(Karen), Moon, your prayers have been answered. Let's get this rolling... ;-) My prayers will be answered when Colin agrees to do this, not Stephen. We can not just ask him questions about Colin. I do not think Empire will use them. We could suggest to Empire to do the same with Colin--at the insistance of sooo many who basically ignored SF and wanted to know all about CF. ;-) Don't you think? :-D

I was in such a rush yesterday to give you news of the MLSF premier that I did not have time to fill in all the details (or read them). In the small print at the bottom of the ad it says "The winners will be the first 50 enries drawn at random after the competition closes at 2.30pm today, Friday 28th April". That is ridiculous! The Evening Standard is only available in most shops from 1pm, though it can be bought at central London tube stations before that. But Who would have got round to reading the back pages and have put in their call by 2.30pm. Typical. Tracey, I think you should phone them on Tuesday when they open again and complain and demand a ticket! I think I might send them an e-mail of complaint. About that wet shirt....it says: "Colin Firth, Mary Elizabeth Mastroantonio, Malcom McDowell and David Puttnam amongst others will be attending this charity premier in aid of RADA.

Have just got back from seeing "Sunshine" at The Curzon Mayfair, and there was a preview of MLSF, (he looks so cute in that knitted swimsuit!), which opens there on the 12th May. Incidentally so far the reviews have not been good for the film or Colin, Film Review gave it 2 stars out of 5 and said of Colin "Firth has made a career ot of playing somewhat stoical, reserved young men, but the role of Edward stretches him beyond his limits" what rot! Empire gave it 2 stars out of 5 and spoke of "Firth being stilted" or something like that. However, I will be going back to the Curzon in two weeks time whatever the critics say.

I don't think somehow that the reviews for MLSF or CF are going to be good...I saw one in Total Film (2 stars) which said that the movie had been on the shelf for three years (not true,) that the young actors were unattractive (cruel), described it as a "weary wallow in nostalgia" and then picked on CF for special criticism. I just thought "oh, stuff you" (or something ruder!) I've no intention of paying any attention to the reviews. As I've commented before, British film "reviewers" seem to relish savaging British films and actors...which is probably why we barely have a film industry!

Ann, did you say that MLSF showing at the Curzon in two weeks? I'm confused....why did they tell me it wasn't showing there?!! Talk about being on the receiving end of wrong information! BTW I can think of quite a long list of roles in which CF isn't a "stoical, reserved young man"!!

Bethan, yes it opens there on the 12th May, there is a lovely poster outside the cinema, MLSF, "Coming Soon". A good area for Colin Firth & RF fans I would think, from what I saw today. (Ladies in Volvo's!)

Oh you poor things! I think MLSF was better received here by most critics than yours. They are a pathetic lot. How are the reviews for The Last September, another similar film which just opened this past Friday? Anyone to crucify in that one? Having read a review of Hugh Hudson's "I Dreamed of Africa," there appear to be many of the same criticisms ("meandering pointlessly although beautifully shot"). in aid of RADA. That is who you call for tickets!!

Ann it is quite miserable what British reviewers do to films made there. It is beginning to look like filmmakers are afraid of showing any films there that are not in the 18-25 male venue. I am sure I would be. I will if the Telegraph, Guardian or Times trash it write to the reviewers and suggest they are lacking in finesse and education! Here in Australia it was well received as it was mostly by American reviewers who I sense do not pander to the young male element. Perhaps one day they will realise what they have done when they grow up!

These initial reviews are all in the monthly movie magazines which, to be honest, I wouldn't normally look at even if you gave me a copy. The reviews in the quality press may be more perceptive, but a lot depends on the individual reviewer. I like reading reviews (goodness knows why!) but a couple of years ago there seemed to be a major shakeout, and the Telegraph, Guardian and Times all replaced their "older" reviewers. There's been a marked sea change since then, and I find, almost invariably, that the films I think I'll like always get trashed. The Daily Mail (Chris Tookey!) is okay. The worst is Ann Bilson in the Sunday Telegraph. "Mrs Dalloway" with Vanessa Redgrave is a case in point...got poor reviews, no-one went to see it, but it was shown recently on TV and I thought it was beautiful...and so did quite a few of my colleaues at work. I think that in the UK, television is the better medium for more thoughtful, slower paced drama...audiences do tune in, and TV critics are much more supportive (and ver 25!)

Typical. Tracey, I think you should phone them on Tuesday when they open again and complain and demand a ticket! It's definately worth a try! 12th May is not so long to wait though - I think I can just about bear it! *teeth gritted* I would agree with all of the above comments re the reviewing tactics in our movie mags - I sometimes wonder whether they've actually seen some of the films they're pulling to bits. It seems as if only a certain type of British film ever gets the thumbs up - anything with a 'Ewan' in, and/or one which portrays 'real people' in the inner cities beating the s*** out of each other. Not typical Colin fare! Like Bethan, I'm waiting hopefully for sensible comments from the quality press to redress the balance. But IMHO the only opinions that count are those of my dear co-droolers who can always be relied upon to speak their minds - in a totally unbiased way of course ;-))

Of course we are discerning, sane people! But honestly the reviewers in the U.K. do not seem able to see good acting if it's put in front of them and pointed out. It is so in the junior pages in the main newspapers here in Oz! The good reviewers liked MLSF and perhaps the only way is to point out to these juniors they have appointed that they have no discernment and are incapable of observing a good film when they see one, I too loved Mrs. Dalloway and thus should rely totally on us in regard to anyting to do with C.F. I have seen MLSF thought it was brilliant, his acting supurb but my D.H. did not see what I could see, the eyes, the lips, the expressions! But as for D.Q. he thought it was one of the best films he had seen in a long time. Interesting eh.

My sister saw MLSF on video, said she didn't like it much (her husband did) and that "CF again plays a loser"... For what it's worth...

I agree that the newspaper reviews for MLSF will likely be much better and much more perceptive. I have to wonder if these film mag reviewers, no doubt geared to the youth market, have even seen the film, based on their comments. Edward is *not* a stoical reserved young man, the child actors are *not* unattractive, and the film is *not* a weary wallow in nostalgia--quite the contrary. Edward is a real paradox, an outgoing child-man who leaps before he looks, caught between his impulses and his adult responsibilities; there is real growth in his character by the end of the film, and CF gets it just right. I can't say enough for Robert Norman, who is absolutely convincing as Fraser--he has real talent. And to think that the film is just misty nostalgia really misses the point--there is a real poignancy and bite here as the characters, unbenownst to them, are coming to the end of an era; the incidents shown in the film are all illustrative of the larger encroachment of the outside world during this time period. Can you tell I love this film?;-) I'm very happy to hear they're having a premiere and are doing something to promote it.

Of course the young reviewers do not like nostalgia in the UK. They want to get rid of the monarchy! MLSF deserves good reviews because it is a good film. The acting is also top notch. (Tracy), It seems as if only a certain type of British film ever gets the thumbs up - anything with a 'Ewan' in, and/or one which portrays 'real people' in the inner cities beating the s*** out of each other. I am so sick of those films! Refresh my memory please, what does RADA stand for?

Royal Academy of Dramatic Art Telephone: 020-7636 7076 Couldn't find a number for their Friends of RADA

(Tracy), It seems as if only a certain type of British film ever gets the thumbs up - anything with a 'Ewan' in, and/or one which portrays 'real people' in the inner cities beating the s*** out of each other. Ah, then perhaps those reviewers will enjoy Armadillo. ;-) A bit of violence though perhaps not enough to suit. Certainly a gritty role and I hope we are lucky enough to see Colin play it. The kilt scene alone should attract comment. (Gi) My sister saw MLSF on video, said she didn't like it much (her husband did) and that "CF again plays a loser"... LOL! You know she'd get an argument here. ;-) This won't turn you off from judging yourself, I trust. Need I mention another kilt scene?

Wonderful to hear that there is going to be a premiere...(Thank you Harvey.) And RADA is a prestigious benefit. Should get lots of stars and good press. Who is going to the London Premiere from Drool?

(Heide) This won't turn you off from judging yourself, I trust. Surely not! As long as I get to see it sometime...

(Mari) I'm very happy to hear they're having a premiere and are doing something to promote it [MLSF]. Ditto. I was mystified by BVI's "information" (shades of the BBC's handling of DQ). Am sure CF was quite delighted to read that he'd be attending the premiere in a wet shirt. ;-P (Bethan) I don't think somehow that the reviews for MLSF or CF are going to be good... MLSF reviews weren't good in the US, but most were good for CF's performance in it (except the one which said he looked like Tim Robbins). Some reviews improved when the film was released on video. British film "reviewers" seem to relish savaging British films and actors Oh, yes. I still chuckle when I think about that flaming "celluloid toilet paper" commentary. (Evelyn) Wonderful to hear that there is going to be a premiere...(Thank you Harvey.) D'ya think the 'long arm of Harvey' is involved here? I was under the impression that Miramax handed everything over to BVI and that was that. However, considering Miramax now has a vested interest in BJD...hmmm.

(Eileen) MLSF reviews weren't good in the US, but most were good for CF's performance in it Think back, Eileen, the film had great reviews here from most of the major city papers--NY Times, LA Times, Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert), Philadelphia Inquirer, Houston Chronicle, Hollywood Reporter, etc., and lots of the mid-size cities too. Trust me on this, I had over two dozen of 'em all lovingly packaged into that scrapbook which CF said he never received, and which I told him must have gone into that industrial strength shredder at his fan-friendly agent's office.:-( Oh, now I'm ticked off all over again.:-( (Heide) Ah, then perhaps those reviewers will enjoy Armadillo. ;-) . . .The kilt scene alone should attract comment. Personally, I'm all anticipation over the LSD/toss the TV scene.;-)

(Mari) Personally, I'm all anticipation over the LSD/toss the TV scene.;-) You're a baaad girl. I suspect it will be very dark.

(Mari) Think back, Eileen You're right, of course. I was thinking about Time and Entertainment Weekly. Those reviews were unfavorable and those publications have national circulations. The local, favorable reviews you mention were undoubtedly responsible for bringing in the audience since the film was afforded no publicity.

(Mari) Personally, I'm all anticipation over the LSD/toss the TV scene.;-) How about the scene when he's searching in the fridge for something to eat late at night? Potentially much more revealing! I suspect he'll wear pyjamas!

(Eileen) The local, favorable reviews you mention were undoubtedly responsible for bringing in the audience since the film was afforded no publicity. Agreed. Too bad the cast didn't pull a Patrick Stewart (will post on 127). Basically, he denounced the Ride Down Mt. Morgan producers after the curtain calls at the Saturday shows, for not promoting the play. (Bethan) How about the scene when he's searching in the fridge for something to eat late at night? Potentially much more revealing! I suspect he'll wear pyjamas! Yes, thereby scandalizing poor Berbuda! Poor, lucky Berbuda.;-) The second time I think he wears Stella's terry-cloth robe, which should be a sight. I finished the book over the weekend, and enjoyed it very much. I like Boyd's writing style--very descriptive, witty, and with vivid characters that pop off the page. With him adapting his own screenplay and Sue B. at the helm, this should be a terrific project. Am feeling just a bit concerned over the gel-haired look, though.;-)

I'm guessing that no one called Rada and offered to become a "friend." OK, so is anyone going to *happen* to walk by the ABC Shaftesbury tomorrow evening and *happen* to have his/her camera in hand and *happen* to get a photo of...erm... anybody who might *happen* to show up for the premiere? ;-)

(Evelyn) Wonderful to hear that there is going to be a premiere...(Thank you Harvey.) (Eileen)D'ya think the 'long arm of Harvey' is involved here? I was under the impression that Miramax handed everything over to BVI and that was that. However, considering Miramax now has a vested interest in BJD...hmmm. I don't think BVI was deceiving Bethan....they might only be doing the distributing and Miramax the Premiere...like they did SIL.

is anyone going to *happen* to walk by the ABC Shaftesbury tomorrow evening and *happen* to have his/her camera in hand... Well, don't look at me! I'd love to do it (and I'm famous for my camera work ;-)), but the prospect of two-and-a-half hour train journey there and back for the sake of a few glimpses - or not, as the case may be, depending on the position of various barriers, bodyguards, the limo halting place and all the associated angles, and it also might rain... I'm afraid the Donmar experience made us all a little blas�...

(Arami) I'm afraid the Donmar experience made us all a little blas�... You are so right....those West End stage doors in the dark side alleys...in the cold and rain :-( Let's pray he keeps going back to the Donmar:-)

From Tuesday's Independent: `MY LIFE SO FAR' IS PUTTNAM'S FAREWELL TO FILM INDUSTRY DAVID PUTTNAM will bring down the curtain on an era in British film making with tonight's London premiere of My Life So Far. The opening of Lord Puttnam's last film will be attended by a celebrity audience, including a heavily pregnant Cherie Blair and the stars of the film, Colin Firth and Malcolm McDowell. The movie reunites Puttnam as producer with the director Hugh Hudson, the Oscar-winning team that made Chariots of Fire in 1981. Hudson said yesterday: "David insists this is his last film. He is busy and content as a working peer. I feel very sad about it. David has been seminal to the British film industry over the last 25 years. He gave me, Alan Parker, Ridley Scott and Adrian Lyne our first films. So he can spot 'em. "I will do my utmost to persuade him to change his mind, though I don't think I will succeed. Making this film with him was the most joyful working experience of my life. In Hollywood, now, you're just a product supplier. You don't have fun any more. But this was a very British film, and a very personal film for us." My Life So Far is the tale of a young boy's coming of age in an eccentric Scottish household in the 1920s. It reveals the comedy and poignancy under the surface of an entire family in crisis as established relationships are threatened by the arrival of an enchanting outsider. The spell of childhood is broken for 10-year-old Fraser Pettigrew when he is forced to look at this family, particularly his father, through newly adult eyes. The film's screenplay, by Simon Donald, is based on part of Sir Denis Forman's autobiography, Son of Adam. Sir Denis, who became head of Granada, approved the concept for the film. Filmed entirely on location in the west Highlands of Scotland, the film was financed by Miramax Films and the Scottish Arts Council National Lottery Fund.

...and there's another mention of SLOW, the poster child of ill-placed public monies, in the Guardian...a not-so-subtle reminder for the new Film Council being launched today. "Although the deluge of cash sparked a boom in filmmaking, the lottery will be more remembered for turkeys like Rancid Aluminium and The Secret Laughter of Women. � The Secret Laughter of Women, starring Colin Firth, cost �3.3m but took just �2,832 after getting a lottery of grant of just less than �1m."

How did they expect SLOW to make any money if they didn't show it anywhere - it wasn't that bad.

I am really cheesed off with the Guardian quoting SLOW as the all time turkey....and they always say "starring Colin Firth"! Grrrrr!!!! Do they say "Rancid Aluminium" starring Rhys Ivans (?) and Joe Fiennes. Bet they don't. Also Rancid Aluminium opened in 200 cinemas, SLOW in two, and I really wonder at the accuracy of those figures...on the day I saw it I'm sure the cinema was half full. And SLOW is a rather nice little film...beautiful cinematography, charming principals, and well acted by the supporting cast. And a little boy who is sweet and polite. One thing I can guarantee is that the new Film Council won't make movies like this (or MLSF) any more! Good for Cherie! (Didn't someone spot her in the audience of 3DOR?) Maybe there'll be photos of her in tomorrow's papers amd a mention for MLSF!

Grrrr!! Again. To answer my own question...today's issue of the Guardian has just popped through the letterbox. Six turkeys are listed, but the only actor mentioned is "Colin Firth" ( although all the others starred well known actors.) And to drive their point home, there's a colour photo of CF and Nia Long (the bed picture) with a caption about it being the all time loser! Someone at the Guardian really has the knives out. I hope BJD makes millions!!!

is anyone going to *happen* to walk by the ABC Shaftesbury tomorrow evening and *happen* to have his/her camera in hand... I am tantalisingly close tonight! I have a meeting in Covent Garden at around that time. I'll walk past the cinema on my way but I shall not be able to hang around. Great publicity that Cherie Blair will be there. The only problem is that the only photographs in the paper tomorrow will be of her not ODB.

Have tried to contact Guardian from Oz. No luck, I object strongly to their knocking down of Colin as a tall poppy - Secret Laughter of Women was not that bad - in fact I thoroughly enjoyed the film. Perhaps some of the U.K. ladies could send in a complaint using me too as someone who objects to an obviously biased criticism. I don't understand what is going on in the U.K. and why Colin Firth is a whipping boy. Must be jealousy.

I may email the letters page, although I'm very busy for the rest of today, and it would have to be succinct and witty ...and there are other points I'd like to make about the new policy for the Film Council. On a brighter note, RADA and Cherie Blair will make the MLSF premiere very high profile. Should be well attended by celebrities and those in the arts world. And the papers should pick up on it.

I can quite understand why CF keeps such a low profile in this country, I am dreading the Guardian review for MLSF. It also makes me so mad when Journalists distort the facts or fail to mention certain facts such as SLOW only being shown in a very limited number of cinemas and cities. I guess its best to ignore these people, at least we know the facts, unfortunately there is not much we CF fans can do, we are a very small number in the UK.

Well, how do you like that? Colin goes to a premiere only once every year and a half or so, but each time he does, the wife of a head of state shows up! You pick your spots well, Colin!;-) Very nice send-off for the film with Mrs. Blair coming. Yes, I do recall that someone spotted her at 3DOR--she must be a Firth fan, which shows good taste. And didn't her father come to one of the protests that CF took part in? RE: the Guardian--granted, SLOW is not a great film, but there is nothing offensive about it, which I gather is not the case with some of the other films mentioned. It certainly doesn't deserve to be continuously singled out. For what it's worth, I am sending them an e-mail protesting their distortion of the facts and calling into question their racial motivation.:-(

(Allison) I'll walk past the cinema on my way but I shall not be able to hang around. No matter, so long as you keep your eyes peeled. Look for the brown suit--no, maybe he'll bring out the ensemble he wore at the SiL premiere (black, dark shirt, yellow tie). Looking forward to whatever details you can furnish, Allison. Thanks. (Mari) And didn't her father come to one of the protests that CF took part in? Was it the Sainsbury's shopping spree (aka toilet brush pic ;-)) or the chain wrap in front of Parliament? See, Ev, the steel trap's getting rusty!

I guess its best to ignore these people, at least we know the facts, unfortunately there is not much we CF fans can do, we are a very small number in the UK. Actually, I think there are still a very large number of women who like him in the UK, but it's not easy to be a "fan" as such...he's not like a soap star and his work isn't always very accessible and of course, he's very private! Am supposed to be "working at home" but have drafted a mental email amd shall send it!

Pushing the Guardian to one side and focusing on the positive!....Cherie's presence at the Premiere is really quite complimentary. Her baby is apparently due late May and I read somewhere that she's given up all public engagements. This must be a one-off.

From Excite: Cherie in star turn at charity premiere Cherie Blair, with just weeks to go before the birth of her fourth child, has made a public appearance in London at the premiere of a British film featuring a Scottish family. A beaming and relaxed Mrs Blair mingled with Hollywood stars at the charity premiere of My Life So Far, at central London's ABC Shaftesbury Avenue cinema. She arrived with the film's director-producer team of Hugh Hudson and Lord Puttnam, whose collaboration on the project is their first since they made the 1981 Oscar-winning Chariots of Fire. Mrs Blair, dressed in a cream dress topped off with a matching wool frock coat, smiled at the waiting crowd and signed autographs before watching the premiere which is in aid of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. Colin Firth, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Malcolm McDowell, who star in the film based on the autobiography of television executive Sir Denis Forman about a young boy's coming of age in an eccentric Scottish 1920s household, also attended. Neil and Glenys Kinnock plus model Luciana Morad, mother of Mick Jagger's child, and American actor Billy Zane were also among the guests. The film opens in the UK on May 12.

Who were the Hollywood stars...aside from Billy Z? :-o Hmmm, maybe I should turn on the BBC or ITN news here.

From The Times (pic was of Cherie and Puttnam: Puttnam's latest is for the whole family LORD PUTTNAM was accompanied last night by Cherie Blair, the wife of the Prime Minister, to the British charity premiere of My Life So Far, his latest film. The film reunites the director-producer team of Hugh Hudson and David Puttnam for the first time since they won the Best Picture Oscar for Chariots of Fire in 1981. It is based on the autobiography of Sir Denis Forman, the television executive, and is the tale of a young boy's coming of age in an eccentric Scottish household in the 1920s. Lord Puttnam, 59, said he was inspired by its message about the importance of families, "which is not a popular subject these days". He said: "For anyone who has been in a relationship, it is very powerful." He added that it is not "a Sound of Music celebration of the family". While he expected it to be his last film, he said that he has "never said never". Among the celebrities who attended the premiere were Colin Firth, one of the film's leading actors, and Claudia Schiffer, the supermodel.

From The Times (pic was of Cherie and Puttnam: Naturally, why would you photograph the star and the best looking man there :-(

At least they mentioned him! End of the Invisible Man syndrome?

Sorry - was on holiday for a week and did not get through enough posts yesterday to find out about the premiere so I did not go along for a gawp. Cherie and Claudia are a couple of surprisingly A-list female celebs to be attending a somewhat low-key premiere, IMO. Bewitched by the leading man, I wonder? (remember Cherie loves BJD - I once posted a titbit about Cherie buttonholing HF to say how the book had been a major bedroom distraction)

(Mark), Cherie loves BJD - I once posted a titbit about Cherie buttonholing HF to say how the book had been a major bedroom distraction) Except for that one night. ;-)) You would have been our perfect rep./spy last night Mark. Thanks, Karen and Mari for such quick reporting! Is Billy Z a Hollywood Star? In any case, that FF matching and no picture? :-(

'Fraid I have little to report. I went to the cinema just before 7pm. There were some camera men and a few (very few) fans waiting. Nobody famous or unfamous seemed to be going in and they were not expecting celebs for a while. I could not stay as had to get to a meeting. Will go and buy ES today and see if it has any more pictures. We may have to wait a few weeks for the ES magazine. These things are often shown there. Sorry no more exciting news.

A friend told me that Cherie Blair and DP were on GMTV this morning at the Premiere, pictures of Colin & MMcD, Colin wore grey apparently and looked very happy, can't believe I missed it, sorry.

I did see them on GMTV news. Reporter was talking to Cherie Blair and MMcD with Colin in the background talking to another reporter. MMcD was being very complimentary to CF, great British actor etc. and speaking loudly over his shoulder to where Colin stood. Colin then chipped in and laughing said "Is Malcolm boring you with how it all started". Right Ann, he was wearing a grey suit. I did set the video for the next news but news reader talked over a very short clip although they did manage a very nice close up of CF.

Excellent! Thanks, Aishling. Anything notable about his appearance? Hair color? (It is rather early in the BJD shoot for anything definitive.) Thanks, Allison and Mark, for reporting in.

I did mean to mention his hair. Looked natural colour but a bit longer than when we saw him in Jan.

Ah! What time was the GMTV news? I actually recorded GMTV from about 7 to 8.! I looked at a bit and assumed there was nothing there. I shall have another look. The man from Sky is crawling over my equipment at the moment so I will not be able to view just yet!

7.30am. There was a much shorter report at 8.30 when I had set my video.

Woohoo! News, news! It looks like a small reprieve from the Invisible Man Syndrome, Gi (but he's gonna have to get used to this when BJD publicity drive starts). Hmmm...has the grey LA premiere suit emigrated from the condo closet? Did he wear a black shirt? Thanks for your reports, ladies.

The Grey Suit has seen several premieres....TEP,SIL in NY...where else? Aishling, could you see Livia? Was there a crowd In the lobby? Thanks Allison and Mark ..(I just knew Mark would have been there...)

(remember Cherie loves BJD - I once posted a titbit about Cherie buttonholing HF to say how the book had been a major bedroom distraction) } Obviously not too much of a distraction if she's due to deliver in a few weeks time... I still haven't seen MLSF. And if I recall, I don't think the Boston Globe gave it favorable reviews. I believe they called it mundane.

I have it all on tape! 7.30 and 8.30. I have had a quick look and he seems to be wearing dark grey suit, darkish grey shirt and silver tie. Looking very smart. No sign of Livia but he was only shown being interviewed.

There didn't seem to be many people in the lobby. I didn't see Livia. But it was a very short report.

Thanks Aishling and Allison for the reports! (Allison)dark grey suit, darkish grey shirt and silver tie. Looking very smart. Mmmmm, the Regis Philbin monochromatic look--very elegant. Wouldn't mind seeing some snappies if someone can manage it.:-) I wonder if Billy Z. wore his hair for the occasion?;-) And how's this for a dubious claim to fame: "Luciana Morad, mother of Mick Jagger's child." Gee, I thought Jerry Hall did all the premiere work in the family; she was at the Cannes shindig last year for MLSF/AMFAR. Oh, I get it now, she probably told Luciana that it was a good movie.;-) Sorry to be rude, but some of these people just make it so darn easy!;-) Laura, for shame, not seeing MLSF! The Boston Globe review was absolutely glowing--Jay Carr wrote it--Karen posted it here I believe. Trust me, I know 'em by heart.;-)

Thanks for the reports, ladies! Mark, good to see you back, hope your holiday was great. (Mari)Wouldn't mind seeing some snappies if someone can manage it.:-) Ditto here :-)

There was a report in the Daily Telegraph...big pic of Cherie and David Puttnam. Can't remember the exact wording, but it said that the stars of the film (CF etc)attended. You could sort of see a crowd of onlookers in the background, and I think the report said that Cherie chatted to the crowd. It's not mega publicity, but for a small British film it's pretty good! And I would think that many attending might be well known in the arts world (perhaps people like Sue Birtwistle?) but not the "celebrities" (soap stars, Posh Spice, Madonna etc) who get the press coverage. There was also quite a lot on the news about the plans for the new Film Council (thankfully no mention of SLOW!) They'll be supporting populist commercial films that draw the crowds in on Friday night, and not the sort of dramas that belong more to television. Well, good luck to them!

Also had to compete with another premiere of sorts. The Sex Pistols documentary (The Filth and the Fury) preemed at a theatre in Islington last night too. Probably not going to attract the same crowd. ;-D (Mari) Mmmmm, the Regis Philbin monochromatic look Thought I'd just read that Rege's look is actually Chris Tarrant's and is a program spec.

Thanks for all your exciting and up to the minute reports Ladies, not quite the vanishing man--- yet!! Billy Zane, am I right in thinking he was in Femme Fatale and also his sister Lisa Zane? Or am I suffering from "reading too much totally irrelevant gossip in the dentist's waiting room" syndrome? Johnathan Firth is on the front of next week's Radio Times, I didn't recognise him. His hair seems much lighter. It is to publicise the Summer series/programmes on offer. I am afraid I didn't note what he is in, vainly looking for some DQ mention!! No prizes for guessing the outcome of that one.

Naturally I meant Jonathan! Something about his appearance in FMTMC demolishing with "one rapier" thrust the "only Colin Firth's younger brother syndrome." Or something akin to that (sorry Arami :)) You will have to go and check your local newsagents too!

Yes, Lizza, both Billy and Lisa Zane were in FF with Colin. Billy's claim to fame however is Titanic and the recent, and deservedly maligned, made-for-TV movie Cleopatra (Marc Anthony). ;-)

(Mari) I wonder if Billy Z. wore his hair for the occasion?;-) *snort* (Lizza) Billy Zane, am I right in thinking he was in Femme Fatale and also his sister Lisa Zane? 'course. Bet FF is listed on top of each of their resumes...(not!)

Yes, Lizza Billy and Colin were in FF. Thanks for your reports! I am not crazy about a grey suit with a silver tie, very bland. Then again, I do not like suits with black shirts either. I hope we will more news on this premiere, and photos, snappies, anything! Also had to compete with another premiere of sorts. The Sex Pistols documentary (The Filth and the Fury) preemed at a theatre in Islington last night too. Probably not going to attract the same crowd. ;-D I confess I would go to both. Saw them live in San Francisco, have spoken to John Lydon aka Johnny Rotten. They were bang-on! ;-D

I wonder if Billy Z. and CF and buds. (They *did* spend some quality time together in that FF wading pool.;-) You generally don't see BZ's name on the list of premiere regulars. Lisa Z. still acts, but I understand she has a pretty good singing career going, mostly club dates. Lizza, good to hear from you. Bethan, I think this is very good coverage. Except for the very biggest films, most premieres don't rate a mention in the mainstream press here. Seems like there was good coverage last evening. Very smart to have Cherie Blair there--all these mentions are good exposure for the film.

Yes, I agree...premieres rarely rate a mention, so this is good coverage. May also be something in my fave magazines....OK and Hello! :-) Lizza, I'm sure DQ is a dead cert for the Autumn. I hope it heads the BBC drama line-up for Autumn. I had time over Easter to watch it properly...IMHO it's very good indeed...excellent ensemble acting. And I understood every word!

Well done Aishling and Alison! I bought the London ES this evening, sure that there would be something of note therein...but no..it's only THE London paper after all! Will scour around for the colour supplements this week and post if any pics appear! Anyway decent pix or not and ES excepted, all this publicity for MLSF can only be good for ODB..no more wandering about in the darkness...it's limelight time!!

Thanks for all the news everyone. Wish I lived in London, I had no previous engagements on Tuesday night and could have easily attended. I thought Lisa Zane was Billy's wife at the time of FF and that they are no longer together??? Although now "sister" has been mentioned, they do look similar.

They are brother and sister.

Lizza - why are you sorry about that Jonathan Firth remark? I don't get it... UK chums, please remind me when ES publishes its weekly magazine? Would you believe: I've had a copy of today's ES specially hunted for me - and all for nothing!!! Grrrrr!

This fun bit thanks to an FOF, Martine: From the news clip at the MLSF premiere: Malcolm McDowell and Colin standing right next to each other pretending to be answering different reporters at the same time. Colin laughing and enjoying himself immensely. Commentary: The film's two male stars Colin and Malcolm McDowell enjoy working together: Malcolm: 'Except for Colin Firth who's a bit of a ... oh, no sorry ... Colin butts in: 'Yes. Malcolm McDowell is very very difficult to work with ... (They "see" each other) M : 'Oh Colin ... C : 'Daarling, how are you? M : '...brilliant actor ... one of the greatest actors of the moment - Colin Firth. C : 'Is he boring you about how it all started out?' CUT ************ Murph Actor of the moment... LOL!

Mickie has the Radio Times Jon Firth cover at her web site: http://www.geocities.com/~byebar/radiot2.html Murph

Radio Times Jon Firth cover at her web site: Thanks Murph...but which one is JF...the one standing with the high cheek-bones and straight bangs on his face or the one squatting with the soccer ball? I don't see any remote resemblance in either one to Colin.Sorry.

Thanks Murph! Evelyn Jon is standing. In the smaller picture he looks very much like Marco Van Basten, one of the greatest soccer players ever. His comment on stage acting was very funny. I hope it does not rub off on big brother. one of the greatest actors of the moment - Colin Firth. V. cute!

Nice reporting of the preview (I hope they got the charity funds they wanted.) Now to await the more wiespread reviews. I seemed to recall a mixed batch when MLSF first came out so went back for a quick reviews of the late July entries reporting MLSF reviews. 10 were strongly for. 7 Strongly against 3 had mixed feelings. So Don't be surprised if you see some awful ones in the UK. Seems you either "get it" or you don't.

(Karen)the recent, and deservedly maligned, made-for-TV movie Cleopatra (Marc Anthony). ;-) With Penelope Cruz as Cleopatra, yes I saw it... Aaaarrgh! Terrible. Also saw Eyes Wide Shut on video this week... I confess mine were quite shut after about 1h45m... I saw nothing to warrant all the fuss. No story, do acting, no photography... The scenarios perhaps? :-(

I tried to use the url from your post, Murph, and was "forbidden entry"... What was that about?

Leonor Varela (Brazilian I think) was Cleo.

Gi: Try this: http://www.geocities.com/jonfirthfan/radiot2.html Murph

There's a small item on Colin in today's Daily Telegraph (in the Peterborough column) Interviewed at the premiere of "My Life So Far" Colin Firth had this to say about the first day of filming of "Bridget Jones' Diary": "Day 1 : 12 stone (reportedly), no cigarettes, alcohol units 2, no arguments or hitches, filming going well (fingers crossed)" 12 stone is 168 pounds, which I think is about 73 kg. He's still off the ciggies, but must have had a beer! I like the account of the premiere...you never see CF goofing around!

Sorry-o. Karen's beaten me to it, and I've posted at the wrong place anyway. BTW no pic.

(KarenR)Leonor Varela (Brazilian I think) was Cleo. Oooops! Wrong actress. Thanks for the correction, Karen :-)

BTW no pic Good to know. I was going to ask before I went in search of the paper tomorrow.

(Arami) UK chums, please remind me when ES publishes its weekly magazine There are two main mags Arami, 'Hot Tickets' guide to Films, Theatre, Arts etc.etc... is free with the Evening Standard on Thursdays and the glossy ES (I think that's what it's called) which comes out each Friday. Todays HT has nothing in it but as MLSF is released 12th May it's probably worth seeking out next weeks. I'll be grabbing my ES copy tomorrow evening and will post anything of note! Hope this helps.

BTW have just accessed Liz's News & Updates page at http://hem.passagen.se/lmw/news.html Some nice snappies (courtesy Dolores) from SLOW there ...feast your eyes! Mmmmm :)~~~ Must rent that out...again, that guy at Blockbusters will be getting ideas!

Good to see a few mentions for CF and MLSF!! I'm quite hopeful about the publicity for RV as well...probably more so than MLSF. There'll be a premiere, and I think JA's first film in, what, ten years? will attract quite a lot of attention. Also it's distributed by Atlantic Alliance, who distributed "Sunshine" and, I think, did well...they got ten theatres in London, and ten independents nationwide. Plus advertising. I'm sure they'll do the same for RV...maybe another premiere for CF by the end of May? And maybe a showing at the Curzon again? Most Brit film get zero publicity (nothing at all for "The Last September" with Michael Gambon (I think Mari asked about this) which opens this week) so Colin's doing okay. Tracy, Matthew *is* a feast for the eyes...SLOW needed a few female reviewers!!

Arami, just a wicked reminder that I was doing my best to quote my source :} Tracy, thanks for SLOW tip.BTW I went into Virgin the other day to enquire about SLOW retail release, but they had no date as yet. Anyone else further on with that? Look forward to ES providing some scrumptious pics for us to feast our eyes on. I had an email from a friend today commenting on the fact CF was on TV and expecting I had seen it (I hadn't) do we know if the clips were on BBC as well as GMTV?

Thanks, Tracy. Hee-hee, Lizza: absolute accuracy is required only when quoting materials about ODB... :-)

(Bethan) 12 stone is 168 pounds, which I think is about 73 kg Yikes! He's a twig! Come on over to my house, honey, and I'll fatten you up. Seriously, that's a very good weight but I don't think another 5 or 6 pounds would hurt him a bit. I've posted at the wrong place anyway. I always come here first anyway. Please don't stop posting Colin stuff here too.

(Bethan) 12 stone is 168 pounds, which I think is about 73 kg (Heide)Yikes! He's a twig! Not really... He's not that much taller than my DH who weighs 68 kg at present :-)

At last! A Colin is featured in the Times Saturday magazine. I am rushing off for the weekend so will probably not have an opportunity to scan anything but I am sure others will be able to. It is by Jasper Rees(ce?)again. Interesting points: they are living in Barnsbury, a smart part of Islington (I drive through there at least twice a week), replying to whether they will have children Colin says "it'll happen",they spend July and August in Umbria with Will. The featured quote is "I want to be well thought of. I want to be prosperous. I want to be respected. Lots of other stuff which I am afraid I don't have time to type. I am sure some one else in the UK will be able to!

Thanks, Allison, have a good weekend! UK ladies, you are warned :-)

Too late, Allison beat met to it. Have not seen it yet, my hubby just rang to tell me about the interview with masses and masses of photos so he says, will see it lunchtime. Will be pleased to scan it Karen. Apparently RV opens on the 23rd June. James says there are pictures he hasn't seen before. Will post more later. Good ole' Jasper.

Allison has already alerted you all....he's on the front of the Times magazine, which was lying on the doormat this morning. I actually recognised the legs!! It's by Jasper Rees, who has interviewed him several times (must definitely be a buddy) and is very long, very perceptive...haven't had time to take it all in. One interesting story is how he and Livia went to see JE in TRT at the Donmar and found themselves sitting next to the Blairs. And he says that interviewers have focused too much on the so-called "misery" of his schooldays. He seems to spend a lot of time in LA with Will. Yes, please scan it, Ann....there's a lot to absorb! And the legs are great!

Is it accessible online....or perhaps the magazine content isn't available?