doesn't use license payers' fees I guess that puts a stop to disappointed customers' e-mails and calls. ;-) I foresee more riff-raff movies with the same-old/same-old theme. :-( BBC should stick to what it does best: costume drama/mysteries. There is so much that can be done; LeFanu, Wilkie Collins... etc.

I'll excerpt additional details from Screendaily's item on the BBC's foray into big-budget films: David Thompson, head of BBC Films, confirmed that the broadcaster has been talking to financiers about a fund for big-budget pictures. BBC Films recently unveiled a three-way development and production partnership for medium-budget pictures with Germany's Kinowelt and Spain's Lolafilm. Grrrrrr "We are committed to establishing a long-term financing structure for larger budget pictures," Thompson said. "Part of the thinking behind that is to ensure that talent that started out with the BBC is able to continue working with us." Will they ever outgrow this 'cradle to grave' attitude? UK distributor Redbus Film Distribution is expected to handle films from the fund through its output deal for projects funded by BBC Worldwide. US distribution will be sought on big-budget projects, either on a title-by-title basis or with a regular partner. http://www.screendaily.com/shtml_files/story3335.shtml

From Empire: Emma Thompson Fast Forwards 27/11/2000 Oscar-winning actress Emma Thompson is currently hard at work on a screenplay with High Fidelity writer Nick Hornby. In an interview with PeopleNews, Hornby was asked about the project with Thompson and explained. 'it�s a romantic comedy called Fast Forward, about a woman who discovers a video cassette of her life and tries to change her future.' Hornby and Thompson live pretty close to each other in North London, but as Hornby explains, the screenplay project came about in a roundabout way. 'I did a treatment that was sent to Emma in an actress capacity. She liked it, and wanted to talk about it - so much so that I suggested we wrote the script together. It�s an amazing experience, because she is just so smart.'

Mmmm, Evelyn's going to be pleased as punch to read that Simon Russell Beale won the Evening Standard award today for Best Actor for his Hamlet. This was included in the article: "The Evening Standard's theatre critic Nicholas de Jongh wrote of his performance: 'Hamlet will never be the same again. Simon Russell Beale triumphantly confounded the belief that the prince ought to be played by a romantic leading man with youth, sex appeal and a fine physique.'" *snort* What a backhanded compliment! Sorry, Donna. :-(

LOL. I can't imagine sitting through 3 hours of him. :-)

(BBC)"Part of the thinking behind that is to ensure that talent that started out with the BBC is able to continue working with us." (Karen)Will they ever outgrow this 'cradle to grave' attitude? AKA "Prisoners of BBC". (Gag, Gag.) (Karen)... Evelyn's going to be pleased as punch to read that Simon Russell Beale won the Evening Standard award today for Best Actor for his Hamlet. Gag, Gag again. I wouldn't walk across the street to see Simon Russell Beale. Besides ..he's ugly.

Oh no!!!!!!!!!!! From Empire: Pie Duo Helm Hornby�s Latest 28/11/2000 Nick Hornby�s third novel About a Boy may finally have found a director, but fans of the book may be surprised, and possibly dismayed, to learn that taking up the camera will be Chris and Paul Weitz, most famous for pastry-shagging teen comedy American Pie. The pair responsible for American Pie�s special brand of gross-out humour are certainly an odd choice to bring Hornby�s new-man-centred tale to the big screen. The story follows 36-year-old bachelor Will Lightman, played by Hugh Grant, for whom commitment is the root of all evil. Drawn to single mothers who, he believes, will be less likely to tie him down, Will finds his plans for meaningless relationship bliss complicated when he becomes attached to the 12-year-old son of his latest conquest. Retaining the book�s North London setting, this Robert De Niro produced project was originally due to be helmed by Wings of The Dove director Iain Softley until casting disagreements caused him to pull out. Hornby�s sensitive tale of bonding between young boy and big kid is hard to reconcile with the Weitz brothers� propensity for bodily fluids and knob gags. With hordes of Hornby fans still bristling over the Americanising of High Fidelity, the pair will have to tread very carefully indeed.

Here's the original Variety report, without the snide editorializing... Weitzes to Give 'Boy' Direction LONDON (Variety) - Male sensitivity is the trademark of Brit novelist Nick Hornby. Chris and Paul Weitz are better known for promoting unnatural acts with a warm apple pie. But in an unlikely coupling, the brothers behind teen comedy hit "American Pie" are now set to direct the big screen adaptation of Hornby"s most recent novel "About a Boy." Hugh Grant has long been in the frame to play the lead -- a wealthy, 36-year-old layabout whose fear of commitment leads him to seek out relationships with single mothers on the grounds that they are easier to leave. But his plans go awry when he becomes best friends with the 12-year-old son of his latest target. The film shoots next March in the U.K. New Line paid $2.75 million three years ago for the then-unpublished manuscript of Hornby's novel. The original version of the screenplay, penned by Peter Hedges ("What"s Eating Gilbert Grape"), kept the North London setting but rewrote the central character as an American. Iain Softley ("Backbeat") was attached to direc but dropped out over casting disagreements. Hornby"s two previous books, "High Fidelity" and "Fever Pitch," have also been filmed. ******** Now my editorializing: Interesting that a director with integrity bowed out over casting disagreements, so they've signed directors without any integrity whatsoever. ;-)

(shudder) This must be a film to avoid at all costs...

Chris and Paul Weitz are better known for promoting unnatural acts with a warm apple pie (shudder) This must be a film to avoid at all costs.. What? Can't directors change?...Go mainstream? Look at Neil Le Bute;-)) With hordes of Hornby fans still bristling over the Americanising of High Fidelity,... 'About a Boy' should be so lucky as to have the success of 'High Fidelity'....great little movie.

(Evelyn)'About a Boy' should be so lucky as to have the success of 'High Fidelity'....great little movie. It's probable that it will have more success than Fever Pitch... Colin won't be in it :-(

Not that this is necessarily true or that we care, but DS's comments at the end about being so close to the audience were interesting. Always wondered... West End For Tom & Nicole? 29/11/2000 Theatre purists in London can date the invasion of Hollywood stars on to the West End stage to Nicole Kidman's stint at the Donmar Warehouse two years ago. Now it seems, she's on her way back, this time with husband Tom Cruise in tow. Empire Online caught up with actor Dougray Scott in London this week who shared with us the rumour that the Cruises are planning a joint venture in London. "I hear the whisper that Tom and Nicole may - the word is 'may' - be going into the Donmar,' Dougray told us. 'I have heard talk about it. I think it will be fantastic, they are both terrific actors. The security will be interesting though, I mean how will they allow people to get so close to them on stage. Dougray, who is himself finishing up a run in Sam Mendes production of To The Green Fields Beyond at the Donmar, went on to say; "I think they should both go there, together, I think they will have a wonderful time. I did. It is an extraordinary theatre because you are so close to the audience. It freaks some actors out. It excites me; I love it when you get so close to the front row. You are kind of emoting and getting very passionate and the spittle goes on to the front of the audience in the auditorium."

(Karen) (Dougray) I love it when you get so close to the front row. LOL, and we love it too! Spittle and all. :-)

(Dougray) You are kind of emoting and getting very passionate and the spittle goes on to the front of the audience LOL! Interesting way of putting it... (Dougray)...they [Tom & Nichole] are both terrific actors. As long as the play's about a motivational speaker, yeah, I guess you could say that.

Was reading about the Queen attending the opening of the new Rada facility. Lots of grads there. Liked this bit from The Times: "Many of the Academy�s alumni were on hand to greet a woman whose theatrical role comes naturally to her. Lord Attenborough, chairman of RADA, was suitable effusive, while Ralph Fiennes explained in reply to her inquiry as to whether he mainly did films, that he had recently been touring America with Richard II and Coriolanus." Guess she doesn't get to Shoreditch much...

For anyone that is still interested in Armadillo, this from Baz today:(shortened version) Catherine McCormack is to play the beautiful thespian, Flavia Malinverno. She will start filming as soon as she completes working on the movie, Spy Game in January. Stephen Rea and James Fox will also appear in the series. No roles mentioned.

SR & JF will also appear in the series Could it be Hogg & Torquil?

So if the filming date is Jan. why is Colin not in it? Thanks, Aishling.

This is quite a good cast, Aishling. CMcC won't do her parts till January? Seems like they are only getting started now, if they're announcing all these other cast members. (Ann) Could it be Hogg & Torquil? Reversed. James Fox seems more like a Hogg, being older, etc.

Talk about busy CMcM had done 4 films in 2000 and has Armadillo already lined up for 2001, why don't our guys get offered this many projects!!!

or one guy in particular!

From PeopleNews: Penguin throws its writers together on a double-decker Penguin Books have come up with a novel and some might say undignified way of promoting their authors - bundling them into a double-decker bus and shipping them around the bookshops of London. Poor old Sir Paddy Ashdown, Zadie Smith, Nick Hornby, Alain de Botton, Lisa Jewell, Toby Litt, Tom Sutcliffe and Julia Llewellyn Smith have been cajoled into roaring around the capital in a bus, stopping off to sign their books for one day, 7 December. Their route will take in the book emporia of Kensington, Notting Hill, Piccadilly, Charing Cross Road and Oxford Street. 'I suppose it's a good idea, but we're going to look pretty stupid,' says one of the 22 writers taking part. 'I am dreading it - we'll look like tourists.'

Tuesday Penguin had their lovely annual authors party at the National Portrait Gallery. Hmm That bus tour sounds like an awful idea.

As you say Karen, a good cast, which makes me even sadder that CF it not involved, oh well let's hope that he wasn't overlooked in favour of JF but has some major project lined up for January, maybe MOB, although having said that I can't imagine them filming high up in the Lake District in mid-winter. I know this is just fantasizing but don't you think it would be great if Colin were the 3rd cast member for Design for Living, I would love to see him on Broadway, and after all he is friends of both JE & Alan Cummings!!! I can always dream!!

(Ann)I know this is just fantasizing but don't you think it would be great if Colin were the 3rd cast member for Design for Living I'd rather you fantasized about this than MOB. ;-)

(Ann)I know this is just fantasizing but don't you think it would be great if Colin were the 3rd cast member for Design for Living (Karen)I'd rather you fantasized about this than MOB. ;-) It is a lovely fantasy except that Otto, the painter is also gay:-(( Or at best AC/DC. OK, you've inspired me to call Roundabout next week. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thanks Aishling.... Cath Mc will make a great Flavia...but she'll have to be a brunette. Stephen Rea, super actor...remember him in The End of the Affair? I have him down for Torquil. (Aw...let's now open up an Armadillo Topic, too depressing) The guy *must * have another job lined up, as you say, Ann.Why would he reject his good friend, SB's project.I like JF, but who would pick him over ODB.

Isobel Montgomery of the Guardian has a snapshot review of Speaking with the Angel today: If you haven't heard Hornby talking about the Treehouse, the school his autistic son attends, read the introduction. Otherwise rummage through this excellent collection of short stories that Hornby's friends have donated to raise funds. The cause is worthy and Hornby's contributors - Melissa Bank, John O'Farrell, Robert Harris, and Patrick Marber, among others - have given excellent work rather than castoffs, so this reads like a compendium of the kind of writing that newspapers and magazines would pay dearly to publish in their Christmas issues. Don't feel virtuous: charity is only a by-product of this very good sampler of contemporary literature.

(Evelyn) It is a lovely fantasy except that Otto, the painter is also gay:-(( As Jeremy Northam says in Happy, Texas, "So we have to be gay. How hard can that be?" ;-) BTW, Happy, T is a "must-rent" for any JN fan. Yum. Am surprised there haven't been any Hugh Grant articles to promote Small Time Crooks (unless I've missed something). Was hoping we might get some BJD tidbits.

No mention of Colin, but Three Days of Rain is playing in Dublin. There's a small blurb (and pic) in the Sunday Times, but a longer one from the Irish Times. It's more about the actor than about the play... Peter Hanly has so skilfully and completely shrugged off Ambrose's Garda uniform that watching him in Three Days of Rain, Rough Magic's new production at the Project, it is difficult to believe he was ever one of the main characters in Ballykissangel. In the first half of the urbane family drama, he is Walker the mad or bad or simply eccentric son of a famous New York architect. In the second act he plays Ned, the architect father complete with a stutter and a flawless American accent. In the first, a brother, played by Hanly, and his sister, together with their long-time friend, meet for the reading of their father's will. In the second half the same actors play their parents in a clever theatrical device that explores such emotionally-charged family dynamics as the impossibility of children ever understanding, or even truly knowing, their parents. It is set in New York in the 1960s and the 1990s. To prepare for the role, Hanly went to voice coach Andrea Ainsworth to perfect his American accent. He also went to the Irish Stammerers' Association because the father character has a pronounced speech defect. [...] Three Days of Rain is at the Project Theatre, Dublin until December 16th http://www.ireland.com/dublin/entertainment/theatre/hanly.htm

To prepare for the role, Hanly went to voice coach Andrea Ainsworth to perfect his American accent. He also went to the Irish Stammerers'Association because the father character has a pronounced speech defect. Clever of this actor to do this...I always thought that Colin should have made Ned's stammer more pronounced to differentiate him from Walker.Instead he chose to play Walker more manic.

You wonder how they would assess "flawless American accent." ;-) However, I thought the bit about his coaching and the stammerers assn was interesting. Agree about CF's lack of stammer. Has always bothered me.

he chose to play Walker more manic Wouldn't the director have perhaps something to say...?

I doubt it... ~~~~~~~~~~ Hey Moon....in the European Film Awards : European Cinematographer 2000 Award went to Vittorio Storaro's for work on Carlos Saura's "Goya In Bordeaux".

I have always said that Storaro is the best cinematographer around. That is the only thing that saves CSs films, IMO. I have seen Storaro do better with Bertolucci. Let us not forget that all those Europeans are very pretentious and Goya is a very pretencious film.

The official press info is out for Armadillo. Frain isn't even mentioned. This is from The Hollywood Reporter: A&E/BBC start 'Armadillo' (Mon., Dec. 4, 2000) By Brett Sporich Flush with critical success on its longform original telepic "Longitude," A&E/BBC begins production today in London on the three-hour feature "Armadillo," starring Stephen Rea ("The Crying Game") and Catherine McCormack ("Braveheart"). Novelist William Boyd adapted the screenplay from his novel "Armadillo," a dark comedy-thriller that explores the financial, insurance and music worlds of contemporary London. "We knew that 'Longitude' would be a critical success, but when it also was a ratings success, it encouraged us to continue with our slate of British programming," A&E Network senior vp programming Allen Sabinson said. "It's not a matter of whether it's produced in England or America. It's a matter of whether or not it's good. And 'Armadillo' is very good." Directed by Howard Davies, "Armadillo" is being produced by Sue Birtwistle with Delia Fine representing A&E as executive producer and Jane Tranter executive producing for the BBC. "Armadillo" is slated to air on A&E late next year.

Thanks, Karen. What a pathetic excuse for a press release, not to even have the star's name in it. And I realize Longitude was the most recent collaboration, but sorry, that was a bore. Like watching a clock tick.;-) ;-)

"Longitude" wasn't that the one with Jeremy Irons and Michael Gambon? Omygod...that was a real ZZZZZ. I guess the reason they didn't have JF's name is because he isn't as well known in the trade as the other two that have starred in US films. Not yet, anyway. A&E Network senior vp programming Allen Sabinson ... Hey Heide, that's a name to jot down for future blitzing for P&P re-shows.

another one...I think Jane Tranter was also a producer for DQ.

I have dutifully brought this over from topic 131. But Moon, every major player's contract has a "sell by" date in it, i.e., project needs to wrap up by such and such date or else the actor can withdraw. Colin has stated himself at the reading that he has no other project lined up. Also, when an actor wants to do a certain project, he will stick around for a longer time. (See Eyes Wide Shut with Tom & Nicole) (Mari), I don't know of any other producer involved. Because you see one name as producer listed does not mean that they are the only backers. In fact, the producer gets money from different people or organizations, depending on the project. Apart from BJD, which was written for him, and would have been such a mistake not to cast him because those readers/bookbuyers are its audience and Colin was a big part of it. Apart from BJD, Colin has not really been offered any juicy parts. Armadillo would have been a juicy part, a starring role, which IMO, is exactly what he should be aiming at. "Armadillo" is being produced by Sue Birtwistle with Delia Fine representing A&E as executive producer and Jane Tranter executive producing for the BBC. As you see, these producers are also working with others. It is the usual case of too many indians not enough chiefs. I think Jane Tranter was also a producer for DQ. If she was and seeing what a hard time they had with DQ starring CF, she may have had something to do with his removal. This is all conjecture, but until I am proven wrong... Sorry Echo, I do not see Colin quitting such a good role because of a disagreement over the script that he was helping Boyd write.

Actually, all those producers are employed by either BBC or A&E. They are not independent producers. The project is being co-financed by A&E and BBC. I doubt we will ever know or understand what changed with this project, but it's my feeling that he left it.

(Moon) Colin has stated himself at the reading that he has no other project lined up. I didn't say he did; I only speculated that he might have another obligation. May not be career-related. (Moon) Also, when an actor wants to do a certain project, he will stick around for a longer time. (See Eyes Wide Shut with Tom & Nicole) This ain't Kubrick, it's a TV movie.;-) BTW, Delia Fine's office (the A&E exec producer mentioned in the press release) is the one I had called. I know you're disappointed, Moon. I am too. Three hours of CF in the lead would have been nice. But, let's think positively. Though he may not have something else signed, maybe there are some interesting irons in the fire, possibly in anticipation of his (hopefully) higher profile in BJD. Armadillo wouldn't have done much for his big screen profile. If it's any consolation, William Boyd's latest, The Trench, is/was having a limited release here and got panned. So, Armadillo is not a slam dunk. Honestly, I'd feel much worse if it were a big screen project that he turned down.

Perhaps we should take up a collection so that Spring Drool can be a character in NH's next book...or maybe Sebastian Faulks' or Louis de Louis de Bernieres' Readers to bid to be characters in books Literature fans could find themselves on the pages of their hero's next book, thanks to an unusual charity auction. Some of the world's best loved writers have offered to sell bidders the right to have characters in the authors' next books named after them. Authors taking part include Louis de Bernieres, Hanif Kureishi, Sebastian Faulks and Nick Hornby. Money raised from the auction will go to the charity The Medical Foundation for the Care of Victims of Torture which helps people ranging from former POWs of the Japanese in the Second World War to asylum seekers fleeing persecution. Award-winning writer Jim Crace, who is taking part in the project, said: "Hopefully, people who feel passionately about literature will see this as a great opportunity to grab 15 paragraphs of fame although, of course, if they bid a great deal of money they are going to want a bigger showing than that." The auction, which is sponsored by bol.com is being held at the British Academy of Film and Television in London.

Sorry Echo, I do not see Colin quitting such a good role because of a disagreement over the script that he was helping Boyd write. Sorry to make one of my rare postings with such an undrooly comment but do you think that perhaps on reflection the producers and even Colin himself thought that he was a bit, dare I say it, old for the part? Lorrimer is said to be v early 30's which is getting a bit of a stretch for a man of 40. James Frain is 31. It might account for Colin's comments in a recent interview when he dwelt on the fact that he was now too old to play certain parts. Think I shall just put my hard hat on and hide in this nice hole

I think you may be right Allison, may I bring my hard hat and join you in your nice hole!! I have to say on reading Armadillo, I was beginning to get the feeling that Colin was perhaps not quite right for the role but I am still disappointed that we shall not be seeing him in a 3hour starring role on TV.

Have none of you read THR? James Frain is no longer in the running. It is Stephen Rea.

Lassie, have you not read message 935 (and subsequent others) above from yesterday?

Allison, while that could be a possibility, I wouldn't think so. The actual age of a *male* lead never seems to matter all that much...if he has box office appeal. The pairing of Colin and Catherine McC would've worked fine. Besides, if RF can play a 20-ish man in Sunshine, then Colin can certainly play someone in his 30s.

Allison, you raised a good point that has been discussed before. Though I liked the book v. much and Milos is a good part..a few years ago perhaps. I wish he would have bowed out of SLOW too! Jeremy Irons knew what he was doing;-) RF is younger than Colin ..esp now with the weight loss...though not as handsome. ~~~~~~~ Lassie, I don't dare call JF's agent again! ~~~~~~~~~ Spring Drool can be a character in NH's next book.. Yessssss.I'm for that!!Or maybe we could draw straws:-)

Here is the COMPLETE press release from A&E. This should put things to rest. A&E AND BBC TO BEGIN PRODUCTION ON WILLIAM BOYD'S "ARMADILLO" STARRING JAMES FRAIN, CATHERINE MCCORMACK AND STEPHEN REA NEW YORK, NY December 4, 2000 - A&E/BBC will begin production December 4 on a three-hour original movie, ARMADILLO, starring Academy Award nominee Stephen Rea (The Crying Game, Michael Collins) and Catherine McCormack (Braveheart, Shadow of the Vampire), it was announced today by Allen Sabinson, Senior Vice President, Programming, A&E Network. Critically acclaimed novelist William Boyd (A Good Man In Africa) has adapted the screenplay of his novel Armadillo, as a darkly comedic thriller that re-invents the eccentric squalor of film noir against the backdrop of contemporary London. The film also stars James Frain (Hilary and Jackie, Reindeer Games) as Lorimer Black, a handsome, put-upon insurance adjuster, and James Fox (Remains of the Day, Patriot Games, A Passage to India) as Sir Simon Sherriffmuir. ARMADILLO will be filmed in London. The premiere date for the 3-hour film has not been scheduled at this time. ARMADILLO finds Lorimer Black becoming increasingly entangled in a conspiracy that appears to involve everyone he's ever met. When he finds a hanged man on what was supposed to be a perfectly ordinary business appointment, Lorimer realizes his own life is about to be turned upside down. The deeper he delves into the morass, the more his past comes to light -- a past he would just as soon forget. To further complicate matters, Lorimer must contend with his feelings for a beautiful -- and married -- actress named Flavia Malinverno (Catherine McCormack), and his dealings with an erratic and eccentric boss, George Hogg (Steven Rea). ARMADILLO is an A&E/Chestermead Ltd./BBC co-production. The film will be directed by Howard Davies; Emmy Award-nominee Sue Birtwistle (PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, EMMA, WIVES AND DAUGHTERS) is the producer; and William Boyd wrote the teleplay. The Costume Designer is Academy Award-winner Jenny Beavan (Room With A View, Sense & Sensibility, Howard's End), Delia Fine is the Executive Producer for A&E, and Jane Tranter is Executive Producer for the BBC. "ARMADILLO is a work of dark comic genuis that reveals the financial, insurance and music worlds of today's booming London with a unique vision," said Sabinson. "We're thrilled that director Howard Davies and producer Sue Birtwistle have been able to attract such a stellar cast and production team to a film that we know will find favour with our A&E viewers." Controller of BBC Drama Commissioning, Jane Tranter said: "Sue Birtwistle and Howard Davies have gathered together an amazing cast for William Boyd's brilliant adaptation of his novel ARMADILLO which, combined with the sights and sounds of modern London, will be a treat for U.S. audiences. This production is firmly stamped with the BBC gold standard and and it is terrific to be working with A&E on a contemporary adaptation."

Two others in the cast are Conor Mullen (who was the best one in Saltwater) and Mathilda Ziegler.

Well that's that then.

Thanks Karen.... A pity the press release didn't mention the reason why Colin wasn't in it;-) evelyn, joining Allison in the bunker

(Press release) The film also stars James Frain Poor JF, relegated to 2nd paragraph. What, did they change it to Hogg's (Rea's) story?;-) Can picture it: "Film-noirish tale of a middle-aged insurance bureaucrat caught in ethnic identity crisis having changed name to Hogg from . . .Hog." ;-)

You are so funny Mari, LOL.I needed that!

LOL! I told you I wasn't perfect...

Thanks Karen for the news on Armadillo.

Having never read any of the Adrian Mole books, but having heard they are better than Bridget, thought this was an interesting development: Paxman launches movie career Newsnight presenter stars in Adrian Mole film Jeremy Paxman, the famously combative host of BBC's Newsnight, is to make his acting debut in a new series based on the hugely popular Adrian Mole books. PeopleNews can reveal that the grand inquisitor will play a broadcaster with the instincts of a Rottweiler in an adaptation of Sue Townsend's bestseller, Adrian Mole - The Cappuccino Years. He has taken on the role for the six-part series which will be screened on BBC1 in the New Year. Paxman will be seen giving his usual Newsnight 'kebabing' of politicians as he grills Mole's girlfriend Pandora Braithwaite, who has risen to become a New Labour junior minister. However, Pandora, who is played by Cold Feet star Helen Baxendale, 'knows just how to handle Paxman and gives as good as she gets', according to insiders on the show.

Is it deerhunting season? I gots me a biiiig gun :-D Thanks for the Armadillo info, Karen. (Mari) What, did they change it to Hogg's (Rea's) story?;-) Can picture it: "Film-noirish tale of a middle-aged insurance bureaucrat caught in ethnic identity crisis having changed name to Hogg from . . .Hog." Hee hee! Agree we will never know the reason CF isn't involved in this project. Onward and upward, as they say.

OK! Film awards season has officially started (Evelyn and Ann, note Sunshine made their top 10): 'Quills,' Roberts Win Season's First Film Awards By Chris Michaud NEW YORK (Reuters) - ``Quills,'' a drama built around the French writer the Marquis de Sade, was named best film of the year by the National Board of Review on Wednesday, kicking off the movie honors season that culminates with the Academy Awards. The main acting awards both honored portrayals of real people. Best actress went to Julia Roberts, Hollywood's biggest female star, for her performance as a real-life legal crusader in ``Erin Brockovich,'' while Javier Bardem was named best actor for ``Before Night Falls,'' based on the memoirs of Cuban novelist and poet Reinaldo Arenas. The National Board of Review and other critics' associations' awards are seen as harbingers of Hollywood's Holy Grail -- the Oscars, which are handed out in March. ``Quills,'' a fictional story about freedom of speech and expression with the notorious French writer the Marquis de Sade at its center, beat out nine other films that the board also cited for excellence in what many critics considered a weak year. ``Quills'' stars Geoffrey Rush, Joaquin Phoenix, Kate Winslet and Michael Caine and is directed by Philip Kaufman. ``Traffic,'' ``Croupier,'' ``You Can Count on Me,'' ``Billy Elliot,'' ``Before Night Falls,'' ``Gladiator,'' ``Wonder Boys,'' ''Sunshine'' and ``Dancer in the Dark'' were the rest of the board's ``10 best films of 2000.'' Phoenix, Ontiveros, Soderbergh Also Honored Best supporting actor went to Phoenix for his performances in three films, ``Gladiator,'' ``Quills'' and ``The Yards'' while best supporting actress went to Lupe Ontiveros for the offbeat film ``Chuck and Buck.'' Steven Soderbergh was named best director for ``Erin Brockovich'' and ``Traffic,'' while Ted Tally won best screenplay for ``All the Pretty Horses.'' The National Board of Review also honored ``State and Main'' for best ensemble, and ``The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg'' as best documentary. ``Chicken Run'' won best animated feature. Best foreign film was Ang Lee's martial arts-inspired ''Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,'' and Krzysztof Kieslowski's ''Decalogue'' series was honored for outstanding achievement in foreign film. Michelle Rodriguez was cited for a breakthrough performance for ``Girlfight,'' about female boxers, while Jamie Bell was named outstanding young actor as the aspiring ballet dancer in the British hit ``Billy Elliot.'' ``Gladiator,'' director Ridley Scott's hit starring Russell Crowe set in ancient Rome, won for production design/art direction, while Sweden's Bjork received a nod for outstanding dramatic musical performance by an actress for ``Dancer in the Dark.'' The board will present actress Ellen Burstyn, seen on screens this year in a reissue of ``The Exorcist'' and several other films, a career achievement award when it hands out its honors on Jan. 16 at Manhattan's Tavern on the Green restaurant. Kenneth Lonergan, who wrote and directed the critical hit ''You Can Count on Me,'' also will be honored for special filmmaking achievement. The New York Film Critics Circle, considered among the most prestigious film awards, announces its winners on Dec. 13.

Oooh, such off-the-wall choices. Have seen 6 of their 10 best (and 2 haven't opened yet). Congrats on Sunshine, Ev. You can be sure there will be lots of "for your consideration" ads taken out for the film and probably three of its cast members. ;-)

Whooopeee for SUNSHINE. You can be sure there will be lots of "for your consideration" ads taken out for the film and probably three of its cast members. ;-) Sunday's LA Times Calendar movie ad section announced the re-release of Sunshine at Beverly Hills Laemmle's Music Hall starting this Friday. It appears Paramount Classics is pushing RF, JE, RH, WH(Wm. Hurt), Lajos Koltai (cinematography) and Maurice Jarre (music) for Oscar nominations. It will also be re-released in other parts of the country. Sorry Tineke, I'm doing my best to find out when it will open in Belgium...so far no luck. Or Denmark for Hanne. Some of the websites are mentioning Istvan Szabos (director) too. I know...it's an almost insurmountable longshot,but nice to see her mentioned. Even a good lesson in pronouncing her name:-)) (I know, ...Moon...DH did not like it...neither did Portugal;-))

I sent an e-mail to the Kinepolis people (Kinepolis owns all the big movie theatres in Belgium) and they said that Sunshine is probably going to be released in March. They also said they can't help it, they're not responsible for the releases. They gave me the phone number of ABC distribution. I haven't made the call yet.

Great news fro Sunshine and the rest of the odd choices. Those odd films seem to always attract me. I am also happy for Bjork. I am a big fan. (I know, ...Moon...DH did not like it...neither did Portugal;-)) LOL! But I did! The last two films he liked were: The Horseman on the Roof and Cabeza de Vaca. But I loved them too and highly recommend them. I hope Quills opens soon. :-) Sounds like a must-see.

I hope Quills opens soon. :-) Sounds like a must-see. You're gonna get frontal nudity of Geoffrey Rush;-) (I know... some of the people here are gonna say.."Better than RF in Sunshine!) The Horseman on the Roof and Cabeza de Vaca. But I loved them too and highly recommend them. Where? When?Aside from Chicago, only the two coasts get these films. (Tineke)..they said that Sunshine is probably going to be released in March I'm working on Alliance in Canada who made the film...but probably didn't distribute it in Europe.Hey, in March we'll have the video..but it deserves to be seen on a big screen. (No remarks from the balcony on RF nudity;-) LOL You see, I know you all so well, I can anticipate your responses;-)

Okay okay, Eve... I'll keep quiet ;-)

(Moon) The Horseman on the Roof and Cabeza de Vaca. But I loved them too and highly recommend them. (Evelyn) Where? When? Aside from Chicago, only the two coasts get these films. *cough* we don't get all of them either. Not sure if these ever played in the theaters here, but the Horseman has been out on vid for a couple of years. There was a preview for it in front of some other video and it looked good, so I rented it. Now I know why it didn't play in theaters. Never heard of the cow movie before. (No remarks from the balcony on RF nudity;-) *remarking from the peanut gallery* It was no big deal. ;-)

Begging your pardon, Horseman on the Roof did have a limited theatre release and I was lucky to have seen it. Alfredo Nu�ez Cabeza de Vaca is the full title and Blockbuster here has it for rent. The cinematography is sublime and the story very engaging. It is not light fare.

Alfredo Nu�ez Cabeza de Vaca is the full title and Blockbuster here has it for rent.The cinematography is sublime Is it directed by Carlos Saura...our man for MOB? ( Standards are slipping a little bit as we get towards the end of the year and other projects are crumbling ;-)

You know, besides the ads, the Oscar hopefuls all appear on the night time talk shows. Good thing JE will be in the US. Will make it easy for her to appear on Letterman. They all do it, however, unknown and obscure to our public.

(Karen)Good thing JE will be in the US. Will make it easy for her to appear on Letterman. If she thinks she has to do *that*....she might bail-out of DFL;-)

Not Saura, Evelyn. He wishes to be that talented. I must find out who the cinematographer was because he can compete with Storaro.

The latest in our Carlos Saura watch (Day 266): Spanish mini-studio The Filmax Group is in final negotiations to pick up world rights on veteran director Carlos Saura�s much-anticipated forthcoming feature Bunuel And King Salomon�s Table (Bunuel Y La Mesa Del Rey Salomon)....Shooting on Bunuel began December 4 and will run through January 31.

Thought this looked like it may be interesting, a release about Working Titles' upcoming projects: LONDON -- Working Title Films has added "The Poetess," directed by Mike Newell, and "Guru of Sex" helmed by Daisy Mayer, to its slate of productions for next year. Also in the works are Mel Smith's "Black Ball," and the Rowan Atkinson vehicle "Johnny English: A Touch of Weevil," to be directed by Peter Howitt. Meanwhile, the company's low-budget arm WT2, riding high from the success of "Billy Elliot," is prepping "My Little Eye" and "Ali G is in Da House." All these films are slated to shoot in the first half of 2001, ahead of the looming Hollywood strikes. Working Title is owned by Universal, and its films are co-financed by U and StudioCanal. "The Poetess" reunites Newell with Working Title for the first time since "Four Weddings and a Funeral." It's an original screenplay by Will Davies about a romance between a female poet and a Cambridge don. The project was originally developed by Stacey Snider at Universal for Curtis Hanson to direct, but Hanson is now taking a producer credit. *************** Wouldn't The Poetess be a good one? Surely Colin isn't too old to play a Cambridge don. ;-) As an aside, all the UK news led off with the Ali G movie, which Variety relegated to the end of the article.

Could Oscar Be Shared? (from: Today's LA Times Calendar ) "In an unusual twist on the annual jockeying for Oscar nominations, Paramount Classics is launching an ad campaign in the Hollywood trades asking Academy Award voters to consider "Sunshine" stars RH and JE for a shared best supporting actress nomination. The actresses-mother and daughter in real life-playa family matriarch in older and younger stages of life. A spokesman for the film-which was named Wednesday as one of the year's 10 best by the National Board of Review-noted that some movie critics had already suggested that duo could share acting honors. Though there's no known incidence of a previous shared nomination, Paramount Classics, the spokesman said, has talked to the film academy about the issue "and they haven't said. 'no,' so it's up to the acting branch when they do the nominations." In a further Oscar bid, meanwhile. "Sunshine," originally released in June and also starring RF, reopens tonight at Laemmle's Music Hall." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Of course they haven't been nominated...but it's a good move, so the votes wouldn't be split. We were afraid of that when they were both nominated for the Tony's.

I never heard of a shared nomination. Would they do that? Unfortunately whether Julia Roberts deserves it or not she is a sure nomination because they want her to attend the Oscars. BTW, they are looking for a host Billy Crystal said no. :-( As an aside, all the UK news led off with the Ali G movie, which Variety relegated to the end of the article. Funny you should say that, Karen, because when reading the article I immediately thought, that it might be something Colin would want to do just by the title, "Ali G is in Da House." Bunuel Y La Mesa Del Rey Salomon, sounds like a movie I would love because of the subject matter. I love Luis Bunuel, but I have no hopes now that Saura is directing. Que lastima!

(Moon) I immediately thought, that it might be something Colin would want to do just by the title, "Ali G is in Da House." Ha! Who knows. Didn't I read somewhere that Colin said he liked Ali G's humor, something about the good stuff on TV????? But I prefer the don role. Mmmmmm

(Moon)I never heard of a shared nomination. It would be a first. Nobel Prize people do it:-)) Would they do that? Unfortunately whether Julia Roberts deserves it or not she is a sure nomination because they want her to attend the Oscars. I think Julia Roberts deserves Best Actress. RH and JE's shared nomination would be for Supporting Actress.

"Shared Oscar story" also at excellent Oscar website Oscarwatch - www.oscarwatch.com/

I think Julia Roberts deserves Best Actress. I go for Bjork.

(evelyn)I think Julia Roberts deserves Best Actress. (Moon)I go for Bjork. Haven't seen Bjork yet, or Cate Blanchette in The Gift (which hasn't been released yet). Both are mentioned as contenders.If "Dancers" get a nomination, the film will hit the rest of the country. Otherwise it's dead-"wait for the video"- meat for us. Joan Allen in "The Contenders" also is in competition. That Oscar watch website is v. good Ann. Thanks. http://www.oscarwatch.com

Oh, goodie, Oscar handicapping--one of my fave things to do!:-) I think the Ehle/Harris combo could work; it's attracting a lot of attention, and that is crucial for getting out the Oscar nom vote. Would certainly set a precedent (and these days in the US, we are setting president, . .er, precedent, every hour.;-) Principal competition that I can see are Kate Hudson and Frances McDormand for Almost Famous (both great). Also, Miramax will come out swinging for the supporting roles in Chocolat (Lena Olin and Judi Dench). Thanks for that Oscar watch site, Ann. Great excerpts from some of the Sunshine reviews. RE: lead actress--like Evelyn, I also liked Julia in EB, and Joan Allen in Contender. Moon, will take your word on Bjork as it left town before I could see it. Other possibilities: RZ in Nurse Betty; Laura Linney in You Can Count on Me, and Ellen Burstyn for Requiem For A Dream. Among those not yet released, Blanchett also a possibility, as is Gillian Anderson for House Of Mirth (which got a fantastic review in the new EW issue). One thing is for sure: Quills won't get the top prize from the LA Film Critics; Ken Turan's review is one of the very worst for a film that I've ever read. Time Mag's was bad as well, if memory serves. So, critics are really split on that one. Keep your eyes on Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon--haven't read a negative remark on it yet. Supposed to be brilliant. Studio is pushing hard for it to be considered in the Best Picture category--and not relegated to Best Foreign Language film (even though it's 100% in Mandarin). Excellent reviews in the new EW for Cast Away and for Thirteen Days. Advance word on Traffic is great. Should shape up as an interesting end of year! And good news for us movie lovers who have sat through a pretty lackluster year so far.

Studio is pushing hard for it to be considered in the Best Picture category--and not relegated to Best Foreign Language film (even though it's 100% in Mandarin). You mean subtitles? (I know, Moon....I'm the illiterate one;-) Hate subtitles. She said as she is valiantly getting through Wanssee Conference in German !(With sub-titles :-((

(fixing small tag) (Mari) I think the Ehle/Harris combo could work Call me a pessimist, but I don't think so. I recall a tie many years ago for Best Actress, but I can't imagine the acting branch of the Academy going along with this. A single performance by a single individual. Remember all the controversy surrounding Geoffrey Rush's nom for Shine. One part played by three actors and he was the one singled out despite the other two receiving accolades. Re: other suppporting actresses: isn't this where Ellen Burstyn will be, not best actress? Re: best actress Agree about Julia, Joan Allen and Bjork. Bjork deserves it, although she hasn't a prayer of winning IMO. Her nom will be along the lines of Fernanda Montenegro a couple of years ago, from highly acclaimed but obscure foreignish film to Americans. ;-) Definitely agree about Gillian Anderson. Am pulling for RZ to round out the slate (5 right?), but there are some small films coming out which usually provide the fodder for Best Actress, as no women have decent roles in blockbuster films. Cannot comment on Cate B as haven't seen the film and seems like it is male-oriented again, so what kind of "wifely" role could merit this? And there is Songcatcher, which won awards at Sundance last year and stars Janet McTeer... Others to come.