Thanks, Murph. So MB might have himself a TV series, eh? Karen, Detroit's loss is Chicago's . . .loss.;-)

isn't it about time that we heard for sure what his next project is, apart from his reading & writing of course. Baz B.'s column in in the Mail seems to be the only source of British entertainment news. You rarely get confirmation of projects, especially TV. Unlike major Hollywood projects which get a lot of news coverage (BJD for instance) I'm assuming he's doing "Armadillo" at the moment. There's no reason to delay it. I remember reading that Channel 4 were planning a series based on "Sword of honour", and the next thing it's all done and dusted, and ready to be screened. The news item about the Dr Zhivago project gave the filming schedule for next summer, and it will just go ahead. BTW, there *is* scope for a new look at Dr Zhivago IMHO. The film was wonderful, but I think (some time since I read it) there are aspects of the book that are different, more tragic (if that's possible!), especially Zhivago's relationships with the two women he loves. The ending is different...after losing his wife and son, and Lara, Zhivago drifts to Moscow, and lives in near destitution with the poor, writing educational books and pamphlets. He dies, without seeing Lara again. Anyway, will *not* (repeat *not*!) indulge in wishful thinking!!I think Andrew Davies could do something new with this.

As several have brought up celebrations for Colin's birthday bash, we might as well kick off "Party Central" on Topic 110. For all you new Droolies, if you'd like to see how we celebrated last year, check this out: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/110.167 Moon (prez of PartiesRUs)...take it away!

I have never read the book & have not seen the film for years,in fact I wasn't of an age to either understand or appreciate it.If there's an inkling that he's up for the role I will rectify this. As for Armadillo that is my choice for him.I loved the book & couldn't put it down so I will be disappointed if he doesn't do it.

(Judy) If there's an inkling that he's up for the role I will rectify this. No inkling ;-)

Thanks for the tip about his birthday bash Karen.thatsgoing to be a hard act to follow, Realised while I was over there that my brother has two things in common with Colin ,the same birthday & a small bald patch:-D

Since we have been bringing up the old bongs lately, how about doing a psychedelic theme party for Colin. He does wear those coloured glasses. ;-) Mini and maxi skirts, go-go boots and that thin velvet bandana. I am ready! Plus, I am sure he will love the music. Dusting off T-Rex. :-D

Are we also going to have something with which to fill the old bongs? Not that I necessarily want, ahem, organic pharmaceuticals to sully up CF's party. Are there other uses for an old bong?

I will see what my Turkish friends can do. It is going to be one hot-smoking party. ;-)))

(HR Article) Binder's other feature directing credits include 1994's "Blankman," 1993's "Indian Summer" and 1992's "Crossing the Bridge." Wot? That cinema classic, "The Sex Monster" is missing from his C.V.? Shocking oversight ;-). (Karen) From the Starz website, here are additional broadcast times for Relative Values during October (times shown are all ET/PT): Oct. 26 at 10:00 am and 6:20 pm Oooh, something to look forward to on my birthday other than an a new wrinkle :-).

The Radio Times which came out today, says that next week it will be announcing its drama programmes for the Autumn - Any hope for DQ do you think?

Fingers crossed, but the BBC seems to be very departmental. DQ is a BBC Film, and I *was* told by BBC Films that it was scheduled for October/November. But Films and Drama seem to be quite different, and so I don't know if it will be listed. Hope so! I know that Karen will slap my wrists for this (so what did happen to "Flashman" then?! :-)), but I *have* to report that there's quite a big buzz about the planned remake of Dr Zhivago in the media. The news was reported on one of the radio arts programmes...a Granada spokesperson is quoted as saying that they're tremendously excited about the project, and want the absolute best.(Granada are the producers...they made "Jewel in the Crown", "Lost Empires" and, I think, "Brideshead Revisited". Dennis Forman was the CEO of Granada). It will be filmed partly on location in Southern Italy. Also picked up in the Guardian ("highly ambitious project") and the Independent. And these are just the papers I saw... there may be more coverage. CF's name is mentioned in the Independent, but again in the Andrew Davies context, as the "smouldering Mr Darcy". Subliminal mention?!! Casting begins later this year. Mentions that the part of Lara is the one likely to be most difficult to fill, and they want an established cinema actress like Kate Winslett). No mention of casting for Dr Zhivago (why not? this is the main role.) Anyway, many a slip twixt cup and lip, so will say no more. I know it's television (but so was P&P!).

I know it's television (but so was P&P!). But, but....that was six ....... years ago. evelyn*crying...in her Chardonnay*

No mention of casting for Dr Zhivago (why not? this is the main role.) Maybe they already have the person they want and don't want to reveal it too soon !!! A girl can live in hope ;-)

Bethan, end the suspense and just call CF's agent. I can hear his response now: "Zhivago? What is Zhivago?" ;-P Don't cry, Evie.

(Eileen) Bethan, end the suspense and just call CF's agent. I can hear his response now: "Zhivago? What is Zhivago?" ;-P *can't stop laughing* (Bethan) I know that Karen will slap my wrists for this and yet that didn't stop you! ;-) What I want to know is: does 136 have the cooties or something? BTW, there is something posted there that might be of interest, as the main (and possibly only) Butterball proponent.

Karen-thanks for the URL. I guess I was in the right place--just v. confused. I didn't want to order the Superpak. Evenutally, I got what I needed. Thanks again!

So the Dr.Zhivago thing is a go then! I thought that was like remaking Gone With The Wind (or Scarlett the Sequel *unkind snort at that memory). Couldn't that be rather risky? --- even given your observation that there's room to update, Karen. On other hand, CF in costume drama suffering over unrequited love *sigh*. I'd go see it!! Must confess, that like Judy, I have only dim recollection of the film though. What year was it made? I think it was before I was born (1969)! My strongest memory revolves around skating to musac (sp?) version of "Somewhere My Love" every single fu***** time I went to the arena. Party plans sound wonderful. I looked at last year's. WOW! Going to be hard to live up to that, as Judy mentioned.

An aside re: the L.A. September showing of "Fever Pitch". The last venue listed was for 'The Pasadena Playhouse' which is a genuine theatre. I have a friend working there, and being confused, I asked him if they showed movies too, and he replied: No, the Pasadena Playhouse doesn't show films, but possibly what you saw was the Playhouse 7, which is a Laemmle Theatre just around the corner from the Pasadena Playhouse, which shows foreign and art films, so it would make sense that Fever Pitch might be playing there. I certainly hope so, because it's within walking distance of my office, and it would be easy to catch the film there. So just a minor correction for any in that area.

(KJ) An aside re: the L.A. September showing of "Fever Pitch". The last venue listed was for 'The Pasadena Playhouse' which is a genuine theatre. Thanks, KJ. I've been to the The Pasadena Playhouse before and was a bit confused myself because it certainly doesn't look to be location conducive to showing films.

(Sadie) even given your observation that there's room to update, Karen Twasn't me, but Bethan's observation. Haven't read Zhivago for yonks (right word, right?) although it is true that many things were changed from the novel.

Yawns, I mean yonks isthe right word, Karen. ;-) I still would prefer him as Flashman because he could really make the character his own. I never had much faith in MoB and I think it he is better off without it.

(Moon) I still would prefer him as Flashman Bethan asked about Flashman the other day. Has anyone heard anything? Or is the project dead in the water? Personally, I don't think a Flashman miniseries would be the greatest vehicle for ODB but I'd be interested in it nonetheless. I've developed a fondness for Flashy, especially when he dines with women whose 'udders fall into their soup'. =8-D Hmmm, Karen--do you recall if Flashy has six-pack abs? ;-)

When are we going to get some news, he can't still be on holiday or resting, with such good news about Jennifer it would be wonderful to hear that Armadillo has got the green light and filming has started with ODB starring. A good role also for Stephen would be the icing on the cake.

(Ann)..with such good news about Jennifer it would be wonderful to hear that Armadillo has got the green light and filming has started with ODB starring. As I said in #134 ("Possession" topic), I like to think that ODB was offered the role of Ash and he had to decline because he was already committed to his friend SB for Armadillo. How's that ...?

Evelyn. How's that..? I like it.

Re: Armadillo. I recall someone contacting A&E on this recently (within the past month). Their response was that a script had been commissioned from William Boyd, but no commitment had yet been made on their part. Sounded like it might be a ways off yet, but who knows. . . maybe once the script is in place it can come together quickly. Re: Zhivago. I have nothing against remakes, but the film version of this one is pretty well imbedded in the public's psyche. Not sure I'd want to compete with ghosts.

(Karen)Twasn't me, but Bethan's observation. Apologies to both of you. I read everyone's messages carefully. But it just goes to show how bad my memory is, if I don't go back and cut and paste actual quote!

(A&E) but no commitment had yet been made on their part. Well, we *know* that's an itsy bitsy fib, as they are co-producers. Think best course of action is calling CF's agent, as Eileen suggestion. Should clear things right up. ;-)

LOL Even if CF's agent knew *exactly* what he was doing, I don't think you'd get any information...more likely misinformation! I think that projects happen, but sometimes take time. "Armadillo" isn't a huge budget type project and presumably could go ahead with/without A&E. And I shouldn't imagine that William Boyd would have much difficulty in knocking out a script...the novel could have been written for the screen. Also the turnaround time on TV projects is usually a few months (DQ excepted!) I still think both MOB (as sole supporter!) could happen, and also the political satire on New Labour. Mentions often lead to actuality. I remember reading when "Notting Hill" opened that HG was busy playing tennis in "rehearsal" for a new unspecified movie...that's over a year now, and details have only just been confirmed..

A&E's involvement is fact. Whether it could go ahead with/without them, I wouldn't presume or Boyd's ability to turn the book into a workable script.

I saw some details of drama for the Autumn in one of the TV mags....no mention of DQ. So I phoned up the BBC Drama - Films, again. It's not being shown until next year, and they have no idea when. Do they care? Why not shred it. I don't know what to say...it's a brick wall. The guy I feel most sorry for is Colin. For actor's careers to prosper, they need to be seen. No wonder people are giving up on him, and it's not his fault...he's always let down.

Thanks Bethan for your efforts. I am sure there is more to this than meets the eye, I can see no reason why the BBC are not screening DQ. I hope that we don't have the same problem with Armadillo, should that ever take off. I feel really annoyed about this, why on earth go to the expense of making it, if it is not going to be aired!!! exasperated Ann.

This week's RV engagements: 1. Studio 102, Coleford 2. Rex, Elland 3. The Forum Cinema, Northampton 4. Light House, Wolverhampton 5. Reel Cinema, Kingsbridge 6. Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford A lucky few will be able to go see it again. ;-)

A lucky few will be able to go see it again. ;-) Nah...they're waiting for it to come on the telly....

(Bethan) It's not being shown until next year, and they have no idea when. Oh, fer gawd's sake. They're back to this again? Bethan, isn't that what you were told...last year? To quote Paul, 'pathetic'. Since doing TV is *such* a prestigious thing in the UK, what's an actor to do if his work doesn't air? -- Equally Exasperated Eileen

Re DQ, as Ann says there has to be something else. DQ is part funded by Pandora Cinema. A recent BBC/Pandora film "Maybe Baby", written by Ben Elton and starring Hugh Lawrie, took �7million at the UK Box Office, despite absolutely dreadful reviews. Most (if not all)BBC films get a cinema release (albeit very limited). Pandora cinema have had quite a few successes...Shine, Kolya A good film starring Colin Firth, and written/directed by a BAFTA winning team, and should be PROMOTED, for god's sake! And even if it doesn't get a cinema release, show it on television! I rang BBC Scotland,( and this really is my last time), and was told that they're trying to find an appropriate slot for it.(Like, it's s-o-o difficult) There's still no transmission date (we're going backwards, here), might be shown early next year. (Hey, that's only two years) I've stopped listening to this. Absolute twaddle. Panora Cinema are based in Paris Phone (UK area code) 40 70 090 90. Also have an office in Frankfurt. Anyone multilingual out there like to give them a ring (Renate?) I've given up!!

FYI, most people at Pandora speak English. They have nothing to do with the BBC transmission and are sales agents internationally. My initial contact over there was nice, but had no information. Rest have been utterly useless.

Most (if not all) BBC films get a cinema release Think I posted this ages ago, but the decision was made DQ wouldn't go theatrical. Program is not on correct film type for that and they wouldn't spend the additional money to transfer. I have actually spoken to the producer.

Sorry, Karen, I remember you posted something about this. Oh well, bang go all my farfetched theories. I just can't think of any reason for the contant delays and misrepresentations/lies. They aren't showing it at Xmas or New Year. It seems that the BBC have no interest in showing this and have wasted over a million pounds of taxpayers money and the efforts of a lot of very talented people. I really can't think of anything positive to say. :-( Roll on BJD! Or maybe they really will show it early next year. At my most pessimistic, I can't believe that they'll just dump it!

Oh Well, I am just going to forget all about it and be glad that thanks to our Australian friends we have at least been able to see it. I was thinking that we had so much to look forward to last year, he made Londinium, goodness knows when we will see that, Blackadder - if you blink you miss him, TTOTS, a whole 2mins wow and Relative Values, which we did get to see but I am afraid I just did not like it, give me Mr. Darcy anytime to limpwristed Peter and why is it that we have to wait so long to see his projects, SLOW locked in a vault for years, MLSF delayed for editing for 2years and now DQ, oh hum. I think we will see BJD on time but as I said it is RZ's film and I think Colin could be a a hiding to nothing, the critics could have a field day, so needless to say I am not optimistic. Please please someone tell me that he is doing Armadillo, I really like the sound of this even if it is for TV. (hopefully ITV, I see RG is in a new series Bethan!! grrr)

OK it's my turn to give the pep talk: With BJD, I doubt the critics' opinions will matter. Everyone loves the book (everyone who matters ;-D); it's part of the popular culture. And don't forget that they've been doing a good job promoting it. So, English audiences will see it. And Colin doesn't need much screen time for people to be impressed (some by his acting, some by his abs, some by both). As the sexy man, as opposed to the jerk, everyone will want him to get the girl in the end. RC knows a good Darcy story when he sees it surely! Colin worked hard to get physically in shape for this role, which suggests he saw the opportunity and fought for it; he's not likely to throw all that effort away. There's also every reason to believe it will make a splash in the U.S. and I'll be so bold to predict that a lot of people who have not yet, will make the connection between Colin in this and Colin in P&P. It could spawn a whole new wave of Colin interest and obssessive viewing of older Colin flicks. The total impact of BJD will give him more power of choice and he'll take on another actor's actor role, a really good stretch for him, just as we hope. I've decided to be optimistic and lend my mental energy (such as it is) to envision the best. You see, all my joking aside, I'm not giving up Bethan! (And this time I double-checked to make sure I remembered who said what) :-)

No DQ!! what the hell is going on? Ann I agree with you about all these delays on his work but I do feel envious over those lucky people who have seen DQ. (RG yuk not again) I've had a bad year for seeing Colin's work ,I was beginning to think things were starting to look up but it would seem I was wrong;-(

I missed your pep talk Sadie sorry! You do know how to cheer a girl up-abs *sigh*

I say all that, and that's all you have to say on the matter: abs *sigh*? -D

I'm very, very disappointed about DQ, and don't understand why the BBC don't show it. It would give CF a real boost, and it would be very accessible. And there is NO reason, absolutely no reason at all for the delay. I'm happy to have seen it, but for CF's sake, I'd like that experience to be shared by several millions. The BBC are already showing dramas and films made a few months ago....no problem about scheduling these, apparently. I'm going to believe that it will be okay. The original report was "in the winter" and "next year" so perhaps we're back to that. But I am fed up of seeing every other actor under the sun, except the one who really matters. At least DQ is still listed! One fear is that I'll ring up, and they'll say "DQ, wot's DQ. never heard of it"! I'll not moan any more. I actually think that he is an actor in whom there'll always be interest. He must be doing "Armadillo", Ann. That I do believe! And BJD...well, there'll be a lot of fuss about RZ, but it will be a major movie, with a lot of publicity, as the follow on to 4 weddings and NH. And he is the male romantic lead. And he is Mr Darcy. I worry about the critics, but hopefully they'll lay off him. And I really hope he gets good exposure in the US and promotes himself! It's rather like supporting a soccer team...they lose a few fixtures and you get downhearted, and then w-hoosh, they're off again. I also think that actors have different career paths in the UK...they are often less conspicuous, but carry on working. You gotta believe! Okay, enough from me...i'm just mightily peeved by the Beeb. At least I won't waste time looking at the Radio/TV Times!

Thanks for your pep talk, Sadie! Great stuff! I'll forget about our miserable Beeb and nation of telly watchers...if you think globally, NH took about $300 million, which means (I think) that maybe 50milion people went to see it throughout the world. If 50million see CF as the handsome romantic Mark Darcy in an entertaining, warm, funny movie, he has to make an impression. You just need that one successful movie... It could spawn a whole new wave of Colin interest and obssessive viewing of older Colin flicks. The total impact of BJD will give him more power of choice and he'll take on another actor's actor role, a really good stretch for him, just as we hope. I've decided to be optimistic and lend my mental energy (such as it is) to envision the best. I couldn't put it better! Well said!

(Bethan)maybe 50 milion people went to see it throughout the world Wow, that's mind-boggling really. I'm glad if what I said cheered you, 'cause it was meant to cheer and not to silence.

(Sadie)It could spawn a whole new wave of Colin interest and obssessive viewing of older Colin flicks. The total impact of BJD will give him more power of choice and he'll take on another actor's actor role, a really good stretch for him, just as we hope. I've decided to be optimistic and lend my mental energy (such as it is) to envision the best. This is why we are grateful for newbies.Thanks Sadie.The rest of us are worn out.

Actually it is amazing how fortunes can change, JE was unemployed for 6months, did an interview in a paper and happened to mention that she was unemployed, Tom Stoppard saw it asked why hadn't she auditioned for TRT, and the rest is history, a sell-out hit in the UK, Tony's on Broadway, and now a wonderful role in Possession. (not forgetting Design for Living) Perhaps BJD will have the same effect for Colin, I certainly hope so. Thanks for being so postivie Sadie.

Okay, have done my bit. Have complained to the BBC Drama Dept. Have praised D.Q. to the hilt - it was indeed a success here in Oz. Said so and how I failed to see how they had not shown it etc. Bet they don't answer!!!!

.... DQ is part funded by Pandora Cinema. (Bethan)Also have an office in Frankfurt. Anyone multilingual out there like to give them a ring (Renate?) I knew it sounded somehow familiar to me. I've seen their office, it is not very far from where I live, but I never connected these two companies. I'll call them. Don't expect too much.... but it can't hurt if they know that there's even a demand in Germany.

(Sadie) I say all that,and that's all you have to say on the matter : abs *sigh*? -D LMAO touche,you've a memory like an elephant.But what you said made a lot of sense however once you mentioned abs I couldn't get my mind above them (which is unusual beacause my mind's normally below them )

(Anne)Okay, have done my bit. Have complained to the BBC Drama Dept. Have praised D.Q. to the hilt - it was indeed a success here in Oz. Said so and how I failed to see how they had not shown it etc. Way to go Anne!! (Renate)I'll call them. Don't expect too much.... but it can't hurt if they know that there's even a demand in Germany. It sure can't hurt!! to Judy: LOL! You're no sieve yourself! But was it really your mind that stayed there?

Renate I would be v.interested to hear what they have to say.They can't be any worse than the BBC & the blatant liars they have become. (Sadie) You're no sieve yourself! are you referring to my holiness or my holey-ness? and no its usually my hands that stray

there's even a demand in Germany ...and in Finland. I have made wishes to tv channels that they would show CF-films. Well, atleast Circle of Friends is coming soon :)

(Judy)are you referring to my holiness or my holey-ness? Was paying you a compliment on your mind...but now that you mention it, the state of your UNholiness deserves a compliment too!

Have called Pandora in Frankfurt, and they never ever heard about Donovan Quick. Probably because this Pandora is a german-only company, and are not connected in any way to the Pandora in Paris. Sorry guys that I can't report better results.

Have conducted scientific research all weekend and have determined BBC's DQ communication strategy. 1. Answer phone. 2. Spin giant wheel (similar to wheel in Wheel of Fortune). 3. Give response indicated on wheel. Responses include: 'We are evaluating the most appropriate time slot,' 'next winter,' 'I've never heard of the project [as is my first day OR am really actress doing undercover work in preparation for next role]', 'early next year,' and 'after the Queen Mum passes on'. 4. If caller has made several inquiries and all wheel responses have been used at least twice, switch to Magic Eight Ball mode.

Inspired by Eileen's magnificent theory about the communication strategy, here is my attempt at a conspiracy theory about the suppression of DQ. Just as they were about to slot it into the schedules after it was made, some bigwig asked: "What's this one about?" Finding out it was a sideswipe at privatisation, and being a Blairite toady, he instantly quashed it. Reason: Blair, widely expected to stop the privatising or even reverse some of it, has seemingly picked up the Conservative baton and continued. So, even for Labour supporters, it's now not politically correct to slate the policy. However, a brave (possibly female) executive, with a taste for decent dramas and actors, has an agenda to get DQ aired, and occasionally tries to slip it into the forward schedules before it gets taken out again (hence the confusing messages). Of course, she even managed to get it shown in Australia. Her latest scheme was to propose a drama with CF playing Tony Blair, to show all New Labour lackeys that YDB was really on-message and could do no wrong, thus increasing the chance of getting DQ out. With the right comment from CF about the possibility of playing Blair (e.g. "to play such a historic figure would be the pinnacle of my career"), we would have had seasons of CF films, repeats of P&P, and a South Bank Festival Extravaganza devoted to the Worth of Firth. Sadly, all has failed so far, and the next move may be an assassination of the pig-headed BBC bigwig (or even Blair).

I like it Mark, heehee.

Brilliant, Mark!

There's only one way I can think of (perhaps, because my mind only works in devious ways) to flush DQ out. I can't do it because I don't get BBC. Any brave ones?

Great Stuff, Mark! And I'm not really laughin', 'cause there might be lots of truth in the political side of what you said.It seems conspiratorial alright. One wonders if ITV or Film Four would have shown it by now.

LOL! Full marks, Mark...;-) Karen, so what's your plan again? (Tag!)

How about this for a hypothesis? DQ is based on life of real SOB, who is still alive and powerful. SOB exerts all his (considerable) influence to prevent showing. This article is from the Sunday Mail, a Scottish paper. It was published on January 30 of this year. QUICK...WARN BRIAN SOUTER; Can ruthless star in TV's Donovan Quick be based on our own pious tycoon? GAVIN DOCHERTY EXCLUSIVE HERE'S the story so far... a ruthless bus tycoon uses every trick in the book to drive his small-time rivals off the roads of quiet Scottish towns. Quite how Brian Souter, whose real-life Stagecoach empire has made him the richest man in Scotland, will view a certain new TV drama series, we may never know. But the BBC believe that millions of other viewers will soon be gripped by Donovan Quick. The series follows the efforts of bus boss George Mackie and his Windmill Transport empire to crush their opposition, and is named after a local hero who stands up to Windmill's multi- national might. Fundamentalist Christian Brian Souter, who is leading the campaign to keep Section 28, is known to love nothing more than a quality television drama. But he might not love this one. Despite reassurances by the BBC, there are plenty of people who suspect he might find this tale a little too close for comfort. Pride and Prejudice heart-throb Colin Firth takes the title role, opposite David Westhead, of Mrs Brown and The Lakes, as the grasping Mackie. The story sees Mackie take over a small transport firm and begin to axe services, including one to a daycentre for the disabled. Enter the charismatic Quick, who, with disabled pal Sandy Pannick (played by David Brown) has the guts to start his own one-bus firm to replace the service. Quick and Pannick are soon so successful they become a target for Mackie, who tries to poach their route. The BBC have high hopes for the series, scripted by Donna Franceschild and directed by David Blair, the team who came up with the award-winning Takin' Over the Asylum. They are billing it as one of their most emotive dramas of recent years. Interestingly for a work of fiction, documentary filmmaker John Mair was brought in as a consultant. Mair's hard-hitting films include two which may have helped him in that role. The first was his damning World in Action expos of Souter's business practices, Cowboy Country. The second was an equally critical Frontline Scotland probe�Stagecoach Comes to Town�which so infuriated Souter he spent pounds 70,000 placing ads in the Scottish Press to rubbish the programme. Does Mair detect a whiff of Souter in fictional bus boss Mackie? "I couldn't say," he says. "I saw it at a cast screening. It is brilliant. Very good indeed. It is very clever. It is Blair and Franceschild on song. "It is brought up to date with a large bus company which we are ever allowed to name." Meanwhile, Chicago-born Franceschild, who now lives in Argyll, stressed that Donovan Quick was simply about the tension between "big capitalism and little people". She said: "Writers take inspiration from many things. Basically, I wanted to write about big companies that kind of squash small people. "That was what interested me. Bus deregulation and train franchises were part of that picture in the Eighties. "Margaret Thatcher's kind of capitalism encouraged that rampant steamrolling of everybody in your path. �Donovan Quick is very contemporary because the situation where the big national company wipes out the little guy has now reached grotesque proportions. "But I was never interested in going after anybody in particular. I wouldn't like to say that I had." As the movie-men�and the BBC's lawyers�say: "The people and events portrayed are entirely fictional. "Any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental..." ------- P.S. After reading this article, a friend of us all told me that DQ was shown on Australian TV this year right after the network got a new director. This guy used to be the head of BBC Scotland. Thus far, Australia is the [i]only[/i] place where DQ has been shown. Anne

This whole sorry DQ mess, if it is indeed political, reminds me of the fate of Tumbledown. BBC again. DQ is the best thing CF has done in years - since Tumbledown, as a matter of fact, IMO.

so what's your plan again? Actually, it does involve these suppositions about Souter's involvement as in the above article. Threatening to take this info to the press, saying that they are bowing to political or financial pressure and have wasted taxpayers' money. Press would love to hear how the BBC cannot *find* a slot for DQ.

Do you remember I wrote to the BBC some days ago: here is the reply Thank you for taking the time to contact us At the present time we have no plans to show "Donovan Quick" the film. However please be assured that your request has been noted for the attention of our schedulers. Finally you will be pleased to know that our drama series of the same title is due to return in 2001, although transmission dates have yet to be confirmed. thank you again for the taking the time to write. Cathy McNeill, BBC Information - e-mail info@bbc.co.uk Well what do you make of that - I have written again telling her I am utterly confused - and is Colin Firth in the Series!

Please ask what is meant by "return." Had it ever been there before in any of its incarnations? ;-D Have figured it out. Is a shell game.

I wrote again to this BBC lady asked that very question. Perhaps I will receive a reply. Told her there were many people with whom I have contact longing to see it - and how well it was received in Oz. Although I think the comments about Brian Souter are very relevant indeed. He's a nasty piece of work and has a lot of power. Has recently upset the apple cart by holding a private referendum in Scotland about Article 28 to do with teaching of sex, homosexuality in Schools and some 1,000,000 people agreed with him against the Labour Government - enough to frighten Tony Blair and Co. eh. BBC is I believe controlled by the Labour Government as Tony Blair and Co. have appointed a stalwart New Labour man in Greg Dyke. In my opinion that is.

From my ill-informed American vantage point, I can't see how Brian Souter could possibly stop the airing or influence the BBC from airing DQ. The program can't even be construed as libelous, when it so clearly is about Thatcherism. Besides, over here, the networks would have a field day with this and the program would garner more free publicity as a result, which is good and something which would be maximized. Of course, I don't know !@$$ from Shinola, as we would say. ;-D

Karen its beyond my comprehension too. Here in Australia it would also be shown in the same way as the U.S. But thats the theory and strange as though it may seem - they (the BBC) are afraid of this guy and the government - I will let you know when the BBC reply again if they ever do. But truly they have no idea what they are talking about half the time.

"Margaret Thatcher's kind of capitalism encouraged that rampant steamrolling of everybody in your path. The program can't even be construed as libelous, when it so clearly is about Thatcherism. For once capitalism worked on the side of the down-trodden, and it was Thatcher's idea. Why would Labour like it? Thanks, Anne. Keep us informed. There is a lot of confusing news on the part of the BBC.

Labour would like this program as it exposed the disregard the Conservative government had for the people. Therefore, there's no reason IMO why Labour or the BBC would bow to pressure from Souter. Tumbledown was different. It was blatantly anti-government and aired while that government was in control.

Thanks to both AnneH & AnneR, perhaps the Sunday Mail may be interested to know the BBC is dragging its fee with DQ. Perhaps we in the UK should all write to the Sunday Mail and let them look into it!

Labour would like this program as it exposed the disregard the Conservative government had for the people. What would happen if another DQ came along now? It would be worse. (I will now go back to the planning of DBs birthday party, politics are a bore). :-)

Thanks for writing the BBC and sharing your response, Anne. But truly they have no idea what they are talking about half the time. You can say that again. (BBC) Finally you will be pleased to know that our drama series of the same title is due to return in 2001, although transmission dates have yet to be confirmed. *clickclickclick* [spinning wheel, round and round...]

Perhaps we in the UK should all write to the Sunday Mail and let them look into it! We in the UK should all write to ALL dailies and weeklies and send them a copy of that article with a request, nay, demand that they investigate it further in the name of TV license payers - since the people manning the BBC customer/viewer service do not seem to know much about this film. And it wouldn't hurt if you out there in the wide world joined us and emailed as many relevant email addresses as we can find. Start rolling them now!

AnneR thanks for posting that article it was all new to me. AnneH thanks for sharing the reply with us and also for that info ,it wasn't until you mentioned Article 28 that I was able to place him. After reading all this latest nonsense from the BBC I'm ready to indulge in a spot of BBC baiting myself. Series? what the *$@* are they talking about? they're stupid enough to confuse it with Jonathan Creek:-D

I have had another letter re: D.Q. from the B.B.C. - she actually really looked this time - even quoted what the story was about to me. Then suggested my friends in the U.K. keep looking out for it on the listings and programmes etc. She was quite polite and at least did a little research re it. I wrote again praising D.Q. to the hilt and how privileged we had been in Australia for it to have been premiered here. So someone hopefully after this will now take it out of the archives, dust it down and perhaps put it on in the next six months!

Re Souter - the fear that the Labour Govnt. would have is his power over the voters in Scotland after his referendum - they would not want to offend him further!!!!! Can't afford to be courageous - re Yes Minister.

Re Souter - the fear that the Labour Govnt. would have is his power over the voters in Scotland after his referendum - they would not want to offend him further!!!!! Can't afford to be courageous - re Yes Minister.

Thanks for all the info/action on DQ! I'm hoping that the BBC are just incompetent and indifferent, and that there's no political agenda, and that they will show it early new year. Otherwise it's well worth writing to the press about this...Scottish newspapers, Baz. B in the Mail, Private Eye (the Media column) You can also complain to the PCU which investigates complaints against the BBC. It's hard to see why DQ shd be suppressed...it's not cutting edge drama, more of a fable about two innocents abroad, Donovan and Sandy, which also takes a very positive look at overcoming mental disability (the "actor" playing Sandy has a learning disability...in effect, he's playing himself, a wonderful performance). But there are parallels with between Windmill and Stagecoach, and Brian Souter of Stagecoach is not a man to cross. Labour, and Gregg Dyke, Labour's appointee at the helm of the BBC, could well be frightened of him, especially with an election looming. He heads the Rich list in Scotland, and his sister, Ann Gloag, is listed as the richest woman in the UK (ahead of the Queen!). Stagecoach was worth �4.5 billion but shares have plummeted recently. I read something about Stagecoach on the net...they were well known in the early days for bullyboy techniques and for behaving close to the legal knuckle.They would slash prices on routes, drive out the opposition, and the raise prices to former levels. They would also "sandwich"...run a bus ahead and behind on the route. When Souter's ex brother-in-law set up his own bus company, Stagecoach forced him out of business. The name "Ann Gloag" isn't a million miles from the name Ann Gorman, used in DQ. BTW it's easy to complain about the non-scheduling of DQ, so that the complaint is actually included in a monthly briefing to BBC executives (hopefully!) Check into http://www.bbc.co.uk/info/contact/com_email.shtml There's a form ...all you have to type in is the name of the programme, no transmission date, your name and email, and then your complaint. Takes a minute. I just said I was very disappointed that DQ had not been included in the Autumn schedules, as it was completed in April 99, etcetera, and has been shown in Australia.

Go to it!

Have checked the movie listings for both LA and Palm Springs and don't see Fever Pitch.

SD is doing "The Cazolet Chronicles"(four books!) a 5 Mil. UKP BBC production...five episodes this year and more in the next two years...to be shown in 2001. [Hey ,maybe there's a part for ODB..with all those episodes one surely would fit in with his work regimen;-)]

sorry for italics...

From yesterday's LA Times, from Anne R.: The Laemmle Theaters' "World Cinema 2000" series commences at the Monica 4- Plex, 1332 2nd St., Santa Monica, with Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. screenings of David Evans' "Fever Pitch," an amiable sports-romance comedy loosely based on Nick Hornby's autobiography. It really helps to be a soccer fanatic to become involved in this tale of a laid-back London high school teacher (Colin Firth) and an uptight colleague (Ruth Gemmell) who prove that opposites do attract--and whose romance is further challenged by Firth's primary allegiance to his favorite soccer team, which just may end its 18-year losing streak. "Fever Pitch" screens Sept. 16-17 at 10 a.m. at the Sunset 5, 8000 Sunset Blvd., and Sept. 23-24 at 11 a.m. at the Playhouse 7, 673 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Information for the Monica: (310) 394-9741; Sunset: (323) 848-3500; Playhouse: (626) 844-6500.

Shoot! Should've searched on "news" and not "events/venues." I hate the LA Times' setup. ;-D So the Phaedra people aren't entirely wrong, but was supposed to be playing this weekend in Palm Springs and the Hollywood (Sunset) Laemmle theater.

And the weekly RV listing: 1. Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Aberystwyth 2. Poole Arts Centre, Poole 3. ARC, Stockton-on-Tees 4. UCI 10, Tamworth 5. Light House, Wolverhampton 6. Regent, Christchurch 7. Guildhall Arts Centre, Gloucester 8. Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy 9. Croydon Fairfield Halls, London 10. Plymouth Arts Centre, Plymouth 11. Watermans Arts Centre, London

[Hey ,maybe there's a part for ODB..with all those episodes one surely would fit in with his work regimen;-)] I don't think his work regimen is of his own chosing....he can't be happy "haunting the shadows" or playing cameos. And he deserves so much better. IMHO the BBC are treating him shamefully. He can act, and deserves to get leaading roles!

I've been away from this board for awhile --- too long to digest all the twists and turns of the BBC in a single reading. I think it's great that people have written and called to ask for an explanation. I hope you get to see it soon. I wonder if it will ever make its way over here to North America? As I said, I haven't had a chance to do more than skim, so I apologize if this has already been answered. But, I was wondering Bethan, the form looks like it's intended for British tv viewers. (Understandably. It doesn't really make sense for me to complain to the BBC about them not airing it, since I live in another country and I don't get the BBC.) What would anyone suggest as a possible action in that case? I suppose we could question our own public television stations, asking if they intend to purchase it?

Another thought: it's also possible to voice our disgruntlement as an international group. Could we not make up our own standard electronic form --- a sort of international petition --- as Colin Firth supporters around the world, simply demanding this film be in circulation and accessible to the world?Then people could fill out the form if they chose to. Potentially, the BBC could be deluged with emails from as many Firth fansites as chose to get involved. Anyway, I'm only throwing out ideas and would really like some constructive/ better strategies about what I can do. I do think that looking like an organized body of people gets you further, but I don't pretend to be politically savvy.

I think anyone can fill in the form...all you need to put is your name and email address, and ask about acheduling. No need to put where you live. To be honest, I think that DQ will eventually be shown "in the winter", whenever that is. The BBC moves in mysterious ways. I just can't believe that it would be regarded as "political" and suppressed. But questions about the scheduling can certainly be asked. As Anne said, go to it!

Just incase it seems that I'm always posting news of things that aren't going to happen, the "Blackadder" film is being shown on Sky (with repeats) in October, and the "Speaking with the angel" tape is read by the individual authors (a double cassette) and is available as advertised, November 2nd. CF is included the Times birthday list of the great and good...he's the youngest in the list by nearly 20 years.

"Speaking with the angel" tape is read by the individual authors What source are you citing for this? Waterstone's has just listed it, without readers' names, Amazon has not changed its, and nothing exists at the publisher's site. Of course, I do think that each will do his/her own reading.

You are all cordially invited to Colin Firth's 40th Birthday Party Sunday September 10th at www.colinfirth.com Topic 110: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/110.366

You are all cordially invited to Colin Firth's 40th Birthday Party Sunday September 10th at www.colinfirth.com Topic 110: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/110.366