is a very good actress...she was impressive in "The Last of the Mohicans"

(Moon) Did you notice the twinkle, twinkle little stars behind him? Sure did. Meant to mirror the stars in our eyes when we see ODB, I suppose. Oh, but the hair! Neither the top or the sides look real. Too pouffy! I'm sure Gi would have given him a more natural look. Sure hope he doesn't look so "permed" throughout his 10 minutes. But I bet that's the only suit he wears. LOL, Evelyn. Thanks, Renate and Arami for the peek.

I'll see if I can do some more scanning tomorrow, I had to go out this evening and had no time to do more. Though that cartoon is not very good imo. ODB is an excellent actor but not as a famous as those stars Don't forget that he said that wanting to be famous equals being deranged... and he craves normalcy in his life... if Oliver Twist comes to the US, I highly recommend it... I can't say the same for W&D. Oliver Twist According To Bleasdale has already been criticized for a variety of inconsistencies and puzzling details... Bleasdale takes some liberties which may not matter so much if one doesn't know one's Dickens... The production (acting, costumes, scenery) is very good indeed. W&D is also produced breathtakingly well, it has an air of P&P Revisited in that one imagines that Pemberley and its inhabitants must be somewhere not far away (after all, the time difference is only about 30 years on)... but I'm still waiting for anything in the story to grab and shake me - either by the throat or by the heart. It also lacks the sort of irony and sharp wit which we know from Jane Austen's prose and especially her wonderful, juicy dialogues. It's all very pedestrian and mundane... Quite atchable if you like that period, but don't expect fireworks. And worst of all, not one dark, handsome and mysterious bloke to clap your eyes on. ;-)

That should be "watchable". And another thing - good dancing scenes! It seems that they used the same dance group as in P&P, I think I recognized a few "background" people from the Netherfield ball. Still another observation: P&P was criticized (lightly ;-)...) for using too much light in "after dark" interior scenes: this production is visibly better lit, the interiors are suitably darker.

high fashion, of good looks, of expensive habits, of charming ways with women... Yum! Yum! But is his hair dark again? I wish they'd play him as the red head he is. I love his coloring.

Jodhi May is a very good actress. But she sure is ugly.No couch-casting there.

(Bethan), Moon, I just don't think Colin is in the right Big Money league for this. For example the rights to NH's "About a Boy" went (to Robert de Niro) for �1.25million. I do not expect Colin to afford to spend so much. There are lots of books by new writers, or unknown writers that might have something for him. He has to be on the lookout. The rights to some stories are affordable. I read a book two years ago called The Reader by a German writer and there are others out there. Colin should put some time and money into developing a project. It is about time!

Jodhi May is a very good actress. But she sure is ugly.No couch-casting there. ] Oh I don't think she's ugly. Plain looking in the Jane Eyre sense, but she looked quite beautiful in The Last of the Mohicans. I forgot about that one! She was great in that. So sad though;( I hope we get TOTS here! I like creepy (just not slice & dice)!

Laura, Masterpiece Theatre will be showing TOTS in April, most likely.

Laura, Masterpiece Theatre will be showing TOTS in April, most likely. ] Woohoo! Now all I need is cable so I have decent reception! Oh just thinking about it is giving me the wiggins! Those evil children. Who are playing the children? Just stock British children? Has any Americans bought the DVD Shakes in Love? Wanna know if it's decent to buy? (don't have DVD player, but am thinking of buying one in 2000). I've only seen Shakes in Love once! Haven't even rented it! Bad Laura! I think my daughter would like it. Except for that one scene, I don't think there's anything else that is bad in it. Well, just an update on the Laura front, still dealing with Mono, but getting progressively better. Outlook on life is better too! Yeah. (strange tho as it's the holiday season which instantaneously depresses me!) So to all Happy Holidays and Y2K bug it's a big bust! :) Happy Colin Firth viewing, like I do every Christmas Eve, I wrap, drink wine and watch all six hours of P&P! (have been doing that for the past three years now!)

Sorry to hear about your back Allison. I know how painful a bad back can be. How did you slip your disk anyhow. Maybe you can get some help from Larry Bird, a bad back is what took him out of basketball.

From a friend who is happy to share: MLSF is now playing in Richmond, Virginia. Also now in Raleigh, North Carolina. Was in Durham and Chapel Hill last week; not sure if it's still there.

Oh, there's one lucky lady here!!! SLOW is playing at the Showcase in Bristol. And it's still at the ABC Panton St. and in Peckham from what I can see. Gone from Manchester.

(Heide) Oh, but the hair! Neither the top or the sides look real. Too pouffy! My thoughts, too. Perhaps it's due to some shadowing (particularly the top). (Bethan) Jodhi May is a very good actress...she was impressive in "The Last of the Mohicans" Ah, yes, the movie that gave new meaning to the phrases "watch that last step, it's a killer" and "eat your heart out." She's not ugly, Evelyn. I expect 'Miss' won't be a flattering (looks-wise) role, though. (Mari) MLSF is now playing in Richmond, Virginia... I see the wagon train has made it back to the east coast--closer to GB, Ann! In a few months, go to the seaside and look for bottles with film inside. I understand the Atlantic tide is very strong this time of year :-P

Bethan, was it you who would like to see Colin in the forthcoming film Enigma, well I don't think it is going to happen as according to Baz Bambigoyne in The Daily Mail, Dougray Scott has been cast for the role.

Baz Bambigoyne in The Daily Mail, Dougray Scott has been cast for the role. He's hot. Saw him in "This Year's Love"...couldn't understand a word he said. (Eileen)She's not ugly, Evelyn. I expect 'Miss' won't be a flattering (looks-wise) role, though. You mean she was cast for the role because of her "unflattering looks"?

(Heavy Evie) You mean she was cast for the role because of her "unflattering looks"? No. But they won't go out of their way to doll her up either. I haven't seen her in anything but Last of the Mohicans, in which she played terrified very well. Seems to suit this role. Have a nice weekend! Nileee ;-P

Hi everyone! I just realized that today... I think... is my "I met Colin Firth" anniversary!

Congrats, Winter!! And MANY happy returns!! ;-D

(Heide) Oh, but the hair! Neither the top or the sides look real. Too pouffy! My thoughts, too. Perhaps it's due to some shadowing (particularly the top). In the original photo in the magazine, there's a lot of dark shadowing and blurring of edges. Jodhi May's hair is naturally fairish, but looks dark here. Ditto, perhaps Colin. W&D...Quite watchable if you like that period, but don't expect fireworks. And worst of all, not one dark, handsome and mysterious bloke to clap your eyes on. (Arami) Apparently Sue Birtwhistle and Andrew Davies had carte blanche from the BBC to choose and adapt whatever they wanted....I was a bit disappointed that they couldn't find something to accommodate a dark (well, auburn!)handsome bloke. I agree with you and Ann about "Oliver Twist" though...and without reservation I think CF should be aiming for major roles in good TV drama. Forget small British films...definitely not the way forward! Mark Darcy is OK though (Sales for the BJ sequel have reached �1million in 3 weeks) Colin should put some time and money into developing a project. It is about time! (Moon) Even if he could afford the rights for some unknown work, the next stage...getting financial backing...is very difficult. RF got �10 million from a US backer for "Onegin" on the strength of his Oscar nom for TEP. So far "Onegin" has made �350,000 in the UK, and after 2 weeks is not showing north of Birmingham. It's a very tough market even when you get the financial backing. But I'd like to see Colin networking...Alan Yentob, for starters! SLOW is playing at the Showcase in Bristol. And it's still at the ABC Panton St. and in Peckham from what I can see. (Karen) Hey, it's made it into the third week in London! I rang Optimim to ask if it was still showing, and they said in London, Bristol and Manchester! I think there are literally only three prints, which hopefully may work their way round the country! In a few months, go to the seaside and look for bottles with film (MLSF) inside. I understand the Atlantic tide is very strong this time of year :-P (Eileen) LOL! It's showing in Newfoundland and somewhere called L... Valley (forget the name) over Christmas. If only Harvey had forked out for a few more prints we might have seen it earlier! Bethan, was it you who would like to see Colin in the forthcoming film Enigma (Ann) I was keen because of the Tom Stoppard script, but the last adaptation of a novel by Robert Harris -"Fatherland"- was a flop (no theatrical release) and "Enigma" is mostly about code breaking by Cambridge academics, interesting (sometimes)to read, but not very riveting on screen perhaps. Robert Harris is Nick Hornby's brother-in-law (networking!)But it's a decent, serious lead role. Hmmm.

I rang Optimim to ask if it was still showing, and they said in London, Bristol and Manchester! I think there are literally only three prints, which hopefully may work their way round the country! Keep us posted, there's a good gal, huh? :-) Ta!

And here's the cartoon: http://www.firth.com/tots/totscartoon.htm or, if I succeed, here's the pic: That's why *I* call ugly No similarity whatsoever.

Now, that's what I call pouffy hair! ;-) No similarity whatsoever. Yeah, they missed the dimples.

But he's not smiling here. Do the dimples show all the time, then? Wouldn't that mean he's puffy as well?

I remember Johdi May from a film called "A World Apart" with Barbara Hershey and Yvonne Briceland. The movie was set in South Africa in the early '60's and was about the anti-apartied journalist Ruth First (played by Hershey). Johdi May was cast as her daughter; she was something like 14 at the time and was great. I don't really have a problem with the way she looks. She looks like a real person, which is really refreshing. And even better she is an atonishingly good actress. I'd much rather go the movies and see an average looking really fine actor/actress than some model that is more wooden than a redwood. As for "The Turn of the Screw", it is arguably the finest ghost story written in the English language. It's also pretty readable for Henry James. Don't get me wrong James deserves his reputation as a great writer, but his prose can be dense and difficult, albeit highly rewarding. The literary critic Hortense Calisher wrote, "Henry James never for one minute underestimated the intelligence of his readers and some people have never forgiven him for it." I hope the new adaptation is good. Although I'm not expecting it to be as good as "The Innocents", that film along with the oringinal "The Haunting", is one of the scariest movies I've ever seen. If the new one is comparable I'll be pleasantly surprised. I've always thought that CF would be quite adept at -- and suitable for -- Henry James adaptations.

Thanks for posting the cartoon, Renate! The hair is definitely overdone, but still, there is something there. (Tineke, looks like that look-a-like at Luna Nuova. ;-)

Renate: May I put it on my page? I love it! The nose is right. He has a very strong turned down nose, and the hair is good. No dimples, but then he was talking serious stuff to Jodhi -- trying to get her to accept a job where he knows strange things are happening. For those who loved the "Allen" look, thanks to Karen, I have a large version on my Londinium page -- HERE. Murph

The cartoon's a scream. I want it framed! Thanks for posting, Renate.