(Kimberly)...- Essie Davis talking about her role in Jumpers ... I saw her last week in "Jumpers" as Dotty the Ditz. Lots of nudity (great bod!)and some singing (with those body- mics, anybody can sing on B'way nowdays). Acting wasn't extraordinary. She was better as Catarina.

Did anyone else here see Closer on stage, either NY or London? I saw it on Broadway with Ciaran Hinds, Rupert Graves, Natasha Richardson and Anna Friel. I believe Clive was in the original London cast. Anyway, from Jeff Wells's column, here's a test screening report on the film version which opens in December, or what I'll call "Here's what happens when you appear in a real movie with a real director who's working from real source material from a real playwright." ;-) ************** Closer and Clive Curiously, weirdly, Upcoming Movies editor Greg Dean Schmitz has for the last few months continued to fail to create a page for Mike Nichols' CLOSER, an adaptation of Patrick Marber's play that Columbia will be opening on December 3rd. This despite the likely heat this thing will be bringing to the Oscar race, despite the obvious quality of the play (I wrote an admiring piece about it two or three months ago), and despite the implied promise of Nichols, a reliable actor's director, taking Jude Law, Julia Roberts, Clive Owen and Nathalie Portman by the hand. Well, perhaps intransigent Greg will change his tune after reading this report from a screening that happened last night (Tuesday, 6.1) at 7:30 pm at the AMC 7 in Santa Monica. It comes from a reader named Donlee Brussell. "I just got out of the very first screening of CLOSER, and all I have to say is that the film is all you'd expect it to be and then some. Almost every single scene builds to astounding crescendos. "Jude Law is good, but Clive Owen is the big scene-stealer. He steals every one he's in. The range he shows when he breaks up with Anna (Roberts' role)is amazing. Another scene he has with Portman in a strip club is just pitch perfect in the way he plays it. "This film, more than CROUPIER or the upcoming KING ARTHUR, shows that Clive is really the Next Big Thing. "And no, Julia Roberts does not fuck things up by relying on her usual tricks...laughing, flashing her teeth, the big smile, etc. "After the film ended, there was some very long clapping. And for the first time ever at a research screening I've attended, not one person left before filling out the comment card. I wanted to be a part of the focus group afterwards, mainly to say that not a frame should be changed, but they already had enough yuppie couples. "As is, CLOSER is the best thing I've seen all year. It's certainly the best thing anyone in the film, including Nichols, has touched in years. "There are some little details from the play that have been changed. We see the opening car accident, for example. And while the film has a rep as being erotic on some level, the only person with a nude scene is Clive Owen. "Natalie Portman is a revelation. Along with her work in GARDEN STATE, her transition from teen to adult films is now complete. "The funniest thing in the movie is an online conversation between Owen and Law where there is no spoken dialogue between them. I worry though that this scene and the Owen-Roberts break-up one might push the film to an NC-17 for dialogue alone, like it did with CLERKS and YOUR FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS. "What made me love the film so much was how realistic so much of it felt -- the dialogue, actions, reactions. Pretty much all the dialogue from Marber's play is intact. The scenes go on for five minutes and are enthralling every second. The blocking is very theatrical as well, and I think that only served to help. "I can't stress how good this thing was. Expect to see some enthusiastic AICN reviews popping up starting on Wednesday. There's definitely a buzz on this thing because there was a line around the block when I got there at 6:30. By the time I got up front, the line was around the block again, and theywere turning away more than half the people. "I can only hope they promote it properly."

How did Clive Owen manage to get so big in so little time? ;-) Thanks Mari! I look forward to this one.

". I worry though that this scene and the Owen-Roberts break-up one might push the film to an NC-17 for dialogue alone,..." The play certainly was. Review sounds like a die-hard Clive Owen fan wrote it. Thanks Mari. I saw the play;-)

Excellent! I can't wait to see this one. (Mari) "Here's what happens when you appear in a real movie with a real director who's working from real source material from a real playwright." ;-) Ditto. Couldn't have said it better myself.

The list of presenters for the 2004 Tony Awards continues to grow. Renee Zellweger, Edie Falco, Harvey Fierstein, Swoosie Kurtz, Victor Garber, Rob Marshall, John Rubenstein and Carol Channing are the latest additions to the ever-growing list. These artists join the previously announced Tony Bennett, Mary J. Blige, Sean Combs, Taye Diggs, Jimmy Fallon, Joel Grey, Ethan Hawke, Anne Heche, LL Cool J, Billy Joel, Scarlett Johansson, Nicole Kidman, Jane Krakowski, Peter Krause, Nathan Lane, Laura Linney, John Lithgow, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Dame Helen Mirren, Sarah Jessica Parker, Anna Paquin, Bernadette Peters, Phylicia Rashad, Chita Rivera, Carole Bayer Sager, Martin Short, Sigourney Weaver, Patrick Stewart and Marissa Jaret Winokur. The 58th Annual Tony Awards will be presented Sunday, June 6 at Radio City Music Hall. CBS-TV will broadcast the event live, 8-11 PM ET. The Boy From Oz's Hugh Jackman returns as host for the theatre's biggest night

Anybody see "Something the Lord Made" on HBO? Terrific docu-drama . Excellent performance by Alan Rickman. Worthy of an Emmy nomination. Mos Def also outstanding. Have only seen him in hip-hop roles.

(Evelyn ) Anybody see "Something the Lord Made" on HBO? Yes, and I, too, felt both performances were exceptional. AR's accent was even believable. The story is amazing....it takes so much courage to stand up against the establishment like that....especially in a research institution (even Johns Hopkins) where they can cut the lifeline ( job) any time they choose if you displease them.

LOL! No different than her prosthetic nose. ;-) Nicole Kidman May Need Padding for 'Producers' Role Thu Jun 3, 6:49 PM ET NEW YORK (Reuters) - Rail-thin Nicole Kidman will need a little help making the transformation to a buxom Swedish secretary for her next role with Matthew Broderick, in the film version of Mel Brooks' stage hit "The Producers." "Mel says we'll pad her," said Broderick. "I think we should pad her, I guess." Broderick also stars with Kidman in the updated, dark-comedy version of "Stepford Wives," a film he was promoting on Thursday in advance of its opening next week. Kidman's slim, fashion-model frame is shown to advantage in her "Stepford Wives" role as Broderick's wife. For "The Producers," she will be play statuesque Swedish secretary Ulla, whose bountiful bosom inspires numerous jokes in the Brooks farce. Broderick will be reprising his role as meek accountant Leo Bloom in "The Producers," opposite Nathan Lane, who created the stage role of devious Broadway producer Max Bialystock. "She could look like a Swede. She's psychotically tall, which I think will be good. I think it's a good part for her. I can't wait. I think she'll be great," Broderick said. Kidman said Broderick helped bring her into the project during their work together on the "Stepford" movie. The new Brooks film is set to begin shooting in February. Physical augmentation for a film role would not be entirely new for Kidman, who had a prosthetic nose put on her face for the 2002 movie "The Hours." The Australian beauty won an best-actress Oscar for her portrayal of writer Virginia Woolf in that film.

What do Renee, Scarlett, and Jimmy Fallon have to do with Broadway/Tony's? A rhetorical question...I know they want star power, though Jimmy Fallon? ;-) (Evelyn) Anybody see "Something the Lord Made" on HBO? Not yet, but been wanting to see it. Will have to catch repeats. Did anyone see the new The Lion in Winter with Patrick Stewart and Glenn Close? I missed it, but will look for repeats. Saw a "Making of" show on Showtime with it a while back and wasn't overly enthused. Can't imagine it can compare, but I'd like to see it to make an informed opinion. Looking forward to Closer. Love the cast (though I could leave Julia Roberts) and director. Am frothing at the mouth to see Fahrenheit 9/11. Will give Lyins Gate a couple of points back for helping to get this out. ;-)

She's psychotically tall LOL!!

(Dorine)Did anyone see the new The Lion in Winter with Patrick Stewart and Glenn Close? I missed it, but will look for repeats. Saw a "Making of" show on Showtime with it a while back and wasn't overly enthused. Can't imagine it can compare, but I'd like to see it to make an informed opinion. I actually work across from the woman who produced that "Making of Spot" . .she enjoyed going on set and interviewing everyone . .she's a big fan of the original film. .and I think did like the new one . . . I think she was big fans of the actors who played the sons. I have a screener you can borrow if you want (I do have to return it after you're done). .haven't watched it yet so I can't comment fully . .do love the play and original film . .did a scene from the play in acting class some time ago . . .great stuff;) One of my favorite lines: Eleanor:"I could peel you like a pear and God himself would call it justice . . "

(Bonnie)AR's accent was even believable. Except that he sorta lost it half-way through. SPOILER: Something God Made The story is amazing....it takes so much courage to stand up against the establishment like that....especially in a research institution (even Johns Hopkins) where they can cut the lifeline ( job) any time they choose if you displease them. But to give them their due, Vivien did get a huge acknowledgement at the end. Johns Hopkins didn't have to go the whole way. A poignant film .

(Ev)But to give them their due, Vivien did get a huge acknowledgement at the end. Johns Hopkins didn't have to go the whole way. A poignant film . And pretty amazing that I knew nothing of it. I remember enjoying *lost women* stories about amazing women in the past who got short shrift in the history books and this was a remarkable story about a *lost man*.

Saw "Something the Lord Made" and loved it! Rickman was perfect, the accent was excellent, and he played the part with subtlety and great dignity. I may make a trip by Hopkins next time I'm in Baltimore to see the portraits. Also saw the Stewart/Close "Lion in Winter". It was not the original film by any stretch (and how tough to follow the likes of Katherine Hepburn...sheesh), but Close seemed to grow into the part and by the end, was wonderful. Stewart gave a sound performance (IMHO)but lacked the sparkle of O'Toole. For some silly reason, I found the hair (though well executed) a bit distracting. The secondary characters (the sons) seemed weak to me, but how can you compete with Anthony Hopkins, Timothy Dalton, and the rest? For me, the original Hepburn/O'Toole film will always be the benchmark, but this was an excellent production and one I'd watch again

Thanks for the Lion in Winter opinion. Funny, the hair was distracting me, too, in the "Making of" show. ;-) The sons weren't impressing me either, but I didn't see scenes of any length to judge enough.

Any Potter Heads here? I've just come home from watching HP3 and need to cry my heart out to someone. I'm so disappointed I can't believe it. I hated it, my kid hated it, and my husband hated it even more. So did all those people who walked out of the theatre in the middle of it. This was once again the classic situation of having had to watch a beloved book being butchered. I found myself wishing I never read the book, so I might enjoy the movie more, but it would've been no use: both my hubby and son - who never read the book - were totally confused. So many things were changed, so many didn't make sense, the whole outlook of the film so alien, the music absolutely unremarkable, the pace so fast and confusing you get dizzy... Never before in my life I loved a movie's trailer and hated the movie itself. How strange. Okay, I'm off to someplace quiet now, where I can cry my heart out without shame. Bloody hell...

SPOILER!!!!!!!! The Prisoner of Azkaban (Ildiko) Bloody hell... My husband and I saw it last night, also..... all we did on the way home was voice the same feelings you have expressed. I had to wake him up three ( count them, 3, times). There was absolutely no continuity in the story-it looked as though they shot scenes independently of the book and then edited them together with no rhyme or reason. I thought Gary Oldman's part of Sirius Black seemed to be from another plot, and they completely forgot about connecting Professor Snape with Remus, Sirius,Peter and Harry's father(can't remember his name. They didn't explain why Snape showed up at the tree or how he had been helping Remus cover up his "ailment". They gave very scant background on the group's past together. I, too, read the book and thought it very well done. I went in expecting the movie to be amazing since every review I read stated it was the best of the three. I heartily disagree!!!!

SPOILER!!!!!! The Prisoner of Azkaban We told both our son and daughter(adults), independently, to save their money and wait for the rental if they feel they must see it. ET in Professor Trelawny's role was under utilized in comparison to the role in the book-a waste for ET. Hagrid's part was, likewise, underplayed. I hope they don't make a movie of The Goblet of Fire if this is the best they can produce without Columbus. I have read that, also, and will be sorely disappointed. Now I must finish my current reading, and start The Order of the Phoenix to salvage my regard for Rowling. She should be very upset with this rendering of her excellent work- they didn't even bring out the lessons to be learned.

And I do remember seeing Julie Walters listed in the credits,while not recalling her in the movie...I suppose I was so discombobulated during the film I missed her. Or am I just totally discombobulated?

(Evelyn) But to give them their due, Vivien did get a huge acknowledgement at the end. After twenty years of seemingly being invisible to the establishment. Better late than never, I suppose. At least he was still alive when they finally gave him recognition.

How odd that this Potter film is pleasing most of the critics? The Miami Herald says it "sparkles with magic, wit -- finally". "Third time's the charm" and praises the director. On another note, I saw Raising Helen last night and was surprised at how good it was.

(Moon)The Miami Herald says it "sparkles with magic, wit -- finally". "Third time's the charm" and praises the director. Alfonso Cuaron; that's the only reason I'm going to see it.

(Moon)How odd that this Potter film is pleasing most of the critics? In his column, Jeff Wells derided it the "swooning-over-Alfonso syndrome." Some of my son's friends saw it last night and basically said the same things that Ildi and Bonnie are saying. Thank God Colin didn't play Sirius; apparently he doesn't show up until about 90 minutes in. There'd be no living with us.;-)

"Can we talk?? Those bastards cut me out! A shandeh un a charpeh . . ." How Shrek 2 has been redubbed for the UK market By Leslie Felperin The Indpendent 04 June 2004 When Shrek 2 opens here in July, British viewers will see a different version from the one showing in American cinemas. No, there won't be an extended, extra-violent climax, � la the "House of Blue Leaves" sequence in the Japanese cut of Kill Bill Vol. 1. Nor will there be bonus explicit footage of Shrek and Fiona playing Pin the Tail On the Donkey for a "European" cut, in the style of The Man Who Fell to Earth. This is a children's film, for heaven's sake. No, Shrek 2's changes for the UK market are small but significant. Two of the characters have been revoiced for British prints, so that American celebrities doing walk-on (or should we say, "talk-on"?) parts have been replaced by British ones. The first switch involves Ugly Sister 2 (above), an obvious man in drag who runs the dive where Fiona's treacherous father goes to hire Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas) to kill Shrek (Mike Myers). In the US version, Ugly Sister 2 is voiced by the CNN talk show host Larry King, whose gruff, grizzled tones are instantly recognisable to Americans, who see him grilling celebrities and politicians nightly on Larry King Live. UK viewers, however, will hear instead the distinctive, but decidedly less gruff, Jonathan Ross. Given that Ross, far from being a serious journalist, is famous for lisping and occasionally wearing skirts, the gag gains a very different kick. Perhaps Jeremy Paxman said no. This swap is at least more understandable than the later one, when the British showbiz reporter Kate Thornton replaces Joan Rivers in the role of The Red Carpet Reporter. As most Brits (however benighted) know, Rivers is the grande dame of trash talking, a 70-year-old former Borscht Belt comedienne whose stand-up material predates the French Revolution and whose face has been lifted more times than a Concorde flap. Every year, on Oscar night, she trawls the carpet outside the Academy Awards ceremony, caustically reviewing the frocks of the famous and dishing out insults. That's why her appearance in Shrek 2 - the character is even modelled to look like her - is one of the funniest moments in the American version. Plus, there's no mistaking her throaty, Brooklyn cackle. Thornton, on the other hand, with her giggly, girlish pipes, only works as a joke in the film (and a weak one at that) if you know that it's her doing the voice. And, sorry Kate, most people won't. Perhaps it's carping to single out the weaknesses of the voice substitutions, given that Shrek 2 is, by and large, hilarious, although perhaps a shade less charming and fresh than the first instalment. Whether the Ross and Thornton substitutions enhance or detract from the film as whole is ultimately less interesting than the fact that they are there in the first place. In a world of ever-increasing homogenisation and globalised cultural product, the attempt to redo bits of a movie to make it funnier for a specific market shows, if not a laudable sort of sensitivity then, at the very least, sound business sense. The quick-fire, wilfully anachronistic, pop-culture-savvy humour of the Shrek franchise draws mainly on American references to begin with - one could argue that these additions go some way to redressing the balance. Given that all cartoons are eventually dubbed for foreign territories, using different voice actors in cameo roles for the UK version is just taking it a shade further. A source close to the film explains the decision, "was just seen as a fun opportunity for markets that don't normally get the chance to use local talent to participate, albeit for a couple of lines of dialogue only." The English-language versions for Australia, New Zealand and South Africa will do the same. It's as if we've come full circle, back to the earliest days of sound cinema when different versions of the same film were made for different countries using the same script, sets and costumes, but in some cases entirely different actors. Stars are integral to marketing a film, but with a cartoon like Shrek, the distributors are forced to think locally. It now looks quite canny of the producers to have cast Banderas as Puss in Boots, not just because his spot-on timing is one of the film's highlights, but also because he can do the Spanish-language dubbing himself. And if another actor is doing the voice of Donkey for all of Latin America, audiences there don't much care if Eddie Murphy was in the US version or not. Incidentally, the guy who does voice Donkey, the Mexican comedian Eugenio Derbez, dubs nearly all of Murphy's films for this market (in Shrek 2, so I'm told, he sounds like "Donkey on speed"). He even came to Cannes for the film's premiere, along with the Japanese actress who voices Fiona and the Norwegian actor who does Shrek, among others. Perhaps the most pressing questions of all are this: will the Japanese laugh at Princess Fiona having a Justin Timberlake poster in her bedroom if Cameron Diaz isn't doing her voice? And does that Norwegian actor who plays Shrek do the Nordic equivalent of Mike Myers's atrocious Scottish accent? Now there's a case where redubbing might actually improve a film...

Sorry to hear HP3 wasn't up to snuff for some. :-( I own, but haven't read the books yet. I still thought the first 2 had scenes that went on way too long and the movies were too long in general...like the first 2 LOTRs. In all of these, I was enjoying them mostly, but by the end I couldn't wait til they were over. They had in essence, overstayed their welcome with me, esp with those freakin' long scenes of Quidditch matches. Actually, I said the same thing in the last 20 mins of ROTK, too. I don't need every nuance of the book in the film, esp from a long book. The only consistent criticism of HP3 from critics and moviegoers is that there is some disappointment that somethings were left out. One told me about the backstory about the map and the people involved that I think indeed would have been very interesting to include. But overall, I didn't feel I missed much. My biggest question was why the Dementors were supposed to be guarding the school, but seemed to be dangerous to everyone, esp Harry. I loved the pace, the humor, and the changing and developing relationships between the kids the most. For those who read the book and wonder the reasoning behind the storyline, this week's Entertainment Weekly with HP on the cover has a story about the choices made by the director and writer on what was included and thrown out.

(Me) The only consistent criticism of HP3 from critics and moviegoers is that there is some disappointment that somethings were left out. I meant to specify that this is what I've seen and heard from people myself, not as a general assumption.

(Bonnie) She (J.K. Rowling) should be very upset with this rendering of her excellent work... I find it unbelievable, but she called it the best of the three. ***SPOILERS*** I thought the movie over while trying to forget what I read in the book, but even this way I find myself disappointed. Since I liked the first 2 movies I find myself unable to deal with the whole new look of the 3rd one. Nothing looks like before, the look of Hogwarts is different, the whole layout of the castle and the surrounding area is different, so is the Hogwarts train, and the way the kids are dressed (Where are the uniforms? Witches and wizards in muggle clothes all the time?). The new Dumbledore sounds like he is reading lines, and there isn't a hint of wisdom neither in his look not his voice. The Dursleys are flat and unfunny, and the musical score, oh, that beautiful score I learned to expect from John Williams..., what happened? At the end I would've been happy with only a few seconds of the familiar HP tune, but didn't even get as much as I heard in the trailer. It was probably made for the trailer only, darn them. Can you imagine watching Indiana Jones without the "Indy theme", with a totally different music? That's what it felt like. Looked and sounded all alien. I'll have to go see it again in a few days and see if I will warm to it. Maybe I just had too high expectations. But I don't think so. I'm sad. Very sad.

Bonnie) She (J.K. Rowling) should be very upset with this rendering of her excellent work... (Ildi) I find it unbelievable, but she called it the best of the three. In that EW article I mentioned, they say she had input into the changes and nixed some. He wanted to change a lot of things he didn't. It also says they left out some of the backstory about the map as they felt it would fit better in a future movie. You should check that article out. I'm actually fascinated by our polar opposite reactions. Many of the things you disliked is what I loved about it.... I've only seen the first 2 once, when they came out, and apparently I had no clue that the scenery had changed because all I focused on was how beautiful it all was, esp when HP was flying on the hippogriff, and I waited to read the credits to see where it was filmed (and as I suspected, there was some in Scotland). I have no opinion on the Dursleys or the clothes. None of that mattered to me apparently. I felt Dumbledore was different, but I didn't expect to just love him. I figured there'd be an adjustment period. He was in it so little comparatively anyway, much to my surprise. I think he'll grow into it and make it his own. (What will you do if and when they have to change the kids? ;-O) And funny too, I remarked to my friend during the movie that I *loved* the music (not having a clue who had done it), was considering getting the soundtrack , and also waited for that info in the credits, too. Truthfully, I couldn't tell you what the "familiar" HP tune is. But if I was as invested in HP as I have been with Indiana Jones and as familiar with "his" music, I might feel the same way. Along the same theme, though I hadn't read BJD prior to seeing the movie, I had high expectations of it just from the trailer. Turns out I found it to be a fairly mediocre rom-com and couldn't figure why a couple of friends, including a guy, liked it so much (I hadn't "discovered" Colin yet, despite seeing several of his movies). The thing that struck me most about it was how wonderfully HG had toned up after breaking up with EH. ;-) Well, good luck with another viewing if you go.

Found another interview with Helen Fielding. This one is in Alibi, a free newspaper that is as liberal as the ABQJournal is conservative. I like the artwork and just noticed that in the drawing of Helen she is wearing Bridget's necklace. Seems Helen has coined new phrases with this book as well. "Mentionitis" is me to a T.:-) http://www.alibi.com Click on the headline to go to the article and artwork.

Wasn't "mentionitis" in EOR? One of the things that fueled her jealousy of Rebecca, if I recall right.

Just watching the Tonys and noticed that Scarlett J sure has lost a heap of weight. I never thought she needed to although she wasn't as thin as some out there. Now she has joined the ranks.

Sorry Moon about David Leveaux. :-( Didn't HJ look stunning in that pinstripe suit?! And that tux?! Yum! Nice save with the mic in his number. And how hysterical he was with the audience participation part with SJP! Did you tape that Karen? I might have to go see his show again, though ignore the mediocre story. Wonder what it was like for all the other actors in the Lead Actor category have their names announced as nominees knowing there was *zero* chance of them winning. Takes the pressure off, I suppose. Saw Essie Davis interviewed on local red carpet show. Looked considerably younger and prettier than I have ever seen her anywhere. What was up with SJ's hair? :-/ I didn�t get past that to notice the weight, or the dress come to think of it. Helen Mirren looked about 15 years older. Kevin Kline is coloring his hair�maybe for a role. What an upset by Avenue Q! It was pretty much consensus Wicked would win, though Ave Q was definitely the only other choice. I think Big River didn't get enough credit. Phenomenal performances with the sign language. It was *very* imaginative staging. Doesn't Harvey Fierstein sound more and more like Jack Klugman without benefit of surgery? Why do they cut to audience shots when things are happening on stage? Like when Carol Channing came out with LL Cool J. ______________________________________________ And now for something completely different ;-)..... While surfing the net, I came upon this gossip site�. http://www.geocities.com/mnussitch/gossip.html It has links to a couple of others. While ODB is not listed, several of his co-stars are....HG (pretty funny), ET, RZ, MD, HGm, AR, BZ, JA, GP, RE. SJ only mentioned as reference in Benecio Del Toro�s entry, though she may be added if this person saw the item I saw about her the other day. In the feud section after the individuals, it lists, "Rupert Everett vs Colin Firth (They just don't seem to get along)" I found these interesting too.... "Peter O'Toole vs Michael Caine (O'Toole agrees with Richard Harris that Caine frittered his talent away with booze)." Maybe from before he did so many great things? "Alan Rickman vs John Malkovich (JM, that pud, insulted AR's acting ability)" Some pretty *in*-teresting stuff I have never heard about quite a few people. Some is old news, well known, has been written (and confirmed by the subject) in interviews and auto/biographies. Found Tom and Nicole's, Sharon Stone�s, and Kevin Spacey's *quite* amusing. Harrison Ford's and Cameron Diaz's interesting for Lost in Translation info. And in other news�..how 'bout that JLo and Marc Anthony. Maybe 3rd time's a charm. :-(

oh, linda, linda, i missed your birthday last month ! oh, lizza, lizza, it is yours today !! so, that makes two occasions to celebrate. please accept this sincere apology as a birthday prezzie linda. and lizza, it's your special day today, enjoy yourself. animatronicolin 3.1, he just can't help it now, can he ? sorry, pix were too tempting, i just couldn't resist...

Oh my, the littlest diva strikes again....from the NY Post Page Six: June 7, 2004 -- SCARLETT Johanssen needs her space. While the star was preparing to meet the crowds gathered at the Gansevoort Hotel for the launch of Calvin Klein's new fragrance the other night, she had an officious minder scramble in the elevator and tell the operator to clear it out. "Scarlett wants to be alone," the minder said, getting off at the 11th floor where Johanssen was hiding. "We need this elevator empty for her!" The cab was dutifuly cleared out and Johanssen rode alone to go see Big Boi perform.

Thanks for the article, Caribou. Helen Fielding's way with words are what draws me. Certainly not the plot in this case. Anyway, I remember having liked Undercover Bitch a lot. Maybe I'll skim through again if others are going to be reading it now. Re: gossip site. Will have to peruse later. Thanks Dorine. ************** And now moving along to one of my raisons d'etre: critiquing awards shows! ;-) After seeing the musical production numbers, I was hoping for Avenue Q to triumph over the heavily favored and thoroughly mundance looking Wicked. AQ looked very clever. Loved how Hugh got a standing O when he won. He absolutely deserved it and he *was* the entire Broadway season. I'd bet everyone there knew it too. Poor Sarah Jessica. ;-) Nicole Kidman is probably counting her blessings that Peter/Hugh didn't haul her up there to be mortified. But it was funny. RZ looked good (and wasn't a stick insect as one would expect by this time), as well as Sigourney Weaver. Scarlett? The hair, Louisa, the hair! The dress was nice, but I couldn't get past the hair. Destroyed it all for me. It's also apparent that there can't be any rehearsal for the presenters, as so many of the non-Broadway types (who had no place on stage) butchered people's names. As their nominations were announced, you could see them cringe. Among the true lowlights of the evening: NK's dress (though not nearly as bad as the costume shop number she wore to the GGs) and how Mary J. Blige sang "What I Did for Love." I found it painful to listen to and I bet I could've randomly picked any person from the audience (or backstage surely!) and he/she could've done better.

(Karen)I was hoping for Avenue Q to triumph over the heavily favored and thoroughly mundance looking Wicked. AQ looked very clever. I didn't see Ave Q, but I did see WICKED and it was clever. Unfortunately they selected a scene that was dull...but featured Idina Menzel who won Best Actress. Methinks it was contrived. Scarlett Johanson's dress was stunning...but the hair! I bet a Soho hairdresser talked her into it.(I saw similar types in the neighborhood 2 weeks ago.) And "Carmela's " was done by a nursing home beautician. Well -at- least -he- was- nominated- dept: Simon Russell-Beale B'way debut wasn't as stellar as I had forecasted. Perhaps in a more intelligble play. "Jumpers" brilliant, but not a crowd pleaser...I found the plot a nightmare. But that says a lot more about me than about the play.

(Evelyn) I found the plot a nightmare. But that says a lot more about me than about the play. You and a lot of other people from what I've read. Re: Carm's hair, LOL!...must be a do she had to go to some swanky Carribean islands. Just read in Page Six today she spent $20,000 taking six friends for a week to some resort owned by Keith Richards(?), or something like that. Guess I'll have to check out Wireimage for Scarlett's dress since I was so distracted by the hair.

and it was clever. Unfortunately they selected a scene that was dull...but featured Idina Menzel who won Best Actress. Am not a fan of "spectacle" type shows, which owe more to makeup, aerodynamics and hydraulics, and smoke-making machines than to witty dialogue and lyrics. As for singing, I thought Idina Menzel sounded more like she was shreiking at the top of her lungs. Was there a melody to it? Were there lyrics? Dunno, couldn't tell for all the shreiking. Check out this recap by BBC News: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/arts/3782869.stm Let's see, was it about the winners, the plays, Broadway? No. It was about gossip and politics. ;-)

Re: Carm's hair Saw it before, when the entire Soprano's cast did Letterman's Top 10 List. A classic BTW.

"Meanwhile , back in the city......listening...dreaming of Lizza, waiting for me at the bottom of the stairs in the lobby".... HAPPY BIRTHDAY , LIZZA With apologies to Richard Greenberg.

From Variety: http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=1948&ncid=1990&e=9&u=/variety/20040606/va_th_ne/tony_lives_on__avenue_q As a telecast, this year's Tonys wasn't the snappiest of award shows. It opened on an appealing if odd note, with host Jackman high-kicking his way through "One Night Only" from "Dreamgirls," accompanied by the three girl-group trios currently on Broadway (from "Caroline, or Change," "Hairspray" and "Little Shop of Horrors"). They were subsequently joined by, apparently, everyone on Broadway who wasn't actually in the audience, with the Anatevkans from "Fiddler on the Roof" looking downright bizarre as they stood on the sidelines singing the disco pastiche number while Rockettes cavorted glitzily beside them. Unfortunately, Jackman's later, pelvis-twisting number from "Boy From Oz," replete with lewd interplay with Sarah Jessica Parker, came across as rather messy -- and tacky, too. Most of the other musicals fared better, though, as always, the simpler presentations tended to come across more cleanly, notably Pinkins singing her big aria from "Caroline, or Change." (The inclusion of Tony Bennett (news) and Mary J. Blige, singing "Lullaby of Broadway" and "What I Did for Love," respectively, in their distinctive styles, seemed a little random.) The Tonys' ongoing search to find a proper way to showcase the play and play revival nominees certainly will go on: The decision to have Brian Stokes Mitchell and Laura Linney standing by odd assortments of gewgaws meant to represent the nominees while giving brief descriptions of the plays was a trifle bizarre (there was a little suitcase and a stuffed animal from "Frozen," a wee dining table and chairs for "The Retreat From Moscow"; go figure). But there were bright spots: Cute interplay between Jackman and Rod from "Avenue Q" (on the arm of John Tartaglia, of course); the positively freakish pairing of presenters LL Cool J and Carol Channing (or a very skinny drag queen wearing the late Swifty Lazar's eyeglasses); Martin Short's witty speech: "A musical is only as good as its director; same goes for the CIA"; "Directing a musical is not easy, but if you cast it properly, there's usually someone in the chorus who is." [Ed note: Funniest of the night IMO] A theater-biz in-joke found Donna Murphy trying to give nightclub fliers to Shubert topper Gerald Schoenfeld, Jujamcyn's Rocco Landesman and (why?) Liz Smith in the intro to the "Wonderful Town" number. And the telecast concluded on an up note, as everyone involved with "Avenue Q" swamped the stage of Radio City in their excitement, leaving presenter Nathan Lane (news) looking bewildered, Tony at the ready, waiting for someone to take the thing off his hands.

Movie pass gets younger teens into R-rated movies By AP BLOOMINGTON, Ill. -- Still weeks shy of her 16th birthday, Sydni Norris caught the R-rated war epic "Troy" on the big screen last month while her parents stayed home. The teen-ager's ticket around the rating system's age limit was a parent-approved pass card that has started a debate over convenience vs. parental responsibility and raised fears that the government might jump in to settle the dispute. With the new R-card, supporters say, parents can sign off on movies for their kids without the time and expense of chaperoning them. GKC Theatres rolled out the card last fall in parts of its 22-city chain in Illinois and three other Midwest states. The card only works for the R-rating, which requires children under 17 to be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. "I like it because now we don't have to wait until they come out on video," said Norris, a high school junior whose parents had to accompany her and sign for the $2 photo ID card. Critics argue that the cards amount to parents handing the delicate decision about what movies are appropriate to their kids, a shift they say violates the intent of the motion picture industry's voluntary rating system. "All R-rated films are not alike. It is the parents' responsibility to make specific judgments about R films -- and wrong to give a blanket endorsement to all," said Jack Valenti, president and CEO of the Motion Picture Association of America, which issues movie ratings. GKC, the nation's 15th largest theater chain with 255 screens, is the only theater network in the nation offering the card, said John Fithian, president of the National Association of Theater Owners. Some opponents fear that leaving movie choices to kids could taint the ratings system, which has been voluntarily enforced by theaters since 1968. They say that could open the door to government regulation that would stifle creativity and experimentation in film making. "If parents lose faith in the system, the first thing they'll ask is 'What are our recourses?' Then, we could start hearing from every politician that wants to make a name for himself in the name of family values," said Dann Gire, president of the Chicago Film Critics Association. GKC has issued about 700 R-cards and plans to offer them throughout the chain by the end of the year, said James Whitman, the company's director of operations and marketing. Whitman said he came up with the idea after parents complained that they wanted to let their kids see R-rated movies but didn't want to sit through the films themselves. He said GKC encourages parents to give the cards to kids only after approving a movie. "From what I can tell, the people who have them like them and the parents are trying to use them responsibly. We're not being inundated with kids whose parents are giving them access to everything that comes on the screen," Whitman said. Fithian, whose 500-member theater owners association includes GKC, thinks the cards invite abuse. "The R-card is a way for parents to abdicate all responsibility in the entertainment choices of their children," he said. Joyce Needham of Peoria disagrees, saying she discusses every movie "before and after" when the 16-year-old grandson she's raising uses his R-card. With or without a card, she said, kids will find a way to get what they want, such as renting videos or sneaking into R-rated movies. "I just think communication is the answer and trusting the child," Needham said. "If you can discuss what's going on in this world, you're better off than letting them find a way to do it on their own." Motion picture and theater owners associations are pressing GKC to abandon the program. The Chicago Film Critics Association is considering a proposal to formally oppose R-cards, Gire said. "What it is an easier way for them to sell tickets to kids," said the father of two daughters, ages 16 and 20. Whitman said the company has no plans to back away. "You can't ever say never," he said. "But at this point we're firmly in support of it."

Soemthing that looks fairly promising, amidst all the reruns: 5ive Days to Midnight By Michael R. Farkash Bottom line: The issues of destiny and love are ably explored in a compelling, greatly entertaining new miniseries. (9-11 p.m. Monday, June 7 9-10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, June 8-10, Sci Fi Channel) Suspenseful and compelling, this new miniseries thriller from the Sci Fi Channel is the best kind of science fiction drama, focusing on character and delivering a roller-coaster plot. Love, murder and fate are central issues in this thoroughly entertaining five-hour production starring Timothy Hutton and Randy Quaid. With fine performances and a strong central mystery -- a man must solve his own "murder" before it actually happens -- "5ive Days to Midnight" seems destined to grab viewers' imagination. J.T. Neumeyer (Hutton), a university physics professor, is leading a quiet life with his daughter, Jesse (Gage Golightly, "A Christmas Carol"), and new girlfriend Claudia Whitney (Kari Matchett, "Angel Eyes"). On the 10th anniversary of his wife's death, while visiting her grave site, J.T. and his daughter discover a briefcase left for the physics professor. Inside is a police report, crime scene photos and newspaper clippings showing that the professor will be murdered in five days. Hutton's character figures the message from the future is a hoax, until details revealed in the file begin to come true. His life unravels as the people closest to him reveal dangerous secrets and J.T. races against the clock to forestall his own apparent homicide. The absolute horror of trying to escape one's fate gives this production some of the elements of a Greek tragedy. Visual effects spring in both sparingly and shrewdly, in one case showing, imaginatively, the mental prowess of J.T. and Jesse. The characters are solid and appealing. Hutton gives himself fully to the premise, playing disbelief and tender love for his daughter Jesse and, under director Michael Watkins, memorably portraying the ambivalence of a man whose romantic interest -- the enigmatic Claudia -- may have a dangerous agenda. Golightly as Jesse is ingenuous and inspired, playing an intelligent, thoughtful young girl who tries to help her father. Matchett as femme-maybe-fatale Claudia plays the role well. Quaid as Detective Irwin Sikorski is well-cast as a strong, thoroughly believable investigator. The script calls for him and other players to accept too quickly the idea of a message from the future, but we go along with this premise. After all, the series is booked on the Sci Fi Channel, and hey, we see the briefcase materialize from thin air at the graveyard. As a physics professor, Hutton's character should be able to figure out more of the possibilities instead of relying so much on quirky student genius Carl Axelrod (Hamish Linklater, "American Dreams"). Dramatic stakes rise as the men's ideas conflict and Carl decides that it's wrong to cheat fate. The fascinating idea could have been explored a little more -- will the universe itself unravel if J.T. refuses to follow his "destiny"? It's an idea as old as the Bible and Greek mythology, and a concept that never loses its fascination as a storytelling device, rendered here with gusto and great power.

For my dear Lizza And from your friends in Pilsen: a feliz cumplea�os! And, lastly, from your special friends who are missing you:

Lizza, darling, won't you join me for some birthday bubbly? This birthday note entitles the bearer to one back scrub. Happy Birthday, Lizza, and a happy, Firth-filled year to you!

Lizza, I ab-sol-ute-ly want to wish you a Happy Birthday!

Dearest Lizza, I have just been used as an escort and not treated very well. I know that as your escort, I can count on you to mishimoto with me all night long in a very caring way. Happy Birthday Lizza!

(Dorine), Sorry Moon about David Leveaux. :-( I know. But didn't he look cute? He got his haircut. It's nice when David comes up and everyone thinks of me. ;-) I thank you! The Tony's: HJ was great, muy sympatico. The direction was poor as stated. LL Cool J with Carol Channing vvg as was Martin Short. I too thought Wicked would take the big one. Sarah JP came off badly, she should have just played along. Scarlet was silly and Renee? If I have to see her pout one more time! Work on a new face sweetie. Of course, my biggest disappointment was not getting to see enough of my sweetie David. ;-D

sorry, pix were too tempting, i just couldn't resist... ROTF Sophie! A wonderful display:-))

Colin has been traveling the world, searching up and down and from the 17th century to the 21st, trying to find you the perfect birthday present. Sadly, the only whisk he could locate was this bizarre item Tanneke has been using. Would you accept a soulful, smouldering gaze in its stead? As Vermeer might have said: Van harte gefeliciteerd met je verjaardag, Lizza!

Marketing pays off....shades of SIL winning the Oscar June 8, 2004 'Avenue Q' Tony Coup Is Buzz of Broadway By JESSE McKINLEY hen "Avenue Q" won the Tony Award for best musical on Sunday night, just how big a surprise was it? Well, even the technicians inside Radio City Music Hall apparently thought that another show, the popular hit "Wicked," was going to win. In the moments after the announcement that "Avenue Q" had won, two giant video screens inside the hall read, "Best Musical: Wicked." Embarrassed Tony officials said the mistake was a result of a "technical glitch," but you could hardly blame them for it. For weeks "Wicked" had been considered a prohibitive favorite to win the award, the evening's top prize. The show, after all, had all the elements of a winner: box office success, respectable reviews, a spring 2005 national tour. Instead, industry analysts found themselves trying to explain how "Avenue Q," a modest musical with singing puppets playing in a small Broadway theater, had pulled off what many in the business were calling one of the biggest upsets in Tony history. (Unfortunately for Tony organizers, if preliminary television ratings are to be believed, very few viewers got in on the drama.) There even seemed to be a sense of shock inside the producing office for "Avenue Q," where some were nursing hangovers yesterday from a long night celebrating the show's three victories, which included awards for best score (the show's music and lyrics) and best book (its dialogue and structure). "I was absolutely prepared to win best score and have a great party and say job well done," said Jeffrey Seller, one of the show's lead producers. "Then after we won for best book, I said, 'I think we might win the big one.' " The consensus around Broadway was that the show had run a clever campaign to woo voters, including full-page newspaper advertisements and a pizza party for out-of-town voters. (The Tonys are voted on by 735 theater professionals and journalists nationwide, of whom perhaps 80 to 90 reside outside the New York area.) The producers sent out hundreds of promotional CD's, with a new song, "Rod's Dilemma," written especially for the Tony race, about a puppet voting in an election. The campaign, which one production member estimated cost about $300,000, also leaned heavily on political imagery: promotional buttons were handed out at the theater, and the box office was decorated to resemble a campaign headquarters. "We were definitely running behind, so we wanted to remind people that we were a viable choice," said Drew Hodges, the creative director of SpotCo, the advertising company that devised the ads. "And we wanted to keep everything in the tone of the show, which is irreverent and contemporary." The motto of the "Q" campaign, "Vote Your Heart," seemed to many to be remarkably blunt. The message: vote for the little guy instead of "Wicked," which, with a $14 million budget and weekly sales of more than $1 million had been given, fairly or not, an air of blockbuster invincibility. By comparison "Avenue Q," playing in the 796-seat Golden Theater, generally grosses about $400,000 a week but has a much lower running cost. Mr. Seller, who made a fortune producing "Rent" on Broadway, said the campaign was merely trying to remind voters of "Avenue Q," which transferred from a small Off Broadway house, the Vineyard Theater on Union Square, to Broadway last summer. "I think we were able to get people thinking about 'Avenue Q' again," he said. "We felt if we could get them to think about it again and see it again, we'll have a shot." Other theories and explanations were also being floated, including that perhaps voters had decided "Wicked,' with an advance of more than $20 million, did not need the victory as much as "Avenue Q." The result also seemed to give rest, for the moment at least, to the notion that the road voters and their allies ? a bloc of approximately 150 votes ? somehow control the Tony outcome. "Wicked," after all, which starts a tour next March, is expected to be a much bigger earner than "Avenue Q," which is a quirkier (read less mainstream) show and won't hit the road till fall 2005. For his part, David Stone, the lead producer of "Wicked," said he never believed that his show was a slam-dunk to win best musical. "We were never as certain about the outcome as the pundits were," he said, offering congratulations to "Avenue Q." Mr. Stone added that his show, playing the 1,773-seat Gershwin Theater, had added an eight-week block of tickets yesterday and subsequently sold more than $1 million in tickets by noon, presumably on the strength of its televised production number. "We're going to be here for a long time," he said. "Avenue Q," meanwhile, was also having a record day at the box office, bringing in an estimated $500,000 in sales by 2 p.m. The show recouped its $3.5 million investment in April. Not all the numbers were good, however; an official for CBS, which broadcast the awards show, confirmed that its Nielsen ratings hit yet another all-time low, despite a starry roster of presenters. Preliminary national ratings were a dismal 4.7 and 8 share, which means about 6.6 million viewers, 8 percent of the Sunday night audience, were watching. Last year's broadcast attracted a little less than eight million viewers, itself a record low. Elsewhere several other shows were left wondering what the Tonys ? or lack thereof ? would mean for their futures. "Wonderful Town," the revival of the 1953 musical, won only one Tony, for choreography, and lost in the one category ? best revival of a musical ? that might have helped ticket sales. "Caroline, or Change," the civil rights musical by Jeanine Tesori and Tony Kushner, also won only one Tony, for Anika Noni Rose as best supporting actress in a musical. There were also a few stories lost in the "Avenue Q" hoopla, including a large number of first-time winners, among them Idina Menzel, who gave "Wicked" its high point in the evening, winning the race for best actress in a musical over stiff competition. Still, the moment belonged to "Avenue Q." "They went the distance," Mr. Seller said of the voters. "They voted their hearts."

Sorry, I must ask you to leave, it's Lizza's birthday and we're going to party all night long, actually.

Sophie, thanks so much for our Mr. Brown. LOL, looks like he should be auditioning for Lord of the Dance;-)

Now I know how you girls feel when trying to find the right outfit for a special occasion. A "birthday suit," if you will, for this occasion. Tried this first, but it�s not quite what I wanted. This seemed a bit too.....too..... So I thought maybe this..... But it seemed a bit bright and I didn�t want to outshine the birthday girl. What's a guy to do besides strip down to the bare essentials and say....Happy Birthday, dearest, loveliest Lizza!

I just wanted to let all the DDs out there that an cosmological event not seen since 1882 is occuring today. Venus will be passing in front of the Sun today in rare eclipse-like fashion. Of course, one should not look directly at the Sun (v.b. idea), but through welders glass, one will actuall be able to see Venus as a black spot moving across the Sun. The viewing will be best for those in Europe, north and east Africa, and Asia (except far east), where the entire transit will be visable throught the day. As Earth rotates, the Sun will set before the transit ends from Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia and easternmost Asia, so these regions will miss egress. Similarly, locations in western Africa, eastern North America, the Caribbean and northern South America will find the transit already in progress as the Sun rises. As a result, these locales will miss ingress. In contrast, none of the transit will be seen from western North America, the eastern Pacific (including Hawaii), southern South America (Chile and southern Argentina) and Antarctica. Western states in the U. S. which miss the transit include: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Montana, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Don't miss this once in a lifetime event! http://sunearth.gsfc.nasa.gov/sunearthday/2004/index_vthome.htm

Ladies, thanks so much for all your good birthday wishes and fun yesterday brought such a smile to my face ;-)) Evelyn Loved my Donmar memory..... when I was close enough to run my fingers thro' those curls and of course the lobby! ;-) Karen How lovely to see my friends again in Pilsen and of course Walgreens!!! Luckily ODB doesn't shop there:-) Mari Mmmmm lots of birthday bubbly in the bubbles, Cheers ;-) Delicious. Tress How did you know my fave pic? The perfect pick, you have the knack. Moon No birthday is complete without ODB's dimples. Thank you Shoshana LOL! I think I'll go for a smouldering Dutch whisking anytime. Sure got me frothy ;-0 Linda Love to party all night long, but only if you all come along;-)) Dorine Hey those fashion stakes ..... birthday suit was soooo fetching! Once again thanks so much .

Lizza! Ding Dang it . .I've been so busy I missed you're b'day!!!! Here's hopin' you got down and funky and had a blast!!!!

Certainly had a blast with your pics Kimberly. Hunk daddy birthdays are the best ;-) Thank you.

Ahh! Mohammed is coming to the Mountain! Ealing Studios too... Far better than another Woodywannabe who shot in London. Inside Move: Allen sets up in London Mon Jun 7, 8:00 PM ET Adam Dawtrey, STAFF LONDON -- Woody Allen is making an extremely rare foray outside New York, as the Gotham-centric helmer readies to shoot his latest movie in London. Details of the project are shrouded in secrecy, but a production office is up and running at Ealing Studios, in West London, with shooting reportedly to start July 12. [Ed note: Could be a problem. Need to get in that all-important vacation time.] Sources said the movie, known only as "Woody Allen Summer Project," is set in London's high society, with Kate Winslet possibly among the cast. Budget is said to be $15 million, although the source of the financing has not been revealed. In his 33-year career as a writer-director, Allen has hardly ever shot a movie substantially outside New York, and even more rarely grappled with storylines that take place outside America. His 1996 pic "Everyone Says I Love You" did include passages in Paris and Venice. His 1992 pic "Shadows and Fog" took place in an unspecified Middle European village, though it was shot Stateside. Before that, his last movie shot and set wholly in Europe was "Love and Death" in 1974. Allen is completing "Melinda and Melinda" for Fox Searchlight.

July would be perfect as Nanny wraps up. He must fight to get role in this. Maybe Woody will want Emma and by association... ;-) Thanks, Karen! Love then idea of Woody doing London.

He must fight to get role in this. I don't think being in a Woody Allen film is so "all that" as it used to be. His last several films haven't done as well, commercially or critically as they used to. But I'm sure it would be great for the experience vs. prestige.

(Dorine), I'm sure it would be great for the experience vs. prestige. That's what I meant. His last great film had Hugh Grant in it. Let's give the other British actor a shot. ;-)

(Moon)July would be perfect as Nanny wraps up Oooh, that's cutting it really close. Almost 0 days down time? But no baby this summer so who knows?

Picked up this charmer from today's Google-alert. I think there might be some out there who can relate... http://readthehook.com/stories/2004/06/10/essayMyGuysTheiotheriMenIn.html ESSAY- My guys: The other men in my life Published June 10, 2004, in issue 0323 of The Hook BY BETH LEVINE FEATUREWELL@FEATUREWELL.COM Don't get me wrong, I adore my husband. Bill is funny, kind, smart, and sexy. At our wedding, we danced our first dance to a song he wrote. Every day, he gets up at dawn to pack lunches for our son and me. When I decide to diet, he's by my side-- cooking the new light meals for us. This guy is a catch. At the end of the day, I don't want anyone else's size-12 Converses under my bed. And yet... I must confess that when I walked down the aisle, I never expected he'd be the only guy in my life. You can't have just one! So here's a toast to my "other men"-- who make life easier, fuller, more exciting, and more fun. The Safe Flirt Carlos is the guy who takes my packages and overnight letters at the post office. Probably all of 23, he's tall and cute with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "Hola, amiga! Where have you been? I've missed you." he shouts whenever I come in. I know he has no plans to make a move, and he knows I know. And so, as he's looking up zip codes for me, we flirt, happily but harmlessly. Remember flirting? Blushing? Giggling? Involuntarily grinning like a Cheshire cat? I speak my bad high school Spanish ("�C�mo est�? M� es buena"). He laughs at my accent, then bids me goodbye with a grin ("Adi�s, chiquita!"). Okay, so I'm old enough to be his moth...um, older sister-- but since when has a little banter become a crime? And besides, with Carlos waiting for me behind the counter, I haven't forgotten to mail a birthday present in three years! My One-man Fan Club "Are you losing weight? ...." You look really sexy today." "That was a great meal." Jeff is my husband's friend, and his wife is my good friend Joanna. Because I'm not his wife, he can be on his best behavior whenever we see each other. Whether it's my looks, my sense of humor, my cooking, or my career, he's always out to boost my ego, and I love it. (Joanna feels the same way about my husband, who is his most friendly and flattering self when in her presence.) Granted, Jeff doesn't have to think up compliments at 6am, when I arise from bed, my hair askew, drool stains on my schlubby pajamas, and my breath smelling like a toxic waste dump. But let's face it, for that, you'd have to give him combat pay. The Computer Guy "John, when I turn on my Mac, why do I get a blinking question mark?" "John, why is my e-mail merging all my letters into one document?" "John, the little thingy is doing that thing again. Can you come over right now?" John-- may his name be forever listed among the exalted-- is the neighborhood computer whiz, who is nice enough to share knowledge and parts (the computer's, not his). He'll be on my Christmas list until the day they pry my mouse out of my cold dead hands. Blasts From the Past My male friends from college are precious. They're nearly the only folks alive who remember me when I was young and stupid-- and thin! No matter how old, fat, or battered by life we become, we'll always see each other as 20-year-olds, full of promise. (Though any sexual tension that once existed between us has vanished, along with most of their hair. And let's face it, if we weren't swept away back when we were awash in teenage hormones, we sure won't succumb now.) When we get together, it's like coming home: We reminisce, catch up, and laugh, never having to explain anything. They just get me. It's the comfort level I have with my husband-- minus any wifely obligation to put on mascara and act like a grown-up. My Smarty-Pants Brother I'd never admit it to his face, but my brother is brilliant. He knows everything about everything. What he doesn't know, he convincingly makes up. He finishes the hardest crosswords, and he explains world events in a way I can almost grasp. And when my 11-year-old son asks me the kind of questions that make my head hurt-- "Where do dreams come from?" "How does hydrogen stick to oxygen in water?"-- I can say, "Let's call Uncle Jonny!" As he confabs with my kid, I finally forgive him for years of dinner-table torment. Fantasy hunks In no particular order: Colin Firth, George Clooney, Denzel Washington, Hugh Jackman, Antonio Banderas. (OK, I'll admit it: Hugh Jackman comes first.) They're smart; they're sexy; and I don't have to deal with their quirks or pick up their dirty laundry. Best of all, when I'm done with them, I just hit Eject. My Personal Shopper "What did you pay for that? Why didn't you call me? I could've gotten you half off!" My husband and I are money morons. Enter Jerold, the dealmaker. Whatever I need-- from long-distance plans to printer cartridges-- he knows where to get it cheaper. He's so hyper, I vibrate just being around him. But I'll never complain, because he's my money savior-- you wouldn't believe the deal he got for us on our heating oil! The Bodyguard Buddy has made it his mission to protect me from this dangerous world. He follows me loyally, throwing himself between me and anyone who seems slightly menacing. When I try to leave, he's devastated; sometimes he cries. Buddy is perfect for me... except that he's a dog. When not guarding me physically-- from postal workers, squirrels, and apparently dangerous neighbors-- he protects my state of mind. If I'm feeling blue, he slobbers me with kisses. And when I awaken at 3am with that world-is-ending anxiety, he curls up close, and his warmth puts me to sleep. That's what I call great in bed. My Younger Man When I learned I was having a son, I thought, a boy? What do I know about boys? It took me 31 years to find a good one to date! I made it my mission to study my child, so as to understand the male mind at all stages. Finally, the secrets of the universe revealed! (An example: You know how a guy says he isn't thinking about anything, even though he's been staring into space for hours and you're sure he's brooding? From Levi, I've learned the truth: He really isn't thinking about anything!) As my sociological scrutiny of the male species continues, Levi, now 11, is meanwhile surviving my cluelessness and turning out fairly normal. I'm confident he'll grow up to be a funny, sensitive, intelligent, unselfish man-- the perfect mix of all the guys in my life! Beth Levine's essays have appeared in Redbook, Woman's Day, Family Circle, the Chicago Tribune, USA Weekend, and Newsday. This one first appeared in Good Housekeeping.

Fantasy hunks ... Best of all, when I'm done with them, I just hit Eject. ROTFLOL!!!!!!!!

(Leslie's Article)Fantasy hunks In no particular order: Colin Firth, George Clooney, Denzel Washington, Hugh Jackman, Antonio Banderas. ........They're smart; they're sexy; and I don't have to deal with their quirks or pick up their dirty laundry. Best of all, when I'm done with them, I just hit Eject Now here's a girl after my own heart! Great list!

(Moon) His last great film had Hugh Grant in it. LOL! Moon, could you please define "great" for me? ;-)

Cute article, Leslie, thanks. Aagree with Beedee--it's a great list! And some news on one of the guys on it; Moon, they're at Como now! Ocean's Twelve Update From Italy Source: Alex Thursday, June 10, 2004 'Alex' has another update from Italy on the Ocean's Twelve production, which he previously said was now shooting scenes at Villa Erba and around Lake Como. The following scene descriptions do contain spoilers; These are the plot of few scenes shot on the lake: - Interior scene between Vincent Cassel & Danny Mendez (ex miss Italy). Should be hot! - Dialogue scene between Cassel (He plays the role of an art dealer) & Clooney. Should be outside Villa Erba. - Speedboat chasing between Matt Damon & Cassel. - A dialogue between Clooney & Julia Roberts. The shooting are due to finish, then someone from the troupe will take some long shots of locations and Lake. Warner Bros. has the sequel scheduled for a December 10 release date.

Small Time Crooks was excellent. Woody's best in a long, long time.

(Mari), And some news on one of the guys on it; Moon, they're at Como now! That's my territory. Alas, I don't usually go till July. I bet George is having a grand time showing off "his lake". (Moon) His last great film had Hugh Grant in it. (Ildi), LOL! Moon, could you please define "great" for me? ;-) (Karen), Small Time Crooks was excellent. Woody's best in a long, long time. Exactly! Who could ever forget that toothpick scene.

Ugh... Lost in Damnation: Did Scarlett Johansson take a wrong turn on the way to a Flock of Seagulls concert and end up at the MTV Movie Awards? Or is she searching for the whip that will complete her naughty maid uniform? The actress slouches into Hollywood fashion infamy in this disastrous design, pairing her apron-like bandeau top with a racer-back yellow tank top and black short-shorts. Shudder. Sadly, despite Scarlett's gorgeous gams, the oddball outfit does not improve when viewed from the rear. And we beg the actress to give her over-processed locks a breather -- they're looking more fried than a bucket of the Colonel's finest � and about as healthy

I vote for hideous, but then again it's fairly appropriate for the MTV crowd. Agree too about her overprocessed hair.

Working Title finds its Darcy Adam Minns in London 11 June 2004 Working Title Films has finally found its Darcy. The UK powerhouse has cast rising British actor Matthew Macfadyen as the arrogant but eligible male lead in its upcoming Jane Austen adaptation Pride And Prejudice. Macfadyen will star opposite Keira Knightley, who plays the central Bennet daughter, Elizabeth. The other Bennet sisters will include The Libertine and Die Another Day's Rosamund Pike as Jane, the oldest, and Jena Malone, the US actress from Cold Mountain, The United States Of Leland and Donnie Darko, as Lydia, the youngest. Macfadyen is best known as the star of hit British TV spy thriller Spooks, which aired successfully in the US as MI-5. Along with starring in high-profile TV productions such as The Project and Warriors, he recently wrapped his first starring role in a feature with In My Father's Den, the story of a disillusioned war reporter. His period credits include his TV debut, Granada Television's Wuthering Heights, and BBC2's recent Anthony Trollope adaptation The Way We Live Now. Shooting on Pride And Prejudice is scheduled to start next month, with Working Title co-chairman Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner producing with Paul Webster. Joe Wright, whose credits include BBC TV mini-series Charles II and Nature Boy, is making his directing debut from a script by Billy Elliot writer Lee Hall and Tulip Fever novelist Deborah Moggach.

Looking into those fine eyes: After writing the letter:

Here's the new Mr. Darcy: Not only is he ugly, but he has bad skin too. The casting director must: 1. Be insane 2. Could find no one else, after every possible real candidate turned it down. This is a real turn-off. :-(

LOL! Nice try Karen. But no cigar. :-(

What I did last night ... ooh, sounds bad. Got to attend The Terminal premiere, then trapped Jason Isaacs into posing and signing some things for us. http://img12.photobucket.com/albums/v36/blisster/TheTerminal_JI7.jpg

(Moon) 2. Could find no one else, after every possible real candidate turned it down. My first vote, though both are plausible and possible. ;-) I like him on MI-5. Maybe if he had a different wig it would help. ;-) Nice pic, Marianne. Me likee! Are his eyes really that blue? How was The Terminal, BTW? Was supposed to go next Thurs, but have a concert instead. Should I switch plans? ;-)

In retrospect about the new Darcy, it could be a very smart move for him potentially as far as getting his name and face out there to a much wider audience. Not just in the UK but globally, regardless of the project, 'cause you know this will get lots of attention when it's released. I don't know how known or popular he is in the UK, but if it's not very, this certainly won't hurt...at least until his performance is seen. Though again, I'm sure he was way down on the totem pole of choices. I will have to see this anyway...must see what KK will do with it. ;-)

LOL, Moon. Go here and let 'em have it: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/film/3797535.stm

Great pic, Marianne, though someone looks cut off on the left side. ;-) Wonder if he's going to make a return to the West Wing. That was fun seeing him there. Go here and let 'em have it: Don't they post the feedback? Will have to keep checking back. I'm real curious as to what they'll get.

I hate to say, but you can get an inkling of how insignificant the new P&P movie will be over here. So far, none of the entertainment news sites has picked up the story. When Brad Pitt's name was bandied about, it was news. Now, it's a costume drama yawner. Even Empire (which is part of the same company as ScreenDaily) hasn't made it a story on its site. The Guardian didn't either. Nothing on the main news wires either.

There was more coverage with KK, so it won't be ignored in the long run I bet.

Nice pic, Marianne. Even Jason Isaacs with a wig would be a better Darcy! (Dorine), In retrospect about the new Darcy, it could be a very smart move for him potentially as far as getting his name and face out there to a much wider audience. It's a great move for him! But he better get ready for lots of critism too. Although, I bet all those male critics that were jealous of "our" Mr. Darcy, might be happy with this horrible one. :-( I want to know who will play Mr. Wickham, he couldn't possibly be this bad. Thanks for the link, Mari.

It's a great move for him! But he better get ready for lots of critism too. He'll be viewed as a TV actor in the US. But he has nothing to lose.

(Moon) Even Jason Isaacs with a wig would be a better Darcy! He's an excellent choice, actually. Shame he's not a tad younger for it.

Variety has it; nice mention of CF. Macfadyen is new Mr. Darcy Thu Jun 10, 8:00 PM ET Adam Dawtrey, STAFF LONDON -- Matthew Macfadyen has been cast in the iconic role of Mr. Darcy opposite Keira Knightley (news)'s Elizabeth Bennet in Working Title's upcoming version of Jane Austen's romantic novel "Pride and Prejudice." This is the biggest movie role yet for the 29-year-old Macfadyen, who played the lead in the BBC spy series "Spooks" (broadcast Stateside as "MI-5"). He recently starred in the Kiwi movie "In My Father's Den," currently in post-production. Also joining the cast are Rosamund Pike (news), as Elizabeth's perfect older sister Jane, and American actress Jena Malone (news) as the trou-blesome youngest sister Lydia. Production of the movie, directed by Joe Wright from a script by Lee Hall and Deborah Moggach, has been brought forward from late August to mid-July. Producers are Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner and Paul Webster. "Pride and Prejudice" is the classic tale of an opinionated young woman and an arrogant, rich snob who overcome their initial antipathy and various other social obstacles to fall in love. Colin Firth (news) became a star by playing Mr. Darcy in the BBC's 1994 TV series of "Pride and Prejudice," a role so imprinted on the public consciousness that it features heavily in Helen Fielding's book "Bridget Jones's Diary," and led to Firth being cast as Mark Darcy in the movie version.

(Dorine) There was more coverage with KK, so it won't be ignored in the long run I bet. Agreed. KK's every breath is being recorded right now. But...depends too if King Arthur is any good. Audiences can be so fickle...she could blow it there and by the time P&P comes out??? I still think it will get press as the release draws near. The new Darcy? He's tolerable I suppose....ya'll know the rest.... ;-)

Rather than compare it to King Arthur, I'd compare it with the coverage of Reese Witherspoon in TIOBE...unless Working Title puts some action and F/X sequences into P&P. ;-)

She's "below-the-radar" right now with Vanity Fair.

Re the "new" Darcy - interesting to say the least . . . quite a job he's taken on and what a challenge to make it his own when it is rather obvious that the image of Colin's performance is so attatched to the role. Reading the comments on the BBC link Mari posted is interesting - the majority of which mentioned Colin's wonderful performance . . wonder if his people have read some of them;) . . . .great demand, strong fan base . .get him some pictures that help him showcase his talent! Dorine my DH and I will be going to the Terminal BAFTA screening on . .Monday . . . awww thought we'd see you there;) Jason Issacs is a cutie . . Jena Malone as Lydia - interesting - I've seen some good work from her when she was younger . . . .but haven't seen her in anything recent things . .

I recognize a few names from the BBC comments. Good job, ladies. Anyway, there's only one thing I'd be looking forward to if/when this movie comes out, a lot of reviews that hold Colin up as the definitive Darcy, instead of the kind of reviews he gets, where he's called HG-lite.

(Kimberly) Jena Malone as Lydia - interesting - I've seen some good work from her when she was younger . . . Did you see Cold Mountain? She was the girl on the ferry (about a two minute part, but impressive). She's also in a film coming out (or out?) called Saved. She's all grown up! I remember seeing her in Bastard Out of Carolina and Contact...she was so wee then. Lydia will be fairly 'light' role for her from what she's done in the past. She'll have to get the accent down though...

Tress - I saw Bastard out of Carolina too and Ellen Foster and was impressed at what such a young thing she was and her range . . . Haven't seen Cold Mountain:( . .will be on my netfilx list

(Karen) Anyway, there's only one thing I'd be looking forward to if/when this movie comes out, a lot of reviews that hold Colin up as the definitive Darcy, instead of the kind of reviews he gets, where he's called HG-lite. Oh! Sorry for the double post, but I think you are right! And...I anticipate an increase in CF's fan base. Once a few have seen the new P&P and hear about the 'definitive' version they'll be renting it...and then you know, it's all a matter of time...CF will work his magic and then....;-)

(Tress) And...I anticipate an increase in CF's fan base. But that's not important to me. I just want to hear/read important critics praising Colin for a change, when they're discussing Macfayden's performance.

And I have this amusing image in my mind of Macfayden having a wife/girlfriend/SO who is a huge P&P fan (and Colin as Darcy fan as well), and the scene plays out like the trial in Miracle on 48th Street, where the DA's son is on the stand and he's being questioned about the existence of Santa Claus. Sorry, but I can't quite explain it all that well. You'd have to be in my mind. ;-)

(Kim) Dorine my DH and I will be going to the Terminal BAFTA screening on . .Monday . . . awww thought we'd see you there;) The other one is Monday, The Terminal on Thurs. Won't be at either. (Kimberly) Jena Malone as Lydia - interesting - I've seen some good work from her when she was younger . . . (Tress) Did you see Cold Mountain? She was the girl on the ferry (about a two minute part, but impressive). Apparently neither she nor the ferry left an impression on me. Can't recall either. But I do remember now that she's in Saved. I actually wanted to see that. Looks funny. Interesting comments on that BBC site. I found amusing... Keira Ubiquitous Knightly I don't see what was wrong in giving the part to Colin Firth. After all, he knows the part- Is there anyone out there who could provide her with a clue? ;-) But Keira Knightley is too attractive and rather bad at acting. He is much more animated than Colin Firth could ever be. Apparently I missed the version where Mr. Darcy is the social butterfly at the balls and skips merrily through the fields. ;-) Am curious if all the people who made comments about having another wet shirt scene realize it's *not* in the book? I thought the comments from the men were interesting, too.

Dorine: Are his eyes really that blue? How was The Terminal, BTW? Was supposed to go next Thurs, but have a concert instead. Should I switch plans? Yes. No. The Terminal was blah, nothing special, more manipulative and boring if that makes sense ... and I'm the type that likes everything especially if the stars of the movie are there. Karen: ...though someone looks cut off on the left side. ;-) Wonder if he's going to make a return to the West Wing. That was fun seeing him there. It was for the better ... we weren't expecting to actually to see the movie with all the celebrities. JI updates his fans on what's going on (and he answered all my Harry Potter questions and he loves to talk about his daughter). He sent this to the moderators of his fan sites: Then I did the West Wing - partly because I get the girl for a change, partly because it's a phenomenal show and just about the only articulate left-of-fascist agenda allowed on mainstream TV in the states and partly because, what the hell...I'm a huuuuge fan of it. I'm in Episode 1 of the new season and, I suppose, it's not inconceivable that I could be back but, to be honest, it was a hell of a lot like hard work for a lazy old film actor like me. They work like dogs till the wee hours then up and at it again - a horrifying shock to the system!