On another subject, last night after Dubya made his speech and I didn't want to hear anymore talking heads commenting on it, I flipped the channels and came upon a PBS show entitled, Holocaust on Trial. It was a rerun, but was about a libel case in England, involving British historian and Holocaust denier named David Irving. In the trial reenactments, Irving was played by John Castle (Lost Empires). I missed the beginning, but they showed Wannsee and talked about the conference. There were photos of the attendees on the wall. If you want to read about it, go to Nova's website and check your local PBS schedule to see if it is being rerun in your area: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/holocaust/ [also click on the Director's Story]

(Donna) I could seduce Neil Truelove in a NY minute. :-) But Romelia couldn't. We'd try harder though. *hee hee*

About the shirt: OK.. "Wrong again, evelyn..." That shirt made the first public appearance at a publicity photo shoot in 1994.

(Gi) Why would he want to do those, after Fever Pitch? Not a great success, nor even a great movie... I really like the Hornby books/film adaptations, but I realize they're not everyone's cuppa (though I think CF likes them). What sort of roles do you think he was talking about when he said that many of the things he'd like to do are the preserve of the studios? Maybe the Ralph Fiennes-type roles, or something else? (Evelyn) The PRO -CAMILLE TEAM, so far.... Cough, cough, hack, sputter, gasp, cough . . .er, just doing my Marguerite impression.;-) Sorry, Ev, I'm more of an "anti," but actually don't feel strongly about it. I've seen worse.;-)

(Gi) Why would he want to do those, after Fever Pitch? Not a great success, nor even a great movie... Let's be fair, there aren't that many *great* movies. ;-) BTW, word has it that High Fidelity could get a screenplay adaptation nom for Johnnie & Co. The critics loved the movie and many admired the way it was brought to the screen. Since only members of the writing branch nominate and vote, could be. (Mari) Maybe the Ralph Fiennes-type roles, or something else? A given IMO. You know, if those scripts don't have his name on them, maybe he needs a new agent. ;-)

You know, if those scripts don't have his name on them, maybe he needs a new agent. ;-) Our favourite subject. The last time we tried sending our telepathic thoughts did not work. Even Christabel would agree. ;-)

(Karen) In the trial reenactments, Irving was played by John Castle (Lost Empires.) LOL...just been thinking about him. So what does Uncle Nick look like now? But to fall for a producer, someone in the business, wasn't that a bit . . . er . . . incestuous? OK, we know her profession now but wasn't she a producer's assistant at that time? In other words, a go-fer? On a par with make-up artist and at least they win awards. Wot!? Me jealous? ;-) I am not a frustrated actor. Yeah! Validation does feel good, Eileen. Yet here sits an actor who doesn't read his reviews : he measures them. I wonder too, Mari, what this means. Nothing else in the article seems to give a clue. Gavin surely can't mean that he ranks them. Perish the thought. (Lynda) Won't it be something when the word "Darcy" doesn't appear in the title of an article? Oh I agree, Lynda. Though if Mark Darcy is the name that knocks Mr. Darcy off, I won't mind.

Irving was played by John Castle (Lost Empires.) Wasn't he Ben's buddie? who doesn't read his reviews : he measures them. (Heide)I wonder too, Mari, what this means. Nothing else in the article seems to give a clue One of the definitions in my dictionary "Measures:an adequate or due portion, a quantity, a fixed or suitable limit." You can say that again...one interview every six months if we're lucky.

Have just watched MLSF on video, thankyou Bethan for persuading me to do so. I am grateful for two reason one is that I preferred it on the small screen, funnily it seems to suit the small screen better, and secondly I think I got to see the American version, where CF & MEM are dancing in the rain and it ends with Edward looking in on Fraser as he listens to Jazz , smokes a cigar!!etc, a lovely scene. Wonder if I could buy this version. BTW Evelyn, there is one scene where RH is sitting up in bed with her hair down and her hand over her mouth, just after Frazier has checked if she is still alive, where she looked the spitting image of Jennifer or should it be the other way round.

Frazier, duh!

Here's John Castle as David Irving: If you go to this page, you can see video clip of him. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/holocaust/making.html (Evelyn) Wasn't he Ben's buddie? Friend of the family, as I recall, from school. (Ann) I think I got to see the American version, where CF & MEM are dancing in the rain and it ends with Edward looking in on Fraser as he listens to Jazz How very odd! Why would they put the American version on rental in your country? Perhaps, someone decided it was the better version. ;-) (Ann) Frazier, duh! No, you were correct the first time. It was Fraser.

No I said Fraser the first time, the second time I wrote Frazier, wonder why. Incidentally, I have just been to the IMDB for BJD, (wrong topic, oh well,), and they confirm that the USA release date is the 6th April. Netherlands and Sweden 12 &13th April respectively, nothing so far for the UK.

Just managed to return to the Herald interview again. Fascinating. Interesting that one of his grandfathers was a doctor as well as being ordained. He ceratinly comes from very worthy genes! I wonder if this would be his mother's father? There are a couple of very well-written articles by Colin's mother on creating a healing environment in hospitals -"The Hospital as Temple"- at http://www.geneeswijzen.net/hspaat/hosp97.html http://www.geneeswijzen.net/hspaat/hosp95.html Certainly, well worth reading. She writes about Dr Patch Adams, one of the speakers at the conference, and comments on the irony that he desperately needs $20million to carry out his work in hospitals, whilst Robin Williams is being paid $16million to play him in a Hollywood movie. She's currently on the staff at Reading University, teaching an MA course. She also, with her husband, is on the Committee for the Association for Marriage Enrichment, a charity (and offshoot of the Marriage Guidance Council) dedicated to helping couples improve and build a loving relationship within marriage. You can see why CF is a decent sort of man! Good genes! Glad you like MLSF Ann. Watch it again!!

Will do Bethan, have got it until tomorrow night!! BTW was the "dancing in the rain" scene on your copy you rented. Also I have been dying to hear what you thought of the latest Colin (Mark Darcy) photo, which Karen posted recently, together with others, on the BJD topic, the one where he is wearing a polo neck jumper and standing very close to Renee. (lucky girl). Have you seen it yet? It can also be found on Karen's Bucket site. They are new photos.

Sunday Times has written up DQ as its Critics Choice for 12/28: Donovan Quick (BBC1, 9pm) One of the most underrated dramas of recent years was Donna Franceschild's Taking Over the Asylum. For Donovan Quick, she has updated Cervantes's Don Quixote and set it in Glasgow, resulting in a cracking drama. Quick (Colin Firth, appearing for the first time on television since The Turn of the Screw) is a well-spoken mystery man, who takes a room with the dysfunctional Pannick family. When the local train service - Windmill Transport, naturally - fails to stop at the station where the Pannick son with learning disabilities (David Brown, who has the same problems) waits, Quick sets himself up against the great wheels of the establishment, and starts a rival one-bus company. Since this must have been in production before the current transport crisis, those involved must be the only people for whom the current train-service horrors are fortuitous: the public will always relate to a romantic dream, but this will have thousands of commuters cheering and punching the air. The real star, however, is Quick: spiritual, strange, otherworldly and madly sane, he appears blind to the Pannicks' flaws, which include one alcoholic, one car thief, and one grandmother (Liz Smith) who walks around naked. http://www.sunday-times.co.uk/news/pages/sti/2000/12/17/sticultvv03017.html

BTW was the "dancing in the rain" scene on your copy you rented. Also I have been dying to hear what you thought of the latest Colin (Mark Darcy) photo, which Karen posted recently, together with others, on the BJD topic, the one where he is wearing a polo neck jumper and standing very close to Renee. (lucky girl) Very yummy, Ann! I'm really hoping CF gets some Hollywood recognition (an absolute must) for BJD and that doors start opening. There's a review of the MLSF video in the Sunday Telegraph. "Based on Sir Denis Forman's account of his Scottish childhood, Hugh Hudson's come-back picture is a coming of age saga set in the 1920's. Tasty, if a touch whimsical, and strongly cast (Malcolm McDowell, Mary Elizabeth Mastantonio and Irene Jacob). Hello there, anyone missing?!!! Can it be deliberate?!! I had the "dancing in the rain" video. I thought the packaging wasn't very good... most videos have rave reviews on the front.... "Superb, stunning performances, xxxxx is brilliant!" etc. MLSF just has "from the makers of "Chariots of fire" (like, that was well over 20 years ago!) Also it has no pics of CF on the back, and on the side it has a photo of MEM. Nitpicking, I know, but....

Thanks Karen for review ...of all the pics of DQ why in the world did they choose that one? No v. flattering, IMO. Wonder why they chose the US ending to MLSF in the UK?

Surfing arounf, found these CF news items from a British biased movie news site...reelscreen.com News dates back about six months. All the other items I saw seemed pretty kosher and accurate. Hiking to Hollywood... the big screen adaptation of 'The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy' is back on track - again. The script, adapted by Douglas Adams from his own cult novel, has been through numerous re-writes, the Americans never quite sure what to make of hero Arthur Dent's uniquely British brand of tea-pot humour. No word yet on casting but you can safely say Colin Firth's name is doing the rounds (This is a terrific project...the cult novel to end all cult novels. Has fanatical worldwide following. See amazon.com. But will not (remember "Armadillo"!) believe anything until shooting starts, and not even then! Carry on Doctor... Colin Firth is the latest name to be connected with BBC boss Greg Dyke's inspired British "blockbuster" version of 'Dr Who'. Budgeted at �15 million the film is set to be directed by Russell Mulcahy ('Highlander'). Final casting decisions are due to be nnounced in July, with shooting set to begin in autumn. (No casting has been announced yet. Seems to be the BBC's Big Project) Colin hits roof... the ever gallant Colin Firth has leapt to the defence of his 'Bridget Jones' co-star Ren�e Zellweger over the decision to cast her (an American) in what many see as a definitively British role. Firth settled the argument with the fairly valid point that "If we all played only that which we are, all films would be made about a bunch of luvvies, sitting in green rooms gossiping about their agents and billing". Kenneth Branagh take note...

Thanks Bethan, re Carry on Doctor - is that casting to be announced July 2001?

the big screen adaptation of 'The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy' Wonderful book and a brilliant radio adaptation read by Peter Jones who had just the right voice. I always worry about these very imaginative pieces being portrayed on screen. Like Lord of the Rings or Gormenghast they are such tour de forces of the imagination. 'Dr Who'. Oh save us! BBC and Dr Who. Can't think of anything worse. Great sleuthing though, Bethan.

Slightly behind everyone else I know (but hey what's new) - I finally got to see MLSF having rented it from my local Blockbusters, who had two copies BTW. I agree Ann, it is certrainly a grower, having taken advantage of my two-night rental, I've watched it a few times now and you see different nuances creeping in each time. Loved the lovely dancing in the rain bit and particularly the swathe of emotions which pass over Edward's face on discovering Fraser in the secret library. Beautiful scenery and score. Must get as a keepsie!

(Allison) Oh save us! BBC and Dr Who. Can't think of anything worse. Colin's named bandied about for the forthcoming Planet of the Apes remake??? ;-) (Tracy) Must get as a keepsie! Am virtually reeling at all these about-faces. (btw, since you can play NTSC, take advantage of all the ultra cheap previously vieweds available)

Hi friends... ...have been lurking for a while(in the middle of my PhD quals.). But, I had dinner with a college friend last night. Anyway, she's an "insider" in the biz, and told me that not too long ago, Colin was seriously on the negotiating table for a film about the black plague. He was to be in the title role, but scheduling problems forced him not to commit. Anyone know about this? The film (still in pre-production) had the word "alley" in the title. Sorry if this is old news. I just thought of everyone here when my friend mentioned Colin's name (...inward squeal of delight, surpressed by the somberness of the restaurant and my friend's indifference to ODB). BTW, happy holidays to you all! I've missed you!

From the TV Times "It's very interesting", Colin Firth remarks, "how one gets interpreted as belonging to a particular period in English history. People seem to think I'm a very rich man with a mansion in Derbyshire who rides a horse and lived 200 years ago". Instead, Colin lives in Isling and drives a C-reg Nissan Cherry. Even so, in his post-Darcy P&P days it's hard to imagine Colin in a modern-day drams. One like DQ, for example. Colin is the Donovan of the title - a mysterious lodger in present day Glasgow who transforms the life of a dysfunctional family. We meet Lucy Pannick, the alcoholic head of the family. Then there's her son Jim, who steals cars. And there's Gran who wanders around the house half-naked. And finally, Sandy, Lucy's good-natured but mentally impaired younger brother. Donovan walks into this strange household and immediately things start to change for the better. But Donovan's certainly not all he seems. "To be honest, I didn't have a clue how to play him", says Colin. "Is he mad or is he sane? Is this a flight of sanity or a flight of lunacy? I don't know..." Small pic DQ sitting on bed. Further review from TV Times The star billing of Colin Firth should be enough to get the ladies tuning in, but we reckon this drama warrants a wider audience than just fans of Mr Darcy. As always, Firth is compelling as the title character, a quiet mystery man who descends upon a Scottish town where the HQ of a big transport business is located; one of those companies that outrages locals by cancelling services willy-nilly. Donovan takes a stand, makes friends with the ragtag Pannick family and, via flashbacks, it becomes clear what Donovan's motive is. This tale, about a search for atonement, unfolds nicely and is sweetly touching. Pic of DQ and Sandy on the station platform.

Thanks, Aishling. I wonder if Colin is disappointed that DQ did not have a theatrical release as DF was expecting. He seems to be the BBC Santa Claus of the Xmas season in Britain, expect to see him then always. Which is not a bad thing. ;-) He was to be in the title role, but scheduling problems forced him not to commit. Thanks, Winter! Some actors go from film to film. Colin gets film offers that always seem to conflict with other ones. And still, we only get one film a year from him. :-( Too bad he is not in the, "We will wait for you" league, as Cruise and Hanks are. I do not know about any film about the plague. The last one I saw which included that subject was, "The Horseman on the Roof". Alas, no site of Colin.

(Winter) Colin was seriously on the negotiating table for a film about the black plague. He was to be in the title role Was going to say Hour of the Pig 2, but he couldn't do the title role. ;-) Wonder what it was? Thanks, Winter. Thanks for the typing up the articles, Aishling. Knew I could count on you. :-) Like how TV Times called it a "search for atonement."

So he has missed out on two projects, hope there is some very good reason, like a "ONCE IN A LIFETIME" project.

Thanks Aishling for taking the time to type the articles . (Allison) Oh save us! BBC and Dr Who. Can't think of anything worse. (Karen)Colin's named bandied about for the forthcoming Planet of the Apes remake??? ;-) Or now that Brendan Frasier is scheduled for the West End....perhaps ODB is in line for "George of the Jungle , II";-)

DQ gets 4stars in HEAT magazine and is "Pick of the Day" and No.14 of the Best programmes to watch over the entire Christmas & New Year period. The only thing I don't agree with is the last sentence of the review "This may be an interesting and timely, albeit rather worthy,film but it has too many gringeworty moments to be truly inspiring, 4 stars (even so (my words)).

Colin was seriously on the negotiating table for a film about the black plague. I wouldn't mourn the loss of this one, folks. Sounds to me like we dodged a bullet.;-) Good to hear from you, Winter! Many thanks to Aishling, Ann, and anyone else I've forgotten for the DQ reviews. These are good reviews indeed, and well-deserved.

Hi there Winter! One thing that struck me about Winter's news is that at least CF is being considered (presumably) for leads in Hollywood backed movies, as opposed to 4th billing in shoestring Brit films. Also if the film's in pre-production, his scheduling commitments must be in the future, so maybe he *has* got something else lined up! Found some more info on ""A Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy". Hollywood Pictures (offshoot of Disney) president David Vogel purchased the screen rights. Jay Roach ("Austin Powers") is to direct and co-author the screenplay (based on a draft by Douglas Adams) with producer Roger Birnbaum. Budget is $110 million. Jim Carrey was originally considered for the lead but was too expensive. (Although I don't think he's exactly the most appropriate choice to play a mild-mannered 30 something Englishman in search of the perfect cup of tea!). Vogel said that he'd been keen to do this for a long time because it was so funny, but the fantasy posed problems, but now they have the technology to represent the fantasy. Well, we shall have to wait and see, and for once I'm keeping my enthusiasm completely and utterly under wraps! Shall say no more. But could this be that journey/adventure of a lifetime, Ann?! (Allison) Oh save us! BBC and Dr Who. Can't think of anything worse. Completely agree. But Greg Dyke seems to think this is the greatest idea since sliced bread. This is their Big Movie to end all Big Movies. DQ gets 4stars in HEAT magazine and is "Pick of the Day" (Ann) Quite liked the opening comments in this, Ann. Something about it's no wonder that this project appealed to a thesp of such standing as Colin Fith. Then goes on to say that fortunately Firthy doesn't have to adopt a Glaswegian accent. I always think that when the press start mucking around with your surname...Becks, Macca, Giggsy et al, it means you've really arrived...I'm not sure where!!

Fith! O-ooops!!

Found this, using my super-duper Search Engine about unmade movie scripts. Sounds like Winter's movie. He said "no"? Hmmmm....sounds rather good. The title I have in mind is Walter Brown Newman's HARROW ALLEY*, a truly remarkable epic with wonderful characters, hilarious dialogue, and absorbing drama, about great and universal ideas yet accessible at an intimate level. In short, the 'the greatest script I have ever read'. So why has it never become a movie? Apparently written in the early 60's and optioned again and again by parties unable to launch it(John Huston, George C. Scott), HARROW ALLEY is what is known as a 'tough sell'. I neglected to mention that it takes place in the 1700's, deals with the black plague, and most of the characters meet cruelly awful fates. It also needs an epic budget. Reading HARROW ALLEY is a thrill because one can't help but mentally cast one's own actors and director as the imagination kicks in. This is a trap, of course, because if the film were to be produced, it would obviously resemble the director's personal vision, and not mine. Right now HARROW ALLEY remains untouched and perfect, and not an actual, imp rfectly realized movie.

Another rave for Harrow Alley, "Serious Oscar material" . So, what scheduling problems? Can't they be sorted? Coming Not So Soon: Harrow Alley I sought out this screenplay simply because it was listed as one of the best unproduced screenplays ever written in a recent issue of Premiere. This caught my attention. Alumni of such lists have included everything from Jacob's Ladder to Airplane! and I figured I was in for something else. I didn't get something else (see the script review below for that one) but I did get something grand. And it doesn't sound grand in pitch mode--hear for yourself--put yourself in Studio Exec Mode (start thinking about how The Avengers and Batman and Robin were really great films) and then have someone say this aloud to you: "It's a portrait of London in the grip of the bubonic plague during the 18th Century." WHOA! You just greenlighted it, didn't you? Oh boy, you just fell over in your chair and said, "Whoopydee doo! It's a tentpole summer blockbuster! We gotta hurry before Universal greenlights their project about an outbreak of ringworm in 14th Century China!" No of course you didn't. You said, "Hell no. Nobody wants a movie with that much death in it, with those black whatchamacallits on people's skins and no happy ending. Where heroes and villains and inbetweeners all shift roles around like...you know, like real life! Not to mention the budget you would need to do one of those period pieces. Gross. Gnarly. Get out of my office. We've got to work on the new Yahoo Serious movie." Of course bearing in mind that in the real world, which you and I inhabit but not movie studio execs who live in Hypertime, moviegoers are so starved for anything they'll watch even a decent movie like The Sixth Sense to death, you're absolutely wrong. People want different movies. They want things that aren't cookie cutter. If they wanted cookie cutter films they'd stay home and watch USA Network original fare. But I'm ranting. I should be reviewing this script. Or both. Something. The story has several characters--an alderman and his young wife, their neighbors and good friends, a convicted felon sentenced to die who is pulled off the gallows (literally) to collect corpses, a local doctor, a street preacher--all of these people's lives are turned inside out by the outbreak. The government deserts, the people infected are boarded up in their houses to die, and loyalties are absolutely destroyed. I know, it doesn't sound very cheery--it's not. But it has a point to make, several in fact, and it does so marvelously. Also, let me tell you this. Whoever does grow the cojones to make this sucker a reality will be looking at serious Oscar material. No, it won't make a lot of people happy. No, it's not a happy movie about springtime and flowers and crap like that. I would group this in with--dare I say it? (dare dare)--American Beauty. Like AB, it's a complex masterpiece that although not necessarily happy, is extremely uplifting when you look at it the right way. It doesn't have an abundance of morbid hilarity like AB (although it has some really dark humor in it if played correctly)--it's just a great piece with multiple characters and multiple storylines. It's like--it's like a Robert Altman Merchant-Ivory film but completely different. But take heart, this script has staying power. It was written in the 1960's by a gentleman by the name of Walter Brown Newman, and it's simply too good NOT to be made.

Bethan, good sleuthing! "Harrow Alley" That's it! My pal has said that the script is constantly changing hands, but they (her production co.) are obviously at a point where actors names are being kicked around. My friend (who works for the same production co. that did the Emma Thompson version of S&S) said they had been courting ODB around the same time those floods were going on in London. A few months ago, right?

Well it sure sounds good,but I am NOT buying the book;-)

Well it sure sounds good,but I am NOT buying the book;-) LOL! We've got a copy of the Hitchhiker trilogy (which is actually 4 volumes) and even if the role goes to a Hollywood megastar, I'd still recommend it as a terrific read, up there with Harry Potter. Although if you read about an unassuming Englisnman, who supports good causes, works for the BBC, does the Guardian crossword, and shops in Islington, you don't automatically think Jim Carrey! I like Volume 4 when Arthur returns home and falls in love (it's not all scifi!!) Also (and I sound as though I'm showing off, sorry!) we've got a copy of Daniel Defoe's "Journal of the Plague Year" ..which I guess could be a source for Harrow Alley (Defoe's house overlooks Harrow Alley) It's a graphic read...but would would you want to see the horrors?

Bethan, good sleuthing! Agreed! Winter those floods in Nov. were not too long ago. If Colin did not accept what seems to be a great script, I hope he has a very good reason. Especially since the film would most likely be filmed in England.

if you read about an unassuming Englisnman, who supports good causes, works for the BBC, does the Guardian crossword, and shops in Islington, you don't automatically think Jim Carrey! Erm... Depends who *you* are... ;-) Daniel Defoe's "Journal of the Plague Year" ..which I guess could be a source for Harrow Alley (Defoe's house overlooks Harrow Alley) Bingo! Bethan, you're brill.

I've put up last week's Herald article, complete with the pics: http://www.spring.net/karenr/articles/herald120900.html Aishling, is that the same one of DQ on the bed? Wish he hadn't scowled. :-(

Apparently, Colin is a patron for a theatre company for disabled and nondisabled young children, based in Dorset. It's called "Out of the Blue." Check it out: http://www.outofthebluetheatre.btinternet.co.uk/colfirth.html

Terrific job,boss.I see he made the front cover of the weekly magazine! But I don't remember him in that pose on the bed. When did that occur in DQ? Nice pic with Jennifer..but I don't remember that dress having a lavender top... ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Generous of him to give his time to that children's theatre in Dorset. Wonder what he does. Patrons usually are major donors and assist in fundraising. At least in the US.

The pose on the bed looks to be just a publicity shot. But who would use one like that?! The scowl? That's why we keep seeing the one where he leans out the window on everything. (Evelyn) Wonder what he does. LOL! Isn't that we we do every day? ;-) Maybe he volunteers some time there. Check out the About Us page: http://www.outofthebluetheatre.btinternet.co.uk/workshop.html And if you make a �10.00 contribution, you can get a newsletter!

Karen - is that the same one of DQ on the bed? Yes it is. I didn't remember that pose either.

New article, again from James Rampton of The Scotsman, sent to me by Janet: A victim of kind and prejudice James Rampton It was a case of "don't mention the D-word". I had been warned in the strongest possible terms before my interview with Colin Firth that it would be inadvisable to bring up the ticklish subject of his most famous role as Mr Darcy, the smouldering hero who caused such a mass outbreak of national hysteria when he appeared in BBC1's production of Pride and Prejudice in 1995. So it was with some trepidation that I went for supper with Firth at a smart Japanese restaurant in Glasgow. No doubt, I said to myself, he is going to be Darcy Revisited: stern, harsh and distinctly unsmiling. He might even reprimand me for the vulgarity of my manners. But in the event, I needn't have worried. Firth is perfectly happy to discuss all aspects of the character that dare not speak his name. The actor even - shock, horror - possesses a keen sense of absurdity. A relaxed presence with a black zip-up top and slightly dishevelled hair, he is certainly not afraid of taking the mick out of himself. "The British in general are brilliant at laughing at themselves and their country," he says, "and there' nothing more pleasing in a person. Starting with yourself is the root of all humour. "When I've been in comedies, I'e tended to be the butt of the joke. In Shakespeare in Love, my function was to be the one guy who lacks poetry, romance and humour - all the things that the film celebrates. It's an important comic function, and having a sense of one's own ridiculousness is something that keeps me sane." As an example, he goes on to reveal that his friends had a great time at his expense over his horse-riding exploits in Pride and Prejudice: "Oh, they laughed themselves to death. And they continue to. The contrasts to that character are quite extreme if you see me daily over breakfast." In fact, the only thing that still unnerves Firth about the Pride and Prejudice experience is the memory of the "Darcy Mania" that gripped the nation for a while. The ballyhoo only become more intense when the brooding aristocrat - in a now immortal scene from TV history - came out of a lake wearing a sodden white shirt. "I'd been doing this job for quite a number of years and things had never gone potty like that before," Firth says. "I was delighted, but nervous. What could I say in response to it other than a rather limp 'gosh'? And how could I answer questions such as: 'What's it like to be a heart-throb?' 'Well, I wake up and have a full heartthrob breakfast. Then I walk down the street making hearts throb all over the place'." He was also perplexed that people always expected him to look like an Adonis off-screen. "Until I played that part, I was never aware of disappointing anyone with my presence. In 35 years, I had never previously seen anyone's face fall when they met me face-to-face. If anything, that's the answer to the question, 'what's it like to be a heart-throb?' You're a walking disappointment. There is absolutely no possibility of living up to a character who has that kind of grandeur." Firth has found the sex-symbol stereotype restrictive in other ways, too. A heartthrob had better know his place - "I've encountered that a few times," he sighs. "We're very specific about people's roles. In any debate forum, if someone contributes who is not seen as qualified, then it's invalid. You're judged on your credentials, not on what you actually say. So as an actor, there are certain areas you're forbidden to enter. People won't hear certain things from a luvvie. You're endowed with specific features - you're trivial, you're self-obsessed. "So, for instance, when Harold Pinter asked some questions about the moral authority of the war in Kosovo, George Robertson said: "Mr Pinter seems to have found himself a new profession." The implication was: "Stick to writing plays." So I feel I can't take up an issue because I'm viewed as a typical luvvie." Always quick to spot comic potential, he adds hastily: "Not that I seek gravitas. Being in a Sunday afternoon drama serial is not something that automatically adds weight to your opinions on Kosovo." Firth thinks deeply about his craft - and that was one reason why he was drawn towards his latest film, Donovan Quick. Going out on BBC1 next Thursday, this is a thought-provoking drama set among the cut-throat world of privatised buses in Scotland. In this clever reworking of the Don Quixote myth, Firth plays an other-worldly loner who is so disgusted with the inadequate service provided by the greedy franchise holder, Windmill Transport, that he resolves to start up his own one-bus operation. Even though it was made last year, the film nevertheless has a timely significance in a country where great swathes of the privatised transport system appear to have gone into meltdown. But for Firth, Donovan Quick's story has a universal resonance beyond mere contemporary echoes. There is something of him in all of us. We have all experienced that Quixotic sensation of noble failure - and we all share his dualistic nature. "Donovan Quick is infused with contradictions - and that makes for good drama. If you keep trying to reconcile the irreconcilable, you are never going to rest. You have to learn to live with something and its opposite - both are true. You can admire a politician and then find out that he's corrupt - but one does not invalidate the other. Life can be fantastic and crap at the same time. We're always looking for the final word on people, but Donovan shows us that you can be pathetic and noble simultaneously. "Being comfortable with that lack of resolution is as close as we're ever going to get to understanding anything. We have to accept paradoxes. Any search for clarity beyond that is doomed. Like Donovan, we make the mistake of thinking we've found the magic formula, or the system for winning at roulette, or the perfect political system. It's not about finding answers, but relentlessly pursuing them. You are always travelling; you never arrive." When he is in full flow like this, it is hard to credit that Firth has often run a mile from interviews. He admits that with reporters in the past he has felt about as comfortable as a marathon runner with a stone in his shoe. Part of the problem, he says, is that a journalist's desire to pin things down is inimical to an actor's need to remain elusive and unknowable. According to Firth, "there is a fear of being defined - which is anathema to an actor. I didn't avoid interviews for personal reasons. It's just that it's wise for an actor to keep his own identity at a low profile. Our job is to do with creating an illusion, and that illusion is far more effective if audiences don't know who you are off screen. It's like a conjuror - he'dbe ruined if he gave his trick away. "It's not good for people to become too familiar with me as myself. I want audiences to accept me on screen or on stage. I don't want them to compare that with what they saw on some chat-show." So has Firth ever deigned to appear on a chat show? "I did a magnificently grudging Wogan about 12 years ago," he smiles. One of the lasting legacies of the D-word is that people imagine Firth has spent his whole career in period breeches and wigs. But in fact he has a great range, as films as diverse as Fever Pitch (in which he played Nick Hornby) and Hostages (John McCarthy) demonstrate. "The profile of you-know-what is so overwhelming that the perception is that I've done more period dramas than anything else, but that's just not true," he protests. "Anyway, what is period? Fever Pitch was a period drama - it was set seven years before it was filmed. My character's clothes were all out of date and, I'm ashamed to say, they were mine. The costume designers searched high and low for unfashionable clothes, and the only place that they could be found was in my wardrobe. "I'll take a good script wherever I see it. The year it is set is, quite frankly, secondary. I remember a very well-known actor once asking me whether I was concerned about being trapped in period dramas. I told him "absolutely not." If a period drama is any good, it will be just as much about the present as something in contemporary dress. "In any case, every film is an artificial convention. Look at Quentin Tarantino's films - they're set in an entirely stylised universe. I've never seen a world where machine-guns lie around on the kitchen sideboard, the bathroom is covered in cocaine and rock'n'roll music plays as you drive down sunny streets in an open-top car." Just to underline his versatility, Firth's next two feature films are fiercely contemporary. Londinium is a modern-day comedy about two couples who go in for a spot of light wife-swapping, while Bridget Jones' Diary is a big-screen adaptation of Helen Fielding's bestseller about a terminal singleton in London today. In the latter, Firth plays a man named - wait for it - Darcy. However, he is quick to point out that "this Darcy is not the same character at all. He's a 20th-century lawyer, and he has an entirely different style of speaking. "Also, Austen's Darcy would not have stayed for one second in the same room as Bridget Jones. If he thought the Bennet sisters were vulgar, imagine what he would think of a smoking, short-skirt-wearing, falling-down-drunk woman like Bridget. He'd be absolutely horrified by her." So these films show once and for all that there is more to Firth than playing the winner of a 19th-century wet T-shirt competition. As he concludes - with a characteristically self-effacing chuckle - "I'm not just a stiff-upper-lip, chinless wonder." Donovan Quick is on BBC1 at 9pm next Thursday.

Thanks, Karen! Colin is finally making the rounds. Do you still think he will do Letterman? ;-)

I wonder if this interview was made during the DQ shoot. I vaguely remember tht Japanese restaurnat figured in another interview. "It's not good for people to become too familiar with me as myself. I want audiences to accept me on screen or on stage. I don't want them to compare that with what they saw on some chat-show." Forget Letterman...he ain't gonna do it. Like Donovan, we make the mistake of thinking we've found the magic formula, or the system for winning at roulette, or the perfect political system. It's not about finding answers, but relentlessly pursuing them. You are always travelling; you never arrive." Wow...heavy duty stuff. Wonder which philosopher he's been reading. Thanks K. and Janet.

(Evelyn) I wonder if this interview was made during the DQ shoot. I vaguely remember tht Japanese restaurnat figured in another interview. Sure seems that way, as Rampton's previous article from September 21, 1999 (the one that mentioned Stagecoach and Brian Souter) also took place at the Japanese restaurant: "Firth is unwinding in a rather fancy Japanese restaurant following a hot afternoon in the central Glasgow studio." Think about how long ago the actual interview took place. Must have been fairly lengthy, as he was able to get two good-sized articles out of it. ;-) (CF) "I did a magnificently grudging Wogan about 12 years ago," he smiles. (Moon) Do you still think he will do Letterman? ;-) (Evelyn) Forget Letterman...he ain't gonna do it. Completely unacceptable insofar as BJD is concerned! Juliette Binoche was on last night...Chocolat IS a film being distributed by Miramax. And being the great actor that he is, he can pretend to be someone else during the interview. ;-) Another mention about using his own clothes during FP.

And here's the url to the article at the paper: http://www.thescotsman.co.uk/scotland.cfm?id=34303

Another mention about using his own clothes during FP. Wonder if he did his own hair dye-job too;-) (Karen)Sure seems that way,[same time as other interview] as Rampton's previous article from September 21, 1999 (the one that mentioned Stagecoach and Brian Souter) also took place at the Japanese restaurant: Except that he mentions BJD in this one... ...this Darcy is not the same character at all. He's a 20th century lawyer , and he has an entirely different style of speaking." Did he know he was going to be cast as MD in Sept'99? He didn't own up to it in Jan.2000. K.Think about how long ago the actual interview took place. Must have been fairly lengthy, as he was able to get two good-sized articles out of it. ;-) Yeah...that's a lotta sushi... "I take a good script where I see it." Colin, honey,you missed on SLOW... ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~` But they are good interviews, and we are grateful inasmuch as he "measures" them.

"I take a good script where I see it." (Evelyn)Colin, honey,you missed on SLOW... Did you really hate it so much? Anyway, he takes a good "unedited" script where he sees it ;-)

A Christmas goodwill offering from The Three Deers (despite dodging the bullets... ;-P) - found and scanned by The aFirthionado webmistress Renate. Enjoy:

Ooops... try the link (and remind me how to do img src!!!) http://www.colinfirth.com/spot/spot.html

Ooh, Loverly, thanks.

"I take a good script where I see it." (Evelyn)Colin, honey,you missed on SLOW... (Gi)Did you really hate it so much? LOL. No Gi, I don't *hate* it ...(though I think it's the bottom of the barrel);-)Just feel he should have passed. (And I wouldn't be surprised if he feels the same way now.) But hey, then we wouldn't have had that private screening at Mr. Young's:-))) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ OH....*Swoon* ...what a beautiful picture...Turtlenecks are it ... look at those hands.And Moon will love it cause he's not wearing black trainers with white laces;-) Thank you Three Deers. A new picture *and* new interview ...oh blessed day:-)

Thanks Karen and Janet for the article and 3 Deers for the picture. It is a definite keeper. I hate to criticize my favorite fantasy man, but I am perfectly capable of separating an actor from the characters he palys. Has he ever heard of suspended disbelief? I vote for Letterman, Leno, Rosie O'Donnell, Regis, and every big talk-show in the UK. Too bad my vote doesn't count.

Thanks Karen and Janet for the great interview. He does seem want to be a little more "user friendly", in these latest interviews.

Thank you Three Deers and whoever found the article. A lovely, lovely picture. "I take a good script where I see it." (Evelyn) Colin, honey,you missed on SLOW... LOL! Somehow I knew you were going to pick up on that one. If he spoke to Rampton way back during DQ shoot, he probably thought we'd never see SLOW as it was locked up in the vault. Then, we couldn't know about his momentary lapse of judgment. ;-) Just as a procedural thing, I would think Rampton did a little phone call to update his info for this article. You know, get a few more quotes on recent things. (Janine) I vote for Letterman, Leno, Rosie O'Donnell, Regis, and every big talk-show in the UK. He's really better off just doing a few of the bigger shows here. Remember when Leno made that comment about "liking that guy" when Gwynnie was on for SIL and showed the clip of her and Wessex with the slap? Our guys wouldn't hassle him. A few weeks ago, I heard that, when Finding Forrester was having its premiere in LA, Sean Connery banned the UK press from attending; he will not deal with them.

Thanks for the article, Karen and Janet! And to the 3 Deers for what must be a Mark Darcy pic (August, turtle neck). Found some more info on the project-on-which-he-passed. May have done the right thing. The lead in Harrow Alley is a character ("a good man") called Harry Poyntz (not very 17th century English sounding!). The screenplay has been around for 30 years (writer is dead) and it's earned the label of the best screenplay never made...but you have to ask why it wasn't made. Some one said of it..."I read it on a rainy Sunday and damn near committed suicide." Call me a featherweight but I quite like being entertained. Wonder if we'll get BJD2.

(Janine) but I am perfectly capable of separating an actor from the characters he palys. Has he ever heard of suspended disbelief? Exactly. What a crock. A poor excuse to not do that which he is afraid of doing. *Everybody* does these shows. C'mon, Colin, even little Jamie Bell was over here doing the talk shows! Rosie and Jay Leno would be good choices for him. They love actors and they always try to make their guests look good; there's no "gotcha" going on at all. Marketing and promotion is part of the job; it doesn't stop at the last "cut!" It's a continuum that extends throughout the film's life, and TV is the mass medium. Thanks, 3 Deers, for that gorgeous photo!

Thank you Three Deers and whoever found the article. A copy of this pic was originally searched online by someone else... would the resposible sleuth please own up? :-) However, the online pic was tiny and fuzzy. Luckily, the Spotlight magazine (incidentally, nothing to do with the UK famous Spotlight casting directors' bible!) is published in Germany and that's why Renate was able to obtain a good copy so soon.

A couple of recommendatins of DQ in The Times on Saturday: Play Choice: Colin Firth gets off the train in Scotland. He stands still, narrows his eyes and takes a deep breath. "Into the belly of the beast," he says, and sets off on his mission like a latter-day Don Quixote. He lodges with a family where there is room for improvement. Mum is a 35-year-old alcoholic going on 50; Granny wanders around without any clothes on; one of the boys has a learning disability and the other is a glue sniffer with a criminal bent. The gas and electric bills are overdue and the fourth lodger in as many weeks has just walked out without paying his bill. But Donovan ("Who is this man?") Quick gives them a common goal and sense of purpose. This may be a feel-good fairytale, but at the same time it is hard-edged, beautifully acted, accurate, funny and charming - like a late Christmas present that has been given with a great deal of thought and affection. And then from Paul Hoggart, who trashed some of the costume dramas, went on to recommend DQ: If this sounds a little jaded, then at least I can recommend two modern dramas. Donovan Quick (Thursday, BBC1, 9pm) is a quirky and engaging update of the Don Quixote story, set in a run-down house somewhere on Clydeside. Colin Firth appears, as if by magic, a civilised, educated innocent of a lodger ready to take on the might of the evil Windmill bus company. It�s really a fable about cynical transport privatisations, uncaring communities and people power. Liz Smith gives her most compelling performance as a batty old granny who slops round the house all day in her underwear.

Thanks from me too Karen and Janet for the article, even if the interview was done last year I'm pleased that he seems to be doing more of them (sadly restricted to print only but hey we take what we can get). What comes across more and more from these interviews is his very quick and dry sense of humour - nothing is more attractive in one's personality IMHO, witness: "And how could I answer questions such as: 'What's it like to be a heart-throb?' 'Well, I wake up and have a full heartthrob breakfast. Then I walk down the street making hearts throb all over the place'." "The costume designers searched high and low for unfashionable clothes, and the only place that they could be found was in my wardrobe." I totally agree with his comment: "The British in general are brilliant at laughing at themselves and their country and there's nothing more pleasing in a person" ...although the cynic in me might say that we don't have much else to laugh about , bah humbug! And finally....*picking self up from floor* Ooooh that picture!

Janine) I hate to criticize my favorite fantasy man, but I am perfectly capable of separating an actor from the characters he palys. Has he ever heard of suspended disbelief Oh honey, it's easy for us because we know him so well. ;-) It's those people who actually are disappointed when they see he's not Darcy. In 35 years, I had never previously seen anyone's face fall when they met me face-to-face. Amazing, those women (and they must be women) are obviously visually impaired. By the way, he didn't actually say he wouldn't appear on a talk show. Just avoided the question, as usual. He'll be there. Just praying it's not The View here in the US. I remember for SIL how poor Joe Fiennes got only one question and a stupid one at that.

Thanks you 3 Deers for that luvvy picture! Yes, Evelyn, this picture without the trainers is perfect. :-) I took it to mean that I should just go back to being Mr Darcy all the time for ever," Firth comments. "I want to say that although I have never considered the Darcy thing to be a problem, that is simply not going to happen." You will always be Mr. Darcy in our eyes, whether you like it or not. ;-) I agree with Heide. For BJD, I think Colin will do the talk shows this time. He would not be in his right mind to only let HG and RZ promote it. Something to look forward to.

Most UK Saturday papers list Donovan Quick as the Pick of the Day or Critic's Choice or Recommended in the TV listing for the next Thursday. Phrases like "the dependable -" and "the excellent Colin Firth" have been used.

..Phrases like "the dependable -" and "the excellent Colin Firth" have been used. I'm probably in the minority here, but I'm glad DQ went the TV route. It never would have gotten those reviews and comments from the British film critics who are vipers. Esp. if they catch a whiff that a film got some government funding. And don't get me started about box office receipts....

Had to laugh, this is Teletext's assessment: "It's all strangely absorbing."

According to The Sunday Times in a very long interview, it says Colin is to play Hamlet next year, at the Riverside Studios, whow Hamlet, can't wait. The Colin Interview is in the Arts Section "The Windmills of his mind". Does, anyone know excactly where the riverside Studios are? Not sure though if this would be the "once in a lifetime" project we were all hoping for and for which he gave up two other projects. What do you think Bethan?

The interview plus new photo can be found online.

I read the interview early this morning Australian Time - I was delighted but again like Ann where is the Riverside Studios - I have been searching on the net and can't find it. I shall continue. The interview is most interesting except for one bad mistake - said he was 42!

Merry Christmas! Seasonal Cheer, Joy and Happiness to All. And here's to the next year's convention of the Firthers of the world - again.

Ah, good lad! He's finally grasped the nettle. And he's not too old...the more experience and suffering you can bring to Hamlet the better. Simon Russell Bealle at the National who has just played what was regarded as the bestever Hamlet is in his forties. Long article on Riverside Studios http://www.jrp.dial.pipex.com/PG/pieces/directors_as_god.shtml There's a pic. Looks almost as intimate as the Donmar, much more up close and personal than the West End. It's in Hanmersmith, West Lomdon, under the directorship of Peter Gill. �50 a week as at the Donmar.

*jumping up and down* (although The Times site is not answering me right now and cannot read article) Apparently, Peter Gill WAS the founder back in 1976. The current artistic director is William Burdett-Coutts. Does the article say who will be directing? Here is the Riverside Studios website, with info on what's playing there and box office, directions to get there, etc. Apparently is still used for television production. http://www.riversidestudios.co.uk/ The current play's tickets are �16.50 (�10.00 concessions), the latter I gather refers to student rate.

Director is Christopher Fettes, who directed CF in his first Hamlet. He's the Principal of the Drama Centre London, but frequently directs other productions, most recently "Tis a pity she's a whore" which got rave reviews. The last Hamlet at Riverside starred Alan Rickman.

YIPPEE! Here's the full article from the Times (thanks, Janet). Are we sure this is to be a live play vs. one done for TV? Colin Firth may be bright, but he's defiantly unstarry and back on the small screen. So what could follow Mr Darcy? Don Quixote (sort of), discovers LESLEY WHITE The windmills of his mind 'He's a bit like an intense postgraduate student, keen on beer and long pub conversations about T S Eliot': Colin Firth Photograph: Alan Strutt. Shot at One Aldwych, WC2 � AA Gill What did you expect: Mr Darcy in a Dolce & Gabbana suit? For those unprepared for his slight and self-effacing countenance, Colin Firth could be a sore disappointment. Far from filling the space between us with brooding magnetism and Chanel's Ego�ste, he's a bit like an intense postgraduate student, keen on beer and long pub conversations about T S Eliot. Clad in a black ensemble that might be designer or thrift-shop, but certainly conveys no plea-sure in appearance, is a man who speaks so quietly that I have to stick my tape recorder under his nose, and he apologises. Those who know more of his work than the obligatory Pride and Prejudice, who saw his brain-damaged Falklands casualty in Tumbledown or his Pinter-directed Caretaker, will not be surprised by the contrast. This is not Bridget Jones's dreamboat, treating you to a penetrating Ralph Fiennes gaze to seal his own gorgeousness. None of that. Firth is affable, straightforward, intelligent, just an actor - but one whose looks encouraged an unwanted celebrity, who knows he owes them big-time but is properly embarrassed by the idea. This Christmas, he is the handsomest face of the schedules in the television film Donovan Quick, a feelgood morality fable about a man from nowhere who sets about solving the problems of a family struggling with poverty, disability and drink. Loosely based on Cervantes's knight errant, Don Quixote, his character does good in atonement for a past misdemeanour, until the men in white coats make him well, and nasty, again. "They cure him enough to go back to being an a***hole, because we live in a world where doing good is mocked and sophistication and jadedness are what we admire." At 42, the serious-minded actor lives with total disregard for the trimmings of even a home-grown star's lifestyle, for cars, clothes and houses. When he adds that, these days, he would rather have a hotel than sleep on the platform of the Gare du Nord, it still sounds like a close call. He would make a brilliantly skulking Raskol-nikov, Dostoevsky's tortured anarchist, but though he would welcome an overtly political part, and would probably do anything that fascinated him enough for free, he never has time to seek one out. Too busy being reluctantly glamorous. Firth has worked consistently since leaving drama school in 1982 and walking straight into the play of the year, Julian Mitchell's Another Country, in which he replaced Rupert Everett as the public- school proto-traitor Guy Bennett. For years of theatre and television work, he escaped being recognised in the street, which suited him fine. He lived in Hackney when Pride and Prejudice aired, his neighbours either unaware or unimpressed that the nation's pin-up was around the corner. "Nobody gave a s***. It meant I could go out in my pyjamas to pick up the Sunday papers and the bog roll, and nobody would comment. I didn't fancy getting dressed to do those things. In fact, I still hate getting dressed." He is not even career-obsessed, taking months off every year to visit his 10-year-old son in southern California, where he lives with his mother, the actress Meg Tilly. Firth fell in love with her on the set of Milos Forman's 1989 film Valmont, and they moved to the wilderness of British Columbia to raise their son. For a year or so, his career threatened to evaporate, even though he was still flying home to work. "I wrote to local Vancouver theatres saying what I'd done, without blowing my own trumpet, and that I'd be happy to do kids' workshops, but not one of them replied. When I read a piece in a British tabloid saying that I'd been sniffing round Hollywood, trying to get a Jeremy Irons-type break, when all I'd been doing was changing nappies, I felt that all that mattered was that I'd gone. It felt dangerous." In fact, Firth had visited Hollywood three times and loathed it. Instead of using Valmont as his Tinseltown calling card, he refused all meetings out of inverted snobbery and fear. "I told myself I was a purist, but actually I was s***-scared of it all. Now, if it happened to me, fine. I've dropped that pose of shunning it. I'd still hate the intrusion, but I believe you can stay yourself. The ones who really whore out were whores at the beginning. If I were only good at it ... If I could distinguish myself at those parties and chat shows, it might be easier." But Firth's idea of fun is "dull", meaning literary, with the odd afternoon's football but no showbiz haunts or junkets if he can help it. With his Italian wife, Livia Guiggioli, a documentary producer, he sees theatre, goes out for dinner (tables easier to reserve since P&P), talks books with his great friend Nick Hornby, whose Arsenal fanatic Paul Ashworth Firth played in the film of Fever Pitch. Asked by Hornby to contribute to a new book of short stories, Speaking With the Angel, the profits of which will benefit the TreeHouse Trust for autistic children, he may have finally found the confidence to show the fiction he has been stuffing in drawers for years. You can see how the idea of a writing life would appeal to his reticent non-acting self, that telling distrust of the shallows of his business. "When I agreed, I thought, 'I'm an actor, I'll just ramble on until I find a voice,' but it just kept coming out awful." Eventually, he was "chuffed" with his first-person monologue in the voice of an 11-year-old boy, and he looked more excited about the publication party and the book signings than he would about being a hot tip at the Academy Awards. Another contributor to that book was the creator of Bridget Jones, Helen Fielding, who hit a second jackpot when Firth agreed to play Mark Darcy - media lawyer in fantasy breeches - in the new movie. "Doing that has lifted the curse off the whole Mr Darcy thing," he says. "Not that I've been desperate to get away from it." Hadn't we heard that he was haunted by Austen's snarling stallion, that the drama was taboo in his house, that his nostrils began to twitch when reminded? Don't mention the D-word. He laughs. "Not at all. It was just another job." There may have been a fear that he would never be seen in modern clothes again, and there was definitely a photo-shoot where he was asked to wear a wet ruffled shirt and throw around torn-up copies of Bridget Jones's Diary (he made his excuses and left), but he'd do Heathcliff in a flash if he were asked. Maybe, but he's obviously far happier with his next role, as a prominent Nazi lawyer. In Conspiracy: The Meeting at Wannsee, the story of a 1942 Third Reich gathering to formalise the details of the Holocaust, Firth plays Dr Stuckart, who puts the case for mass sterilisation over a buffet lunch. "You'd have thought it was a meeting of some corporation board, all making jokes and sipping wine. The atmosphere on set was alarmingly buoyant, but suddenly you find yourself speaking some banal line about cleaning the gas trucks, and you're hit with a wave of nausea." Firth catches us out in our prejudices, shows that it is all too easy to ascribe to good looks the vanity that normally underpins conversations with leading actors. He did not choose acting for the fame and the women - if there was a dubious motive, it was wanting to teach his school a lesson. His parents were academics but, as an 11+ failure, he went to the local secondary modern in Winchester and was miser-able. The family's years in Nigeria and St Louis set him apart, and so middle-class were the Firths - Colin, his brother, Jonathan, also an actor, and their sister - that they weren't allowed to watch ITV. "We didn't have popular culture. We were inversely deprived of life's essential vulgarities. I hadn't seen Crossroads or Magpie or Randall and Hopkirk. There was a whole area of playground chat that I couldn't join in with. I never saw Les Dawson or Larry Grayson." Weren't they on BBC? "Oh well, it must have been past my bedtime, then." If the kids thought him weird, the teachers were worse. "I was unwilling, and they disliked and despised me." Though things improved at sixth-form college, where he acquired a home-counties accent to match other long-haired Genesis fans, there was no way he was going to university. Somehow, through school plays and local drama workshops, he discovered ambition. "One day, at 14, I just walked in and told my parents that I was going to be an actor." At the Drama Centre in Chalk Farm, he finally shed the habits of the perverse loner, reading what he was asked, for once, and collaborating. He had chosen the place for its iconoclastic approach, and was soon its star, playing the lead in the centre's first and last Hamlet, directed by his mentor, the school's principal, Christopher Fettes. One of the tutors told him he was matinee-idol material, but not as an encouragement, rather a warning that he might easily end up prostituting the talent that made Fettes compare him to Paul Scofield. "But I never even expected to work. When I left, I'd have been euphoric to get a spear-carrier in repertory. Films seemed like another world." Instead of the usual waiting job, he landed Another Country, followed by the film of the play. "To me, it felt like megastardom. I made no distinction between that and a Hollywood role. I'd only been in London three years." He thinks it was his looks that clinched the audition. "Others were far better than me, but they weren't looking for a short fat guy with a slight Scandinavian accent. They wanted someone who walked and talked and looked like me." But the image of the upper-class romantic is not one that suits him, or provides much faith in his future offers. "There's been a lot of grumbling recently about how the toffs get all the work, especially in America, but it's not true, and I certainly don't want to be sneered at for being something I'm not. I'd love to do a south London villain. It's like Miles Davis said: don't play what you know, play what you don't know." Next year, he gets his biggest chance to defy that advice, playing Hamlet at the Riverside Studios, directed once again by Fettes. "I was beginning to wonder if it had passed me by. Albert Finney said you should play it at 20 or 40, but I think Hamlet's 30. By my own theory, I'm 10 years too old, but I'm itching to do it." The play has been much discussed recently, with Simon Russell Beale's political prince and Adrian Lester's acclaimed interpretation for Peter Brook, but Firth is not nervous of Elsinore fatigue, only determined that his own shot should be his proudest moment. Clearly, he is pretty thrilled with life right now but trying not to be smug. After two relationships with leading ladies (Jennifer Ehle was the second), he is relieved to have shed the embarrassing lothario reputation. "There's this absurd perception that actors are f***ing each other all the time, but it's just that you tend to end up with the people you work with. Actually, being with another actor is a nightmare, I promise you. Livia is a very secure person, much more secure than me. Every single actor I know envies me." Donovan Quick, BBC1, Dec 28, 9pm

and do you think if we telephoned the Studios they would have a date for Hamlet, am keeping my fingers crossed that it doesn't clash with a trip to NY in March!!!

Great article. Thanks for reposting it here, Mari, and I'll thank Janet in a couple of days. ;-) (Mari) Are we sure this is to be a live play vs. one done for TV? If it were going to be for TV, don't you think it would've been stated as such? There is no current stage production at Riverside right now. It ended on the 16th and nothing is listed for future productions. The boxoffice is closed until after Boxing Day. But I'm guessing it will be early in the year; otherwise he wouldn't be talking about it. February? Late January? Clad in a black ensemble that might be designer or thrift-shop Who is he kidding? ;-) "...If I were only good at it ... If I could distinguish myself at those parties and chat shows, it might be easier." Has he tried lately? But maybe there's hope given the comments about the writing stuffed in a drawer. He just needs to be nudged a little more, as Hornby did. there was definitely a photo-shoot where he was asked to wear a wet ruffled shirt and throw around torn-up copies of Bridget Jones's Diary (he made his excuses and left) I do hope he was joking around. :-( so middle-class were the Firths...that they weren't allowed to watch ITV. "We didn't have popular culture....I hadn't seen Crossroads or Magpie or Randall and Hopkirk. There was a whole area of playground chat that I couldn't join in with. I never saw Les Dawson or Larry Grayson." Weren't they on BBC? "Oh well, it must have been past my bedtime, then." *hee hee* Love when he's caught in a fantasy past recollection. ;-)

Ann, the place is closed until after Boxing Day. I already tried calling.

Thanks Karen. I will have a go too next week.

Here is the picture that goes with the Times article - thanks to my friend Gill: Great Holiday present isn't it?

Oweee! Thanks, Murph and Gill. A nonpodgy face and semi-brooding. How perfect for the new role. Have put the article up for easy reading/printing. Will need to add the pic. http://www.spring.net/karenr/articles/times122400.html

Hamlet,eh? Well, he said once he wanted to play it, so here's his chance. He will need time to rehearse, won't he? Wouldn't February or March be likely times for this? I hope it works out for him -- so many actors have tried it and come up short. His will definitely be the introspective, tortured, musing type of Prince of Denmark, I bet. (Hope it isn't in modern dress. Hamlet and breeches -- there you are!) I still remember from 1948-49 when our class went to see Olivier's film, and we spent the whole time giggling at the codpieces and the breeches, callow Catholic girl school people that we were. Remember this?

Karen, please use the one I got from Gill, if you need it

Thanks, Murph, I will. ;-) Having just read Branagh's autobiography, they don't spend all that long rehearsing these plays. Might only be 3 weeks. What we don't really have a feel for, is how long it will be staged? Elsinore-fitigue sort of implies a longish run but that may only mean a couple of months in Colin-time. ;-)

The Times is back online (unless I was the only one who couldn't get it to answer). This will take you directly to the article, bypassing the frames: http://www.sunday-times.co.uk/news/pages/sti/2000/12/24/sticultvv03002.html

Thanks, Murph and Gill, for the yummy pic. No sideburns, he was in Stuckart mode when this was taken, for sure. I think Elsinore-fatigue is referring to potential public reaction at yet another Hamlet on the heels of the other recent ones. I have the feeling that those months he spends with his son in CA are January--March or April, so I am going to guess late April or May for this play.

I believe you're right, Mari, have just reread relevant section.

Three interviews & two new pics in less than three weeks.More than we got Jan-Sept.Turning over a new leaf Colin? Thanks Murph, Gill and everyone for bringing us the Christmas goodies. Agree with those who say that we hope the Hamlet isn't soon.Too close to the (pardon the expression!)Simon Russell Beale interpretation which had the critics swooning and got him the Evening Standard Award. Riverside Studios in Hammersmith sounds like "Off-Off Broadway". ...Actually, being with another actor is a nightmare, I promise you. C'mon Colin, not fair...Jennifer isn't around to defend herself;-) Sometimes I think he talks too much.

(Evelyn) Riverside Studios in Hammersmith sounds like "Off-Off Broadway". All the world's a stage... ;-) (besides, didn't some other person play in Brooklyn?!)

(besides, didn't some other person play in Brooklyn?!) True...and probably for the same reason...make tickets more affordable for young folks. OT Roundabout has a program called Hip Tix.Their Broadway shows will be $30 for members, and their off-Broadway shows are $25. Membership is FREE (normally costs $60, I think) until JAN 1, 2001 if you use the code QA. http://www.roundabouttheatre.org/hiptix.htm or call (212) 719-1300 with any questions

Nice article - great news. Perhaps our boy's career plans now include a major film, a quality TV production and a stage role each year. One can only hope.

One can only hope... ;-) although my mind is more agreeably engaged in whether this production's costumes will be traditional tights! ;-) Checked my TimeOut London Guide and it has the Riverside Studios listed. Performances appear to be evening only (Tue-Sun). "With two hangar-like spaces and one studio, the recently refurbished Riverside hosts a commendable range of international travelling theatre, dance and larger-scale domestic works, usually with an avant-garde tilt. Watch out for the New Play Festival in the spring, the Sitcome Festival in the summer and the Dance Umbrella in the autumn." Does Hamlet qualify as a New Play? Perhaps, if it's done with an 'avant-garde tilt.' ;-)

To the ladies who did the Film Discussions, when are you going to discuss Femme Fatale? I enjoyed your other discussions, but I'd love to read your opinions on FF. I've seen FF and loved it - well CF in it. I'll also be looking forward to your comments on his more recent films. Does anyone know if a Colin Firth calendar is available?

(Evelyn) Riverside Studios in Hammersmith sounds like "Off-Off Broadway". Too right, Evelyn. I once watched a Midsummer Night's Dream there with more cast members than audience members, which was a depressing experience. I think at the time he's talking about Les Dawson and Larry Grayson were on ITV, only moving to the BBC later. I speak as another ITV-deprived child.