(Caribou)but I must admit yes, it is indeed Griet's movie. It was Griet's story afterall, but is no story without Vermeer. He is an enigmatic presence in the book and in the film, or so it seems. I'll take it! It sounds lovely from the *early report from the field* and I'm so very grateful!

Dame Caribou you do indeed Rock. What a great and interesting report. Can't wait to see this, even though its Griet's story. I'd tell a story too if I was painted by CF oh excuse me, Vermeer. Great job, very enjoyable, and thanks too to your husband. He's very special. Oscar. That would do it.

From Variety's report on Telluride: As far as fresh revelations were concerned, certainly nothing could match the stunning emergence of 18-year-old Scarlett Johansson as a major actress in two of the best new pictures world premiered here, Sofia Coppola's "Lost In Translation" and Peter Webber's "Girl With a Pearl Earring." Luminous, bracingly self-possessed and with either an intuitive or a very mature understanding of the less-is-more nature of screen acting, Johansson now seems poised for a major career, although the hope among her ardent new admirers here is that she won't now succumb to the big buck offers that will inevitably come her way and start making silly movies.

A rave review for the film and SJ from Variety! But not much on CF . . . By TODD MCCARTHY "Girl With A Pearl Earring" is an intelligent, visually ravishing adaptation of Tracy Chevalier's best-selling novel about the Dutch master Vermeer and the model for one of his most famous paintings. With concision and well-chosen detail, Peter Webber's exceedingly accomplished first feature beautifully evokes the world the artist inhabited 340 years ago while deftly and discreetly delineating the personal intrigue within his teeming household. With its literary pedigree, artsy period backdrop, refined Euro air and wondrous central performance by emerging star Scarlett Johansson, who is receiving concurrent raves for her work in "Lost in Translation," pic has all the ingredients to become an international specialized circuit hit. Little is known about Johannes Vermeer, who lived his entire life (1632-75) in the city of Delft, and certainly nothing of the young woman who modeled for the celebrated portrait he created in about 1665. This gave U.S.-born, British-based novelist Chevalier considerable latitude in fashioning her fictional story of a teenager whose destitute Calvinist parents place her as a maid in the home of the Catholic Vermeer, a meticulous, slow-working artist who also works as an art dealer and whose home overflows with innumerable children, an overwrought wife and a queen bee-like mother-in-law. Even before Griet (Johansson) arrives to take up her duties, one is struck by the unusual nature of the girl. Porcelain-skinned, with largish nose and lips and wide-set eyes, she seems keenly observant and self-possessed, with an intelligence and integrity that trump her illiteracy and low station. The prevailing hallmark of Johansson's superb performance, which could be considered worthy of great silent film acting, is that her Griet is always holding something in reserve, an innate intelligence and sense of mystery that eventually intrigue Vermeer and severely threaten the latter's wife. Courtesy of Ben van Os' vibrant production design, which is intersected by canals and is populated as much with livestock as it is with humanity, the thriving mercantilist Holland of the time jumps to life as Griet arrives for work. Under the thumb of fleshy housekeeper Tanneke (Joanna Scanlan) and watched with close suspicion by Vermeer's neurotic wife Catharina (Essie Davis) and the latter's stern mother Maria Thins (Judy Parfitt), Griet develops a fascination with the one room in the cramped house that is off-limits to the family in general, Vermeer's spare, light-drenched studio. While fulfilling active public and family roles, Vermeer (Colin Firth) puts his art first, often seeming remote and insisting upon privacy to work at his own deliberate pace despite domestic demands and pressure from his wealthy patron, Van Ruijven (Tom Wilkinson). Soon, however, he notices a nascent sensitivity in Griet to such matters as light, paint materials and composition, which earns her access to the privileged studio; before long, the artist shows her his new acquisition, a camera obscura, which he admits helps him with his work, and invites her to help him grind and mix his paints. In such a tight household, Griet's activities do not go unnoticed, and her position there is soon tenuous. The object of mean pranks by one of the painter's daughters, Griet is politely courted by the nearby butcher's son (the impossibly handsome Cillian Murphy, who looks like he just stepped out of a Zeffirelli film), just as she is lusted after by the boorish Van Ruijven, who makes a secret deal with Vermeer that looks to bode ill for Griet. Amidst all these swirling emotions and intrigues, a highly delicate central drama emerges: While producing a group picture for Van Ruijven, Vermeer embarks upon the secret, simultaneous project, a portrait of Griet. Posing for him in a manner that almost seems illicit, the film builds to sensual highlights that consist of a resistant Griet finally consenting to removing her white cap to reveal her resplendent hair, and Vermeer piercing her ear so she can wear the earring he insists is necessary to complete the painting. When Catharina discovers that the servant girl has been wearing her earrings and demands to see the picture, she hysterically calls it obscene and tries to rip it to shreds. Griet's fate hangs in the balance, but her capacity for survival proves resilient in a mixed-mood conclusion that is in proportion to the careful balance achieved throughout the picture. Script by Olivia Hetreed jettisons the book's first-person p.o.v., probably wisely in that the approach preserves Griet's mysteriousness, but is quite faithful in tone and spirit. A former editor and documaker, Webber maintains an admirably restrained hold on the material while still keeping the action lively and intriguing. Drama tips into too-overt melodrama on a couple of occasions, however, notably in Van Ruijven's one-dimensional lechery and Catharina's overweening jealousy. Arching over everything is the film's look, which in cinematographer Eduardo Serra's exceptionally skilled hands is that of a Vermeer painting from beginning to end. The jumbled textures and colors of the home's family quarters are set off by the austere loveliness of the artist's soft-hued studio, which was the setting of so many of his works. Hugely evocative, the studied approach of approximating the Vermeer look, with light slanting in from the side, never feels stilted or fussy, and an emotionally climactic zoom in on Griet striking her pose for the picture, earring finally in place, is breathtaking. While physically and dramatically credible, Firth is reserved as the guarded artist. Davis as his wife conveys the brittleness of a woman living permanently near the breaking point, and Parfitt has her moments as the matriarch who quietly sympathizes with her son-in-law more than with her daughter. In a film of outstanding craft contributions, noteworthy are Dien van Straalen's costumes and, particularly, Alexandre Desplat's supple, beautifully nuanced score.

(Moon)The ladies that are going to Vancouver, if you get a chance please ask Weber why he omitted it? Oh, don't be too hard on him. He said they were worried about the response to the omissions. Watch it first and see if in the end you are still disappointed. Besides, don't lose sight of the fact: Toronto is the chance to question Colin. Must keep priorities in mind! (BarbS)(Caribou-Hemingway)Then the rich, warm colors began to flow past me and haunting melody began to flow into me. LOL! Thanks for all the kind words. (BeeDee)You have had me on a Rocky Mountain High! Me too! It's not going to be a pretty sight when I finally come down. I am so thankful to be able to share and express all this. It's all in there and this is really helping to work it out of my system so I can go back to eating and sleeping. (Mari)From this day forward, you are Her Rocky Mountain Highness! :-) LOL! I've learned from WAGW that if I get my wish and we all get to attend a film fest in NM, your invitation must read: HRMH Caribou invites you....:-) After Griet, does Vermeer have the largest part? Weeeellll, that depends on what your definition of largest is.;-) Most words, no. Most time on screen, no. Most vital to the story, definitely. His performance is to critical to the story to be overlooked. Or is it pretty well divided among all the supporting characters? I shudder to lump him into the supporting category--that belongs soundly to TW. If he's not the leading man, who is? (Karen)I can't believe that you managed to ask all those questions, including the one about the screener (didn't I put a winkie next to that??? maybe not) Did you have them written on the palm of your hand? ;-D Me either!!! I would have slept a lot easier at night if you pros had been on the job. Didn't think of the palm of my hand, but everywhere else. I studied hard --this exam was a one shot deal, pass or fail!:-) They did look at me awful funny when I asked about the screener tape: "the what?"--wish I'd seen the winkie.:-) (Me)It caused the audience to gasp, literally gasp, in places. A delight from beginning to end. This could really go all the way. I can�t even begin to guess how many Oscar nominations it will receive. It�s got Oscar written all over it. (Karen)Am sniffling here. Never thought I'd live to see the day... I'm like PW, I've seen one I like I just have to get everyone else to agree with me. I really think it's on a par with TEP and SIL and that if it doesn't win it will be money or politics, not merit. (Karen)Perhaps Best Supporting Actor would be the category?? Shhh! Don't even say it. Not the buzz we are going for now. He's the leading man all the way and the best one there will be this year. (BeeDee)It was Griet's story afterall, but is no story without Vermeer. He is an enigmatic presence in the book and in the film Right! I only heard Scarlett's name when PW and crew mentioned it but I heard Colin's several times--not counting how often I mentioned it.:-) And now, alas and alack, it's off to bed, perchance to sleep, perchance to dream.

Sweet dreams, Caribou - thats all it takes. Thanks for the reports and comments. Will take a while for 'normal' life to return, and that's just for me reading your adventure.:)

Caribou - very cool that you got to see it twice, thanks so much for the detailed reports!

Caribou, what a wonderful report and so vivid! When you wrote of the cheering people on your run to the theater, I had Bridget and the old man in front of the appartment on my mind (though I'm sure you knew how to dress to the occassion ;-)) I can only second all the comments from fellow droolers. Can't wait to see this one. Thank you so much for sharing.

(Caribou), don't lose sight of the fact: Toronto is the chance to question Colin. Must keep priorities in mind! True. I have one for Colin: You have stated in an interview that you thought Scarlett J would end up becoming a director, why? (Variety), While physically and dramatically credible, Firth is reserved as the guarded artist. Why reserved? Do you agree, Caribou? Thanks, for the review, Mari. Happy days are here again! Looks like Oscar and definitely Golden Globe. Just think of all the interviews and photo shots. :-D

Thanks for the review, Mari. True, not much about Colin but a rave for the film. For Caribou: Do you remember how the opening credits ran? Colin and Scarlett's name up at the same time? One first? Before the Title???

(Karen)Perhaps Best Supporting Actor would be the category?? Those are always his best roles. Am enormously proud of him too...he doesn't hog the screen from the other actors, but supports their efforts. No wonder directors and actors admire him; he's a team player. I wouldn't ask the veggie question in Toronto either...it's PW's version of the book, as he said; why go into the 'piss and m.' mode. This is his first film and apparently hit pay dirt. Love the reviews, Mari. Am thrilled that Colin is in a quality film that is getting such reviews. Must be every actor's dream.

Sorry about missing that closing italics. It looks like I went to bed 16 lines too late. (Annette)When you wrote of the cheering people on your run to the theater, I had Bridget and the old man in front of the appartment on my mind (though I'm sure you knew how to dress to the occassion ;-)) hee hee Good luck you crazy girl! And that wasn't my only Bridget moment. I kept thinking Bridget goes to Telluride.:-) Am hard-hitting journalist on assignment ruthlessly pursuing truth, justice and the British way!:-) (Variety), While physically and dramatically credible, Firth is reserved as the guarded artist. (Moon)Why reserved? Do you agree, Caribou? I don't quite understand what Todd McCarthy means by that. Vermeer is definitely reserved, a little shy and uncertain when the painting has to actually be seen by others (so cute and endearing and portrayed with the slightest movement of face or stance as only Colin can do to perfection). But, that was Vermeer not Colin. His acting was superb, perfectly nuanced and complimentary to SJ. He begs with his eyes: Please, oh please, understand and see what I see. Tell me I'm not alone in the world.

Please, oh please, understand and see what I see. Tell me I'm not alone in the world. OK, I'm melting.

From THR about Telluride (only parts with GWAPE): Telluride fest at turning point By Chris Gardner This year, however, marked a "passing of the torch," organizers said. An unprecedented number of films were the work of first-time helmers. Of the 20 premiering works, 10 came from debut directors, a sign that the older-skewing festival may be welcoming a new generation of filmmakers and film fans. [...] Wherever its future leads, a number of fledgling filmmakers appreciated the welcome they got at Telluride 2003. "There are periods in filmmaking when people may think it's all over or that it's a dying art," said Peter Webber, director of Lions Gate Films' "Girl With a Pearl Earring," starring Scarlett Johansson and Colin Firth. "Then you realize there are new voices coming out, and it feels like that is being celebrated here and it's very nice." Webber was part of a strong presence at Telluride from indie outfit Lions Gate. The company was represented by two world premieres: Webber's "Pearl Earring" and Billy Ray's "Shattered Glass," starring Hayden Christensen and Peter Sarsgaard. It also screened Lars von Trier's "Dogville," starring Nicole Kidman, which it acquired at Cannes. [...] "We're thrilled with the receptions to our films," Lions Gates' Tom Ortenberg said. "For our world premieres, I could not have dreamed of a better reaction to those two movies."

After that Variety report, I'm sure the "must see" film at The Toronto FF will be GWAPE. It will be such a happening! If I were single I would get my little a.. of to Toronto. Hint Hint!! Repeat the mantra: Toronto, Toronto, Toronto!!!

Caribou: May I add my thanks for your vivid report on the festival and the film. I could see those Aspens twinkling in the wind! Looks like a winner for all concerned. Visually it must be something to see. This is going to be some Oscar season!

(Karen)Do you remember how the opening credits ran? Colin and Scarlett's name up at the same time? One first? Before the Title??? Ah ha! A surprise question! I didn't know this would be on the quiz. Colin's name was first and alone. They ran most if not all of the major names before the title and then it took up the entire screen as the opening movie came to a cresendo. So cool! So cool! (Evelyn)I wouldn't ask the veggie question in Toronto either...it's PW's version of the book, as he said; why go into the 'piss and m.' mode. This is his first film and apparently hit pay dirt. Peter Webber and Andy Patterson, the producer, are at the top of their game. They both seem to be young, bright, talented, capable, and handsome, too! Which a young man ought to be if at all possible.:-) They have come to America and scored! It is a great day for British cinema. They are playing to packed houses when the others were not. They have sweated over this, groaned, howled and tossed in their sleep and have given the world a new masterpiece. At the end of the day, Peter Webber was the man of the hour, hot, hot, hot! This is the time to offer congratulations and enter into the celebration. I really, really look forward to seeing them both in their tuxes receiving all the well-earned awards and remembering the day they walked down that footpath wearing blue jeans in the cool Colorado twilight and laughing together like mates.

Colin's name was first and alone. Yippee!! (though it could've been alphabetical). How about at the end or was it 'in order of appearance'? This is for extra credit.

(THR)welcoming a new generation of filmmakers and film fans. [...] (PW)"Then you realize there are new voices coming out, and it feels like that is being celebrated here and it's very nice." (Tom Ortenberg)"For our world premieres, I could not have dreamed of a better reaction to those two movies." YES! YES! YES!

Caribou, you are the best!! Thank you so much for your report. I can hardly believe you actually saw it twice. You are such a lucky girl.

"We're thrilled with the receptions to our films," Lions Gates' Tom Ortenberg said Oh so are we, so are we. I'm so thrilled for Colin, SJ and PW. How can we wait until December? I'm anticipating Colin doing a whole lot of publicity for this one. Thank you Karen and Mari for the excellent reviews. Oh this feels so good especially coming off the dismal ones we've endured this spring and summer. Again, Caribou...Thank you.

How about at the end or was it 'in order of appearance'? This is for extra credit. Something I saw said: Lions Gate Films Presents GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING A Film by Peter Webber STARRING Colin Firth Scarlett Johansson Tom Wilkinson Judy Parfitt Cillian Murphy Essie Davis I believe the end credits probably read: Vermeer.........................Colin Firth Griet....................Scarlett Johansson Van Ruijven...................Tom Wilkinson Maria Thins....................Judy Parfitt Pieter.......................Cillian Murphy Catarina........................Essie Davis Tanneke......................Joanna Scanlan Cornelia.......................Alakina Mann Griet's Father...............Chris McHallem Griet's Mother..............Gabrielle Reidy Maertge.....................Anna Popplewell You know, just off the top of my head, it I remember correctly.:-) :-) :-)

Lovely, lovely, lovely!! He did get top billing after all. To me, that really shows how much they wanted him for the film so that he precedes the main character. Here are some bits from IndieWire about Telluride: A few like George Mansour, a film buyer from Boston, have attended nearly all of the festivals -- one of only two he commits to each year. "Getting to Telluride is like getting to Russia," he quips. Even with a decent connection into Denver, the venue still requires another seven hours by car -- or a brief flight on one of the numerous puddle jumpers that gets you close to Telluride but still requires an hour shuttle ride "up the mountain." [Bravo Caribou!!] Sofia Coppola's "Lost in Translation," scheduled this year as an invitation-only, pre-festival screening for patrons, failed to live up to the "favored son" status bestowed on it by this slot....A quiet look at the many faces isolation can wear, the film ultimately failed to engage many of the Telluride viewers, who pronounced it "worth seeing, but...." Unfortunately, that was the case for several of the movies that showed initial promise. While in-line reviews of "Dogville," the new Lars Von Trier film starring Nicole Kidman, received enthusiastic praise from some festival goers, most were more tepid in their response. The film didn't score enough buzz to be slotted as a TBA on Monday, which is not a good sign. "Girl with a Pearl Earring" and "Shattered Glass" proved to be two of the more accessible films premiering over the weekend. "Girl" is an adaptation of Tracy Chevalier's much-acclaimed novel that depicts the social mores of 16th century Dutch society through the eyes of a young serving girl who works in the household of master painter, Johannes Vermeer. The film, like Vermeer's painting, is richly colored and deeply textured.

Sofia Coppola's "Lost in Translation,"..... the film ultimately failed to engage many of the Telluride viewers, who pronounced it "worth seeing, but...." Wow, I find that interesting. While in-line reviews of "Dogville," the new Lars Von Trier film starring Nicole Kidman, received enthusiastic praise from some festival goers, most were more tepid in their response. The film didn't score enough buzz to be slotted as a TBA on Monday, which is not a good sign. This doesn't surprise me at all. I do hope to see it though to judge for myself. And I second that BRAVO! to Caribou!!

(George)"Getting to Telluride is like getting to Russia," he quips. ROTFLOL! It's not quite as traumatic when you already live in Outer Slobovia instead of LA or NY. We've actually gone to other parts of CO just for the fun of it. Saturday AM, I thought it would be an hour further than a nice, pleasant drive to Durango. Bbbuuuuttt, I forgot a very important lesson in reading maps of mountainous areas--what looks like a very short distance may only be accessible to goats and llamas. By Saturday PM, I realized it would be comparable to a drive to Crested Butte which really requires a week's stay just to recover enough to face the journey home. (Lost in Translation) didn't score enough buzz to be slotted as a TBA on Monday, which is not a good sign. And GWAPE did!!!! Which is a very good sign. PW extended his stay. Probably to be there to introduce the 2:30PM showing that day which wouldn't have been a requirement. I think it shows just how much the entire team is putting into this. I feel like they are doing their best for it. And, it's a Firth film, WOO HOO!!!

Gaaah! We didn't know this...from Ananova: British star Keira Knightley is also in Venice to promote Love Actually - also being screened out of competition. How many hours is it from Rome? :-(

Caribou, your report back to us was a wonderful combination of pluck, grace, and beautiful imagery. For that thorough and vivid account, I thank you! Dame Caribou, indeed. I am excited for you, not to mention PW and ODB. It sounds like this movie may be the one.

WOW! I'm adding my thanks, praise and awe to all that have already been expressed. Well done Caribou! Well done Mr. Caribou!

Thank you, thank you Caribou!!! Have been reading about all of your adventures and I'm excited beyond belief to be seeing this film! What a trooper you are for getting to Telluride (and your sweet DH for cheering you on and then posting to let us know that you had made it there!)!! I would have commented earlier but had no computer for part of the weekend (Oh you don't know how I suffered, I knew you were going to be posting and I was a wreck knowing I couldn't 'see' what was happening to you!!!). Am now catching up on everything!!

Sofia Coppola's "Lost in Translation,"..... the film ultimately failed to engage many of the Telluride viewers, who pronounced it "worth seeing, but...." (Dorine), Wow, I find that interesting. Me too! They loved it in Venice. Sofia and Bill M are there. While in-line reviews of "Dogville," the new Lars Von Trier film I love his films and am looking forward to this one. Not everyone gets it. (Karen), How many hours is it from Rome? :-( Not even 2.

Sofia Coppola's "Lost in Translation,"..... the film ultimately failed to engage many of the Telluride viewers, who pronounced it "worth seeing, but...." (Moon) Me too! They loved it in Venice. Sofia and Bill M are there. Scarlett is too.

British star Keira Knightley is also in Venice to promote Love Actually - also being screened out of competition. I've been checking this site all week and didn't realize LA was being screened in Venice. It isn't on the Out of Competition List, either. I really thought GWAPE would screen here. Who or what determines which films will screen at a festival? Access Hollywood and E!News Live both had footage from Venice. Access Hollywood is doing another spot tomorrow night. No mention of LA. Both did spots on Kate Hudson and Le Divorce Venezia 59. Out Of Competition 11'09"01, September 11 B comme B�jart Between Strangers Blood Work La boite magique El caballero Don Quijote Clown in' Kabul Dancer Upstairs Johan Padan - A la descoverta de le Americhe K-19: The Widowmaker Naqoyqatsi Ripley's Game Rosa Funzeca My name is Tanino Ten Minutes Older: The Cello http://194.185.28.38/it/cinema/59mostra/scheda_press.cfm?ID=1573

(Moon) Me too! They loved it in Venice. Sofia and Bill M are there. (Dorine), Scarlett is too. That outfit! Scarlett needs the fashion patrol. I see what Colin means about her being a future director (no offense to Sofia who looks nice, although could use some jewelry), but Scarlett could be Penny Marshall in the future. ;-) El caballero Don Quijote Lora and I saw that one at the Miami FF.

Many, many thanks to each and every one of you for your kind words and expressions of thanks. Everyone who was at Telluride and can put thoughts into words is writing about it today but I feel like I have the best, most enthusiastic readers in the world. What an experience! I really wouldn't have done any of it if you had not been waiting. Mr. Caribou says that why support groups work, they make you do something bigger than yourself. So, I really appreciate all of you.

(Moon) That outfit! Scarlett needs the fashion patroll....but Scarlett could be Penny Marshall in the future. ;-) Either that or she took a page out of the Cybill Shepherd stylebook.;-) Yikes.

(Dame Caribou) Mr. Caribou says that why support groups work, they make you do something bigger than yourself. Nice compliment for Drool. Through the years I have seen that happen . We learn a lot at Drool...ODB is a good catalyst;-)

Chiming in to add a heartfelt thank-you to Caribou. Your beautiful descriptions of GWAPE made my week (and made me weak!). ;-)

GWAPE will be screening at the London Film Festival on 30 October. I have just received an e-mail from Tracy Chevalier: It will be showing at the LFF on 30 October. It's a gala thing, so I don't know if it's open to the public. It should be! I've seen the film too and it's wonderful... Cheers, Tracy

(Linda) I've been checking this site all week and didn't realize LA was being screened in Venice. Well, can't say I've been checking constantly, but I did check the lineups and, when I didn't see it, I ignored the fest coverage. Silly me. ;-D (Lisa) Either that or she took a page out of the Cybill Shepherd stylebook.;-) *snort* I remember that one. Excellent memory! A Big Thank You Caribou from your fellow sufferers for sharing your wonderful Rocky Mountain high with us! With the next two movies coming up, I'm getting ready to remove the bag:

Excellent news, Aishling!! You should be able to buy tickets to the gala, but no details at the fest site yet. The Times is now the sponsor, so there should be details at its site and in the newspaper.

Congratulations, Aishling!!! Please pass along my thanks to Tracy for writing such a powerful book that got this ball rolling. And, that I am especially thankful for how the characters maintain their integrity throughout! Cheers, Tracy and all involved, indeed!!!!

Caribou, what an adventure you had! I've been out of the loop these last few weeks but, thanks to Maria, am catching up with your literal "Aint No Mountain High Enough" experience. You gave such wonderful details and such breathtaking imagery of your Rockie Mountain high. You did a fantastic job relating your Telluride journey! Thank you, thank you for sharing your story, and thank your DH for all his support too. The movie sounds like a real winner. And isn't it just like ODB to be the supportive, subtle, and integral influence to this film. Caribou, thanks for bringing GWAPE's many assets to us so early on. As everyone has said, You Rock in the Rockies! Love your Aspen tree imagery too! Glad you're a "Caribou" so you knew what to do in that mountainous/momentous environment ;-).

Oh, Lora, thank you! I was really missing your imput. I love how you turn a phrase to everyone's delight. (Lora)And isn't it just like ODB to be the supportive I am still really having a hard time with his role being called supportive. Were Fitzwilliam Darcy, Mark Darcy and Henry Dashwood support roles? What do you think Aishling? Can we just lump everybody except Griet into support?

(Karen),Excellent news, Aishling!! You should be able to buy tickets to the gala, Fantastic news! You must go to the gala. First choice of course. Keep us posted. On the Florida front, the HS poster is still up at the movie theaters. I'm just waiting to see when it will open. First reported on the 5th now it looks like it's the 15th. Lora and I plan to go.

(Moon Dreams)On the Florida front, the HS poster is still up at the movie theaters. I'm just waiting to see when it will open. First reported on the 5th now it looks like it's the 15th. Lora and I plan to go. Fandango has showtimes listed for Friday in both of our zip codes...

Anyone from N.H? http://www.themusichall.org/schedule/detail.cfm?EventID=1397

(Caribou)Were Fitzwilliam Darcy, Mark Darcy and Henry Dashwood support roles? Well, er, yes, .. one might say semi-supporting..."he drove the bus";-) IMO there are different types of supporting roles. Like Laura said, in GWAPE like in P&P he was definitely integral. Aishling...you sly fox;-)if you've seen GWAPE ...how about a review on #177.

Aishling posted a note from Tracy Chevalier, who said she'd seen the film. Not Aishling...yet. Right now, it's too soon to tell about nominations and in what categories, if at all. Remember, frequently a studio opts for a category where it thinks it can win, rather than based on the size/significance of the role. Thanks for the link, Maria. The group that organizes Telluride is based in New Hampshire, so they've culled out the best to show locally. How nice! But they don't say what day? 7 pm on Sat or Sun (Sept 20th or 21st)

Sorry, didn't keep reading. It is the Saturday night show, Sept 20, at 7 pm

(Karen)With the next two movies coming up, I'm getting ready to remove the bag: Whew, time to breath, I'm sure of it;-) Good luck, Aishling. Hope you are able to get tickets. Moon and Lora best of luck to the two of you for HS. Why can't I live in Toronto, Telluride, or NH??? Why?*whining big time*

(Karen)Aishling posted a note from Tracy Chevalier, who said she'd seen the film. Not Aishling...yet. Oops,sorry Aishling...AAA. I take back what I said about you:-((( Knew you wouldn't back out on us:-))) New Hampshire, huh? Susan* might live close. Do I dare ask her??? *Susan drove a van in the dead of night, through unkown territory to give us a report on MLSF screening at the Rhode Island FF in 1999. What a gang!

A little tidbit from Peter Webber from our cloven-hoofed one: "We were lucky enough to get great actors," Webber said. "But even with great actors, you never can tell whether the sparks will fly, so you have to use your intuition. Sometimes it's right and sometimes it's wrong, and in this case it was definitely right. The performances are what make the movie tick. For me, the painting and everything else is background. The most important thing is a middle-aged man's obsession with a younger girl, a younger girl falling in love with an impressive older man, and the jealousy around the house. It's a story about power, money and sex."

It's a story about power, money and sex." I don't think any reviewer will write this. I think he was smoking something. "But even with great actors, you never can tell whether the sparks will fly, so you have to use your intuition. Sometimes it's right and sometimes it's wrong, and in this case it was definitely right. It's his first feature film. He's only done TV. (?)

Moved all this over here... http://www.interviewmagazine.com/images/sjohanssonp1.pdf GF: Girl With A Pearl Earring derives its power from its restraint: Griet, your character, and Vermeer, simply can�t act upon their feelings. SJ: It would have tainted the relationship between Vermeer and Griet if someone on the film had suggested there should be a scene of Vermeer standing by a window watching Griet wash her breasts in a basin. Not that it�s not sexual between them, but there�s a time and place for everything, especially regarding that kind of sexiness. If I was doing a sexy project, I would never give everything because that�s not interesting to watch. It�s more interesting to wonder what you�re not getting. GF: Did seeing Vermeer�s painting in The Hague give you fresh insights? SJ: Not really. It was funny because there was so much pressure around me seeing it that when I did, I was like, �Okay, there it is.� Some guy was giving me this Big Whatever about what�s special about it. I hate that. Part of the reason I love going to the museum with my dad is because we look at the paintings and then look at each other and go, �Hmmm, this is nice, isn�t it?� GF: Do you think Griet loses her virginity when her ear is pierced by Vermeer or when she actually has sex with the butcher�s boy? SJ: A-ha! [laughs] I think she�s taken with the piercing. Totally taken. Symbolically, I mean. There was no turning back after that point really, was there? One tear just came out beautifully and everybody always asks, �Was that teardrop real?� Everything was magical in that moment. GF: Did you draw on your own thoughts about love? SJ: Absolutely. Though it�s never specific. I�m not a method actor, but I think I subconsciously draw on my own experience and my own feelings, because otherwise, it�s just stale and doesn�t work. I fell completely in love with the idea of the Vermeer character. There�s one scene where Griet sees Vermeer stroking and kissing his wife. I was a basket case because, for whatever reason, it wounded me. It�s a strange job to be an actor because you�re emotionally vulnerable all the time when you�re working, and it can be dangerous if you�re not grounded and don�t have people around you who are separate from your work.

(SJ)There�s one scene where Griet sees Vermeer stroking and kissing his wife. I was a basket case I'm about to turn one, only by reading this interview. I think you are right about Scarlett, Dorine: and old soul and very insightfull. Thank you so much for typing it. Very good interview.

There are several more questions, but they didn't directly pertain to GWAPE.

Thanks, Dorine. I think Caribou needs to expound on the "stroking" scene on Spoilers. ;-D

Dave Poland's Hot Button Column on Toronto: "...Tomorrow, I plan on seeing, amongst other things, Bon Voyage by Jean-Paul Rappeneau, who makes infrequent, but gorgeous films, like the Depardieu Cyrano d Bergerac. Then it�s The Girl With The Pearl Earring aka The Coronation of Scarlett Johansson. Then it is off to see Neil Young�s live performance of Greendale, which should get some serious heat building up around the film of the same name, directed by Young, that�s here at the festival. Who is the man behind the concert opportunity? The Dude, of course. (That�s Jeff Dowd to� well, his mom, I guess.)" http://www.thehotbutton.com/today/hot.button/2003_thb/030904_thu.html

Thanks, Murph! As i've said, GWAPE is the happening film to see at Toronto. (Karen), Thanks, Dorine. I think Caribou needs to expound on the "stroking" scene on Spoilers. ;-D I quite agree!

Forget to say that the HS preview was on at 9pm last night just before the Latin Grammies. That's prime time. I almost fell of the chair. I'm not used to hearing CF's name on TV. Opens on Friday here.

Two page spread on GWAPE in Telluride special FF supplement, courtesy of Caribou. Mainly quotes from Webber, but I thought the fictionalized version of the project being spread here quite amusing. ;-D http://www.firth.com/gwape_art1.html One new pic of Johannes and Catharina

That's the one where Vermeer is caressing Catherina. Thanks, Caribou and Karen!

production designer Ben van Os, best known for his work with Peter Greenaway. Ohhhhh....better and better! Peter Greenaway's films have a fantastic 'look' (IMO), very surreal....loaded with lots of detail. Am excited beyond belief to see this movie!!!!

What great news everyone. I think the British critics will need to "apologize" to Colin when they review this film. I'm on cloud nine for him. This is great. Thanks again Caribou for such a great and exciting report, and thanks everyone for all the reviews and interviews.

Love Actually (p.45) in the NY Post Fall Preview special section today (9/4): http://specialsections.nypost.com/news/nypost/fallentpreview/20030904/p45.asp

very surreal....loaded with lots of detail. Am excited beyond belief to see this movie!!! Ben van Os has done an excellent job. This one isn't surreal. I think because it is set during the time of the Dutch masters and they are more about how real paintings can be made--how soft the satin of that looks, how the wine sparkles in the glass. So, consequently, his sets are like that. Loaded with lots of detail Lots and lots and lots. In everything the camera looks at. Whether its a long shot of the studio or a close up of someone with only a wall behind them, there is more than I could precieve after two viewings. It reminds me of Shakespeare--when I go to a play I'm not familiar with, I just let the rich, vibrant words flood over me because they are too hard to dissect and process. That is how GWAPE is visually-not with language. I just had to let the warm colors and compositions flow because it was too much for the eye to dissect at first. But, it will be lots of fun to use the pause button when the video comes out. What treasures await us then, hey girls?

Sorry, those quotes were from Tress.

(SJ)There�s one scene where Griet sees Vermeer stroking and kissing his wife. I was a basket case because, for whatever reason, it wounded me.. I thought that was an interesting comment. I'm wondering why, too. I would love to hear Colin's side of things. Hope he does an interview such as this. Thanks Dorine, Kare, and Murph for the articles. �You can do all of the technical stuff, but unless it is sparking between your two central characters, you may as well pack up and go home,� Webber said I think he may have gotten fireworks.

production designer Ben van Os, best known for his work with Peter Greenaway. (Tress) Peter Greenaway's films have a fantastic 'look' (IMO), very surreal....loaded with lots of detail. (Caribou) This one isn't surreal. I think because it is set during the time of the Dutch masters and they are more about how real paintings can be made And the article talked about how Webber had directed both van Os and Serra to look at the paintings of other Dutch painters of the period for details. I expect it look more like a Wings of the Dove, also shot by Eduardo Serra, than anything by Greenway (no split screens). ;-D

From Yahoo Movies Message Board.... More praise for GWAPE! "Friends who saw the film this weekend say it was wonderful..glorious photography, tight script, perfectly nuanced acting, marvelous cast. Can't wait to see it!"

Did you see this one, Bethan? A backhanded compliment for Colin. There was a question at the end wondering if the girl was real or historically documented somewhere. Hi guys - was lucky enough to see Girl With the Pearl Earring at a press screening last night. Really enjoyed it - subtly erotic and it looks absolutely awesome. Every frame looks like Vermeer had painted it. Best thing by far was Scarlett Johansson. I'd tip her for an Oscar for sure. Pefectly cast lips apart from anything else. Colin Firth a bit silly - I'm a hetero bloke so what do I know but I've always found him a bit of a weird choice for sex symbol. Good performance here, though. Anyway... I haven't read the book but suspect they've taken too much out. It was only 90 minutes long. Too pared down which is unusual in these days of overblown Hollywood epics...

From USA Today, an article on upcoming film adaptations of books: "You sign a contract with the studio that says you're not allowed to give the film any bad publicity," says Tracy Chevalier, author of the best seller Girl With a Pearl Earring, coming to theaters Dec. 12. "When I saw it in the film contract, I asked them to take it out. But it's standard. And it makes sense: You don't want the author to be undermining the film." Fortunately, Chevalier loves the movie. "It was so beautifully done, I burst into tears," she says. "It had been my baby. Now she's grown up and gotten married and had her own life, and she's a beautiful bride. They captured something that I was looking for when I wrote the book."

What it says isn't news, but it's news that he's in the gossip column again for the second time in a couple of weeks... from The Green Room by Neil Sean, Metro newspaper Pride and Prejudice star Colin Firth hoped his days as a sex symbol were behind him. But the actor, who shot to fame as Mr Darcy, is still the object of many women's desires. 'He gets thousands of letters from teenage girls declaring their love,' an insider tells me.

Fortunately, Chevalier loves the movie. "It was so beautifully done, I burst into tears," I'm not saying I don't believe her, but in light of the article, what else is she going to say? I remember the hubbub over Anne Rice publicly dissing Tom Cruise for Interview With a Vampire, then did quite an about-face and proclaimed her love of him and the movie. I completely agreed with her first assessment. I thought he was the wrong choice, but felt he was more or less ok in the part. Thanks Emma and Mari.

In my capacity as official Wet Blanket, this is from David Poland's Hot Button (and you'll recall this guy had GWAPE on his must-see list of big time possibles): What I rushed out for was a screening of Girl With The Pearl Earring, highly touted as a Scarlett Johansson Oscar vehicle. Nope. Love Scarlett, love Colin Firth, love Judy Parfitt and thrilled by finding Essie Davis, which I don�t recall seeing every before. I even love Vermeer. Well, I like his stuff a lot. But I found Girl With The Pearl Earring to be nearly the height of boredom. I didn�t like it the first time around when Tom Wilkinson (whose work I also love and who co-stars in this film) and Minnie Driver did it in The Governess. But at least I was kept awake by the opportunity to see Minnie expose her bosom� and even better, I saw it in a theater with Winona Ryder, who was dating Minnie�s ex at the time, there checking out the competition. I love a good class struggle love story. But being a story of manners is not enough. The emotional theme, that the power of Vermeer�s art drew some women into his vortex and made them his willing victims, did not play out in the story. I�m pretty comfortable with subtle, but dear lord, there needs to be at least a light pulse beating. If you like Scarlett Johansson, go see Lost In Translation. If you like Colin Firth, rent What A Girl Wants. If you like Judy Parfitt, rent the vastly underrated Delores Clairborne. And if you like films about great artists, it�s back to Adaptation for you! ~~~~~~~~~~ Gaah, am horrified this guy even brought up The Governess...but I have something far more positive from another pro in a bit who has seen it.

"You sign a contract with the studio that says you're not allowed to give the film any bad publicity,...standard" Jane Smiley did for ATA. But do you blame her? Those reviews on the IMDb and Yahoo board, I view with suspicion. I've know people who posted glowing reviews on CF films who never had seen them yet. That and industry types.

(Karen) In my capacity as official Wet Blanket...(quoting) nearly the height of boredom. LOL First of all, this kind of review had to be coming. A film about an artist where everything is implied and the height of eroticism is piercing her ear and seeing her hair? You either get it or you don't. Got my own list of award winning films I don't get (not, of course, that awards for GWAPE are a foregone conclusion.) As for 'official Wet Blanket', I always thought it was more a senior Jedi Master kind of thing, wise in the ways of the force with no illusions about the dark side. It's a tough job, but someone's got to do it. ;-)

Now, the brighter news, from a film magazine writer, based in London, who attended a screening (and this is not his usual genre): "I loved the movie. Entrancing and beautifully shot. Colin gives one of his enigmatic less-is-more performances but he's so good in it. Everyone is going to be talking about Scarlet though, it's a career-making turn from her. You are really going to enjoy it, I know. And it features one of the most erotic scenes I can recall - even though it's just Vermeer piercing Greit's ear so she can wear the pearl. The film opens in the UK in January now because the rave Variety review from the Telluride Festival has made Pathe rethink their campaign. They believe they have a major art house hit on their hands, and I think they are right."

(Dorine)in light of the article, what else is she going to say? She could easily have declined to comment, so I think she's being sincere in her praise. (Karen)Gaah, am horrified this guy even brought up The Governess... Quite possibly one of the worst movies of all time. the rave Variety review from the Telluride Festival has made Pathe rethink their campaign. Shows you how much clout Variety has. If I had to pick one, I'd rather have a rave from Variety than a rave from Dave Poland, any day. At least he liked the actors. As Barb said, this won't be everyone's cuppa, and that's fine.

But at least I was kept awake by the opportunity to see Minnie expose her bosom� and even better, I saw it in a theater with Winona Ryder, who was dating Minnie�s ex at the time, there checking out the competition. LOL! I'm not worried about Dave Poland's review...we are obviously looking at different things when we go to a film. Now the other review....... And it features one of the most erotic scenes I can recall - How am I to survive this??? OH! I'm a mess as it is! They believe they have a major art house hit on their hands, and I think they are right. Yea! That's what I like to hear! I'm sure there will be mediocre and bad reviews, like Mari says...this won't be everyone's cuppa, but I think it may be a winner for ODB!

A preview hard copy thanks to an anonymous fan of Russell Crowe's -- The NY Times, Sunday, Spetember 7: Crib Sheet: What to Read at the Movies by Polly Shulman: Girl With A Pearl Earring Although Tracy Chevalier�s �Girl With A Pearl Earring� spent most of 2001 on the New York Times list of best-selling paperbacks, it has all the hallmarks of a successful young-adult novel: a teenage heroine, an educational setting, a painful run-in with love a a tug of war between family responsibilities and the allure of art. Greit, the 16 year old daughter of a 17th century Delft tile painter, finds her social status taking a precipitous drop after her father loses his sight in a kiln explosion. To help feed the family, she goes to work as a maidservant for the painter Johannes Vermeer. She minds the children, washes the linen and keeps the house spotless. But when Vermeer asks her to clean his studio, which is off limits to the rest of the household, her new responsibility rouses the jealousy of both her fellow maid and Vermeer�s wife. As Greit�s master comes to rely on her for her steady hands and her artist�s eye, she finds herself succumbing to dangerous new emotions. (In the film version of this Cinderella-meets-Jane-Eyre story, she is played by Scarlett Johansson. Colin Firth � cast as Vermeer � will have to transform his customary Darcy into something closer to Mr. Rochester.) Ms. Chevalier uses the right tools for the job. How better to tell the story of a master painter of interiors than through the eyes of the person who keeps them in order? Ms. Chevalier does a fine job moving from the visual medium of painting to the verbal one of fiction: her writing is meticulous, luminous and introspective, as befits her subject. The book is a natural for the visual language of film; expect gently gleaming brass, rich carpets, long views down hallways and pale light flooding in from high windows on the left. (Dec.12) And the image with the blurb (sorry for the poor scan):

Forgot to add that there is whole article on Scarlett Johansson: Scarlett Johansson, Indie Ingenue and Expert Lolita - "She's making a specialty of teen-age muses. Next to receive the treatment: Bill Murray and Colin Firth"

Possible heads up on special screenings by Bafta (and who will lead the charge on LA): Hugh Grant will follow in the footsteps of Sir Michael Caine and George Lucas when he receives the Stanley Kubrick Britannia Award for Excellence in Film later this year. The star of Four Weddings and a Funeral, About a Boy and the US hit Two Weeks Notice will collect his honour from BAFTA/LA at a Los Angeles ceremony in November. His next release is the ensemble comedy-romance Love Actually, which is due to open here on November 21.

Thanks for the new pic from your friend, Murph! v. interesting shot. You think those are his hands? *snort*

I double those thanks Murph! Yeah, his hands are dipping in and giving me the vapors and I don't think she is faking her reaction either! ( I know I wouldn't be!)

(Maria)I double those thanks Murph! Yeah, his hands are dipping in and giving me the vapors and I don't think she is faking her reaction either! ( I know I wouldn't be!) You said it all, I have nothing more to add about that picture. Except Oh Holy S--t! and thank you, Murph. I'm now a total mess for the weekend;-) They believe they have a major art house hit on their hands, and I think they are right. Oh the joy of positive reviews. David who?

From a review of Toronto FF pics on Eye Weekly: GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING Dir Peter Webber w/ Scarlett Johansson, Colin Firth. 95 min. Gala. Sep 7, 9:30pm, Roy Thomson Hall; Sep 8 noon, Uptown. As muted and still as a Vermeer painting, Girl With a Pearl Earring has atmosphere to burn and a near-total action vacuum. Scarlett Johansson is Griet, a servant sent to the house of artist Johannes Vermeer (Colin Firth), a brooding type who quickly sizes her up for his next masterpiece; Johansson's milk-white skin and bruised-looking lips make her a dead ringer for the painting of the film's title. Much of the film dwells on the life of a 17th-century kitchen drudge in the form of Griet's endless chopping, stirring, washing and fetching. When Vermeer initiates her into the life of an artist, it's just more housework for the girl: more fetching and dusting, and now mixing and pounding to make paint. The conflicts in the film are so deeply sublimated, they're almost non-existent. CT

(Maria) I double those thanks Murph! Yeah, his hands are dipping in and giving me the vapors and I don't think she is faking her reaction either! ( I know I wouldn't be!) OMG......that's all.......... oh...and 'thank you Murph'!!

Thank you, Murph! Caribou when does that scene take place, at the piano? Is he thinking of Griet? The conflicts in the film are so deeply sublimated, they're almost non-existent. Something to think about. Now to HS. Yes it is at all the major important theaters near me. I have quite a choice of places to see it. There is no review in the Miami Herald. Only a huge half page add in the weekend magazine with a quotation from Cosmopolitan which gives it 4 stars and says: A Sweet Subtle Delight. Lora is out of town till next week so I might have to drag DH to see it. Oh Dear! Does anyone know if it's going to play anywhere else in the US? Good luck to our Toronto FF representsatives!!! We await your full report.

Thanks for the pic, Murph! Boy, those 17th century people sure were filthy. My kingdom for a Jacuzzi!;-) Sounds like that's the scene where Scarlett said she felt wounded, watching him stroke and kiss his wife. (Moon)I might have to drag DH to see it. Oh Dear! Why put the 2 of you through that?;-) Just go see it yourself. I sometimes go to the movies by myself, and have noticed many lone women in theaters. If the men don't want to go, screw 'em, I say. Let 'em sit home. Is the pic in the ad the same as the poster? They obviously didn't preview it for critcs, and that's why there are no reviews.

OMG Karen, if those pictures are what Caribou was talking about on Spoilers when she said ...it doesn't sound all that impressive to say he comes over, opens the lid, and later points out how it works I get the point. Wherever did you get those pictures? And if things like this are going to be coming out piecemeal til the film is released, I don't know if my heart can stand it!

Grrrrr, I've lightened my screen as much as I can, and I can just *barely* make out your pic, Karen. If it's what I think it is....mmmmmmmm. (Mari) Just go see it yourself. I sometimes go to the movies by myself, and have noticed many lone women in theaters. If the men don't want to go, screw 'em, I say. Let 'em sit home. LOL! I second that! I know it's better to go with someone in order to share the experience, but if I hadn't gone by myself to WAGW, I wouldn't have gone at all, denying myself the big screen HD experience. I don't think I'm going to get the opportunity to see HS, even alone; I checked all over Kentucky and northern Tennessee, and nada :( Many thanks to all for the fantastic GWAPE news reports...

That noise you hear is the sound of buzz fizzling.:-( From Jeff Wells's column. Great for Colin, though: There was some pre-festival heat about Peter Webber's GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING, mainly due to excitement over LOST IN TRANSLATION's Scarlett Johansson playing the lead. I caught it last night at a 6 pm screening, and I can't say I was thrilled. It's handsomely shot and produced -- the Dutch period dressings are a trip in themselves, and the soft-lit photography by Eduardo Serra (UNBREAKABLE) has a lustrous painterly aura, but dramatically the film is just okay. And Johansson, who's innately talented but is only 18, is nowhere near as intriguing or captivating in this as she is in the Sofia Coppola film. A period drama set in 17th Century Holland and based on Tracy Chevalier's novel, it's about how a well-known Johannes Vermeer painting came to be. Johansson plays Griet, a peasant girl who lands a job as a maid in the home of Vermeer, played by Colin Firth. She eventually becomes the model for Vermeer's portrait, but not without cost. Vermeer quietly develops the hots for her, and his wife and family eventually take notice (especially his wife), recriminations result, and Griet gets shafted. And Vermeer, entirely responsible for her misfortune, doesn't lift a finger. Firth's Vermeer is the strongest performance by far. I believed in him every step of the way -- the burning intensity, conjugal weaknesses, repressed longings and hints of lechery. IN THE BEDROOM's Tom Wilkinson is also quite good as Van Ruijven,Vermeer's financial backer. Johansson's performance was okay, but I began to be bothered after a while that her mouth was always open. Whatever the scene, whatever the moment (with the exception of her romantic scenes with 28 DAYS LATER's Cillian Murphy), she responds with her lips slightly parted -- a look of fear, docility, intimidation. There's not enough range. GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING is kind of a companion piece to LOST IN TRANSLATION, in a way -- older accomplished guy falls for much younger woman, a marriage contract and other constraints prevent the relationship from going anywhere, but a touching residue endures in the aftermath. I wasn't angered or turned off, but I wasn't floored either. It'll be an okay attraction for older audiences who go for this kind of thing.

I've been ecstatic for the past few days, what with Caribou's wonderful reports and the screen captures posted. I was counting the weeks until November. But now,because it's expected to do so well, it's release in the UK is being delayed?! And I was so looking forward to a very special birthday treat.

Yes, they'd want it closer to your Baftas as well for more impact.

the burning intensity, conjugal weaknesses, repressed longings and hints of lechery Ooooh! Me likee!! Thanks all.

There are more pics here, all made possible by our go-getter Caribou: http://www.firth.com/gwape_gal_cap1.html

I saw the hands...how could I miss them??? Decided to see if Karen had posted new pics to the GWAPE gallery...run...don't walk! THANK YOU Caribou and Karen!!!!!

Fantastic GWAPE page, Karen. Thanks, Caribou! It'll be an okay attraction for older audiences who go for this kind of thing. I am still part of the younger audience, TYVM! We will see this typte of prejudice from reviewers that don't care for period pieces, but feel that they can't put the film down. And Johansson, who's innately talented but is only 18, is nowhere near as intriguing or captivating in this as she is in the Sofia Coppola film. It was the opposite reaction at Telluride. Just go see it yourself. I sometimes go to the movies by myself, and have noticed many lone women in theaters. If the men don't want to go, screw 'em, I say. I'd go alone too, I saw BJD in London by myself. Somehow, I just can't believe that HS will be around for more than 3 days. I have this feeling that if I don't see it now. It'll be gone. Silly huh? ;-)