And how come was it possible to get an A row ticket on the second evening of the run?? Strange. Or did Evelyn knock someone down to get it?

Cathy, vote for him at Http://www.celebrity1000/actors.html. Thanks Lucie - couldn't get into the site just now, but I seem to be having problems getting into a few sites at the moment, including the one where I vote for Murhph (have done so previously but thought I would again). I'll try again later in the day. Evelyn, my heart started to beat faster when I read your post. I am all a dither and very green with envy ;-) Cathey

Thank you Karen for the post-haste! Evelyn! Did she mention SLOW and if he might attend? Was the audience enthusiastic? I have so many more questions. I look forward to lots more and of course, Lizza will be reporting too! Such an exciting time! Allison, with AOL I always use the right button on the mouse to cut and paste. The problem that I have with AOL is with the small icons on the keyboard such as apostrophes, quotations, etc. they just don t print.

Evelyn, well done! I didn't realise the homage season had begun. What a nice bloke that Firth is - don't you think he might be spoiled my mega movie-stardom (to sail dangerously close to the Dreaded Subject)? One certainly wouldn't be able to get 'A'-row seats if he were a big movie star. Anyway, I did my bit and voted for CF on that site. Mark and any other Londoners - I'll be scurrying frantically round London Weds Nov. 23 - Friday Nov. 25 looking for an affordable shoe-box to live in. Name the day, and we'll sink a couple of pints of Ruddles County, toast British beef and moan about the weather and the England cricket team. (Mark - how the hell can there be an injury crisis before they've set foot on a field?)

Ben, congrats re the job!! Hope you can join us in January, say do you like curry? I think Karen is the one to ask about such plans. Mind you i am partial to Ruddles myself! EXCELLENT news Evelyn, thanks Karen, it all sounds very "low key" in that lobby, I just can't picture it unfrenzied and not chock full of women totally conditioned to find men in frayed green jumpers completely sexy. I can't think of a nicer person for Colin to remember! Anyway full report coming later in the weekend but I promise I shall cry if they have moved the record player. I am front row , centre, so fingers crossed.

Not to worry about ticket sales and lack of frenzy in the lobby. As Evelyn said the ticket she got was on the side and it was a "return." I expect the lobby atmosphere is the difference between weekday and weekend crowds. People need to get out quickly during the week because they have work the next day. A lot more low key. Lizza, you're not the only one with recordplayer on the mind. The shock of when he came over to it. I'm sure I was shaking like a leaf. ;-D

Thank you Evelyn (and Karen!) for such a prompt report and photo. Evelyn, I'm very pleased that he remembered you instantly and that he came over and shook hands....does credit to both of you! I hope he's not too thin...his lovely wife should be feeding him up on pasta (and definitely not Kentucky Fried Chicken). Was Livia with him by the way? I guess she's seen 3DOR so many times by now. What's the significance of the record player?

I can't compete with meetings with the Man Himself, but I've a couple of snippets on the news front. Following Karen's excellent example (be proactive) I phoned BVI again to ask about MLSF in the UK. It will be released on May 5 (no more "tentatively"!). I spoke to their PR and asked what sort of release it would get. He said that it wasn't a "multiplex movie" and would have a gradual release, London, then nationwide (select nationwide, I presume) He expected it to be "around for some time" but not in the multiplexes. I mentioned that it would be out on video in the US in January and he seemed quite inte ested in this. So, another six months... Bridget Jones..front page news in the Independent. The launch of the new book (next week) is going to be mega...the launch party will be held on the 28th floor of the Hilton in Park Lane. Most significantly the book's PR will be handled by Matthew Freud, supposedly the Top Person's Top PR. He's related to Emma Freud, who is married to Richard Curtis, ex-boyfriend of HF, screenwriter of Blackadder , and also contributor to the script for "Bridget Jones:the movie" (the cast of which must be announced SOON! . So the Book is going to be high profile, and we can expect to see lots of mentions of HF, Bridget, the forthcoming movie and hopefully, by association Mark Darcy/CF. I'm beginning to realise that the promotion is as important as the actual product, and (washing my mouth out with soap and water!) I don't think ODB is the greatest self-promoter on the planet. He needs a little help from his friends!!The main reason I really want him to play MD is that this movie will be hyped...and it will be a multiplex movie (whatever that is!) On 3DOR...I don't really expect there to be any further publicity. Once plays have opened, that's it really...they just run. And London theatre crowds can be very blase about star names. Although I'll bet that the lobby will be livelier at the weekend!

(Bethan) What's the significance of the record player? Only it's location really. It was at the edge of the stage, within inches of my feet. Actually, I could have propped my feet up on the low stage. At the beginning of Act 2, Theo and Lina are having a row (!) on the upper level (meant to signify outside on the street) and Ned wants to drown out their noise. So he goes over to the recordplayer (remember, it's within reach), squats down (so he's eye to eye with whoever is sitting right there) and puts a record on. That's the significance. ;-D Thanks for the update on BJD-the sequel. So glad to hear it will be a media event. That will definitely stir up speculation as to the movie and when and if it's going to be made. How nice that ODB will be in London during the hoopla. You know what they say about being in the right place at the right time!! ;-D

http://www.firth.com/ is up again. Thanks, Terry. --------- I just will tell you that The Green Sweater is still with us and he is rail-thin. *sigh* *SIGH* That look is definitely one of my top favourites. Somebody will have to tie me to my row A seat, or else I will climb on the stage and embarrass everybody ...... . Thanks, Evelyn and Karen, for the subito report and pics. --------- Ben, congrats on your new job. How I envy you: to live and work in London! (Ben) Are you Firthing all of both evenings? I seem to remember some unseemly deal that the Donmar had offered, a million dollars to touch Colin's bottom or something; are you so occupied, or are there Firth-free plans for the Friday? Not all Firth pilgrims will be in the show on Friday (Jan. 14) night, I know of a handful who will take a quiet drink somewhere, though I doubt it will be a firth-free conversation. Hope you join - I want to pick your brain for guess what. ;-)

For the Friday/Saturday night Firthers, apres-play is great for a drink, if only we knew a place that didn't close up so early (remember?). However, we will be flying high (a la Jon the Trooping Fairy), so don't expect any of us to be our *normal* selves, whatever that might be.

Cathey, try http://www.Celebrity1000.com I just went there and it came up quickly. You can click on many sites to vote for your favorites. I had to enter some for Sammy Sosa and Mark Grace while I was there. I am so glad to have colinfirth.com back on track

if only we knew a place that didn't close up so early (remember?) Truly! Can't you "natives" think of a place for the group to meet up after the show? That would almost be worth the plane fare/flight through hell (pick one) to witness that. Not that that rail thin bod in a green sweater prevents keep me from coming. ODG Evelyn is such a trouper! She arrived Wednesday morning and is at the theatre to try for a return the same night? Lizza, here's a thought, but I don't want it to make you more nervous than you already are. If there were just a handful of people waiting in the lobby for him, would you still have the nerve to say hi? Strength in numbers but what an opportunity too. But don't worry, I'm sure the weekend show will attract masses in the lobby. Allison, I highlight the text, click Control C to cut and then Control V to paste. Any luck? Congratulations, Ben, on the new job. We know you're making this huge sacrifice just for us. We'll look forward to your weekly reports from the Firth turf.

Proxy review of MLSF by Anne Hale Well now what can I say. It was a wonderful, sometimes joyful film, funny and sad. Colin was wonderful, sometimes joyful, funny (he really has a great sense of the ridiculous and does not mind making a fool of himself for the sake of the film) he is a natural comic. The scenery was magnificent, I don't really know why Mirimax didn't promote more fully. Where he tries to put in central heating was so funny. The audience was in fits, and laughed throughout most of the film. The boy was a natural. I couldn't sleep much last night because the filmmakers used Colin's face so much to convey his thoughts - enormous close ups. His eyes, much better in a sense than P. and P. because it was on a very large screen. It was in a brand new theatre, and the sound wonderful, the seating - it was like sitting at home in a comfortable armchair. The theatre was half full and as it was Thursday late shopping night very good I thought. As I was waiting for Denis, I could hear people say they were going into to see M.L.S.F. - the centre has 16 cinemas so holds good I hope for a couple of weeks. But the close ups - I can't convey the tingling feeling that goes up one's spine. I hope you at least get to see the video. The highlands of Scotland (I have been there) is the most beautiful backdrop and the other firth fan with me and I sat at the end entranced with it all. Towards the end he stood looking at his son who was up to mischief and you saw the annoyance and perhaps anger change on his face into a half smile because he could see the funny side of what he was doing - and with the half smile a sight of that dimple. It will take me weeks to calm down.

Thank you, Anne (via Marcia). Sounds like it was received very well and is being treated like a mainstream film playing in a multiplex. Didn't you just cringe when they chewed on the asbestos? eeek!! I agree, Colin does comedy very well and so naturally.

She seems to have sunken into the Huge Colin Face stupor and is smiling very happily, thank you.

Allison, I highlight the text, click Control C to cut and then Control V to paste. Any luck? Magic! Thanks Heide. Also thanks to Anne for the great descriptions from MLSF. I really want to see this but the thought of having to wait until May....

Thanks Anne for your report! I'm very pleased to hear that MLSF is actually playing in a multiplex!! :-) One comment that the BVI PR person made (to which I now wish I'd made a feisty response) was that MLSF would "lose money in multiplexes" in the UK. It would lose money if it continues to receive a minimal level of promotion with a total lack of focus on CF, but with a bit of a push, it could do well. I would love to see MLSF in our local modern comfortable easy-parking multiplex rather than drive near y 20 miles to a city-centre art-house Pictureville with no adjacent parking. I'll phone BVI again in the New Year and take up the cudgels...and also ask why they're delaying the release! Good luck to everyone who will be seeinf SLOW today...I'm really looking forward to your (objective!) reviews. As you know, I have no confidence in our professional reviewers, the majority of whom now seem to be male twenty-somethings. I saw a clip from "Ratcatchers" the hit of LIFF. A group of boys bullying another miserable little boy, lots of F*** words, grim but very "real", I suppose :-(

Ben, how about the 23rd - I'll check which of the Fleet Street pubs serve Ruddles. Anybody else close enough to look in? Those England bowlers are so tuned and toned that one wrong move snaps all their taut tendons. Lovely to meet Springfolk for the first time yesterday - LDE was very fine in Gorky's Revolutionary miseryfest. Evelyn's schedule is something like this, it seems: Wed Arrive in England; evening, blag ticket for 3DOR Thu Matinee, Summerfolk; evening, Summerfolk Fri Matinee, SLOW; evening ? Sat Matinee, 3DOR; evening, SLOW. And I bet Friday evening isn't a blank (I shall call her Dame Evelyn from now on) Anyway, despite assurances to the contrary, I shall pop down to the NFT at lunchtime just to see if there is any spectacle.

(Mark) Evelyn's schedule is something like this, it seems: On the whole, rather full, but balanced. ;-D

New review of Three Days of Rain found by AnneR at the What's On Stage website: ------------------------------------------------- Three Days of Rain at the Donmar Warehouse So rich and resonant is Three Days of Rain that you suspect it might originally have been intended as a novel or screenplay. There is no doubt that Richard Greenberg's compelling family drama would have lent itself to whichever form he'd set his mind to. The prosaic title refers to a typical entry in the diary of recently deceased Ned Janeway, a celebrated American architect. His neurotic drop-out son Walker (Colin Firth) is hoping to inherit the family home - a world-renowned architectural masterpiece designed by Ned and his former partner, Theo - but it's the emotional legacy he should be worrying about. Having avoided his father's funeral, Walker has finally turned up in New York to confront his exasperated sister Nan (Elizabeth McGovern), and Theo's son Pip (David Morrissey), an actor in TV soaps and an old flame of Nan's. The three quarrel, make up, fondly recall the past and bemoan the present. After the interval, we retreat thirty years to meet the previous generation - Ned and Theo (played by Firth and Morrissey), and Lina (McGovern), the quick-witted, hard-drinking lover of both men, who combines the brittleness of Katherine Hepburn with the vulnerability of Blanche Dubois. What we learn about those 'three days of rain' makes it clear that this was some kind of understated metaphor for a time of turmoil in the lives of Ned and Theo. Slowly, you begin to understand how the sins of the fathers ave been visited on their luckless children. Greenberg may sometimes appear to indulge his obvious gift for one-liners, but they are usually consistent with the character speaking them and, as the play develops, any early flashiness gives way to solid story-telling and intelligent exposition. Robin LeFevre's production is cannily understated, allowing three exceptionally strong performances to carry the full force of the text. These are roles that any actor hungry for a challenge would give his or her eye teeth for. Firth, Morrissey and McGovern do not disappoint. Now that the Donmar's boss, Sam Mendes, has emerged as one of the hottest young directors in the States, perhaps we can expect a film version of Three Days of Rain before too long. If so, Mendes would be well advised to retain this tremendous trio. Nick Smurthwaite Date: 11 November 1999

Purple, then green in second place. Purple of course is red and blue mixed together.

So not only does Terry put "What's your favorite color" in Drool, he then posts into #123! Well, I did it, I goofed off work for over two hours and watched the world premiere of SLOW! I sneaked/snuck into the NFT on a return just as the main feature began, and as the credits rolled I thought of all those people who badgered the bank, and the distributors and the agents. Take a bow, ladies! I will post details of the film on the MLSF Spoilers topic for anyone who wants to know, but suffice to say that CF gets first billing, is the sympathetic (though flawed) male romantic lead, and shows no sign of thinning (shot 4 yrs ago?). Also there was a sold out theatre (maybe 20 seats empty out of 250), and a round of applause at the end, which may be less unusual at Film Festival screenings (and premieres) than the usual cinema.

Ooooo Evelyn! You go, girl. Thanks for proxy posting, Karen. Anyway ODB recognized me and came over and shook my hand Seven months and five roles later, ODB recognizes one of his fans. Whatta guy. I'm glad to hear you were able to get a definite date for MLSF, Bethan. Can't wait to hear more news from the Ritzy and Donmar! Hope you have a terrific time, Lizza!

Tee, hee, Terry! Oops! Thanks for your timely SLOW news, Mark. Good on ya! Am off to the MLSF topic.

After driving all the way to Scottsdale, guess what shows up on my doorstep this morning: MLSF!!! It is playing just around the corner at the local art house. I will be a MLSF watching fool all this weekend.

Great news, Jana! Just wait till you see the close-up at the end! I believe Anne is still recuperating.;-D Bethan, thanks for the BJD news. Maybe Ben with some acquaintance can go and report back.

Check out Mark's SLOW review everyone! I don't know if I'm breaching net etiquette by reporting something that appears at another site, but it relates to a public nor private sighting of CF, and if I am transgressing, I apologise! It's in a good cause. But apparently Colin appeared on a local television (Carlton) news programme today, as he took part in a protest in front of the Houses of Parliament, together with Corin Redgrave, on behalf of refugees and asylum seekers. They had a huge paper chain made up of messages from asylum seekers. There was a short live interview with Colin at 1.10pm. This would explain why he wasn't at the SLOW screening. I'm very impressed by his willingness to promote other people's interests.

Well I'm home, but Mark has beaten me to it. SLOW, is a sweet funny colourful film that leaves you with a smile on your face, its not going to win any Oscars, except, as Evelyn says,possibly in Nigeria, but it was most enjoyable. Nia Long was very good and very pretty and Colin was really cute, those dimples I have never noticed his dimples so much before. WOW. I want the video now. Someone said that Colin was not very pleased with SLOW but I saw nothing to be ashamed or disappointed about, It was just a really nice friendly feel-good film like they used to make and I look forward to owning the video. To answer some question earlier, yes the Donmar was sold out on Wednesday and is for the fnext 4 weeks. I have had a lovely time meeting up with Evelyn, ASishling & Tineke and Mark on Thursday and look forward to meeting more CF fans in January. I will also post my thoughts about SLOW on MLSF spoilers topic. Evelyn & Aishling are going again tomorrow and so is Tineke, thanks to Mark's generosity. OT Summerfolk was excellent as was the whole ensemble and played to a full house, not bad for a Russian author and on a Thursday night.

(Bethan)reporting something that appears at another site Bethan, what you�re reporting is very interesting and I�d like to know more. Please tell us where you found this information from....I mean, WHAT site are you referring to?

(Ann)yes the Donmar was sold out on Wednesday and is for the fnext 4 weeks Yippee! That�s great for Colin. And thanks Ann for your SLOW report, I�m so happy that you liked it. Was afraid that the film could be junk because of those bad reviews.

Just a quick post as it is all excitement and news on 123. I am meeting up with our wonderful "Dame" after the matinee so if ODB should descend for a ciabatta with pecorino or whatever it is he indulges in between shows, I am sure she will start the ball rolling Heide, I would not be able to approach him on my own, but Evelyn would spur any tremulous Firthette on!! Talk to you all soon. I am off to read about SLOW.

Hello from London Iam using Aishling's password since she remembered the URL...we are at a cyber cafe....... We attended the premiere of SLOW...almost a sell out....good film..Don't believe the reviews...comedy, sexy ...lots of good-Colin viewings.....he did not attend...as did no one else. Tineke joined us...Had great time with Mark at Summerfolk last night.... KaREN...have posters, press kit etc...Meet me in Chicago!! Place is closing ...G'night....Evelyn and Aishling......

Could I have the topic number again for the spoilers reviews? I'd love to read Mark's review. Thanks, Ann, for yours. If you want to read the whole report on Colin as an activist, I have it on my news page. http://www.geocities.com/firthfan/news2.html Murph And on that fav actor voting -- A good word for Russell Crowe, another of my favorites - he is splendid in The Insider. I highly recommend it.

Murph, the topic no. for SLOW is on MLSF spoilers page #121

Thanks, Murph!

Thanks, Evelyn, Aishling, Ann and Mark (hope I didn't forget anyone) for your exciting reports! I'm glad you all were able to hook up and had such a good time. Those of us who can't go take great pleasure in the play by play. Things always seem to come in a flood after a dry spell, don't they? Here we were short on Firth news and now we have reports on a new film and a siting of the man in the Flesh, all in one day! Evelyn, you are my hero and Mark, you get special points for playing hookey from work ;-). Lizza, can't wait to hear about your adventure. And JanaC, I hope you and Edward have fun this weekend :-).

The story, with small picture, of Colin's protest outside the House of Commons, is on teletext http://www.teletext.co.uk/

Good sleuthing, Allison! Thanks.

Yes, thanks so much for directing us to this, Allison.

Wow!! What a find, Allison. Look at the sadness on his face. Or is it disgust that reporter keeps calling him Mr. Darcy and has his age wrong? ;-D Here's the pic and article: Colin Firth campaigns for rights of refugees By Louise Burke Pride And Prejudice heart-throb Colin Firth got involved in politics today in a bid to stop what he calls the "inhumane" detention of asylum seekers. Firth, who played Mr Darcy, has joined the Refugee Council to launch a campaign against the Home Office crackdown on the growing number of people wanting sanctuary in the UK. He said: "I think it's shameful that we, as a country, can arbitrarily arrest people who have committed no crime - it's absolutely terrible." Firth, 38, is backing Refugee Week, set up by the Refugee Council. "We have a great deal to gain from people who come to claim asylum - we can become much more culturally diverse," he told TV Plus. "We have this morbid fear of the outside world where we feel that we don't want to be submerged by hordes. This is an utterly false perception." He says it was a Nigerian refugee's story that urged him to join the pressure group the Refugee Council. Firth, who spent the first four years of his life in Nigeria, spoke about a 19-year-old detainee who was turned away by immigration officials at Heathrow Airport. "He escaped Nigeria only to be put under arrest at the airport in England. He wasn't a criminal. He was a legitimate political objector. It's a shameful way to treat people." 12/11/99

Thank you Allison, Karen, and Murph! Very good work!

From the Guardian (no pics online): Protest role Actor condemns detention of asylum seekers Saturday November 13, 1999 Pride and Prejudice actor Colin Firth yesterday led a protest involving MPs and religous leaders against the government's plans to extend the use of detention for asylum seekers, writes Alan Travis. Mr Firth joined Labour MP Neil Gerrard and Lib-Dem MP Evan Harris outside parliament in a paper chain made from 800 pledges of support, representing the number of asylum seekers held in detention. The Refugee Council said Britain detains more asylum seekers without judicial review and for longer than any other country in Europe. Oakington army barracks, near Cambridge, is to be used as a short-term detention centre for up to 400. Mr Firth said: "It is shameful that a country calling itself civilised detai s hundreds of people a year coming here in search of liberty." The protest coincided with the immigration and asylum bill receiving its royal assent. The home secretary, Jack Straw, said it would it would produce a fairer, faster and firmer asylum system.

Wow, the day's just begun and already so much excitement happening! Thanks to everyone for the reports and news info. What an amazing team:-)

If the media keep referring to him as Mr. Darcy, I am afraid he will not want to play Mark Darcy. Has he not wanted to shed the Mr. Darcy image. FGS, he is currently in a sold out play, he was in this year's BP Oscar winning film. I understand his frustration. Thanks again, Karen!

A new article about Bridget Jones: http://www.thisislondon.com/dynamic/lifestyle/top_review.html?in_review_id=227425&in_review_text_id=176482

(Moon) If the media keep referring to him as Mr. Darcy, I am afraid he will not want to play Mark Darcy. Apparently the media is afraid no one will know him if they don't refer to P&P in some way. Now if they'd just do us all a favor and put Colin on the covers of all their magazines with news of his latest work, he might gain recognition for his other roles. Not everyone is as diligent as we in scouring the news for signs of Firth. (BTW, this is not a diatribe on the Firth Fame Factor.) Thanks for the news on Bridget, Renate.

Hotfoot from the Donmar and Covent Garden meeting with Evelyn, Aishling and Tineke.But had to post before falling exhausted into bed. All I want to say is that superlatives fail me!!! All of you are familiar with the speech that Lizzie gives in her scene with Wickham after the proposal rejection about knowing Darcy better etc etc So really I felt all of those things, he is just an amazing actor and he has obviously worked on this role (EMG take note, ooops slap my hand!)to add nuances and subtle layers to the characters. My mother was so impressed with (him) and the whole production that she wants to make the trek again! She described him as "boyish" and I think because he is "rail thin" to quote our favourite Dame, he has the quality even more this time around!!

He does not smoke , for those of you desperate to know, Livia was not there either, or any family or famous names.(How was I calm enough to notice?) The foyer was deserted and he does NOT come down (said box office) in between shows. I saw someone go up with carrier bags of deli food. Anyway he is just gorgeous and the record player has not moved, so I sat on my hands, and anyone with a future visit coming up will be in for an incredible tour de force. This is extremely disjointed for which I apologise, and I will let you know further details (no changes re costumes/ scenery) tomorrow. BTW his flies held up!! Expressive hands EVEN more in evidence in Act 1, and our honoured dame Evelyn and I would count that as one of the changes we noticed. His interpretation of Walker has altered, but hey I could watch this man reciting "Maybe it's because I'm a Londoner." in Chinese wearing a bin liner and think it was a work of art, so I would say that I prefer act 2. But I needed a third showing to decide that. Either way it was wonderful, with a very appreciative audience (not full). Hope that is enough for the more voracious Firthettes out there. Have b/w Guardian photo so could scan and send.

(Lizza) but hey I could watch this man reciting "Maybe it's because I'm a Londoner." in Chinese wearing a bin liner and think it was a work of art LOL!! As could we all. Your writing tells me you're flying high - near the ceiling! Wonderful to read that it just keeps getting bettah and bettah. That mention about Mendes and a movie of this got me thinking. Keep Colin and replace the other two. Can't remember if I mentioned it on the boards but Janet McTeer (who in real life is svelte) would be a fabulous Nan/Lina. Saw her in a little indie flick called Tumbleweeds and she can do a fabulous southern accent. Lizza, do scan and send the Guardian pic to me and I'll post it for you.

So glad it was everything you expected and more. I'll wait patiently to hear the rest of your tale. Your mother has fine taste, obviously passed down to daughter. Any eye contact at the record player? ;-) There will be many very happy to hear that the stage set has not changed. Bed still in same location? Sorry, I said I'll be patient. Pleasant dreams, Lizza.

Thanx Lizza, love your report. 2 questions for the morning #1., do you mean you do not like the new interpretation of Walker as much as in March and #2 has he worked on the stuttering and is it more pronounced this time around. BTW good for Mum, as Heide says. she obviously has good taste. appreciative audience (not full) why are the Donmar not advertising, they surely can't rely entirely on word of mouth

(Lizza), Expressive hands EVEN more in evidence in Act 1, and our honoured dame Evelyn and I would count that as one of the changes we noticed. He must be spending lots of time with the Italian relatives. ;-) Lizza, your kindness in posting so quickly is very much appreciated, thank you. We will tune in tomorrow for more. Questions will come later.

appreciative audience (not full) why are the Donmar not advertising The word is that it's all sold out. Occasional empty seats may be due to something else.

Ah yes, the stuttering!! Glad you brought it up, Ann. Is it more pronounced? Also, how's his accent? Does it sound as though he's improved? (not like he's been in the States at all Other important point(s)... does he still only take off the sweater? What is he wearing to bed? ;-D

Lizza, I also want to thank you for being so quick to post your thoughts about the play, I so much looked forward to hear them! AND thanks very much to all of you who posted stuff about his refugee campaign.

Not that I'm jumping the gun, but this always comes up: The Olivier Awards--The judging year runs from January 1 to December 31 1999. Any new production that opens in a theatre represented in membership of the Society is eligible for consideration, provided it is proposed and seconded by members of the Society. The nominations are announced in January each year and the Awards are presented in February at a ceremony televised by BBC Television.

Great to see so many questions, so I will do my best to answer all of them. 1) bed in same location but when he comes on at first, instead of lying with his head by those row A side seats (I should know!) he now lies centrally on the bed. I don't blame him for getting this reblocked because sitting next to my mum were two silly ladies who started making gestures and noises when he came to lie down, Even Tineke noticed it from above. It's so off putting for him, but I guess they've got volvos! So at least he is as far away from audience as he could be, given bed's location. 2) In terms of it not being full, the best seats were all gone. I am talking side seats upstairs, maybe 10/15 free. Evelyn says box office say sellout for first four weeks. I have just enquired in the period after that and only the central stalls block has sold out. But I am sure they won't have a problem selling them.

3) His accent is as consistent and natural as ever. I felt DM was better all round as well, D. Ev. is not so sure! I have to say IMO both men have worked on their performances but I felt E.MG hadn't changed at all, and so it appears a weaker performance this time round. Stuttering is good, but not so much of it. Can anyone help? He didn't stutter at all after Theo leaves in act2, was that the same in march? Anyway the stuttering is not as much in evidence, is how it seems to me. 4) The sweater is the same. I was concerned that he got quite "pink" and almost sweaty in act 1, I wish he wouldn't wear the t-shirt under the sweater but something lighter. I wouldn't want his skin to get all scratchy fom just the sweater but I think it's all a bit heavy for him. Which leads me neatly into the final point about why he gets sweaty in the first place!!

5) Evelyn and I had a great discussion re the major change, which IOO was his interpretation of Walker. He has made him much more neurotic, twitchy and "in pain". We both felt tho' that it was just a few degrees too much and preferred March. Obviously as Moon says too much time with Italian relatives, but then, ironically, of course that is where Walker has been!! But the effect of (over) fine tuning his act I performance means that the contrast with act 2 is really heightened and I think that this is an advantage. It makes you even more aware of how he uses his body to convey Ned in act 2 because there is much more of a contrast, as Ned he is as economical with his movements and gestures as he is with words. You will have to make your own minds up. Of course we both saw this in its first week so his interpretation may have subtly altered again nearing the end of the run. This is why he gets so warm!! But talking of taking off his clothes I am sorry to disappoint Heide and say he only takes off the shirt again but at least he is facing the front row when he does it and pulls the white t- shirt over the waist band of his trousers. Anyway I think that is enough of the ramblings of a deranged woman for you to have to listen to. I will fill you in on all the "lovely bits" that come from being mere inches away later today and sort out the scanning for Karen.

Great to hear all the reports on 3DOR and SLOW, and details of the protest. Thank you everyone! I have just enquired in the period after that and only the central stalls block has sold out. But I am sure they won't have a problem selling them. I just do so wish that he would give an interview and that he'd talk about all his upcoming projects, and there would be some photo coverage. If, for example,I just read the Daily Telegraph, I would have no idea that he was appearing on the stage at the moment. That's one problem with a re-run...no reviews. And the Donmar only list the title of the play (no mention of the cast)and don't advertise. Pity...they had all those great reviews to draw on. I'm finding reading the papers rather a penance at the moment, because, (and I hate to say this!!) the "smolderingly handsome" Ralph Fiennes is EVERYWHERE. Colin, not a peep. I notice that one article refers to RF's publicist. Does Colin have a publicist? Answer, probably, no!! Does anyone know if there'll be any advance publicity for SLOW? Otherwise reading papers is definitely not good for my health!!

Take heart Bethan, in The Sunday Times in the Metro section 3DOR is listed at The Donmar with CF, E.mcG & DM., it is only included among all the other Theatre but at least it mentions the cast.

Further to the above (hope it didn't sound too negative! It's the Fiennes reaction!) I think Colin will benefit from two huge "free" publicity boosts in the next month or so. Onw, appearing in ITV's major Boxing Day drama, which will attract an audience of at least 10 million. And The Master has to be sexy! (Those 10 minutes will have to be good!) And the Dome has sold over a million tickets (Skyscrape/Blackadder included). And, of course, what I'd like to see..."Firth to play Darcy again. Colin Firth, currently apperaing in the acclaimed production of 3DOR at the Donmar, is to play the part of Mark Dacy in the forthcoming movie of Bridget Jones' Diary". Well, it could happen...:-)

Just want to thank everyone for all the news. I have put the protest picture (thanks, Allison) on my news page. Karen, he does look sad, with a bit of Darcy's disgusted face. I am so proud of him. I am an old anti-Vietnam war protester, and I know that it takes courage to stand out on the street and to stand up for what you believe in. Lizza, how I wish I could see 3DOR. I live in hope Mendes might some day make a film of it. Murph

Bethan, I too am all "Rafed out" from reading the papers, and as you say no Firth snippet in sight. I hope your publicity predictions come true!!

(Mary) I am so proud of him. My feelings exactly, Murph. I really appreciate it what he�s doing.

(Lizza) He has made him much more neurotic, twitchy and "in pain". We both felt tho' that it was just a few degrees too much and preferred March. Hmmmm, been wondering what *the change* was. Just so long as he doesn't take it all the way to wild, raging histrionic, then I won't mind. How did he express the "in pain" aspect, other than the scene where he's sprawled up above and draped over the railings while Nan and Theo talk? Tell me that he hasn't lost his glibness or his playful manner in torturing the unsuspecting Pip. (Bethan) Ralph Fiennes is EVERYWHERE. Yes, because he has 3 big films ready to hit the screens now and is going to be doing Shakespeare next year. Since two of the films have been hard sells to US distributors and the whole family's reputation is on the line with another, he's knows what he has to do. He has to promote them and he has been doing that. BTW, I saw the previews for "End of the Affair" (with Julianne Moore) at the theater - Why does he keep getting those parts? Major love and passion as a focal point and now I read there's li tle chemistry between RF & JM. Sounds like another film... Unfortunately, I don't think the 10-minute appearance in TOTS and probably the same (or less) in the new Blackadder are going to do much for him. He wasn't even mentioned in the 5-page article on Blackadder that Ann sent me. :-(

I don't believe it! There's a big interview with Francesca Annis in the Sunday Times where she discusses her relationship with Ralph. He'll definitely be making the circuit on the talk shows. Am already conjuring up images of Rafe with Regis and Kathie Lee!! ;-D

If, for example,I just read the Daily Telegraph, I would have no idea that he was appearing on the stage at the moment. I find What's On in London most helpful whenever I want to know what's going on in there. Most other publications tend to be selective.

Unfortunately, I don't think the 10-minute appearance in TOTS and probably the same (or less) in the new Blackadder are going to do much for him. He wasn't even mentioned in the 5-page article on Blackadder that Ann sent me. :-( It's the timing of TOTS....massive captive audience all slumped in front of the television. (remember, we don't go to the movies!). Syon House, of which CF is the Master, is a beautiful location, Nick Dear wrote the script (also adapted "Summerfolk"), it's directed by Ben Bolt (son (?)of Robert Bolt ("Man for All Seasons). and the cinematographer was responsible for the recent "Our Mutual Friend". Ten minutes in this is well worth having. And, to make the governess's future actions credible, she has to be ome infatuated with the Master, despite their very short acquaintance. As to Blackadder, well, CF is usually mentioned. And it's a bit of an honour really to be included with all the original cast. Very much a closed shop! And again, Blackadder Redux is an "event" movie...otherwise it wouldn't have been chosen to herald the new millennium! Lizza, yep, too much Rafe.Every time I turned over a page...aargh!! :-) Did you notice that the publicist apparently vets journalists to ensure they give a favourable report? Probably standard practice. BTW, back to basics, how was the hair? Noticeably thin on top, or okay (not that it matters! :-)). And audience reaction at the end...a good round of applause, I hope! I'm very pleased that a man who apparently is very reluctant to promote himself, is willing to speak live on TV to promote the interests of others who need support.

Lizza, thanks so much for your report! I am amazed that Colin was able to find the time to make substantive changes to the part, given that he's been working nonstop on so many different projects since the March run. I really hope he gets an Olivier nomination, even if Dillane or O'Toole are favored to win.

Lizza, thanks for the insights! It will be interesting to see as you said, if he makes more changes by Jan. Has the scene in bed with EMG changed? Did you wait to see him after the show, or was everyone sent off? Karen, I too have seen the previews to that RF film. Why do they consider him a romantic lead? Then again, the same goes for Hugh Grant. Quite baffling!

Lizza, did this latest interpretation of Walker mare you enjoyment overall of the play, and this may sound strange but did you feel embarrassed with this new Walker. I liked his dry droll sense of humour last March, has that all gone. (Is it still an award-winning (nomination) performance? Also what did you think of DM's performance and I am not quite sure if you think EMcG performance has improved or not.

(Lizza)Stuttering is good, but not so much of it. Can anyone help? He didn't stutter at all after Theo leaves in act2, was that the same in march? My memory of it is that his stuttering was less noticable after Theo left. Either that or I had gotten used to it. But it wasn't really stuttering last March...it was more of a halting, herky-jerky type speech. Would you say that's the same? But the effect of (over) fine tuning his act I performance means that the contrast with act 2 is really heightened and I think that this is an advantage. It makes you even more aware of how he uses his body to convey Ned in act 2 because there is much more of a contrast, as Ned he is as economical with his movements and gestures as he is with words. Well put, and I can envision that. I wonder though why he felt the need to display the contrast even more starkly. Didn't feel it was enough last time? (Karen) Tell me that he hasn't lost his glibness or his playful manner in torturing the unsuspecting Pip. Yes, I'd hate to see him so entirely obsessed with himself that he loses the one thing that makes his character remotely endearing. I am sorry to disappoint Heide and say he only takes off the shirt again Hey, that was Karen who wanted to know that superficial kind of stuff. I'm more interested in the important things like the hair. ;-) I second Bethan's request to know more about that. Tineke might be able to add insight if she was sitting in the circle seats. (Bethan) I'm very pleased that a man who apparently is very reluctant to promote himself, is willing to speak live on TV to promote the interests of others who need support. It's so apparent his support is not just for the fashionable cause of the month. He uses his fame reluctantly but knows it helps keep this issue in the news. (Karen)Am already conjuring up images of Rafe with Regis and Kathie Lee!! ;-D Are you hinting that he's courting publicity? :-o Well, he missed out on People's Sexiest Man Alive so maybe he and Francesca can try for the Most Beautiful Couple issue.

Are you hinting that he's courting publicity? Hinting? Pftttt! He is definitely doing it for Onegin. Think I heard he has signed on to do celebrity valet parking at the Russian Tea Room next month. ;-D

Think I heard he has signed on to do celebrity valet parking at the Russian Tea Room next month. ;-D LOL!

Reminder: Besides interrogating Lizza on 3DOR here, we are also giving Ann the third degree at Topic 121 for Secret Laughter of Women so hie to there if you want to hear more.

Some quick answers before I have to rush off, which I hope will suffice. Hair the same as we saw in March and because I have gotten used to his patch I can honestly say I didn't notice it this time. My mum did but diplomatically said she wasn't going to mention it unless I did (Evelyn , Tineke and I did discuss it). I did notice the light glinting on just a few silver strands at the sides of his hair during the record player scene, all I could think of was "Wow I am close enough to see this!! Evelyn had a comment, which I will let her add. He is still playful etc and it didn't mar my enjoyment at all, he is just more energetic, loud, angry, gesturing etc as Walker than before. DM I felt was also better in his role but Ann as you can tell I am no EMG fan. I just feel both men but particularly ODB had searched to find something, another dimension to add to their character this time around. She seemed flat to me. Of course the men in the audience warm to her, and there were a lot more there yesterday in contrast to when we went in March. The audience also seemed to laugh more. I think they were very appreciative of the play and Colin smiled a lot and looked pleased (and surprised?) when they took a second bow. It's that final bit that slays me because as he rakes the audience with his eyes there is that glorious nano-second when your eyes meet ! DM leads the cat off, I had he impression it was the opposite in March?

I feel like something of an interloper intruding upon your conversation. My name is Cheryl and I've been lurking through your achives. I'm rather pressed for time now; so in brief, I think Colin Firth is a really good actor and I'll probably never get to see on stage. My chances of getting to London are fat and slim.

I will just add a few more moments that were special to me or things that I had time to closely observe. His boots were Timberland and I tried really hard to read the size off the bottom of the sole-no luck! The laces were frayed too and when he stood up for the first time one trouser leg was caught up in the top of his trouser leg, he looked endearingly lopsided. On the back of his jumper was a piece of white cotton thread and I wanted to jump up and pluck it off! DM had a huge strand of it on the back of his trouser leg too, Do you suppose they all recline in white fluffy bath robes in the dressing room and the bits get transferred to their costumes? LOL! I was close enough to see his eyes sparkle, the whites looked luminous it was just weird (and wonderful) to be so close. When Pip and Nan chat on the bed and he is outside sitting up on the rail he is continually working the muscles in his jaw and cheekbone and swallowing a lot, this conveys his anger and pain, but could so easily have been left out by another actor. I love the way he hugs the rail for support etc and is just huddled there. Of course you would need to be like us to notice all that because the audience are focused on the others! I was sorry he had his back to me when Nan and Pip reveal their relationship. Anyone see that in March? You would have to be on the side I guess. Just an aside re today's Rafe interview (observer?), I found it highly amusing. They had to walk in the park to get away from everyone, he doesn't like fame etc and then in the cafe the waitress aks for his autograph. LOL Eventually he rushes outside as he can't cope with it all, journalist note taking and talking about himself. Give me a man with a cause to stand up for any day! Sorry that's RF and EMG I have been negative about.

Welcome Cheryl, we love sharing anything about Colin here. The more the merrier.

Cheryl Join in and please don't feel like you're intruding if you do. And there are many here who will not likely get to London to see Colin in person. So you're not in a minority. Lizza! Your attention to detail is truly amazing. Silver hair spotted at the sides. Yowza. This I must be on the lookout for, as well as all those holes in his ears. So much to remember. I'm not too keen on that he's made Walker more "energetic, loud, angry, gesturing." I liked his controlled anger and how he could subtlely manipulate everyone without appearing to be a raving lunatic. ;-D That was my problem with the Chicago actor; he was way too histrionic. Do you think we should go armed with lint brushes to pick up the stray threads here and there? ;-D

After a rather eventful voyage (subway in London, train to Dover with half an hour delay because of other train blocking the tracks, bus through Kent because there were engineering works going on, hovercraft to Calais since I just missed my ferry to Ostend by 5 minutes and the next ferry didn't leave until 5pm and obviously I didn't feel like waiting in Dover for 6 hours, ending up in France without any French Francs, calling sister to pick me up in Calais -it's about an hour drive- being dropped off at t ain station because of bike, cycle home)I managed to get home. And now, my impressions of my London trip: It was wonderful to meet up with Ann, Dame Evelyn, Aishling and Mark to see Summerfolk (even though I couldn't find the restaurant at first). I truly enjoyed the play, I'm extremely glad I got to see it. When I was buying a programme during the break, someone we all know came to stand on my right: Toby Stephens!! Having seen him in real life now, I can only say that he's gorgeous! I didn't dare say anything to him, but he must have noticed that I recognised him. At the National Theatre I also saw (but not during Summerfolk) Susannah Harker's sister. I forgot her name though, but remembered her from Middlemarch. On Friday, I saw SLOW with Evelyn, Ann and Aishling. It was far from sold out, I'm afraid. I enjoyed SLOW, it's a sweet movie, not pretentious, but definately not the best film I've ever seen. Colin looked great, all women seemed to play with his hair in this film (which looked very curly). I saw SLOW a second time on Saturday evening (thanks to Mark!). This time I concentrated on the details. I finally saw those pierced ears;-) Then, I saw 3DOR on Saturday afternoon. I was sitting in row A, circle, just above the bed. I had a clear view of everything (including his hair). I kept on thinking during the very first scene, when he's lying on the bed, that if he'd open his eyes, he'd be looking straight at me. Obviously, I loved the play. Colin was fantastic!!! (Lizza)next to my mum were two silly ladies who started making gestures and noises when he came to lie down, Even Tineke noticed it from above. When I collected my ticket at the box office, I saw those ladies handing a card to James to give it to Colin. So I knew they were CF fans, but that shaking of the hands when Colin came on stage was a bit over the top! I'm off to bed now.

Glad to hear you eventually arrived home safe and sound Tineke. It was good to see you again too. Sorry to contradict, however, but I thought SLOW was pretty full on Friday, definitely more, way more than 2/3 thirds full.

Tineke, welcome back. When you're rested, run over to topic 123. So many questions to SLOW we deprived ones have. Your trip sounds so wonderful that I hope even the problems getting home haven't gotten you off your cloud yet. A Welcome to CherylB. No interloper at all. We're glad you introduced yourself and hope you continue to join us. As Karen said, most of us won't have the same chances to see CF in the flesh but it's fun to live vicariously off the experiences of other. Now...Lizza, I continue to revel in your 3DOR stories. I just feel both men but particularly ODB had searched to find something, another dimension to add to their character this time around. Doesn't sound like you didn't like this new dimension, Lizza. Why should I be surprised that he works so hard at his craft? I guess I'm just impressed again and again. It's that final bit that slays me because as he rakes the audience with his eyes there is that glorious nano-second when your eyes meet ! Yes, I remember..you wait, it comes, then it's over. His boots were Timberland and I tried really hard to read the size off the bottom of the sole-no luck! Good girl! Good try. he looked endearingly lopsided. ..piece of white cotton thread and I wanted to jump up and pluck it off! He should let you dress him, Lizza. When Pip and Nan chat on the bed and he is outside sitting up on the rail he is continually working the muscles in his jaw and cheekbone and swallowing a lot, this conveys his anger and pain, but could so easily have been left out by another actor. I never noticed that before. It's such an intense performance. I wonder if he can shake out of his Walker character in time to become Ned. (Tineke) I kept on thinking during the very first scene, when he's lying on the bed, that if he'd open his eyes, he'd be looking straight at me. Does it still open the same way? I'm sure it does. The stage is all in darkness and you can see him (we all recognized his silhouette) walk to the bed in the dark and lay down. Then that voice... I'm so glad you liked it, Tineke. (Karen) Silver hair spotted at the sides. Yowza. This I must be on the lookout for, as well as all those holes in his ears. Write it all down, girl, for the sake of your forlorn sisters left behind. As you may have noticed, I'm living on each piece of minutia that can be dredged up.

Sorry, Tineke, I meant that it's 121 where we're discussing SLOW. Only to keep the spoilers out of sight for those who have plans to see it.

(Cheryl) I'll probably never get to see on stage. My chances of getting to London are fat and slim. Well put--and many of us are in that boat. That's what the drool buckets here are for. that glorious nano-second when your eyes meet ! Words to live by! Lizza and Tineke -- How about the voice in person? Is it as rich, as resonant, as breath-taking, as squirm-making as on the films? Does the American accent make a difference? I thought it did in ATA--flatter and higher pitched. What do his hands look like? If you could see the silver hair, you must have had a good view of his hands. What was his curtain-call smile like--one of his trademark grins? Did he really look at the audience--you imply so with the above quote. How many curtain calls?

Do you suppose they all recline in white fluffy bath robes in the dressing room and the bits get transferred to their costumes? LOL, Lizza! I can just picture this. I was close enough to see his eyes sparkle, the whites looked luminous it was just weird (and wonderful) to be so close. That must have been truly amazing. Did you say you had the seat directly in front of the record player? I think I actually would be terrified to be that close -- afraid I would involuntarily do something that would distract him. I'm a bit confused. Did you say at some point (the bed scene with EMcG?) he takes off his t-shirt? So is he bare-chested then? Or is it just the sweater that comes off? Welcome, Cheryl. I won't be making it to London anytime soon either, but this board is the next best thing to being there:-) (Tineke) When I was buying a programme during the break, someone we all know came to stand on my right: Toby Stephens! Looks like JE is on friendly terms with *all* her ex's;-D Thanks for your report, Tineke, and glad you made it home safely. Do you agree with the assessment that Colin's portrayal of Walker seemed to be turned up a notch or two from March? What did you think of EMcG and DM compared to March?

Oops, sorry about the tags.

New review (by Nigel Cliff, a different Times reviewer). No picture included online. Please check actual paper on Monday and let us know. The return of a starry cast to the Donmar Three Days of Rain Donmar Warehouse, London WC2 BACK in March Three Days of Rain put in a brief appearance as part of the Donmar's American Imports season. It returns for a longer spell in the same poised production, stylishly directed by Robin Lefevre, and with the same splendid cast. Colin Firth, Elizabeth McGovern and David Morrissey play a couple of parts apiece, and out of the six at least two (from Firth and McGovern) had me throwing my critical umbrella to the wind. As for the other four: well, they lose out to different degrees in the grand scheme of Richard Greenberg's likeable but sometimes surface-deep script. The first half is set in 1995; the second rewinds to 1960. In the first, brother and sister Walker and Nan (Firth and McGovern) reunite with intimate friend of the family Pip (Morrissey) for the reading of their father's will. Walker is a neurotic dropout who lays his failings firmly at his parents' feet. Pip, whom Walker resents for being closer to his father than himself, is happy with his lot as a second-rate soap actor. Nan - well Nan is little more than a buffer between the other two. Fair enough and all perfectly well played, but all really an excuse for Walker to chance upon his father's journal. "Three days of rain" is the first entry: its inscrutability incenses him. "When people never talk to you, you always suppose they are harbouring some enormous secret - but maybe they have nothing to say," he digs away. Or maybe they do, but in a different way. In the second half the trio play their characters' respective parents. Here Firth and Morrissey are struggling architects Ned and Theo. Theo is theoretically the flamboyant genius, Ned the practical dogsbody, though again appearances fall short of the truth. McGovern plays a flirtatious, hard-drinking, self-aware Southern girl who has an affair with one and then, during that three-day downpour, the other. Greenberg, I imagine, wants to show how easily the old folk, trying to make the best of their own limitations, can be misunderstood by their children, convinced of their own larger emotional life. Fittingly then, the second half is much more vivid than the first; this is where Firth and, especially, McGovern really come into their own, playing off each other with a touching blend of awkwardness and allure, misgiving and giving. Greenberg's script throws up its multiple reflections with a pleasingly light touch and a gentle ironic wit. Hardly ground-breaking, but a welcome revival nonetheless. ******** I'm sorry, but the only reason these "guys" like McGovern's performance in Act 2 has to be the slip she wears. ;-D

should have been McGovern and especially FIRTH, but it is still pretty good and from the sounds of it the contrast between Walker and Ned seems to be working.

(Ann), from the sounds of it the contrast between Walker and Ned seems to be working. True, but I wonder if he might have prefered the March version of Walker. Colin has obviously changes it to make more of a contrast with Ned. Still, I am happy that it is a good review. Thanks Karen! Tineke, thanks for your post, glad you made it home safely. Lizza, love those minute, but important details!

Welcome, CherylB! You'll find yourself in good company here. Lizza and Tineke, are your feet touching the ground yet? Many thanks for your prompt reports and opinions. I was wondering how the play would compare with its earlier run. (Lizza) He does not smoke Glad to hear it. I appreciate reports on this and the other *really* important stuff, such as the state of his hair (:-P). To echo Heide and others, no detail is too small, such as BTW his flies held up!! ;-D So he's 'rail thin,' huh? Thinner than he was in March? Jess (ATA) thin? (Karen) Silver hair spotted at the sides. Yowza. This I must be on the lookout for, as well as all those holes in his ears. Hee hee! Have you got your opera glasses ready? (Karen) The Olivier Awards You've read my mind. I thought of this as soon as I heard they were bringing the play back for a longer run. Have fingers and toes firmly crossed (ever try typing with crossed fingers?) for a nomination, at least! (Karen) Am already conjuring up images of Rafe with Regis and Kathie Lee!! ;-D Hmmm, let's see: Kathie Lee: Welcome, Ralph (pronounces it 'Ralph'). I've been dying to tell you how much I loved your performance in Shakespeare in Love. Ralph: That was my brother. KL: You have a brother? It's sooo important to appreciate one's siblings. That's what I told Cody this morning after he hit Cassidy over the head with her Barbie doll. Regis: You're from England...can you tell me how my show--you've heard of it, of course--[turns to camera and shouts] Who Wants to be a Millionaire!--compares with the British version? I'm saving the ABC network, you know. Ralph: No, I didn't know. I stopped watching game shows after I did the movie Quiz Show. Um, can we discuss my new project...? Regis: That's too bad, that's too bad. Well, it was nice to have you. When we come back, we'll be joined by our next guest, Mr. Joe Schmo who won $250,000 on my show [turns to face camera and shouts] Who Wants to be a Millionaire! (Karen) I'm sorry, but the only reason these "guys" like McGovern's performance in Act 2 has to be the slip she wears. ;-D I've been trying to figure that out. Thanks for the insight! Really, it has to be something! I've tried to like her in Scarlet Pimpernel, but so far she hasn't impressed me with her performance in that series. I'm looking forward to more, Lizza and Tineke!

ROTFLOL Eileen! how was the hair? Noticeably thin on top, or okay (not that it matters! :-)). Since I was sitting in the circle, I head a clear view of the crown of his head. Especially when he's playing Ned, it was clear to see that his hair is thinning, but like you say, it doesn't matter. Susan, I can't compare his performance now to the one in March, since this was the first time I got to see 3DOR. About EMcG, I didn't think she was bad. She just lacks this...hm, I can't phrase it.. she lacks warmth. I don't think her acting was bad, it just doesn't come across. BTW, I didn't know people wore thongs in the sixtees ;-)

*squint* *double take* Tineke, what's this about a thong?

Holy moly!! Eileen, that was a riot. Am wiping away the tears from eyes. And what's so funny is that that's exactly the way it would go. Later on in the day, Rafe could go on Rosie's show, where she would ask if he knew or wanted to work with her Tommy boy. ;-D (Tineke) BTW, I didn't know people wore thongs in the sixties ;-) I'm guessing, but is that what she's wearing under the slip? Now, if only Colin (Ned) would wear something equally provocative to bed instead of his white undershirt. grrrrrrrr Opera glasses are going to look rather silly from the front row. Hey, but I'm game. ;-D

Karen, the best thing to do with The Scarlet Pimpernel is to give up. We watched it episode after episode, thinking "BBC costume drama, classic swashbuckling story, big-name actors, maybe it's good and we're just not smart enough to enjoy it." But at the end of the day, we were forced to the conclusion that EMcG is dull, Richard E Grant is a moron, and the show was a turkey.

Has anyone checked The Times today to see if there was a photo with the review of 3DOR?

Thank you very much for all your reviews of SLOW and reports from the Donmar! They are read with eager interest. On the Guardian site is a brief summary with picture for SLOW, status "unreleased", but there's an option to post own reviews: Love it or loathe it? - Tell us what you think. http://www.filmunlimited.co.uk/Film_Page/0,4061,101624,00.html (Come to think of it, IMDB also has such an option. All the lucky ones who saw it, get yourself over there .... ;-) )

And here's an article from the same place, from February. Guess it's not so new, but can't hurt to re-read it again. ;-) http://www.filmunlimited.co.uk/Feature_Story/Guardian/0,4120,28696,00.html