Tracy, I also watched "Blackadder". My son (huge "Blackadder" fan, which I'm not particularly ) really enjoyed it. I thought it was okay, but I never had very high expectations of a 30 minute whizz thru' history for the Dome. And I knew it waa a CF cameo-cameo (a quarter of a day's work?). The actor who played Napoleon - Simon Something- is very well known from the theatre (so well known that I can't remember his name!) No need to duck....I agree with the "p****" word! :-) But one thing that puzzles me is how manages to look so different. He'd just completed DQ and "Londinium" when he did this, and it's just a couple of months after the stint at the Donmar, and he's rake thin in all of these, and much younger looking. Ditto RV which he did immediately afterwards. I think it's a combination of costume, hair, broad shoulders and facial expression (grim)....but he can make himself almost unrecognisable. Liked the line about Shakespeare being the man who invented the ballpoint pen! What I really want to know is how come it cost �3million to make? Dome type inflation?

(Bethan) The actor who played Napoleon - Simon Something- is very well known from the theatre (so well known that I can't remember his name!) Shame shame ;-D (do not read this Donna)You mean the actor who is currently proclaimed as the greatest Hamlet?? He'd just completed DQ and "Londinium" when he did this, and it's just a couple of months after the stint at the Donmar, and he's rake thin in all of these, and much younger looking. Is it not evident?

(Karen) (do not read this Donna) You mean the actor who is currently proclaimed as the greatest Hamlet?? Oh dear, you mean this fellow? LOL, what can I say?

(Eileen) Speaking of Valmont, those of you who've seen Almost Famous, what do you think of Fairuza's looks? Hope those chipped front teeth were fake. ;-) Maybe it was from all that pen chewing in the letter-writing scene?;-) To me, she looked like you'd expect her character to look, though in the beginning I was getting her and Anna Paquin's characters confused; they must have gotten a twofer on the wigs.;-) "Opie must die!!!!" LOL!

Is it not evident? Wouldn't know it was the same man. Well, he *is* a character actor, after all. :-) I didn't recognise Simon Russell Bealle either (thanks Karen and Donna) until I saw the credits. But I don't think I'll ever get a chance to re-scrutinise "Blackadder" as my son has taken the tape to school to "lend" to his pals. That's the real target audience (not P&P fans)! There's a movie called "Billy Elliot", directed by Stephen Daldry, which is getting a lot of raves over here (although some reviews aren't entirely positive), plus the all important hype and build up ("will make millions" etc). Same genre as DQ....dysfunctional working class family, fighting against the odds, batty grandmother. Was filmed after DQ and I'm sure will be hugely successful. If only the BBC could manage to give DQ some promotion...has a good pedigree...award-winning director/writer etc. This type of movie is definitely "in" at the moment. Don't they the understand the importance of marketing and the negative significance of keeping something on the shelf for nearly 2 years? (Answer...NO!!) Lokk forward to any info you can glean from the Chicago Fest, Karen!

Oh dear I do not seem to be able to cut and paste today! So re Bethan's post above. I don't quite understand why it was shown at the Dork film festival and was then shelved for so long. If their strategy was to market it as a feature film why not just go for it? Or just show it on television. A mystery.

*Dork* No offence meant :-) That should of course say Cork

Anyone here from the San Francisco area? Thanks to Anne R. for this: The Mill Valley Film Festival will be showing Relative Values on the BIG screen on Wednesday, Oct. 11, at the Cinema in Corte Madera. Show time is 7 p.m. For tickets call (415) 455-8005. For program information and ticket availability call (415) 383-5346. A complete schedule is online at www.mvff.com

From the PA: Blackadder proves a ratings hit once again The first new Blackadder episode for 11 years has proved a ratings winner for Sky TV. A 45-minute special made for the Millennium Dome attracted around 1.4million viewers when it was shown on Sky One on Sunday night. Blackadder Back And Forth was watched by 14% of people who have access to the channel, according to provisional overnight figures. The episode reunited stars Rowan Atkinson, Tony Robinson, Stephen Fry, Hugh Lawrie, Miranda Richardson and Rik Mayal for a time-travelling journey through British history. ******** Am certain that huge viewing numbers were due to unlisted cast member. ;-D

(Tracy) I'm afraid there was evidence of Cornel's "p" word Have only seen snappies (featuring stick-like legs) so I'll take your word for it. (Bethan) He'd just completed DQ and "Londinium" when he did this, and it's just a couple of months after the stint at the Donmar, and he's rake thin in all of these, and much younger looking. Ditto RV which he did immediately afterwards. Could be the costume. Or else he must go on this amazing fat and carbo-loading diet when he's not working (which wasn't long last year). Yikes! Wonder what he looks like now? Hope he's sticking with Cornel's regimen. ;-P (Karen) Am certain that huge viewing numbers were due to unlisted cast member. Writer of blurb clearly did not recognize him. ;-) (Bethan) There's a movie called "Billy Elliot", directed by Stephen Daldry, which is getting a lot of raves over here Is that the one about the boy who becomes a ballet dancer? If so, I saw an ad for it yesterday. Opens with "from the team who brought you 4W&AF and NH..."

(Allison) *Dork* No offence meant :-) That should of course say Cork LOL! I must admit I was wondering for a minute if the word *dork* has another meaning across the pond. Had visions of a Jim Carrey retrospective (the AVPD movies, D&D, etc.). ;-) Perhaps the festival of stuttering mastubatory perverts? ;-)

Eileen - Have only seen snappies (featuring stick-like legs) so I'll take your word for it Yes, stick-like legs but also powerful Bjorn Borg-type shoulders, v. confusing combination! Many other have probably said this before but - putting mad hairstyles and unfortunate facial hair aside, it never fails to amaze me just how cameleon-like this guy can be - witness the amazing transformation from Walker to Ned (3DOR)..all it takes is a pair of specs and a tub of lard and "Bingo!" - goodbye, hunk in cuddly green jumper..hello, geek in a cardie! No wonder I have so much trouble with colleagues pointing to my 'wallpaper' (photo same as that which adorns drool page) and saying 'who's that?' - have given up trying to explain that he is Mr Darcy and yet is Paul Ashworth too. (So many other actors are always the same, always themselves - even when not playing floppy-haired, bumbling, love-struck Englishmen - now who could I mean.) Perhaps this knack could be put down to, what I think he is quoted as saying is, his neutrality - in addition to superior acting skills - which go without saying.

(Tracy) Yes, stick-like legs but also powerful Bjorn Borg-type shoulders, v. confusing combination! I felt the same way when I saw him as Wessex in SIL, as he looked so portly in the film. V. v. confusing. As for his chameleon-like qualities, I am embarrassed to admit that when I first saw TEP on the big screen, I didn't recognize CF (Now I need to run for cover from the tomatoes, I fear! This was pre-Drool for me, and I had only seen ODB in P&P2) until I saw the credits at the end. (I know, how could I miss that voice�*wince*) Boy, did that get my attention!

For all those in the UK who have yet to see MLSF, it will definitely be available for rental on November 27th. (This probably means that RV will also be available for rental on November 20th.)

(Bethan) (This probably means that RV will also be available for rental on November 20th.) What makes you say that?

(Tracy) Perhaps this knack could be put down to, what I think he is quoted as saying is, his neutrality - in addition to superior acting skills - which go without saying. For him, the transformation is just as much internal as external. I had just been glancing through some old interviews, and I was surprised how often he says "I" when talking about his current character, whoever it was. I think he somehow just "becomes" somebody else when necessary. His identification with the character is so total, that he just leaves ol' Colin behind temporarily. (No wonder he gets a little nervous about his profession occasionally!) :-) KJ

(Mari) What makes you say that? Because those are the dates blackstar has for those videos going on sale at "rental-type" prices. I believe Bethan posted that earlier. (KJ, unless she'd prefer being called something else of her own choice) ;-D His identification with the character is so total I smell another "method acting" discussion...

I smell another "method acting" discussion... I do not. Method acting is so over-rated.

Just saw an ad in my local paper that Starz will be free this weekend (for Time Warner Cable). Maybe this is a national thing. Am wondering if they will also run an introductory special rate so that we Americans can sign up for a month and tape RV.

(Lisa) Just saw an ad in my local paper that Starz will be free this weekend Too bad it's a few weekends too soon. *tsk*

Speaking of the Chicago Film Festival, I noticed this and thought ODB would be perfect: Organizers of the Chicago International Film Festival are attempting to find a replacement for Goldie Hawn, who reportedly accepted an invitation to be the festival's honoree, then changed her mind at the last minute, the Chicago Tribune reported Tuesday. The festival, which is due to open on Thursday, has scheduled its annual gala on Oct. 21, where the actor or actress selected to be honored will be introduced. (from IMDb) apologies if this belongs on Odds and Ends.

I got *unofficial* confirmation today from A&E that Colin is doing Armadillo. Production is already underway. As we had heard, it will be a 2-parter, written by William Boyd and produced by Sue Birtwistle. They anticipate it will air in the U.S. on A&E next fall. (I'm guessing the BBC will air it first, but not sure.) Keep an eye on the trades--Variety, Hollywood Reporter--as there will be a press release, but they wouldn't say when.

(The Other Karen)...(KJ, unless she'd prefer being called something else of her own choice) ;-D Not really. Like I say, just not "Late for Dinner". (KJ)His identification with the character is so total ...(Other Karen)... I smell another "method acting" discussion... Method acting, schmethod acting. I'm not talking about theory or application or "How to do -- in 10 Easy Lessons..." acting. I'm talking about What happens to ODB when he's acting, which is personal to every actor, I'm sure. I'm just fascinated with the tendency of his *apparently* being Colin and then saying "I" when referring to, say, Edward P. in the middle of an interview.... ;-) KJ

Mari - I got "unofficial confirmation today that Colin is doing Armadillo Thanks Mari you have made my day, but I wll still keep my fingers crossed until it is official.

Maybe we'll be able to find out more about DQ's future when they're in LA, unless someone wants to give a few disgruntled employees in Paris a ring...I'll give you some names of people who have brushed me off. ;-D Pandora says au revoir to Paris By Cathy Dunkley and Charlie Masters Pandora, the foreign sales and production company headed by chairman Christian Bourguignon and president Ernst Goldschmidt, has shuttered its Paris-based operations after a restructuring. The move comes in the wake of Gaylord Entertainment's acquisition of the company and its desire to concentrate Pandora's corporate and business operations in Los Angeles. The move follows the announcement of Gaylord's overall four-year co-financing and distribution deal with Warner Bros. and the appointment of veteran producer Hunt Lowry to head Gaylord Films and Pandora (HR 9/15). Bourguignon and Goldschmidt have stepped down from their former posts. Goldschmidt remains a consultant to Pandora, which will remain as the specialty prestige label of Gaylord. The majority of the staff under Goldschmidt in Paris also is expected to leave the company. Pandora's senior vp worldwide sales Shebnem Askin will relocate to Los Angeles from Paris. Established in 1982, Pandora began as a distributor of international television programming. Specializing in film and TV programming for international markets, Pandora's projects include "Shine," "Kolya," "Like Water for Chocolate" and "Maybe Baby." Its recent film "Donnie Darko," written and directed by Richard Kelly and co-produced with Flower Films, will be previewed to domestic and international buyers at the London Screenings and MIFED. The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, Drew Barrymore, Noah Wyle and Patrick Swayze.

(Mari) I got *unofficial* confirmation today from A&E that Colin is doing Armadillo. Ahhh, news at last! Good job, Mari! Even unofficial news is better than no news (but thanks for making the distinction).

Mari - I got "unofficial" confirmation today that Colin is doing Armadillo Hallelujah! Unofficial or not, it's news and that's what matters - well scooped Mari, you've made my day!

Yes, Armadillo's been a "possible" for so long now. Nice to see it's graduated to the "probable". Lisa, I ordered my Starz! today ;-). Expect to cancel it, oh, in about a month.

Thanks Mari! Great news! I'd been holding my breath about this. The weather has been surprisingly mild and sunny over here...ideal for any outside location work. I think "Armadillo" is a great project for Colin. Milo/Lorimer is on every single page - the action follows him. If it's a two parter, it will probably be about 3 1/2 to 4 hours long...and no fastforwarding required! I'm very happy that Sue Birtwhistle is working with CF again. I'm sure she'll protect his interests....he must have a close relationship with her, and her husband, Richard Eyre (now Sir Richard!) (who directed "Tumbledown). Unlike David ("me") Puttnam, who never mentioned the cast once, despite hundreds of (boring) interviews! Evelyn, I know it's TV, but it's quality TV, and it will be seen by millions. You might get it first in the US..."Madam Bovary" aired first in the US, a few months later in the UK. I'm glad that there's an A&E collaboration. I no longer trust the BBC!! They're showing a BBC film "Care" (all about child abuse, which i'd rather not watch, thank you) on Sunday, BBC1 9.00pm, which is *the* prime slot. I know that "Care" was filmed after DQ, and yet the Beeb apparently have no difficulty in finding a prime slot for it in the schedules...why not "sometime in 2001". DQ puzzles me..is it a movie (okay, show it at feastivals) or a TV film (okay just show it!) Will email a coomplaint again! Waterstones are stocking up with copies of "Speaking with the angel", book and tape. Thanks Karen...my assumption about the release video dates for RV was based on the Blackstar info. MLSF, according to my very helpful video library/store man is definitely out on Nov 27th. Don't know if will hit Blockbusters in a big way, but they should have one (or two!) copies.

Re: Pandora...Gaylord Entertainment's acquisition of the company They are local Oklahoma people....own half of Nashville. (Bethan)Re; Armadillo..Evelyn, I know it's TV, but it's quality TV I no longer turn my nose up at CF doing British TV...it beats the hell out of the lousy starring movies.He seems to enjoy it and doesn't have to promote it, attend premieres...win/win. Thanks Mari for persevering. (Bethan) I no longer trust the BBC!! And don't ever take the BBC tour of their building and studios on Woods Lane.. Royal waste of time. LOL...I went by to tour the Museum of the Moving Image: Television and Films on the South Bank and found it has been closed....Now does that tell you something???

Mari: This Armadillo news is great! I feel excitement rising again....Thanks. The only thing "wrong" with A&E is that it is cable after all, and the audience will be limited over here, as it was for P&P. I still wish for broader viewing for him. But still, a great book and a great part. So glad.

There is hope for us here!! Did anyone catch the new show The District? "Clive" (David O'Hara) is a regular and he speaks in full Glaswegian Clivespeak! They're conditioning us. ;-D And Peter Firth is a regular on another new show "That's Life" which has the Colin lookalike (Steven Eckhart) on it too. Could Colin be far behind... ;-D

But still, a great book and a great part. So glad. (Mary) Yes, let's hope this is the start of great things to come (TV and movies) and we'll be seeing CF in the roles he really deserves! I'm looking forward to seeing him in a contemporary role again, and looking like himself ... he looks much younger in the shots of him in "real life". Well on the right side of forty. :-)

So Murph, if all goes as planned for Colin, with BJD and Armadillo, will you put your site up again? :-)

Hey, Moon, Karen and others are doing such a great job, I'd be redundant (sp!) Still, it is nice to see good solid news.

(Heide) Lisa, I ordered my Starz! today ;-). Expect to cancel it, oh, in about a month. IMO it's one of the better premium channels available in the US (far better than, say, Cinemax, whose idea of prime time movies is 'Sixteen Candles'). Starz has the best of the recent films, e.g., they aired Onegin when it was still playing in the theaters. You might find it worth the extra $$. (Karen) which has the Colin lookalike (Steven Eckhart) on it too. Hmm. Must check this out. ;-)

Sunlight Productions extends an invitation to Colin Firth fans to a private screening of "Londinium" in Los Angeles and New York tomorrow. "Londinium" stars Colin Firth, Mike Binder, Mariel Hemingway and Irene Jacob and is a cosmopolitan comedy. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10TH 2000 LOS ANGELES 7:30pm Twentieth Century Fox, Zanuck Theater (Pico and Motor) enter at Motor entrance reply to: (310) 565-0217 NEW YORK 6:30pm 59th Street East Cinema (between 2nd and 3rd Avenue) reply to: 212-627-0414 These are private screenings. This invitation is to Colin Firth fans. Kindly forward to fans you know of in Los Angeles and New York and other Firth friends. Thank you and look forward to seeing some of you there! Sunlight Productions

Bring on the Bubbly....is this the distributor? Great News!! Two of ODB's productions premiering this month! WOW...hope we get a report from some kind soul.

Will spread the word, Karen!

It is not a premiere, Evelyn, only a private screening. Is Sunlight Prod. the Binders company, Karen? Mari and Murph, I hope you get to go. And make sure to ask about a release date. And you moved away, Eileen!

Thanks for the news, Karen. I just called and left my name to reserve a ticket. I have to give a presentation at a late afternoon meeting and it will be a squeaker whether or not it's done in time for me to drive across town by 7:30, but I'm going to try. Winter and Marianne, you want to try and hook up?

Yes, Sunlight is the Binders' production company. They are probably showing it to potential distributors. *fingers crossed for HBO* ;-D (sorry, I'm a little light-headed right now)

Not moi, Moon. That's 100+ miles of good road and no way could I be up there after work by 6:30 on short notice. The good news is, it looks like we definitely have some takers from those in the NY area. Jana, I do hope you get to go! Karen, Showtime might be a possibility too--hey, if they bought TSM . . .;-) HBO would be a bigger audience, though. Now, go eat something; sun is already down in the Eastern time zone.:-)

Have called and left my name & phone numbers ... hope to see you there Jana. Not sure, but isn't Winter still in Bali?

I think she's back. Come out, come out, wherever you are, Winter. Her first visit was only for a month and, by my calculations, she should be back. I would accept Showtime too. ;-D (sun's not down here yet)

(Marianne) Have called and left my name & phone numbers ... hope to see you there Jana. Yea! I will keep my eyes peeled for you in manner of H.F. book signing :-). I left my name and numbers on the recording too. I would have preferred to talk to a live body, but if we don't hear anything back by tomorrow I guess we assume no news is good news and that our names will be on some kind of list at the Fox gate. Since there are likely to be potential film distributors there we will have to make sure we are v. enthusiastic about the film and drop lots of comments like, "sure would like to see more of that Firth guy in more films". I hope the film merits at least some of these positive comments so as not to appear as simpleton or similar :-). I'm not worried about Colin mind you, but after viewing "The Sex Monster" am almost afraid of what the Binder bros. have in store for us.

Am keeping my fingers crossed for you girls. Get your glowing comments ready. Mari, how come these things never come to our neck of the woods? :-( May need to move. Eileen, is your house still for sale? Two of ODB's productions premiering this month! Better than that...it's three. DQ, RV and now Londinium.

(JanaJH)drop lots of comments like, "sure would like to see more of that Firth guy in more films". You don't need to do this. This is a ahowing for Colin fans, you can be open about it :-) Go for it, ladies!

Great news Karen! Very short notice though. I'm not worried about Colin mind you, but after viewing "The Sex Monster" am almost afraid of what the Binder bros. have in store for us. (Jana) I always find that when I see CF movies for the first time I so want them to be good that my critical faculties go into overdrive and I notice everything (sometimes more bad than good)! So to make you all more relaxed about the potential horrors of a Binder production, here are some positive notes: One. It was shot last year during six weeks of (almost unprecedented) constant brilliant sunshine in London. MB wanted to make London look good...he's chosen locations like the London parks, the British Museum, the South Bank Complex (National Theatre) and Little Venice. Even if the direction is uninspired (!), it should be very easy on the eye, and it will be good to see London as a cultured, romantic city rather than some drab gangland battlefield (as usually depicted in Brit movies). The cinematography, I think, is by the person who did "Mrs Dalloway", a very good film in the old-fashioned sense. Two: CF seems to be heading the billing now! Three: Stephen Fry is always good value. Four: Jack Dee is unknown in the States, but very popular here, especially with "youf" (My sons rate him with Ali G!). He's always looks miserable, and has a totally deadpan delivery. Five: Irene Jakob is beautiful and talented. She's currently in the news in the UK as she is going to be appear in the West End for the first time (she does a lot of theatre work in Paris). Six: Alan Rickman and Juliet Stevenson have just starred in a Mike Binder written/directed movie, so MB can't be all that bad, can he? (Or maybe AR/JS thoughht "Hey, MB's just done a movie with CF/I/SF...can't be all that bad, can he?) Seven: I liked Mariel Hemingway in that Woody Allen movie. Haven't seen her recently. So, go to it. Enjoy! Look for the positive and give it a good reception. no matter what!! BTW I didn't expect it to be selected for the London Film Festival. It's too non-arty, middle of the road. And probably critics won't like the romanticised view of London (people going to the theatre, sitting in the park, instead of drug pushers, prostitutes, corpses etc)

(Bethan), Even if the direction is uninspired (!), it should be very easy on the eye, and it will be good to see London as a cultured, romantic city rather than some drab gangland battlefield (as usually depicted in Brit movies). I didn't expect it to be selected for the London Film Festival. It's too non-arty, middle of the road. And probably critics won't like the romanticised view of London (people going to the theatre, sitting in the park, instead of drug pushers, prostitutes, corpses etc) I agree! It is about time to give London a change of scenery. (Karen), They are probably showing it to potential distributors. (Gi), This is a ahowing for Colin fans, you can be open about it :-) I agree with Karen. Inviting CF fans is one way to fill the theatres on a short notice. Potential buyers like to see that. So by all means praise the DB. Jana and Marianne, so glad you are going. In all hopefullness, we will get the East and West coast reports. :-) Winter, are you back?

(Moon) Inviting CF fans is one way to fill the theatres on a short notice. Potential buyers like to see that. Exactly! It's *our* job to create good buzz, good audience reaction. Talk it up, ladies. Stuff like: "I know all my friends are going to love this film; wonder when it will open. I must tell them!!"

BTW I didn't expect it to be selected for the London Film Festival. It's too non-arty, middle of the road. They showed SLOW twice last year....hmmm...wonder what category that would fit in;-) Does Max Binder make "middle of the road films'?I...don't...think....so...

Well, he certainly doesn't fit into the category of "young African female filmmakers," does he? More like "Woody-Allen-Wannabees" ;-D

Waddaya know, there is life in Londinium! (Moon) And you moved away, Eileen! Oh, well, them's the breaks. I was up there last weekend, too. *sigh* Lousy timing. (Heide) Eileen, is your house still for sale? Nope, sold it last spring. But I'll see what I can do if CF comes to B'way. ;-) (Bethan) CF seems to be heading the billing now! Naturally, since the message was directed to CF fans. Sounds good to me anyway. (Moon) Inviting CF fans is one way to fill the theatres on a short notice. Are there enough of us to fill theaters? I don't know about that, especially on short notice. That said, we better have a bigger turnout than the private showing for Mike Binder fans. ;-P Thanks for posting the news, Karen (while fasting on your day of atonement). Looking forward to reading reports from the lucky attendees.

Good reports from NY: The film is funny, sexy, romantic, and Colin is great in it!

Presenting the London Londinium screenings!!! London, UK � Tuesday, October 24th, 2000 at 14.00 ABC Panton Street, Theater 2 London, UK � Thursday, October 26th, 2000 at 15.45 ABC Panton Street, Theater 1 See if you can get in by emailing this, with subject should be: RSVP Londinium Screening londinium@sunlightproductions.com

While we await the polls closing in California, am going to post some of the comments on the Spoilers to Current Firth Productions Topic #126. See you there!

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Thanks for the information on London screenings Karen. I have e-mailed.

Help - Can someone please tell me the nearest Underground Station to Panton Street as I cannot find Panton Street on my London Map.

Leicester Square or Picadilly Circus. Have e-mailed you.

Ohhhh I am grrrrreen ...and to think I missed it by a few weeks....:-(( Have a wonderful time, girls! Who else in UK is going?

Mark, I hope you can make it. We enjoy your reports so much!

Yes, I shall try and make it. Hope to see you there briefly, Ann & Aishling. But I will not be able to linger as that will be my (long) lunch break on a potentially very busy day.

Maybe, just maybe, I could make it on Thursday. I have promised a visit to my sister and I'd better not wait too long. I have e-mailed her to see if it works out for her. I'm glad the screenings are in the afternoon. This way I can still make it to Cambridge the same evening and won't have to spend the night in London.

I can honestly say that I had no regrets in missing last night�s episodes of Buffy and Angel for Londinium. From all the talk about Mike Binder�s background as actor, writer, producer???, I was pleasantly surprised with how good the film was. Ok, my perceptions of the movie � 1) Mariel Hemingway looks old � old and tired � couldn�t they afford a good make-up person to do something about her eyes. 2) London is beautiful! 3) What bald spot? Ok, there was one scene where there does seem as if there is one, but otherwise his hair is perfect � dark, thick, full, stylish. 4) What weight problem? If anything he seems thin, especially his arms � he should do some arm curls. And maybe get a tan, just a little color, so he doesn�t appear so pale. Ok, ok, I�m from L.A., and I�m used to a certain superficial type here ;-) 5 CF did not have much of a wardrobe. He seemed to be always wearing a dark (greenish/brown/drab) corduroy jacket. Even in bed, he had on a black t-shirt (during both marriages). 6) CF and IJ make a beautiful couple. 7) One of my favorite scenes is when CF tells MH the reason why he doesn�t want to have sex with her. It�s because he�s bloated � and gassy (after eating a huge meat pie). I thought that scene was hilarious. 8) CF is an amazing actor. Any scene with him in it enlivened the movie. And to be fair to Mike Binder, he actually came up with a movie that gave equal time to all four major characters. CF gets 2nd billing, but it was done in alphabetical order. He plays a sexually repressed??? producer. There is a whole arc where he goes from being uncomfortable around the talk of sex to where he becomes an embodiment of romantic passion back to being uncomfortable with intimacy and then for the sake of his wife, back. Am I giving away too much? Did I mention it was a good movie?

(Mari) Good reports from NY: The film is funny, sexy, romantic Goody! *clap clap* and Colin is great in it! *sigh* He always is, isn't he? Here's hoping a distributor picks it up (preferably one which will include Philly, Chicago, anywhere in OK or TX and DC ;-)). *fingers crossed*

Am I giving away too much? (Marianne) Nope! I'm one of these awful people who read the end of the book first. But I wouldn't want to spoil it for other folk. I have to ask though...does he get married twice? Does he actually get to act sexy (as opposed to the repressed Englishman), and does he get to kiss IJ? (with enthusiasm, I hope!) I thought they made an ideal couple in MLSF...would like to see them finally get together!

Please take these *spoilers* to 126. Some have been discussed there already. Thanks.

ok, am off to 126

Marianne, thanks for your report--so glad you got to go! I have the same spoiler questions as Bethan, but also 2 others: --Were there any studio or TV suits there, i.e., anybody who looked like they'd be in a position to buy this?:-) --What was the audience reaction and were you asked to fill out any comment cards? (the people in NY weren't).

Hi everyone, I'm sorry I'm so tardy. Work has been a zoo today so this will be quick, but I promise I will write more at the Spoilers topic as time allows. Just a couple of general tidbits here.... 1. The screening was handled very professionally for which I was grateful. We did not get any confirmation after leaving our names on a recorded message and since the screening was on a movie lot with scads of security I was really dreading having to try and gain admittance by confessing I got my invitation from a Firth fan club :-). Luckily that wasn't necessary and it was fun to see the film at the lot. 2. V.v.fun to see Marianne again! We arrived about at the same time and were able to sit together. The theatre was quite large and almost full by the time the movie started. Perhaps the Binder's have a lot of friends :-)? 3. I was surprised that there was no announcement or discussion at the beginning or end of the film. The lights just went down, movie showed and everyone left. Did any reps from Sunlight speak at the NY showing? 4. Overall I was pleasantly surprised and the movie was better than I expected. I don't want to excite your anticipation too much - it's not a GREAT FILM or anything like that. But it's a clever, frothy romantic comedy and there were several lines that made me chuckle. I thought the writing and premise were much snappier than The Sex Monster. I'm not sure if I was prejudiced because Colin was in it or not. 5. Colin has a big part and looks great, although I prefer him without the beard. He gets to show a lot of ranges of emotion alhtough I found the character he was playing to be a bit too wimpy to lust over. V. funny and excellent acting though. All in all, it's a pretty decent part with good dialogue (as long as you remember that the movie itself is very light, fluffy entertainment). 6. I really enjoyed the rest of the cast as well. Irene Jacob was charming and Mariel was actually funnier than I've seen her before. I especially liked the supporting cast. Stephen Fry and Jack Dee were hilarious and added a lot in smaller roles. 7. Bethan, you were absolutely correct about the setting and locations used. (sorry - too pressed for time to go up and find and copy your post that mentioned this). But bottom line, London looked gorgeous. Sunny, shiny and a must see travel destination. I guess that's it for now. I'll try and stop by the other topic later but feel free to throw out any questions.

(Mari) I have the same spoiler questions as Bethan, but also 2 others: --Were there any studio or TV suits there, i.e., anybody who looked like they'd be in a position to buy this?:-) --What was the audience reaction and were you asked to fill out any comment cards? (the people in NY weren't). No comment cards in LA either. Other than handing out a single sheet that listed the principal parties involved in making the film, no discussion or presentation of any kind on the part of Sunlight. The room was full of people who appeared to be in the entertainment business but I couldn't tell if anyone was from a distribution company or not.

Re Londinium Screenings Thanks from me too Karen...at last a big screen Colin fix - just hope I can make it. (Suggestions for plausible excuses to get off work early gratefully received)

Think I can safely ask this here (besides too lazy to get back to 126). Is it possible that this film will be changed before general release? Since there weren't any comment cards it doesn't sound as if they were looking at this as a test audience but I remember how long it took MLSF to get released after much tinkering. Thoughts? Anyway, excited as hell about it.

We can safely assume that Mike is happy with his film. It will not suffer from the Miramax/Putnam cuts of MLSF. ;-)

(Tracy) Suggestions for plausible excuses to get off work early gratefully received OK, gotcha covered. Pick whichever one suits your fancy. - My [family member] or [dog/cat/ferret, etc.] is sick - I have a major plumbing emergency at home (works every time) - I'm getting married this afternoon - I'm meeting the Pope this afternoon - I'm meeting Tony Blair this afternoon - I'm meeting Jeffrey Archer this afternoon and so on, and so on... ;-D Seriously, I hope you can go.

Thanks for the feedback on Londinium, ladies. So glad you enjoyed it - for several reasons ;-)

We can safely assume that Mike is happy with his film. It will not suffer from the Miramax/Putnam cuts of MLSF. ;-) Yes, no delays please, or major re-edits or thirty minute cuts. The withering on the vine process. Which is what (if I may return to my favourite grouch for one second!!) is happening to DQ, courtesy of the BBC. I was most annoyed to see a huge advert in today's Times... "BBC Films is very proud of "Billy Elliot" (it's a BBC Films-Working Title co-production. How about "BBC Films doesn't give a **** about DQ"!! Have just fired off another email asking why it takes 2 years to show this film!! Karen, when you see it at the Chicago FF (tomorrow?), if you can find out anything about what's happening to DQ, I'd be very grateful. On the one hand they're talking up "Billy Ellio" for the Oscars, whilst letting DQ rot...and there's probably not all that much difference between them. Enough, enough...grrrr. "Londinium" bodes very well for CF in BJD. He just needs the right project (probably contemporary), the right look, and major, major multiplex exposure, and suddenly everyone will be saying "who is that guy?"...*the* breakout, at last! :-)

The other day was BBC America's day at the Fest (monitors everywhere showing their programs). Talked to the rep. He hadn't a clue about DQ. Only knew vaguely about the other two BBC films at the fest (Greenfingers and Saltwater). The "kid" was there to push cable, as BBC America is only now just available within the city (has been available out in the suburbs). The special fest program shows DQ in 35mm

Thanks Karen! 35mm not Super16? Can they convert format? Let's see if I get a response to my latest email to the Beeb..!

Bethan, did you mention that our US friends/CF fans are lucky enough to see it before the UK fans. Ausralia, US what about the UK?!!!

35mm not Super16? It was never Super16. The specs I had seen were Betacam SP and Digi Beta. From what I can find Betacam SP is video, high-quality professional grade video though. "Following the demise of the Betamax consumer format, Sony introduced the Betacam format for professional users. It was the first of the small format machines intended for ENG and EFP use. The "SP" tape is an upgraded version of the Betacam (1982, Sony Corporation, aka 1/2-in Type L). It is especially popular for field acquisition and post-production work." Digi Beta is digital video and one place said the BBC uses it a lot for documentaries. Yes, these things can be transferred to another format.

And could you hold off telling the BBC anything. Wouldn't want to alert them in case they don't approve and yank the film out of here. Wait until Monday, puh-leez!! :-)

No news of CF from Baz today but he does say: Watch out for James Frain, who has been shooting The Count of Monte Cristo on locations in Ireland. He will star in the TV dramatisation of William Boyd's novel Armadillo. And to all those going to see DQ in Chicago, have a great time.

...alongside CF I hope!

Oh Gawd! I hope so. What does "he will star" mean? Mari, your confirmation was that Colin was actually doing "Armadillo" and had *the* starring role, wasn't it? I can't actually see who James Frain would play other tnan Lorimer Black. He was in "Elizabeth" as the Spanish envoy...dark, curly hair, thirty-ish. Lobby? Torquil? Am having "Hugh Grant as Mark Darcy" palpitations here! Or maybe he'll be one of the crooked busimess men (Rintoul?)I really hope so!!

Oh don't Bethan, I am joining you in those palpitations, why oh why could Baz not have put us out of our misery and said "co-starring with Colin Firth". Mari what do you think?

I have sent an e-mail to Baz but don't expect to hear from him.

Thanks for the news, Aishling. "Starring" can mean anything. Shoot, Honor Blackman is starring in Bridget according to some of the papers, when we know it is just a cameo. I'd say Frain (young Gustave in Sunshine) is Flavia's husband (dark curly hair, handsome, although supposed to be older than Lorimar). Is there a physical description of Torquil? Moon, you are reading the book now.

Reassuring words, Karen! Sorry for the panic and palpitations, Ann...(but anything to do with the BBC makes me deeply, deeply suspicious...no longer have faith!). I guess Frain could also be Lorimer's brother, although he's supposed to be much older. But the dark "foreign" looks would be appropriate. But then casting isn't always that literal. Torquil is very English, but slobbish ( I picture Tim Spall in this) But if it's "official" that James Frain 'will star' in "Armadillo", can we hope for the rest if the cast?

I have finished it! I would guess he would be Torquil, unless, Colin does not have the Lorimer role. Definitely not Gilbert. A very open ended book. One could really work a script out of this one. I look forward to seeing what Boyd and Colin came up with. It is a shame that CF is still not confirmed for the lead. Why does this always happen? Sheer Achimota? ;-)

(Bethan) I picture Tim Spall in this Yes, I've pictured an American actor similar to Spall, although he's bald. Don't know why??? (Moon) Definitely not Gilbert. If that's the husband, why definitely not? Time to reread book.

Review of Donovan Quick in the Chicago Reader, the free alternative paper, but which has IMO the best main reviewer in town. But this wasn't done by him. It's always dicey to adapt a classic story by trying to make it conform to the very specific peculiarities of the present, though some such adaptations are truly inspired, including Dashiell Hammett's great detective novel Red Harvest and Akira Kurosawa's great film Throne of Blood, both adapted from Shakespeare's Macbeth. Director David Blair and Evanston native Donna Franceschild cowrote this adaptation of Don Quixote, which is neither an ingenious retelling of an old warhorse nor an empty academic exercise. Colin Firth is appropriately comic and quixotic as Donovan Quick, a mysterious stranger who rents a room in the town of Clydeside from Lucy Pannick (Katy Murphy) and almost immediately locks horns with the evil multinational Windmill Transport Bus Company by setting up a competing operation. Blair does a nice job of depicting life in working-class suburban Scotland, populating the film with a coterie of charming eccentrics-�though much of this seems familiar from other British films. And several snatc es of dialogue too conveniently explain things that have happened offscreen. But overall this is a pleasantly told moral tale. (reviewed by Joshua Katzman, who has totally missed the political message)

I just called A&E, spoke to the same person as last time, and they are really stonewalling. I asked point blank about CF and JF, citing the British press reports, and was told "Casting hasn't been fully established yet. They are still casting. We can't comment further at this time." This is, of course, considerably different than the last time I called. At that point, they would not confirm anything officially until the press release went out--BUT--she knew I was inquiring specifically about CF as Lorimer; finally, I asked if, as a CF fan I would be pleased when the press release came out, and she responded, "yes, you will definitely be pleased." That was about 2 weeks ago. Don't know what, if anything, has changed in the interim. It's entirely possible that Frain has another role, as Karen said. Or, as I am starting to fear, Colin withdrew at the last minute; maybe something else came along. I'm sorry if I excited everyone's anticipation prematurely, but really I don't know what other conclusion I could have come to after the conversation of 2 weeks ago. Baz seems a better bet for info at this point. Does anybody have his phone number--can it be obtained by calling the Daily Mail? Plan B would be contacting the Black Hole--Colin's agent. Or, if we hear nothing prior to the Sciascia reading, ask Colin directly. Oh, here's another thought: find out who James Frain's agent is and call there. Honestly, you'd think these people were protecting state secrets. It's a movie, fergodsake! I don't think the press corps covering the Nixon White House ran into this much trouble. "What did A&E know and when did they know it?"

Thanks Mari for phoning. Surely Sue Birtwhistle wouldn't let CF down, and I can't see him withdrawing at the last minute. But what does "watch out for JF...he will star in..." mean? I read it as taking the starring role, otherwise why watch out for him. And why not mention other members of the cast. Or (positive thoughts!)it could mean that they are getting together an all-star cast in a very strong production which will be very successful and be watched by everyone. I mean, if he said "watch out for Tim Spall...he will star in.." I'd just assume he had a major role, but not Lorimer. Yet, what could change in 2 weeks? And surely finance is raised against a proposed cast? I just hope it's another BJD type scenario, where no-one could confirm that CF was playing MD. What did his (don't ring me) agent say ..."who knows?" Then a few days later, it's confirmed. It's really gut-wrenching.

***Important info for those hoping to attend the Londinium screenings in London*** I've heard that no one has gotten a response yet to their RSVP e- mails to Sunlight Productions. I just called them and here's the deal: Unlike the NY and LA screenings, the London screenings were designed strictly for potential distributors. They are at small theaters with limited space and were not intended for fans. HOWEVER . . .I spoke to Jack Binder (Mike's brother--very nice guy) and he said that if you have already gotten your e-mail RSVP in, he will respond to you and you will be able to get in. He did say that the screenings are filling up fast and that it may be necessary to cut it off due to space limitations. So . . .you should be hearing something very soon. If you haven't yet sent in your RSVP, I'd say get it in right away and hope that there's room. He did say that there probably would be more screenings in London at a later date in case you don't make this one. Also, they do not yet have a distributor anywhere, but said they were hopeful of getting a theatrical distributor for this one--not just a TV deal as was the case for TSM.

Evelyn, didn't you have a contact who said that CF would be playing a "foppish" character in a TV production. Clutching straws here, but I thought that would be Lorimer in "Armadillo". Just getting very bad vibes about this. But how could things be okay two weeks ago (A&E's response indicates that CF is "it") and change dramatically. This project has been in the pipeline for some time now. JF tends to play supporting roles and he's definitely not tall, and he looks southern European, whereas I imagined Lorimer, despite his family origins, looking like the English/Scottish gentleman. I'm trying to convince myself here! Too disappointing otherwise! :-((

Thanks Mari on both counts but why oh why is nothing straight forward with ODB. I shall be on tenderhooks now until we hear one way or the other. Incidentally I have just emailed Baz at baz.bamigboye@dailymail.uk.co and even if we don't get a personal reply he may mention something in next week's paper.

Emazil to BB had just been returned, can't quite understand it as Sishling sent one to this address and that was not returned, however, I havve tried something different, same as above but have reversed to .co.uk and will see if this works.