LOL!

I just found this from Sky News, and I don't think it's been posted: "Hugh Grant plans to quit acting - because the pressure of performing is "torture". Grant told the Daily Express he hopes to retire in 2004 - the 10th anniversary of Four Weddings and a Funeral, which propelled him to stardom. " I think 10 years would be a good time to finish, and it's eight now, so I'd only have to make one or two more films," he said. The 41-year-old star said he is overcome with fear whenever he steps in front of a camera. 'It's torture' "For me it's physiological. The pressure's so great. It's torture. It's been like that for years and it's getting worse." Grant said when he gives up his acting career he intends to: "have a relationship, have some children, write my book, make my own film, stop faffing around." I hope it was just an April's Fool Joke

If this were true (and not something taken completely out of context), it would be bad...because???? ;-D

Huge has been "threatening" that for as long as I can remember. Take with a large grain of salt. Cate Blanchett is reported to be playing Sylvia Plath in the BBC film. So, Gwynnie is out of the picture? Well, Cate would be a good choice, too, but she seems to have a rather full dance card these days. ("avec Colin Firth") scheduled for release in France in 2005!! At this rate, it will be Grandmaman of Buttermere. ;-)

If this were true (and not something taken completely out of context), it would be bad...because???? ;-D Hehee. For some of us though, there was Hugh before there was Colin ;)

(Megan)For some of us though, there was Hugh before there was Colin ;) But I thought they were born in the same month of the same year ;-O just have to say it out loud

"About a boy" will be released in the UK in a couple of weeks. Great timing! "Hugh to quit" "'I've had enough' says tortured Hugh" "'Why I want a baby' by Hugh Grant"....the tabloids will love it!

"Hugh to quit" "'I've had enough' says tortured Hugh" "'Why I want a baby' by Hugh Grant"....the tabloids will love it! Hehee. Problably they'll be so estatic about the wanting a family bit, that immediatly the press will pair Liz and Hugh back together.

I just came back from visiting www.tiffany.com. Am I the last person on the planet to realize that Bridget's necklace can be ordered so easily? It's called the Elsa Perreti Open Heart Pendant and costs $110. I think Bridget's was the 1" medium on a 18" chain in sterling silver. It's even cooler when I think that CF (in the character of Charles Gould) mentions Tiffany silver.

(Caribou) I just came back from visiting www.tiffany.com. Am I the last person on the planet to realize that Bridget's necklace can be ordered so easily? It's called the Elsa Perreti Open Heart Pendant and costs $110. I think Bridget's was the 1" medium on a 18" chain in sterling silver. From experience, I know it's not the Elsa Perreti Open Heart 1". I ordered the Medium (7/8 of an inch) for my birthday (sweet 16 today, yay!) thinking it was the one Bridget had. When I recived it last week though, the heart was much MUCH larger than her's. I've sent it back for the small, which should be the size Bridget has. Also, if any one has seen The American Embassy on Fox Monday nights, it looks like the main character also has the 'Bridget' necklace, if I'm not mistaken.

Sterling silver for $110?? Yikes! Here's what you're paying for: T-i-f-f-a-n-y. Hmmm. Must rifle through my jewelery box. This type of necklace was quite popular in the '70s or '80s.

Your right, Eileen. That heart necklace has been around for decades. I was surprised to see it on Bridget as films usually promote new trinkets. Happy Birthday Megan!

(Eileen) This type of necklace was quite popular in the '70s or '80s. It's possible that this is the necklace that started that trend and it has either never left the Tiffany offerings or was discontinued and recently brought back. Tiffany also features designs by Picasso's daughter and Louis Comfort Tiffany (widely known for the lamps) both of which seem to be from years ago. Megan, let me know what you think of the small. I saw one and it looked very small and the large is very large.

(Moon) I was surprised to see it on Bridget as films usually promote new trinkets. Think it was meant to be symbolic (dangling heart, get it?). Bet they didn't lay down 110 clams...;-)

(Caribou) Megan, let me know what you think of the small. I saw one and it looked very small and the large is very large. My friend has the small one, and I agree that it looks smaller than Bridget's, which is why I went for the medium, but there's no doubt in my mind that the medium is too large. (Eileen)Think it was meant to be symbolic (dangling heart, get it?). Bet they didn't lay down 110 clams...;-) At the InStyle website they said they chose the heart because it looked like something she would have gotten for her 21st birthday, and was symbolic of Bridget's romantic fantasies.

(Eileen) Think it was meant to be symbolic (dangling heart, get it?). The necklace's name is the Open Heart Pendant - which would fit Bridget: single, looking for love with a open heart. I love touches like that in movies. The only other heart I've seen in BJD is the red, heart-shaped pillow on her couch. I love that - wish they had done more. Thanks, Megan.

There was a post today at Dregston on the Pant Board referring to a quote by RZ at the Oscars about the BDJ sequel and how excited she was to be working with a certain co-star, the implcation being CF. I went to the link and scanned the column and, of course found nothing. Here it is for anyone who can find it! http://www.eonline.com/Gossip/index.html?fdnavgos

I didn't see anything on the page you gave, but I did find this bit about Renee talking about the sequel in last weeks's The Awful Truth: "Ren�e Zellweger, looking very grown up (and very un-Bridget Jones in her too-together Carolina Herrera strapless satin), announced: "You guys are crazy!" I think the purty Texan had finally had enough of the on-the-record roundup, which included, interestingly enough, eager proclamations to do the Jones sequel, something she had not been as hyped about last time we chatted, thanks to cold 'n' dreary London weather." Could that possibly be it?

Shoot. Forget the end tag.

I wouldn't believe *anything* in a Ted Casablanca column, and now they've got him in person on E! News Daily.

In Marilyn Beck's column today: April 11, 2002 Dear Marilyn: Are there any plans to do the sequel to Bridget Jones's Diary, Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason? If so, will it be the same cast? Krista, Lexington, New York Dear Krista: Working Title Films, the company that produced Bridget Jones's Diary, does have the rights to Helen Fielding's follow-up, Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason. And there has been talk that they plan to make a big-screen production of the latter novel. However, that is still a long way off, and none of the original cast members--Ren�e Zellweger, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth--have been signed. Fielding, who created the role of Bridget's uptight lover, Mark Darcy, specifically for Firth, has made it clear she'd love him to return for the sequel.

I'd say her answer covered all the relevant points, Mari, except perhaps that they have at least one draft of a script, possibly more by this time. ******** Something to put into your "Visit England" files: A new website has been launched offering film fans the chance to visit movie locations by rail. The site features more than 100 classic movie locations, and encourages travellers to use the railways to visit them. The locations includes settings from Goldeneye, Gladiator, Brief Encounter, Harry Potter and Bridget Jones's Diary. www.reeltorail.co.uk has been launched by the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC). It was launched by Pierce Brosnan's stunt double, Douglas James. A spokesman said: "Reel to Rail offers you the chance to retrace the steps of your favourite film stars. "Using the UK's extensive rail network gives you access to Britain's top film locations. With on-line ticketing and travel advice available anytime, you can put your feet up and look forward to a fuss-free ride." The website features Film Finder and Travel Planner services to allow film fans to track down the locations where their favourite scenes were shot, and plan their rail journeys accordingly. The locations featured on the website include the Nene Valley railway, the setting for the famous train-top chase in Goldeneye. They also include Alnwick Castle, which was transformed into Hogwart's School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone, and Snowshill in Gloucestershire, which was used in Bridget Jones' Diary.

Thank you Karen. BJD can be done by tube...cheaper. Rail travel in UK is expensive. I've emailed them and asked them to include the locations for Pride and Prejudice. Lyme Park (Pemberley) is a stinker to get to.

BJD video is being released in Australia with extra footage, does anyone know what this footage is? If it's HG then I will stay with ex rental copy.

I don't know if the footage is the same but I own the USA BJD DVD with additional scenes and it's ALL HG. No CF anywhere! I hope the Australian version is better.

There is a list of the deleted scenes on the US DVD way back when on this topic (September?? when the DVD came out). You can find it by backing up with the redisplay box below (putting in -100 etc)

From the BBC: Friday, 19 April, 2002, 07:25 GMT 08:25 UK Grant not keen on 'Bridget' sequel Grant doubts he will team up with 'Bridget' co-stars Hugh Grant has said he doubts there will ever be a sequel to hit UK movie Bridget Jones's Diary. The actor was speaking at a press conference of his latest film About A Boy, where he stars as an irresponsible adult who befriends a young boy. Bridget Jones was a huge worldwide hit, taking more than �40m in the UK alone and earned leading lady Ren�e Zellweger an Oscar nomination. Bridget Jones author Helen Fielding's follow-up novel, Edge of Reason, has already been the subject of sequel rumours. But Grant, who starred as the devious Daniel Cleaver in the movie, said he "would not put money" on a sequel being made. He said: "The people who are keen to make the sequel are Working Title (Bridget Jones's producers) because they see dollar signs flashing in front of them. "I'm a little bit equivocal to tell you the whole truth. I don't feel particularly keen. "I don't want to let everyone else down if they want to do it. Having said that I don't think Ren�e is that keen to be fat again." In his new film, About A Boy, Grant teams up with directing brothers Chris and Paul Weitz, the duo behind the hit comedy American Pie. Rachel Weisz, Toni Collette and Victoria Smurfit co-star in the movie which is based on Nick Hornby's best-selling novel. The film is released in the UK on 26 April and in the US on 17 May. But Grant is not happy with the movie's trailer on TV across the Atlantic. He is to tell BBC Radio 4's Back Row programme on Saturday that the movie's producers are trying to push a romantic element in the movie, instead of the main storyline about his relationship with the boy. "They're trying to make it like Notting Hill. I don't know if they are right. I think in marketing terms they are trying to sell the film down the river slightly. "They make it look like every other American movie, instead of allowing it to be a bit different." Grant said he was shocked by the attitude of some UK screenwriters who make the transition from TV to the big screen. He told the radio programme: "There are some who know what they are doing, but there are others who have an extraordinary kind of arrogance. They come out of television and they think they can do this. "It is a craft and needs to be learnt and learnt the hard way." The Four Weddings and a Funeral star was also scathing about the handout of National Lottery money to UK film production. "If you fund more productions, you don't get more good films, you get more bad ones. "I would have invested all that money into the film industry, the right kind of film school or screen writing academy. "People who actually learn to write for the big screen and not just television. It's not the same thing at all." The interview with Hugh Grant is on Back Row, BBC Radio 4 on Saturday at 1730 BST

C'mon Hughie..."we" need the money.

The Grunt is not keen on the sequel because his character is hardly in it!

I think in marketing terms they are trying to sell the film down the river slightly. "They make it look like every other American movie, instead of allowing it to be a bit different." HG has learned a thing or two. C'mon Hughie..."we" need the money. Don't worry, Evelyn, he has his friends looking out for him. ;-)

Thanks, Mari, for posting the Gnat's comments. I'm sure they will stir things up as they get republished everywhere. While I don't take anything he says seriously as a rule (the man has more canned quips than...), he has made some very critical comments about how AAB is being promoted in the US which are, unfortunately, true. Those marketing types are notorious for putting together misleading trailers, TV spots and ad campaigns. Whether he deigns to appear in the sequel will likely have more to do with the role (size and significance) than anything else. I find it interesting that he's commenting on RZ, but I'd put that in the "trained by the SAS" category.

Obviousy the gnat is down playing the sequel because he identified so well with Daniel Cleaver, and he would rather be remembered as the guy that got the girl. This is just more dirty politics. I've read AAB, and I thought what a pathetic twerp the character was. Mind you I had in mind how ODB would play it, and I could not see a career advancement there. So was glad to hear the gnat took it Has the final kitchen scene in the sequel been discussed before? That's what I'm hanging out for. (or does this belong to droolfic :])

(Anna), I've read AAB, and I thought what a pathetic twerp the character was. Mind you I had in mind how ODB would play it, and I could not see a career advancement there. So was glad to hear the gnat took it ROTFLOL!

I wonder about HG not being 'keen' to be DC again when he seemed so happy to be the bad guy when BJD was released. Maybe he just wants his role expanded in the sequel? We've heard that they're working on a script so I'm still optimistic about seeing EoR. As for AAB, it has received very little press coverage here. I have never seen the trailer on TV. And when Hughie shows up to publicize it, all the press wants to do is talk about LizH. I saw him at the new Sandra Bullock premiere on TV and I think he's about ready to slug someone. Meanwhile, the Earnest trailer is getting lots of showings on my TV!

I will go back to lurkdom after this but what do I (we?) want to see in EoR? Yes Mr Darcy in the kitchen sans PJs. Will that happen? Subject to seeing Hope Springs (and this is the big but) how are the scenes handled ? ODB in latest bucket vogue pic looks slim but is he toned? Do we care? Just show us the dimples. Do we have a vote for dimples?

but what do I (we?) want to see in EoR? Yes Mr Darcy in the kitchen sans PJs. He wouldn't do it, IMO. Do we have a vote for dimples? It's a thumbs up. ;-)

(Bryonny) As for AAB, it has received very little press coverage here. It doesn't open in the US/Canada until May 17 (same day as TIOBE in NY/LA) but should be a fairly wide release. I am seeing commercials for it on TV already, plus it's in every magazine. (AnnaS) but what do I (we?) want to see in EoR? No need to go back to lurkdom, but just keep in mind there is no collective we in this place. Many of we have differing opinions and views. :-)

As to the EoR-You have my vote for dimples,Mr.Darcy in the kitchen sans PJs, and of course his fight with Bridget wearing only a towel.

That towel scene alone is what keeps me going. ;-D HF was pleased to acknowledge it when she signed that week's Telegraph column for me. But, if you've read New Cardiff, there's a towel scene in it too.

(Karen)I was not going to read New Cardiff until after I saw HS-however, now that I know there is a towel scene-I'll go out and buy it NOW! I think I read that part in the EoR a thousand times. Thanks, everyone, for the warm welcomes!!!It's great to finally be here.

Sounds like sour grapes from HG. And rather disloyal to Working Title who have provide him with all his success and a terrific publicity machine. To be honest, do we really, really need him in TEOR? (Especially if it's an Andrew Davies script with no tweaking by Richard Curtis) Why can't RZ and CF carry it, backed up, very ably by Jim broadbent and Gemma Jones, and also "the friends" who were rather wasted in BJD. Sally Phillips and James Callis are excellent comedy actors and could easily fill any void left by HG. But for some reason HG is regarded as having the Midas touch (although he's had several movies that have tanked) and he's a bona fide glam movie star! :-( Earlier this week, the Daily Mail carried an article on RZ and how thin she is now (I actually agree, she *is* too thin). The article stated that RZ would be starring opposite HG in TEOR. No mention of CF. I can't think of any other example where the real romantic lead is ignored! Who cared about Wickham? :-) It will be v. interesting to see how AOB fares at the Box office in the UK. I can't see a major rush, but Hughie's been getting non-stop publicity for the last couple of weeks so I could be wrong!

(bethan)I was disappointed when I read that a part was being created in EoR for HG. I don't have a problem with him, but I would have liked to see CF and RZ carry this off. The DC part in the book is so small, I am surprised that they are going to expand something that isn't there for the film-just to have HG around.

BTW HG was paid �7.5million for BJD. Or maybe it was dollars. Either way, he was way ahead of his co-stars. Plus a percentage of the profits. I'm not quite sure what he's complaining about!

(Bethan)(Especially if it's an Andrew Davies script with no tweaking by Richard Curtis) I have just seen the Trollope thing on TV scripted by Andrew Davies...He doesn't always have the midas touch either; more a hit 'n miss. I'll put my money on Richard Curtis; he has more hits. And HG has more starring hits than ODB ...but who wants to be objective. Hey...Drool is fantasy-land;-) I am surprised that they are going to expand something that isn't there for the film-just to have HG around. $$$$$$$$$

I was disappointed when I read that a part was being created in EoR for HG (linda) The problem with creating a large (presumably) part for HG, is that it will distort the story-line, and TEOR could end up being just a retread of BJD.

Closed tags, sorry

The problem with creating a large (presumably) part for HG, is that it will distort the story-line, and TEOR could end up being just a retread of BJD I agree. Hopefully that won't happen. I loved BJD-book and film, but I think the EoR is excellent-I hope the script won't disappoint.

TEOR could end up being just a retread of BJD. Most sequels are. But I would like to see ODB get this. The $$ is bound to be good. And hey, I don't see anything better in the "Trans-Siberian pipeline".

TEOR has the best chance if they stick to the book. I saw an article about how hard it is to make room for a man after you have become a successful career woman with a life full of interests and friends. The movie can focus on that and be just as relevant as BJD was for addressing "Why are there so many unmarried women in their 30's?"

Wonder who that other guy is? No name is given. The second glimpse of I Saw You (Tuesday, ITV), though, was rather good, mainly because of Fay Ripley, who is probably the best romantic light comedienne on the box at the moment...and also because of a script that I found witheringly funny....Her co-star, Paul Rhys, isn�t quite so winning. Principally because he seems to be constantly doing an imitation of Hugh Grant whispering. Indeed, his character has Hugh Grant written all over him. Now I come to think of it, the whole thing�s not unlike Bridget Jones, and the other romantic-interest bloke bears more than a passing resemblance to Mr Darcy. I wonder if they did it on purpose? I wonder if they�ve noticed?

The "other guy" in I Saw You is played by Alexander Armstrong, and does not IMO "bear a passing resemblance to Mr Darcy", except inasmuch as he is rich and from a very posh background. In fact he's a lord. Neither does the series bear much resemblance to BJD - its heroine is a struggling mum in a dismal relationship with Paul Rhys's optician (who is not very much like HG). Fay Ripley meets her lord at a wedding where she was singing in the band, and gets relentlessly pursued by him, while Paul Rhys starts dating his dentist. No singletons, not much angsting from the heroine, no deliberate slimeball. The only thing I agree with the reviewer on is that Fay Ripley is quite good and makes the show worth watching. But then I've only seen one episode...

Thanks, Mark. Am looking around for pics of this guy but only one that's in profile. (Apparently was in The Birthday Girl too.) However, the series sounds interesting. Perhaps if it gets as popular as Cold Feet, we'll get it here. Huge's comments have been printed in the Sun and picked up by Ananova now. So we should expect to hear something from the folks at Working Title soon. ;-D

Huge's comments won't exactly please Working Title! Given that Daniel Cleaver barely features in TEOR, and that there's an established cast, I wonder if HG has the power to scuttle the whole project (ie it's not my party, so I'm not playing, and no-one else is either)?

HG also mentioned that he thought RZ would not want to do the TEoR because of the weight gain. I thought that was a little presumptive on his part. I read that she would consider the role if she didn't have to pack on as many pounds, but overall she was in favor of doing it. I'm furious that he probably read the same article, and decided to comment as though it's already been decided.

Huge is casting grave doubts on TEOR. :-( I heard the tail end of a radio interview with him yesterday (promoting AOB). Am paraphrasing. The interviewer asked him about a sequel to BJD, and Huge said that he didn't think it would happen. He said he was reluctant to reprise the role of Daniel Cleaver as there was nothing to be regained by re-visiting it - it was like putting back on a wet swimsuit. The interviewer (male) said that it was a pity because HG and RZ made a great couple and added that it wouldn't matter for Hugh because he must have lots more irons in the fire. Huge said "Yes, absolutely". Huge is getting rave reviews for AOB, and must be even more bankable now. Unfortunately it seems as though TEOR can't be made without him. Makes me fume though. If AOB was tailor-made for HG, them TEOR was tailor-made for CF. I would have thought that the reaction to BJD hould have given CF some credibility as a leading man!!

From deja.com From UPI Hollywood Digest By Pat Nason UPI Hollywood Reporter From the Life & Mind Desk Published 4/23/2002 4:09 PM THAT'S ONE WAY TO HANDLE IT Colin Firth -- who starred with Ren�e Zellweger and Hugh Grant in "Bridget Jones's Diary" -- is actually a character in novelist Helen Fielding's Bridget Jones sequel, "The Edge of Reason," prompting the question: Who will play Firth in the movie version? First things first, though. Firth isn't sure there will be an "Edge of Reason" movie. "I can't really answer that question informatively," he told United Press International. "I don't know. As far as I'm concerned it's all rumor." Firth said there had been talk of a movie, but it has quieted down. "I just think it's probably a very difficult thing to mount," he said, "three actors who have to be available at the same time and a script that would have to be good enough." But if there were a movie, who would play the character of Colin Firth? "He won't be there," said Firth. "He'll become George Clooney or something." Bridget becomes a journalist in "The Edge of Reason" and interviews Firth. Director Sharon Maguire -- who had been talked about as a possible director for the project -- reportedly said Firth would play himself, as well as reprise his role as Mark Darcy from "Bridget Jones's Diary."

The interviewer (male) said that it was a pity because HG and RZ made a great couple *snort* From the only person in England not to have seen the movie. ;-D Interesting item, Bethan. Must have been from the press junket. Colin's just doing a little dance, as nothing's been signed and sealed. Typical. But if there were a movie, who would play the character of Colin Firth? "He won't be there," said Firth. "He'll become George Clooney or something." Nonnegotiable contract point? ;-D Although I'd bet WT would love to do the in-joke, they are notorious for having surprise cameos, and Clooney would be a good one to do the interview.

I'm going to think positive and hope that TEoR will be a go. I don't quite understand the reasoning that it can't be made with out HG. The book was certainly a great read without his character. Has anyone given any thought to who might play Rebecca if this project gets off the ground? Would love to hear some ideas.

I'm thinking positive too...despite the negative vibes. As Karen says...nothing's signed and sealed yet. I seem to remember similar negative vibes about BJD...at one point it was all off, then there was the fuss about casting BJ, the script wasn't up to scratch, HG to play MD etc!

HG playing MD? I didn't hear that, and thank goodness it didn't happen that way.As far as HG, I just heard him say,two days ago, that he would like to do just one or two more films then write his book, have children, etc. Now he has several things in the fire? I think all of his negative talk about TEoR is due to the fact that he knows the book was all about BJ and MD, and even if they expand his part-it's not about HIM!

WT would love to do the in-joke, they are notorious for having surprise cameos, and Clooney would be a good one to do the interview. That might be Colin's way of hinting at whom he would like. I agree, Karen, it would work for me.BTW, who is WT? I think the script is in the making, we should relax. ;-)

Working Title. Remember how they had Alec Baldwin in NH? They like cameos (all the authors at the launch party).

(Bethan) I just think it's probably a very difficult thing to mount," he said Can't be harder than a greyhound, which we here at Spring have seen! :-) Thanks to everyone who has reported news--I am beginning to relax a little but am still anxious for 3 talk shows, a radio interview and more articles than I can read in a day.

Have just posted over at Odds and Ends (at last!! :-)) re bad reviews for AOB and Huge. May cause Huge to have a rethink on the BJD sequel, if he is genuinely having doubts. I'd be surprised if AOB performs as well as BJD (�40million in the UK takes some beating) and if it falls well short, then a reprise of Daniel Cleaver (for a huge sum of money) may seem an attractive option. Certainly Working Title would prefer an already successful formula.

Following Mari's wily assessment of one of the early sequel rumours at #743, I am convinced that every mention of this film is being organised by HG, specifically to suggest that he is essential to the winning BJD formula. My guess is that, true to the book, DC is largely/totally ignored in the first screenplay draft (which HG probably hasn't even received). Hence all he wants to do is shout his name, express his "reluctance" to appear again on the assumption that in itself that will make producers/writers(/public) think he's crucial. Of course in the process he's jeopardising all the chances for the sequel being made at all. He's done his research though - having read that Renee was reluctant to move to London and put on weight again, he is using a llittle bit of public info to justify his posturing. I admire the way he works (and even his work), but I do urge everyone to see how manipulative this is - IMHO. This includies the potential makers of EOR - you do not need the Gnat!

While I hadn't taken these comments to their logical conclusion, it had occurred to me that Andrew Davies' script would be fairly faithful to the book. He is an adapter of novels. He may add a bit of spice here and there, but he hasn't created his own storylines in the past.

Good point, Mark. EOR can very well be the two girls one guy script. But I'm afraid Colin is not seen as someone that could carry a whole movie, yet. We will have to see if the release of Hope Springs, (Karen firmly believes Colin is the main character ;-), and if that film gives him the push to get the green-light for EOR to be made without HG. EOR could be Renee, Colin and Julia R. With JR it would get made. Just putting these thoughts out in the Universe. ;-)

(Moon)But I'm afraid Colin is not seen as someone that could carry a whole movie, yet. Moon, I admire your courage for saying this on this board;-) Don't you think WT knows that? Hey, they aren't fools. UK has not been kind to any film that ODB has starred in so far. Remember four in a row have tanked. I agree with Mark, I admire HG's acting (not the persona) and his willingness to promote; moreover, in the US he and RZ *made* BJD. I think our British friends think that ODB is as popular in the US as on this board. Wrong-o. EOR needs a third actor ( A or strong B) to make it a go; male or female. Bridget and her friends : DOA. She's pretty savy, I don't think she would do it with just Colin.

Karen,can't we do an e-mail/letter/anything campaign to WT on this issue? I really think Mark's take on this is dead on concerning HG. HG also knows that Colin got excellent reviews from BJD. I think he may have been a little more than surprised by that-especially with the various nominations that Colin received.

Re Mark's comments about HG - I agree absolutely. We must remember that HG is a seriously bright man. He knows exactly what he is about. However I agree with all the other analyses, Colin could not carry a film stateside. It seems that you need starring names to make a film a go there. That is not always the case here but they are not going to make a film about the very British Bridget Jones unless you lot over there like it. (What is the emoticon for someone grinding their teeth while smiling sweetly?).

I love the way the showbiz publicity machine works. For a story that apparently carries a serious question mark of making it to the big screen - the press (general as well as trade) on both sides of the Pond do not seem to have any problem at all dedicating many many column inches to the story - peppered with direct quotes from apparently reluctant lead actors too! LOL.

(Moon) Karen firmly believes Colin is the main character ;-) She's not the only one. (Mark) I do urge everyone to see how manipulative this is - IMHO. This includies the potential makers of EOR - you do not need the Gnat! I agree, however, surely WT knows how the game is played--include the Gnat in a cameo role (i.e., pay him a princely sum for a day's work), then publicize him as the star to get bums in seats. Is done all the time. (Evelyn) UK has not been kind to any film that ODB has starred in so far. Remember four in a row have tanked. Yes, but in all fairness, said films ranged in quality from average (MLSF and RV--and he really wasn't the star of that one, it was JA's pic) to below average (SLOW) to celluloid toilet paper (L). C'mon.

No mention of sequel, but it appears Sharon has a full plate: "Bridget Jones's Diary" helmer Sharon Maguire has come aboard to develop and direct the English-language remake of the German film "Alles Bob!" ("Everything Bob!") for Ridley Scott and Tony Scott's Scott Free Prods. There is no start date for the project, although it is on the fast track. "Bob!" is a modern comedy that follows the adventures of Bob, a philanderer who is about to give up his bachelor life to marry a beautiful, wealthy and well-connected woman whom he doesn't truly love. When he meets and unexpectedly falls in love with an older woman with three children, he begins to realize that true love may be more important than money. Helkon released the Otto Alexander Jahrreiss directed film in Germany to rave reviews and tepid boxoffice during summer 1999. Intermedia acquired U.S. remake rights more than a year ago for Scott Free. (HR 2/15/01) Rob Perez wrote most recent draft of the English-language version for Scott Free, which has a second-look deal with Intermedia. Scott Free's first-look deal is with Bruckheimer Films. Giannina Facio, who brought the project to Scott Free, will produce the project with the company. Maguire is repped by ICM. She began her career as a writer and then became a documentary filmmaker. She segued into commercial directing before making her feature directorial debut on "Bridget." Maguire is currently developing the romantic comedy feature "Mail" for U.K. production company Archer Street and FilmFour.

Empire mentions the sequel.:-( From Bridget To Bob 29/04/2002 Although Hugh Grant may have poured cold water on the prospect of there being a Bridget Jones's Diary sequel (read our interview with him here), director Sharon Maguire seems quite happy to keep herself busy with all manner of new projects. This morning, she's been announced as the director of a new romantic comedy, which - the Hollywood Reporter adds - will be produced by Ridley and Tony Scott's production company Free Prods. Bob! is a remake of the successful German film Alles Bob, in which a philanderer's cunning plan to swap batchelorhood for a marriage with a rich woman he doesn't love, comes undone when he meets a single mum that he does. It's the latest in a number of projects that the English director has recently signed for, including an all-British teaming with Oscar-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes for the film adaptation of the Anthony Trollope novel Eustace Diamonds.

Hmm, what with Sharon, Huge and Rene being so much in demand for new projects after the success of BJD, it's difficult to see TEOR taking off. :-( Unless these other projects are longer term. Will Andrew Davies' script be wasted? Come on, Colin, sign up for something, please! Even one project would suffice! Doesn't Trollope's "Eustace Diamonds" feature a handsome barrister (the heroine's brother)?

Am answering my own question! It does...the handsome barrister (also a member of Parliament) is effectively the hero of the novel. If Sharon is looking for someone to play a handsome lawyer in a period drama, surely someone will spring to mind! (But I still hope we'll get more of MD!)

Report in today's Daily Telegraph says that RZ has agreed to do the BJD sequel. The source is her body double Melinda Whiting who says that she has been asked to stand in again for Rene in the sequel which starts shooting at the end of this year

Hurrah! Oh Holy Bliss! (with caution)

Didn't I tell everyone to relax. :-)

*happy dance*

Good news! And Renee will be slimmed down for this role?

From The Telegraph site: Zellweger in Bridget Jones II THE Hollywood actress Renee Zellweger is to revive her starring role in Bridget Jones's Dairy to film the Helen Fielding sequel Edge of Reason at the end of the year. A follow-up had been in doubt because Zellweger was reluctant to put on weight again for the role. But Melinda Whiting, her body-double in the film, said she had been asked to appear in the sequel. 03-May-2002 So, I'm thinking if Ms. Whiting is the body double from BJD, RZ will be putting on at least a few pounds, if not as many as before.

The Baftas evidently had some kind of glossy program. If you go here, there are a few little piece about BJD. I've only skimmed through, but BJD is either mentioned or the topic of: Being Bridget Jones, Keeping Up with the Joneses, and Taking Things Literary. Could be others. Can't copy and paste from a Flash setup here, so you'll have to read there: http://www.bafta.org/Brochure/BAFTA2002/index.htm

RZ will be putting on at least a few pounds, if not as many as before I saw a picture of RZ in the NY Post today that was taken yesterday at a 3K race for charity and she looks stick thin. I think if she turned totally sideways she'd disappear while we looked right at her. If she doesn't gain weight easily, she might want to start eating now to be the proper weight for filming.

I think she's said that she is willing to put on weight, just not as much as before. I agree RZ looks stick thin.

Comparing AAB with BJD... Huge's AAB has apparently now taken �7.6million at the Box Office after about 12 days. At the same point, BJD was somewhere between �15 million and �22million, and still going strong. I don't see AAB competing with this, despite a major publicity push.

I don't see AAB competing with this, despite a major publicity push. Plus, the previews are awful. Not enticing in the least.

The language seems a tad too inflammatory to me, but it would be true about their accepting the script. Here's the latest courtesy of Silvie: Bridget Jones sequel in jeopardy? Colin Firth has revealed that he's concerned about the dramatic weightloss of his 'Bridget Jones' co-star Ren�e Zellweger. Speaking to Now magazine, the housewives' favourite said: "A few extra pounds would suit her fantastically. I thought she looked gorgeous as Bridget. She got to a size 12 and looked lovely. She doesn't need to worry about her weight." However, while there are plans to follow-up Bridget Jones's Diary with a sequel based on Helen Fielding's second book, Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason, Colin warned that the film mightn't actually happen, if Ren�e decides she doesn't want to put the weight back on to play the heroine of the piece. "[The film] will be a tricky beast to bring into being," Colin warned. "You're going to have to find the three actors available at the same time - Ren�e, Hugh Grant and myself - who disposed to doing a sequel. It'll be a possibility if the quality of the script is exceptional, otherwise you fall into sequel hell. And it will only be possible if Ren�e accepts that she needs to get back to how her figure looked." However, Ren�e says she isn't willing to get dumpy for the sequel, stating recently: "There is no way I'm going to put all that weight on again. No way - I hated it! They're not going to make me do it - I refuse!"

Ooops, forgot the link: http://uk.news.yahoo.com/020516/242/cz3fw.html

OMG. She really does look awfully thin in recent pics. "A few extra pounds would suit her fantastically. I thought she looked gorgeous as Bridget. She got to a size 12 and looked lovely. She doesn't need to worry about her weight." My DH said the same thing!Makes me feel good.I am a size 12!!!! I knew he liked women with curves. (Despite the tiny wife). Desperately hope there will be a sequal but more concerned about her healh and distorted body imaage.

I will think positive, I will think positive... When I saw pictures of RZ at the BJD premieres she had already lost the weight. I think if she gains as little as 10-15lbs it will make a big difference because she is so thin. Obviously she doesn't have a problem taking it off. I thought I read recently, that Andrew Davies said that he would do the script without all the emphasis on the weight because of RZ's reluctance to gain. I am not going to fret about TEoR this week. It has been too glorious a week to ruin.

Meanwhile, I was particularly struck by how thin ODB himself looked in the latest pictures posted. And I think I recall reading someone's earlier comment that he was even thinner (and more good looking) in person.

(CF) "A few extra pounds would suit her fantastically. I thought she looked gorgeous as Bridget. She got to a size 12 and looked lovely. She doesn't need to worry about her weight." I remember reading an old interview of his where he mentioned he didn't prefer stick women. Not sure, though, if RZ would appreciate him stating what size she got to unless she said it herself or it were published somewhere.

Yes, the dress size was printed numerous times last year. Of course, to a Hollywood stick insect, a size 12 would be the height of obesity. Didn't Lisa's story of BJ in LA have it in the Plus Size section of the store? ;-D

This was listed on Movie.go.com--upcoming movies This sequel to Bridget Jones's Release Date 2003 Diary picks up four weeks after the end of the first film, when Bridget is trying to cope with living with another person and the arrival on the scene of Rebecca, a beautiful man-hunter. Starring Hugh Grant, Ren�e Zellweger, Colin Firth Studio TBD

Here we go again.

I wish someone would tell CF,HG, and RZ about this

when Bridget is trying to cope with living with another person I hope that person isn`t Daniel ;)

Nah--you remember. The opening of EOR she is with MD.