I think Elena should organize it! ;-D I so move..... All those in favor say "AYE"!!! ~~~~~~~ Seriously, why set ourselves up for an embarassing moment for all concerned. A star of his stature just doesn't do that...esp. a shy one.He is a v. couteous person...but I would not want to put him in that position.Let's just enjoy ourselves and relish the moment.Enough to have him that close and smiling at us in that beguiling way. I shall tell the Donmar publicist about the 3 DOR discussion page on cf.com...if Karen hasn't yet.But the guys at the box office don't care...they sell tickets and then wanna go home. I only wish every one of you were coming with us in January....'n on the 13th for the SLOW premiere.

I shall be going to SLOW on the 14th, in the interests of providing an extra review. Still haven't figured out how to explain to my DW that we're going to see a movie in Brixton (not on our usual cinematic round). Potential excuses reasons: LFF first opportunity to see wonderful new film that may not hit other screens for ages (hope she doesn't spot when it was made); we might recognise Grasse, where we stayed for a week three years ago; online film discussion group demanding coverage (hmm, maybe not); any ideas?

I shall tell the Donmar publicist about the 3 DOR discussion page on cf.com Hmmm....... would like to have your opinion on this: Two of the pics on the Donmar discussion pages are illegally taken. You may recall that there was a sign explicitly saying that these pictures must not be photographed. Fortunately I only read it when it was too late :-). So, if we invite the Donmar people to take a look at the discussions it may be wiser to take the pics down. What do you think?

Mark.G - I shall be going to see SLOW on the 14th - I think you mean the 13th Mark, I would hate for you to think up all those excuses only to miss the film.

Two of the pics on the Donmar discussion pages are illegally taken. Good point. This just adds fuel to the fire of internet bashers. I'm enough of a hypocritical straight arrow that I wouldn't want us to be seen doing anything that might attract the antidrooling police.

It is only two pictures, it might be a good idea to take them down.

Thanks Ann, I do mean the 14th. My calendar must be SLOW.

Two of the pics on the Donmar discussion pages are illegally taken. (a) You're assuming that they will hop on the Internet to read the discussions, which I doubt. (b) There is nothing to indicate that the pictures were photographed off the walls of the Donmar. (c) The publicists hand out production stills for reproduction by the press. Internet publication qualifies. Stop being so paranoid. If they object, you can be sure that they will ask for their removal (which I doubt). No one is going to prison. Now focus your creative talents on helping Mark with "reasons" to take his DW to Brixton to see SLOW. Mark, I like your one about a film discussion group. If you need to elaborate, you could just say that you've monitored the group's discussions for sometime and you remember this film being mentioned ages ago. Now you've noticed that it's playing the fest and you're intrigued, you want to find out why members of the group were anxious to see it. You might even report back to them since you're one of the few people in a position to see it. That, or somebody gave you tickets and you didn't want to waste them. ;-D

More holiday shopping news... The Collector's Edition of SIL on DVD will be out on December 7. This is the one that has a "Making of" featurette, audio commentary by the director and members of the cast (I think Colin), and three deleted scenes, including the original ending. Reel.com has it for $23.99 on preorder (regular price $39.99) and remember no shipping costs.

Re: ODB's whiskers (you can tell I've been reading Flashman books)--oooohhh, I like this look. Slick, smooth and very in. IMO heavier growth impedes his good looks whereas this compliments them. The FoFs who saw him at the comedy club in June reported at Murph's site that he sported a goatee--everyone assumed it was for Blackadder. Maybe it was for both roles. (Moon) I hate to burst the bubble, but he would not do it. I agree with Moon, Evelyn and everyone else who has this opinion. IMO ODB has drawn a clear line regarding his fans. When you all left for London in March I remember crossing my fingers that you'd spot him entering or leaving the theater and maybe, *maybe* catch him for a few autographs. I was 'over the moon' when I learned that he was so outgoing after the performances, even when he was not feeling well. I would be stunned to hear of him doing anything more than autographs, posing for pictures or ans ering a simple, straightforward question about his work. I agree with your observations, Bethan; Karen, it's sad to hear that Maslin is leaving the Times. (Karen) Established critics are being forced out because their views do not reflect the tastes of the ticket-buying public I've always suspected that good reviews of some films have been bought (heck, the whole thing might be as corrupt as the International Boxing Federation!). If this keeps going, reviews run the risk of becoming as meaningless as the endless gush on Ent Tonight and Access H'wood. Ugh. (Bethan) Another trend is the intrusive interview I've noticed that CF's interviews in the British press are tougher than the 'fluff' pieces published in the US (e.g., People Mag), only because he's lesser known here. They're pushing for a scoop to sell mags--what better way than to dig up some dirt or controversy on someone who seems to lead a fairly ordinary life?

No one is going to prison. No, but what about the Spanish Inquisition?!

(Moon) I hate to burst the bubble, but he would not do it. I�m 99 per cent sure he wouldn�t but optimistically thinking, there might still be a chance! I never ever believed that he would be seen after the performance in March and expected him to vanish as quickly as possible. What happened was everything but. He surprised us all with his fan-friendly attitude...I suggested here in February that we should ask him to pose for a pic with us all and I NEVER imagined that he would actually do it, I thought it was just a silly fantasy. Also, I don�t see what is embarrassing about inviting him after the show to Nuova Luna for example, just for a minute to tell us about the making of the play. We�re not half-naked giggling bimbos (at least not in that situation:-D) but a group of pretty sensible looking Volvo ladies. Ok ok, I know it�s a fantasy and he must be very tired after two performances, and there�s no-one to volunteer (I�d do it if my spoken English wasn�t so bad and even worse when I�m nervous) so forget it. Still, theoretically, I don�t see anything wrong about politely asking and I�m sure he wouldn�t mind. In fact I�d be very curious to know what would be his reaction!:-)

I'm sure you "expected" this: Do try to handle the torture! ;-D

Or the guillotine?! Karen, I think the management at the Donmar will read the 3DOR discussion. (Karen), Now focus your creative talents on helping Mark with "reasons" to take his DW to Brixton to see SLOW. Mark, get your wife to watch P&P this Nov. on A&E if you do not have the tape. Then, after she has seens dear Mr. Darcy, tell her that he is starring in SLOW. I doubt she will have any objections to the trip to Brixton. :-D Lucky her!

Who could resist!

So, if we invite the Donmar people to take a look at the discussions it may be wiser to take the pics down. What do you think? I took the lobby pictures for TRT...Donmar publicist has seen them...yet nothing was said.We have had persons tell us to take pictures down (Toronto media!) and we have..no problem. ~~~~~~ Mark..great to have you joining us for SLOW screening on the 13th. Hey...the SLOW Spring delegation grows every day.

Thanks Moon...IBM indeed!!!

Mark, a propos Moon's earlier suggestion, is your DW familiar with Colin at all -- if not through P&P, then perhaps through SiL or even TEP? If so, wouldn't think it would be too hard to persuade her to see a big-screen film featuring a rare lead role for him. Re: the suggestion of asking him out for drinks/discussion, I'm in the nay camp on this. Don't think he would do it, if for no other reason than he may be afraid of setting a precedent and thereafter be beseeched by various groups of fans after each performance. As it is, I wonder if he will do the "meet and greet" thing after each performance this time, since this is a much longer run than in March. I still think the best forum for asking him the questions we want to have asked is an online chat-type thing. Who volunteers to help Colin brush up on his computer skills;-)

I like the Londinium pic, Karen! Not a heavy growth, and, most significantly, his mouth isn't obscured. (Moon) I hate to burst the bubble, but he would not do it. The Donmar has a backdoor exit. He could have chosen to slip out through it every evening. I was very impressed by your reports of his willingness to meet and briefly chat with fans after the performance, but would be very unsure whether he would take up a further invitation...although I'm sure he'd refuse very graciously! (BTW I do have a ticket for a performance of 3DOR, but towards the end of the run.) I've noticed that CF's interviews in the British press are tougher than the 'fluff' pieces published in the US (e.g., People Mag),only because he's lesser known here. They're pushing for a scoop to sell mags--what better way than to dig up some dirt or controversy on someone who seems to lead a fairly ordinary life? (Eileen) Too true. I think he's too normal for our sensation-seeking press. There's a preview of 3DOR in this week's London TimeOut.."Rain supreme". It's mostly an inreview with David Morrissey, but it refers to "three stunning actors CF, EM and DM" and praises the play. DM comments thatthey only had (originally) two weeks to rehearse.."I always knew the play was good but whether we could do justice to it in such a short rehearsal period I was less sure about". He says he's enjoying the time to look at the play again. There's a small photo of DM with Colin. Colin is wearing specs, open necked shirt, with white T-shirt underneath. Guess he's in character. I haven't seen this photo before, and will gladly send it for scanning to anyone who has the expertise. (I ain't got it!)

Great to hear you have a ticket to 3DOR Bethan, I look forward to hering what you thought of it when the times comes. I'm so glad to hear that there has been a mention of it somehwere, I thought it was going to come and go without comment. I believe R.F is to appear or has appeared on Dessert Island Discs, wouldn't it be great if Colin did something like this, very insightful to know what he would take if marooned on an Island!!

(Bethan)I'm sure he'd refuse very graciously! Certainly and I�d love to see that very gracious refusal! Anyway, it�s no use trying to guess what his reaction would be, the only way to find it out would be to politely ask and see what happens.

There will be publicity for 3DOR. That picture in Time Out would be from March since new photos will not be taken until Tuesday, so you should see things in the papers starting Friday, I would imagine. Am also glad to hear you are going, Bethan. Finally, there are some new pictures from SLOW on Murph's site. If you go to the news page below, you will see Colin and Nia in bed (that's the same shot as appeared in Ann's film magazine), then click on it and you will see a gorgeous closeup. http://www.geocities.com/firthfan/news2.html

(K) Do try to handle the torture! ;-D Oh, no, not the comfy chair! I confess, I confess! =8-O (E) I took the lobby pictures for TRT...Donmar publicist has seen them...yet nothing was said. Thanks, Evelyn. That gives an idea how serious they are about their "Don't"s.

Renate, did you get my email? If people start clamoring to see the rest of the face, I will tell them it's your fault! It will be the extra-Comfy chair for you!! ;-D

Karen, I have changed the link. And now *I* start clamoring to see the rest :-P.

Re: SLOW picture....doesn't do Nia Long justice...she's much prettier. And a big hit in the current "The Best Man."

I haven't seen this photo before, and will gladly send it for scanning to anyone who has the expertise. Better still, send it to someone who has a reliable scanner... mine is out of action and here I sit like a prune with all those lovely new pics in my sweaty little paws... Waaaaaah! Btw, when are you going to the Donmar, Bethan?

Since the closest scanner is out of commission, I'm available. OK, since Renate has made the necessary change, go to firth.com and click on my little box to see what I've been up to!

(Evelyn) Susan, apparently Matthew's marriage was on the rocks when he falls for Nimi. Rocks, schmocks. Whatever happened to "till death do us part";-) Bethan, I meant to tell you earlier that I really enjoy your comments on the British film industry, reviewers, etc. Always very insightful and informative. Please continue them. Will probably be off-line for next few days, so want to wish everyone that's traveling to 3DOR and SLOW a safe and happy journey. Looking forward to your reports:-D

Karen, your Londinium page is fabulous. Congratulations!! Love the blue background. Irene Jacob looks ok to me. The picnic ...is that Regent Park?..Hyde Park? Love the walking on the Southbank scene...and in the scene with Max Binder Colin looks like Tom Selleck to me. Mustache and goatee look fuller. What a treat. Thanks.

Karen - the Londinium page is a treat! The portrait is wonderful--beard is good, and the hair is great. Although I am a real sucker for his early public school boy parts, I have to say his pushing forty face is getting some great character, and I'm lovin'it. He's so fine!

Good show, Karen.

Good show indeed, thanks Karen. Ilike the goatee.

Glad you all like. :-D Can't wait to hear if Ann changes her mind when she sees the full, robust character! My fav has to be all four walking along the Thames. (nasty little me) Check out the heights. Irene J has spike heels on and Mariel is wearing flats.

Wow - Mariel is tall! I hadn't noticed she was wearing flats in the picture. I wonder why Mike Binder keeps wanting to work with her? She makes him look like a munchkin. Thanks for the pictures, Karen! And MarkG, thanks for arranging to see SLOW and report back. Those of us who do not have access to see it greatly appreciate it, particularly when it involves spousal maneuvering. Heavens, we're going to make you as sneaky as the rest of us ;-).

There will be publicity for 3DOR. That picture in Time Out would be from March since new photos will not be taken until Tuesday, so you should see things in the papers starting Friday, I would imagine. (Karen) What would we do without you Karen? You really do have your finger on the pulse! I'm really glad that 3DOR's return won't go unnoticed. If Colin's going to work for three months for the price of his taxi fare, let him at least get some attention! Having said that, he does get attention in today's Times (Hurrah!)In the Metro Theatre section, three plays are recommended...Vanessa and Corin Redgrave (first time they've played together) in a Noel Coward play (Coward is definitely in fashion), the Royal Shakes eare Company's "Taming of the Shrew" and 3DOR... "a return run for a production that proved hugely successful when it briefly played during the theatre's American drama season. RG's darkish comedy dodges form 19965 to 1960, allowing the excellent Colin Firth to tackle both a stuttering architect with a dread of children and his awkward alienated son. " Sandwiched bewtween theatrical royalty and the RSC is fine, and I particularly like "the excellent CF". I hate to say this, but being referred to as a "heartthrob" or "tight-trousered Darcy" will have done him absolutely no favours with the acting establishment here. Time to move on.. Re: SLOW picture....doesn't do Nia Long justice...she's much prettier. And a big hit in the current "The Best Man." (Evelyn) I saw Nia Long in "Made in America" (one of my favourite movies) with Whoopi Goldberg, Ted Danson, Will Smith and Jennifer Tilly (all very funny!). I thought she was very pretty..and a good performer. Tiny though...can't be more than five foot. CF will tower over her! I'm really keeping my fingers crossed for SLOW (and I reckon Colin will make it to the Friday matinee, if only to support the producer and director. And Islington is only a couple of miles from the NFT!) Don't forget the soundtrack by Peter abriel (masterminding the Dome Millenium concert) and an award winning cinematographer. The only problem I can see is that it won't be downbeat or heavy enough for our reviewers who seem to love in yer face social realism, tackling so called "issues". Why do there have to be any "issues"? Can't an Englishman and Nigerian woman fall in love? On reviews...the promotion for "The Fight Club" is typical of what we're getting at the moment. "A howling monster of a movie that sticks its ravening snout out of the screen and bites you". Ouch! This is from "Empire"...who cares if they don't like SLOW?! :-) Well MLSF has reached us and will be shown on Thursday 11th - plus a good article about David Puttnam in our Daily Paper.(Anne) Good news Anne! And a major chain. Even better. Wish the focus would shift from DP (this movie has a star!) but I'm not complaining! Great pics of Londinium, Karen. It's obviously an ensemble piece (a romantic foursome) with back up from the likes of Jack Dee (very dourly amusing) and SF. Could well be okay, although I wouldn't expect it to be a blockbuster! I reckon that CF ends up with IJ and MB with MH. CF always looks good as a "proper Englisman"!

Karen, brilliant! And thank you very much for the new pictures, they are great. I love his looks, he looks very tall - love that, too. Now the only thing to worry about is his screentime....... and perhaps his jacket ;-P).

I agree with everthing Renate said, wonderfully done, Karen! Do you have the script yet? Saw "Being John Malkovich" last night, he has grown old and fat. It was quite a spectacle to see him dance with just a towel wrapped around his waist.

(Moon) Do you have the script yet? No :-( (I did ask and haven't given up yet.) he has grown old and fat. It was quite a spectacle to see him dance with just a towel wrapped around his waist. One of my favorite scenes! That and a couple of others alone are worth the price of admission. Craig's Dance of Despair and Destruction is an absolute hoot!

Just lovely. While I agree with Cymbeline about his interesting "pushing forty" face, he still has a boyish, vulnerable look (at least in these pictures) which I quite love. I will be a sucker for his character. The London scenery looks stunning. Terrific work, Karen, in getting these shots and thanks Renate for setting them up. (Bethan) I reckon that CF ends up with IJ and MB with MH. Better check that wedding shot again. Looking forward to hearing your MLSF thoughts, Anne. We haven't discussed this one in a little bit. Bon Voyage, Evelyn. Have a safe and fruitful journey. Only one more week to get the scoop for SLOW. We'll be waiting to hear from you all, E., Ann, Mark, and ?

Moon, that is one of my favorite pictures! It is my wallpaper...Thank you!

Question about Colin Firth, has he ever done any audio books?

(Terry) has he ever done any audio books? Excellent question. I think I'd listen to a Windows user manual if he read it. A couple of other RFI's: Can anyone send me citation for McCarthy/Morrill book? Has the script of the play Another Country been published? Thanks to anyone who can furnish enlightenment.

(Heide) Only one more week to get the scoop for SLOW. We'll be waiting to hear from you all, E., Ann, Mark, and ? ???....Tineke?, Sabine?, Aishling and Mark's wife!Not all for both screenings. ~~~~~ (Cymbeline)Can anyone send me citation for McCarthy/Morrill book? See, I told ya' you'd be hooked :-)! "Some Other Rainbow" By John Mc Carthy and Jill Morrell ISBN 0-593-027299 Out of print , but if yu prevail with amazon they will get it. Or try the Out of Print bookstores on-line. Try Samuel French Drama bookstore for any of the play scripts. The drama bookshop in NYC recently got 3DOR .

Terry, CF has read "Comeback" by Dick Francis. Out of "print" now. He also did an audio play (on BBC, I believe) "The One Before The Last", but that was never published on tape.

That picture in Time Out would be from March since new photos will not be taken until Tuesday Why just Tuesday? Photos are often taken during rehearsals, too. I believe Colin has done two radio plays: the earlier one, Two Planks and a Passion, written and directed by Anthony Minghella in 1986, is not available on tape, as far as I know. Finally, some good news - my scanner is working again... ;-)

Why just Tuesday? Because that's when they told the photographer to come. ;-)

Because that's when they told the photographer to come. ;-) Karen, you take my breath away! Is there nothing you do not know? Apologies for being a distracted poster here. Am just doing too many things. Cannot say no to any interesting project! Speaking of which I do not think I shall be able to make the early sceenings of SLOW but am certainly working on the DH to take it in when it goes on general'ish release. If Mark can get his DW to go to Brixton I can surely lure my DH to the Screen on the Hill, Green or whatever.

(Allison)Speaking of which I do not think I shall be able to make the early sceenings of SLOW... That OK...there's enough of us going. I just didn't want Spring not to be represented at ODB's UK premiere of a film we're all vitally interested in. BTW...also good Spring delegation attending SUMMERFOLK the evening before at the National Theatre on Southbank. What a coup...JE one day (ODG) and ODB the next. :-DD ~~~~~~ Because that's when they told the photographer to come. ;-) Karen, you take my breath away! Is there nothing you do not know? LOL Karen gives new meaning to the phrase: "She's here, she's there...she's everywhere"...:-D

Sorry to dampen everyone's spirits but there is a very bad review for SLOW in Film Review magazine (UK), only 1out of 5stars., didn't bother to read it properly or buy the magazine, only words I remebered were something to the effect that Colin Firth seemed uncomfortable especially in scenes with his estranged wife (CG). I am beginning to wonder if Colin is after all such a good judge of a screenplay/project. re Londinium Karen, he looks okay but his eyes seem different, where are the brown pools to drown in!!(grammar?)

The Three Deers strike again! ;-) http://www.firth.com/donmar/3dor-nedtheo.htm

(Ann)but his eyes seem different, where are the brown pools to drown in My thought as well--his eyes look small--trick of the photography, makeup, light, bad night? Maybe they made him wear eye reduction contacts. I just read that he wore contacts in P&P to darken his eyes. Were they crazy? (Evelyn)See, I told ya' you'd be hooked Thanks for the citations. You are right; I'm absolutely hooked! I've read ATA (profound imo, and they really watered it down), COF (plot much changed, Simon less awful than on screen), have a copy of AMITC on order, and am now deep in Les Liaisons Dangereuses, in English translation I'm afraid. But here's something interesting. As you know, the novel is completely epistolary. In the middle of letter 23, from ODVicomte to Mme M, occur the words, "I do not deserve either this praise or this censure." I don't have a French edition, but if anyone does it would be fascinating to find out if this is a literal translation of LaClos's words. That is, did J.A. know this novel, which was published in 1782, and take the phrase from him, or did the translator know J.A. and adapt her phrase. Since P&P was originally written in 1796 and is believed to have been epistolary in its first version, and since a cousin of J.A.'s was married to a French nobleman, perhaps she was influenced by Liaisons. And indeed she had not many other novels by which to be influenced at that time. If you have covered this elsewhere or when, I beg your pardons. I am a latecomer to the rich harvest of the Firthian literary groves. (10 points off. Please moderate your stylistic excesses)

Bethan, I think that is the one you found? Thanks for alerting us. ;-)

(Ann)but his eyes seem different, where are the brown pools to drown in My thought as well--his eyes look small--trick of the photography, makeup, light, bad night? Maybe they made him wear eye reduction contacts. I just read that he wore contacts in P&P to darken his eyes. Were they crazy? (Evelyn)See, I told ya' you'd be hooked Thanks for the citations. You are right; I'm absolutely hooked! I've read ATA (profound imo, and they really watered it down), COF (plot much changed, Simon less awful than on screen), have a copy of AMITC on order, and am now deep in Les Liaisons Dangereuses, in English translation I'm afraid. But here's something interesting. As you know, the novel is completely epistolary. In the middle of letter 23, from ODVicomte to Mme M, occur the words, "I do not deserve either this praise or this censure." I don't have a French edition, but if anyone does it would be fascinating to find out if this is a literal translation of LaClos's words. That is, did J.A. know this novel, which was published in 1782, and take the phrase from him, or did the translator know J.A. and adapt her phrase. Since P&P was originally written in 1796 and is believed to have been epistolary in its first version, and since a cousin of J.A.'s was married to a French nobleman, perhaps she was influenced by Liaisons. And indeed she had not many other novels by which to be influenced at that time. If you have covered this elsewhere or when, I beg your pardons. I am a latecomer to the rich harvest of the Firthian literary groves. (10 points off. Please moderate your stylistic excesses)

Very nice pic, folks! despite the glasses which certainly don't do anything for the ripe chestnuts. What I love are the sideburns. Sorry my posting is on twice--don't know why, and I certainly would not wish to impose on your patiences more than necessary.

That picture in Time Out would be from March since new photos will not be taken until Tuesday Why just Tuesday? Photos are often taken during rehearsals, too. I believe Colin has done two radio plays: the earlier one, Two Planks and a Passion, written and directed by Anthony Minghella in 1986, is not available on tape, as far as I know. Finally, some good news - my scanner is working again... ;-)

"Technical" OT: Well, I must comment on this right now, it may interest Terry among other people. So far I was convinced that double postings result from going off- and then online again whilst still logged in on Spring. I still think that is part of the problem (and btw no one cannot seriously be expected to remember each time deliberately and consciously to go over to another web page before going offline, just because of that) - but this time I DID go back to my home page, then offline for an hour or so, then online a d straight to cf.com, and then back here... and immediately I was greeted by the sight of my own double post! From now on I shall apologize no more - and I suggest no one else should.

Great Arami! Now share those lovely pictures with us. :-D Renate, you are quick! 3Deers love 3DOR! How about linking the play discussion to the links there?

...And in case newcomers still wonder - yes, this program also "swallows" odd letters in the middle of every sixth line or so... (but, Terry, we are not complaining, really, are we, folks? ;-))

Oh, yes, and don't forget the year 2035... (was it?)

more OT: My experience with Netscape is, when you have posted yourself you have to actually close the window, then open a new one, and enter the board again. It is February 2036.... ;-)

Bethan, I think that is the one you found? Thanks for alerting us. ;-) Yep! Well done! only words I remebered were something to the effect that Colin Firth seemed uncomfortable especially in scenes with his estranged wife (CG). I am beginning to wonder if Colin is after all such a good judge of a screenplay/project. Don't panic Ann! I hate it when he gets bad reviews, but I'm rapidly losing faith in reviewers' judgement. So far we've had CF is "terrifically funny" (Women's Journal), "witty and charismatic", "anaemic" and "uncomfortable". And 3 stars, 2 stars, 1 star. It's obviously not everyone's cup of tea, but then he also got some bad reviews for Darcy, and some very bad reviews for "Valmont"!! We see things differently. I just can't gauge public taste anymore. I noticed that after only one week "The Winslow Boy" has disappeared without trace except a couple of London venues, and "Mad Cows" is everywhere. The lowest common denominator prevails.

Love the Time Out photo - bringing back all those memories! Colin can be such a nerd with so little effort (although the glasses, white shirt and pocket protector are required). May have to buy that issue when it shows up on our shores next week. Definitely have Kirsten add that one to our discussion pages when she gets a chance. Cymbeline: In my edition, the phrase is translated as: 'I deserve,' I replied, 'neither the compliment nor the reproof; and I cannot think that, with all your intelligence, you have yet arrived at an understanding of me. Unless someone here has the original French, I could forward it on to someone who would likely know. But don't you just love the book though. I'm interested in your take on the book and whether you think Forman was all wet or had some basis for way he had Valmont behave. (Ann) I am beginning to wonder if Colin is after all such a good judge of a screenplay/project. I wouldn't worry too much. The reviews will be all over the board on this one, but lucky you gets to see it yourself to judge. While Colin may have wanted to lend his support to a worthy screenwriter and new director, I doubt he would do it if he didn't like the screenplay. Re: OTs I've only experienced a double post (with Netscape) when I've submitted a message and then inadvertently hit Reload/Refresh while in the same topic.

Good pic of Ned, most of the 3 DOR pics were of Walker and that ugly green sweater.Thanks ....Three Deers and Bethan. ~~~ A week from today you will get the **real** SLOW review from AnnW.... unvarnished, objective...etc.:-D ~~~~~ Sorry to hear The Winslow Boy has had such little success in UK...I personally consider it the outstanding film of the year.Perhaps it will do better on video...since that is a more popular media there.

unvarnished, objective..etc Evelyn, you left out unbiased, some hope. Bethan who gave Darcy bad reviews!!! and I bet Mad Cows won't be there next week, not if word of mouth has anything to do with it and there are some pretty good films out this week in the UK, among them a British film hailed as the next Monty "East is East", I expect that to do very well. But it is all hype really, my eldest son went to see TBW Project and said it was the most over-hyped boring film he has ever been to, he said he was looking forward to be scared and it was a complete let-down.

Thanks for the comments on the double postings etc. I shall look in to this more. I thought it was from hitting the enter key twice or holding it too long. There are telnet accounts available to anyone having a hard time on the web. Telnet, once you learn it, is a very fast, reliable way to access this conferncing system. And thanks for the heads up on the CF audio book, what is the subject matter of this book."Comeback" by Dick Francis, but it's too bad the books out of print. It's such a treat to hear a book read by an English person.

Terry, if you smile nicely at some Firthettes, I'm sure one of them will let you have a bootleg copy. The book is about some underhand rivalry in a racing stable... the focus point is a cut-by-stitch detailed description of an intricate veterinary operation on a horse's stomach, and I swear I have never come across a more boring passage read by a more fascinating voice... but then, as some say, he could read from a phone book and sound rivetting.

There's some new info about "Turn of the Screw" at imdb.com. It is to be shown on 26 December (Boxing Day). That's a good slot...better than Christmas Day in terms of television watching figures. The cinematography (which I always think is very important) is by a David Odd who was responsible for "Our Mutual Friend" and "Great Expectations".

(Bethan), I just can't gauge public taste anymore. The lowest common denominator prevails. How true! And to top it off the hereditaries have been extinguished. A very sad state of affairs. A very sad day for GB.

(Arami)From now on I shall apologize no more - and I suggest no one else should. Why should you/we??

(Heide) Only one more week to get the scoop for SLOW. We'll be waiting to hear from you all, E., Ann, Mark, and ? I'll try to be there as well. I noticed that when you get tickets on the day itself, you can get a student discount. I'll definately see Summerfolk on the 11th, and 3DOR on Saturday, Nov 13th. I can't wait!!!

Great to catch up on all that has been happening at 123.

Karen, amazing work , as always. What would we do without you? Thank you so much. A few bits in the press. Sainsbury's(LOL) has 3DOR as "play of the month" with the small article completely from EMG's point of view and how they knew they had "something special" together when they performed it in March etc Go read for free. Also in the Guardian, a bit of a recycle, but "especially Firth" is mentioned in terms of great performances.

Re the Donmar Impasse - Those of you who get the Parade supplement with your Sunday papers may have seen this question in Walter Scott's Personality Parade in today's issue (I know, I know, but we who are stuck out here in the wilds of the Wessex estate have to get our intellectual stimulation where we can). Question: How do stars of, say, Julia Roberts' magnitude handle fan mail? Do they even read it? Answer: Rarely. ... It's a matter not only of volume but also of security--and you don't have to be a superstar like Roberts. Celebrities must maintain several levels of removal from fans because of threats from stalkers ... Security expert Gavin de Becker advises clients not to answer fan mail even with a form letter. Any personal greeting might be misinterpreted as an invitation to the sort of harassment that has plagued Madonna and Jodie Foster. That doesn't hold out much hope for a cozy chat session after the performance, does it? And does this explain the lack of response from the agent? Is it because of the crazy people that ODB's agent is prevented from exercising what would normally be common courtesy toward us nice Volvo ladies (was that the phrase and was it Moon's?) Sad if so.

I should have mentioned that the article is in the Sainsbury's own magazine. It is one of our supermarkets for those not in the know!! BTW i hate the "Colin "Mr Darcy" Firth" mention fron the Guardian. Hope we won't see any more snippets along those lines. Pigs might fly and ODB would join us for an online chat-------!!!!

Re: Volvo ladies....Cymbeline, as far as I remember, the term Volvo ladies was in a British paper last spring. Colin fans were described as ladies who have left their Volvos and labrador dogs behind to crowd in the Donmar lobby!

Thanks for the tip re The Sainsbury Magazine Lizza and I am very glad to hear that there is something inone of the Sunday papers, absolutely silch in The Sundaty Times. BTW please let us know how you get on on Saturday, audience reaction etc and whether or not he comes down to the foyer again, he just might on Saturday and is is near the beginning of the run. Glad to hear you are going to make it to London, Tineke.

Hi Lizza! Nice to see you here again!

Sorry Ann, I should have said it was yesterday's paper. Today there is nothing in Observer or Indie that I can see. I will be taking your good wishes (and other such sentiments!!) with me Elena on Saturday!! And Drool's of course!! Ann, I don't know if he will come down between shows. I think that Evelyn said JE sometimes popped out for a sandwich in between. Here's hoping.

Ann, i just emailed you and had it returned. Could you mail me and then I can reply. Thanks!!

Yes, Volvo ladies came from an article about the last Donmar run that was printed in The Tatler. Thanks for the news items, Lizza. Did the EMcG one also give recipes? ;-D

(Cymbeline)That doesn't hold out much hope for a cozy chat session after the performance, does it? Well, he didn�t seem too scared or security-concerned in March you know, he put his hand around numerous fans in numerous pictures with no hesitation etc. Actually I was a bit surprised that he didn�t seem to have a bunch of body guards around and I�m very happy about it because it shows that he has no specially bad experiences about meeting fans, thank God.

LOL Karen!!

Re Sainsbury's - now we know where you get your groceries and bog rolls, Lizza. Good luck on Saturday, and at the risk of repeating Ann's entreaties, please let us know how you get on (i.e. the dirt). We ladies left behind are looking forward to an active weekend next week thanks to you ladies in London and Brixton. (Elena) Well, he didn�t seem too scared or security-concerned in March you know, he put his hand around numerous fans in numerous pictures with no hesitation etc. I for one would have willingly allowed him to frisk me first.

And Heide ,as we all know, YOU were on full security alert with ODB!! Up close and secure, if you ask me!!

I will of course, keep you fully briefed. I feel much more nervous, excited and generally emotional than I did in the week prior to our visit in March. I think because it is not an unknown quantity really. I think I shall cry if they have reblocked the record player scene, I will be sitting on my hands at that point(Just that point? LOL) Do you want "spoilers" next week re scenery, costumes etc? Presuming there are a few "tweaks" etc

Volvo ladies came from an article about the last Donmar run that was printed in The Tatler. But, as I remember they were quoting the clowns at the Box Office...cause I called them on it when I went to get my TRT tickets...and James laughed!! They're a bunch of teasers...Can't wait to see them again :-D

Lizza, I�m so excited for you. Just to think that you�ll see him so soon! Don�t know about anybody else but I would very much like to hear every single detail you can tell us about your Saturday experience, it won�t spoil anything for me; I�ll devour it! (Lizza)I feel much more nervous, excited and generally emotional than I did in the week prior to our visit in March. That�s interesting (and almost scary), I�m expecting to be much less nervous and emotional this time!....But I know, things can change very much when January comes closer.

Hey..here's the count so far: 5 Ehleites going to Summerfolk on Thursday evening 4 Firthalites " " SLOW Premiere 4 " " " SLOW on Sat. night (am counting Mark's wife!) 3 " " " 3 DOR " Sat. matinee(am counting Lizza's mum) If I can keep my eyelids from collapsing and get a return ticket, I might go on to see 3 DOR on Wed. when I pick up the Jan. tickets...but no promises. ~~~~~~ I'm pretty proud of Springfolks!!

And Heide didn't think that anyone was going to go..... Oh ye of little faith, Heide!!:-D

Excuse me for being out of touch, but is it Aishling who is also going to the matinee? (Sorry if your name is not correct!)

BTW Valmont is on Film Four tomorrow night.

Identity of "mystery matinee" goer is solved. Thanks Evelyn.

VOTE NOW: BRITISH THEATRE WEBSITE Murph's website for Colin is one of the top four nominations for Best British Actor website. Go to it http://britishtheatre.about.com/arts/perfarts/britishtheatre/library/weekly/blabtwa2.htm

Wow, Murph! Nominated with TWO pages at once! And so well deserved. ;-) CONGRATS!!!

Do you want "spoilers" next week re scenery, costumes etc? Speaking for myself alone of course, WE WANT EVERYTHING. Yes, I am shouting here. We want to know what it was like being in the presence, the breathing, the smells, the voice, the look, the hands, the eyes. We want to know!

The feet!

LOL! ....The teeth?

And I realize many of you would like to forget about this particular little detail, but: Was Livia there, what was she wearing and how did she look and yes, were there any more bon mots from the feminine side of the alliance?? :-)