Welcome back, Lisa! Good points, KJart! (Not)Frightened of getting into a crowd, worried how to deal with someone who might recognize him? That his fear of becoming recognized is a genuine criterion in the projects he chooses ... Anyone who wears black shoes with white laces has no fear of being recognized. ;-)

Agree, good points, KJArt. Jasper does use words such as 'seems to' or 'appears'; you hit the nail on the head when you said 'the reader tends to believe...'. We've been doing the same thing as Jasper--projecting our own interpretations into CF's words (i.e., "it'll happen" might mean baby's already on the way). It's human nature to do this. Personally, I think Jasper used our comments over at the BJD topic to form his questions about MD. ;-) Regarding CF's revelation about where he lives: remember the spread in People Magazine last year? After reading that piece, if one didn't know better, one would think he lived in Umbria. There was no mention of London, period. I think CF knows exactly what he's doing when he reveals these personal details. Welcome back, Lisa. Glad you're feeling better.

I also agree with the points made by KJ....but it all makes for interesting reading! Now, I actually have some good news! Usually I'm predicting doom and gloom, but I rang up the National Museum for Photography, Film & TV in Bradford, and asked, yet again, if they had plans to show MLSF, and yes they are showing it, from June 2nd, for one week at least. So it is going nationwide, of a kind! Might be worthwhile checking out your nearest art house/independent cinema to ask about their June programming. Shall take my mother to see it! (Well, it's suitable for mothers and grandmothers and maiden aunts! :-) )

(Bethan)Shall take my mother to see it! (Well, it's suitable for mothers and grandmothers and maiden aunts! :-) ) Actually, that is the focus audience for MLSF. They'll love it.

To UK fans, I have just heard that Malcolm McDowell will be on The Steve Wright in the Afternoon Show tomorrow, Wednesday, perhaps he will say something about MLSF.

(Colin, Re: HF's visit to the FP set): "She then wrote up a Bridget Jones version of the visit to the set, which is very funny, but didn't echo my recollection, although Nick said it was very close to what had happened. She wrote a thing about having followed me inadvertently everywhere around the set until eventually I said, 'I am going to have to go on alone from here because it's the men's toilet.' I don't remember that. Nick says it's true." CF said "wrote up" ... was this then published in a column? Does anyone recollect seeing it?. I wonder if it would be retrievable. Probably dates from late '96 or early '97. Murph: I loved the rapidity with which you got the Times article up, but you really ought to give Jasper some credit, you know ... ;-)

(KJ) CF said "wrote up" ... was this then published in a column? Does anyone recollect seeing it?. I wonder if it would be retrievable. Probably dates from late '96 or early '97. That would be from The Independent (as was the Rome interview) and they didn't archive their stories on line at that time. Hmmm, now have time to read all the messages from yesterday...

About that Independent column (*the researcher in me kicks in*), it might not be all that difficult to find. HF would've written it right after she was on the set. Since FP only took a short time to make and I know there are people here who know the dates, it really take much to look up her weekly columns at a library on microfilm. Any takers? ;-) (Jasper Rees in ES) ...is set in a rambling house large enough for Colin Firth, as batty inventor Fraser Pettigrew My guess is that Jasper is trying to console Colin that he isn't that old. Wouldn't you agree, KJ? ;-) Doesn't it seem odd that Rees first writes for The Times and now the Evening Standard? Or are they part of the same media empire? (Rees) Is Hugh Hudson on the comeback trail? He has two movies opening this month, one in America called I Dreamed of Africa Trail closed; take a detour to Dogsville. (Eileen) Ladies, there is no doubt in my mind--Peter's as you-know-what as a three dollar bill. *hee hee* Do I know how to call'em or what!? And it is a different trailer than the one we saw before. Still poor quality streaming stuff. (Mari) It appears it's showing in one cinema already (might be Scotland). Why do you think that? Is it in the boxoffice Top 10 already? Just kidding, but have checked The Scotsman, which lists all the theaters there, and it's not there. (Lisa) Santa Monica...Isn�t that part of greater LA or did I lose the $32,000 geography question? Do you want to use a lifeline? I'll give you my friend's number, who lives in Santa Monica and thus outside the reach of the LA Unified School District. *enough of a hint* Santa Monica likes being a little renegade city and not LA. (Lisa) Colin supposes that it is the character Darcy who is the sex symbol. Little does he know that we, too, are way past that transference! Some are and a lot aren't. You'd be amazed at the Darcy worship that was in evidence in the Donmar lobby. Bethan, thanks for the link on the Relatives Values score. I haven't listened to any of it yet, but will do so as soon as I can. What an interesting find. Evelyn, are you ordering the CD yet? ;-) (Eileen) Personally, I think Jasper used our comments over at the BJD topic to form his questions about MD. ;-) LOL!! Who knows. Life is stranger than fiction.

Hello Lisa. I only know you from reading the old posts. Nice to be "virtually" introduced. Many thanks to Elena (great to see you back) and Mark for bringing some sanity to the discussion of the word "cult". As someone who as had a lifelong attraction to cult novels, cult films, and cult musicians; the word does not offend me. In some ways being a devotee of a cult of an artistic enterprise is comparable to being an elitist. Some people may be offended by that. Some may just think it shows good taste. Personally, I'm quirky and generally uninterested in the mainstream. In regard to the comment on the accents in MLSF not being sufficiently Scottish enough. The characters played by MEM and CF were upper-class and may well have been educated in England. Also, people of higher social classes tend not to have heavy regional accents. As for MM character, well he had been away in England for years, leading his own life and running his business. It would not have been unusual for him to sound English; and he, as well, belonged to a privileged class. The interview: overall quite good. I found the question as to wether CF and LG would have children rather rude. It is between the two of them, and really no one else's business, particularly the interviewer or especially us. I'm a fan, but CF does have the right not to have his private life become public domain.

(Karen)Bethan, thanks for the link on the Relatives Values score. I haven't listened to any of it yet, but will do so as soon as I can. What an interesting find. Evelyn, are you ordering the CD yet? ;-) Well, I'll try.But I suspect the trailers put on the best music in the score.And there isn't going to be a soundtrack CD.I vividly remember the MLSF trailer music. Beethoven, by the Birmingham Symphony, Simon Rattle , conducting and Satchmo.I haunted Virgin Records for months....it was never recorded. Given their foresight,it's a miracle that P&P was. And isn't it glorious!!

A small step forward---- MLSF made it on to Film 2000 tonight!! Johnathan Ross just gave the storyline, mentioned CF and there were a few short clips. Including ODB in his swimming costume. Heady late night stuff, if like me you have never seen MLSF. No judgement was passed on the film but I guess JR considers it to have some merit or he wouldn't have featured it. A start at least! Sorry, for using "I guess" in that sentence, been spending too much time with Jasper lately, it's kinda rubbed off on me.

Looking forward to the MLSF score Evelyn, th day of listening comes ever nearer. Is anyone really sure of RV 's release date? Earlier on this topic 9th June was mentioned but the end of Times article gave 23rd June for release. Anyone put me right?

The June 9th date has been posted at Teletext for ages. (Sorry, Mari.) I'd go with the 23rd, even though I was told it was also the date of some big football match (I think).

(Lisa) BTW, does anyone know where this rented house outside of LA is located? I remember reading about Santa Monica a long time ago. Santa Monica...Isn�t that part of greater LA or did I lose the $32,000 geography question? (Karen) Do you want to use a lifeline? I'll give you my friend's number, who lives in Santa Monica and thus outside the reach of the LA Unified School District. *enough of a hint* Santa Monica likes being a little renegade city and not LA. Welcome back Lisa and very true, Karen ;-). Santa Monica is a self-incorporated city and definitely marches to its own drummer. But from a geographical perspective I can see why it would seem like S.M. is part of greater L.A. Santa Monica is completely surrounded by Los Angeles, is very densely populated and the only way you can really distinguish the fact that you're in S.M. and not L.A. is the different color on the city buses :-). Therefore I'm wondering about CF's comment that he lives "outside of L.A." when he visits the area. I wouldn't consider S.M. to fit that description, but most of the places that I would consider outside LA are boring suburbs with identical tract houses. Somehow I find it hard to imagine that a London-lover would enjoy that! Hmmm, perhaps Malibu? I think that's where the Tilly/Calley's live and it's far enough from L.A. to be considered outside. It's a ritzy area, but the population is awfully sparse. It's great if you're an outdoors lover but not if you like any shops or restaurants closer than a 20 minute drive. I suppose I should stop myself before leaping to any more wild speculations. Wouldn't want to be classified with Mr. Rees ;-).

(Karen) Why do you think that? Is it in the boxoffice Top 10 already? Not yet.;-) With the Popcorn review, it said it was showing at one theater, the Greenock Waterfront Cinema in . . .Greenock. Ring a bell with anyone? RE: Santa Monica. It took me an hour to drive from the ocean (borders SM on the west) to downtown L.A. in the infamous rush-hour traffic, so I could see where someone might think that it's far from L.A., even though distance-wise, it's not. I recall Colin being interviewed in Pasadena once--maybe that's it? Just me Jasper-ing away here . . .;-)

(Mari) ...it said it was showing at one theater, the Greenock Waterfront Cinema in . . .Greenock. Ring a bell with anyone? No,...but it beats the Ritzy in Brixton. Pasadena is inland...wasn't that interview near the waterfront?

(JR)Colin Firth, as batty inventor Fraser Pettigrew .. (Karen) My guess is that Jasper is trying to console Colin that he isn't that old. Wouldn't you agree, KJ? ;-) ... Ummmm. Interesting theory. But one feels it very possibly would have been a simple slip, although perhaps a Freudian one... ;-) (Lisa) Santa Monica...Isn�t that part of greater LA or did I lose the $32,000 geography question? (Karen) ... who lives in Santa Monica and thus outside the reach of the LA Unified School District. *enough of a hint* Santa Monica likes being a little renegade city and not LA. There are lots of little independently incorporated cities within and at the edges of L.A. (like beautiful downtown Burbank) Now certain regions (like Hollywood) act as if they are separate entities (well, they have different zip codes, don't they?) even though still officially within L.A. city limits. There has been a San Fernando Valley secession movement for many years (LAUSD being a big reason for it). Re: Colin's CA condo or apt. I have heard Malibu and I have heard Brentwood (which isn't outside L.A. proper), but I suspect nobody but his hairdresser knows for sure (and since it's sort of apparent he doesn't HAVE a hairdresser, that means no one ... and knowing him, he's probably moved anyway...)(not that I admit to "knowing him" *Heehee*) Go figure... ;-) (Karen) You'd be amazed at the Darcy worship that was in evidence in the Donmar lobby. I'm sure he's perfectly aware of it, has finally come to terms with it, and just philosophically absorbs the adoration in lieu of the character. I've had otherwise- perfectly- sane correspondants slip up and say 'Mr. Darcy' when they meant CF. They are, I suspect, like Bridget ..."but Mr. Darcy couldn't POSSIBLY be an actor! ... and yet he IS an actor. ...So confusing..." (forgive the paraphrasing)... But I suspect (hedging again) it's one reason why he apologizes for disappointing people all the time (because he's not Darcy) ;-) KJ

(Evelyn) Pasadena is inland...wasn't that interview near the waterfront? I definitely remember one taking place a few years ago in Santa Monica at the 3rd Street Promenade. I have a copy of it tucked away somewhere. I wonder if Colin and the interviewer met up at the stegosauras ;-)? Come to think of it, maybe that's where the speculation about a possible Santa Monica address grew from. Was there also an interview in Pasadena, Mari?

I think someone mentioned last year that he was STAYING in Pasadena (hotel or something; maybe for one of the premieres??) He might have been interviewed there.

(Jana2) different color on the city buses :-) Yeah! The Big Blue buses!! Took two to get to the Getty. Best deal in town. Greenock Waterfront Cinema In Greenock, in Inverclyde (home of Loch Eck); around where MLSF was filmed. Phone number 01475 732201 Can't see Colin in Pasadena...unless Livia likes wearing hats and little white gloves. ;-) How does Pacific Palisades strike you, Jana? (although I'm still pulling for SM, with all its antique shops)

Karen: I'd go with the 23rd, even though I was told it was also the date of some big football match (I think). Nah, Euro 2000 final not till July 2. England might play in the QFs on the 24th or 25th, though. Karen: Doesn't it seem odd that Rees first writes for The Times and now the Evening Standard? Or are they part of the same media empire? No, but I think most magazines (including those with weekend newspapers) commission freelances for their main features.

I agree with Jana2 about SM. It is not considered outside the LA area. Malibu is a possibility or the canyon road where Neil Young lives. Who knows for sure where the Callys live? It could also be in Pasadena. There are some very beautiful homes there and the town has changed for the better. (Karen), Can't see Colin in Pasadena...unless Livia likes wearing hats and little white gloves. ;-) Doesn't Jana2 live in Pasadena? BTW, I love hats and long white gloves. ;-)

Pacific Palisades would be my guess. Mark, looking forward to EURO 2000?

Thanks, Mark. Seemed like I'd seen Jasper Rees' name in the paper too frequently to be a freelancer and just assumed (how appropriate) that he worked for one of them. (Mark) England might play in the QFs on the 24th or 25th, though. But that affects the weekend opening gross...not that MLSF would appeal to necesssarily the same audience as football... ;-)

Yeah!! We're back!!! (Moon) Pasadena. There are some very beautiful homes there No disagreement on this. ;-)

(KJ) I'm sure he's perfectly aware of it My comment that "You'd be amazed at the Darcy worship that was in evidence in the Donmar lobby" referred to Lisa's comment that: Colin supposes that it is the character Darcy who is the sex symbol. Little does he know that we, too, are way past that transference! I wasn't referring to anything Colin might be thinking. As I observed in the lobby and on these boards, not everyone has gotten past the Darcy thing. (is my writing that incomprehensible?

I had an email from Rachel Weinstein yesterday in response to my congratulatory one to the Donmar for the 5 Tony Nominations for TRT. She said: "Make sure and say 'Hi' to everybody....we have fingers crossed too."

Karen: England might play in the QFs on the 24th or 25th, though. But that affects the weekend opening gross Different audience as you say, and I don't hold out high hopes for a stunning opening gross ... even if England don't qualify. Scotland didn't reach the tournament, so that reduces any slight audience overlap further. Moon: Mark, looking forward to EURO 2000? I have a major relegation issue to contend with Sunday before I even start to think about international football, but I'd say your DH has little to worry about if Italy meet England. Sorry, I promise no more soccer talk.

Regarding the opening date for RV (not MLSF): I read June 9th at the Empire site at which the new trailer is available (see Murph's link). Suffice to say it'll open some time in June. (Jana2) I definitely remember one taking place a few years ago in Santa Monica at the 3rd Street Promenade I remember this one also. He was wearing flip-flop sandals and sent Livia off shopping (funny what sticks in one's memory, isn't it?). (Karen) As I observed in the lobby and on these boards, not everyone has gotten past the Darcy thing I wasn't in the Donmar lobby but from what I've read here and there, your observations are very much on target. ;-)

Lisbeth has the account of the first meeting between "Bridget" and CF on the set of FP at: Bridget meets Darcy '96

(KJ) I'm sure he's perfectly aware of it. (Karen)I wasn't referring to anything Colin might be thinking. \...\ (is my writing that incomprehensible? Ummmm. No. I was agreeing with your observation that: ... not everyone has gotten past the Darcy thing. And adding that I was sure CF ,too, knows very well that a lot of them haven't gotten over it . (It appears that it's my writing that is incomprehensible. Sorry) ;-) Karen: Doesn't it seem odd that Rees first writes for The Times and now the Evening Standard? Or are they part of the same media empire? (Mark) No, but I think most magazines (including those with weekend newspapers) commission freelances for their main features. Yes, I've seen Jasper do this before (Fever Pitch articles, I believe). The smart freelancer gets as long an interview and as many quotes on tape as he/she can, and then draws from that to write more than one article. These are offered to several markets.. As long as each article (usu. w. different quotes) is unique, the publications can have exclusive rights to it -- so they don't mind if they all came from the same encounter. Jasper is good at drawing a lot of material from his subjects, evidently, and has done this often. I suspect he uses all those conjectures to pad them all out to increase his output (*heheheheh*). No fool he. ;-D

I had a dead armadillo in my backyard this morning, and I hope it's not an omen:-(

I read that as a dead armadillo in your mailbox!

(Evie from Okie) I had a dead armadillo in my backyard this morning, and I hope it's not an omen:-( Quick! Throw some salt over your shoulder and knock on wood. Stay away from mirrors and ladders then all will be well again. ;-D

20:19 Wednesday 10th May 2000 Puttnam announces retirement at film premiere Film producer David Puttnam has announced that his film My Life So Far will be his last. Lord Puttnam cited other commitments, not least his work for the Government at the premiere of the film in Glasgow for its Bafta Scotland screening. He said: "I tried for a year after the General Election to juggle the jobs I'm doing with the Government work and it was just impossible. "I found I was spending my time apologising for not being at things. "But it wasn't pressure of work that made up my mind for me, it was the feeling of letting people down that decided it." Lord Puttnam, 59, sits on the Labour benches in the House of Lords and also sits on the Schools Standards Task Force. He has produced 34 films during a 30 year career in the industry, including five set in or filmed in Scotland.

Good find, KJ. ... must practise what to say to Mr. Darcy or rather Colin Firth as he is known. Tom says on no account mention Mr. Darcy but just chat like normal person not tedious fan. Was Bridget in the Donmar lobby?

(Jana) Was there also an interview in Pasadena, Mari? Yes, it was a couple of years ago; they interviewed him at the hotel lounge--I think the Ritz-Carlton. Might have just been a convenient meeting place for the reporter; no indication CF was actually staying there. In fact, I'd imagine (ghost of Jasper here;-) that he wasn't or else they'd have done the interview in his room (KJART) I have heard Malibu and I have heard Brentwood (which isn't outside L.A. proper), but I suspect nobody but his hairdresser knows for sure (and since it's sort of apparent he doesn't HAVE a hairdresser, that means no one. KJ, you're not gonna believe this, but a couple of years ago, someone (Murph, I think it might have been you!) found a website for a hair salon in SM (I think) that listed its celeb customers, and CF was among them. RE: Brentwood--I've heard Meg had a house there while they also lived at the place in the wilderness.;-) Murph, do you recall the hair salon thing?

Still on the subject of hair... :-) I have examined the MLSF London premiere TV snippets and, for the sake of accuracy, I think that CF's hair is almost exactly as it was in the Donmar. It may be a little longer - but not much - and he appears to have used some kind of dressing like hair gel: the locks falling over his forehead appear damp. Moreover, I find no evidence of any deliberate hair parting. Persons of nervous disposition are advised to leave or at least close their eyes now: it is just the balding crown shining through. (I make no apologies for stating the above, in the same way as CF makes no effort to hide it. To me as a true fan the state of his hair, apart from noting the obvious and natural fact, is of no consequence.)

Hi CherylB, nice to "meet" you, too. Aren't you the lucky soul who was involved with the production of Valmont? I thought I had read old posts of yours before I originally came on board in 1998. Guess we have been like ships in the night, eh? To everyone else, many thanks for the welcome. (Karen) Some are and a lot aren't. You'd be amazed at the Darcy worship that was in evidence in the Donmar lobby. I am surprised. I would have thought enough time had lapsed (since the airing of P&P2) for Darcy delirium to have developed into full-fledged Firth fever. But these diseases are not linear, are they? And as I admitted, they also can occur concurrently. (Karen)Do you want to use a lifeline? I guess I should use my audience life line! Didn't know it was such a trick question. I must admit, I made a mental list of Santa Monica, the Desert, the Canyon, and Pasedena. Maybe I should ask for the 50-50 lifeline. :) (CherylB ) I found the question as to whether CF and LG would have children rather rude. It is between the two of them, and really no one else's business I agreee the press should keep its nose out of the family info, but ODB could have said "pass" again. Maybe CF thought these comments were off the record. His candor surprised me. First there was "doing a Harvey;" now we have "pulling a Jasper." Too funny... Hey, whatever happened to Ben? Did he ever return?

(Mari),Might have just been a convenient meeting place for the reporter; no indication CF was actually staying there. In fact, I'd imagine (ghost of Jasper here;-) that he wasn't or else they'd have done the interview in his room Or a convenient place because the house he rents is there. :-) Arami, we should really put a stop to these non-hairy thoughts! ;-) (Murph, I think it might have been you!) found a website for a hair salon in SM (I think) that listed its celeb customers, and CF was among them. Mari, you are amazing, you remembered that! Which salon was it? Lisa, Ben is living in London now and has not posted for a while.

(Arami) Persons of nervous disposition are advised to leave or at least close their eyes now: it is just the balding crown shining through. As long as ODB doesn�t resort to a comb-over or Ron Popeil�s spray can of dye for bald spots, he�ll always be my main man. (As TS would say: Colin, who loves ya, baby?) At least his career and appeal have not been based on hair alone. Does the name Hugh Grant ring a bell? (Oops, guess my opinion of Hughie is out of the closest.)

we should really put a stop to these non-hairy thoughts! ;-) It doesn't really bother you, does it? ;-)

It doesn't really bother you, does it? ;-) Carissima! Neanche per sogno. ;-) Do continue...

James Christopher's mini-review of MLSF in The Times: Hugh Hudson's My Life So Far is a modest memoir about sexual awakening. It's as misty-eyed about 1920s Scotland as the musical Brigadoon. The screenplay by Simon Donald is based on Sir Denis Forman's childhood memoir, Son of Adam, about a chirpy adolescent, Fraser (Robert Norman), who grows up in a Highland pile to become (we're told at the end) a member on the board of English National Opera. How scintillating. It aspires to, but doesn't have that gristly adult(erous) chemistry that shocked an impressionable young boy into lonely middle-age in Joseph Losey's masterpiece, The Go-Between. In fact it's much more Upstairs Downstairs in its dinner-table squabbles and gossipy maids. The sultry love interest is Irene Jacob, who is engaged to the dastardly smoothie, Uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell). Colin Firth is Fraser's crackpot father who invents all sorts of uses for moss, and who lusts secretly after Heloise. Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio is his jealous wife. It's all very twitchy, repressed and stilted. In oth r words, perfect for family outings.

I'm going to have to delurk and express my "ROTFLOL" over this thread re: ODB's LA digs... Too funny! BTW the interview WAS at the Pasadena Ritz Carlton. It's not unusual to do interviews here, because they use the hotel often for press junkets (the other one is the 4 Seasons in Beverly Hills) I have several guesses as to where ODB may reside-- Venice: Borders SaMo, yet is less pretentious. The 'Hackney' of the Westside set. Juliana Marguiles from ER lives there, as well as other low-key celebs The Valley (Jana! You may be neighbors!): It's accessible to Malibu and Brentwood, which allows less commute time to see his son. Silverlake/Loz Feliz: It's still in LA proper, but I'd say that even though CF says he lives outside of LA, he may not know where the borders begin/end. Heck- I've been here 10 years, almost, and still have no clue! West Hollywood: because it's MY neighborhood and it would be such fun to have him live here!

KJ, you're not gonna believe this, but a couple of years ago, someone (Murph, I think it might have been you!) found a website for a hair salon in SM (I think) that listed its celeb customers, and CF was among them. RE: Brentwood--I've heard Meg had a house there while they also lived at the place in the wilderness.;-) ************ Mari, I DO remember it. I had forgotten. I did a search and found it. It was a couple of years ago. Good memory. At that Pasadena interview CF was dressed in shorts and sandals, as I recall, and Livia, who had been shopping, came by toward the end. Murph

Thanks to FOF Francoise, for this update--the RV website is now open. Go to: www.relative-values.com Looks like they've done a superb job with this site! New CF pic, plus quotes, and seems like there's more to come.

RV London premiere info is there as well.

Neat! So much for "they'll let me know ahead of time" and that software spy thing. Argh, should've put up the quotes as they didn't bother to hold up their end.

Thanks, Mari! From Relative Values. He does look like his brother here.

From the Standard: My Life So Far (12) Colin Firth, Rosemary Harris, Irene Jacob, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio. Dir: Hugh Hudson. UK. 2000. 99mins. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- by Alexander Walker Read Alexander Walker on the latest films every Thursday in the Evening Standard David Puttnam's last production (so far) has been awaiting a release for two years or more. Hard to see why. Directed by Hugh Hudson, it's a satisfying essay in boyhood nostalgia in the 1920s, Scottish to be precise, Sir Denis Forman's to individualise it further. Seen through the eyes of precocious young Denis, aka Fraser for the purpose of the semi-fictional period coat of varnish, it's a portrait of privilege that would delight the Scottish Tory party. The Scottish Arts Council has forked out �1 million of National Lottery cash to make up the �5.12 million budget: a high-risk sum to recoup, but better value than most of the Lottery's misspent millions south of the border. Pubescent Fraser (Robert Norman) grows up with a feckless but idolised dad (Colin Firth) who harvests sphagnum moss and invents dotty planes and automobiles; a loving Mumsy (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio); a rakish, cosmopolitan millionaire uncle (Malcolm McDowell) with a French wife (Ir�ne Jacob) half his age; and a bossy but gold-standard granny (Rosemary Harris). The lad's awakening coincides with his dad's infidelity, but no great harm is done save a scrap twixt uncle and dad on the carpet. Its charm would be suffocating were the acting not needle sharp and it's a treat for toffs and buffs alike to see kindly servants knowing their place, the gentry at dinner or ice curling, enough Fair Isle sweaters to make moths drunk, fly-casting taught to the beat of Beethoven's Fifth and sex safely and amusingly misinterpreted by the lad. Coming from an Irish Presbyterian family not unlike this, but considerably farther down the money ladder, I surrendered easily to the seductive picture of life as it once was (for some). Lord Puttnam's present patrons may be harder to persuade.

From the Financial Times today: In My Life so Far a perky international cast (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Irene Jacob, Tcheky Karyo, Rosemary Harris, Malcolm McDowell) adds needed lustre to Hugh Chariots of Fire Hudson's adaptation of Sir Denis Forman's boyhood memoir of life with eccentric dad (Colin Firth) in a Scottish castle. Thin but goodhearted. The jolly music will tell you are enjoying yourself whether you are or not. -Nigel Andrews

Terrific RV website Mari, thanks.V. impressive. Congratulations Murph, your Appreciation Page is featured prominently in the links. ....from the Online Store... Signed items related to Relative Values and its stars Makes one think Colin might sell autographed items....hmmmmm. Hey.... a dollar here...a dollar there.... Interactive Chat....Let's request that they get Colin into the Chat Room:-)) definitely, a Favorite bookmark.... The CD soundtrack sounds like a "go":-) So, who's going to the premiere?

Here's Barry Norman's review from Sky news: MY LIFE SO FAR My Life So Far is the last film produced by David - beg his pardon, Lord - Puttnam before he went off to do loftier things on behalf of the government's education programme. It was directed by Hugh Hudson, with whom Puttnam made the Oscar-winning Chariots Of Fire, and is based on the autobiography of Sir Denis Forman, director of the Royal Opera House. I mean, blimey, all the toffs connected with this film - you feel like tugging your forelock, don't you? What it all amounts to, however, is a nostalgic and gently entertaining tale of an unconventional childhood in the Scottish Highlands. The child, very well played by Robbie Norman - no relation of mine, incidentally - has an erratic father, Colin Firth, and a gorgeous mum, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio. All of these are threatened in some way by a possibly wicked uncle, Malcolm McDowell, and his introduction into their midst of his enchanting French fiancee, Irene Jacob. It's all very anecdotal and episodic and doesn't really amount to much. But it's rather charming and, not surprisingly given the cast, very well played.

IMO All the reviews hve been excellent. This film has all the ingredients and reviews to succeed in the UK.I shall be v. disappointed if it doesn't attract a large audience.

I shall be v. disappointed if it doesn't attract a large audience. But it is only showing in a few cinemas. I haven't been able to check completely but it seems that it is only showing in London at the Curzon in Mayfair, ABC Hampstead and the Odeon Kensington. They obviously figure that a film about the upper classes will only be watched by them!

I think "excellent" might be stretching it a bit for these reviews. But not bad, if a bit dismissive and brief. Will be lots more to come (and hopefully more in-depth). Thanks for posting Peter, Moon. Definitely a Geoffrey Clifton look--maybe it's the tux.;-) And if this role is based somewhat on Coward himself, well, I suppose that answers the question on Peter's proclivities.;-) (Evelyn) Interactive Chat....Let's request that they get Colin into the Chat Room:-)) Hey, let's try! If it's sanctioned by the website/producers, he just might surprise us. Or not.;-)

There's also a little piece in the Evening Standard's 'hot tickets' in addition to the (one star = good) review, with pic of CF & MEM, in the main paper (thanks Mari you saved me a job!)which goes as follows: 'MY LIFE SO FAR (12) Colin Firth....... Based on the childhood memories of former TV magnate Sir Denis Forman and set in the Twenties, Hugh Hudson's movie views an eccentric and talented family through the eyes of Forman's ten year-old alter ego who discovers the joys of jazz and the lesser ones of his grandfathers cigars. The household is a bit tense over the appearance of his uncle's beautiful French fiancee, yearned for by the boy, but alsoby his papa. It's cosy and anecdotal, the Scottish equivalent of many a French or Italian rites of passage nostalgia comedy.' who's set her sights on this mysterious pilot who drops from the sky on to their lawn.

Whoops forget the bit about the pilot.....Dur!

it is only showing in London at the Curzon in Mayfair, ABC Hampstead and the Odeon Kensington. They obviously figure that a film about the upper classes will only be watched by them! I would not imagine the Trainspotting crowd rushing to see this. Those cinemas are exactly where this film should be playing, and I that goes for RV as well. Evelyn, I am happy to say it looks like the shirt fits! ;-) I am most meticulous about these matters. Colin in the Chat room!? A dream.

(Allison)it is only showing in London at the Curzon in Mayfair, ABC Hampstead and the Odeon Kensington. They obviously figure that a film about the upper classes will only be watched by them! (Moon)I would not imagine the Trainspotting crowd rushing to see this. Those cinemas are exactly where this film should be playing, and I that goes for RV as well. Ditto. Notice they kept it out of Leicester Sq. But the older crowd are the ones who keep screaming that" they don't make films like they used to"...well here it is, folks.

Trouble is in Mayfair, Hampstead and Kensington they go to live theatre...

I think "excellent" might be stretching it a bit for these reviews. But not bad, if a bit dismissive and brief. Will be lots more to come (and hopefully more in-depth). (Mari) In the UK context, I think these are very good reviews for a British film....I'm quite relieved to read them! Reviews are often extremely dismissive and are rarely very long...except for the big opener. For example, if you want to read a bad review...how about these snippets from the Times, about other films reviewed along with MLSF. "Snow Falling on Cedars"...."what doesn't move is the film itself. Puffed up with a sense of its own uimportance, it floats on hot blasts of artistic pretension..if you stuck a pin it it, it would burst." "Best" (Brit movie about famous footballer" "An arrant piece of mythmaking which backfires with all the grace of a bull passing wind. John Lynch's Best looks guilty of homicide." "Hanging up" (Diane Keaton et al) ...."Nora Ephron's latest slush fest should be injected into a reinforced block a nd dumped into one of those unfathomable Pacific trenches that eluded Jacques Cousteau" Ouch!! MLSF got off lightly by comparison. "Perfect for family outings" is high praise!! I think three theatres for MLSF is okay, especially as it's showing at the Curzon. I'm glad that Alexander Walker (Evening Standard) liked it...that review really matters. I think the Daily Mail will like it, the Telegraph and Express 50/50 and I'm not reading the Guardian, Independent or Times Metro (different reviewer from the Times!) BTW Irene Jacob is advertised on the front of Saturday's Times Metro...promoting MLSF? Londinium??!! (What's happening to Mike Binder's opus?) Great to see the RV website....I've got a good feelinng about RV. I think it could be a winner. And premiering in the Odeon Leicester Square is very good news indeed...that's where all the Bond movies etc premiere, the biggest single theatre in London, I think...2000 plus seats. This will be well promoted!!

Don't think RV will be in the Bond category...but I think it will be a cute movie. Julie Andrews,& Alec Baldwin will promote it.And try and stop Stephen Fry from being on every talk show. But the same target audience as MLSF....the folks who go to the theatre.

(Moon Dreams) ...I love hats and long white gloves. ;-) "Bella Luna". I always suspected you as being a woman of elegance. You're no doubt a person of style who can pull off that look no matter where you are. (LisaJH) Hi CherylB, nice to "meet" you, too. Aren't you the lucky soul who was involved with the production of Valmont? I thought I had read old posts of yours before I originally came on board in 1998. Guess we have been like ships in the night, eh? Alas no, that was not I. That would have been CherylE, and I know her only from old posts, as well. She was also more astute and articulate than I. Her spelling was better, too. Regarding my statement: I found the question as to whether CF and LG would have children rather rude. It is between the two of them, and really no one else's business...(LisaJH) I agreee the press should keep its nose out of the family info, but ODB could have said "pass" again. Maybe CF thought these comments were off the record. His candor surprised me. You do have a point. My comment came off more sharply than intended. Also, my reaction was colored by feelings I have toward what some friends of mine are going through. Basically as a fan I don't want to be too prying. I don't mean that to sound judgemental about any other fan's behavior. I pretty much think that everyone posting on this board is respectful toward Mr. Firth. I just feel it's such a personal issue. You are, however, right; CF did choose to answer the question.

I found the old article set in Santa Monica. Here is the beginning of it. Will run now and look at RV. - Murph ***************************** By BART MILLS (Sunday Mail, 11/10/96) The shambling figure with a week's growth of beard and ginger hair in wild ringlets weanng sandals and non-descnpt T-shirts and jeans attracts no glances on the busy street in sunny Santa Monica, two blocks from the Pacific The olive-skinned woman with him turns some heads though as she glides away to go window shopping, while the beach bum who is Colin Firth behind those dark glasses, sits down at a pavement cafe and explains why Los Angeles is his uncomfortable second home. Sub]ect: Firth Article in Sunday Mail 10th November 1996 MR DARCY WHERE HAVE YOV BEEN? BART MILLS The shambling figure with a week's growth of beard and ginger hair in wild ringlets wearing sandals and non-descript T-shirts and jeans attracts no glances on the busy street in sunny Santa Monica, two blocks from the Pacific. The olive-skinned woman with him turns some heads though as she glides away to go window-shopping. While the beach bum who is Colin Firth behind those dark glasses sits down at a pavement cafe and explains why Los Angeles is his uncomfortable second home. Firth has dealt with Darcy fever by being elsewhere, doing otherwise. As he always has when faced with success, after Pride and Prejudice he sought to muffle the fanfare that greeted his most romantic portrayal His escape route into new personae was via Columbia and Tunisia to play tragic obsessives in two doom laden dramas. Nostromo and The English Patient. And he flew, every chance he had to LA. He's here not to seek roles in Hollywood action movies but to spend time with his six-year-old son Will. Long range fatherhood, encouraged by the boy's mother actress Meg Tilly, who lives there now, is a measure of Firth's maturity: he's here "almost all of the time I'm not working", he says. His relationship with 26 year old Livia Guiggioli, the Italian beauty accompanying him in Santa Monica is a measure of his continued boyishness: he's with her in Rome "a lot." And when she is not studying for her doctorate in English literature at Rome University, she, in turn, is with Colin at his L150.000 flat in Hackney, ast London "a lot". Darcy fever never really hit home. By the time Pride and Prejudice was screened Firth was already well into filming The English Patient with Ralph Fiennes in Tunisia and completely oblivious of the nationwide fluttering of hearts in Britain. "I had to take my mother's word for it, that people liked it. When your mother tells you something like that you take it with a grain of salt. Anyway you can't walk around feeling thrilled indefinitely about even the biggest success," he says "Things get old. I've done four jobs since then. Let's be realistic. I dyed my hair and put on a costume. Darcy has been a sex symbol far nearly 200 years now without my help."

Please excuse the repeats in this Mills thing. I scanned it, and not too carfully either! Murph

(Bethan) "Best" (Brit movie about famous footballer) "An arrant piece of mythmaking which backfires with all the grace of a bull passing wind. ROTFLMAO! (Evelyn) Julie Andrews,& Alec Baldwin will promote it. It's not Alec, it's little brother Billy (though I suppose Alec could promote it if he wanted to).

(Bethan) For example, if you want to read a bad review...how about these snippets from the Times, about other films reviewed along with MLSF. "Snow Falling on Cedars" and "Hanging Up" But those were huge bombs, especially SFOC (had gorgeous cinematography though). I saw that with Scott Hicks and Ethan Hawke in attendance, taking Q&A afterward. You've never seen such a large audience struggling to say complimentary thing. It so obviously sucked. MLSF got off lightly by comparison. "Perfect for family outings" is high praise!! Yes, we so frequently forget the nature of your reviewers. :-(

"Bella Luna" thanks you Cheryl. I have always said it is better to be overdressed than underdressed. And I am particular about the fit of a man's shirt when he is suited up. I'll take the Geoffrey look anyday over sandals, a non-descript T-shirt and jeans. ;-)

Here's the BBC's review: My Life So Far Reviewed by Michael Thomson Director: Hugh Hudson Cast: Robbie Norman, Colin Firth, Rosemary Harris, Irene Jacob, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Malcolm McDowell, Tcheky Karyo Running-time: 96 mins Certificate: 12 Distributor: Buena Vista Release Date:12th May 2000 "My Life So Far" has the feel of a beginner's enterprise, not the work of established heavyweights Hugh Hudson (director) and David Puttnam (producer). Yet both chaps, once regarded as the very foundations - and saviours - of the British film industry ("Chariots of Fire" was theirs), haven't exactly been an overwhelming presence in recent years so perhaps they thought it best to creep back with a small, unpretentious project. This is, by the way, the first time they've worked together since Chariots. Like their famous film, "My Life So Far" has Puttnam's hallmarks of decency, morality and the independent spirit, and a love of a period long since gone. The film - set in the 20s - concerns a wee Scottish boy, Fraser (Robbie Norman), living a privileged, rural life, doted on by an eccentric inventor dad determined to make a go of moss-processing (Colin Firth) and his wise, patient mum (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio). The sensitive Fraser absorbs ideas and influences from all around him and so, after the arrival of his colourful, free-spirited uncle (Malcolm McDowell) and his gorgeous, exotic fiancee (Irene Jacob), he finally begins to grow up. After an embarrassing row involving his parents, Fraser realises that adulthood will be complex, less certain, but probably equally enjoyable. Despite the twin entertainments of a crisply judgemental Malcolm McDowell and an oddball Colin Firth, not to mention the cheerful curiosity of newcomer Robbie Norman, the picture is too lazy to exert much emotional pull, and the need for it to be reshaped is matched by a requirement for more fully-realised characters. A more surprising script would have also lent more weight. Still, "My Life So Far" is often jolly, amusing, charming and always good to look at. The Scottish Tourist Board will be somersaulting with delight. �

Still hoping for The Maid of Buttermere, here is Bragg news from the British Press Association: Melvyn Bragg wins prize for novel inspired by father Lord Bragg today won a �10,000 literary prize for a novel inspired by his father and said: "I wish he was here today." The broadcaster and writer took the W H Smith Literary Award 2000 for his acclaimed book The Soldier's Return. The novel tells the tale of a soldier who returns to Britain after the Second World War and his struggles to adjust to his experiences in a town which has changed little while he has been through traumatic experiences. Lord Bragg was presented with his prize by Arts Minister Alan Howarth at an award lunch in London. The shocked South Bank Show presenter said: "Well, this wasn't in the script. I'm very surprised, I was surprised to even be on the shortlist. "More than that I'm delighted. This book was triggered by the death of my father. Like millions in this country he spent six years of his young life abroad then came back to find a young child, in my case nearly seven, who had grown." Professor John Carey, chair of the judging panel, said: "This restrained but compelling novel is both an intimate social documentary and a moving human story." Murph

The novel tells the tale of a soldier who returns to Britain after the Second World War and his struggles to adjust to his experiences in a town which has changed little while he has been through traumatic experiences. Shades of AMITC....perfect for ODB.We'll take it:-)

I agree, Evelyn, and thanks for the RV plug. I am honored, and told them so. They should see Karen's great pages too, and add them. I love your 50's look, Karen. I found an old interview with CF by Rees, scanned it, and have it on my site. After reading it a few years ago, I even wrote an T.S. Eliot parody poem about it. Here is the article URL: http://www.geocities.com/firthfan/independ.html Murph

Long interview with David Puttnam as he "struggles to promote his last ever movie" http://www.independent.co.uk/enjoyment/Film/Interviews/puttnam120500.shtml Says this about the movie: With its rather charming mixture of old-fashioned narrative values and a slight water-wash of indefinable melancholy, it is classic Puttnam fare. It won't shake the world: no, it's far more likely to give it a jolly good hug. Haven't posted Anthony Quinn's review of the film yet

Here's a two-and-a-half star review from something called The Wolf (no relation to my relations I assure you) at inside out film (a UK film site): GROWING up with a herd of brothers and sisters in a vast pile on the west coast of Scotland sounds wild and exciting. Judging by the way director Hugh Hudson and scriptwriter Simon Donald have tackled the early life of Sir Denis Forman, you wouldn't know it. Despite brave efforts by Colin Firth as the unpredictable inventor father, Malcolm McDowell as Uncle Maurice, and Rosemary Harris as the matriarchal grandmother, no-one feels comfortable. It is supposed to be eight-year-old Fraser's story, but seems to be a boy's eye view of adult behavior. Robert Norman, as Fraser, does not act like a child who has spent his whole life in the country. The Edwardian household, choking with servants, both indoor and out, revolves around the eccentric behaviour of Dad, whether he is blowing up bits of moor for his moss factory, or having Fraser launch a model airplane from the roof. What is missing is kiddies' fun. There are about seven of them and they never do anything together that doesn't involve a parent. You would expect that behind the green baize door a whole world of mischief, games and devilish plots exists, like a parallel universe. But no. Even their kilts are clean and their knees unscuffed. Other details are misplaced. It is only in movies that posh folk go shooting with their 12-bores broken under their arms. Fraser is seen fishing in the loch and returns with his rod in two parts, which means he would have untied the cast from the line, taken the rod to pieces, pocketed the reel, just to walk a few hundred yards home. Also, there is a grouse plucking scene in the kitchen, in which the cook and two scullery maids are tearing at the birds as if they have lost their minds. The only sniff of drama is when Dad makes a pass at Uncle Maurice's "exotic child fianc�e", the 24-year-old Eloise (Irene Jacob - so far out of her depth she disappears). Nothing comes of it, except an absurd scene when Mumsy (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) gives him a tongue lashing a few months later in front of the children and assorted guests. One thing the upper classes are good at is not making a fuss in public. ~~~~~~~ Will go check if Wolf was so critical of, say, Gladiator? ;-)

Murph, they have seen my pages and asked where I got my material, especially the trailer. ~~~~~~ The Guardian's Peter Bradshaw: The early life of the arts grandee Sir Denis Forman furnishes the material for My Life So Far, an amiable piece of whimsy about a young boy's magical, enchanted boyhood in 30s Scotland, directed by Hugh Hudson and co-produced by David Puttnam in the mould of the pre-Cool Britannia British film: gently charming, with a sense of period. Colin Firth plays Edward, an eccentric inventor idolised by his 10-year-old son Fraser (Robert Norman). With the semi-comprehending eyes of a child, he witnesses the tensions that arise when his Uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell) brings home his beautiful young fianc�e, Heloise (Ir�ne Jacob). I found the movie's darker moments did not carry much conviction and Firth seemed a little too impassive, and maybe just a little too young in the role of the exotic paterfamilias. But Hudson's direction carries the film's fey and ingenuous qualities well, and the locations by Loch Fyne in the Highlands are a delight.

Just glanced through the "reviews" in the other papers. Jonathon Ross in the Mirror likes it! But I was wrong about the Daily Mail... Chris Tookey doesn't like it (2stars) and says that CF is miscast...that he is boring,stiff and patronising instead of entertaining and fun. (I thought that Edward was supposed to be severely flawed?) Matthew Bond in The Telegraph is very dismissive... says that it has no plot and is suitable only for a ten year old boy, no mention of the cast. Pity about the Telegraph because it's the worst review (very unperceptive and brief) and their readership is the potential MLSF audience. But apart from the Mail and Telegraph, I think the reviews are okay. BTW "Wolf" will like "Gladiator"..... "Wolf" is the name of one of the hosts of the TV show "Gladiators!"

Daily Mail's Christopher Tookey - two stars. Director Hugh Hudson and producer David Puttnam haven't had a hit since COF, almost 20 years ago. MLSF won't change that. It's a nostalgic account of the hugely privileged, mostly enviable but remarkably uneventful early life of the former Granada TV chief Sir Denis Forman. Shown on Sunday night television, it might pass muster for its attractive Scottish scenery and good performance by Robert Norman as the young Sir Dennis, here renamed Fraser, and MES as his mother. But Colin Firth is stiff, uneasy nd miscast as Forman's father. He is intended to be a lovable eccentric with a roving eye. Instead, he comes across as a prejudiced, patronising bore. This film passes the time amiably enough, but it lacks the insights or universality which made an arthouse hit of its obvious model, My Life As A Dog. Small pic of CF as Edward.

details are misplaced This is a major problem in films today. My husband always sees them too. Still, those reviews posted above missed the point. And because they are the papers that the MLSF audience read, it is terrible luck. :-(

Review from the Independent: "Hugh Hudson's My Life So Far is one of those "magic of childhood" movies that tries to compensate for its shortage of drama by piling on the pictorial charm. Set during the 1920s, it concerns a 10year-old boy's getting of wisdom one summer on his family's beautiful estate in the Scottish Highlands, where his madcap father (CF) pioneers not-so-great inventions and becomes dizzily infatuated with another man's wife (IJ). A first-rate cast - MEM, KMcD and MMcD - provide a pleasant distraction as the film meanders through a minor crisis and then to a les-than-rousing conclusion. You won't be alone in wondering why the hell you bothered with it." ouch! I really think that on the whole MLSF was much better received in the US than here, and some reviews were very enthusiatic compared to the rather bland ones here, oh well.

At the BBC Online news, there's an item about Malcolm MacDowell and there are audio links (on left side), where he talks about MLSF: http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/newsid_743000/743880.stm

According to the popcorn site, MLSF is playing at 17 cinemas nationwide. One additional in London area (Richmond), but rest are in Scotland: ABC Hampstead Location: London North Dominion, Edinburgh Location: Edinburgh Mayfair Curzon Location: London West End Odeon Glasgow The Quay Multiplex Location: Glasgow Odeon Kensington Location: London West End Odeon Kilmarnock Location: Kilmarnock Odeon Studio Richmond Location: London South UCI Kinnaird Park, Edinburgh Location: Edinburgh UCI Olympia Centre, East Kilbride Location: East Kilbride UGC Cinema Edinburgh Location: Edinburgh

....MLSF is playing at 17 cinemas nationwide. That's v. encouraging.With the exception of the DM which is just plain mean, I think the reivews are better than expected. Some of the criticisms are on target: ...an absurd scene when Mumsy (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) gives him a tongue lashing a few months later in front of the children and assorted guests. One thing the upper classes are good at is not making a fuss in public. We all brought that up last summer. ~~~~~~~~ the film meanders through a minor crisis and then to a less-than-rousing conclusion. Waltzing in the rain would have been a better ending. ~~~~~ At least no one has brought up the fact of how old this film is. And MEM hasn't told us her newborn-then is now in kindergarten...sheech.

How does MLSF end in the UK release? In the US release it ends with the scene of Frasier swirling the milk in the brandy snifter and Edward's gorgeous face closing the door.

Browsing at the newstand...there's a mention of MLSF in this week's "Hello" (a pic of Cherie Blair at the premiere of "Colin Firth's new movie". And there's a good review of MLSF in the Financial Times (must be available online..?) All very positive comments. The FT is definitely the top person's newspaper (good penetration in Mayfair and Kensington!)!...and has the same circulation as the Telegraph. Also the Telegraph review is now online (sorry, have forgotten the link). It's not as bad as I thought, I suppose. Bad if you compare it with "Gladiator" which is "brilliant", but par for the course compared with the other reviews. "Director HH needed bucketfuls of charm to make this lightweight piece work. He failed to find them. Instead we have a nice setting, potentially interesting characters,but no plot at all....a rites of passage story of a young boy smitten with his new auntie and his grandfather's collection of pornography. May be enough for a ten year old but not the rest of us". Hmmm! But overall, MLSF has fared well...and it's had a good review from the FT and also the Daily Mirror's reviewer liked it (largest circulation tabloid!). Both ends of the spectrum.

Agree with Evelyn; aside from that ridiculous Wolf review (who gives a flying f*** if the fishing rod is in two pieces, I ask you), the reviews aren't bad. This isn't a perfect movie but all who frequent these hallowed halls of Drool should love it. ;-)

The reviews I'm most interested in are from the people here. If anyone catches it this weekend, please report in with your thoughts. I love this film and never get tired of hearing or talking about it.:-)

I am seeing it tomorrow Mari, will let you know what I think of it, can't wait.

(Donna)How does MLSF end in the UK release? In the US release it ends with the scene of Frasier swirling the milk in the brandy snifter and Edward's gorgeous face closing the door. I don't know what country you saw it in, Donna;-) In the US, when I saw it, Edward and Moira are waltzing in the rain in "nightclothes attire". In Australia, it was shown with Frasier going off to school and some remark from Edward about 'fellatio'...."I wouldn't do that at school..." I dunno...do you think they thought that would make it more appealing to the British? (Going off to boarding school, that is;-) ;-)

(Evelyn) In the US, when I saw it, Edward and Moira are waltzing in the rain in "nightclothes attire". Really? They didn't show the end bit in Dallas (and any of the other states to which you had to travel in order to see it)? I remember the ending as Donna described (it came after the rain waltz). Same on the video I saw in January.

Sorry..apologies all around. I thought the rain-bit came at the Very End. Yeah...we got the kid and the cigar too. Not going away to school though.

The Times Metro section has a short blurb by Kathleen Wyatt that doesn't even mention Colin's name: FRASER PETTIGREW (Robert Norman) is a ten year-old who leads an idyllic life in the Scottish Highlands. Into the tranquil scenario intrudes money-minded Uncle Morris (Malcolm McDowell), and other distractions such as his mother (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio). Never riveting, but a charming film nonetheless. Then there's a long interview with Irene Jacob; here's some of it: A few bits of Hollywood fluff clogged her enviable early CV. But My Life so Far offers Ir�ne Jacob a role worthy of her powers - and her sultry presence. Jerome Boyd Maunsell meets her in Paris Her latest film, My Life so Far, is something altogether different. It may boast an impressive cast, with Colin Firth, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, and ex-droog Malcolm McDowell. But the overall feel of the movie doesn't lay claims to great sophistication. Seen through the eyes of Fraser (Robbie Norman), a precocious ten-year-old boy, My Life so Far is a light-hearted family portrait set on an estate in the Scottish Highlands. Fraser relates his childhood in this idyllic setting, a life dominated by the pranks of his eccentric father (Firth), until reality arrives in the form of his hard-headed millionaire uncle (McDowell) and his French fianc�e, Heloise (Jacob). It's not long, though, before the vivacious Heloise stirs up all kinds of trouble. Asked about her role in the film, Jacob's hazel-brown eyes widen mischievously: "It was fun for me to find this part, because I've played a lot of tormented roles in the past. It was very spontaneous, despite the costumes and being a period film. I think it was a very unpretentious story, about this boy growing up and discovering his sensuality. It's wonderful that the film talks about that - at ten or 11 boys are already full of desire. It's not something that wakes up at 18. Now when I see young boys like my nephews I can see it bursting out, like spring, they want to know, to love, already they are sensitive to beauty." Jacob initially met the director Hugh Hudson to discuss a part in his planned adaptation of Joseph Conrad's Nostromo. The project never transpired, and the director famed for Chariots of Fire ended up making My Life so Far instead. The troubles he encountered with the failed big-budget adaptation go some way to explaining this film's charm and slightness. "Hugh decided to do something simple, that he could relate to. He told us this film was an appetiser. It's not a big meal, just something which gives you a taste, enough to want more," says Jacob.

There's a colour photo of CF though, after the review, and a small B&W one of CF and IJ in the article on IJ. Metro reviews are capsule reviews - no space. But MLSF gets 3 stars, which is good, as Metro is definitely aimed at a younger audience. I like the interview with IJ..she's currently doing theatre in paris...she sounds very nice and unpretentious. Has a 3 year relationship with a mysterious Englishman "not an actor".

The troubles he encountered with the failed big-budget adaptation go some way to explaining this film's charm and slightness. Failed big-budget? Meaning what, exactly? There weren't decent script and film editors available for that sort of money? They should've asked me! *** Here's something to brighten your weekend everywhere across the world... A present from Allison and Three Deers. (Well, only One Deer in fact: that's because the other Deers are having time off at the moment.) http://www.geocities.com/threedeers/gmtv/imagesgmtv.html

A full page feature on Sir Denis Forman in this week's "Hampstead and Highgate Express" (the Ham and High, as it is known, takes itself very seriously as the weekly local newspaper, it is widely read locally). Sir Denis is a local resident apparently. It's a long article which I am afraid I cannot type in full but the interesting bits are: "My Life So Far could not have come from a better stable. Produced by David Puttnam, directed by Hugh Hudson of Chariots of Fire fame, it stars Colin Firth as Sir Denis's father, the Adam of the original title. For the Firth portrayal, Sir Denis has nothing but praise. "He is my father to a T - the way he walked, the way he talked. I did send them some old hime movies, which I assume he saw, but it really is almost uncanny. A wonderful performance." BTW MLSF is showing at a cinema in Hampstead, so this is good publicity for it. Also the Ham And High has wide readership locally and as the area is stuffed with movers and shakers, that is good for CF's reputation too.

To all moms and grandmoms and moms of feathered and four legged children too! UKer's, enjoy MLSF, and Maria, thanks for the pictures. Whatta smile the man has got. Murph P.S. I have the long legged look from The Times on my main page now, plus some quotes toward the bottom of the page.

Love the captures from the premiere, Arami and Allison. Colin looks awfully good when he cleans up and puts on suit. Thanks, ladies. Interesting quotes and high priase for CF from Sir Denis. Was thinking that he had dissociated himself from the project because this is the first we've heard from him. Also thought the same for Hugh Hudson because he was noticeably absent during last year's promotion...obviously he was busy making another masterpiece like I Dreamed of Africa. ;-)

(Arami) Failed big-budget? Meaning what, exactly? They're referring to Hudson's Nostromo which, thankfully, never got off the ground. Admittedly, a very awkwardly written paragraph.;-) I absolutely love the captures from the premiere! He doesn't look uncomfortable at all, at least from these stills. Was it something in his manner which made you feel otherwise? He is gorgeous, oh my, I'm drooling here . . .;-) He is just as handsome and appealing offscreen as on (if not more so). Looking at these candids, and remembering the wonderful ones taken by Elena at 3DOR . . .mmmmmmm . . . need a bucket.;-) Many thanks for these, Arami and Allison. Well done, ladies. Nice quotes from Denis Forman, too.