Thanks for the Londinium update, Karen and Murph! So, it's official, Edward does get Heloise in the end! Allen looks very cute! I'd love to tighten his tie and straighten his jacket He seems to be back in baggy trousers though ...maybe it's the proper Englishman look. :-) I can see why CF related to this script (definitely a newly-wed choice)..."Fiona is offered work in Rome which requires Allen to part with his beloved England to follow her". :-) BTW what happens in the hotel, where "culmination of the criss-cross affair takes place in a 'proper English fashion"? Partner swapping over tea and muffins? I'm hoping "Londinium" will be okay....I really like the fact that MB wants to bring out the hidden beauty of London (often presented as dreary unattractively on film). BTW, Karen,who gave the movie that glowing review...any disinterested parties, or just people like Mike Binder's agent, friends, mum etc? Have posted a snippet of news about BJD at #80. The movie seems set to start in March. TOTS....apparently Channel 4 are showing "The Innocents" on the same day. SLOW....Arami, the best way of checking SLOW's progress is to check the Movie listings for your local Showcase at http://wwww.teletext.co.uk. This site (Movies/TV Plus) is an excellent source for news...it's where Ann got all her scoops! I've been reading Ann Bilson's subsequent reviews (She of SLOW "worst movie" fame). I wouldn't touch her ratings with a bargepole. She managed to like "Guest House Paradiso" which the Times called "celluloid toilet paper" and this week, having slated "The Last Yellow" (improvised by student actors, this film is the opposite of pleasure, central character unlikeable and nastily misogynist) she concludes " certainly not the worst British film of the year". SLOW had two charming performances at its heart ( a fact that even the less good reviews acknowledged), excellent cinematography, and was a genuine attempt to take a positive look at cross-cultural relationships, a few light years removed from "Guess who's comming to Dinner". I think Ann Bilson is an irresponsible reviewer...or at least she should sort out her worst movie category!!!

Done it again...sorry! Correction http://www.teletext.co.uk

(Bethan) BTW, Karen,who gave the movie that glowing review...any disinterested parties, or just people like Mike Binder's agent, friends, mum etc? People in the latter category. ;-) I'm pretty sure I mentioned that when I first reported the info Now, about Binder's mum... ;-)

Thanks to my son, I have just seen Colin on BBC TV in a Lifeline Survival Appeal, he seemed very nervous but very earnest. What a sweetie. For all UK fans who did not see it and wish to, it is being repeated on Wednesday, on BBC2 at 5.50pm.

What is Lifeline Survival? Presumably a charity connected with fundraising for refugees who are stranded in the UK? Or is it something different? Was he very nervous? Actually,that's something I admire in him...that he obviously finds these things difficult, but still does them. Shall certainly watch/video on Wednesday. Thanks Ann! Is your son connected with Lifeline? Allison, how are you managing with your slipped disc? I hope it's not too painful or incapacitating.

Here is the website for that organization. After you enter the site, you will see a selection (after all the drop-down menus) for a Richard Gere interview. Maybe there will be one from Colin? ;-) http://www.survival.org.uk/

Was he very nervous? Actually,that's something I admire in him...that he obviously finds these things difficult, but still does them What he evidently finds difficult is facing (strange) people/cameras as himself, not acting, not as someone else, not as a character he plays. Many actors are like that. Many refuse to face people outside professional engagements. In view of that, Colin patiently and generously meeting his fans in the foyer of the Donmar Theatre virtually every day after the performance is indeed very admirable (I believe he only missed one occasion?).

he seemed very nervous but very earnest. What a sweetie. Yes indeedy. Ann, was this live? Did anyone else see it (and tape it)?

I bought my Christmas cards from the Lifeline Survival Charity. Aishling told me they rescue people at sea.

(Bethan) Allen looks very cute! *sigh* I'd love to tighten his tie and straighten his jacket And I would like to do the opposite, ma subito!!! ;-P

Firstly Bethan, Mark has no connection with Lifeline, just saw it in the Radio Times, I think. Secondly I have taped it together with a little snippet from TTOTS which was advertised straight after Oliver Twist, " starring Pam Ferris, Colin Firth & Jodhi May", just a glimpse of Colin but he touches JM's hand, looks her in the eye and says "I will be forever in your debt..."

oh dear - Colin Firth and Jodhi May." Just a glimpse of Colin holding JM's hand , looking her straight in the eyes he says "I will be forever in your debt..." Oh boy!

I have just seen Colin on BBC TV in a Lifeline Survival Appeal Ann, tell us more about this appeal. Since it was a scheduled broadcast, I gather it was of significant length (vs. a short public service announcement). Who else was on it? How long was Colin's bit? What was his general thrust? (Karen) I'm pretty sure I mentioned that when I first reported the info That might have been in the steam room ;-) (Bethan) which the Times called "celluloid toilet paper" Yikes!

I've been using a new Search Engine at work http://www.google.com which seems to be very good. It threw up some interesting information on Flashman...or at leat confirmation thtat the project exists. Reference to a Teletext item September 1998. "Martin Clunes, Joe Fiennes, Sean Bean, Nigel Havers are being tipped as possibles to star in a multi-million pound TV version of the famouus Flashman books..to play the swashbuckling bed-hopper.An insider said it's likely to be a BBC production shot in Turkey this year and will be made by the team that made "Sharpe" and will rival "Hornblower". " "Sharpe" was made by Carlton, who always produce for ITV (Are they doing TTOTS?). So "Flashman" is definitely on...let's hope that Colin has taken over in the lead stakes!

"Martin Clunes, Joe Fiennes, Sean Bean, Nigel Havers are being tipped as possibles to star in a multi-million pound TV version of the famouus Flashman books"...let's hope that Colin has taken over in the lead stakes! Is that likely to happen? He is not listed with the contenders and we know how agfresive his agent is at pursuing roles for him.(ZZZZZ!) :-(

That should read aggresive. I would like to make a suggestion. We all make mistakes on the keyboard now and then, I know I am usually rushing when I type and submit quickly. We know when we read what the word or words should be. Let's not waste a message on this topic correcting ourselves. Thank you!

TTOTS was made by Meridian. That's an interesting list of "possibles" from 1998. Quite an age span from Joe Fiennes to Nigel Havers. Much as I've been enjoying the books (Flash for Freedom now), I don't want Colin in the role. I know you all are hoping for him to do more television (as it is more accessible), but Flashman gets him further and further away from consideration for the roles that the *other* Fiennes gets. I haven't totally given up hope.

Another one down the tubes... :-( � Pierce Brosnan is in talks to star in John Boorman's adaptation of John Le Carr�'s spy thriller, The Tailor of Panama, which Boorman will direct. Also on Boorman's wish list are Geoffrey Rush and Jamie Lee Curtis, but according to the studio, Columbia, no deals have been struck yet. So much for directors seeing him work.

Susan's question on 127 prompted me to go to the Albemarle site, where its 8 December update says this about 3DOR: ENTIRE RUN NOW SOLD OUT - returns and standing may be available by queuing at the theatre on the day.

( Karen), I know you all are hoping for him to do more television (as it is more accessible), but Flashman gets him further and further away from consideration for the roles that the *other* Fiennes gets. I haven't totally given up hope. Might that be the new James Bond? ;-) To know that JB has a wish list for TToP and Colin is not included is very disappointing. It looks like HF is the only one that really wants him for the BJD. So, what do you want for Christmas, Mr. Firth?

(Moon) Might that be the new James Bond? ;-) No and you know that has nothing to do with the character. ;-) To know that JB has a wish list for TToP and Colin is not included is very disappointing. Yes, as I've always said Colin is right for a serious role in a LeCarre film, although none have ever done well at the box office. I think the casting choices really reflect the studio's preferences. In the Variety blurb on the same news item, it said Columbia is really after these people. Brosnan, Rush and Curtis are all bankable.

So then JB calls up CF and says, "Sorry Colin, I tried for you, you were my first choice, bla, bla, bla...

Thanks for the Flashman info, Bethan. "Martin Clunes, Joe Fiennes, Sean Bean, Nigel Havers are being tipped as possibles Wrong, wrong, wrong! (Karen) I don't want Colin in the role. I know you all are hoping for him to do more television (as it is more accessible), but Flashman gets him further and further away from consideration for the roles that the *other* Fiennes gets I agree with you about this. But at the same time, I can't see anyone else in the role.

(Moon)So, what do you want for Christmas, Mr. Firth? An answer immediately made it to the tip of my tongue but I daren't! Only SB could get away with it ;-D

God, Clunes in contention, there's a depressing thought!! So something to cheer us "Secret Garden" is on over Xmas, ITV says Dec. 30th. Not having seen it before,can anyone confirm (and I am choosing my words very carefully here!) how big his part actually is? Much smaller than the Master's I fear.:~)

(Lizza)"Secret Garden" is on over Xmas, ITV says Dec. 30th. Not having seen it before,can anyone confirm (and I am choosing my words very carefully here!) how big his part actually is? Much smaller than the Master's I fear.:~) TWO WHOLE MINUTES, Lizza. And if ITV dares to say "starring CF" I'll spit! ~~~~~~ Agree with Karen about Flashman...he's getting farther away from being considered for serious roles...but does he care?

I'm off to set the vid. Dying to know the pattern of his tie!

TTOTS was made by Meridian. Interesting. Meridian made "Hornblower". They are also part owned by Carlton, who made "Sharpe" and who will (according to the 1998 Teletext report) be making "Flashman". What this proves, I don't know! CF is the only one with enough swash and buckie to play Flashman...and he's the only decent horseman! I didn't pay any attention to the list..it's old news...but I felt that it confirmed that there will be a Flashman series. I don't want Colin in the role. I know you all are hoping for him to do more television (as it is more accessible), but Flashman gets him further and further away from consideration for the roles that the *other* Fiennes gets. I haven't totally given up hope. (Karen) I think Flashman will be a good career move. The production values will be high and Flashman is a complex character, particularly as he gets older. It's not a shallow role. And good TV drama can be unbeatable...it has a different pace, a slower unfolding, which can be more satisfying. As you well know, I'd love to see him vying with RF(!!), but even at my most positive, I don't think he's got the bankability (yet!)that the major movie backers want. Interesting article in today's Guardian on how Brit movies aimed at the female audience are being killed off by hostile male reviewers/critics. "Fanny and Elvis" and "Mad Cows" are given as examples of films expected to do well, but which died because of critical panning (whereas male-oriented movies do well). Article says that television is the better medium for women, and also that women tend to ignore reviews and go on word of mouth recommendations. But most films only last one week in the mutiplexes a d therefore word of mouth is too slow. I'm off to set the vid. Dying to know the pattern of his tie! ((Lizza) LOL! And ditto. He's rarely seen as himself! BTW I think "The Secret Garden" is a later non CF version.

It is possible, of course, that the reverse applies and it's not that "they" don't want Colin, but perhaps Colin doesn't want "them". Wasn't he mentioned as a possible Flashman some time ago? Evidently he refused and is no longer included in the preliminaries. And maybe spy stories don't grab his imagination, either.

Evidently he refused Really, Arami? How do you know this? I am happy to see that DB has so many roles coming his way that he snubs spy stories.

Julie Andrews' malpractice lawsuit is in the news today, so there are references to Relative Values and a spring 2000 release. Also an item at BBC News about the Noel Coward Centenary, which says this: "Another was Relative Values and a film version of the play is to be released in early 2000 as part of the centenary events.[...] It stars Julie Andrews, Stephen Fry, Colin Firth and Denise Richards - latterly of 007's The World Is Not Enough." hee hee That's one way to get the kiddies to see it. Keep Denise Richards' name in it! ;-) (There's a picture of Stephen Fry next to blurb.) No mention of the gala Coward evening.

(Moon)So, what do you want for Christmas, Mr. Firth? (Gi)An answer immediately made it to the tip of my tongue but I daren't! Only SB could get away with it ;-D LOL! what? little innocent me? *hee hee*

Check out the Donmar Warehouse Holiday card I got in the mail. Himself representing the latest of their top 15 most important (I assume) productions of the 90's. The ones I can identify are Jane Horrocks in "Cabaret", Adrian Lester in "Company", Jim Broadbent in "Habeas Corpus", Zoe Wanamaker in "Electra", Gryff Rhys-Jones in "Front Page", Kidman in "Blue Room", Sophie Thompson in "Into the Woods", Charles Dance in "Good", JE and SD in "The Real Thing", Colm Meaney in "Juno...", and CF. Nice one! http://www.ultranet.com/~luvvy/images/donmar-card.jpg

(Chris L) Nice one! Nice indeed! And gratifying. Looks like a good pic; wish we could get a blowup of just that. Thanks for sending it on.

Love the card, Chris! Wonder if they sell them at the boxoffice? ;-) Top row, next to Adrian Lester, is I think Claire Skinner in The Glass Menagerie

Check out the Donmar Warehouse Holiday card I got in the mail. Himself representing the latest of their top 15 most important (I assume) productions of the 90's. The ones I can identify are Jane Horrocks in "Cabaret", Adrian Lester in "Company", Jim Broadbent in "Habeas Corpus", Zoe Wanamaker in "Electra", Gryff Rhys-Jones in "Front Page", Kidman in "Blue Room", Sophie Thompson in "Into the Woods", Charles Dance in "Good", JE and SD in "The Real Thing", Colm Meaney in "Juno...", and CF. Nice one! http://www.ultranet.com/~luvvy/images/donmar-card.jpg

Thanks for sharing, Chris. Was there a message inside the card?

Thanks for posting that link, Chris. Here's clarification about Flashman: last September, a source close to CF's agent (stop snickering) denied any knowledge of the project and that CF was signed to play the role. This followed the TV Times (I think that was the publication) announcement to the contrary made mid-August. Since the bit Bethan found is dated 1998, we can consider that old news. The project has probably been kicking around for awhile but it isn't clear how close to reality it is (somewhere between oblivion and the BJD film). There was never any report that he was offered the role and turned it down. (Karen) and Denise Richards - latterly of 007's The World Is Not Enough." Oops! Bet they heard from Jeanne Tripplehorn's agent.

a source close to CF's agent That would be Moon! Why didn't you clarify this, dear? ;-)

Moon, close to CF's agent? Wot, enough to strangle him? ;-)

A lady who attended 3DOR in November asked Colin afterwards if he planned on taking a long-earned rest after the play and he said something along the lines of "No, I don't know what I'll be doing, but it will be something". Maybe by the time we see him in January, he will know. And you thought I'd gone away ;-)

a source close to CF's agent ( Karen), That would be Moon! Why didn't you clarify this, dear? ;-) I would much rather be a source close to CF. ;-) Thank you for clearing that up, Eileen. I wondered what Arami might be talking about and I hope she let's us know. (Gi), Moon, close to CF's agent? Wot, enough to strangle him? ;-) Heehee.......

Thanks for that Cathey, its good to know he is not comtemplating another six month's rest!! BTW TTOTS is being previewed quite regularly on the TV with great emphasis on CF, there are going to be some very disappointed Firth fans who may be thinking that they will see their hero for the whole time 2hrs.

Bethan, did you get to see the Lifeline Appeal and btw Eileen Colin's Appeal was on behalf of the tribes of the Kalahari Desert who are being made to leave their land by the Botswana Government, land that is theirs by right. Have I got that right Bethan?

Thanks, Ann. So, Lizza, what did his tie look like? ;-D

Absolutely right! Just seen it and video taped it, Ann. I thought it was very thought-provoking, and I didn't think that Colin was at all nervous. He struck me as being composed, serious and professional. For those who didn't see it, it was a 10 minute slot and Colin spoke the commentary to the filmed shots of the tribesmen and their families (beautiful children) and made a direct appeal (appearing on screen four times). The intro stated "Colin Firth presents the case for tribal peoples worldwide". The specific example was of the Bushmen in the Kalahari desert, who are being forced to leave the land which they rightly own, by the Botswana Government who are interested in profits from tourism and diamond mining. The tribespeople are being re-located in inhumane camps, in terrible conditions, where children die from lack of food. Tribesmen who hunt are punished by torture. Survival supports cases like this and also many other instances of injustices against tribal peoples who want to preserve their way of life but are suppressed by exploitational governments. Survival also work to influence policies of organisations like the World Bank and the UN. CF's opening comments were "In today's industrial society, the rich diversity of culture and ways of life are being wiped out. Success is measured by the achievement of wealth and power. But millions of people do not want to be in a profit-driven consumer society, especially if their lands are taken away from them... He concludes "At this, the beginning of a new century, all of us who are lucky to live in freedom have the chance to help protect the basic human rights of the world's most vulnerable people... He then asks for donations to Survival (can be sent (very simple address) to FREEPOST SURVIVAL UK) The clip must have been shot at the Survival headquarters in London - there were boxfiles behind CF, and the Director of Survival also spoke briefly. CF just looked natural, very serious, hair tousled, no make up, black open necked shirt...but I found I was listening to him rather than looking. Murph, if wants to post my comments in your News section please do so...I'm sure there will be a lot of interest.

Thanks for your timely report, Bethan.

Bethan says: Martin Clunes, Joe Fiennes, Sean Bean, Nigel Havers are being tipped as possibles to star in a multi-million pound TV version of the famouus Flashman books..to play the swashbuckling bed-hopper. ********* I'm late on this, I know, but seeing Nigel Havers name reminded me that in a NY Times article yesterday about the novelist Elizabeth George, Havers in "Chariots of Fire" high-jumping with the champagne glasses was her role model for Detective Lynley. There's a role I'd like to see Dear Boy play. Some of the stories are going to be made by the BBC. I still think CF is out of the Flashman thing. My source was pretty close to the center. Murph

I also loved the way he finished Bethan, very polite.

I'm the one, I think, that Eileen is referring to re a source close to CF's agent. I can only say that it is someone who talked directly with Colin's agent. The agent said he had never heard of the Flashman project. Murph Thanks, Bethan. I will put the Survival info up now, along with Luvvy's card on the Donmar page.

Yes, thank you, Murph. I should have cited your site as the source of my info. Apologies for my oversight. 8-D

You're most welcome, Murph! Re. Flashman...the "news" item I found was an old one, which pre-dates the TV Times report (stating that CF would play Flashman) by about a year. I only quoted it to prove that there was, indeed, a "Flashman project" which was being worked on. I still think he'll do it...it's a good project IMHO. (Probably his agent was being politic and non-commital) Anyway, after nearly six months of working for nothing (two stints of 3DOR) and work for BBC Scotland, and cameo roles, he may need a cash boost! Carlton/Meridian pay very well to "star" actors...for his last series of "Sharpe" Sean Bean was paid �1million, which is big money in UK terms!(peanuts for Hollywood :-) ) But...CF may be the one actor in the world who's not interested in money!

WOT, no tie! CF wore the sort of attire he might come down in after 3DOR, black top with collar of a slightly different black fabric. The rest has very competently been reviewed above. Thanks for link Luvvie. Do the" backstage crew" all get cards in the post?

Thanks, Bethan for your detailed report on Survival. We would all loved to have seen it. I wonder if 3 Deers could put it on a software that would make it available for all to see at cf.com?

Forgot to add, re. the Survival appeal, that you can also phone in credit card donations to UK code 0800 099 099. 0800 is a FreePhone service. BBC Audience Response take the calls...they also ask for your address, as Survival will acknowledge all donations. I think it's a very good cause. My first trip to West Africa was as a volunteer aid worker. I'm much more materialistic and selfish these days, and so it's nice to be reminded that there are still people who care.

Bethan, did they mention when Colin would be *manning* the telephones? ;-)

Lookie here: More later... ;-)

Oh dear, he looks very tired. He must have finally read the book.:-0 C'mon, does anyone need to have 85 words in one sentence? Thanks for the transcription of the Survival info. We may start seeing more of Colin in the news than on the screen.

I wondered what Arami might be talking about... Calm down, everybody... I was merely meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine dark eyes in the face of a handsome man... erm... Wot??? What I am often playing at is commonly known as surmising. Making an "informed guess". As the saying has it, there's no smoke without fire. Someone, somewhere, must have mentioned Flashman and Firth in the same sentence... Even if it was only to say "I wonder if..." This may have been followed by someone else saying "No way!"... Who, when, how - we shall probably never know. End of story. Only in the meantime the usual way of the gossip blew it up a bit out of the proportion. And in the Lifeline Appeal, Colin looked very earnest - indeed, not nervous at all - and concentrating on the autocue. His hair looked damp and flattened, as opposed to the usual fluffy.

Thanks for the picture, Karen. I'm glad to see The Master up close and personal, but I have to admit that this is not the favorite look I've ever seen on CF. Somehow the combo of the too-tall, too-dark hair with the big sideburns just isn't doing it for me. (Almost makes me long for Simon Westward's little moustache.) Maybe it's just this still photo. I'm sure ODB in action will not disappoint!

The milisecond glimpse on the TV trailer wasn't too bad. There's hope.

Oh honey, all the comments about how "charming" he is make me think the picture will not do him justice. ;-) "On set Jodhi was 'chaperoned' by the production team as the intimate scenes between Miss and the Master were filmed. The Miss is driven by her feelings for the Master. Her thoughts are dominated by images of him. She is motivated by the responsibility the Master has placed on her."

Thanks for posting the Master, Karen! Those wardrobe people have done it again, the shirt collar is too big. I can see the resemblance in the cartoon a little more now. I am leaving for Italy tomorrow, Rome then Milan. I wish everyone a very Happy Christmas. I left my Holiday Greetings for you on Topic 127. Cheers!

Yeah!! We're back! OK, here's the new page for: The Turn of the Screw

Karen... you sly thing... ;-) What can I say? I'm so proud of you. You're a firth.com great asset.

Asset? There are probably any number of people in the UK who might consider me more of a Class A Pest. ;-) From the writeup, it does look like they are going to be emphasizing the sexual angle as Bethan - our resident psychic - thought. Yippee!!

There are probably any number of people in the UK who might consider me more of a Class A Pest. ;-) With splendid results for us and cf.com - and long may it be so. they are going to be emphasizing the sexual angle And so they should. I have seen a stage production of TOTS recently and the master didn't even appear in person. The infatuation motif adds a lot of - erm...- flesh (yum! ;-)) to the story.

re: Donmar card. Don't know if they were sent to everyone. Inside is "...and looking forward to the great moments of the future! Seasons Greetings and a Happy New Year From all of us at the Donmar" with 10 signatures from the staff including Rachel (Weinstein) and Sam (Mendes). No actors.

OT: Benjamin Whitrow (Mr. Bennett in P&P) plays Sir Anthony Absolute in the RSC production of "The Rivals" that opens in Stratford-upon-Avon in March. Lindsay Posner directs.

Thanks Bethan for the Lifeline info...I hope to get to see the tape when we go on the 15th. ~~~~~~ Karen....you are Spring's Secret Weapon....what a terrific coup... The TTOTS page is a wonder!Thank you!! ~~~~ re; Donmar card I got one too.....probably all "Friends of..." did. I notice the signature of the guys in the Box Office.....LOL!!!

Congrats on another great scoop, Karen! How do you do it?!! Jodhi May seems to be blonde in the outside location shots, but dark haired in the interior shots. The interior shots seem much darker. Why did she have to be "chaperoned" while filming the shots with the Master...tongue in cheek, surely?

The Miss is driven by her feelings for the Master. Her thoughts are dominated by images of him. Sounds like the Miss should be a drool girl. Beautiful page, Karen. Happy Christmas to you too, Moon. Arrividerci!

Great job once again, Karen! *clap clap* Also am LOL about the "chaperone" line during the "intimate" scenes. Wonder what they mean by intimate?! (Heide) Oh dear, he looks very tired. He must have finally read the book.:-0 C'mon, does anyone need to have 85 words in one sentence? Hee hee! Not, to mention, too many, commas... (Evelyn) I notice the signatures of the guys in the Box Office.....LOL!!! Or were they only in your card? ;-D

(Eileen) about the "chaperone" line during the "intimate" scenes. Wonder what they mean by intimate?! How else are they going to get people to watch a Henry James dramatization? Lots of spin here. But if Miss is fantasizing about the Master, how better to show us than to film it... (am fantasizing those scenes right now) ;-) Looks like SLOW is not playing anywhere this week. :-(

LOL....The wagon train finally made it out to Oklahoma bringing....MLSF!! Playing in Norman (60 miles away) home of the University of Oklahoma. Going tomorrow with a carful....er, I mean...hitching up the surrey....:-D

(KarenR)But if Miss is fantasizing about the Master, how better to show us than to film it... (am fantasizing those scenes right now) ;-) Ha! I thought the same... or at least flash back to her encounter with him, which would multiply the actual 10 minutes ;-)

Karen, just saw the TTOTS page, it is lovely and very informative. The pics of the houses are a dream. Did you have to mention "the dashing Mr Darcy,(...) the man who set women's hearts a flutter in Pride and Prejudice", though? ;-P

Hallelujah, Evelyn!!! Aren't you glad you went to Dallas. Look how long it took. But by the end of next month the video will be out. Was looking for a picture of a Conestoga wagon for you ;-) (Gi) Did you have to mention "the dashing Mr Darcy,(...) the man who set women's hearts a flutter in Pride and Prejudice", though? ;-P Seems quite unnecessary, doesn't it? ;-)

Well, I'm going through thr Bucket at this very moment and there's no pic of Colin in the RV page :-( However, the Londinium page is wonderful, IMO :-)

... and the DQ page is fun, thanks to the background tartan and the animated busues. You are an Artist, my dear :-)

Thanks, Karen. I love the TTOTS page. So, you live in a pair of boots now, are they the Master's boots? ;-) Question: has any one seen Don't Look Now which is one of ODB's favourite films? I am not fond of ghost movies but have eagerness to see this one right now. "If I am offered something irresistible, and it means wearing a costume like Darcy's, then I will do it," says Colin What is irresistible for him is a mystery for me ;-)

After reading Gi's comment, I had to go poke around in the bucket myself... and Karen it's absolutely wonderful!! :-) I liked the boots too -very cute.

Another thought about what ODB said irresistible offers, Mr.Darcy was NOT irresistible for him if I remember correctly. If was not the producer's persuasion, we may get a totally different Mr. Darcy (very very scary thought *shiver*).

I just wanted to thank all of you for making me feel welcome and for all the Firth news you have passed along. Here's a greeting just for you: THANKS Clive wrote to me that he has seen TOTS. Here is his take on it - definitely from a sound man's view! (no Colin): ****************************** On Sunday I went to a private screening of Turn Of The Screw and I must say I was very impressed. They've cut out about 4 minutes (I think), which has tightened the whole thing up - very much to the good in my opinion. The photography is beautiful; the acting is great, especially the 2 children; costumes and sets all look lovely. My one small criticism, between you and I only, is that the make-up people let Jodhi May down by letting the spots on her forehead show badly on a few shots. Not good. I was amazed at how well they cleaned up my location sound in post-production: I'd sat there in agony recording dialogue with light aircraft, jumbos and helicopters in the background of nearly every exterior, plus today's extremely noisy film lights sizzling and whistling their way through my interiors. But lo and behold! The finished film, which uses my sound for every scene bar one, is completely clear of all extraneous noises! How do they do that? There was just one scene, a conversation between Jodhi and Pam Ferris in the garden, which had to be re-recorded - we were dogged by a persistent stunt pilot who spent 2 hours practicing right over the location and we couldn't afford the time to wait till he'd gone. I was privileged to see the film without commercial breaks: the rest of Britain will have to put up with 4 of them breaking up the 90-minutes when it's shown on December 26th, Boxing Day here in England - so called because traditionally boxes, or presents, were given to employees the day after Christmas Day. I say traditionally but it almost certainly became an age-olde tradition in the 19th century, like so many of our so-called ancient traditions. - Clive ************** Again, thanks for being the Best "Droolies" in the world. Murph Evelyn = so glad MLSF has come to "home country."

Xian, "Don't Look Now" is an excelllent film, directed by Nicholas Roeg, and starring Julie Christie and Donald Sutherland, made in the early eighties, I think. It's based on a novella by Daphne du Maurier (same title) which is also well worth reading. The film is set in Venice, is very atmospheric, and is about an English couple whose young daughter has died. It focuses on psychic powers and the ending is totally unpredictable and chilling. There are also some rather sexy scenes! Woth seeing, definitely. The only other film CF has been quoted as liking is "A man for all Seasons" starring Paul Schofield. Good review of TTOTS in Heat magazine, although they mention that "unfortunately" CF only appears in a cameo. As usual he's referred to as the "dashing Darcy!"

bethan, Thank you very much for the info of Don't Look Now! Hopefully I can find it in the Blockbuster near where I live. Thanks, Murph, that is lovely Christmas Greeting especially with ODB as Santa Claus. Tonight, I'll dream of THIS Santa coming down my chimney at the Christmas Eve ;-)

Thankyou Murph, and Happy Holidays to you too. I was wondering Murph, and I may be being a bit cheeky but I was wondering if your source who is close to CF's Agent might be able to give you some early scoops on what he may be doing afgter 3DOR. Someone said that he intends to carrying on working and does not intlend to take a break after the play. A goog old fashioned thriller would be good ifx he thinks he is too old for a romantic role.

Thankyou Murph, and Happy Holidays to you too. I was wondering Murph, and I may be being a bit cheeky but I was wondering if your source who is close to CF's Agent might be able to give you some early scoops on what he may be doing afgter 3DOR. Someone said that he intends to carrying on working and does not intlend to take a break after the play. A good old fashioned thriller would be good ifx he thinks he is too old for a romantic role.

(Xian)What is irresistible for him is a mystery for me The most mysterious thing to me is his misguided notion that his viewers don't like to watch sex--the most obvious clue of all that he's never poked around over here on drool. Good sex is definitely in the fine eye of the beholder! And as for bums going up and down, everything depends on whose the bum, as we would be glad to explain, would we not?

All this talking about "Boxing Day" reminds me of something. I declare Dec. 17 "Boxers Day". (and now I pray that I don't ruin the effect with incompetent htmlling) Karen: excellent work on TOTS!

Thanks Murph for the Firth Holiday card..ODB is also Our Favorite Santa. And for the review from Clive. His comment: between you and I only, is that the make-up people let Jodhi May down by letting the spots on her forehead show badly on a few shots. Not good. Am I mistaken...or did he originally say that his former girlfriend was the make-up person on the set.... ~~~~~ My only wish re: TTOTS reviews ...is that enough journalists complain about Colin's mini-part.

I declare Dec. 17 "Boxers Day" Great idea, Renate. Every day is Boxers Day with me! Murph--absolutely RRRRockin! I've got to go have some eggnog.

Forgot to add, the Heat magazine review gave TTOTS a 4 star rating, so I don't think I'll switch off after the cameo appearance! The most mysterious thing to me is his misguided notion that his viewers don't like to watch sex--the most obvious clue of all that he's never poked around over here on drool. Didn't he say that it was "embarrassing to watch"?! Depends who's watching whom. :-) Thanks for your Christmas greeting Murph! And have a good trip Moon!

The most mysterious thing to me is his misguided notion that his viewers don't like to watch sex It must stem from the fact that ODS(hy)B doesn't like playing sex scenes (you must remember himsaying so in one interview?). In his opinion, sex is for doing, not watching.

(Arami)In his opinion, sex is for doing, not watching. So, fine! He can do it; we'll watch it. Then we'll all be happy. Or if he wants to educate us to the superiority of his point of view, I'm sure we'd all be happy to try the experiment. I'm ready to be convinced!

Hmmm, talk about male reviewers! Just read the Times review of TTOTS "It is a stunningly beautiful production, all Vermeer interiors, if only the governess did not look like a cetacean (Dinosaur)hoovering up krill." He's very cruel about Jodhi May's range of expressions, and then says..."Intense attraction to the Master (Colin "naked Darcy" Firth)is captured with a slightly open mouth.." Elsewhere says the plot should be "familiar from its many stagings" (I'd never seen any version of this). Aso says ther are "four distinctive characters, plus two apparitions", which presumably excludes The Master. I don't like the "naked Darcy" comment...it's innacurate, and why must CF always be referred to in the context of this role? It puts him in a no-win situation, and liable to be made fun of by male reviewers!! I sometimes wonder if it was wise to take a cameo role in a costume drama.

Thank you, Gi, Esbee and Xian. Glad you like. This webpage stuff can be fun. Had to have a bucket, you know, to hold all this drool runoff. And FYI, Xian, those are my boots for wading through high drool. ;-) (Cymbeline) everything depends on whose the bum LOL!! I must agree 100% with your assessment. He really should mind his own business and "do" what he likes. Everybody happy. (Renate) I declare Dec. 17 "Boxers Day" Since it fell on a Friday this year, shall we make it a three-day weekend holiday time? ;-) (Evelyn) Am I mistaken...or did he originally say that his former girlfriend was the make-up person on the set I shouldn't drink coffee while reading. LOL!! going to get my Windex (Bethan) I don't like the "naked Darcy" comment...it's innacurate That's right! There was "naked Tom Jones," but not "naked Darcy." Sounds like a letter to the editor of The Times is required. Go to it, girl. ;-)

Why don't you write to the reviewer, Bethan, and ask which P&P he saw because you sure would like a copy of it. I'm afraid our boy is destined to be Darcy forever unless he takes the lead in another success. Don't think the films bein released in 2000 are going to dispel the Darcy image and playing Mark Darcy would only add more fuel to that fire. But sigh! Inaccuracies aside, could there be a more flattering potrait of a character of whom to be constantly reminded? Reviewers bedamned. Nothing bad about Colin's performance and if Jodhi May can't carry the film, Colin's cameo appearance isn't going to be blamed. Thanks for the cheery greetings, Murph. And Renate, thanks for explaining so aptly with pictures what "Boxer's Day" is all about.

More from Clive on Colin in TOTS: ******************** It is misleading to put Colin up as the star of TOTS, I agree. Having said that his scene is so important in setting up the rest of the tale, as you know. In the film it is very intense. Colin comes across as a friendly, intense man, quite remote because we seem to be seeing him only through Miss's eyes, which is just right for the film. When we filmed the scene he was quite obviously very relaxed and happy with lots of on-set jokes and I think you can see that on the screen. We shot it very efficiently with very few takes of each shot, so the whole day was pleasant and easy as filming days go, apart from the fact that Sion House is directly under the approach path to London's Heathrow Airport, which is less than 8 miles away! My overall assessment of the film (a heavily biased one, of course) is that it's director Ben Bolt's best work to date, being much less meandering than other films I've done with him. That's not to say it feels rushed - the pace, which is probably the most difficult thing to perfect in film-making, felt absolutely right to me. ************* Murph

Re: Times review of TTOTS"if only the governess did not look like a cetacean (Dinosaur)hoovering up krill." He's very cruel about Jodhi May's range of expressions,.." cetacean= "any aquatic mammal including whales, dolphins and related forms with large head, fishlike nearly hairless body and paddle-shaped forelimbs." (Webster's). A krill is the larvae that a whale feeds on. The reviewer is also v. cruel about Ms. May's looks. All I said was that she was ugly...and everyone came down on me...and said she was "Jane-Eyre-plain".IMHO a more attractive governess (Sophie Marceau in "Firelight") would have made the production more palatable. I didn't even like her as Lady Sarah in "The Aristocrats".And don't think she's a v. good actress. Now I'm off to see MLSF!