(Karen)You probably couldn't tell how many people were attending some of the other films, could you? Funnily enough, I thought all of them and it was the first thing we said. Did it seem television-like to you? I mention this as many of you in the UK thought MLSF was television fare. IMO it could be both. I think that what we said about MLSF was that we have many dramas on tv similar to the film and that is why we didn't rave about it.

Thanks Aishling...I know you and Ann went to a lot of trouble and expense to get there.We appreciate your report. Mentioned that DQ had been rejected by the London and Edinburgh Film Festivals so big applause for Birmingham. LOL....changed her story from Chicago.Somebody's got to tell these folks who give interviews that their comments are compared now that we have the international Internet....;-)

Thanks, Aishling. So now we know it was rejected at the LIFF and that is probably what has happened to Londinium as well. Poor Colin. Would they do the same to Ralph? Welcome, Janine!

So now we know it was rejected at the LIFF and that is probably what has happened to Londinium as well. Poor Colin. Would they do the same to Ralph? Ralph had a rough time getting a distributor for "Onegin" despite being shown in Toronto and some other FF. But you know what he did? He got out there and worked like a dog promoting it . (He was also the producer;-) Finally a small distrb picked it up...it was shown in a limited number of cities and on Starz.

Aishling , thanks so much for reporting back to us all so quickly all that was said by DB and DF. You said that he looked good on screen, care to share your favourite scene/bit? It's a while since I saw it , so my memory could do with refreshing!! Glad you got back safely despite railtrack etc Welcome to you Janine.

That's right Evelyn, promotion is the key, as you have said many a time. For Onegin he went on GMTV with Eamon Holmes at 7.45am and simpered away in a shirt undone to the waist. Did the trick! (But not easy on the eye!!) I am glad that it's not ODB's style to do it quite like that, but a teensy weensy bit more of a profile would help!! Whoops, no brownie points to me for resurecting this "old chesnut" so I will shut up in the hope we will hear from Ann instead.

(Evelyn) Ralph had a rough time getting a distributor for "Onegin" despite being shown in Toronto and some other FF But the operative word is that he got it into Toronto and other *major* fests. Wasn't it at London last year? Our poor little DQ can't even get arrested. :-( (Lizza) Whoops, no brownie points to me for resurecting this "old chesnut" LOL! Off with their heads!! ;-)

(Karen)But the operative word is that he got it into Toronto and other *major* fests. That's my point...he took it there...gave press conferences..even went to an obscure FF in Spain. Anyway, moot question. We'll see Londinium eventually.

It had to be accepted first. Maybe he promised them his first-born child in addition to personal appearances and gala stuff.

Maybe he promised them his first-born child in addition to personal appearances and gala stuff. Now you are spilling the family secrets, Karen. (Evelyn), even went to an obscure FF in Spain. The San Sebastian FF is very well known.

Hi All, Well despite a four hour journey taking 6 hours, slow trains, terminated trains and cancelled trains, it was WORTH IT. We had a really lovely time and I really like Birmingham (much to my surprise), must go back for a shopping trip. Anyway, I digress, it was wonderful to see DQ on the big screen and it sounds like we shall be the only ones, a cinema release in the UK is very very unlikely although as Aishling says they have hopes for some overseas releases and said the US audience were very enthusiatic and that "the Americans liked it". I have never seen ODB looking so good on the big screen, forget SIL,TEP, RV, MLSF, he is absolutely gorgeous in this and this is the best he has looked since P&P IMO. If only I could freeze-frame that closing shot and have it as a screen-saver. I reallly don't know why Colin has to diet and exercise to look better than this, and this was only made 9 months before BJD, I just hope he hasn't overdone it because to my mind he is just perfect as DQ and it is a shame that we shall be the only ones to see it on the big screen in the UK. To my complete surprise I found myself putting my hand up to ask a question at question time, I just had to know if we were going to see it on the BBC especially as it see s unlikely that we shall see it at the cinema. Anyway I asked DB if it doesn't get a cinema release are we likely to see it on the BBC and he said well the BBC paid for it (not much) but they paid for it and no doubt it will be shown on the BBC in due course, so eventually we shall get to see it on the TV but don't hold your breath, what a waste. They said they had made it as a feature film so I guess they will persevere with this as much as possible. DB spoke very highly of Colin and said he was a very unselfish actor and he also said that all the actors agreed that they would rather have a young boy with learning difficuties rather than an actor to play ?(name escapes me) and he also said that Colin was very good with him and that it showed on screen, the sceens between them both are particularly good. Lizza, my favourite scene is where Colin gives those two old ladies a very cheeky grin as he is handing out the leaflets, I just love it but it comes and goes so quickly. (Oh what is the young lad's name it is getting very late. Perhaps someone will tell me.) Well that is about it, the audience reation was good, they laughed in all the right places. I was just a bit worred about Clive because there were times when even knowing the story I couldn't understand what he was saying and it seemed worse on the big screen than on the small screen. DF & DB were both very nice and quite happy to answer questions, they had expected the BBC to have done more to promote DQ in the first place but in the end DF had to take over, I do think th is is very bad of the BBC, it is after all License payer's money and they should have done more having made the investment in it in the first place. Oh well that is all for now, must go to bed.

I agree with Ann. I have never thought he was too thin. In P&P when he is standing at the window at the parsonage, when Elizabeth says that once his good opinion is lost it is lost forever. I thought that he was really thin. I may be a bit biased, but what the h---.

Glad to see that you made it home safe and sound, Ann, and that the big screen DQ did not disappoint. So DQ ranks right behind P&P in gorgeousability IYO? Love it! Although, his Daniel look is not my fav. Ick that slicked hair. Sounds like DB is a little bitter, with that response about BBC paying and not much. I know what you mean about understanding Clive and I can't count the number of times I've watched it. He should be subtitled...although, as I said before, David O'Hara is now on an American television series and speaks with nearly as heavy an accent. BTW, the lad's character name was Sandy, played by David Brown. I know you're worn out from the travel.

Thanks very much Ann and Aishling for reporting back so promptly. And I'm very happy to hear that it was a successful trip, that you really enjoyed DQ on the Big Screen (and didn't find Birmingham was too bad!)You both deserve a medal for enduring all the train disruptions etc. Well done! DB spoke very highly of Colin and said he was a very unselfish actor CF is a nice man (IMHO well worth supporting...and I've never been a fan of any actor before!). Although I suspect he's working in a profession in which most people put themselves first. DF & DB were both very nice and quite happy to answer questions, they had expected the BBC to have done more to promote DQ in the first place but in the end DF had to take over, The attitude of the BBC defies belief (Will start phoning again to complain!). Also I cannot, repeat, cannot, comprehend why DQ was turned down by LIFF, and Edinburgh. Edinburgh, Edinburgh for God's sake, can't find a place for a film made in Scotland with Scottish actors? Ridiculous! And LIFF, where 90% of British film showm disappear to total obscurity (we're not talking about being shortlisted for the Oscars), can't find a place for a film from a director with 2 BAFTAs to his name. DQ was shown at Cork, to good reviews...so, what happened? Mind you Cork is in Eire, not Great Britain! My only theory, which may be far-fetched, is malice, pure and simple. I don't think male reviwers like CF, and I think the same attitude may extend to super cool festival organisers..."oh,dear me, not Mr Darcy.." I always remenmber a comment CF made about his little boy being more perceptive than him. He said that his son said one day, "dad, that man doesn't like you" (very nice to have your son looking out for you!). I suspect that there are quite a few men out there who are not well disposed to CF! a cinema release in the UK is very very unlikely although as Aishling says they have hopes for some overseas releases and said the US audience were very enthusiatic and that "the Americans liked it". Well, all I can say is thank God for the US! I honestly think that CF should move his work base away from the UK and spend more time with his son! The HBO project sounds fine, international cast, serious theme , promotion and release date guaranteed. Also BJD will be well promoted in the US, and CF should get good reviews. Entertainment is global. Forget Little England, in all senses of the word! Final word on DQ... deserves attention if only for David Brown's performance. How disappointing for him. BTW..."Onegin". RF may have had to work for it in the US, but all doors opened wide for him in the UK, absolutely no problem. LIFF, Edinburgh showings, distributor, national release, blanket coverage in all the quality papers and glossy mags, tv interviews etc, high profile. Not for him, the ignominy of being "turned down". How do you promote something that can't even get shown in Edinburgh? End of rant!

Bravo Ann!! Thanks for such a detailed and informative account of your DQ experience. The sadness and at times, pure anger, invoked by the attitude of the BBC etc has been softened for me by your comments about how he looks etc and the esteem in which he is held by his fellow professionals. Your journey sounds awful, thanks to you and Aishling for going thro' hell and highwater to bring us all the news. Really appreciated, sounds like you could forge a new career in question asking too. Off to find that bit with the 2 old ladies!

Just an aside , I agree Lucie wih your comments about his thinness. In 3DOR when I was in the front row , I noticed (casually and quite unintentionally, you understand) how his jeans were hanging in folds. We described him as "rake thin" then. ( sorry credit to Evie due) What makes me sad is the possibility of someone making a lot of money out of the fact they have honed "Mr Darcy" to perfection, the article I mentioned having been spotted last week, points to that possible eventuality. Meanwhile we carry on thinking he is "perfect" however he looks!!!

How do you promote something that can't even get shown in Edinburgh? Good point, Bethan. Colin must be wondering what the h... went wrong?

(Lizza) In 3DOR when I was in the front row , I noticed (casually and quite unintentionally, you understand) how his jeans were hanging in folds. Unintentionally, you say?! *hee hee* I was sitting next to you. That's not all you were noticing, but your secret is safe with me. Cornel used "the man who got Leonardo di Caprio in shape for The Beach" before switching to ODB. Leo is old news. Celebrity endorsement is normal. It will be replaced by his next celebrity assignment.

That reminds me Karen, isn't this month's instalment due to you now? Better send my "bribe" off post haste. Can see I'll be "paying" you for the rest of my life on that one. Beats me what a girl could do with so much Spam! :�)) Let's remind ourselves that the publicity over Colin's new svelte bodyshape won't really surface until the BJD release. The things we droolers have to look forward to......

Here's the UK cover: and this looks to be the American... (looks like some people--relationship unknown--got lost)

agree Lucie wih your comments about his thinness. In 3DOR when I was in the front row , I noticed (casually and quite unintentionally, you understand) how his jeans were hanging in folds. Unintentionally, you say?! *hee hee* I was sitting next to you. That's not all you were noticing, but your secret is safe with me. LOL! I've never had the pleasure of seeing the Man in the Flesh, but i think he could put on 2 stone, not loose it! More news of "Conspiracy" from Excite Nov 1 Ian McNiece, British thesp, has joined KB and ST in "Conspiracy". The HBO telepic which begins lensing on Wednesday in London recreates the 1942 gathering in Wansee. IM is a British character actor par excellence...was Valmont's manservant, has played many other roles.

Three's company, six is a crowd. :-)

Good to see RV covers Karen. I still have that pleasure at my local BB to come. BTW anyone else notice the deliberate mistake in this week's Radio Times? MLSF write up on video page, giving rental info AND cost �14.99 making it appear you can purchase it. Virgin et al say the release date to purchase has not been given to them yet. Another typical BBC C*** up!

(Bethan) Ian McNiece, British thesp, has joined KB and ST in "Conspiracy". Did they say what role he plays? Better not be bigger than Dr. Stuckart's.

I don't know the real reason surrounding DQ not being accepted at these festivals (if indeed it was submitted...DF changed her story when she crossed the Pond),but I doubt there is a conspiracy against ODB. This is a business, out to get an audience...not a petty "hen party".

*clap clap* Thank you, Ann and Aishling, for your DQ reports. Your efforts to get there and report back so expiditiously are appreciated.

May I add my thanks to Ann and Aishling for your reports. Well done on getting there and back and posting so soon (I only wish I could have joined you). Just thought I'd share a little something from todays "Metro". The subject of the 60 second interview is Nick Hornby and the first question is: "Q. I didn't know Colin Firth was a writer as well as an actor until I saw his work in your anthology. NH - It's his first published piece. I think it was very brave. I'd known he was interested and I thought this might be something to get him started. I could see he was extremely excited to be asked and he just needed a finger, rather than two hands, to push him over the edge. I've talked to him a lot over the last few years; he's incredibly bright and I thought that he'd come up with something interesting" See I told you it was a little something!

Good "little something," Tracy. Some of us have talked about how Colin got involved, who knew what, etc. This kind of nails it down.

Hello Janine. I've no idea if you live in the United States, but if you do, have a Happy Thanksgiving.

So Colin is interested in writing now. I think we could do with the sequel to AZ. ;-) Thanks, Tracy!

(Karen)Here's the UK cover [for RV]: and this looks to be the American... (looks like some people--relationship unknown--got lost) While I am grrrr-ing at Colin and Stephen Fry being replaced by the two less-than-talented Americans, I am relieved that the photo is at least tasteful. After the horrid video sleeve that was designed for the U.S. release of Fever Pitch, the RV cover doesn't look so bad ;-). Ann and Aishling, thanks for all the news from Birmingham. And welcome Janine!

Jennifer has posted her report on Colin's reading at Pemberley. Here it is: The Report on Colin's reading (long-ish) by JenniferR Sorry for the delay! Without further ado... Colin read four excerpts from three Italian authors: Buffalino, Pirandello, and Sciascia (sorry if I misspelled any of those!). All of his readings dealt with death--terribly uplifting on a sunny Sunday morning in London. The room was full (about 100 people) with what looked to be a combination of Colin Firth fans, and fans of Italian Literature. Nary a male was in sight. Colin was dressed in all black--shoes, trousers, shirt, jacket--and his hair looked as though it was dyed a bit darker than nature intended. And he looked very wan. Still, he was easy on the eyes. His voice was beautiful--I'm sorry, but film does not do justice to the complete man in the flesh. The nuances he brought to the text were amazing. His voice has an almost hypnotic quality to it. The overhead lights were dimmed for the reading, with just a few lights focused on him for the duration. The lighting changed depending on the reading, and he did do some reading from an armchair. He had to leave as soon as he was finished--as you may have read, he is filming a movie for HBO called "Conspiracy" (we have the woman filming the reading to thank for that information--she was quite helpful!). We were blessed with a "thank you" and a smile before he bolted, however. Alas, there was no opportunity to take pictures--as soon as he came into the room, the reading began. Nevertheless, it was well worth attending. Jennie has posted some other details of our pilgramage at drool.

The room was full (about 100 people) with what looked to be a combination of Colin Firth fans, and fans of Italian Literature. Nary a male was in sight. LOL. No wonder he took off;-) Thanks Karen, Jennifer and Jennie

Have unearthed another cast member for Conspiracy: Kevin McNally His agent/manager's website posted the following news on Oct 17: "Shooting has just started on CONSPIRACY. KEVIN MCNALLY appears alongside Kenneth Branagh in this chilling story of Nazi Germany." Here's his picture (ladies, we saw him in Lady in the Van. He was one of the Alan Bennetts)

Ok, I've now waded through the 90+ messages that greeted me when I logged on. You ladies astonish me, the depth of your knowledge of all possible projects, and the sleuthing of any little mention. I am in awe. Thanks for all the welcomes, I have a terrible habit of slipping back into lurkdom, and I'm trying not to let that happen, because you all are such fun (even when you are discouraged by lack of (or bad) news). It seems all this bad stuff comes during a week which has been one of the worst of my life, capped off my my roommate and best friend moving out and taking the computer, so I am left with only the one at work, so reading and posting is limited. Yes, Heide, I have seen Playmaker, in fact it was the third movie of his I saw, but I didn't let it affect my admiration for him. I thought he looked fabulous in it, and I rather enjoyed certain scenes. As for Camille, it's no Playmaker, but it had it's good points (I might be abusing sarcasm here). I've never been a big fan of melodrama, and I thought it was rather incomplete. It didn't really let you get to know Margaurite before "boom, she's dying". However, CF and Greta Scacci made a gorgeous couple, and I enjoyed him. It wasn't bad for what it was. This weekend I shall watch P&P2 again. I prefer it without commercials, anyway. I hope all my fellow Americans have a happy Thanksgiving. I will not be able to check the board until next Thursday as I'll be out of the office, and hopefully, I'll return to some good news.

(Noelle) Yes, Heide, I have seen Playmaker, in fact it was the third movie of his I saw, but I didn't let it affect my admiration for him. I thought he looked fabulous in it, and I rather enjoyed certain scenes. LOL, yes most of us have admitted at one time or another to enjoying certain aspects of this film ;-). (Noelle) It didn't really let you get to know Margaurite before "boom, she's dying". And what a death scene it was :-). This is one part of Camille that I cannot bear to watch because it is so corny and Greta's acting is just waaay OTT for my taste. Sorry about the bad week Noelle. I hope things will look better after a nice, long weekend.

Thank you, JanaJH, for making me smile. Things are already starting to look up. I just need several days to relax, watch movies, and read. I'm sure nothing can be quite as bad after stuffing oneself with turkey, seeing CF's fabulous face and form on screen, and reading some Austen. Course, then I always wind up wondering why I can't find a man like that...

Why we can't find a man like that? BECAUSE THEY BROKE THE MOLD (MOULD)AFTER HIM.

Aishling and Ann - a big thank you for reporting back to us so quickly on DQ. You really came through and I can't tell you how much I appreciate to what ends so many go through to bring home the news! Ann, my favorite shot is also the one of him grinning at the older ladies as he's handing out the fliers. It looks so natural and unrehearsed. What a honey! Welcome Janine and glad you returned, Noelle. Loved your comments about Camille - my favorite film (snort!) But as you so judiciously say, "it wasn't bad for what it was".

(Karen)Have unearthed another cast member for Conspiracy: Kevin McNally Five down...ten more Nazis to go!

Have just got a reply back from Charlotte McCandlish at Penguin following my, ever hopeful, question as to who will narrate the stories in the SWTA audiobook. Bad news I'm afraid girls! "The authors don't read their stories for the audiobook - instead we have these actors reading: David Brody, Dermot Crowley, Jason Flemyng, Miriam Margolyes, Neil Pearson, Martin T Sherman and Ray Winstone." Humph, better get over to Amazon quick and cancel my pre-order!!

Thanks for the information Tracy. Another disappointment. Have just cancelled my pre-order too.

Brought to you by the same people who distributed SLOW: Hostage Short Online An animated short film based on the real life experiences of Beirut hostage Brian Keenan will be released on the internet from 24 November. From An Evil Cradling is adapted from Keenan�s book about his harrowing experiences during five years of captivity, and will be distributed on the web by Optimum Releasing. It is also supported by Amnesty International, who are keen to highlight human rights issues on the net. The film�s producers, Andrew Kavanagh and Keith Foren, decided to use animation to best capture the horror of Keenan�s experience, his descent into madness and his conquering of it. Keenan himself explains "Animation has the power to create a heightened experience" and added that, when he saw the finished film he "was transported back to that place where� of sometimes angels fear to tread, animation can re-create." Optimum Releasing�s Will Clarke said "the opportunity to 'release' the film through a new medium of distribution globally was one that excited us tremendously". From An Evil Cradling will also be shown in cinemas with Joel Schumacher�s Flawless. You can see the film from 24 November at www.anevilcradling.co.uk. [Wonder how they will portray John McCarthy?]

And thanks Tracy for the news. Will do same. :-(

Having a gloriously self indulgent weekend. Am watching all my CF videos from earliest to most recent. But I'm getting bogged down in Lost Empires. Is it cheating to fast forward over all those stage acts? And would you recommend watching just the last 5 minutes of The Secret Garden? I have to get out of the house some time.;-) I'm sure Evelyn would recommend stopping after the first 10 minutes of The Turn of the Screw but I have a feeling I'm not going to make it that far.

(Heidi) And would you recommend watching just the last 5 minutes of The Secret Garden? No Heide, you must watch the first 10 minutes and watch Stephen Dillane (Captain Lennox) pass out with his face in a bowl of soup :-)

Heide, how did you get hold of "Lost Empires" *going green with envy*?

I taped The Secret Garden a couple of months ago only to be bitterly disappointed. Is there a different version from mine? There certainly wasn't any Colin (well - apart from the character) and the children didn't grow up.

(Gi) Is there a different version from mine? Yes, there are different versions. The one with Colin was made in the mid-late eighties, with the biggest star being Derek Jacobi. It was a Hallmark made for TV production. It is told in flashback style, with the opening scene being a grown-up Mary who returns to the garden. Then it flashes to the little girl Mary who is in India. Colin is in the last few minutes of the movie, when he returns as the grown-up "Colin" and is reunited with the grown-up Mary.

(Donna) you must watch the first 10 minutes and watch Stephen Dillane (Captain Lennox) pass out with his face in a bowl of soup :-) LOL, dear. Yes, for you I shall watch the first 10 minutes. Colin is in the last few minutes of the movie, when he returns as the grown-up "Colin" and is reunited with the grown-up Mary. And what an acting tour de force it is. ;-) Still we get to see him in yet another army uniform. Such a dashing look for our boy. Keep looking for that video, Gi.

I would like to know how to get a copy of Lost Empires too, Heidi.

All you in the UK, you've got your wish! DQ is finally scheduled for airing: Titanic heads BBC Christmas blitz Matt Wells, media correspondent Guardian Monday November 27, 2000 The BBC has spent millions to secure the blockbuster film Titanic for its Christmas schedule. Television industry sources believe it has agreed to pay up to �7m for the movie as the autumn ratings war with ITV reaches its peak. Titanic is likely to be screened on Christmas Day, regarded as a crucial time in the battle for viewers between BBC1 and ITV. The deal allows the BBC to screen the movie several times and spread the cost over more than one year's budget. The full amount would not be paid in one go - the BBC would have to make a payment for each time the film is shown. But the corporation's readiness to set aside such a large amount of money, even in principle, is the latest sign of its ratings-chasing strategy. BBC1 schedulers had previously planned to show Men in Black at Christmas, but were forced to bring it forward earlier in the autumn when Greg Dyke, director general, started the ratings war by moving the Nine O'Clock News to 10pm. The BBC will announce full details of its Christmas Day line-up next week, but released some advance details of its winter programmes yesterday. [...] Also on BBC1, Colin Firth returns to the screen five years after playing Mr Darcy in Pride and Prejudice. He stars in Donovan Quick, a drama about a mysterious stranger who transforms the lives of a dysfunctional family when he becomes their new lodger. There is also a Victoria Wood special, and Christmas editions of regular BBC series. ********* BTW, Titanic is on television right now. ;-)

The Times has pretty much the same press release info (verbatim); however, it calls the entire thing the Christmas season vs. winter schedule, ending with the following quote: �It�s a real BBC Christmas to revel in. You will not find a Christmas schedule of such range anywhere else,� Lorraine Heggessey, the BBC1 Controller, said. So you could see DQ around Christmas. :-) http://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/0,,42199,00.html

(Karen) So you could see DQ around Christmas. :-) I guess this is good news that DQ will be scheduled so soon. But I guess this means that Donna Franceschild won't get her wish for a theatrical distribution? Too bad. I wonder why the heck BBC stonewalled all of your requests for information about scheduling. Surely they don't plan the important Christmas schedule at the last minute on the back of a napkin, so why wouldn't they talk about it? Hmmm, there is something very odd here :-).

Yippee, Yippee, thanks Karen, but as Jana says very odd. I guess when DF said there was absolutely no chance of a theatrical release in the UK that we should have realised it would soon be on the TV, it is far too good to be dumped completely.

Very good news! Thanks Karen! I know there's far more kudos attached to a theatrical release, but.... TV in the UK can mean an audience of over 10 million (all these armchair viewers!) And DQ is a little cheaper than "Titanic"! also shows the Beeb still rate Colin...Christmas is traditionally the peak in the BBC sceduling.

This is interesting... BBC's own Entertainment News page has the story about its Christmas scheduling, leading off with the Titanic news, the dinosaur thing, Lorne Doone, and others...but no mention of Donovan Quick. http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/newsid_1042000/1042863.stm Hope this doesn't mean we're in for a roller coaster ride until the full schedule is announced later this week. Commence hand-wringing. I agree, Ann, DQ deserves better.

Nothing is ever simple, is it, however, it is mentioned on Ceefax, BBC's equivalent of Teletext, and the BBC had better not go back on it NOW!!

Hurrah, hurrah! It's also in tonight's Evening Standard, our prayers have been answered....but do we dare believe it until we see it listed in the Radio Times. Let's hope it's not relegated to 2a.m on BBC2 ;-)

Great news for our UK friends...DF must still have hopes of finding a distrib in the US. 1-800-Starz.

I'm very happy for you UK ladies who get to see DQ aired at last. (Heide)Keep looking for that video, Gi. Ha! And for SLOW, and MLSF, and RV, and... and... and... :-( Thanks for the info on Secret Garden, Donna. No, I've seen a different version unfortunately.

Things are getting almost too easy! MLSF seems to be readily available. All branches of Blockbusters have it, and another video store near where I work, very popular with students, has six copies. May not sound much,but for "small" movies, one or two copies is the norm. DQ is good news. If it had to be shown on TV, there's no doubt that Christmas is "the" time. TV programmes get massive coverage (TV mags, supplements, reviews etc), especially BBC/ITV (we've got a long way to go before we're universally multi-channeled). I wonder if the BBC will release a video of it? I'd like to see David Brown get a BAFTA supporting actor nomination. BTW, with all the rail chaos in the UK at the moment, largely brought on by the effects of underfunding/deregulation/privatisation, DQ is extremely topical! Re "Conspiracy". How long are HBO movies normally? Did HBO produce "The Sopranos" (which we get in the UK)? A lot of critics rate this as the best thing on TV at the moment.

HBO movies are typically 2 hours and, yes, The Sopranos is an HBO production.

and Bethan I would expect him to do some interviews in the Radio or TV Times, maybe some news about Conspiracy, you never know.

OK, shut your eyes... Here's the cover of the US Fever Pitch: Sorry I can't get a bigger one right now, but you get the horrid idea.

OK, shut your eyes... Here's the cover of the US Fever Pitch: Ug...grrrross. Who's their focus audience...the porn-people? They're gonna be mighty disappointed when they see Ruth Gemmel... Wonder if Blockbuster will stock it...they're not into that stuff...

When I checked last week at my Blockbusters, they're going to have it.

OK, I just saw the cover for Fever Pitch that Karen posted. It confirmed a suspicion I have held for quite a long time that the only explanation for an actor as talented and handsome as Colin Firth to be so relatively unknown, is that some evil force in the universe will not allow him to be the kind of star he deserves to be.

(KarenR)OK, shut your eyes... Here's the cover of the US Fever Pitch: Ugh...You mean shut your eyes and keep them shut... Who are these genius designers, one wonders? :-(

My, Ruth, what big . . .er . . .shoes you have!;-) This is what happens when morons like Phaedra are in charge. They are incredibly small time, and have no clout whatsoever over what the similarly moronic and small potatoes video distributor decided to do with this. I know this for a fact. Ugh. Don't even want to talk about it.:-( On a brighter note, am very happy to hear that DQ is getting an airing and at what sounds like a great time of year in terms of viewership. Bethan, I was thinking the same thing as you, that the railway topic is particularly relevant right now. Tracy, thanks for the Nick Hornby info on how CF came to write The Department of Nothing. I re-read the story over the weekend and just like it more and more each time I do. I'd put it in the top 5 stories in that book. Colin, you done good and certainly more than held your own!

(Janine) the only explanation for an actor as talented and handsome as Colin Firth to be so relatively unknown, is that some evil force in the universe will not allow him to be the kind of star he deserves to be. LOL! And the evil force this time is named Trimark Pictures! Since you can't read the print, Colin's name is over the title and below it says: "There's more than one way to score." Also, at the bottom right, it says, "From the creator of High Fidelity." With a cover like that, I'd want my name off of it. BTW the back of the vid has "normal" pics of the people in the film (cover people have disappeared). There's the bed shot, a football match crowd shot, one of Sarah riding the taxi during the celebration in front of Highbury and a chest upwards reverse shot of Colin and Ruth from the poster cover as the big pic. I can put them up if people want. (Gi) Who are these genius designers, one wonders? :-( See above. ;-)

Just found out we will be getting BBC-America channel in January '01. Not familiar with their fare at all. Is it possible that DQ would be shown on BBC-America (if indeed it is shown on BBC)?

I was wondering ...is this the time to blitz Masterpiece Theatre's Rebecca Easton..or whatever her name is, and request DQ for their Spring Schedule? Email address? Snail mail address?

No way could Masterpiece Theatre show DQ. They'd be bleeping out half the dialogue, not to mention the Clive scene. Even A&E or Bravo couldn't air it. This material could only be shown on a premium cable station like HBO, Showtime or similar. But that's just MHO. ;-)

I agree with you Karen. DQ is not Masterpiece Theatre material. Meredith, I am not crazy about BBC/America. It has been a let down. the only explanation for an actor as talented and handsome as Colin Firth to be so relatively unknown, is that some evil force in the universe will not allow him to be the kind of star he deserves to be. LOL, Janine. Colin needs a publicist, NOW! If the evil forces are against him, the least he could do is battle them. It is a shame about the FP cover.

DQ on UK TV: BBC1 on 28 December at 9pm.

Thanks Echo, will have video at the ready. A Thursday, I guess that is quite good probably follows Eastenders!

DQ on UK TV: BBC1 on 28 December at 9pm.

Oops.

Lookie, lookie, our Echo is back! Still having problems with those duplicate posts, Ara--er, Echo? :-P LMAO about that FP cover *wiping tears*. How blatantly ;-) misleading can you get? Those 12-year old boys will be mighty disappointed when they watch the video! (Janine) I just saw the cover for Fever Pitch that Karen posted...the only explanation for an actor as talented and handsome as Colin Firth to be so relatively unknown, is that some evil force in the universe will not allow him to be the kind of star he deserves to be. Methinks the evil forces are focused on Ruth Gemmel here. Wonder if she's seen this thing? I second Moon's opinion about BBC-America, Meredith. They show mostly half-hour sitcoms. Am glad to hear the Beeb has deigned to air DQ (it appears Bethan was given correct information after all!). Hope they promo it as heavily as ITV promoted TTOTS last Christmas--at least this year British Firth fans will get more than 2 minutes and paste-on sideburns.

Re DQ : Things are looking up, and there was me thinking that they'd put it on at 2 in the morning on BBC2 (or even worse BBC Choice). Nine o'clock - Prime Time!!! O me of little faith.

Re DQ....Thanks Echo! The Express had a Christmas TV exclusive...DQ was down for the 28th 9pm as mentioned by Echo, but there was just a blank following...no description. But elsewhere there was a reference to the fact that DQ might be the BBC's secret weapon as the BBC were keeping it under wraps ( although mentioned that CF was starring). I think it could have been a last minute decision. I think the timing (just after Xmas) is good. DQ wasn't designed as an all-star Xmas special (nor indeed was TOTS last year) and I don't think it would sit well with the usual cheesy (and very expensive)"celebrity" stuff that's made specially for Xmas/Boxing Day (Ross Kemp as Scrooge...aargh!!) They're using CF's name... again. In some ways I think it's more BBC2 because of the subject matter and realism (in one or two scenes). Re FP. What a gross cover! I remember trying (and failing) to find SLOW in Blockbusters. When I asked, I was directed to Adult movies, and there it was, sandwiched between Miss Whiplash and Confessions of a Nymphomaniac!! I pointed out that it had a 12 rating...but they didn't move it!!! Haven't seen any reviews of Speaking with the Angel, although I don't read many papers these days. But it's prominently dissplayed in Waterstones and I remember being told that there were 80 copies (a lot!) coming in. I think it will catch the browsers and the Christmas market.

Lookie, lookie, our Echo... ? ... is back! ?? having problems with those duplicate posts Not enough practice, evidently. Ara--er Some sort of a swearword, I guess? Thanks Echo! That's better. (My pleasure.)

Some sort of a swearword, I guess? If you say so. I never could understand your sense of humor. :-D (When I asked, I was directed to Adult movies, and there it was, sandwiched between Miss Whiplash and Confessions of a Nymphomaniac!! I pointed out that it had a 12 rating...but they didn't move it!!! Too funny, Bethan. Must've been those tomatoes!

RE FP cover...agree with sentiments so far..yu begin to wonder whether the "artists" actually take time out to see the films or at the very least read the briefs! On SWTA - Have just noticed Radio 4 (for UK Firthians) have the book featured as this week's Book at Bedtime, have checked the Radio Times though and it looks like they're only broadcasting a selection e.g. tonights is PMQ (10.45pm). Anyone seen next week's RT, perhaps they'll get round to Department of Nothing. And finally.....have just taken delivery of my brand spanking new P&P DVD, and have had lots of fun, replaying all my favourite scenes, and to think - no danger of the tape wearing out this time. Watched "The Making of.." but it seeis a lot shorter than I remember (from when it was originally broadcast on TV and I'm sure that ODB was interviewed). SB says some nice things about him though and the oft retold tale, of how he didn't really dive into the pond, is covered. We get a peek at "Elvis" - who is doing his utmost to look mean and moody and Darcy-esque in his director's chair but the wrap-round shades and sandwich-munching rather spoil the illusion (meanwhile our hero sits under a parasol in quiet contemplation).

I have mine too Tracy, it's supposed to be a Christmas present, haven't looked at it yet and yes Colin was intervied in the original "Making of", he was sitting down and was in costume. There is a nice review of the P&P DVD on Ceeefax, says it is far better picture than the original BBC series and even if you already have the video it is a must-see.

[I thought he was standing up, but if I start pointing to various differences, they will think I'm argumentative. So better not.]

nope, if I remember he was definitely sitting down,looked like his dressing room, and he was sort of sitting sidways.

Nope, I think he was standing with his back to something like a period dressing table mirror with no trace of any make up except on his face. But I'll go and check it again. Stand by for a further report (if it's of any interest at all, that is.) Too late: I'm definitely much too stubborn for my own good

(Tracy) "Elvis" - who is doing his utmost to look mean and moody and Darcy-esque in his director's chair but the wrap-round shades and sandwich-munching rather spoil the illusion... Hee hee! The P&P2 DVD sounds good--I'm afraid the quality of my vids decreases every time I watch (I keep hitting the tracking button on my VCR remote but nothing happens; maybe it's opening my neighbor's garage door instead). Hmm, might add DVD to my christmas list...lack of DVD player may be a bit of a problem, though. :-D

Is this DVD different from the earlier one sold (which did not have any add-ons)? Is the DVD you are discussing available for playing in the US also (whatever region it is)?

This DVD is for UK/Europe only and also has "The Making of P&P" as an extra, it was released on the 27th November, and is doing very well, I believe.

So - I've checked and rechecked and asked for a second, relatively unbiased opinion. The result is this: during the short interview in the original version of "The Making of P&P", Colin appears to be standing with his back (slightly at an angle) to a large mirror inside one of the period rooms on location. He seems to be leaning slightly on whatever is in front of the mirror - probably a dressing table - which is not visible. His right arm is close by his side and he appears to support himself on it against the table and his left arm is clearly bending at the elbow, suggesting hand on waist or hip. Once or twice he moves his left hand to gesticulate. The above is entered here in the interest of Firtho-scientific research, you understand.

Thanks Ann & Echo for confirming my suspicions. Humph, am now overcome by sense of being diddled out of lovely interview. New version includes only cast interviews of AS and DB (David Bamber not ODB, all v. confusing). Why did it take the Beeb so long to release it in this format? Silly question - don't bother answering that, Lord only knows how their minds work!

Thanks Echo, I am sooo glad that that is cleared up, in the interests of Firtho-scientific research, of course!

My P&P DVD is currently somewhere between England and Belgium, in some post office....I can't wait till I find it in my mailbox:-)

(Tracy is) overcome by sense of being diddled out of lovely interview. New version includes only cast interviews of AS and DB (David Bamber not ODB, all v. confusing). A more complete set of these mini-interviews - in which major members of the P&P cast talk about the characters (and not about themselves) - is to be found on The Perspectives On P&P - a (largely boring, unless you're heavily into Jane Austen) BBC Education video made for schools as a teaching help. A few of these interviews were incorporated in the short documentary - the aforementioned From Page To Screen - which was shown on BBC TV. Why was DB included in the DVD version, and not Colin? Hm... Maybe it required his permission and he refused? It's not inconceivable... Tracy - all is not lost. Some of the Firtho-scientists all over the world own copies of these videos and may even be able (and willing?) to share.

(Bethan) I remember trying (and failing) to find SLOW in Blockbusters. When I asked, I was directed to Adult movies, and there it was, sandwiched between Miss Whiplash and Confessions of a Nymphomaniac!! I had rather my local Blockbusters had it in the Adult shelf than not have it at all... But I admit I haven't checked there, so maybe there's hope yet! ;-)

Terry has posted a message on Topic #100..Spring Pledge Drive. Message #81. Spring is now accepting donations via Pay Pal. http://www.spring.net/paypal Great news for the Firthfans in UK and Europe who were unable to donate in Sept./Oct. Thanks Terry:-))

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH(LONDON) December 02, 2000, Saturday HEADLINE: Connections in the Hornby set Melissa Denes finds some fine stories and some odd ones in a good work BYLINE: By Melissa Denes When Nick Hornby begins his introduction to this collection of short stories for charity by saying that he was inspired by the good example of Bono, the heart sinks. The last thing one wants from Nick Hornby and the other writers assembled here (including Helen Fielding, Zadie Smith, Melissa Bank) is a lecture. Bono's efforts have been on the global scale, but Hornby's are more local: for every copy of Speaking with the Angel sold, he explains, pounds 1 will go to TreeHouse, a London trust for severely autistic children, of whom his son Danny is one. Fortunately, Hornby has charm, and he says his piece - a short, moving essay about the "mixture of exhaustion and depression and panic" felt by the parents of autistic children - without seeming to do so. And though he claims to lack the influence of an international rock star, he is perhaps uniquely well-connected in British literary circles - among the writers included here are Hornby's brother-in-law (Robert Harris), an old school friend (John O'Farrell) and the actor who played Hornby in Fever Pitch (Colin Firth). The collection, which consists of 12 monologues, has no organising theme but is characterised by a lightness of touch. Giles Smith's "Last Requests" is a gently funny meditation on mortality and mince from a Death Row dinner lady: Thai-style dipping sauce: that was an odd one. I think he was mucking me about, to be honest. In the end I sent out the Thousand Island. Helen Fielding's "Luckybitch" is good, too - a fighting monologue from "the former Grace Kelly of Hampshire", now reduced to hitting the panic button from the bathroom floor of her nursing home. In her youth, Lucky made love to Matisse, Sinatra, Hemingway; now she decries the way her daughter is tormenting her boyfriend with all her talk of commitment. "What's the point of marching the poor boy round Sainsbury's in a filthy mood when you could be sliding your toe up his thigh in the Caprice?" Nick Hornby and Roddy Doyle stick to familiar terrain, the male midlife crisis. Colin Firth, Patrick Marber and Zadie Smith all write about male adolescence, with varying degrees of success. Firth's "The Department of Nothing" strikes just the right note of boyish swagger (the narrator's parents are forever "going postal" and "mental"; his older brother is, like, "blatantly pants"). Patrick Marber's "Peter Shelley" is a sweet and authentically visceral tale about first love and first sex. Zadie Smith's account of a meeting between a boy's best friend and his older sister is disappointing. In this breezy, good-humoured whole there are only two misfits - Dave Eggers's dark and rather brilliant "After I Was Thrown in the River and Before I Drowned" and Irvine Welsh's singularly nasty "Catholic Guilt". Eggers's story is about the life and death of a very fast dog - "I go and go and go my name is Steven." Welsh's story about a violent hater of homosexuals condemned to rape his male friends in the afterlife is notable only for its lack of imagination. Presumably Welsh wants to make some point about the nastiness of this prejudice, but in doing so he gives us far more about the nastiness of homosexuals. No doubt Hornby could have found a better writer in his little black book, but few so bankable - and in this case it's the profits that count.