According to a list I pulled last night, RV is playing at 80 theaters in the UK, probably not enough to make a dent in the box office charts. If anyone is curious, I can post it. Thanks, Tracy, for the new reviews. Am wondering how some people can write that Colin is underplaying the role and some how he is having great fun CAMPING it up.

Interview with Colin at Film Unlimited today: Firth goes forth With a non-romantic role in Noel Coward's Relative Values, followed by Bridget Jones' Diary, Colin Firth is playing against his "dashing" screen persona Steve Rose Saturday June 24, 2000 He's still best known as TV heart-throb Mr Darcy in the BBC's 1995 dramatisation of Pride And Prejudice, but Colin Firth's cinema work has been equally impressive. From his debut with Rupert Everett in Another Country, he's developed into a reliable character actor in features such as The English Patient and Shakespeare In Love (he also plays Shakespeare himself in the Millennium Dome's Blackadder film), mixing in more contemporary films such as Nick Hornby's Fever Pitch. In the current Noel Coward adaptation, Relative Values, he plays the foppish cousin of lady of the manor Julie Andrews. Was the prospect of working with Julie Andrews daunting? There's no question she has legendary status. But she was a wonderful team leader in an old-fashioned sort of way. You know, rallying the troops and keeping spirits high, reminding us to keep our backs straight. The film addresses Anglo-American tensions and differences. Were there any on set? It's funny, I do find that American actors tend to be irrationally in awe of English actors and the whole English tradition. And we envy American actors for their ease in front of the camera. I think, certainly in the press, there's a sort of self-loathing for our own cinema at the moment, but that's not how it's perceived abroad. The Americans all perceive us to be highly trained and to have this theatrical discipline, some sort of substance which they lack, which I don't think is really true to be honest. So generally there's no tension. If anything, there's a tremendous mutual respect, probably slightly baseless. You're in the middle of Bridget Jones' Diary. Is it refreshing not to be doing a costume drama? Everything's a costume drama really. It's all an artificial world you're creating, and in some ways it feels far more artificial trying to re-create the present day. It's very odd, you get bogged down in far more difficult detail when you do modern stuff than when you're doing period. If you're playing Mr Darcy [in Pride And Prejudice] you just say he'd wear one of those sorts of frocks and it would probably be blue, whereas with the modern stuff you really get caught up in some tricky decisions - what kind of trainers would he wear, etc. The audience knows what the reference points are. You, Colin Firth, actually feature as Bridget Jones' fantasy in the book. Does that make things complicated? No, thankfully they've dispensed with all references to me in the film. You did actually meet Helen Fielding, though, didn't you? Yes, the interview she does in the second book, I was part of the contrivance. It was a sort of performed conversation we had, which was very funny. I don't know how conscious she was, but she sort of went into "Bridget" mode, which was rather different from her. Does that mean you had to go into Colin mode? Well I did a bit. I tried to be a bit more serious, and less patient. There are also rumours that you're going to play Tony Blair. This often happens: I read what I'm going to do in the papers, but no one's told me about it. Did you entertain the prospect for a while? Well, it depends, it's very hard for those things to work when they are so contemporary. It's better to wait 10 years or so to get a perspective on it, but by that time I'll be old enough to do the Enoch Powell story or something.

BTW, Film Unlimited summarizes the ratings of RV as follows: The Times (9/10) Evening Standard (6/10) Daily Mail (4/10) Mirror (8/10) Daily Telegraph (8/10) Guardian (6/10) Independent (5/10)

You, Colin Firth, actually feature as Bridget Jones' fantasy in the book. Does that make things complicated? No, thankfully they've dispensed with all references to me in the film. Darn! Leaving that stuff in would make the film much funnier.

This is especially for us non-UKers, who may not realize how sarcastic that last remark of Colin's was because we don't know about Enoch Powell. Here's a news article from 1998, when he died: Mr Powell was one of the most controversial British politicians of his generation and a powerful orator. His opposition to black immigration thrust him into the headlines in the late nineteen-sixties. In one of his most famous and controversial speeches he warned that unchecked immigration could lead to violence in British cities, and that rivers of blood would flow as a result. In the national outcry that followed, the Conservative Party leader Edward Heath denounced Mr Powell as a racist and sacked him from the shadow cabinet.

Ladies, I have seen RV for the second time and in a better frame of mind and I have to say "it improves upon acquaintance". Colin seems to be having a great time so what the heck and today the audience responded to all his one-liners. So please disregard my previous comments, I think you will all enjoy it, it is fun. Aishling enjoyed it and it seemed so did the 40-50 audience. My only complaint and that of several others, was the the background music was too loud and one missed one or two of the one-liners, which was a shame. Yes it was fun.

That's really good news, Ann! I'm looking forward to seeing it! According to a list I pulled last night, RV is playing at 80 theaters in the UK, probably not enough to make a dent in the box office charts. (Karen) Must be showing at far more venues in the south, than way up north! IMHO it doesn't really matter whether it shows in the charts or not (needs about 200 theatres to do this), but what's important is that it has registered as a movie. It featured on the national news, and there have been lots of interviews and articles. So many films just come and go (sadly, MLSF was one), and the names just don't make any impact. Next week, we get "Chicken Run" and the week after, "Mission Impossible 2"....there's such a rapid turnover that most films are instantly forgotten. Thanks for the Film Unlimited interview, Karen! He makes (as always) some good points. I don't give up on the Man who would be PM (aka Tony Blair) project though...CF said same thing about Mark Darcy. His comment about "perspective" is valid though, but if it's a satirical drama, it has to be contemporary. A lot depends on the screenplay. Our political scene is really hotting up, and the script could be very controversial!

Great to hear that you've seen RV in a new light and that you and Aishling both enjoyed it. Must be showing at far more venues in the south, than way up north! You can check out the locations here and sort them out if you can. Seems to be a true UK listing, as has Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland included. http://www.spring.net/karenr/cinemalstings.txt

Agree, Susan. I hope that doesn't mean the Pride & Prejudice references will also be removed. The abridged audiotape I have of BJD virtually wiped out all P&P/Colin Firth references, showing that it's possible to do it though highly undesirable IMO. ;-) There are also rumours that you're going to play Tony Blair. This often happens: I read what I'm going to do in the papers, but no one's told me about it. LOL! Sound familiar? Suspiciously like what he was saying before he was cast as Mark. Nice find, Karen.

Well, Cosmo trashed RV. Gave it one star in the Sunday Times: Golly gosh! A No�l Coward country-house "comedy" of manners, in which the master pokes fun at the English class system. It's all about this ghastly American movie star called Miranda Frayle (Jeanne Tripplehorn) who is planning to marry Nigel, the Earl of Marshwood (Edward Atterton). When everyone at the Marshwood estate hears the news about the earl and his "jumped-up colonial floozy", they get into a frightful tizzy � despite all their talk about the barriers of class being irrelevant. But when the long-serving and ever-faithful maidservant, Moxie (Sophie Thompson), tells her mistress, the Dowager Countess of Marshwood (Julie Andrews), that Miranda is her long-lost sister, a comic conspiracy against the engaged couple starts to unfold. This trite piece of snooty, leftover whimsy has the clipped rat-tat-tat dialogue of vintage Coward, but not one really witty line or memorable character. With Stephen Fry as the Jeeves-like butler, and Colin Firth as the wise-cracking fop who simpers and smirks on the sidelines, it has a kind of formulaic fatuousness you find in "classy" Brit comedies. CL

Thank you Karen and everybody for the reviews of RV.Glad they're mentioning Colin in the comments. I will enjoy it too when we see it...TV or screen..makes not difference.Though for me it will probably be video.No chance of Noel Coward making it to mid-America. Never mind, if it doesn't get a theatrical release, we'll get it faster on video;-) Glad RV was better the second time around, Ann. (See, you should have given MLSF a second try:-) Sorry, I just had to get that one in ;-)

Well, I'm off to see RV today with my mother (she enjoyed MLSF!). I don't think it will appeal to my DH and/or sons. and even if my mother doesn't enjoy it, she won't complain! There'a a smashing pic of CF at the RV Premiere (or possibly reception)at http://www.noelcoward.net/home.html Must be in MD mode as he's hot from the set. Plus an account of the Premiere....Ann, you'll find this interesting, if you haven't already seen it. One thing that strikes me is that the Noel Coward webmaster, who must be a very keen and knowledgeable fan, gives RV an excellent review, whereas several of our newspaper reviewers complain about "lack of social relevance" (yawn!) and how this version of RV has ignored Coward's biting satire and just concentrated on the "fun" element. Call me dim, but I never thought NC was a biting saririst..I thought he wrote primarily to entertain.

Yes so did I. I have seen most of the plays by Noel Coward and am convinced they were written for entertainment value only. He certainly did not try to educate that wasn't his idea. Just to entertain. I am looking forward to this with some anticipation if it ever reaches Oz.

Thank goodness for the multiplex! Looking at my local paper and the list referred to by Karen, it appears that RV is showing in all the major venues around me so this time I'll get to see one of his films while it's actually on general release ;-D Unfortunately the cinema in my home town is of the 1.5 screen variety (the half being barely larger than my lounge at home) and so with "bigger" films out at the moment it's unlikely RV will show in the short term..if at all! Anyway am now in preparation mode for the screening, goosebumps at the ready -check, sticky tape (for repair purposes in case I ROLTLMAO) - check, photographic memory to aid report back to Spring - check.

WOW!!! Thanks, Bethan, for finding this. Does he ever look fabulous! And nothing to criticize from the "collar contingent" ;-) Of course, Mark Darcy would dress impeccably (except when wearing Christmas presents).

(Karen, quoting)With a non-romantic role in Noel Coward's Relative Values, followed by Bridget Jones' Diary, Colin Firth is playing against his "dashing" screen persona Wot? Not dashing as Mark Darcy? Is he gonna keep the dreadful sweater all through the movie then? ;-) with the modern stuff you really get caught up in some tricky decisions - what kind of trainers would he wear, etc. Trainers? Please let him *not* make the decisions here!;-) No, thankfully they've dispensed with all references to me in the film. Oh no! :-( Does that mean you had to go into Colin mode? Well I did a bit. I tried to be a bit more serious, and less patient. :-) We all know how patient he really is, and are grateful for it... by that time I'll be old enough to do the Enoch Powell story or something. Is this the notorious Fear of Forty?;-) Karen, as a non-UKer, thanks for explaining about Enoch Powell. And Bethan, for the noelcoward.net link.

Check out the short trailer at the BBC site. It seems to be of better quality and especially check out Colin's little dipsy move in shaking hands with Billy Baldwin. *running screaming from the room* http://www.bbc.co.uk/movies/whatson/relative_values.shtml

Thanks, Bethan and Karen. Lovely,MD! And he is finally wearing a white shirt! (Gi), Trainers? Please let him *not* make the decisions here!;-) LOL! We know him too well. ;-)

And nothing to criticize from the "collar contingent" ;-) I approve. At least it's not black ..and a tie! Must have been in honor of Noel Coward. (karen)...Colin's little dipsy move in shaking hands with Billy Baldwin. *running screaming from the room* LMAO. Oh Karen, I'm running right behind you. For sure we won't have to set up a topic "Peter Drool" He could not have picked a role further from Mr. Darcy:-( However, he could be the next pin-up boy for a gay magazine....now there's a target audience we hadn't thought of....

Haven't we? But he has been acknowledged as a (minor?) gay icon for long enough. I'm sure it has been mentioned here before. Meanwhile I have the UK Sunday Express before me. Two pieces with Colin... A not so good review of RV (though in a "Best of the rest" column) and an intrusive gossipy piece (that will make the tongues wag again! ;-D) with a new pose from an old series of ODB and Wife resplendent in evening garb. She's in a red dress (with black pattern, so it's not Baftas, but very similar). Small and bad quality, might not scan well. Anyone going to copy them here or must I...? (My scanner is dodgy.) ;-)

(Arami)But he has been acknowledged as a (minor?) gay icon for long enough. I'm sure it has been mentioned here before. I never heard that before...I was only joking... (Arami)....an intrusive gossipy piece (that will make the tongues wag again! ;- Don't leave us hanging, Arami. Pray tell what is the gossipy piece .

I never heard that before... You don't know/don't remember the "kiss of the burly stagehand" episode??? Seems I'll have to type the story etc. next. Patience...

Sunday Express (UK), June 25, 2000 "Soundtrack" By Henry Fitzherbert and James O'Brien [a showbiz gossip page] Birth of a new Firth? Colin Firth's gorgeous Italian wife Livia Guiggioli [*] told us of her yearning for a baby at the premiere of Relative Values, the Noel Coward adaptation in which Firth, as an exceedingly camp aristocrat, looks incapable of fathering anything. "I'm desperately trying to become pregnant," explained documentary-maker Livia, who married Firth three years ago after meeting on the set of the BBC's Nostromo, where she was a production assistant [**]. "I'd love nothing better than to have a baby with Colin and he'd love that, too. He's a natural with kids. It would also be a diversion for him from work." Firth, meanwhile, who has a son from his marriage [***] to actress Meg Tilly, was struck by deja vu at the party in London's National Portrait Gallery. Referring to his role in the Bridget Jones movie, he said: "I've spent the past three days doing exactly that - standing around in an art gallery, sipping fake wine and talking platitudes." [end] =================================================== [*] sic! [**] sic!! [***] sic!!! (my comments - A., always trying to do my f...ing research.)

Thanks, Arami! Colin in that tux with the skinny bowtie we have seen before, the hair gives it away too. Karen thought it was taken at Cannes last year. Do you still think so Karen? "I'm desperately trying to become pregnant," Why would she say this to a gossip reporter? This is very private and Italians are very superstitious, it doesn't sound right. It would also be a diversion for him from work." Wot? Sick of his guitar playing already? ;-)

Must have been something they slipped in her drink...;-) It all sounds very suspiciously un-Firthy to me. Quite likely one of those things which get passed round the social circles with bits added or distorted, and are best politely ignored - though perhaps not wholly dismissed... And why should she talk about "desperately trying to become pregnant" to a couple of young male upstarts at a publicity bash? Unless she's rather more cosmopolitan than Italian and not so superstitious... and perhaps she knows them well from somewhere else. But even so, it still doesn't sound right somehow... "Desperately trying..." hm... Doesn't that suggest images of a certain nature, too...? ;-D

Why do I find it hard to believe that Livia discussed this with two tabloid reporters??? BTW, that IS the same tux as in Cannes, but Livia's dress I recall being different. Will have to check the tape again. But his hair is the same. ;-)

Thanks for the pic, Arami.She looks gorgeous. IMO the reporters' comments are sick. Trash.I'd be ashamed to attach my name to that copy. ~~~~~~~~~ You don't know/don't remember the "kiss of the burly stagehand" episode??? Missed it somehow....(you can put it up on Springfolk if you think it's more apropos there)

I join the chorus, and say it doesn't ring true. Heavens, what kind of paper is that?! This is just a taste of what happens if somebody gets into that tabloid/paparazzi hell. To all webmistresses: please, don't put this "news" up, or it will confirm this breed of ********* [expletive for journalists] that this is the kind of articles we want to read. Hope I don't sound too theatrical

As Ann said, I really enjoyed RV. The film is light and airy and a bit of nonsense but moved long quickly enough. I loved the way Colin portrayed his character. He was very mischievious and stirred up the other characters whenever the opportunity arose. As we have all witnessed before, his facial expressions reveal a lot and his gestures are great. I found his campness hilarious and not over the top. As the man himself said, he wanted that part and it looked like he had a terrific time. The other 50 or so people in the cinema laughed along with him. He was dressed very smartly throughout the film with only one casual outfit which would have looked better had he not been sporting a polka-dot kerchief. He was smoking in a few scenes. Lots of smiles but I can only recall one hint of a toothy one. ST was excellent as was SF. The sound in the cinema was very loud and there are noisy scenes as well, so we couldn't actually hear all the one liners. I shall go and watch it again at my local cinema.

I saw part of a Colin Firth / Rupert Everett movie last night, they must have in their 20s when this was made and they were boys at a well to do private school. Does anyone know the movie I'm referring to?

Another Country?

I have the picture Bethan found and the article on the gala by the FOF (with her kind permission) here: http://www.geocities.com/firthfan/values/rvreviews.html That gossip thing is so poorly done, and full of inaccuracies. I too wonder if Livia really said all that to those reporters. Maybe they overheard her speaking to someone else.

Colin Firth did say in a recent interview (in response to a question of he and Livia having children ) "It'll happnen" Unless that was a fabrication as well. I do wonder at the report of seeing CF and Livia at the premiere when I have heard that he was nowhere to be seen.(Just mentioned by JA)

Sorry , I missed the page at An Appreciation...Very nice to be able to read this. I really doubt that she would have mentioned it at all.( Livia re trying to have a baby) The topic and the comments credited to her sound like the sound very much like some of the sleazier gossip 'publications' here in the USA. It may be that they picked up on the 'It'll happen .' comment that was in one of the recent publications from the UK. Cannot remember offhand which one.

(Arami)It all sounds very suspiciously un-Firthy to me. Same here. That thing about "standing around in an art gallery, sipping fake wine and talking platitudes" is too rude, don't you think?

Colin Firth did say in a recent interview (in response to a question of he and Livia having children ) "It'll happnen" Yes - that comment made me think that they may have been experiencing some delays/difficulties in that area, but why would they talk about it publicly? Except, of course, we don't really know how talkative Livia really is... That thing about "standing around in an art gallery, sipping fake wine and talking platitudes" is too rude, don't you think? Ummm... it's a kind of thing Colin would say and not realize it may be taken as rude. He sometimes talks incoherently... E.g. the short interview snippets on Relative Values website... sorry, but they made me cringe... :-( (But I'm still mad about the boy, nevertheless...) Talking about RV - I must confess that I've just seen it...I've seen it... But please, don't ask any questions yet - I'm still thinking... :-( No, it's not Colin, he's all right - as gay men go... - but the film generally seems rather weak. It's basically a jolly little romp made for Julie. Not the best of Coward's plays, imo, and the director wasn't clever enough to improve it. A great pity.

"standing around in an art gallery, sipping fake wine and talking platitudes" I assumed that he was talking about filming a scene, not real life. But since I haven't seen/read RV or BJD, I may have assumed wrong :-)

(Murph) Maybe they overheard her speaking to someone else. My thoughts exactly. (Arami) Ummm... it's a kind of thing Colin would say and not realize it may be taken as rude. Agreed. Flippant and wry . . .and sort of funny actually.:-) So, Arami, I take it that RV is *not an artistic achievement,* IYHO?;-) Love the premiere pic, Bethan--good find.

(Murph) Maybe they overheard her speaking to someone else. Perhaps talking to a heavily pregnant Sophie Thompson?

First of all, I saw RV at the weekend, in a modern 20 screen mulltiplex, about 60 to 70 in the audience (small theatre, almost full). I was actually quite laid back about it all, thinking "Hey, it's just a movie, and there are going to be others coming along" instead of "when is he going to give that Oscar winning performance in a lead role." I also reminded myself that he is an actor who obviously wants/needs to do different things, even though I do prefer him in the serious, restrained dramatic roles! So, in this very positive frame of mind, I saw...and enjoyed it. It's good gentle fun, in a rather old-fashioned sort of way (nothing wrong with that). It moves along at a good pace, and the cast, especially ST, SF and CF, are obviously enjoying themselves. I thought the audience liked it...people stayed on throughout the credits! CF wasn't overly camp...more facetious..and certainly wasn't John Inman-ish. The screenplay isn't the same as the original, obviously, but quite a lot of the dialogue is preserved intact. Would definitely have no appeal to anyone who likes the Adam Sadler (?). Jim Carrey, more outrageous Ben Elton stuff, which a lot of reviewers admire. (Murph) Maybe they overheard her speaking to someone else. Perhaps talking to a heavily pregnant Sophie Thompson? (Allison) This was a rather nasty tabloid piece. The juxtaposition of the comments about CF playing a character who looked "incapable of fathering anything", the fact that that they've been married 3 years, and that L "desperately" wants a baby is, I'm sure, deliberate. CF's comment on just having filmed something similar sounds genuine to me and may be correct reporting. As to Livia's "alleged" remarks, I think Allison's observation may be correct..perhaps the reporters are embellishing on an overheard private comment. It could also be expected that C & L may now be trying for a family, and our intrusive press are going to pick up on this...if they can't report that a couple are splitting up, they have to find some other marital issue to write about. And the tabloids have the power to damage people and cause pain.

(Mari) I take it that RV is *not an artistic achievement,* IYHO?;-) It depends. Compared with SLOW, it is certainly much more artistic - but on the other hand, SLOW is much more cinematic, if you see what I mean. As a frustrated (I prefer this description to "failed"...;-)) filmmaker myself, I prefer my films more filmic, so to speak. (Bethan) It's good gentle fun, in a rather old-fashioned sort of way (nothing wrong with that). It moves along at a good pace, and the cast, especially ST, SF and CF, are obviously enjoying themselves. Yes, my impressions were very similar. But I thought it was too static and confined - more like a filmed theatrical performance - and lacked cinematic vision. The directing was routine and uninspired, the camera work was rather indifferent, the lighting was amateurish in places (e.g. in one scene Colin's face kept disappearing in the shadow of Wm. Baldwin's head!). Admittedly, there were some brilliant and funny touches (e.g. a repeated sight of a lone figure dragged across the screen by dogs on an early morning walk - a classic!), but much too few and far between. I appreciate they had financial problems (again!) but I still think it could have been a much better film.

Review for RV at Variety.com, says Colin was miscast and looked uncomfortable.

IMHO he wasn't and didn't! I've read the same about him in MLSF and SLOW. I think he's typecast, not miscast. People expect to see him in a certain kind of role (the reserved, brooding, very serious type). If he does something different (grins, fools around) he's "miscast". But I can half see where they're coming from (to quote a phrase). The first time I saw him singing "Yes we have no bananas" in TEP I had to look away because I was embarrassed for him. It took time for me to get used to this scene!

(Arami), But I thought it was too static and confined - more like a filmed theatrical performance - and lacked cinematic vision. That is a basic problem when you turn a play into a film. Can you think of any play that turned really filmic when filmed? The directing was routine and uninspired, the camera work was rather indifferent, the lighting was amateurish in places (e.g. in one scene Colin's face kept disappearing in the shadow of Wm. Baldwin's head!). I thought I was the only one who picked up on these things. ;-) That thing about "standing around in an art gallery, sipping fake wine and talking platitudes" is too rude, don't you think? Ummm... it's a kind of thing Colin would say and not realize it may be taken as rude. Agreed! But I do not think he talked platitudes with Salman Rushdie. ;-)

Here's the link to the Variety review: http://www.variety.com/body.asp?HbkId=13094960&CatId=REV&ReviewID=1117787469 (review) By trying to create a full-scale comedy of confusion, they're hampered at every turn by the fact that Coward's play is almost plotless, relying on the felicities of its dialogue, rather than physical farce, for effect. Plotless? While motivated by class issues, it's not much different than "Lady for a Day," which was remade into "Pocketful of Miracles." (Moon) Can you think of any play that turned really filmic when filmed? Aside from musicals? ;-) Actually, lots. Think of all the great playwrights from Tennessee Williams to Arthur Miller, etc. Their plays have all been adapted with great success.

Here's The Observer's review. Not much better than most, but at least he blames it on the director.;-) Relative Values Peter Preston Sunday June 25, 2000 I say, old man... wizard idea. Why not film No�l Coward's Relative Values 46 years late in the Isle of Man, so we get all our tax breaks and stuff? Then we could afford a couple of lesser Hollywood luminaries (say, Jeanne Tripplehorn and the stunningly non-charismatic William Baldwin) to pretend to be the brightest lights of their day. And Stephen Fry to do his sub-Jeeves butler bit. And... and Julie Andrews as the Countess of Marshwood. Bound to be a smash, what? Well no, because this wizened saga of the British class system is too long ago and far away from any modern experience; because Coward's control of plot and characters is hopelessly diffused among the mugging and smirking; and because Eric Styles, on this showing, can't direct actors for toffee. Colin Firth is camply impaled as Peter, fount of sardonic witticisms. Sophie Thompson's Moxie, the upwardly mobile maid, twitters desperately. It's all jolly embarrassing, especially for an increasingly formidable Dame Julie, the only human reference point around. I kept hoping she'd burst into song.

Re. the Observer review....very sarcastic and oh, so "clever". I don't appreciate this kind of review. No wonder Brit movies just die. The earlier reviews were much better!!

Time for Colin to take a different tack? A bold stroke of some sort, though I'm not sure what it would be. BJD seems like a good move and will get lots of attention, but beyond that . . . The last really good reviews Colin has had were for 3DOR. MLSF, SLOW, and now RV are just not the type of thing that the critics and general public are going for these days. That's three strikes in a row. I'm not suggesting he pander to the lowest common denominator, but I think it's time to concentrate *strictly* on projects with more "edge," to employ an overused term. 3DOR had it in spades and that worked out wonderfully for him. DQ had it to an extent, but God knows why they're sitting on it. Just rambling here . . . any thoughts?

(Mari) Just rambling here . . . any thoughts? Mari, you're right about the "edge." I think he went againt "typecast" in his Wessex role too, and I thought he was marvelous. I'm still a bit stymied as to why that role didn't lead to some meatier parts. Ramble ramble :-) Time for a "heavy" role. I don't believe in the miscast thing for him, as I think he has the talent to pull off a variety of characters. Other actors don't have that range. But then, I liked his greasy Michael in Playmaker :-) I think he needs to search out the meaty roles, where he can be unattractive, unlikable. I'm with Evelyn (hee hee) and would love to see him gain a wider reputation on the stage. And if he can't get the roles he wants, then I suggest he leave England and go where he can get them. Hey, it worked for Clint Eastwood :-)

(Moon) Can you think of any play that turned really filmic when filmed? (Karen),Aside from musicals? ;-) Ca va sans dire. Actually, lots. Think of all the great playwrights from Tennessee Williams to Arthur Miller, etc. Their plays have all been adapted with great success. You left out IMO, Karen. ;-) My opinion tends to the opposite view. One thing is for a play to be adapted to film and become a success another thing is for a play to become really filmic once it becomes a film.

Sorry about the double post. Italics have been closed.

The Guardian gives RV 2 stars, which may not sound great, but they're very picky and don't even bother to rate a lot of films. "Gladiator" and "Sweet and Lowdown" get 3stars, "Next best thing" 1 star. The only 4 stars is "Boys don't Cry." Running the gauntlet of our reviewers is not a pleasant experience! I think most of them are more interested in how they write (the bon mot, the devastating critique) than what they write! Interesting article in the Guardian about how the UK rates only 30th in terms of importance for movie distribution...a "backwater" where there's not much interest in going to the movies and non-mainstream films don't stand a chance. True! (And our critics don't help!) Success in the US is all-important (half the world's market) for film-makers and actors! As to what CF should do next...that's a really difficult one (and might get us back to that TV versus Movie debate!)

(Mari) MLSF, SLOW, and now RV are just not the type of thing that the critics and general public are going for these days. Sorry, but I think we're missing the point here...:-) IMO, if these films had been made REALLY WELL, then everyone would have gone for them, too. It's the quality of the finish that counts. It's not enough for a film to be oddly enigmatic, vaguely nostalgic or raising a mere titter when the screen next door shows movies full of roar, thrill, amazement and belly laughter. When is Londinium due to open? Maybe that one will be better...

(Bethan)The Guardian gives RV 2 stars, which may not sound great, but they're very picky and don't even bother to rate a lot of films. "Gladiator" and "Sweet and Lowdown" get 3stars,"Next best thing" 1 star. The only 4 stars is "Boys don't Cry." WHEN did we ever think that we'd be rejoicing that one of ODB's films got a 2 star instead of a 1!!!This is a distinguished British actor,fergodsake. Well...you know what I think...so I won't rant on... BUT..the point of my posting is... I don't hear of anyone asking for a Keepsake of RV *winkie,winkie*

(Moon) You left out IMO, Karen. ;-) Quite right, dear. Ca va sans dire. ;-) (Mari) MLSF, SLOW, and now RV are just not the type of thing that the critics and general public are going for these days. (Arami)IMO, if these films had been made REALLY WELL, then everyone would have gone for them, too. It's the quality of the finish that counts. While there is substantial evidence to support Mari's assertion these days, I really have to agree with Arami [did I type that??? ;-)] The final product is the most important thing. While Noel Coward may not be the In thing to bring to the screen now, if it had been done very well, then it might have been the first in a mad scramble to do more copycat productions. Somebody has to be first. Even if no one goes to a film, the critics remember a well-made film and the makers are upped in their esteem. (Evelyn) I don't hear of anyone asking for a Keepsake of RV *winkie,winkie* A ha!! I know this is against the rules, but I'll take the limp wrist. You know how us straight girls love a challenge. ;-)

(Arami) But I thought it was too static and confined - more like a filmed theatrical performance - and lacked cinematic vision. (Moon) That is a basic problem when you turn a play into a film. Can you think of any play that turned really filmic when filmed? (Karen) Aside from musicals? ;-) "Breaker Morant" has a wonderful sense of cinema. It was originally a play, and most definitely not a musical, even though Edward Woodward does sing a song in it. (Donna DL) I think he went againt "typecast" in his Wessex role too, and I thought he was marvelous. I'm still a bit stymied as to why that role didn't lead to some meatier parts. My quess is because he seems loathe to travel any great distance to work in films. Most of his recent work has been done someplace in the UK, with the exception of SLOW. That was filmed in the south of France, not all that far from England when you check the map. Since he seems determined not to go very far afield to work, television may well be the best metier for him at present time. Although, theater would seem preferable.

IMO, if these films had been made REALLY WELL, then everyone would have gone for them, too. (Arami) So what British movies are made REALLY WELL these days? I can't think of one, off-hand, recently. Or Hollywood movies (of the type that he would be considered for)? I think you're too hard on him! I don't see an abundance of great projects! And although I'm advocating some TV work (the prestige dramas) most TV drama is unwatchable. Theatre seems to provide good choices though.

And on 2 star ratings...the Guardian gave "The Winslow Boy" one star. I tell you, our critics aren't generous! I must be a bit uncritical, because I've liked MLSF, SLOW and RV.

Mari, in response to your comments: Time to give Harvey W., John Madden, Sam Mendes and Anthony M. a call to remind them that he is available for major roles in major films. He has so many contacts and knows the major players from working in big films over the last few years, he should pick up the phone - if he hasn't already. Once again, BAHHH to his agent! We have no idea what kind of work he is being offered. So far, outside of BJD, which is a kind of satire on himself, it ain't much. Though maybe this is exactly the way he wants it, always working, comfortable as far as money is concerned, ready to start a family. He has never burned with ambition.

He has never burned with ambition. That's it in a nutshell.. (Bethan) I must be a bit uncritical, because I've liked MLSF, SLOW and RV. I will too probably. You all have dragged me down to your mediocrity.I no longer have high standards for ODB...Like you...I will rave about any piece of crap he throws our way.Whether it tanks or not...Just don't let him mention wanting anything better in an interview....(which we can't believe anyway, cause it comes from the press ;-)

(Bethan) I think you're too hard on him! Not at all. No doubt all movies start as very ambitious projects. No one purposefully produces mediocrity. But I suppose real quality filmmakers are now priced well above the budget of an average British film.

(Arami) When is Londinium due to open? Maybe that one will be better... . . .than a poke in the eye?;-) RE Peter Keepsakes: Evelyn, I want his Campshirt, his yellow cravat, his Judy Garland record collection, and his autographed photo of Montgomery Clift.;-) Interesting comments from everyone. I agree with Murph; no burning ambition there. The problem, though, with being satisfied existing as just comfortable and safe and employed in the acting field is that it wreaks havoc with your reputation and prospects. Honestly, you don't think some of these reviews are humiliating for him? And hardly a springboard to better things, let alone treading water to keep place where he is! Certainly every actor has his/her share of failures, and I agree no one starts out to produce mediocity. But by confining himself largely to certain genres, coupled with his obvious reluctance to leave the vicinity for work, he is dramatically narrowing his sphere of possibilities. I still think he needs to shake things up; maybe something commercial like BJD will help. Bethan, I agree that there aren't a lot of great projects around--but those that are invariably go to the bigger names. Just thinking aloud here--would it be so terrible to take on even more commercial ventures? Something to get his name out there, raise his profile, and which could pave the way for consideration in the better roles. He has nothing to lose--can't be worse, or more embarrassing, for him than the string he's got going. I keep thinking of something John Cusack said recently: "I do one for 'them' then two for me." Also, he'd be able to pocket some good money which would enable him to afford to do theater more often.

It's a great pity, but he cannot possibly support his current lifestyle (i.e. seeing his son) on what he would make doing only theatre. Nobody can unless they have major "family" money. He would have to supplement it with television (and we've already had that conversation), radio, and the occasional crap film (e.g. "The Shadow" co-starring Ian McKellen) or bad film ("Up at the Villa" co-starring Derek Jacobi). He's clearly not inclined to go that way.

According to The Sun today, Colin's has lost" 2stone to play the romantic hereo in his new film BJD". Will get the Sun and post the whole article later.

2 stone! That's 28 pounds. Perhaps he's 28 pounds lighter than last year? What are we getting - a frail Mark Darcy? :-(

How much tome did he have between signing for the MD role and starting the film to lose 2 stone? It is a fact that men lose more weight than women on the same diet, but that is v. hard to believe. I hope The Sun gives out his diet secrets. ;-)

Am guess that no one will be commenting about his jowls in this one or whether the costume was padded. ;-)

Karen your news pics on the BJD page are really "cool". Is that really a pic of Snowhill? Who is the babe? (See, am already exclusively focusing on next film...v.v.g.)

Yes, that's Snowhill and I imagine that's just a local kid frolicking in the fake snow.

(Luvvy) He would have to supplement it with television (and we've already had that conversation), radio, and the occasional crap film (e.g. "The Shadow" co-starring Ian McKellen) or bad film ("Up at the Villa" co-starring Derek Jacobi). He's clearly not inclined to go that way. But he's already doing some bad films. Might as well do one that he'll be well-paid for. And not every commercial film is crap or bad; many I've seen recently compare favorably with much of the stuff on his CV. (Evelyn)(See, am already exclusively focusing on next film...v.v.g.) Er . . .that would be Londinium.:-( Oh, alright, I'll be good too: RV was the #11 film in the UK last weekend, bringing in about 88,000 pounds on 81 screens.

Have posted Sun article about Colin's weight loss at Bucket's Bridget page; has pictures. Not to worry.

Glad that we've moved on to the new topic of non-porky Colin! (Are those your pics or the Sun's, Karen?) Porky Colin looks cute to me, but he obviously has slimmed down a little (not 2 stone though). Has he been to the gym, cut out the beer and pasta, been jogging in California/Umbria? Can I just throw in another comment on CF's current output? I've trotted along to both MLSF and RV (with my mother in tow!), enjoyed them both (as I think did the other folk in the audience), and that's it. I'd definitely like to see them again on video. I don't feel there's anything to get upset about. And Chris has a point...we have a host of good actors, but opportunities for british actors to excel on film seem limited. Michael Gambon gave an interew recently...said he'd completed roles(some cameos) in 6 movies over the last year or two...one very good, two so-so, three "crap". Also, if actors paid attention to their reviews, especially film reviews, they'd never have the confidence to act again. Ken Branagh, for example, has had some horrendous reviews. And I noticed a review in today's Guardian for Helen Mirren in the new production at the Donmar. Very good review, all praise for HM, but only 3 stars, not even Recommended (4 stars) and certainly not 5 stars, Muted enthusiasm, as ever! I'm fairly sure that DQ will surface over Christmas on the BBC. The new DG of the BBC was on the receiving end of a recent phone in on Radio 4...some quite hostile questions and criticism of the abysmal drama output. He blamed lack of cash. DQ was relatively cheap to make (just over �1million)...I'm sure they'll use it to shore up the Xmas schedules. BJD is getting a terrific about of pre-release publicity (as did "Notting Hill"...we were reading about it from day 1)which is a good sign! And this is one movie that will make an impact in the US...I appreciate that most (all) of CF's recent work seems limited to the rather unenthusiatic UK market. The paperback of The Edge of Reason has shot to the top of the book charts in the UK, selling nearly 50,000 copies last week. Good free publicity for CF's bald patch!

Bethan, you know I was MLSF's biggest booster; I think at this point in his career, he does need to take into consideration what the public wants to see. I have, however, come to realize just how severe your critics can be; one star for Winslow Boy? Shocking. Ok, enough beating that horse.;-) (Bethan)Good free publicity for CF's bald patch! You mean the part that's been loved off?:-) Agree, the BJD publicity people are really doing their job. Even over here, where the books have been bestsellers, but not the type of phenomena they were in the UK, you'd have to be living in a cave not to have heard of this project. There's another piece in this week's People mag (more of the RZ weight thing, but hey, it's news for people who aren't following this as closely as we). More . . . but will take it over to 131.

(Bethan)Can I just throw in another comment on CF's current output? I've trotted along to both MLSFand RV (with my mother in tow!), enjoyed them both (as I think did the other folk in the audience), and that's it. I'd definitely like to see them again on video. I don't feel there's anything to get upset about. Bethan...I am not upset. Moreover, you have not convinced me either that his "current output" is worthy of his talent.Period. ~~~~~~~ (Bethan)Michael Gambon gave an interview recently...said he'd completed roles(some cameos) in 6 movies over the last year or two...one very good, two so-so, three "crap". Somehow I had something better in mind for Colin besides taking after Michael Gambon...(talk about porky...) ~~~~~~~~ As I said, I am focusing on his new films....unless anyone wants to bring this topic up again....

(Arami) You don't know/don't remember the "kiss of the burly stagehand" episode??? ( Evelyn) Missed it somehow.... Sunday Independent Date: 97-01-19 A MAN OF MANY PARTS by Jasper Rees: "Though he's been a pin-up to both genders (William Boyd, whose 'Dutch Girls' gave Firth his first television lead, once told me how a burly crew member suppressed his feelings till the end of the shoot and then planted a huge kiss on the vulnerable hero's lips), it was Darcy that made Firth sexy." (Mari) MLSF, SLOW, and now RV are just not the type of thing that the critics and general public are going for these days. That's three strikes in a row. .... (Mari) RV was the #11 film in the UK last weekend, bringing in about 88,000 pounds on 81 screens. Does that make RV a strike, a foul ball, or a base hit??? ;-) (Evelyn) Moreover, you have not convinced me either that his "current output" is worthy of his talent. Period. Depending on one's taste [and IMHO], the script hasn't been written yet that is worthy of his talent. Period. And I doubt it ever will... Even P&P had its flaws ... (Mari) But he's already doing some bad films. (Evelyn) Somehow I had something better in mind for Colin ... As I'm sure each of us does ... and for each of us it's probably something entirely different ... until then I will have to settle for ODB within what he has done, and like Bethan I find there is something to enjoy in most everything. Still, there just ain't no pleasin' some folks ... **Heehee** ;-) KJ

HEY, CAN'T YOU ALL JUST STOP MOANING AND ENJOY THE MAN? :-) Here's a RV review from www.virgin.net site. The last paragraph sums it all very neatly. http://www.virgin.net/cinema/whatson/index.html Relative Values (PG) Starring: Julie Andrews , Stephen Fry Director: Eric Styles Full cast list: IMDB Made: 2000 After a routine throat operation caused almost irreparable damage to her vocal chords, Julie Andrews returns to the big screen in an old-fashioned farce, based on the No�l Coward play of the same name. Directed by Eric Styles (Dreaming of Joseph Lees), Relative Values was filmed on the Isle of Man with a sturdy British cast (Colin Firth, Sophie Thompson, Stephen Fry) playing second fiddle to a pair of brash American interlopers (Jeanne Tripplehorn, William Baldwin). The narrative follows similar lines, with the unflappable Countess of Marshwood (Andrews) utilising all her feminine wiles to stop her son (Edward Atterton) from marrying glamorous Hollywood starlet Miranda Frayle (Tripplehorn). It transpires that Miranda and Moxie (Thompson), the Countess'devoted personal maid, are sisters. And things don't get any less complicated when Miranda's hell-raising boyfriend (Baldwin) turns up out of the blue with an engagement ring in one hand and a bottle of Jack Daniels in the other. Styles can't make Coward's creaky characters breathe on film, but Firth and Fry play their supporting roles with �lan, while Julie never puts a foot wrong. by Neil Smith

What a virtuous crowd... bring on the halos,*hee*,*hee*

(KJ) Does that make RV a strike, a foul ball, or a base hit??? ;-) I'd call it a bunt.;-) Ahem, I didn't post those numbers because I thought they were anything to write home about. That's about $1,700 U.S. per screen, which would be considered very low here for an opening weekend when interest and media attention is presumably the highest.

Ah, but it isn't opening here. :-) Although I certainly do hope it will, eventually. How many movies are on release in the UK at any given time? (Arami) The last paragraph sums it all very neatly. So it does, so it does ...

Forget the crowd - it's that yet another slap on the wrist for Styles - and a pat on Colin's back - which matters. Want some more? From Sunday Express, 25 June 2000 Best Of The Rest Relative Values ** [two stars - dodgy] One of the oddest casts is assembled for this adaptation of Noel Coward's comedy of manners exploring the contrast between brash, classless America and the English aristocracy. Who could imagine the graceful julie Andrews sharing a screen with William Baldwin, that lightweight B-movie actor people hire when they a) can't afford a decent Hollywood star, and b) can't afford any of the other Baldwins. [...] So far so eccentric, but some of the casting is inappropriate. Colin Firth, totem of brooding manhood, is the Countess's camp, effete nephew, eyes bulging from sockets whenever a well-scrubbed young buck hoves into view. [...] With so many characters the main problem is inevitable - who is the movie about? [...] The other problem is the dated look and feel of the film [...] And rather than reach an energetic climax, the story peters out unsatisfactorily. The project required more imagination. (** Dodgy. Review by Henry Fitzherbert) ---------------------------- The Sun. June 21, 2000 Sun Woman Lorraine Kelly - Real Views From A Real Woman * Who could forget the sight of Colin Firth as Mr Darcy in P&P, striding out of that lake with his hair all tangled and his wet breeches clinging to his thighs. Phew! Well, that image has all but disappeared from my mind after seeing Colin as an extremely camp young fop in the new julie Andrews movie Relative Values. Colin plays Julie's nephew and is camper than Rupert Everett in My Best Friend's Wedding. But he's still the best thing in the film. ================================================ I don't see why Colin is "inappropriately cast", but I can understand that some people may have problems accepting it. In both the above pieces the last sentences say it all. AND NOW... TA-RAAAAAAAA! How does he do it - the secret is out! Colin is actively fighting the flab! From Daily Express, June 13, 2000 Section: Life [...] In the first of our exclusive three-part series, fitness trainer CORNEL CHIN - whose clients include Colin Firth and Leonardo Di Caprio - and BBC nutritionist Fiona Hunter show you how to shape up for a holiday to remember. [A piece about diet follows. Overleaf:] Work out for the perfect holiday body - CORNEL CHIN, personal trainer responsible for Leonardo Di Caprio's fabulous figure in the film The Beach, and currently training Colin Firth, shows you how to get in shape for the sun [followed by advice on exercises]

(Mari) That's about $1,700 U.S. per screen, which would be considered very low here for an opening weekend Time to do the analysis... Actually, RV did very well and just missed getting into the Top 10 by $12,000. It did better on a per screen basis than Nos. 7-10, one of which (the ridiculously renamed Reindeer Games or Deception) was an opener that weekend as well, but all played on many more screens (il.e., more than 129). RV's per screen average was on a par with that megahit Maybe Baby (now in it's 5th week) and The Next Best Thing (it ain't). ;-) Why so many people went to see that Madonna/Rupert Everett thing (or nearly any of those other loser flicks in the Top 10) is beyond me! So many of those are substandard crap (new category) and were severely trounced in the B.O. here.

A personal trainer now... ooo la la! He's getting lean and mean and real fighting machine.

A personal trainer, how gauche. He has gone Hollywood, make of that what you will.

A personal trainer, how gauche. He has gone Hollywood, make of that what you will.

Gauche? Gosh... Honestly, chaps, whatever that guy does, he can never win with you any more. Well, I'm sorry, but his purpose in life is not necessarily to please everyone at all times. I am determined to like him, come what may. Meanwhile, perhaps we should open a moans topic? Sling a bit of mud on Colin board? ;-P

Omigod. You mean we're going to get pecs? What does this all mean? A revival of the Superman series? How about a remake of Streetcar Named Desire? Fearing the over 40 flab? It's been awhile since I've seen a smidgen of extra flesh on the man. Interesting that he wants to stay in fighting trim.

I'm in agreement, Arami. He pleases me no matter what and it appears to me he does things which please him. If it's true he has a trainer, the better for him and the better for us. He's not ready yet to content himself with being a character actor.

That trainer is just a fitness coach and obviously Colin finds it easier to follow a set regime in order to lose excess weight. I don't think for one moment he's going to acquire pecs.

I don't think for one moment he's going to acquire pecs. From an article on how this guy worked with Leonardo for The Beach:Well, it may be fantasy for most of us but one supremely fortunate Bromley resident had the job of actually pushing and prodding Leonardo DiCaprio into shape. One of Cornel's clients was Andrew Macdonald, part of the trio of film makers responsible for cult hits Trainspotting, Shallow Grave and A Life Less Ordinary. Andrew told Cornel he was making a film version of Alex Garland's book, The Beach, and he was hoping to get Leonardo DiCaprio to play the lead role. ...Just before Christmas last year, Cornel had a call "It was Andrew" he said. "He told me the cast had been out in Thailand, and now they needed a personal trainer to shape them up...to give them a lean and sinewy look especially for the film." "I told him I'd love to. And so on January 4 this year, I flew out there." Cornel had just 16 days to whip the cast into shape. But Leo always looks so toned anyway, surely he wasn't far from the right look? "Leo was in pretty good shape, he plays a lot of sport. But to get the lean look the role required, we had to do a lot of aerobic exercise with him, and weight resistance exercise" Said Cornel.******** I don't know about you, ladies, but I'm hoping there's a towel scene. ;-)

but I'm hoping there's a towel scene. ;-) You nailed it...that's the one. Arami, we're not slinging mud at ODB...we just wish better roles for him...there is a slight diff;-)

Mari says:and his autographed photo of Montgomery Clift.;-) ********* Peter has one too? I bet mine is older. http://www.geocities.com/firthfan/movies.html#clift We are all so frustrated with the poor man. I agree that he must be suffering through some of these RV reviews. He is quite proud after all, plus being extra intelligent, tall, with two wonderful dimples and a great suprasternal notch!! Who needs pecs?

Perhaps this will count for something: James Christopher picks his favourite five from the current crop of films on release 1. Relative Values Eric Styles revamps Coward's 1951 country house charmer to accommodate its vintage star Julie Andrews as a prim Countess who must extract her son from a ghastly Hollywood marriage. With Stephen Fry, Colin Firth, and Sophie Thompson. 2. Gladiator 3. Gangster No. 1 4. Sweet and Lowdown 5. Not One Less ******** Maybe Colin's going after the Peter Lawford role in Ocean's 11 ;-)

(Murph)He has never burned with ambition. (Evelyn)That's it in a nutshell.. More likely, his ambition has been curbed as years have gone by... (Evelyn)You all have dragged me down to your mediocrity I'd resent that if I took you seriously ;-) (Mari)one star for Winslow Boy? Shocking I thought it was a reasonably good film that lacked something. (Arami) Gauche? Gosh... Honestly, chaps, whatever that guy does, he can never win with you any more. So it seems...

(Arami) Gauche? Gosh... Honestly, chaps, whatever that guy does, he can never win with you any more. I don't know why anybody is assuming this was at his initiative. Often, it is required for a part (as in the above snippet for The Beach). The personal trainer may have been engaged by the studio for all we know.

(Karen) Maybe Colin's going after the Peter Lawford role in Ocean's 11 ;-) I read the other day that Scorsese wants Hugh Grant for the role. No kidding. Murph, I forgot that you really do have a Monty Clift autograph! Nice; Peter would approve;-) (I *still* want his Campshirt.)

*scowl*

Hmmm . . . maybe I've mixed O-11 up with the Rat Pack film. I think that's the one Marty's doing whenever he can assemble what he calls his dream cast. Oh, just hand the reins over to Mike Binder and he can cast Christopher Lawford.;-) Arami, I like your idea of a "moaning board"--especially given all this delicious info on sprouting pecs!:-)

(Mari)Arami, I like your idea of a "moaning board"--especially given all this delicious info on sprouting pecs!:-) Especially since everybody's grown so serious about ODB :-( Where's good-natured Drool gone to? No more drowning in chocolate-brown puddles - no, it is all career strategies nowadays! IMO, the man ought to consult a feng-shui specialist and correct something missing in the Career, Fame and Prosperity areas of his home(s) :-)

(Mari)Arami, I like your idea of a "moaning board"--especially given all this delicious info on sprouting pecs!:-) Mari, I think I like your idea of moaning... ;-)