From indications at this point in time, it seems Julia Roberts will probably win the Oscar for Best Actress. "Erin Brokovich" may well have a great shot at being Best Picture. The film's director, Steven Soderberg, is at the top of his game at the moment, and EB made money. So Soderberg may well win for Best Director, eihter for EB or for the soon to be released "Traffic". Kate Hudson and Joaqiun Phoenix both appear to have really good chances in their respective supporting categories, but anything can happen. Best Actor is wid open, anybody could win. Anybody but Russell Crowe, that is. His role in "Gladiator" is not the type the Academy likes. So Crowe will probably not get a nomination this year. Both John Malkovich and Willem Dafoe are getting good buzz for "Shadow of the Vampire". Consequently one or the other, or both, of them are possibilities for a Best Actor nod. Still, you never know.

Regarding "Design for Living" and the Roundabout Theatre--I assume that single performance tickets will be available in the future? Since I don't live in NYC, I can't go to a series...

Something guaranteed to get the juices going. ;-) From the Sunday Times: Film boss says 'snob' Britons can't be stars Nicholas Hellen, Media Editor THE Americans have it, but the British don't. One of Hollywood's top producers has pinpointed why our young actors have so little star quality: they are too snobby. Mike Medavoy, maker of some of the biggest hit films in recent history, including and with close links to stars such as Kevin Costner, Michelle Pfeiffer and Jessica Lange, says young British actors are too obsessed with their craft to realise what excites the cinema-goer. Big-name stars, he claims, always end up playing themselves, while actors are trained to conceal their personality to make the part more convincing. He said: "Being an actor and being a star are at cross purposes: they are entirely different things." He suggested that artistic integrity will always come at the expense of commercial success for Britain. "Perhaps it's because there's a pride in the art of acting and perhaps, rightly, a snobbery about not wanting to be a movie star. "I also detect a resentment here in Britain of people who go on to make it in Hollywood. There is an unhappiness about success, unless someone has spent a long time paying their dues. The only other place where I have noticed something similar is in Canada." While some older British actors, including Sir Sean Connery, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Sir Michael Caine have held on to their charisma, younger names such as Kenneth Branagh and Daniel Day-Lewis have thrown away their chance to make the big time. Medavoy, who has been associated with more than 300 films, including hits such as One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Raging Bull, Dances with Wolves, Platoon, and The Silence of the Lambs, said: "Britain produces more than its fair share of great acting talent, but misses out on producing movie stars." Not even roles in some of the highest-grossing movies of all time have been enough to guarantee young British actors a place on the A-list. Kate Winslet returned to low-budget movies such as Hideous Kinky and Holy Smoke after co-starring with Leonardo DiCaprio in Titanic, and Ewan McGregor is still waiting for a breakthrough as a leading man after appearing in Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace. Other performers who he believes could have used their talent to achieve much greater popularity include Gary Oldman, Rupert Everett and Kenneth Branagh. Medavoy believes that while a British actor would be proud of going unrecognised in a film, true stars resent demands to immerse themselves in a role. "I once asked Marlon Brando why he always looked so miserable at the beginning of a day's filming, and he said, "Can you imagine what it is like going to work each day and having to pretend you are someone else?' " It is a dilemma unlikely to embroil Arnold Schwarzenegger as he seeks to achieve another global hit with The Sixth Day, Medavoy's latest movie, released this weekend. Medavoy's conclusions about the inadequacies of local acting talent will dismay the British film industry as it defies a string of recent low-budget flops to embark on a range of big-budget movies costing hundreds of millions of pounds. So who may yet be a force to be reckoned with? Medavoy singles out Jude Law, who upstaged Matt Damon in The Talented Mr Ripley, Catherine Zeta-Jones, who recently married Michael Douglas, and the foppish actor Hugh Grant. His verdict is endorsed by Alexander Walker, the film critic and biographer of an array of British stars, including Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn. "Stars need to lead extravagant lives off the screen, with spectacular marriage bust-ups, drug habits and a very public rehabilitation." "In this sense, it helped Hugh Grant enormously to be caught with Divine Brown. In the eyes of cinema-goers, it was the sort of behaviour they expect. "

Interesting POV. Thanks, Karen. I agree that Bjork, as much as she deserves it, does not have a chance. The Oscars are a popularity contest and evereyone loves Julia Roberts. I recently rented EB and did not care for it at all. I do not see Rene Z getting nominated and would be happy for Kate B if she did. She is a great actress. Kate Hudson would be a nice surprise too. Almost Famous is a much better pic than Erin B. I have seen the previews for Ang Lee's film as well as Castaway and they both look good.

(Moon) would be happy for Kate B if she did I'm reserving judgment until I see this movie. Kate Hudson would be in the supporting category, which is why RZ has a decent chance. She is the movie's central character rather than one of an ensemble cast or, worse yet, an appendage to a male lead. Despite NB being a comedy, many admired her performance. The Oscars are a popularity contest I think they are a bit more than that. So many other factors come into play besides overall likeability, but it is one of them. ;-)

(Karen) 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. Exactly. Many people felt it was unfortunate that Rush's nom ignored Noah Taylor (I think that's his name), who played the adolescent role and who actually had more screen time than Rush. This is why I'm thinking the Academy *might* be amenable to a joint Ehle/Harris nom. (Karen) 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? I think Hillary Swank has the wifely role, and Cate is the one with The Gift. Obviously, no one has seen it yet--but when has the absence of facts ever stopped us from speculating about something? Hee, hee . . .am just tossing out names and possibilites at this point. Not sure about Burstyn re: lead vs. supporting as I haven't seen that one yet either. See previous comment concerning absence of actual evidence.;-) ;-) (Cheryl) Kate Hudson and Joaqiun Phoenix both appear to have really good chances in their respective supporting categories, Agreed. I thought they were both terrific. Frankly, Joaquin's acting in The Gladiator was one of the few things that really impressed me about that film. Have a possibility of foregoing Christmas decorating later today in favor of moviegoing (bliss). What would ya'll recommend--Requiem for A Dream or You Can Count On Me? Anyone seen both or either?

Thanks Karen...interesting article . ..He suggested that artistic integrity will always come at the expense of commercial success for Britain. "Perhaps it's because there's a pride in the art of acting and perhaps, rightly, a snobbery about not wanting to be a movie star. I think this is a cultural thing...apparently some people do not consider acting in movies artistic...only live theatre counts. But don't you think that's changing? Esp. since so many of the new directors do cross-overs..theatre, TV and movies.

(Mari) Many people felt it was unfortunate that Rush's nom ignored Noah Taylor (I think that's his name), who played the adolescent role and who actually had more screen time than Rush. Yes, that's the one--the youngest--who was the best of the three Davids, but little kids don't get Best Actor Oscars and nominating GR was the route to go. But still don't think that's a good enough reason to double or triple team. It's all about individual performances. The SAG awards recognize an entire cast. (Mari) Cate is the one with The Gift Oooh, that might be significant. ;- Am really ticked that so many of the important films are NOT opening nationwide before sometime in January! All the news items keep saying that the screens are too crowded...with WHAT???? The Grinch?!! Rugrats???!! Bwaaa! (Mari) Requiem for A Dream or You Can Count On Me? Have been meaning to see the former for ages and then wind up at other film at same place (Dancer and the Iranian drunk horse thing). Definitely want to see that one, although I've read hideous things about EB's OTP performance and her awful accent. If anyone watch's That's Life (which I love), she does have a fakey awful NJ accent. Hate the title of the latter. Sounds treacly and trite.

Hi all, Hope you are enjoying the holiday season. Thought you might like to see how the FAA ruled on the pig tale. I hope to be able to post more soon, but seem to be drowning in a sea of tasks commonly known as "The Holidays." (Sometimes this season seems more like Charles Adams than Charles Dickens.) I am in need of chardonnay and Silk Cut�or lots of caffeine (3 of the 4 major food groups).... Or maybe I should acquire a therapeutic pig. :-) From the Associated Press, Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2000: FAA: US Airways was right to allow pig on plane Airways acted reasonably when it allowed pig to fly first class from Philadelphia to Seattle, the Federal Aviation Administration found. Maria Tirotta Andrews brought Charlotte, her 300-pound Vietnamese potbellied pig, on the flight Oct. 17, telling the airline it was a "therapeutic companion pet." Andrews said her heart condition was so severe she needed the pig to relieve stress. "US Airways and its personnel acted in a reasonable and thoughtful manner, based on a legitimate request to transport a qualified individual with a disability and her service animal," said FAA spokesman Jim Peters. Under federal rules, airlines must permit a service animal to accompany passengers to their seats. The airline, embarrassed, filed an incident report with the FAA based on passenger complaints that the pig became unruly when the plane landed. The animal tried to enter the cockpit and refused to leave the galley until a passenger tossed food at her, according to the report. FAA officials interviewed US Airways personn l and passengers after reading an account of the incident in the Philadelphia Daily News and decided Nov. 18 that the airline did nothing wrong, Peters said Wednesday Andrews denies that Charlotte behaved badly during the six-hour flight. "My pig did not run around the plane's aisles. My pig did not run around anywhere," Andrews said. She told the airline ahead of time that she would have the pig on the plane, but said it only weighed 13 pounds. "When they saw it in Philadelphia, they said it was OK to load it on the airplane," Andrews said. The airline permitted the pig into first class for free.

Hilarious story , Lisa.Glad we're getting closure on this;-) THE LAURENCE OLIVIER AWARDS 2001 will take place on Friday 23 February 2001 at the Lyceum Theatre. The twenty-fifth presentation will be recorded and shown on BBC2 television. The nominations for the Awards will be announced mid January 2001. Tickets for the event are expected to go on sale soon!! Not that we care this year.... Wonder what they have against televising this live. I know it's a traditional morning event...but how about making it evening like the Tony's!

LOL! Thought all pigs sat next to me in coach. *snort* ;-)

More on Oscar campaigning from Entertainment Weekly. Notice the only woman in the article has to do with the ultracrowded category of "supporting" (gaah!) Double Jeopardy [EW tells you how actors with two shots at Oscar may lose out. Matt Damon, Russell Crowe, and others could split their own vote] You thought the Palm Beach County ballots were confusing? Imagine what the doddering Academy electorate will make of this year's Oscar race. A handful of contenders--including Russell Crowe, Michael Douglas, and Matt Damon--posted two toutable performances, which means they will not only have to compete against each other, but themselves. So why the double edged sword? Academy rules dictate that actors can receive only one nomination per category, even if they earn enough votes for two. Worse, in this wide open year when the Screen Actors Guild has received 70 percent more video submissions for its awards than in 1999, dueling performances might lead to vote splitting and no recognition at all. Given the high stakes, studios and stars try to prevent any ballot confusion. "Usually the star and his handlers go to one studio and say, 'We would prefer you sit back on this one,'" says Oscar strategist Tony Angellotti. "Nobody wants to spend $200,000 [on a campaign] if the star doesn't want it." Two years ago, Tom Hanks asked Warner Bros. to scrap his You've Got Mail campaign to focus on his role in DreamWorks' Saving Private Ryan. And he got the nomination. Some stars shun politicking altogether. Take Frances McDormand, who'll be pushed for Best Supporting Actress for DreamWorks' Almost Famous and Paramount's Wonder Boys. Says her publicist, Simon Halls: "You don't tell the Academy what they should vote for." Perhaps McDormand should: Some believe a laissez faire attitude backfired last year for Philip Seymour Hoffman, who earned raves for Flawless, Magnolia, and The Talented Mr. Ripley, but no Oscar nod. "He didn't focus on which one he thought was best," says one studio exec. "That cost him." For Douglas, there's an easy solution: Diversify. Though he's top billed in Wonder Boys and USA Films' Traffic, the newlywed is entering himself as Best Actor for Boys and Best Supporting Actor for Traffic. But others, whose roles clearly fall into the same category, don't have that luxury: Crowe headlines DreamWorks' Gladiator and Warner's Proof of Life, while Damon stars in Sony's All the Pretty Horses and DreamWorks' The Legend of Bagger Vance. (With ads promoting both his roles in the Dec. 5 Variety, Crowe says: "That's somebody else's job and somebody else's decision"; Damon will get a stronger push for Horses.) Likewise, Joaquin Phoenix's roles in Gladiator and Fox Searchlight's Quills can only be perceived as supporting. "You have to go with your gut," says his publicist, Susan Patricola, who okayed campaigns for both. Perhaps the contender with the best shot at a double play is Steven Soderbergh, who directed Universal's Erin Brockovich as well as Traffic. Unlike actors, directors can snag two nominations in their category, though it hasn't happened since 1939, when Michael Curtiz earned nods for Angels With Dirty Faces and Four Daughters (he lost to Frank Capra for You Can't Take It With You). It's a situation most prefer to avoid: A source close to Hannibal, the sequel to the 1991 Oscar winner The Silence of the Lambs, says Ridley Scott lobbied for a 2001 release to clear the coliseum for his work in Gladiator. In Soderbergh's case, neither studio is backing down. "We are the current movie," says USA Films chairman Scott Greenstein. "Erin Brockovich is more Julia Roberts' movie, where Traffic is unquestionably anchored by brilliant direction." Responds Universal PR chief Terry Curtin: "Erin Brockovich is no less Steven's vision than Traffic is. It's Steven who shepherded Julia and the story." As for Soderbergh himself? "I tend not to agonize over things I cannot control," he says. "This is one of them." Something tells us the studios would disagree.

(Meredith)Regarding "Design for Living" and the Roundabout Theatre--I assume that single performance tickets will be available in the future? Since I don't live in NYC, I can't go to a series... Yes, single tickets will be available for DFL at the American Airlines Theatre. Tickets are not available yet. Check with the JE website .Previews start on Feb. 15. Opening Night is on March 15th. Sorry I fouled things up last week with the small print....I'm still in a muddle...

So, Mari, what did you wind up seeing? I decided to give "You Can Count on Me" a chance, despite the trite title and the fact that a slave labor Caulkin kid is in it. However, it is very good and so are Laura Linney and Mark Ruffalo. The writing is especially good and intelligent. Makes you want to hear everything the characters say and you get involved with their lives and want to know all about them. OK, so an eight-year-old wouldn't say a homework assignment was "unstructured," it got a big laugh from the audience.

How did I let this one get past me? We've got a birthday today! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARI!!!

Caught me napping as well. Have a happy one, Mari, and btw I have spoken to all those incompetents at my agent's office as you suggested. ;-)

Thanks, Karen. I wasn't worried; I always check this board 27 times before noon.;-) (Figured you were shoveling;-) Tell that guy above that I volunteer to be his personal benchwarmer!:-)

...and I'm still shoveling... :-( I remember how much you enjoyed this pic: and thought it could *bare* repeating. ;-)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARI IOU a glass of Chardonnay at

OK....you get TWOglasses of Chardonnay:-))

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARI , hope you have the best Birthday ever.

All is forgiven for bugging me at the Donmar!

(think I must go face the elements again...brrr)

Hey Empress of the Sky, life in coach will never be the same again;-) (I particularly like your Mona Lisa smile;-))

No birthday's complete without a cake!

Or...

Happy Birthday Mari! Almost missed your party. I have been putting up Christmas decorations all day and I even managed to do an extra tree for you. xxoo Is that my Geoffrey you are flying away with? ;-)

Thanks for all the lovely wishes, Karen, Evelyn, Ann and Moon! Karen, tell the guy at # 1018 that he needs deflowering, and I know just the person to do it!:;-) As for Mr. Westward, um, I think he's done quite enough "picking," thank you very much.;-) Thank goodness you put me in the plane with Ed Pettigrew, and not Geoffrey C-- oi, those hard landings are murder!;-) Prince Chuck! So lovely to have bumped into you at the theatah--glad to see you're not any worse for wear. Now, outta my way.;-) I am holding you to the chardonnay, Evelyn. Meanwhile, have a cuppa on me (& Mickie). Don't let the hidden pieces fool ya!:-) http://www.jigzone.com/ms/pc.php?k=1bld00822 Thank you for the lovely tree, Moon. Am searching for a hgh-ceilinged spot for it.;-) Ann, you're getting very good with the type fonts and colors! (Am I the only one here who can't even do italics? Had I ever learnt, I would be a true proficient!;-)

Don'tlet the hidden pieces fool ya!:-) Got it in a record 3:20 minutes!! For a minute there I lost St. Anthony, but I found him under the expresso pot:-)) Donna has one of SD and JE from TALK mag http://fp.enter.net/~purrfect/awards.htm Great fun....

These puzzles are great. You should try the 35-piece jigzone type. Nasty!

Mari - I am so sorry I missed your birthday. I hope it was a great one

Oh dear, see what happens when I miss a few days around here? Sorry I missed your birthday, Mari, but I see you were busy tooling around the sky with Edward (tell him those goggles have got to go, BTW). Here's to my former neighbor, to whom I used to wave from the scenic *cough* A few of our Jersey friends send their best: So I missed your birtday, Mari. You live too f**king far down the f**king turnpike. I wouldn't be caught dead below exit 12 (just look what happened to Big Pussy when he took exit 11). Then there's Stevie--he's always goin to Asbury wit his pal... Happy birthday, Mari! Have you been a good girl this year? I haven't seen you in the Stone Pony, though it could be 'cause it's been torn down. Damn. Tried to get it rebuilt, but I got all my money tied up with Patti and the kids--there is one guy around here who's got plenty, though... Mari! I spent skatey-eight kabillion dollars on your birthday campaign and look where it got me. I hope you had a terrific day and that you remember to vote for me again in six years when my money is gone. ~~~~~~ *clink* Here's to Mari! Keep us laughin', girl.

Late again...So sorry, Mari! I hope you had a Fantastic Birthday

Thank you, Aishling, Eileen and Gi! Aishling, it was very wise that you limited the candles to one; actual number may have caused dangerous levels of smoke inhalation around here.;-) Eileen, I'm glad to see you still have pull among the Jersey set! *I'm waving at you from Exit 3* Happy that Tony (da boss) and Bruuuuce (The Boss) could check in with us! Wonder how Jon-boy will make due on that measly Senate salary.;-) Gi, I love my bluebird of happiness!:-) Thanks, everyone, for the fun and the smiles!:-)

Happy Birthday, Mari. May many enjoyable things be in store for you this year.

Happy Birthday Mari

Just got back from my mother's wedding! ( ...In Pensacola -- she's 82!!) ... and I just discovered that something of importance had transpired while I was out of town! So here (belatedly) are my wishes for a ... Very Happy Birthday Mari! Hope It was a Happy One! All My best Wishes, KJ

Test, Test

According to Annova, Neil Pearson is also in Armadillo, now could he be Torquil? Not that I care anymore, oh hum.

(KJArt)Just got back from my mother's wedding! ( ...In Pensacola -- she's 82!!) Is this true? What a lovely thought! Congratulations to your Mother!

Thank you, Cheryl, Lucie, and KJ! Love the balloons! KJ, congrats to your mom--I think that's great, and may she and her new hubby have many healthy and happy years ahead.

The New York Film Critics Circle is currently voting, and announcing the winners as they decide them. So far: BEST LEAD ACTOR--Tom Hanks for Cast Away BEST LEAD ACTRESS--Laura Linney for You Can Count On Me* BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR--Benicio Del Toro for Traffic *BTW, this is the one I opted for the other night, Karen. Agree with your assessment; I liked it very very much. What an intelligently written and acted little film. Even the Culkin baby was good.:-) Truly a film about real people and real relationships and life events, with no pat answers or contrivances. Laura deserves her award; wouldn't have minded seeing Mark Ruffalo sneak in there too, but I hear Benny DT is v. good.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS; Marcia Gay Harden for Pollock "Taffic"(another drug movie?) seems to be getting lots of mention. Where are they getting these film?They don't play in my neck of the woods. Castaway hasn't even been released yet.

Neat! Did you realize that the director played Father Ron?

Traffic hasn't opened yet. I read that it will only open in LA at the end of the year and go national in mid-January. Pollock is nowhere. Did fests, but isn't anywhere to be seen, except maybe NY and LA if at all.

Here's the full list. Karen, "Father Ron" got best screenplay!;-): 2000 New York Film Critics Circle Awards (12/13/2000 2:04pm EST) : All Voting Has Been Completed. Best Picture TRAFFIC, USA Films. Best Actor TOM HANKS, for CAST AWAY, Twentieth Century Fox and Dreamworks L.L.C. Best Actress LAURA LINNEY, for YOU CAN COUNT ON ME, Paramount Classics and TSG Pictures. Best Supporting Actor BENICIO DEL TORO, for TRAFFIC, USA Films. Best Supporting Actress MARCIA GAY HARDEN, for POLLOCK, Sony Pictures Classics. Best Director STEVEN SODERBERGH, for ERIN BROCKOVICH, Universal Pictures and TRAFFIC, USA Films. Best Screenplay KEN LONERGAN, for YOU CAN COUNT ON ME, Paramount Classics and TSG Pictures. Best Cinematographer PETER PAU, for CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON, Sony Pictures Classics. Best Foreign Film YI YI(A ONE AND A TWO), WinStar Cinema. Best Non-Fiction Film THE LIFE AND TIMES OF HANK GREENBERG, Distributed by Cowboy Booking International. Best Animated Film CHICKEN RUN, Dreamworks L.L.C. Best First Film GEORGE WASHINGTON, Cowboy Booking International. SPECIAL AWARD JULES DASSIN, DIRECTOR OF RIFIFI, and to Rialto Pictures for Re-Releasing the Film. SPECIAL AWARD THE SHOOTING GALLERY, (NY Production Company), For Their Ingenious Distribution Pattern as well as their choice of films.

Aw....I was hoping for NLB for Best Director.He deserved it more than Steven Soderbergh, IMO. Best First Film GEORGE WASHINGTON, Cowboy Booking International. Grrrrr beating out DQ! I know you're cheering for GW, Karen ;-)

In case anyone is interested, below is who comprises the NY Film Critics Circle. Evelyn, there's such a glut of year-end films, coupled with not enough screens(they're not going to pull existing money-makers out of the theaters) that a lot of these films will just get the one-week Oscar qualifying run in LA, and then get rolled out throughout the country in January, and into February I'd imagine. Don't worry, we'll see (and discuss;-) them all. Aren't you glad that BJD got pushed back to mid-April?:-) Thelma Adams, US WEEKLY John Anderson, NEWSDAY David Ansen, NEWSWEEK Jami Bernard, NEW YORK DAILY NEWS Dwight Brown, AMSTERDAM NEWS Bob Campbell, NEWHOUSE NEWS SERVICE Godfrey Cheshire, NEW YORK PRESS Richard Corliss, TIME David Denby, THE NEW YORKER Marshall Fine, GANNETT NEWSPAPERS Jonathan Foreman, NY POST Owen Gleiberman, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY J. Hoberman, VILLAGE VOICE Stephen Holden, THE NEW YORK TIMES Andrew Johnston, US WEEKLY Dennis Lim, VILLAGE VOICE Dave Kehr, CITYSEARCH.COM Jack Mathews, NEW YORK DAILY NEWS Elvis Mitchell, THE NEW YORK TIMES Joe Morgenstern, WALL ST. JOURNAL Terrence Rafferty, GQ Peter Rainer, NEW YORK MAGAZINE Rex Reed, THE NEW YORK OBSERVER Leah Rozen, PEOPLE MAGAZINE Andrew Sarris, THE NEW YORK OBSERVER Richard Schickel, TIME Lisa Schwarzbaum, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY A.O. Scott, THE NEW YORK TIMES Matt Zoller Seitz, NEW YORK PRESS Gene Seymour, NEWSDAY John Simon, NATIONAL REVIEW David Sterritt, CHRISTIAN SCIENCE MONITOR Peter Travers, ROLLING STONE Amy Taubin, VILLAGE VOICE Armond White, NEW YORK PRESS

(Mari) Aren't you glad that BJD got pushed back to mid-April?:-) Not really. It's going to go head to head with the Julia Roberts-Brad Pitt romantic comedy, The Mexican, which opens end of March. Too bad I can't get to the only description of who/how they vote for the National Board of Review award. It's not very impressive IMO.

*sneaking in way behind the others in manner of tardy schoolgirl, hoping nobody'll notice* MARI, HERE'S WISHING YOU A BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

*trying again* MARI, HERE'S WISHING YOU A BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Aren't you glad that BJD got pushed back to mid-April?:-) And Sunshine last June.At this time of the year, it would never see the light of day. Out the 35 members of the NY Film Critcs Circle panel of judges only 5 are women. What's the deal here?

I am glad BJD got pushed back because I might be London around then. :-) Agree with you Karen, the list is not very impressive. But that must be why I do not agree with them. ;-) Loved the YiYi and Rififi. ;-D

I was referring to the people who voted in the National Board of Review awards, not the NY Film Critics. But I'm sure you wouldn't be impressed with that group's composition either. ;-)))

(Gi)(KJArt)Just got back from my mother's wedding! ( ...In Pensacola -- she's 82!!) Is this true? What a lovely thought! Congratulations to your Mother! (Mari) KJ, congrats to your mom--I think that's great,... Thank you! I'll tell her! (Mari) ... and may she and her new hubby have many healthy and happy years ahead. They just might,too. Would you believe he's a decade younger than she is! So much for "sell-by dates." **Hee hee**

A cradle-robber, huh? ;-) Lovely news, KJ.

Tracy, you can be a tardy schoolgirl any time you want--many thanks for the balloons and good wishes! (I love balloons, so festive.) Karen, maybe if they separate the 2 films by a few weeks it will be ok. I guess there will always be competition, and these release schedules tend to be very , er, fluid. Moon, you might like Traffic; I read somewhere that it's 20% not in English. Hee, hee;-) KJ, your mom sounds like my kind of lady! More power to her.

Moon, you might like Traffic; I read somewhere that it's 20% not in English. Hee, hee;-) As long as the 80% that is spoken in English is real English. ;-) It looks like Chocolat, Quills and Castaway are opening here tomorrow. What to do?

TIME Magazine in their Dec. 18th issue ranks the best and worst films: BEST TEN: 1. CROUCHING TIGER 2. YOU CAN COUNT ON ME 3. GEORGE WASHINGTON ( I hear *gag, gag*, from the peanut gallery;-) 4. SUNSHINE (Ahem...) 5. CHICKEN RUN 6. BEST IN SHOW 7. THE COLOR OF PARADISE 8. NURSE BETTY 9. PROOF OF LIFE 10.EAST-WEST WORST: DANCER IN THE DARK: "Some critics think Lars von Trier's musical tragedy is quite the best film of 2000. But that can't stop us from deploring this drab, sadistic ordeal, starring poor Bjork as a noble , victimied mom going both blind and daft. The film lacks craft, logic and any grace in it songs and dance. If this is the future of movies, give us the past."

If this is the future of movies, give us the past." I beg to differ and that goes for the whole Danish film movement too. Choices like Chicken Run and Best in Show which was so not funny tell all I need about this reviewer. I also know how Karen feels about George Washington and I believe her.

(Moon) I also know how Karen feels about George Washington and I believe her. But you might like it. ;-) I thought it was the biggest YAWN ever. Aside from cinematography, it seems to be appealing to those who like Terrence Malick. Remember I loved Wonderland and you didn't ;-)

Remember I loved Wonderland and you didn't ;-) True. I did notice some of the films listed dealt with the usual riff-raff. I like my movie experience to take me away from it all not throw it in my face.

*struggling through the jungle... fighing off airplane-sized mosquitoes... being chased by an outraged 400 pound boar with tusks which could eviscerste at a single whip ofhis head... worst of all, competing with others who have been late in getting Mari her Birthday flowers: HAUOLI NA HANAU, MARI Sweetheart Orchid Lei This is the latest in lei designs, made from over 1000 individual Dendrobium petals. Light purple edges, dark purple in the middle. Very rare and hardy.

How beautiful, Marcia! Match that with a pair of drop amethyst earrings and the look is set. :-) I have started on my champagne holiday cheer. Hic, hic, hooray! ;-)

Spectacular Marcia.1000 rare orchids! How much does one like that cost? (Nothing is too good for our Mari, though:-))

Oh, Maricia, that is beautiful! The contast of the light and dark purples (one of my fave colors, BTW) is breathtaking. Mahalo, dear! I'm curious: how long does it take to make something like this? Truly an art, and reminiscent of a very happy (but too far in the past) trip I took to your lovely corner of the earth. Time to go back, I've just decided. Will tell hubby to start saving.:-)

That was a special order lei and it costs online over $80. Loads of orchids taken apart and petals strung into patters. Never saw one like that before! Delighted you like it - sorry it was a tad late... made to order, you know!!!

Nice plug for DFL from Liz Smith in her column today: THE ROUNDABOUT Theatre Company is bursting with exciting new projects like "Design for Living," previewing Feb. 16. Tony Award-winner Alan Cumming, who stunned us so in "Cabaret," and the lovely Jennifer Ehle create a love triangle with Dominic West, in a production directed by Joe Mantello. Sounds hot? Right on! Add Marisa Berenson, John Cunningham, T. Scott Cunningham and Jenny Sterling to the mix.

Uh oh, Evelyn's gonna be mad. No mention that Jenn was ALSO a Tony Award winner. So Dominic West completes the trio. He was Lysander in the recent movie of A Midsummer Night's Dream http://www.foxsearchlight.com/midfinal/html/dominic.html

HBO TO MINE MALE 'MIND' Story follows trio of scribes who try to remain faithful By MELISSA GREGO Next on HBO -- the guys' answer to "Sex and the City." The pay cabler is expected to order 10 episodes of "The Mind of the Married Man" imminently.Skein has been in development at the pay cabler for two years. The pilot, which went into production this fall, stars Jake Weber, Taylor Nichols and Mike Binder, who created the series (Daily Variety, Oct. 31). It will be exec produced by "Everybody Loves Raymond" exec producer Stu Smiley, Binder and his manager at 3 Arts Entertainment, Michael Rotenberg. Story follows a trio of reporters at a Chicago newspaper who try in vain to remain faithful. M. Emmet Walsh plays their editor. [Warning!]"It's about love, romance and monogamy in the workplace and home and in the family -- things people wrestle with every day," Smiley said. "There are many different points of view about marriage; it's always a very volatile, interesting area, and that's why we're confident it will be a very fertile show." Smiley said that Binder's aim for "Married" is to root it in reality. "We have the freedom and also the responsibility to make it balanced, with a balanced male voice and with a female voice," Smiley added. "That way people can see their own lives in this show." [Ed note: They must be joking!] HBO declined to comment.

If DOminic West could do it so could Colin have done, oh I have to say I am a little disappointed.

(Karen)Uh oh, Evelyn's gonna be mad. No mention that Jenn was ALSO a Tony Award winner. Thanks Mari.. Have already called publicist in NY and asked for correction.Bio has it,so does press release... "JENNIFER EHLE (Gilda) received a Tony Award for Best Actress and an Outer Critics Circle Award nomination for her role as Annie in The Real Thing". Also a BAFTA Best Actress for P&P , BAFTA nomination Best Supporting Actress for Wilde & Genie[Canadian] nomination for Best Actress in Sunshine. (Ann)If DOminic West could do it so could Colin have done Give up Ann..[I have!]..he won't travel.

PS Thanks for the URL of Dominic West ,Karen. Ticket information for DFL will be posted on the website.Single tickets will go on sale first week in Feb.Opening night March 15th.Play runs through May 6th.

... he won't travel Yes but Dominic West!, what happened to Rupert Everett?

what happened to Rupert Everett? Previous engagement;-) Filming "The Importance of Being Earnest"in the spring.

(Evelyn) Have already called publicist in NY and asked for correction. From whom? Liz Smith chose not to include it in her copy.

Evelyn) Have already called publicist in NY and asked for correction. (Karen)From whom? Liz Smith chose not to include it in her copy. I like to think that Liz Smith overlooked it;-) Correction: PR bio neglected to include: Nominated for Olivier for Best Actress in TRT (London) Won Variety Showbusiness Award for Best Actress in TRT (London) Won Theatre World Award Best Actress in TRT (Broadway) If we don't lookout for her, who will? She only has one website. (They listed every "village" award that Alan Cumming won!)

Durr. Just woke up and found I missed your birthday, Mari. For you the perfect man.. ...he never forgets a birthday or anniversary (though a girl might expect him to spring for more than paper hearts). Have a great year.

Waah, I'm rusty. Just think of Geoffrey in his braces, ;-)

This is to put to rest for all time what is worn under a regulation kilt in strict military procedure from someone who knows wereof he speaks: Neil Dear...

Hello everyone. Marcia asked me to post some information on the wearing of kilts in Canadian military units. For myself, I can only refer to this second hand, having never worn a kilt (yet), and as the Canadian Armed Forces Land Reserve unit I served with (The Hastings & Prince Edward Regiment, 'B' Company) was issued only a standard CAF dress uniform, and standard CAF BDU (Battle Dress Uniform), and this is the case with most CAF units. However, there are exceptions to this, particularly with the Scottish Regiments. My very close friend, Rev. Sam Buick, who was a sargeant with the Toronto Scottish Regiment some years ago told me that their unit's Regimental Dress Regulations required that if wearing full dress uniform, which included the kilt, at a special Regimental Parade or Mess, that the regiment's members were NOT permitted to wear any form of underwear or athletic support while on parade or at the mess. The only time such garments were permitted to be worn was when travelling to or from the regiment n public, or if the parade formation was to be held in public. This dress code was rigidly enforced in the TorScot's, and any man appearing at a Regimental function wearing such garments was in fact considered out of uniform. Regular unit parades were held in standard battle dress. I do not know how these reg's applied to female members of the unit.

and to think that we are required to wear underwear as a matter of health!! do they allow females to wear kilts?

Thanks, Neil! Great question Wolfie! That might not always be conventient. I have a floor length one with sash and cairngorm brooch in heavy hand carved silver...

Hi Wolfie. Yes, female members of the regiment are supplied with a dress kilt for the dress uniform, but as I mentioned, I don't know how the reg's applied to them when it came to wearing (or not wearing, as the case may be) underwear for special Regimental Parades or Messes. Also, there are several Scottish and Irish regiments in the CAF--almost all are in the infantry reserves, but I think there are still a couple in the regular forces--so I obviously can't say if the same rules apply across the board in all units, but it should be noted that these units are the exception when it comes to the Queen's Own Regulation's (Q.O.R.'s) regarding dress codes, and that their uniforms are based on tradition, not practicality, as a kilt would be no friend to a soldier on the modern battlefield. I do remember that Sam did put me into his full dress kit once, as we're of similar size and build, and I can tell you the TorScot dress uniform is quite heavy and not especially colourful, with white dress shirt and black tie a heavy wool tartan kilt in mostly neutral colours, sporrin, a heavy wool jacket, belt, wedge cap, and a tartan sash. They wore high white woolen kneesocks with regimental badges, and heavy black oxfords built for marching. I was actually struck by the weight of it and was grateful I never wore it hot weather, and I was surprised by it's lack of any distinctive colour. But that's not really surprising as in my unit the only striking colour worn was a bright scarlet combat beret with polish brass cap badge, and that was only worn when the unit was away from home base--everything else was dark green, with the exception of rank and decorations.

(Neil) For myself, I can only refer to this second hand, having never worn a kilt (yet) Ha! What about those pictures posted on Geo of you in your kilt? ;-) So let me get this straight, when they're amongst their own, no undies. But when they're out amongst strangers, yes, undies. Makes one wonder what goes on in those regimental messes that underwear might thwart. ;-) Thanks the explanation, Neil.

Alas, it was not Neil in that Photo... but whomever it was, he was a cute cheeky devil, yes???

Chuckle--nope, t'ain't me! One last thing, the regimental kilts are quite heavy to start with, and are weighted in the front, and may have been all around the hem, but I don't remember . They also have some kind of lining around the waist area to protect the wearer's skin and to protect the kilt from the wearer. And no, I didn't go "regimental" when I tried the thing on, my skivvies stayed in place...

Karen, I am deleting Yapp's double posts of my comments. Nothing nefarious going on...

This belongs on Jon's page, but it's too late to go looking for the number. Anyway, this project of his appears to be full of rumpy-pumpy scenes: Queen Victoria is raunchy lover in BBC series By Oliver Poole QUEEN VICTORIA and Prince Albert are portrayed as a "lusty couple" who were obsessed with sex in a multi-million-pound BBC costume drama. The series dramatises the intimate events of their wedding night. Victoria will also be shown ogling the young Albert when he wore tight trousers, and revealing in her diary the sexual desire she felt for the dashing German aristocrat. Monarchists have expressed themselves upset by what has been described as a classic "bodice-ripper". The sexual antics in the BBC1 drama are not limited to the royal couple in the documentary, which has been commissioned to mark the 100th anniversary of Queen Victoria's death next year. The two-part series reveals in graphic detail the liaisons of one of her lord chamberlains. Prince Albert is shown barging in on Lord Uxbridge while he is making love to his half-naked mistress, who had been secreted into Buckingham Palace for illicit couplings between royal duties. Sarah Bradford, Viscountess Bangor, the royal biographer and historian, said the series was a new "low" for the BBC. She said: "I think it is a bit sad really. What people do in bed is never factual unless it is photographed, witnessed or whatever." Donald Foreman, the secretary of the Monarchist League, said the treatment would anger many of the society's members. He said: "It is true Queen Victoria very much enjoyed sex but they will think it is not appropriate to be poking behind the royal curtains. It is a bit like your own grandmother's private life being revealed." The BBC was criticised for excessive eroticism in its dramas after a production of Anthony Trollope's novel The Way We Live Now added a number of sex scenes not included in the original novel. David Cunliffe, of the production company own 2 feet, which is making the series, said the decision to portray Britain's longest ruling monarch as sex-crazed was based on historical fact. He said: "People always portray her as not liking sex but she loved it. She obviously fancied Albert rotten. When Victoria met him before they were married she said, 'Gosh he is absolutely gorgeous', and when you look at pictures he was a bit of a dish." Mr Cunliffe, who produces the series, said that the programme, to be called Victoria and Albert, was unashamedly popular, focusing less on the political dramas of the time than the love affair between the married couple. Their sexual relationship has been most graphicly illustrated on their wedding night. Although the Queen is not shown completely naked, the couple disrobe and then passionately embrace as they consummate their marriage. Mr Cunliffe said: "To all our knowledge they did consummate their marriage on the wedding night but it is not shown as writhing flesh. It is actually rather touching." The series, which cost �5 million to make, is to be one of the highlights of the BBC's spring season. Its glittering cast includes Diana Rigg as Victoria's governess Lehzen, Nigel Hawthorne as Lord Melbourne, David Suchet as the German diplomat Baron Stockmar and Peter Ustinov as William IV. Queen Victoria is played by Victoria Hamilton, who appeared in Mansfield Park, and Albert by Jonathan Firth, who was in the cast of the TV film A Likeness In Stone. Both age 20 years over the two programmes as the series covers the period from just before Victoria ascended to the throne, when she was 18, to Albert's death from typhoid at the age of 42. It is directed by John Ermen, the American director of the TV documentary Roots. Arundel Castle in Sussex doubled for Windsor Castle and Lancing College for Westminster Abbey. The Crystal Palace, built for the 1851 Great Exhibition which Albert supervised, has been recreated using computer technology and will be shown in all its original glory. Queen Victoria's clothes and private rooms, including her bedchamber, have been recreated from drawings and descriptions from the period.

Although the Queen is not shown completely naked, the couple disrobe and then passionately embrace as they consummate their marriage What a pity we have to make do with little bro in this role! On a different matter which may belong on #134 rather than here. Nick Hornby is locked in battle with Camden Council to buy a property they were bequeathed in Fitzroy Park in Highgate (sometimes called the last country lane left in London). The house was left to the Council with the stipulation that it be used by a charity or for some voluntary project. NH wants to buy it for the Tree House Trust to set up a school for autistic children. The Council wants the Trust to pay �4million which NH says they cannot afford. He says that what the Council really want to do is to sell it to developers and that the asking price reflects that. I shall keep you posted on developments! I think there might have been something about this in the Evening Standard recently. Shall go and check.

Victoria will also be shown ogling the young Albert when he wore tight trousers ditto above comment. ;-) Interesting news item, Allison, and in right place. If however you hear of a protest against the Council, especially those involving paper chains, do let us know on 134. ;-)

Los Angeles Critics Honor 'Crouching Tiger' LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Director Ang Lee's romance set in western China, "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," was named the best film of 2000 by Los Angeles film critics on Saturday as Hollywood heads into its awards season. The Los Angeles Film Critics Association named "Wonderboys" runner-up and handed "Wonderboys" star Michael Douglas the title best actor for his portrayal of a college professor dealing with a new prodigy on campus. Julia Roberts grabbed the best actress honor for her role as environmental activist Erin Brockovich in the movie of the same name, and director Steven Soderbergh was named best director for his work on both "Erin Brockovich" and the upcoming "Traffic," about the drug wars in the United States. Combined with the National Board of Review awards and the New York Film Critics Circle honors handed out earlier this month, the L.A. film critics give movie fans a clearer idea of what media writers think are the best films of the year. This year, however, the only picture to emerge is that Hollywood"s major studios are being shut out of the critics' awards in favor of moderately budgeted, independently-styled films like the drama "Quills," the National Board of Review's best film, and "Traffic," picked by the New York Film Critics Circle. Next up, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association nominates movies and stars Thursday for its annual Golden Globe awards, and a host of honors follow culminating in the U.S. film industry's top awards, the Oscars, handed out in March. Lee's "Crouching Tiger" has been one of this season"s most talked about films in Hollywood for the director"s ability to blend a moving love story with top-notch martial arts action. Lee, whose previous films include 1997's critically-acclaimed family drama "The Ice Storm," was named runner-up in the favorite director category to Soderbergh. Best actor runner-up was Javier Bardem for "Before Night Falls," which is based on the memoirs of Cuban novelist and poet Reinaldo Arenas. Laura Linney, who portrays a single woman dealing with the return home of her estranged brother in "You Can Count on Me," was named runner-up to Roberts for the title best actress. "Count On Me," which shared the best dramatic film award at the Sundance Film Festival this year, also claimed best screenplay honors for its writer, Kenneth Lonergan. Other picks from the Los Angeles film critics were Willem Dafoe as best supporting actor in "Shadow of the Vampire" and Frances McDormand as best supporting actress for her work in two films, "Almost Famous" and "Wonderboys." Favorite foreign film went to Edward Yang"s "Yi Yi (A One and a Two)," and best documentary was Mark Singer"s "Dark Days." Best animated film was "Chicken Run," directed by Nick Park.

Wonderboys, a blast from the past. I had forgotten it. I hope Ang Lee goes all the way to the Oscar. Erin B is not best pic material. I saw the previews to Traffic and it looks very promising. Great camera work. Quills was a disappointment, although J Rush will clinch Best Actor IMO. DH said that J Phoenix can not act. ;-) I have seen him do better in Gladiator. He is still very cute. It is a typical move of the NY critics to award such a film. So let me get this straight, when they're amongst their own, no undies. But when they're out amongst strangers, yes, undies. Makes one wonder what goes on in those regimental messes that underwear might thwart. ;-) My thoughts exactly, Karen! ;-) Thanks, Neil and Marcia.

(Moon) Erin B is not best pic material. Agree with you on this one. Sounds like Traffic will be the one, with Soderbergh getting best director ostensibly for that one, but voters will do it for both. CTHD would have to be for best foreign language film, although it is not beyond belief (this year) to split the best film/best director category. (Moon) Quills was a disappointment, although J Rush will clinch Best Actor IMO. DH said that J Phoenix can not act. ;-) I have seen him do better in Gladiator. Not a disappointment to me, but not *great* Agree about Geoffrey Rush. A shoe-in for a nomination. But totally disagree about J Phoenix. He's bound to be nominated for this one, more so than Gladiator. It was a killer part, and was very happily surprised that Kate Winslet's role was so substantial. Almost as if the three had nearly equal parts and all meaty. Each of them was very very good IMO.