Allison, the SLOW poster is shown at the top of my page (and rolled up in my home): http://www.spring.net/~KarenR/mdbro/slow1.html Also, the pic of Colin's feet (among the tomatoes) is on the main Drool page. The other quote is from Women's Journal.

Evelyn said: Bottom Line: Colin's acting talent is not taken seriously despite the excellent reviews.He is still viewed as a heart-throb which is incongruous with a good actor, it seems. I disagree heartily. If this were true, he would never have been nominated. He is a film and television actor, not a stage actor with anything like the chops of the competitors with whom he was placed. He must be over the moon to be in such company. His performance was terrific and clearly the critics felt that he was in the same class as Goodman, Dillane, and Sheen. You should be pleased for him.

I'm going make a very unpopular comment about SLOW, so if you can't stand to hear anything remotely negative, I suggest you move on to the next posting. I saw SLOW on 12 Nov at the LFF. It was entertaining and CF looks absolutely gorgeous throughout. However, it was an utterly irrelevant piece of film-making and there is not a doubt in my mind why they had trouble finding a distributor. Now don't get the idea that I necessarily agree with this. It was a fantasy, but the criticism will come nevertheless. I do not expect to see it in the States anytime soon as it is wildly un-PC. Rich white guy gets the black girl away from her community, her family, and her fiancee. Rich white guy saves the poor little black boy and his beautiful mom???? Oh dear. I shudder to think what the critics will make of it in the US. In fact, I would not expect it to be well received in the UK either. But he looks really great and I enjoyed it.

(Karen) On Master of the Moor... That Long Island PBS station has broadcast it several times (evidently it is the anchor station for that series) No kidding?! I thought that station was only good for 'This Old House.' Most evenings they broadcast Lawrence Welk (and-a one, and-a two). Waddaya know. Cymbeline, it's WLIW in Garden City, NY. (Evelyn) Colin's acting talent is not taken seriously despite the excellent reviews. He is still viewed as a heart-throb which is incongruous with a good actor, it seems. I completely agree--at least this is what happened after P&P. I'm not sure how much this still applies, though, and what effect it had on the ES Awards. Heck, all awards are sooo subjective. Case in point: Roberto Begnini. apparent lousy mood This is someone else's subjective assessment. We weren't there. (SBR)I wonder if we could convince ODB to do this... Lordy, no. Too much information! Too much information! Some things are better left to one's imagination. (Bethan) Reminds me, didn't Iain Glenn strip to the buff with Nicole Kidman in the Donmar Right you are. He continued his naked cartwheels on Broadway. (Karen) (and rolled up in my home): Ohno! You've rolled it up? You haven't got it hanging in your window anymore? Or at least inside your closet? Take your hands off that Jello and go hang him up! Go to, go to! :-D Am expecting local relative invasion tomorrow, so must go childproof my house. BTW, the forecast is for rain, so tune in for the Macy's Thanksgiving parade. Watching those float-bourne stars lip sync badly is *always* more interesting when it rains. Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate!

Chris, don't be concerned about expressing negative comments about SLOW. We've known for sometime that the film's overall quality was the bottom-line reason that it hadn't found a distributor. Don't know if you've checked out Topic 121. We've been using it as a Spoiler topic for SLOW as well. Eileen, yes. WLIW is the one. I spoke to the programming people at the little PBS station in NW Indiana (people actually answer the phones there as opposed to the flagship station here) and they told me all about the Rendell series. Now if they would ever broadcast that older one as they do the current ones!! argh!! You've rolled it up? well, yes, but that's temporary (she says well-intentionedly) until I get it framed. It is pretty large you know. However, I have lots and lots of 4x6s of it lying around from the rolls of film shot trying to get a picture without a glare. Surprised the neighbors didn't call out the police as I went up and down the alley, masking tape in hand, putting it up on everyone's garage doors. Maybe I should've had a dog with me. :) OK, time to chop onions. (Have blister on finger from peeling and dicing 12 c. of butternut squash.)

Here's the picture Lizza sent me from the Guardian. You can really tell on this one that the chain links are made of paper. The messages are pledges of suppport. On Colin's left is Labour MP Neil Gerrard and on the right Lib-Dem MP Evan Harris.

What??

Well, this larger view certainly accounts for the look on his face. See how happy the chap to his right appears? :-P

He must be over the moon to be in such company. His performance was terrific and clearly the critics felt that he was in the same class as Goodman, Dillane,and Sheen. You should be pleased for him Like I said, I am pleased, of course , that his performance was outstanding.Why else would I be going back to see it. But I don't think being in that crowd is anything to rejoice about...I bet they couldn't sell-out the Donmar to an international audience with the three of them in one play. Anyway...for future discussions: Critics Choice Awards to be announced early February The Olivier Awards expected to be announced mid-February. Nominations to be announced mid January.

Some interesting coverage of TTOTS in the press. "ITV turns the screw on BBC". "ITV reaches for the stars in ratings war". Quote.." raditionally ITV has eschewed Xmas specilas because advertisers stop buying airtime when Xmas shopping ends. This year, however, ITV execs have been promised a bonus payment if they can achieve a 39 percent share of peak-time audiences (at Xmas). Symptomatic of the network's efforts over Xmas, is a screening of the Henry Jsmes classic "TTOTS", starring Colin Firth (only name mentioned). "Ordinarily, this would have been screened when the BBC was not offering the steep opposition they do at Xmas" said one senior ITV exec. who did not want to be named, "but this year there is this great effort to push the 39 percent share figure right through the wire". So, they're depending on Colin's 10 minutes to boost their figure, and win them their bonus! Very flattering to CF, though begs the question...why don't they ask him what he'd like to do and tailor a major project to his talents!! On the ES awards...I'm very pleased to see him singled out for praise. Interestingly, if you look ar the plays in which the other nominees starred - TRT obviously, Michael Sheen in a revival of John Osborne's "Look back in anger" and Henry Goodman in "Merchant of Venice"...they are all very well-known plays. Critics go to see them knowing the actual plays are exceptional and focus on the interpretation. Some critics were not very enthusiastic about 3DOR the play....next time perhaps CF should go for a pr ven vehicle...Chekhov,Ibsen...so that there's no distracting conjecture as to whether the play is good, or not. SLOW...well I'm not expecting good reviews - 2 stars at best (although this is par for the course for Brit films) But one point I must make, because it's white-black, does it have to be "real", issue-driven, politically correct (black girl marries black man, stays in community?) Why can't it be a romantic fantasy, a whimsical, escapist entertainment? Why can't an attractive white man disappear into the sunset with a beautiful black girl? We lived in Nigeria for several years.....most of the couples we knew were good-looking, well-educated, cosmopolitan and from different racial/cultural backgrounds. People do meet, fall in love, lead successful problem-free lives ....why can't films reflect this more rose-tinted view, rather than focus on so-called "social problems"? Glad that the posters are up in the Tube...one of the best ways to advertise.

(Bethan)CF should go for a proven vehicle...Chekhov,Ibsen.. ZZZZZZZZZZZ (Bethan)why can't films reflect this more rose-tinted view, rather than focus on so-called "social problems"? SLOW does.....there is never a mention of the interracial marriage.Matthew does ride off into the sunset....or rather walks off through the tomatoes... with Nimi and Sammy. See, Bethan, you got your wish.

I bet they couldn't sell-out the Donmar to an international audience with the three of them in one play. Well, they have sold out each of their respective plays in large mainstream theatres to the British audiences and have no qualms. (Bethan)CF should go for a proven vehicle...Chekhov,Ibsen.. (Evelyn) ZZZZZZZZZZZ A stamp of a true connoisseur.

(Bethan)CF should go for a proven vehicle...Chekhov,Ibsen.. (Evelyn) ZZZZZZZZZZZ (Arami)A stamp of a true connoisseur. ~~~~~~ LOL.....I'm sorry, but those two guys put me to sleep. Now, Tennesee Williams...let's go for something sexy... :-)

Oh, please, no American voice for this wonderful Brit in the next stage production.

There's a good review for SLOW in Thursday's Times! Of CF, the critic writes: "It's a disarming performance: big on charm and bottled anguish." Of the film, "Rambling and slight it may be. But it's also surprisingly endearing."

Thanks Mari. Here's the review by James Christopher: In the whimsical romance, The Secret Laughter of Women, Colin Firth's science fiction writer falls for the exotic charms of a Nigerian single mother (Nia Long). For all the obvious cultural baggage, it's the clash of personalities that distinguishes O. O. Sagay's script. Firth is filthy rich, very English, and very persistent. Long is proud, prickly, and for the purposes of tinkering around Firth's sumptuous villa, a budding garden designer. Her irritatingly sweet son, Sammy (Fissy Roberts), is the mutual point of contact. Sammy is a sci-fi nut who adores Firth and his cartoon junk. But Long's African fianc�, Ariyon Bakare, a chippy clergyman, is having none of it. "The man is a degenerate," screams the Reverend fire and brimstone to the resident Nigerians who hang out with Long's sanctimonious mother. Bakare has a point. Firth is selfish, bored, unhappily married, and scathingly blunt. "Life isn't about enough," he instructs Long. "It's about more." Only the faintest shrug of the shoulders, and a panicky twitch of the eyes betray the fact that he might be wrong. It's a disarming performance: big on charm and bottled anguish. Long gamely shuffles between attraction nd dismay while her gossipy friends threaten to turn her flat into an African version of Steel Magnolias. The comic chill thaws, and a wobbly romance sparks. Shot with a light, glossy touch, its director, Peter Schwabach, neatly outlines the risks in this tussle of heart over tribal loyalties (Firth's as much as Long's). That they do so without too much sticky manipulation is something of a miracle. Rambling and slight it may be. But it's also surprisingly endearing.

Allison: SLOW will be playing at ABC Panton Street The caption says: Wistful teaser with Colin Firth

Oh goody! If James Christopher of the Times likes it, it's got a chance. He hasn't liked much recently.

But from what I can make out, apart from Panton Street, it is only showing in ....Pekham!. I am sure Dell Boy will be rushing to see it! (Brit in-joke).

Sorry, that should be peckham BTW I wonder what C Tookey will say about it? Remember how we all got in a huff when he included SLOW in his list of Arts supported films which were flops? I am sad to say that I gaave up the Daily Mail a while age - just couldn't stand it any longer. Will try and buy a copy.

Sorry, that should be peckham BTW I wonder what C Tookey will say about it? Remember how we all got in a huff when he included SLOW in his list of Arts supported films which were flops? I am sad to say that I gaave up the Daily Mail a while ago - just couldn't stand it any longer. Will try and buy a copy.

Nice review in The Evening Standard by Alexander Walker for SLOW, I believe he was one of the few critics who hated FP.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. I can't wait to dive into the Turkey tonight. I am so disappointed that ODB was overlooked again. Best actor awards should be awarded for a performance, not fro the play, IMO. Although Colin wants the Olivier, no doubt, I am sure he tokk on the project for the challenge and his own satisfaction. Thanks for the protest picture of Colin and the two MPs. Perhaps he is going to make a move into politics. Nah, Colin won't play the game in his acting career, so he'd never make it in an even dirtier milieu. On the other hand, I'd vote for him and we would certainly get to see more of him. And if Ronald Reagan, a really mediocre,uncharismatic actor, could succeed as Pres...? Colin might end up the most popular PM in British history...and the best-looking one, too. Not to mention, people would be willing o pay big money to hear his political speeches. JE may be shy, but perhaps she is serious about her career and accepts the importance of getting out there and being noticed. I am happy to see the SLOW is getting some positive press. Could someone please tell me where the ABC Panton Street is located? I would like to see SLOW when I arrive in London next Saturday, Dec 4.

Lynda, ABC Panton Street is near Picadilly Circus, right in the centre of town, so you should be able to get there easily if it is still showing. I msut say they are doing a good job of advertising this film. It was not reviewed in the main part of ES but it was in the Hot Tickets magazine which comes out each Thursday with the paper. Also there was an small interview with Nia Long with picture. Also prominemt ads in the main paper and in hot tickets. It just makes one wonder all the more about Miramax and MLSF!

Lynda, ABC Panton Street is near Picadilly Circus, right in the centre of town, so you should be able to get there easily if it is still showing. I msut say they are doing a good job of advertising this film. It was not reviewed in the main part of ES but it was in the Hot Tickets magazine which comes out each Thursday with the paper. Also there was an small interview with Nia Long with picture. Also prominent ads in the main paper and in hot tickets. It just makes one wonder all the more about Miramax and MLSF!

Really sorry about double posts and typos. Blame it on AOL. Am on free trial so please 'scuse.

Here's all that Alexander Walker wrote in the Evening Standard: A small-scale but warm-hearted cross-cultural romance set among the Nigerian colony of expats in the south of France. Peter Schwabach's story centres on the unmarried mother of a lively eight-year-old boy. Her community feels she should get hitched for decency's sake and select the personable new vicar. Her son, though, has other ideas. Setting, culture and unusual concern with respectability give the film its edge. ******** Not much, but we'll take it. ;-D Thanks Ann for finding it. The "Nia Loves Laughter's Challenge" article is made up 100% of quotes from the production notes. http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/html/hottx/film/top_direct.html

Mari, please answer my email concerning the photos....did you receive it?

(Arami)Oh, please, no American voice for this wonderful Brit in the next stage production. Oh....by his own admission....I thought he was Dutch, Italian and Portuguese:-D ~~~~~ Thanks everybody for posting SLOW media reviews. Now we look forward to the personal reviews of our British friends on #121. Allison, Bethan, Arami...let 'er rip!

The SLOW ad also features in today's Times. Good for Optimum Releasing. And yes, Allison, it really shows up Miramax/BVI!! I read the other reviews..I think SLOW comes off best. "Astronaut's Wife" ..It's hard to care - the abiding atmosphere is one of tedium and unreality. "Dreaming of Joseph Lees"..(by the director of "Relative Values")...dour Somerset potboiler, preposterous script (Praise for the direction though) Three others..."boggy", so so, and ,of course, the Bond movie, which will sweep the boards. The review wasn't exstatic though. As to Alexander Walker of the Evening Standard...I think that's almost reassuring (though no mention of CF). At least he doesn't hate it! He slaughtered FP. I remember seeing him on some late night review programme, and he mentioned FP, "starring God's Gift to women". Switched off because I didn't like his tone. But if he doesn't say anything bad, that's good! Hope some of the rest of the reviews will be okay, but I'll bet The Guardian won't like it! Isn't Panton Stree within walking distance of the Donmar? BTW am definitely going to London (work-related) next week.

Bethan you could take in 3DOR and SLOW - how long will the work-related bit take?!!hee hee

I have just got our equivalent of Timeout and absolutely NOTHING about SLOW!! I was hoping to spend the weekend seeing it (at least once) None of our independent arts complexes have it. Anyone else outside London had any luck? Happy Thanksgiving--good turkey diving!

I noticed in the ad in the Times that it just says "Released in cinemas..ABC Panton St, and Peckham Prior(?)" Just the two cinemas. Other ads say "Nationwide release" or "In selected cinemas throughout the country". I remember that when I rang Optimum Releasing, they said that SLOW would be released in London, and then in selected High St ABCs thru' December. (Probably very few prints ...more than two, I hope!) I thought out regional art-house cinema was going to show it (they said they were) but it's not listed in the December brochure. January perhaps? That's one reason, I'm determined to squeeze it in next week somehow. Incase it doesn't make it to the outer regions! No chance of 3DOR I'm afraid, Ann. Not the matinee performance day. And this trip to London is an unexpected bonus ( although it does involve quite a lot of work!) Yes, Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!

Thank you, and it is a little odd to be wishing it right back, since I believe you had your equivalent some time ago (October somthing, was it?)...

Peter Bradshaw's review from the Guardian: This week, I fear, sees a release from the Bernard Matthews Film School: The Secret Laughter of Women, a catastrophic, garbled romantic comedy set in an expatriate Nigerian community in the south of France. Nimi (Nia Long) is supposed to be a beautiful young widow who falls for a handsome, cynical British writer, Matthew (Colin Firth) - scandalising her church community. Matthew is supposed to be a comic book writer idolised by Nimi's son, though there is airy talk of him writing novels and short stories s well. The direction is leaden; the script sounds as if it has been translated from one of those alien languages from Star Wars Episode One and the child actor recites his lines as if he's reading them off an optician's board. Furthermore, Firth's character succumbs to a baffling cardiac episode because he is supposed to have a heart condition - something presumably established in the original screenplay, but lost in the final edit. What a mess. ******* Hmmm am going to have look up that Bernard Matthews crack...

http://www.timeout.com/london/hitlist/film_current.html#lon169542 Review from TimeOut: Single mother and landscape gardener Nimi (Nia Long) likes life among the close-knit Nigerian community of Rue Bonaparte, a small coastal town in southern France, but finds herself subjected to a tussle between the traditional-minded local womenfolk and her fanciful seven-year-old son Sammy (Fissy Roberts): while the former eye up the eligible new preacher (Ariyon Bakare) as a potential husband, Sammy hatches similar ambitions for his new friend Matthew (Colin Firth), a successful English fantasy comic-bo k author who summers from his �open� modern marriage in a nearby villa. He certainly has a very nice garden. You probably know this one - the preacher�s stern and unlovely, but Matthew is emotionally guarded and immature (Nimi�s problem) as well as being an outsider (the rest of the clan�s); it takes the film for him to grow and her to choose. Though not short on good intentions, as a would-be romantic comedy the unguarded naivety of Peter Schwabach�s film doesn�t pay off. On the one hand, the attempts t keep the drama light, sunny and sensitive lapse too often into a sense of rose-tinted whimsy or quixotism; on the other, the film sticks too close to too many genre clich�s and can�t put them over convincingly. It�s more romantic than comic, and more rambling than romantic; and while on the whole the acting is one of the film�s stronger suits, there are times when the performers sound like they�re reading from the page. The direction and OO Sagay�s script provide nice local and cultural colour, but it ne ds more of a twist. (12) (Peter Schwabach, 1997, GB) Nia Long, Colin Firth, Ariyon Bakare, Fissy Roberts. 120 mins. West End: ABC Panton St; Locals.

OK, I've found a trailer of SLOW on the web, but it's only the women talking and "laughing" about men. No Colin. :-(

Hmmm am going to have look up that Bernard Matthews crack... Bernard Matthews is famous for his turkeys!

Yes, I've just found that out. A poultry firm. (strange that the turkey I've had today hasn't put me to sleep...)

Told you the Guardian would hate it! I remember they said that the best part of FP were the flashbacks! Timeout also has an interview with Peter Schwabach. Misan Sagay's comments were all correct. Handmade/Paragon succombed to financial difficulties as SLOW was starting to shoot...Misan funded the first three weeks with her own credit card. Then the Insurance Company (Bank) stepped in, but tried to take over creative control. They scrutinised the screenplay with a magnifying glass to see where they could make budgetary cuts. Then at the editing stage they insisted on commissioning a special edit in which th African community/music was all cut out. Misan and the Arts Council resisted this. Scwabach says a "war of attrition" broke out. (which may account for all the delays). Eventually Misan's view concept of the project prevailed ((focus on African women not CF) and this is the version that is released. Sounds like a difficult time for all, and Colin would have been in the cross-fire, poor guy. Positive news though...Scwabach says that SLOW won the audience appreciation award at the Martha's Vineyard FF (presumably the film they liked most) and has been sold to twelve territories The "Bernard Matthews" crack is a very cruel one. Bernard Matthews used to promote his own turkey products in TV ads and people used to make fun of him because of his leaden delivery. Basically, it means very bad acting. Mind you this was the guy who said (of An Ideal Husband) that the furniture was better than the acting. Also disliked "The Winslow Boy" I can't see how on the one hand critics can heap superlatives on an actor for his stage performance, and then... this!

Bethan, I think the Bernard Matthews reference just means the film's a turkey (not a comment on the acting) although I know that Bernard himself was leaden in the extreme. Hate to admit it, but I agree with two of the specific criticisms (Fissy Roberts' delivery and the unestablished cardiac history). However, I thought the film was a good one in spite of these.

A P.S. It's reviews like Pete Bradshaw's (and there may be more) that make me wish that CF did more TV work, where audiences can judge for themselves (and where, I think, he is more appreciated). Wonder what reviews P&P would have attracted if it had been released as a movie.."the insipid Mr Darcy"? :-) We all have different tastes, and I think film critics wield disproportionate power...they can kill a film stone dead. Apparently in France, French film makers have asked for their movies to be screened before audiences for at least a week before they are reviewed, because so many home grown films don't survive the critics' "first impressions". One question for Ann and Evelyn, would it have been better for CF (as an actor) if MLSF had been released before SLOW (as should have happened). Although I think BVI are going to give MLSF a very low-key release, similar to SLOW's.

Really bad review in the Telegraph (see Electronic Telegraph - reviews Andrew O'Hagen). Sorry! Bad for CF and the film. "CF looks lost in shallow wee movie...four drafts short of being ready, badly made." Nothing good to say for film or acting. Absolute rave for Brosnan/Bond and praise for "Joseph Lees" and the "handsome" Rupert Graves. Oh well...dare I read any more. No!!!! :-)

"Firth is filthy rich, very English, and very persistent. Long is proud, prickly ... Firth is selfish, bored ... and scathingly blunt ... It's a disarming performance: big on charm and bottled anguish." Substitue Ehle for Long in the above excerpts, and you could be talking about our favorite 6-episode JA adaptation. Implications? Who knows? If he doesn't want to continue being viewed as a heart-throb, should he have taken a role like this? Was it actually a different kind of role pared down by the editing slashes people have mentioned? I don't think SLOW has a prayer in the US--too unpc. Critics would be terrified to touch it. And since it isn't set in Nigeria but in France, it can't purport to be giving us a view of life and outlooks in a predominantly black country, so it loses that chance at legitimating the possibility of the Firth-Long relationship. It would have to be as good as SIL to have any hope of overcoming the tendency most people would have of looking at it as a political statement. And CF's character would have to be oor--if he were the gardener and she were the landowner, maybe. But as it is--rich, white, unfaithful, male, frivolous occupation, and he rides roughshod over the family values of the downtrodden, black, tightly knit, female, single parent community struggling in a white country--nevah! An aside--I went to The Best Man to see what Nia Long was like. I thought it was dreadful. There were no sympathetic characters--the men were awful stereotypes, the women longsuffering fools. I thought Nia Long's character was patronizing, thoughtless, and confused. If anyone's seen both TBM and SLOW, I'd be interested in your take on her in the two roles.

I am all atwitter...MLSF is playing in my local (Tallahassee, FL) art house theater. I am going to see him tonight, before he disappears on me. I can't believe it's actually here. He has a date with me tonight!!

(Bethan) Scwabach says that SLOW won the audience appreciation award at the Martha's Vineyard FF (presumably the film they liked most) Strange that the organizer of the event didn't mention that to me when we exchanged a few emails. His answer about how it did was v. lowkey (wish I'd kept it). Said the "audience seemed to like it." If it had won the "audience appreciation award," you'd think he'd mention it. Remember, he was the one who told me that the bank tried to get the film back so it wouldn't be shown at the fest. Here's the entire review from The Telegraph, thanks Bethan. Colin Firth looks lost in this shallow wee movie, set in a Nigerian community in the South of France. Nimi da Silva (Nia Long) is a lovely girl among laughing women, and she has an over-cute, over-acting boy called Sammy. But she wants a man. Will it be the local minister? Will it be Colin Firth? The film is four drafts short of being ready - many of the situations are tossed off and badly made. The whole thing is at times phonily winsome. It is directed by Peter Schwabach and written by OO Sagay. http://www.telegraph.co.uk:80/et?ac=000576481449931&rtmo=pbp4IUse&atmo=YYYYYYYp&pg=/et/99/11/26/bfhag26.html#d

Christopher Tookey review in Daily Mail...could be worse. Gives Bond a rave, rave (5stars), "Joseph Lees" 1 star, "Astronaut's Wife" 1 star....and SLOW 2stars. Verdict: amiable but underpowered romantic drama. Says its a gentle love story set somewhere attractively different, and adds that "the two leads charm" and it's a pleasant way of spending a couple of hours. But I don't like his final comment, which, paraphrased means that the film has absolutely no chance of commercial success. Will post in full, later. On the state of the UK Box office.."Sixth Sense" took �3.27 million (�8000 per screen), "Onegin" (50 screens) took �120,000. It's very tough out there.

(Mark)However, I thought the film was a good one in spite of these. Agree, Mark. (Cymbeline)I don't think SLOW has a prayer in the US--too unpc. Critics would be terrified to touch it We discussed that at least a year ago, Cymbeline...when none of us knew what we were talking about...but having seen the film twice I can honestly say that it is NOT a film about interracial romance...it is about cross-cultural romance..could be Anglo-Italian. But as it is--rich, white,unfaithful, male, frivolous occupation, and he rides roughshod over the family values of the downtrodden, black, tightly knit, female, single parent community struggling in a whitecountry--nevah! No these are NOT downtrodden blacks, NOT struggling in a white country.It does not make any statements or give any messages...it is a sweet movie.PERIOD. Nia Long, gives a terrific portrayal of a well-educated landscape architect.Her home is tastefully furnished and she wears gorgeous clothes. Actually...after Jennifer, Nia Long is my favorite of Colin's leading ladies.The film lacks a good script...I said that the day after I saw it... (Bethan)(One question for Ann and Evelyn, would it have been better for CF (as an actor) if MLSF had been released before SLOW (as should have happened). Although I think BVI are going to give MLSF a very low-key release, similar to SLOW's. We don't know what BVI has in store for MLSF...do we. SLOW and MLSF are two v. different films. I don't think they can be compared. I am just glad he is getting some good reviews so he doesn't have to go on stage every night and face an audience that has read bad reviews of SLOW that day. IMO only The Times counts.And I'm sending that one to the bank today. Sorry this is so long.

Just stumble over a site with the nominations for the Olivier Theatre award: http://www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk/olivier.html And no, ODB is not nominated. But Sam Mendes is, and Sophie Thompson (best actress in a musical). And - still more OT, and perhaps of no interest at all for anyone here: for "Outstanding Achievement in Dance" William Forsythe's Ballet company is nominated - they are from Frankfurt where I live!

Those are old nominations, I think, Renate...Sophie Thompson was nominated last year. Evelyn, For SLOW, the Times is good, The Evening Standard (very important in London) is supportive, and the Daily Mail quite likes it. It's a shame about the Telegraph, but I've noticed that reviews vary tremendously depending on the reviewer. The Guardian...I've not liked their film reviews for some time, and SLOW, quite emphatically, is not their kind of film.

Don't worry, Renate. Those are last year's nominees and winners (marked in red). This year's nominations will be done in January as the Olivier awards cover the entire calendar year of 1999.

Thanks Bethan...I'm sending the bank The London Times which is world renowned. About CF: "It's a disarming performance: big on charm and bottled anguish". About the film: "Rambling and slight it may be but also surprisingly endearing." Listen folks...that's one good review. I am sure he is pleased.It could have gone the other way .

(Bethan) Those are old nominations, (Karen) This year's nominations will be done in January as the Olivier awards cover the entire calendar year of 1999. Oh. Thanks. That explains why some of the plays seemed so old to me that I wondered about the time span the award covers. ;-) The beginning of error....

Daily Mail reviews To make a comparative judgement.. Tookey on "Joseph Lees" Verdict ZZZZZZ......lugubrious rural melodrama..inflicted on thr public. Tookey on "Astronaut's Wife" Verdict...dull, a turkey, waste of space. SLOW Verdict: amiable but underpowered romantic drama "Here's a gentle love story set somewhere attractively different among a small Nigerian community on the south coast of France. The heroine is a single mother and landscape gardner (NL). Her neighbours have it in mind for her to marry thenew preacher (AB). The heroine's seven year old son (FR) has no racial preconceptions and prefers an English writer (CF) who summers nearby. The theme of prejudices overcome is similar to that in the British hit of the moment "East is East" and this film suffers in comparison (my comment.."why?"..totally different kind of film). While the two leads charm, some of the other acting is amateurish. Director PS does not avoid cliche and goes for whimsy when a more hard-edged approach was needed to make us feel there's much at stake. It's light on drama and lighter on comedy - a pleasant way of spending a couple of hours. The final comment is rather flippant, and indicates that Tookey doesn't think it has any chance of cinematic success. (Again, why not? A pleasant way of spending a couple of hours is all that alot of us want!!) But it's not a bad review..obviously too whimsical for him.

Not a bad review. In fact, it has a backhanded way of encouraging people to go see it. The final comment is far more positive than one of Siskel's famous regrets for having lost 2 hours of his life-type condemnations. At least Tookey can accept the film for what it is, a light romantic comedy. All the others appear to have gone in expecting a different kind of movie and when they didn't get it, blasted it. Unfortunately, any alien culture meets Brit culture movie will get compared to East is East, whi h I agree is highly dissimilar (and if that filmmaker is not making a fortune to compensate for ridiculing his own family, I'd disown him). ;-D

Karen, I agree with your observation about critics' expectations. It's almost the same sort of reaction to the latest Helen Fielding, condemning the book for not making a serious statement about women, when all it is, is a very entertaining light-hearted read. (BTW came across another Colin bit...Bridget is in prison in Thailand for alleged drug smuggling and has "fantasies involving Mark Darcy/Colin Firth/Prince William (whom Bridget also fancies) bursting in saying "In the name of God and England, release my future wife!" :-) I've seen clips from "East is East"...looks like a parody of Brit perception of immigrant life in the sixties - living over the chip shop, using a bucket because there's no outside loo, sleeping 4 to a bed, stereotypical overweight Asian women. It's probably funny, but life has moved on. Last week we went to a wedding between a very handsome Oxford-educated barrister (whose parents happenened to be Asian) and a pretty university lecturer( whose parents happened to be Scottish). That's where life has moved on to in tne new millennium. Maybe this is too whimsical, not real enough! There was no review of SLOW in the Daily Express, but that's no loss. The reviewer Ryan Gilbey looks about 17. I didn't check the Independent, because what the Guardian dislikes, the Independent loathes. Two of a kind. Overall I don't think SLOW has done too badly. But it's all Bond this week. BTW what sort of reviews did the latest Bond get in the US? I read that it was critically panned (but huge at the Box Office) . Over here, it's raves all the way. I'm suspicious! :-)

Nothing in The Independent Bethan.

I'll tell you about TWINE over at 72, which I had to see the day it opened. ;-D

Grrrr! After the not too bad review in the Times, comes this, by Melissa Whitworth, in the Metro section of Today's Times. Under Openers, she says of SLOW. "In this interracial confection set in France, Colin Frith is a far cry from Mr Darcy. In pursuit of the beautiful, if strait-laced, Nia Long. Firth comes across as an unsympathetic cad. Furthermore, never has a film shown such a wanton misuse of soft fruit." There is a big picture on the following page of Matthew and Sammy, sitting on the wall. Not quite as I have seen it before. Matthew's head is slightly turned. Makes him look more severe but sexier! Lets hope people look at that page and don't read the previous one. Mentioned SLOW to my VDH and he said that his heart was beating quicker already and that of course he would come with me tomorrow! Yeee!

Just a few odd bods, which i'll post here, though they perhaps belong elsewhere. There's an article in today's Times about the new BJ book... "The film of the book should be with us next year....and with Helena B-C playing BJ, there shouln't be any difficuly persuading Mr Right to take a seat in the stalls." There's a small photo of HF in a leather jacket, H B-C, and , then, a much larger one of CF in his Arsenal boxer shorts (Nick Hornby is mentioned in the article)!! Subliminal. Evelyn, I mentioned "Melissa" in which JE starred. There's a new Alan Bleasedale 8 hour adaptation of "Oliver Twist" starting tomorrow, which seems to use all the actors from "Melissa" (excepting JE of course) Bleasedale always uses the same team. THe review calls it "outstanding", but personally I think Bleasedale is over-rated, and 8 hours of "Oliver Twist", well, for me that could be several hours too long. There's also a Sue Birtwhistle/Andrew Davies adaptation of "Wives and Daughters" starring Justin Waddell, who has appeared in several costume dramas. As I've said before, time for the powers that be to remember a good looking talented duo currently on stage and offer them a substantial TV role!!! Finally, I may seem to be antagonistic to RF(!) , but I did think he did everything right in terms of promoting "Onegin", including at least two appearances on TV movie programmes,Breakfast TV, and blanket coverage in glossy mags. Yet "Onegin" is only no 9 in the Box Office charts, with takings of just over �100,000 and a low per screen average. A �10 million movie with a terrific promotion campaign should have done much better. Just highlights how difficult it is to make an impact with art-house movies ( ven upmarket ones) and why, in the UK, TV is the more accessible medium for good actors! That's me done. No more reading of papers...not even the Sundays! Ann, don't read Ann Bilson in the "Sunday Telegraph" tomorrow...i'm convinced she hates all British films/actors!! :-)

Allison, Strange...there's no mention of SLOW in our (northern!)version of Metro. Actually, CF can't win...if his performance is similar to Mr Darcy, he's "reprising his Darcy role", if it's dissimilar (why shouldn't it be), he's "a far cry from Mr Darcy". Darcy is always the point of reference. Time for critics to move on. I'll be seeing SLOW next week, not quite sure when. I'm not 100% confident that it will make it to the regions! But the video should come out quickly then!

Bethan - and why, in the UK, TV is the more accessible medium for good actors and that is why I was so excited when I read that he might have been doing Flashman, six episodes of Flashman on ITV, all the publicity. I mean even though he only has a 10min cameo in the forthcoming TTOTS, he name has been mentioned more than the rest of the cast. He is definitely a TV actor and I do wish he would do more TV, btw where is DQ, no mention of it in the BBC forthcoming Winter schedule. (I am still keepi g my fingers crossed for Flashman, I just think there was too much in the story for it not to be true. Re Alan Bleasdale's OT, I was very sorry that Jennifer was not chosen to play Nancy instead of Emily Woolf, she would have been great and I think of the two I shall probably watch OT and record W& D. I must say I really can't understand why Jennifer has not done more costume drama since her award-winning performance in P&P. As you say KH & JW are always popping up in these costume dramas. Its strange though because Juliet Aubrey who also won a Bafta for Middlemarch is also rarely seen on our TV screens, nd I think she is also a very good actress. Perhaps it is because they are so closely linked to their award-winning performance.

Strangely enough, I thought the same thing about Juliet Aubrey, and then I caught a glimpse of her last week playing a gangster's moll in a rather unpalatable drama. She deserves better. So, Emily Woolf got the part of Nancy? Did JE actually audition? Can't understand this preference. Also, I think Justine Wadham is always the same...I agree with you, I shall probably check out "Oliver Twist" rather than "Wives and Daughters". W&D sounds like a series of cameos, with silly women and unattractive men. And ever since we did "Cranford" for GCSE, I've disliked Mrs Gaskell. The BBC should do "Shirley" by Charlotte Bronte...great male lead..Robert the strongwilled, ambitious, well-born mill-owner, and the two women who love him. Lots of gritty stuff about labour relations and working conditions too...not sentimental stuff. DQ...yes, Karen, our source of all knowledge...any news? I think I'd prefer to see it on TV!!

(Bethan)Actually, CF can't win...if his performance is similar to Mr Darcy, he's "reprising his Darcy role", if it's dissimilar (why shouldn't it be), he's "a far cry from Mr Darcy". Darcy is always the point of reference. Time for critics to move on. Well put and how about some letters to the editors expresssing this thought? We ought to do some lobbying for ODB as well as just drooling over what he does for us, no? I haven't seen SLOW or 3DOR, so I couldn't comment on why he deserves recognition and rewards for them, but I could make remarks about his overall oeuvre if I can get through to them via website. Anyone who actually sees the print version able to do anything in this line?

Allison, I have that new picture of Matt (head turned) and Sammy on my page, along with the "misused soft fruit." ;-D Think it's time for Colin to move on to a hard-edged film drama...he's done too many comedy roles in a row now. On DQ, I have nothing new, but I do have a lead to pursue.

Re: Jennifer (Ann)Re Alan Bleasdale's OT, I was very sorry that Jennifer was not chosen to play Nancy (Bethan) Emily Woolf got the part of Nancy? Did JE actually audition? Can't understand this preference. We don't know if she auditioned....she has been busy with TRT since March, and then ran right into Summerfolk. I do think directors dislike casting an actor who has starred in a famous literary role into another one. People inevitably compare the two:"She was a better Lizzie.." Also, I think Justine Waddell is always the same.. Ditto. I just saw her in Mansfield Park..same ole, same ole. ( Ann) I must say I really can't understand why Jennifer has not done more costume drama since her award-winning performance in P&P Well, she did Wilde and now Summerfolk. I must say that her Annie in the TRT is outstanding.LOL, she is always a class act even in dreadlocks in This Year's Love. ~~~~~~~ (Cymbeline)We ought to do some lobbying for ODB as well as just drooling over what he does for us, no? Good luck, Cymbeline. This crowd is hard to crank up and do any much along the lobbying line.(**Ducking the tomatoes**) ~~~~~~~ Tomorrow is the A&E Pride and Prejudice Marathon. All six episodes...one sitting! We always get new fans after this yearly event. ~~~~~ (Bethan)Re; RF I did think he did everything right in terms of promoting "Onegin", including at least two appearances on TV movie programmes But at least he got it out on the big screen. That film is older than MLSF.. has hit every Film Festival in the world and he finally moved it. Now it will even be shown in the US...and on cable.Colin could well take a lesson here. At least CF and JE get residuals.

At least CF and JE get residuals. This refers to P&P on television...(It was hiding.)

(Evelyn)This crowd is hard to crank up and do any much along the lobbying line.(**Ducking the tomatoes**) Someone wrote a letter a month or so ago castigating someone for ignoring CF--my apologies for not being able to remember the writer, but it was a good letter, and we ought to do more. How about you folks who've seen 3DOR--you've put some cogent insights on this discussion site. Copy and paste them into an email to the ES. Let's lob the soft fruit in the direction it ought to go. We are certainly creative and prolific here--can't we go public a little and show him that we can do more than drive our Volv s and drool?

hi everyone! I don't know if you remember me, I posted here a few times several months ago. I returned from a long trip to the US a little while ago, had a great time! I was delighted to hear about SLOW, and BJD (love you HF!). I only wish that any of CF projects will come to Israel any time soon (no MLSF here just yet, although I catch it when I was in Chicago I stiil want to see it with hebrew translation). I'll probably be in the DONMAR on January 15th, so I'll try to catch any CF new work there (do you think SLOW will still be showing in January?) Adi.

(Cymbeline) Someone wrote a letter a month or so ago castigating someone for ignoring CF--my apologies for not being able to remember the writer, but it was a good letter, Who else but Evelyn? She always puts her money where her mouth is. (And you'll notice, dear Evelyn, that I didn't put an adjective denoting size in front of "mouth"). ;-) We also have quite a few others who've made phone calls and sent e-mails so it is done and will be done again. Reminding a reviewer every now and then that DB is more than Darcy seems to be necessary with every new film. Speaking of Darcy, thanks for the reminder about P&P. And for those who still don't have their CF fix, The English Patient is showing immediately after. Forget which channel though - TNT?

Great to have you back with us, Adi....and we look forward to seeing you in January. Someone wrote a letter a month or so ago castigating someone for ignoring CF-- (Heide)(And you'll notice, dearEvelyn, that I didn't put an adjective denoting size in front of "mouth"). ; LOL....Say it Heide....:-)) Cymbeline that was to Movieline, the US magazine...and actually, I gave them ten lashes for leaving Colin out of the list of hot British Actors..when they included JN,Rufus Sewell etc. He is an unknown in the US...but I wonder what good it would do to write to the UK columnists or if it would just perpetuate the "heart-throb" reputation.

re Jennifer Evelyn, could it be that she was commited to Sunshine at about the time OT was casting. I hope they both do more television next year, it is so more accessible and can be videoed without waiting months and months. My Wish-List for Colin and Jennifer for the year 2000 - Colin, Flashman (as I saidf I have not given up on this), BJD and Higgins in My Fair Lady which I believe is coming to ther West End next year and there was a whisper a few months ago in the Baz Bambigoyne Column that Colin's na e had been mentioned. For Jennifer, well she is busy for 8months of next year, but perhaps she could fit in a few months filming The Forsyte Sage, she would make an excellent Irene or Fleur, and there was talk many months ago that the BBC were to remake TFS. Wishful thinking I know.

Cymbeline has a good idea. When I've had questions of newpapers/magazines, I've gotten immediate responses. Don't know if they'd respond to criticism, although I believe the newspapers have an option to send a letter to the editor and indicate if it is for publication. BTW, after thanking Optimum for the materials they provided, I commented on the Q&A session at the Ritzy and the lack of professionalism displayed by Misan Sagay with her comments. So there. (of course, I haven't heard back from them)

I commented on the Q&A session at the Ritzy and the lack of professionalism displayed by Misan Sagay with her comments. So there. (of course, I haven't heard back from them) Bravissima, Karen! you did the right thing and I am sure there must be others at Optimum which feel the same way. Bethan, I am so glad you will have your escape to see SLOW. Thank you all for the reviews info postings.

From http://www.virgin.net/cinema/whatson/index.bvs?form%25loc_name=WC1&form%25what_name=Secret+Laughter+of+Women&form%25venue_name=&GO.x=15&GO.y=9 Cinema - What's On - SLOW Colin Firth, who set pulses racing as the dashing Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, is back in romantic mood in this curiously titled, clumsily assembled comedy-drama. Firth plays an English comic book writer who falls for a Nigerian single mother while lying low on the French Riviera. The object of his affections, Nia Long, is being pushed by her ex-pat community into marrying a local preacher. But her young son (Fissy Roberts), who just happens to be Firth's biggest fan, brings them together so often that Long eventually falls for the Englishman's low-key charms. Quite who writer O O Sagay and director Peter Schwabach thought this unlikely curio would appeal to is anyone's guess. Some people may enjoy watching Brixton transplanted to Southern France, but it's not enough to excuse the excruciating two-hour running time, or make us care a fig about Firth's inexplicable hankering for the unremarkable Long. by Neil Smith

Hmm. Oh dear, another male review. And another reference to Dashing Darcy. One of Colin's problems (I think, though may be wrong ) is that men really don't like him at all. Actors like Ewan McGregor, Tim Roth, have a distinct male following...CF hasn't. I just caught glimpse of a Movie Review programme on Arena (cable channel). The reviewers and presenter were all male, under 25, from magazines like Uncut, Loaded and Total Film. It was like watching something in a foreign language. Fortunately, no mention of SLOW!

To offset the awful review from Virgin.net, here's one from an independent film site in the UK. It is indulgently favorable, echoing many of the same comments that we had on our spoiler topic, but written by someone who so obviously knows the culture. http://www.6degrees.co.uk/films/mag_rev227_print.htm

And here from Ann Bilson in the Sunday Telegraph. "Ah, but we film ctitics are paid to suffer so that you may avoid the pain. Take SLOW which is set among the Nigerian community in a strange part of France where no one speaks French. Nia Long, beautiful young widow and mother of a truly ghastly child, is being pushed into family-approved marriage but falls for comic book writer Colin Firth. This is supposed to be a romantic comedy but it's an unstructured mess which gives even Mad Cows a run for its money as Worst Movie of This or Any Other Year. Let's hear it for the Arts Council which once again has succeeded in squandering Natonal Lottery money on a screenplay so inept and unfocused it should have been smothered at birth."

Not too good in The Sunday Times either 1* but I like the last sentence "Pretty scenery and sweet performances from the leads are some consolation" However, that comparison with "Mad Cows" has really upset me, because it is no where as bad as that!! Also in The Sunday Times not a very good review of TWINE and they have compilled a list of new Bonds, guess who has been left out but Greg Wise is mentioned at 2-1 no way, Ralph Feinnes 5-1 I hope hot, Jeremy Northam 4-1, if him why not Colin, Rufus Sewell 4-1 too slight, and Ioan Gruffudd at 3-1 who seems favourite and is everyone's favourite at the moment.

Ann Bilson should be smothered at at birth. I actually wrote to the Telegraph to complain about her vicious review of British films (wasn't published!). She seems to maintain a vendetta against Arts Council films. And I remember she was very cutting about "Valmont"..."C-list actors, redeemed only by a good performance by Annette Bening". Never forgave her for that! I actually much prefer reading US critics...even when they're critical, they're not personal in their attacks. Well at least she didn't say th t the director and cast should be lined up and shot. But "worst film of this or any other year" is very cruel. Will kill the film. I hope this doesn't dent his confidence...he's never struck me as being a very self-confident man. I'm seriously dubious now as to whether he'll play Mark Darcy, unless the script is brilliant, or indeed any other romantic lead. As someone who has lived in Nigeria for several years, I'm looking forward to seeing SLOW...as Karen mentions, none of the critics seem to have the least interest in or knowledge of the culture. Brixton isn't Nigeria. Oh well, stuff the reviews. I always knew Ann Bilson would rubbish it. Although there were some good reviews...the Times, Evening Standard (OK), Time Out (wasn't too bad), the London Film Festival Review, and the first review I read which gave it 3 stars. Even the Daily Mail was okay. The omission from the Bond list doesn't surprise me ...he's not naturally dark haired, and I think Bond has to have this colouring. And anyway, Colin has a tendency to be omitted from lists. Except lists of actors who have played Mr Darcy! :-) Well,at least, thank goodness he's had recognition for his stage acting, and I hope he draws on this in his future performances (not memories of Ann Bilson!). What movie of his comes out next? In a way, I hope it's DQ. Not a romantic role, doesn't get the girl, is a loser and has a nervous breakdown, and the script is good. (Have to say, for the future, I'd also like to see him steer clear of first time screen-writers and also be offered stronger, more socially relevant dramatic roles!) No more reviews!! Am off to clear autumn leaves!

(Virgin Review) Some people may enjoy watching Brixton transplanted to Southern France, but it's not enough to excuse the excruciating two-hour running time, or make us care a fig about Firth's inexplicable hankering for the unremarkable Long. Frankly this smacks of racism - there is only one connection between Grasse's Rue Bonaparte and Brixton (mainly black inhabitants), and why CF should not fall for a beautiful and spirited woman is hard to imagine, unless it's meant to take more than that to love a black woman, perhaps? Also I am confused about the running time. Being on the tight schedule I was, I am convinced that SLOW ran for 100 minutes - yet reviews and film info say 2 hours. Could critics have seen a longer version?

Bethan- Colin has a tendency to be omitted from Lists you can say that again but WHY, he is every bit as good an actor as any of his Contemporaries.(sp?)

Hello everyone I have been lurking a long time, but never felt I had something to say until now. Last week I have been in London and have seen 3DOR twice. I loved the performances very much and I think CF looked very much like Mr. Darcy in some parts. After the first perfomance, which was on an evening, he did give some autographs but left very soon as he was with some friends. For my second I had to queue for a return and was very lucky to get one. There were also some autograph collectors who waited for the actors to go up.So I waited with them. When Colin came I was very amazed to see him wear gla ses. Of course I'm not sure whether he just wears them for disguise. One man asked him whether he could take a photograph of Colin and he answered,he'd rather not at tis moment.Then I mustered all my courage and asked Colin if he could spare a few minutes for me between shows. He was very friendly and said they had some things to do between shows,but he would come down and I should wait for him there. After the performance he did come down and after giving a few autographs and having pictures taken he looked for me and I could talk to him. More later

Mark, the running time (in some reviews) is given as 95 minutes, which seems to be more realistic for a romantic comedy than an over-long 120 minutes. I would also trust your assessment of the running time (as you were "bunking off" and anxious to get back to work in time!) more than that of some of the critics who barely seem to have been watching the film. Commenting beyond the context of this particular movie, and on behalf of many small-scale films that are scathingly received, I must say that I am disturbed by the power of reviewers in the UK. Reviews are often very short, ill-considered and destructive. It must be very disheartening for directors/writers/producers, who have put years of effort into getting their product on screen, to see all their work negated by a few words. Small films depend on good reviews. I did suggest in my (unpublished!)letter t the Sunday Telegraph that Ann Bilson put some of her "creative" energy into actually making a film ...just to find out how difficult and depressing it can be! BTW, on the BJ fim and playing Mark Darcy, this may be safer ground. There are bigger guns involved...the producer was resposible for SIL, Richard Curtis co-wrote the screenplay (presumably), Universal are backing it...they have the power to promote and also to practice damage limitation if necessary. Small films with no promotional budget can just be cut down. Back to Autumn leaves.

Just one more contribution...to counteract the negativity of the Telegraph reviews! I read the SLOW review in "Time Out" at the newstand, but was too stingy to buy it, and thought the review was so-so. But I jotted down some phrases from memory, and must say compared to the Ann Bilson School of Criticism, it was a longish, articulate review. SLOW...not short of good intentions but as a would-be romantic comedy, Peter Scwabach's unguarded naivety doesn't pay off. Attempts to keep drama light and sunny and sensitive lapse into rose tinted whimsy. Too many genre cliches..more romantic than comic. Acting is one of the film's strengths Director and scrreenwriter provide attractive local colour and culture. Not so bad!! Welcome Nita! Please tell us more.

Yes Welcome Nita, please we want more and was Colin wearing his glasses when he spoke to you?

NITA!!! Thank you for coming out of lurkdom. We want to hear more about (1) Colin wearing glasses (what kind/style of glasses were they?) and (2) what you spoke to him about. About these additional reviews in The Times and Telegraph...what goes on? It appears these capsule reviews are written by other than the newspaper's principal critics. Here, they just pick out a few comments that give the overall flavor and publish for ongoing reference. What gives? I mean, the original Times review was fairly favorable and now this other critic comes in and writes a pathetic piece and that only serves to counteract the newspaper's original recommendation. Are they playing both sides of the fence to maintain readership? Have never seen anything like it. tsk tsk (Bilson) Take SLOW which is set among the Nigerian community in a strange part of France where no one speaks French. Take The Scarlet Pimpernel, where no one speaks French or even English with a French accent. (Ann) a list of new Bonds I read that article with much interest last night. Can't believe the odds (provided by Ladbrokes) for Fiennes are that good even with The Avengers fiasco pointing out that he can't do debonair. Ioan Gruffudd doesn't stand a chance because (a) he's too young...although the next movie he will be up for is about 4-5 years away...and (b) his name, which requires subtitles and we all know Americans don't like subtitles. (Bethan) I'm seriously dubious now as to whether he'll play Mark Darcy, unless the script is brilliant, or indeed any other romantic lead. I do think CF needs to move away from the rom-com genre and into serious contemporary drama. But I would still love to see him in BJD. It will be such a high-profile film like a Notting Hill. he's not naturally dark haired, and I think Bond has to have this colouring. Certainly doesn't have to (remember Roger Moore), but we know Colin has no problem dying his hair. He was the v. dark-haired Darcy. ;-D (Mark) Frankly this smacks of racism I thought so too. How could that have been published? And Bethan, I've put many of the reviews (like TimeOut) in Drool's Bucket, so you won't have to jot down phrases.

(Bethan), Reviews are often very short, ill-considered and destructive. That is what happened in Miami with MLSF. No one came to see it. It seems that no matter what he tries to do, he will never live the Darcy thing down so he might as well play Mark Darcy. It will be a high profile film and it may be the only way to have critics see him in a different light as Mr. Darcy. Reverse psychology and all that. (Karen), I do think CF needs to move away from the rom-com genre and into serious contemporary drama. I am subscribed to BBC America and have a very hard time watching the serious contemporary drama. The characters and the story lines are just not interesting. Who is their intended audience? (Karen), Thank you for coming out of lurkdom. We want to hear more about (1) Colin wearing glasses (what kind/style of glasses were they?) and (2) what you spoke to him about. Welcome Nita! We want to hear lots more. :-D

So glad you posted here, Nita. Had you seen it in March? Did you have to travel far and if so, what made you decide to make the trek? We're glad you did and happy you're willing to share. Phooey on reviews. Why obsess over the bad ones? There were some good ones too. Does no one mention this film was made two years ago? Colin's done some a lot of work since then - most of which any of us have yet to see. Are we afraid bad reviews are going to prevent us from seeing his new work? Heck no, none of these reviewers can remember anything Colin's done to his previous work except for Mr. Darcy. Are we afraid bad reviews are going to prevent us from seeing SLOW? Maybe, so better get to the inema quickly, girls. As for me, I knew there was little if any chance of SLOW making it to these shores because our own drool reviewers have told us it's a sweet but unremarkable film. I don't need a newspaper reviewer to concur for me to realize that SLOW is not going to be a highlight of his career. Have forgotten, does the new Donmar program still use SLOW in CF's bio?

Yes Heide it does, althou as mentioned here before ,I believe, his bio is shorter than that of the other two. For someone not knowing the cast, at first glance it would appear he is the least experienced etc from the Donmar programme. Did he approve this I wonder? Welcome Nita, we would love to hear more of your own Donmar Delights.

Here are the results of the Best British actor website: Best Site for an Actor or Actress Robson Green with 39% of the votes. As the voting was so close in this category, we have decided to make an extra award - Highly Commended, which goes to The Alan Bates Archive which gained 37% of the votes, just 2% less than the winner. Because it gained almost quarter of the votes cast, Colin Firth - an Appreciation gains a special Recomended Site award. ~~~~~ Someone has to tell Peter Latham how to spell "Recommended". Congratulations Murph!!At least he made this list which included all the actors mentionsed in the New Bond list. ~~~~~~ We all should write to Ann Bilson at the Telegraph. What is the S-Mail address please. ~~~~~ Agree with Mark The Virgin review does smack of racism. Insulting at best. In the US no publisher would dare print that. ~~~~~~ (Bethan)Re: Ann Bilson's review in the Telegraph...Well at least she didn't say the director and cast should be lined up and shot. The director and script-writer....Yesss. ~~~~~ (Heide)Phooey on reviews. Why obsess over the bad ones? There were some good ones too. Not many...and we're just hyperventilating. It was not the Movie of the Year...but not the worst by a long shot. And the bad reviewers are almost playing "Who can write the worst review..." t the director and cast should be lined up and shot.

Sorry, ignore this:t the director and cast should be lined up and shot. Welcome Nita

Poor SLOW reviews in The Observer and Popcorn as well. Time for something more upbeat. From USA Today's Weekend section, celeb Q & A column: Q: My daughter and I are equally drawn to the tall, dark and handsome British actor Colin Firth. Why isn't he a superstar? A: Women on both sides of the Atlantic have been swooning over Firth since his appearance as Mr. Darcy in the BBC's Pride and Prejudice. But he says, "I get the jitters if too much attention is focused on me. And I wouldn't do something just for a big paycheck." To the happily married Firth, 39, whose roles in The English Patient and Shakespeare In Love were scene stealers, "a character who's straight down the line with no twists or quirks is boring. You've got to have something to play. I like to watch stories where you're sure of what you're seeing, and then you're not."

Well done Murph. Nice to see ODB on a list!

Haven't we seen the Popcorn one before? I'm pretty sure someone posted a review by Tom Dawson.

Yes, well done Murph. Your site is very much appreciated! Karen, thanks for compiling all the reviews for SLOW. Are you going to include the Daily Mail crit , which I posted on Friday (2stars).It's not too bad. But I'd use editorial discretion over Ms Bilson's "review"! Evelyn, the Sunday Telegraph e-mail is sletters@telegraph.co.uk I plan to send off another copy of my complaint...not specific to SLOW, but more as a general reaction to her demolition of all things British!! Give them a chance! Karen, Sunday papers tend to use different reviewers, hence the differing opinions. The Sunday Times Culture is definitely targeted at a young age group. I used to enjoy reading reviewers like Geoff Brown in the Times, or Quentin Curtis in the Telegraph, but they've all been replaced by younger critics who seem to write for Loaded magazine! Mark, you are exempt from my criticism of male reviewers! H-any-way, definitely ENOUGH on reviews!!!! Only silver lining...that he may be prompted by the sharp claws of the film critics to return to the safer waters of good TV drama with a ready made appreciative audience!!:-) He apparently told someone he wasn't planning on taking a break, so I hope he'll plunge straight into BJD and Flashman!! Or something equivalent. So he's wearing specs...how interesting. Camouflage or short sight?

Karen, I think that review at Popcorn is the one from Empire or Total Film magazine, can't remember which. I understand 3DOR is getting better and better, hope the critics are taking note! I second your hopes for Flashman & BJD Bethan, why bother with films when so many of us would like to see back on the TV, many people have written to Teletext and Ceefax bemoaning the fact that he has not been on our screens for far too long.

Well, I don't know if this will make you feel better about SLOW ( :-) ), butI've just tried to watch the "new production from the makers of P&P" on BBC, and to be frank, all I thought initially was "Bring back Darcy and Lizzie"!! The production values are high, in so far as it looks good and the settings are beautiful - the location shots actually reminded me of P&P- and "Lady Catherine" is in it. But that's it...I found it boring and switched off before the end. The men are unattractive and Molly (JW)is irritating. No doubt the critics will rave, but I'd rather watch CF squashing tomatoes in the worst movie of the year!! And "Oliver Twist"...what I glimpsed of it, jumping channels, although I think it's still on at the moment, seemed even worse. Two hours! And three more episodes to come. JE was well out of this one, IMHO!

I agree about W&D Bethan, but I quite enjoyed OT, will watch next week, I think. I like Julie Walters but to me she is always the same.