Anyone here a Grobanite? From the Seattle Times--the rest is here: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/sports/2001844257_superbrites27.html ...Anyway, if you're not sure if you're a Grobanite, take this simple test: If you think the highlight of Sunday's Super Bowl will be Kid Rock's halftime performance, run away, dude. If, however, you enjoy movies starring Hugh Grant AND Colin Firth, you just might be a Grobanite.

Editor and Publisher.com: Two Thumbs Down on Movie Blurbing By Allan Wolper (January 13, 2004) -- This is about The Blurbing of America, where film critics are packaged by the film studios, aided by newspaper advertising departments hungry for the full- page ads that are part of huge movie budgets. The salespeople even send out advance copies of their newspaper's reviews or feature stories to studios, to give them extra time to prepare promotional or advertising copy. Or perhaps to warn them that their movie might be panned. For example, The New York Times e-mails its movie reviews to studio publicists three hours before they are posted on the newspaper's Web site. The Times claims that its editorial integrity is not compromised because the reviews are already locked into the printing process, and can't be changed. But the message is clear: the alleged firewall between the newspaper's business and editorial sections has been breached. The arts sections of many big-city newspapers are replete with advertising blurbs which studio ad agencies surgically remove from the critics' reviews. There is evidence that many critics and the publications they work for enjoy the notoriety that those blurbs bring to them. When Rolling Stone interviewed writers for the critic's job that eventually went to Peter Travers, the magazine made it known that it wanted its reviewer to be featured in newspaper ads, according to numerous journalists. The reasoning was obvious: Rolling Stone saw the blurbs as free advertisements for itself, as well as a selling point with studio ad agencies. Travers has made it big in Blurb Journalism, second only to Roger Ebert and Richard Roeper, the "Two Thumbs Up" Guys. Newspaper critics allege the dynamic duo of Ebert & Roeper, both of whom work for the Chicago Sun-Times, are studio-friendly because their syndicated television show and annual Film Festival at Sea are both sponsored by Disney. Those innuendos grate on Ebert. "I'm on the level," he said. "I won The Pulitzer Prize. If you talk to anyone who knows me, they will tell you I am an honest person." He views the criticism of his Disney connection as the reactive rants of writers jealous of his fame and fortune. "We are quoted more than anyone else because we are the most popular movie program in the country," he said, adding, "If a movie is really shitty, we won't review it." Stephen Holden, a New York Times film critic, said that kind of relationship would not be tolerated by his superiors. "That's a clear conflict of interest," Holden told me. "That's dangerous. But that's the world we live in today. Our newspaper would never approve that arrangement." Roeper said Holden doesn't understand the needs of a syndicated television program or the ethical constraints involved. "We are Disney employees, but we don't tout their movies more than anyone else," he said. "In fact, we go out of our way to show movies of other studios on our cruises. If someone is going to syndicate a television program, they are going to have to find a media conglomerate like Disney to sponsor it." The studio publicists, sensitive to the ethical hand-wringing of the critics, routinely call reviewers to get their approval for the blurbs. But that makes those critics part of the promotional process. The advertising rewrites of the reviews are an effective way of negating bad press. The studios were much more up-front during the old days: "The publicists used to send us cases of fine wine," recalled Rex Reed, a film critic for The New York Observer. "It was done as courtesy, not a bribe. But they don't do that anymore." It is a fact of consumer life -- especially during the latest rise in ticket prices -- that readers use the blurbs to help them make their movie decisions. Some readers tend to skip the actual reviews until they've seen the movies because they give away too much of the plot. That is why I shut my eyes and stick my fingers in my ears during those endless coming attractions. The blurbs are so important that three years ago Sony executives created a fake movie critic, known as David Manning, to promote the studio's worst films. Rita Kempley, film critic for The Washington Post who retired this month after 25 years, said Allied Advertising once told her that her career would suffer if she didn't become more quotable. "I guess they couldn't figure out how to blurb me," Kempley said. It is considered an ethical no-no for newspapers to publish reviews before a movie has officially opened. No reviewer wants to be seen publicly as an extension of the studios. Which is why film festivals have become so important. These festivals, once a haven for low-budget independents looking for a promotional lift, are now routinely used by big studios to harvest positive reviews that can be used three to six months later, right before the movie premieres. Movie critics argue at length that reviewing a film at a festival before it opens is not the same as reviewing a movie before it opens. Just as questionable is the practice of film-critic organizations handing out awards that become part of the studio ads in newspapers -- an obvious attempt to influence the Academy Award nominations. "It's disgraceful," said Jack Matthews of New York's Daily News. "Sometimes the awards are handed out before the films are released." Two thumbs down to that. http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/columns/ethics_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=2066671#

If you're not familiar with Grobanites, they're kind of like Deadheads, except they're more likely to do glasses of Merlot than bong hits before shows, ...... ... If, however, you enjoy movies starring Hugh Grant AND Colin Firth, you just might be a Grobanite. Ha! I never knew myself;-)) Wine and Colin are my favorites and I would surely enjoy Josh too.

closing the proverbial tag;-) I hope..

(Bee)Wine and Colin are my favorites . . . Mmmmm . .not a bad combo, Bee . .I'm with you on that one;)

Linda- thanks for the KE note. That show is growing on me. ;-) All- I have really been enjoying the GG/Oscars discussion. Now if it could only be a DD on the red carpet instead of icky Joan and Melissa Rivers. Continuing my journey around the US for interviews, I will be heading to Columbia, MO, to visit Mizzou. If there are any Drooleurs in that neck of the woods, please contact me. Grazie.

(Karen) Also, saw Bill Murray being interviewed (can't remember which show) and he was asked about the "honor" of working with SJ. He responded that he really didn't think in terms of the honor of working with a 17-year-old but that it was a fun experience. I believe "fun" was not the operative word (or sentiment) from SJ's point of view when speaking with someone "in-the-know". Bravo, Academy re:Keisha Castle-Hughes!!! :( Had more comments that got lost and no time to repeat. Not important.

(Dorine) I believe "fun" was not the operative word (or sentiment) from SJ's point of view ... Funny...we've heard/read many interviews where SJ has sung the praises of working with Colin, but I don't remember any similar tid bits about Bill Murray. Can it be implied that this wasn't a great experience?? Wonder what the issues were?

"Fun" may or may not have been the word Bill Murray used either. Can't recall exactly, but whatever he did use, the idea was the imbecility of someone asking him (an established actor and comedian) about the "honor" or privilege of working with a 17 year old girl, a newcomer. From his POV, so what if she's the flavor of the month. Frankly, I've never set great store by actors referring to how much fun it was working with somebody...even SJ's comments. Prefer when they comment on the other's acting.

I believe they're running 'Destino' in front of the "Triplets" in my area: Disney's grateful to Dali for original 'Destino' idea By Sheigh Crabtree Combine rare Salvador Dali paintings with a healthy dose of Walt Disney movie magic and you've got one of the most interesting offerings in the 2003 animated short film Oscar race. Executive produced by Roy E. Disney, the former vice chairman of the board of the Walt Disney Co., and directed by Dominique Monfrey, who had been based at Disney's now-shuttered Paris studio, the short film "Destino" began with the unlikeliest of partnerships, one which dates back to 1945. That's when Walt Disney, the studio's founder, first proposed a collaboration with Salvador Dali, the celebrated Spanish surrealist. That original teaming was abandoned in the following year because of the studio's financial setbacks after World War II. But the project was revived again 54 years later by Roy E. Disney, Walt Disney's nephew, when he came across Dali's original artwork and story sketches while he was overseeing the re-release of "Fantasia." Almost overnight -- if you set aside that 54-year hiatus -- the project was revived and became a six-minute short film that has since gone on to become the toast of the animated film festival circuit. "The story sketches had to be reinterpreted by an animator of today," Disney said Tuesday. "It was a labor of love. You get into these things and you begin to realize it's something special and you want to do right by what was clearly an amazing idea. Surrealism in 1945 was a modern art movement that not a lot of people understood." Disney recounted the story about Dali who said, when he came to Hollywood in the 1940s, he had met the two great American surrealists: Alfred Hitchcock and Walt Disney. "I've thought about that since and if you look at a lot of the film that was made in those days, in the 1940s, there's a tremendous amount of surrealism in it: dreamscapes and weird pink elephants on parade in 'Dumbo,' for instance," he said. Attempting to explain his creative process, Dali often said that he simply woke up from dreams, realizing that he'd just come up with a great idea. Disney cited that explanation Tuesday and added that when he himself awoke on this particular morning, he was delighted to learn of the Oscar nomination for "Destino." "But my dream was a little bit more concrete," he said. "Recognition of all that hard work by your peers is thrilling." He said he planned to drink champagne and celebrate the combined work of Disney's animators and the great surrealist.

This is one I couldn't praise enough, when it played the first time around. I even managed to get my subtitlephobic brother in law to see it and he came out in awe. Now, *this* is a disturbing film and a brilliant film: Oscar pays homage to 'God' By Ian Mohr NEW YORK -- What a long, strange pilgrimage to the Oscars it has been for "City of God," Brazilian filmmaker Fernando Meirelles' explosive story of boys growing up in a dangerous neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro. Although the film was submitted for last year's Oscars by Brazil, it failed to earn a nomination as best foreign-language film -- a fact that some insiders attributed to its visceral violence. Miramax Films, which became involved in the project at the script stage, opened the film in U.S. theaters in January 2003. Because of its 2003 theatrical release, the film then became eligible to compete in the other Academy categories. Critics lauded it, but it never expanded beyond 108 theaters. Nevertheless, Miramax has kept it in limited release for more than a year. By year's end, "God" still had not climbed above the $5 million mark, but it topped the foreign-film list of a handful of critics groups and was nominated for a Golden Globe as best import. And now -- a year after the Academy first turned a thumbs down on it -- "City of God" has re-emerged with four nominations in major categories -- best director, best adapted screenplay, best film editing and best cinematography. "I'm not surprised," said Meirelles, who spent a decade in commercials before venturing into film. Speaking Tuesday from London, where he is prepping his next project, he quickly contradicted himself, adding, "I am shocked! (Last year), I thought that this was not the kind of film for the Academy." In May, Miramax Films co-chairman Harvey Weinstein made a stand -- literally -- at the Festival de Cannes on "City's" behalf. At the mini-major's annual international distributors' luncheon by the seashore, he vowed to rerelease Meirelles' movie in the United States in December for Academy Awards consideration. "In America, it's doing OK," Weinstein said at Cannes. "And in additional territories too. But I am frustrated, and I am going to rerelease it for Academy season. You never give up on the things you love." The movie mogul even asked his distribution partners to hold back releasing "God" to home video to get the campaign going. "Harvey was into the film," Meirelles said Tuesday. "We hear a lot of stories about Miramax. But he loves the film, and this is not big business for him. It's much more his (passion) for the movie." "I'm so proud of 'City of God,' " Weinstein testified Tuesday. "We resisted putting it out on video, and the minute the screener ban was lifted, we sent it out. We worked hard to let Academy members know that though the film wasn't eligible last year, it is eligible in other categories this year. Now, we're going to be putting the movie out on 200 screens, and we'll eventually get that number up to 500 screens." In recent years, the Academy has become more willing to honor foreign-language films in the major categories. Last year, for example, Sony Pictures Classics pulled off a coup with "Talk to Her," directed by Spanish helmer Pedro Almodovar. Although it was not recognized as the official Oscar foreign-language entry from Spain, the distributor fought back by waging a war in the major categories, which brought Almodovar two nominations -- for best original screenplay and best director -- and a win for screenplay. Said Meirelles: "The other nominations, in a way, explain the success of ('City'). This film had a lot to do with the actors, and they are all almost amateurs. They are real -- there is a freshness to their acting."

Empire has announced its 2004 awards nominees. A few for Love Actually (2 newcomers: Martine McC and Andrew Lincoln; Best British Actress: EmmaT; and Best British Film) - again second rate status. Full list and details here: http://www.empireonline.co.uk/news/news.asp?story=5315

(Karen) This is one I couldn't praise enough....... Now, *this* is a disturbing film and a brilliant film Agree!

I've got two Oscar-related articles from Variety today on site. Both mention GWAPE, and in the first, LA too: http://www.murphsplace.com/crowe/variety-2004-3.html

Interesting articles,Murph. " Many others predicted that the usual December logjam may be a thing of the past." I hope so. The rest of the year is like a desert.

No Scarlett fever PK Goodhand Oscars snub for Scarlett As the world bemoans the lack of Cold Mountain action in the Oscar nominations, we turn our wrath to more pressing complaints. Like where the dickens champagne-quaffing cutie Scarlett Johansson? Us Brits seem to have got it sown up, by nominating the pant-wearing Lost in Translation lady, not once, but twice for a best actress BAFTA. After all, shaving off your eyebrows and watching paint dry with Colin Firth in Girl With A Pearl Earring is worth another gong, surely? But is the bee-stung-lipped curvy miss in the running for a Best Actress Oscar? Is she heck-as-like! Instead, we�ve got to choose between Whale Rider�s Keisha Castle-Hughes (whale-y good star of sea mammal epic � apparently), Something�s Gotta Give�s Diane Keaton (being pursued by Jack Nicholson � isn�t everyone?) and Monster�s Charlize Theron (a honey, but can she act?). Naomi Watts is also nominated for 21 Grams, so as best chum of Nicole Kidman that�s one in the eye for the lanky ginger lady who is conspicuous by her absence. Leaving us to put money on, with gusto, Brit girl and In America star Samantha Morton, in a self-confessed case of misplaced national pride. The choice of fellas comes down to Bill Murray, Sean Penn, Ben Kingsley, Jude Law and oo-arrghh-me-'earties Pirates Of The Caribbean star, Johnny Depp. Of course, on the film side of things, as if we need to bother saying, Lord of the Rings gets the most votes, nominated in 11 categories, which will give director Peter Jackson another big event to turn up to without washing his hair. Master and Commander, starring everyone�s favourite rufty-tufty Russell Crowe, bagged 10-nominations and Cold Mountain, alongside horse-fest Seabiscuit, is mentioned in seven categories. Which everyone seems to think isn�t enough. Greedy. What about Scarlett? Did we mention she�s not nominated? We think we might've done. http://www.megastar.co.uk/ents/news/2004/01/27/sMEG01MTA3NTIyMjI5MjA.html

(Linda's)What about Scarlett? Did we mention she�s not nominated? We think we might've done. LOL! That's one way to put it:-)

shaving off your eyebrows and watching paint dry with Colin Firth I'd do it in a heartbeat.

Oooh Evelyn, he might show up after all;-)... Penn To Attend First Oscars Actor Sean Penn will attend the Academy Awards for the first time ever this year - to support his film Mystic River. Penn, who shunned Sunday's Golden Globe awards in favor of a night in with his daughter, has refused to attend the Oscars in the past, despite three previous Best Actor nominations for I Am Sam, Sweet And Lowdown and Dead Man Walking. However, the 43-year-old - who created controversy in Hollywood last year for his high-profile Anti-Iraq War stance - will now go to the glitzy ceremony in Los Angeles next month after being nominated for his leading performance in the Clint Eastwood-directed movie. A friend tells the Pagesix website, "(He) wants to stand up for Mystic River"

"(He) wants to stand up for Mystic River" Yeah, some people do that. ;-)

It made me laugh, outrageous as some of it is.... LA Weekly -- Deadline Hollywood - The Dwarf Got Dissed: Why this year�s Oscars suck more than usual by Nikki Finke http://www.laweekly.com/ink/04/10/deadline-finke.php

WARNING!! Move back from your monitor! Santoro Wows Fashionistas at Latin America's Big Show Wed Jan 28, 5:41 PM ET SAO PAULO, Brazil (Reuters) - Movie actor Rodrigo Santoro stole the show at the opening of Latin America's biggest fashion fest in Sao Paulo on Wednesday when he traipsed down the catwalk clad in the creations of the Brazilian president's personal stylist. Celebrities clapped and whooped when Santoro--best known internationally for his role as Laura Linney's love interest in the British hit "Love Actually"--made two appearances in the parades and upstaged supermodel and compatriot Gisele Bundchen. He was modeling for Ricardo Almeida, who is known as Brazil's Armani and has overseen President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's style transformation from a bejeaned union militant to a sharply dressed statesman. Almeida's styles on display on Wednesday aimed to attract young executives wanting to look like "well-dressed bad boys"--leather jackets and form-fitting pants in brown and black. http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=638&ncid=579&e=10&u=/nm/20040128/en_nm/leisure_fashion_brazil_dc You can see a couple of others here: http://search.news.yahoo.com/search/news/?c=news_photos&p=rodrigo+santoro

Mmmmm . .Karen thanks for that pic . .I'm getting flashbacks of those undies he wore in LA! . .who has those as keeps??? Just a bit here on another of ODB's costars: "Black Dalia" Gets A Tinge of Scarlett by Michael Fleming & Cathy Dunkley Variety Today - Thursday, January 29, 2004 Scarlettt Johansson has signed on to star in "The Black Dahlia," opposite Josh Harnett and Mark Wahlberg for Director Brian De Palma. In the fictional account of the notorious 1947 murder, Johansson plays Kay, a doppelganger for the title character, and the object of affection for two police officers ( to be played by Harnett and Wahlberg) investigating the brutal murder of Hollywood starlett Elizabeth Short. The film marks a reteam between helmer DePalma and producer Art Linson after "The Untouchables." Combination investment Pic, to be produced by Linson with Rudy Cohen and Moshe Diamant, was financed through a combination of foreign sales by Signature Pictures and an investment from the German film fund Apollo Media. The film is in process of securing a domestic distribution deal. Adapted for the screen by Josh Friedman from JAmes' Ellroy's bestselling novel, pic will start shooting May 24 in LA. Johansson will star in "Dahlia" after she finishes with the Weitz brothers film "Synergy," which she starts shooting in March. Johansson, repped by WMA and manager Melanie Johansson, will next be seen in Paramount's "The Perfect Score" and has also completed production on "A Love Song For Bobby Long."

Thank you boss..nice way to warm up a cold day! (Kim)..who has those as keeps??? Not me that's for sure..grrr;-)

(Kim)..who has those as keeps??? (Ada) Not me that's for sure..grrr;-) Laughing proudly. Scarlettt Johansson has signed on to star in "The Black Dahlia," opposite Josh Harnett and Mark Wahlberg for Director Brian De Palma. What, is this the high school version? :-(

(Karen)WARNING!! Move back from your monitor! Thanks for the Warning/disclaimer Karen! This is so that if I had spilled my afternoon hot beverage on my lap you would not be liable, right;-)) What a lovely hunk.

A couple more articles about SJ . . .can we get ODB her publicist? Girl with a Golden Future Despite this week�s Golden Globes snub and lack of Oscar nominations, actress Scarlett Johannson is well on her way to major Hollywood stardom. By Annlee Ellingson And Colin [Firth, her co-star in Girl] and I, we have a different relationship. We don�t need each other � we want each other.� �And you think that my character could survive anything,� Johannson adds. �She could survive another world war. She�s so strong that Colin [as the painter Vermeer] does not help her come unscathed out of the household. It�s her own inner strength that does.� http://www.filmstew.com/Content/Features/Details.asp?Pg=1&ContentID=7815 A Study in Scarlett Posted by: aday on Thursday, January 29, 2004 - 11:01 AM By Stephen Rebello http://spin.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=265&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0

WARNER INDEPENDENT PICTURES 2004 PREVIEW BEFORE SUNSET - JUNE 25, 2004 Nine years ago, two strangers met by chance, spent a night together in Vienna, and parted before sunrise. Now, they�re about to cross paths again � in Paris -- where they will get the chance we all wish we had � to find out what might have been. The only problem is they have just a few hours to figure out if they belong together. Directed by Richard Linklater (�Before Sunrise,� �School of Rock�), the film reunites Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. A HOME AT THE END OF THE WORLD JULY 23, 2004 From the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Hours comes a story that chronicles a dozen years in the lives of two best friends who couldn't be more different. From suburban Cleveland in the 60s, to New York City in the 80s, where they meet an older woman, the film charts a journey of trials, triumphs, loves and losses. Now the question is: can they navigate the unusual triangle they�ve created and hold their friendship together? The film stars Colin Farrell, Robin Wright-Penn, Sissy Spacek and Dallas Roberts--and is directed by Michael Mayer, the Tony Award-winning director of �Thoroughly Modern Millie." WE DON�T LIVE HERE ANYMORE AUGUST 13, 2004 (North America and UK; in post-production) Mark Ruffalo (�You Can Count on Me�), Laura Dern (�I Am Sam�), Peter Krause (�Six Feet Under�) and Naomi Watts (�21 Grams�) star in the story of two couples in a New England college town whose lives become inextricably intertwined and turned upside-down in a tide of passion, suspicion, humor, anger and stunning revelations. The film is directed by John Curran (�Praise�) from a screenplay by Larry Gross, based on two short stories by Andre Dubus II (In the Bedroom). CRIMINAL SEPTEMBER 10, 2004 John C. Reilly ("Chicago"), Diego Luna ("Y Tu Mama Tambien") and Maggie Gyllenhaal ("Secretary") star in a contemporary caper movie set in Los Angeles. It's the story of an extremely odd couple: a young Latino man who will do anything for his family (Luna) and a 30-something scheming white guy who will do anything to his family (Reilly). One wants to save his father. The other wants to get rich, in any way possible. So when they come across one of the most valuable pieces of currency in U.S. history, they're suddenly stuck together, and that's just . . . criminal. All they have to do is sell it, which is where the real problems begin. And of course the only way out is family: the one person who can help them, hates them: the schemer's sister (Gyllenhaal). �Criminal.� is directed by Gregory Jacobs. AROUND THE BEND OCTOBER 15, 2004 Four generations of men are suddenly brought together by the chance to uncover the truth about their family�s past. It�s a journey that takes them out on the road to a world full of surprises � some comic, some dramatic, and all of them personal. The film is written and directed by Jordan Roberts and stars Michael Caine, Christopher Walken, Josh Lucas, Jonah Bobo and Glenne Headly. A VERY LONG ENGAGEMENT NOVEMBER 26, 2004 From the director and star of �Amelie� (Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Audrey Tautou) comes a very different love story: �A Very Long Engagement,� based on the acclaimed novel by Sebastien Japrisot. The film is set in France near the end of World War I in the deadly trenches of the Somme, in the gilded Parisien halls of power, and in the modest home of an indomitable provincial girl. It tells the story of this young woman's relentless, moving and sometimes comic search for her fianc�e, who has disappeared. He is one of five French soldiers believed to have been court-martialed under mysterious circumstances and pushed out of an allied trench into an almost-certain death in no-man's land. What follows is an investigation into the arbitrary nature of secrecy, the absurdity of war, and the enduring passion, intuition and tenacity of the human heart. The film also stars Gaspard Ulliel, Dominique Pinon and Jodie Foster.

And Colin [Firth, her co-star in Girl] and I, we have a different relationship. We don�t need each other � we want each other.� LOL! Isn't that obvious? He is soooooo grounded. ;-)

(Karen) LOL! Isn't that obvious? He is soooooo grounded. ;-) Ummm...er...you know...he's like...just...um...**shrug**...window shopping! ;-D

I thought this part of an article I read today was interesting. It continues the SJ and honors discussion. Oscar first marks rise of third generation By STEVE MURRAY The Atlanta Journal-Constitution While Sofia Coppola was making Academy Award history, her parents were sleeping. She woke up at 5:15 a.m. Tuesday at the Los Angeles Four Seasons Hotel and turned on the TV to watch the Oscar nominations, along with her "Translation" producer Ross Katz and Bart Walker, her agent. "We ordered room service and screamed," she said. After the screaming, she called Bill Murray, who earned the film's fourth Oscar nomination, for best actor. "He was so happy. He said he was going to be very different now and throw some tantrums. I think he's been strutting around all day." Murray's co-star, 19-year-old Scarlett Johansson, didn't get singled out. "We couldn't have gotten that best picture nomination without her," Coppola said. "But I can't say I'm sorry for her, because everyone has really been talking about her talent. And she has a lot of time ahead of her." Of the five best picture nominees, "Lost in Translation" is the only low-budget, independent film. It has no wizards or battleships, no special effects, no killings, no horse races. "No plot, even," Coppola said wryly. It's true. Her movie is a sort of emotional tone poem better experienced than described. "It was really unexpected," she said about the film's traction with audiences. "I love the movie, but I never expected it to be out there so much. We made the movie we wanted to make, and people connected with it. People say that it really stayed with them." One thing that has stayed with viewers is the mystery of what Murray whispers to Johansson in their final scene together. Coppola won't say. "Bill says it's something between lovers. Everyone can make it what they want it to be." But now, as a best picture nominee, that secret exchange could be a prime target for Oscar host Billy Crystal's wit. Coppola paused, considering the possibility. "I never thought of that," she said quietly. "Oh my God, it's so surreal, the whole thing . . . " http://www.accessatlanta.com/news/content/movies/news/0104/29coppola.html

(Karen) LOL! Isn't that obvious? He is soooooo grounded. ;-) (Tress) Ummm...er...you know...he's like...just...um...**shrug**...window shopping! ;-D Don't you just know that, as a result, Colin's next co-star will be, like, Vanessa Redgrave or similar. ;-) "We couldn't have gotten that best picture nomination without her," Coppola said. "But I can't say I'm sorry for her, because everyone has really been talking about her talent. And she has a lot of time ahead of her." Talk about your inadvertently bitchy comments! Personally, many could say the same about Sofia with the "unknown" last name who has only made one other film. Doesn't seem fair that she is going to get the honor of being the first woman director to be nominated for an Oscar, when there are so many others who have been overlooked. It has no wizards or battleships, no special effects, no killings, no horse races. "No plot, even," Coppola said wryly. It's true. Her movie is a sort of emotional tone poem better experienced than described. *snort*

29 JANUARY 2004 The new hero of British comedy, Ricky Gervais, got so excited after winning two Golden Globes last weekend that he forgot to acknowledge his co-workers. But the self-effacing actor is obviously keen to make amends for the oversight, because he has taken out a full page ad in showbiz magazine Variety to offer them his thanks and congratulations. "I would have made a better effort if I thought I was going to win," said the 42-year-old, who plays paper mill boss David Brent in The Office. "I'm sorry I did not have something better to say� I'm more surprised than I have ever been in my life!". Ricky looks set to become a major force in the US, where he is currently working on an American version of the show. (ed.note-that never works, remember Coupling?) After last weekend's awards Miramax boss Harvey Weinstein described him as a "genius" and he has also filmed a part in the spy series Alias. Comic Steve Carell will play Brent in a pilot for the new show, but NBC apparently wants Ricky himself to reprise the role when filming begins on the series proper. And the self-styled "fat bloke from Reading" has reportedly received a flood of acting and writing offers since his victory at the Globes. Indeed his run of glory has even extended back to Britain, where town planners in his hometown have decided to name a street after him. http://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/2004/01/29/rickygervais/

(Karen) LOL! Isn't that obvious? He is soooooo grounded. ;-) (Tress) Ummm...er...you know...he's like...just...um...**shrug**...window shopping! ;-D (Karen)Don't you just know that, as a result, Colin's next co-star will be, like, Vanessa Redgrave or similar. ;-) Ooooh, look out...I think there's some, umm, channeling of red fingernails going on...or, you know, whatever... (Karen) Doesn't seem fair that she is going to get the honor of being the first woman director to be nominated for an Oscar, when there are so many others who have been overlooked. The first? Really? OK, nevermind that, I know that you know, but really? I had no freakin' idea. Do you suppose Halle will present? (Slapping self...)

(Karen)Doesn't seem fair that she is going to get the honor of being the first woman director to be nominated for an Oscar, when there are so many others who have been overlooked. Isn't she the first AMERICAN female director nominated? Jane Campion was nominated and maybe Leni Wertwhatever?

v.g. Louise. Yes, it is first American female director. Lina Wertmuller was the first female director. I hadn't thought that Jane Campion got that nom, only possibly for screenwriting, but she did.

What about Barbra Streisand? Wasn't she nominated for Prince of Tides or something like that? I might remember wrong, it was a loooong time ago.

No, she was snubbed (film was nominated for Best Picture but she was not); that's when the issue came to light.

A little misstep for the "It" girl. Though no matter. Everyone has them. Review: Imperfect vision derails 'Perfect Score' By Melinda Ennis, Palm Beach Post-Cox News Service Friday, January 30, 2004 The Perfect Score gets some passing grades for acting, but ultimately it flunks the final. Starring the "it girl" of the moment, Scarlett Johansson (Lost in Translation, Girl With a Pearl Earring), in a role she signed on for before she became "it," the plot revolves around a group of high school seniors who scheme to steal SAT questions. This dubious plan is justified in the film by the underlying assertion that the SAT is an unfair, racially and sexually biased barometer that puts undue pressure on otherwise promising teens. Despite the serious subject matter, director Brian Robbins can't decide whether this is a drama, a satire or an American Pie-style teen spoof, and the film dissolves into a shapeless, weightless mass. Kyle (Chris Evans, Not Another Teen Movie) is a 3.7 GPA student whose determined dreams of a Cornell architecture degree are stymied by a respectable but imperfect PSAT performance. His cohort in crime is his buddy, Matty (Bryan Greenberg, of The WB show One Tree Hill), whose university yearnings are focused on joining the girlfriend who has left him behind for the University of Maryland. The teens recruit four other students to help break into the Educational Standards Testing building where the SAT tests are produced, conveniently located in their neighborhood of Princeton, N.J. The group's academic (and acting) abilities are as diverse as its predictably varied ethnicity. This Breakfast Club-ish crew includes Anna (Erika Christensen, Traffic), a pretty, straight-A achiever; Desmond (NBA star Darius Miles), an African-American basketball hero whose court prowess doesn't mitigate his poor classroom performance; and Francesca (Johansson), a poor little rich and pouty punk chick. The only fly in the formulaic ointment is Roy (newcomer Leonardo Nam), an Asian-American who is a pothead instead of an overachieving academic, as might be expected in this clich�d concoction. Yet Nam gets the film's few laughs, while supplying some dramatic motivation for his drug-hazed lifestyle. The talent of Johansson and Christensen so outshines the material -- and their costars (especially Miles, who acts as if reading lines from cue cards) -- that it sometimes seems as if they were in a different film. Johansson's portrayal of a parentally abandoned and jaded teen shows the promise delivered in her more lauded roles of late. And her luminous screen presence is intact, even when dressed in a slacker-slut ensemble. Similarly, when she's allowed, Christensen brings depth and dimension to her role as a brilliant, creative student pressured by her parents' tunnel vision of Ivy League success. The movie flip-flops between feeble attempts at humor, righteous indignation and moralistic messages about the SAT issue. The power that this test wields over the children and parents of 21st-century America is a thought-provoking premise. Regrettably, the only thought this movie provokes is wondering when it will be over.

Starring the "it girl" of the moment, Scarlett Johansson (Lost in Translation, Girl With a Pearl Earring), in a role she signed on for before she became "it," the plot revolves around a group of high school seniors who scheme to steal SAT questions. When I saw the trailer for this several weeks ago, I thought, "Ahhh! Here's the typical high school fare someone of her age usually does." Since Peter Webber mentioned in one of the interviews he went to talk to SJ while she was making this (finished before GWAPE), you can kind of surmise it wasn't going to be a winner as both of her subsequent films have already been released.

I read yesterday that Perfect Score was supposed to have been released almost a year ago, but was held back. So, SJ can be forgiven; believe me, she won't be making films of that ilk anymore.

For Fans of "The Office" - Martin Freeman (ie John from LA )signed on for this: Variety - Friday, January 30th Cast gets thumbs up for "Hitchhiker" gig by Cathy Dunkley "The Office" star Martin Freeman, Zooey Deschanel and Mos Def top the cast of Spyglass Entertainment/Walt Disney PIcture's feature version of Douglas Adams "The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy." Garth Jennings and Nick Goldsmith (aka Hammer and Tongs) will direct the pic, which starts shooting April 19 in London. Adams, who penned the adaption prior to his death in 2001, will have a posthumous producing credit. Spyglass partners Roger Birnbaum, Gary Barber and Johnathan Glickman will produce with Jay Roach and Goldsmith. Exec producers are Derek Evans, RObbie Stamp and Adams. Buena Vista Motion Pictures prexy Nina Jacobson and exec VP of production Jason Reed will oversee the project for the studio. The story centers on Arthur Dent (Freeman), who is whisked off the planet by Ford Prefect (Def) an undercover alien researching "The Hitchhiker's Guide." just before Earth is destroyed to create a new hyperspace freeway. Deschanel will play Trillian, girlfriend of Zaphod Beeblebrox, a two-headed, three-armed ex-hippie and current president of the Galaxy. That role hs still to be cast. The property has been previously adapted as a radio serial and TV series (both for BBC) as well as a videogame.

Miramax's Weinstein Blames Oscar Snub on Timing Sun Feb 1, 6:06 PM ET LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Miramax Films co-chairman Harvey Weinstein was quoted on Sunday as blaming the timing of the release of "Cold Mountain" for the film's failure to win an Oscar nomination in the best picture category. In interviews with Time and Newsweek, Weinstein said he opened the highly acclaimed Civil War epic starring Nicole Kidman and Jude Law at Christmas time so that Oscar nominations would fuel box office sales. "With the early (Oscar voting) this year, we fell short. There's a lot to do for Academy members and I don't know how many members we got to. We just plain ran out of people who had seen this movie," Weinstein told Time Magazine, which hits newsstands on Feb. 2. But "Cold Mountain" did win seven other Oscar nominations from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences including best actor for Jude Law and best supporting actress for Renee Zellweger. It is the first time in 12 years that Walt Disney Co.'s Miramax does not have a best picture nominee at the Oscars but the studio still racked up the most nominations of any studio -- 15 -- for the third year in a row. Citing the fact that the Oscars will be held in February this year instead of March, Weinstein told Newsweek, "I think the whole positioning of movies has changed because of this." Other than "Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King," every best-picture nominee was released prior to December, he said. As a result, Weinstein said Miramax would move up the release of J.M. Barrie's "Neverland" starring Johnny Depp to October and would aim to release Martin Scorsese's "The Aviator" in November instead of late December. Weinstein also told Time that he will be directing his own film "pretty soon, probably the fall." He said the script is finished and the film will be produced by Martin Scorsese and Anthony Minghella, who directed "Cold Mountain."

Weinstein also told Time that he will be directing his own film "pretty soon, probably the fall." He said the script is finished and the film will be produced by Martin Scorsese and Anthony Minghella, who directed "Cold Mountain." Hmmm . .wonder what that project is and how it will turn out . . .

Emma's top actress, actually By Luke Leitch, Arts Correspondent, Evening Standard It was the night one of our most celebrated actresses and a 15-year-old schoolboy shared the limelight. Emma Thompson, star of Love Actually, and Master And Commander's Max Pirkis were outstanding winners at the Evening Standard British Film Awards - the only awards dedicated exclusively to celebrating British talent. While Love Actually lost out as best film, Thompson bagged the best actress award for her performance in it. Ms Thompson, 44, wearing a daring backless pink Maria Grachvogel gown, said: "I thought I've only got a few more years left to wear things like this so I might as well make the most of them." Eton schoolboy Max Pirkis, aged 15, was named ITV London's most promising newcomer for his part alongside Russell Crowe in Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Pirkis admitted his schoolfriends tease him about his new-found fame. He said: "This was the first acting I had ever done. The film's producers just came to our school and auditioned some of us. My schoolmates are quite amused - and they do bring it up in class." Many of the recipients of the awards spoke in defence of the BBC following the Hutton Report. Best actor winner Paul Bettany, 32, whose wife is actress Jennifer Connelly, said: "I would like to thank the whole of the BBC. I'm married to an American so it's nice to have somebody that tells things as they are." He received his award for performances in Master And Commander and The Heart Of Me. Director Ken Loach presented the best film award to Kevin Macdonald for his true story of a mountaineering expedition, Touching The Void. Mr Loach said: "It is very important that the BBC retains its independence for all of us because for those of us who make films, the independence of broadcasting television is not negotiable." Comic Jack Dee, who presented the 31st awards, joked to the audience at the Savoy that he helped out with the writing of the Hutton Report. He said: "That great punch line at the end - 'it was the BBC's fault' - I wrote that." Bill Nighy was named winner of The Peter Sellers Award for comedy, for his role in Love Actually. He joked: "I thought awards were divisive and damaging until I got one and then they became strangely meaningful and real." Best screenplay went to Gregor Jordan, Nora Maccoby and Eric Weiss for Buffalo Soldiers, a comic portrayal about US soldiers stationed in West Germany just before the fall of the Berlin Wall. The technical achievement award went to cinematographer Seamus McGarvey for the Nicole Kidman film The Hours. The award was presented by Nip/Tuck star Joely Richardson. The awards, to be screened on ITV London on Thursday, were hosted by Evening Standard editor Veronica Wadley. [Ed note: I'll never understand this...] She said: "I'm sure you will have noticed there is one important person who is not here this year. I refer to Alexander Walker, the Evening Standard's film critic for 43 years until he died so suddenly last summer. "Above all he was the most passionate and most respected movie fan in Britain. To honour the contribution of Alex made to the standard and just as importantly to the British film industry I am proud to announce a new award tonight - the Alexander Walker Special Award." It was won by the director Michael Winterbottom. Olivia Williams, Emilia Fox, Emily Woof and Romola Garai were among th leading ladies at the Savoy. The ceremony was also attended by Stephen Daldry, John Hurt, Richard Curtis and Simon Callow.

I heard that there were several articles in the WSJ about Miramax and Harvey. The consensus seems to be that black-balling Cold Mountain for Best Pic was backlash at Miramax for their heavy-handedness in previous years. Also apparently Miramax did not send out screeners to Academy members to cut down on piracy. " Many of the recipients of the awards spoke in defence of the BBC following the Hutton Report." Why am I not surprised;-)

Just a programming note here: BAFTAS Live, commercial free, and exclusive coverage of the star-studded Orange British Academy Film Awards airs Sunday, February 15th at 4 pm/et, 1 pm/pt. BBC America

Re: Extras' pay Saw this on a bulletin board, inviting people (no experience req'd) to be extras in a Nic Cage movie being filmed here: The film shoots in Chicago/Suburbs from Feb 23rd � May. All types are need and all positions are paid. For consideration, please attend the Open Casting Call on Sat. Feb 7th. Compensation: $55/8 hrs

Thanks to a Crowe fan: Opinions?? Variety -- Keep your shirt on, Oscar. Not even the traditionally well-behaved Academy Awards ceremony is immune to the storm over indecency that is lashing the broadcast biz. For the first time ever, ABC wants to impose a delay on its telecast of the Oscars, so that inappropriate material can be edited out. ABC approached the Academy of Motion Pictures & Sciences about using a five-second delay. On Tuesday night, the AMPAS board voted not to change its plans for the show, but will not fight the web execs: "It's up to them," said an Acad spokesman. Unlike other live telecasts, the Oscars have never been subject to a delay -- a point of pride for the org. While board members understand the web's concerns, they decided to make no changes to their Oscarcast strategy. ABC first approached the org last week about a possible delay, even before Janet Jackson's breast-baring during Sunday's Super Bowl halftime show. Networks were already skittish about live events, thanks to such occurrences as the expletive from U2's Bono at last year's Golden Globe awards on NBC. Throughout Tuesday, the Super Bowl spectacle continued to engulf CBS in controversy. Still in full damage control, Eye announced it will employ an unprecedented, enhanced tape and video delay when televising Sunday's Grammy Awards. Delay could be as much as five minutes and will utilize a complex mix of computer software and automatic tape machines. Also, insiders said CBS and Grammy officials are in constant communication regarding whether or not Janet Jackson will participate in the awards show. Talks continue, with several industry insiders suggesting CBS would prefer Jackson not appear. The networks use a five-second delay on most live events, which allows them to edit for audio. "The network has made it clear they're feeling enormous pressure to institute a delay," AMPAS exec director Bruce Davis said. "ABC may factor in the board's decision, but has indicated that it will not necessarily feel obligated to follow it." In theory, a five-second delay would not affect the ceremonies at the Kodak Theatre. But a network exec would have his finger on the bleep button, which is a consideration. "We would be very concerned about a delay that would raise possibility of a network representative deciding that remarks like Michael Moore's last year would be inappropriate," Davis said. "We don't want that kind of censorship. The ability to edit out a single word or a body part is different; that's not the same kind of concern, although some would see it as the camel's nose moving into our tent." Given the current climate, ABC may be willing to go against the Academy's wishes if it means protecting its affiliates and its owned & operated stations. What game? And the network wants to protect the event itself: One ABC exec noted that talk about the actual Super Bowl, which was an exciting game, has been easily overshadowed by talk about Jackson. With indecency already on the minds of Washington regulators sitting down to watch the Super Bowl, Jackson's stunt couldn't have come at a worse time for CBS, which maintains it had no idea that she had arranged for singer Justin Timberlake to pull her top off. Show was produced by sister company MTV. The CBS Affiliate Advisory Board held a conference call Tuesday and afterward demanded the net do something to ensure that Sunday's Grammy telecast would be free of content that would raise red flags at the FCC or in Congress. In a letter to CBS chair-CEO Leslie Moonves, with copies forwarded to Viacom prexy Mel Karmazin and CBS head of affiliate relations Peter Schruth, affils lambasted the net for allowing the indecent content in the halftime show to take place and informing Eye execs they plan to "cooperate fully" with the FCC investigation and any other inquiries. "The CBS Affiliates regard themselves as partners with the network," CBS Affiliate Advisory Board chair Bob Lee wrote in the communique. "In what should have been a triumphant occasion for that partnership, the network let us down and embarrassed us in front of our public. It was not just one incident in the halftime show; from beginning to end, the show was in poor taste and reflected poor judgment," said Lee, GM of WDBJ in Roanoke, Va. Affiliates have good reason to worry -- they could each be fined $27,000 for airing the bawdy halftime show. The agency Monday sent CBS a formal letter of inquiry, which alerts the net of the investigation and asks execs to provide their version of events in a timely manner. The question that agency officials are now pondering if whether to fine all of the affiliates or just the network owned-and-operated stations, FCC sources said. If the agency fines all CBS stations, penalties could exceed $5 million. "We are just as outraged as the affiliates are," CBS spokesman Dana McClintock said. MTV Networks chairman-CEO seemed equally upset over the incident. "We were really ripped off. We were punk'd by Janet Jackson," Freston said at an industry panel in New York Tuesday, referring to MTV's reality show that makes celebrities the butt of practical jokes. Insiders said CBS was equally outraged at the prospect of Jackson appearing at the Grammys. CBS could use its leverage to make sure she doesn't. Jackson is scheduled as a presenter. As of Tuesday afternoon, Jackson had not been asked to bow out by the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, which administers the Grammys. Justin Timberlake will perform as planned. "There's a big difference between a stage on a football field and the Grammy awards," a Recording Academy spokesman said. "He's nominated for his music and that's what he wants to celebrate." Gripes roll in The FCC has received 100,000 email complaints about the Super Bowl so far; that figure doesn't include any complaints arriving via regular mail; the D.C. government post office is shut down because of the ricin discovered in a Senate mailroom Monday. The complaints were not focused entirely on Jackson's exposure; some referred to the dirty dancing, Nelly's crotch-grabbing, the lyrics in some of the songs and Kid Rock's cutting up the flag and wearing it as a shirt. Before the FCC considers whether it will fine owned-and-operated stations differently than regular CBS affiliates, the agency must decide which parts of the halftime show constitute indecency violations. "They all say we're just passing on network programming, but at the same time they'll say we're the broadcaster," said the FCC's media legal adviser Jonathan Cody. "We have to consider whether or not to go down this road, whether the O&Os should be subject to different kinds of fines because this is so new from a legal perspective." Cody added that he did not know if the agency has the authority to treat different types of stations differently. The agency also has the power to fine Jackson directly for planning and pulling off the stunt; Cody said while that is possible, it is not probable. Some industry observers has speculated that the heavy fines and outrage over the Super Bowl could force the championship game off the public airwaves entirely and could be available in the future only the pay-per-view status. "I certainly hope that's not what this comes to," Cody said. "I hope smarter heads prevail. That's a question for the NFL and CBS. My personal opinion is these guys have to go figure how to go about doing this. We've had 30 some Super Bowls broadcast over the public airwaves ... but I don't know if there's another 30 years in it. Whether it's cable or not, you still have the interest in protecting children." Agitated affils In their letter to CBS brass, Lee also demanded an immediate accounting as to why the net allowed the show to occur and what steps it is taking to prevent any kind of a repeat performance. "We regret that in this instance we cannot support the network, which normally we are proud to be affiliated with. Because we are on the frontline of CBS' relations with millions of Americans, we ask that you give us a full and immediate information about your own efforts to identify where the planning and implementation of the halftime show went awry and the steps CBS is taking to assure that no episode of this kind will ever occur again," the affils wrote. (Timothy M. Gray and Phil Gallo in Hollywood and the Associated Press contributed to this report.)

What's a 5 second delay....who cares? But ABC is worried about a lot more than that.... From TIME this week article by Richard Corliss "With all the indie nominations, some big stars and big moviews were orphaned. 'There's fear at the Academy about ratings,' says an industry consultant. 'Johnny Depp and Renee Zellweger are the biggest stars. It's really going to be about the presenters'. Also:Seems as if No Show Sean might be changing his mind;-))) "Some movie mavens predict that Sean Penn's absence at the Golden Globes last week could have a crippling effect on his shot at the Best Actor Oscar for Mystic River. When Penn won the Globe for Best Actor in a drama, Eastwood, accepting the award for him, mentioned what a commendable fellow Penn is. A few days later, after his Oscar nomination was announced, the star's handlers said he would attend several industry functions" http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1101040209-586244,00.html

(Karen)Compensation: $55/8 hrs eesh . .that's how much they pay non-SAG in Chicago? . . .after taxes that's a pittance . .we get a tad bit more here in NYC about $75 Saw this in HollyWood Reporter Feb 3 - 9 2004 For Droolers in the LA area: The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising http://www.fidm.com/features/gallery/museumfoundation.html#ns 12th Annual Exhibition: The FIDM Museum Galleries Present �The Art of Motion Picture Costume Design� Exhibition Saluting Year 2003 Costumes Designed For Film Presentation Internationally Exclusive Los Angeles, California: The Museum Galleries at The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM will open their 12th annual exhibition saluting � The Art of Motion Picture Costume Design� on Monday, February 2, 2004. This annual, major exhibition pays homage to the creativity of the costume designer for film with a museum show of outstanding costumes and Oscar nominated designs. On view will be year 2003 actual costumes from outstanding motion pictures. The 2004 Exhibition features over 100 costumes from 25 plus films from 2003, including five Oscar nominees for Costume Design . The Oscar nominated costumes are from Girl with a Pearl Earring, The Last Samurai, The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, and Seabiscuit . Other films represented in the collection are: The Haunted Mansion, Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Curse Of The Black Pearl, The Missing and many more. Free Exhibition: Public Dates/Times Opens to Public: Monday, February 2, 2004 ends Thursday, April 8, 2004 Gallery Hours: 10-4 p.m. daily, including Saturday. Closed Sundays Location: The FIDM Museum Galleries On The Park, 1st Level, The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM, 919 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Corner of Grand Avenue & 9th Street) Parking: Under college building. Entrance on 9th Street Admission: Free. Group tours can be arranged� 213-624-1200, ext. 2225 Public Information: 213-624-1200, Ext. 2224 Media Contact: Shirley Wilson 213-624-1200, Ext. 2625, Voice Page: 213-994-1278 A Bit of Exhibition History Twelve years ago, with the help of The Costume Designers Guild, The Museum Galleries at The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM planned an exhibit honoring the work of the talented men and women costume designers in the film industry. This modest first effort met with such success, that in each succeeding year, the number of movies and costumes grew. Three years ago, the college opened an entirely new museum with 11,000 square feet of space, expanding the scope of the exhibition. Today, the exhibit receives international publicity, thousands upon thousand of people visit the Museum Galleries, tour groups travel far distances, including hundreds of students from high schools and colleges all over California and surrounding states. This indeed, is a tribute to the skill, dedication and talent of those artists we showcase each year. The Museum at FIDM is very proud of its association with the creative people who produce their costume magic for the film industry. As always, we salute their efforts, triumphs and art. Media Contact: Shirley Wilson 213-624-1200, ext. 2625 or 213-994-1278 11/7/03

Started going to my film class again last night and almost fell out of the chair or jumped to the ceiling when the teacher started talking about the bonus movie this weekend. He started to describe it (without using the title as he is wont to do) as a complex, edgy British film whose director and 2 of the stars were flying into town this weekend for press over the next week and were available to come to class on Sun. Was thinking "Yeah!! Trauma found a distributor!!"...and he happened to get it early. I was on that thought train because When I got the notice for the current mini-term, when I got back from Sundance, Trauma was listed as one of the possible movies. But alas, it's a movie called Collusion. Good viewer reviews on imdb.com (yes, Mari, am getting to Trauma review for AICN, etc ;-)....may have more time than I know what to do with next week to get to it.) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0295838/#comment I called my teacher when I got back from Sundance and saw the movie list to tell him I'd just seen Trauma and ask how he'd be getting it without a US distributor (knowing full well movies are put on the list as a draw not a definite), but had to leave a message and never heard back. Didn't have time to speak to him last night. I don't think most of the people in my class would like it really. We had Jack Foley (head of Focus Features....Lost In Translation, 21 Grams, Sylvia) as guest last night. He's very enthusiastic and sometimes childlike when talking about the game of strategizing releasing movies and how that changes week to week. Talked about LIT as an example. At one point, mentioned they were concerned about LA's release affecting them. More later, gotta run.

Response 1168 of 1170: EmmaB (emmabean) * Thu, Feb 5, 2004 ( News about old things: any one else in the UK seen the ads on channel 4 for Regency House Party? New reality show starting soon I think we heard about here, to match single people up JA style. Well they've set up at least some of it to be seriously Andrew Davies' Darcy-esque - we have a guy in the same clothes with a wet shirt clinging to him strolling across a grassy bank. see here: http://www.channel4.com/history/microsites/R/regencyhouse/index.html

Forgot to say...interesting story, Dorine. How did Trauma even get listed for your class as a "possible"? Were you whispering in someone's ear? ;-) Well they've set up at least some of it to be seriously Andrew Davies' Darcy-esque There was an article in the Telegraph's magazine that had the last Colin article about the program, and there was a picture of two guys on horses with a big house in the background. Reminiscent of a certain opening scene.

If anyone wants to see a little video about the making of this year's Vanity Fair Hollywood Portfolio issue: http://extratv.warnerbros.com/dailynews/extra/0204/02_02c.html No Colin of course, and I believe it is significantly shorter than what I saw on TV...or maybe it was another infotainment show. http://et.tv.yahoo.com/celebrities/2004/02/02/janetjackson_vanityfair/

Looks like Dorine's honey, Sam, has been cast in a film for which Colin's name was once bandied about (probably without any basis either): Rockwell hitches 'Galaxy' ride Sam Rockwell should have a lot of face time in Spyglass Entertainment/Walt Disney Co.'s "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" -- a big-screen adaptation of the cult hit novel by Douglas Adams -- because he'll be playing Zaphod, the two-headed president of the galaxy. "Galaxy" begins shooting in April in London with Garth Jennings at the helm. Mos Def, Zooey Deschanel and Martin Freeman also star. Mos Def plays Ford Prefect, an alien disguising himself as an out-of-work actor who sets out on an intergalactic journey with his best friend, mild-mannered earthling Arthur Dent (Freeman). The duo hitch a ride through space with Rockwell's Zaphod, the beautiful and brilliant scientist Trillion (Deschanel) and a depressed robot while on a quest to discover the meaning of life.

I think I'll stick with Babette's Feast or Big Night...Now Mari, What exactly did you say to that poor man again? ;-)) Move over, Hannibal Lecter, Hugh Grant is here. What? Yes, you read it right. The British romantic-comedy king, who has headlined such classic chick flicks as �Four Weddings and a Funeral� and �Bridget Jones' Diary,� is looking for a role with a little more meat. Grant is reportedly using his film production company to get the rights to the story of the German cannibal, Armin Meiwes, who after putting out a newspaper advertisement, killed and partially ate a man with the victim's consent, videotaping portions of the episode to acquit himself of long-term prison charges. Grant plans to play the lead character, and wants Brad Pitt to play the part of Bernd Brandes, the cannibal's victim. A friend of Grant's told the London Daily Star newspaper that Grant thinks this role is Oscar-worthy material, and that he's ready to break out of his typecasting as a romantic-comedy hero. About Brad Pitt's taking on this role, Grant said he'd be perfect. After all, who wouldn't want to take a bite out of Brad Pitt? http://www.faz.com/IN/INtemplates/eFAZ/docmain.asp?rub=%7BF040FFD3-897B-46DF-9603-752DD6405389%7D&doc=%7BC94285CE-C5A6-43A3-8C66-D0DB80B57A9A%7D

Thanks for the Hugh Grant article, Maria. I've often thought ODB's been very fortunate not to have been as severely typecast as HG. Not sure if it's a result of obvious talent, careful planning or just luck. Am very grateful that we continue to get to see him in a wide variety of genres.

A friend of Grant's told the London Daily Star newspaper that Grant thinks this role is Oscar-worthy material, and that he's ready to break out of his typecasting as a romantic-comedy hero. Oscar-worthy may be pushing it, but at least he's going to try. It's going to take some effort though and he may not succeed at first. But he really has to. Can't be a rom-com hero forever.

I have "not -too- fond" memories of Extreme Measures. I say , he has a niche that no one else can equal.

The first episode of the second season of the Forsyte saga airs this Sunday, Feb 8. Discussions take place on: http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/164/new

(Karen)Oscar-worthy may be pushing it, but at least he's going to try. It's going to take some effort though and he may not succeed at first. But he really has to. Can't be a rom-com hero forever. (Evelyn)I have "not -too- fond" memories of Extreme Measures. I just saw Impromptu and he played a prissy Chopin. I think he has it in him to do more and better.

(Karen)but at least he's going to try Yes, bravo Hugh. But I thought he wanted out;-)

(lindak)..But I thought he wanted out Ditto. I remember him being quoted extensively last year (particularly in a high profile Vanity Fair article) about how he'd had it with acting and the industry. Wonder what happened? New mortgage payment perhaps?

Yes, he had been saying it, but I forget on which program he admitted his friends had told him he'd made a mistake in making that comment.

Not that this wasn't expected: 3rd DGA nom is a charm for Jackson By Gregg Kilday "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" continued to build awards season momentum as Peter Jackson took home the top honors for outstanding directorial achievement in feature film at the 56th annual DGA Awards held Saturday night at the Century Plaza Hotel. Jackson, who also received nominations for each of the first two installments of his epic trilogy based on the novel by J.R.R. Tolkien, claimed his first DGA award for the trilogy's grand finale. He prevailed over a competitive field of nominees that included Sofia Coppola for "Lost in Translation," Clint Eastwood for "Mystic River," Gary Ross for "Seabiscuit" and Peter Weir for "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World." In accepting the award, Jackson said, "I am so proud to accept this for making a film that, thanks to J.R.R. Tolkien's book, promotes the values of courage, of friendship and faith." The DGA award makes Jackson the front-runner in the current Oscar race -- where he is nominated as best director and New Line Cinema's "King" is up for 11 awards -- since only six times since 1949 has the winner of the DGA award failed to win the best directing Oscar. Jackson also picked up a Golden Globe as best director. In addition, "King" has scored the Producers Guild of America's Golden Laurel Award, earned a best drama Golden Globe and was named the year's best picture by the Broadcast Film Critics Assn. In the category of movies for television, Mike Nichols was honored for the HBO miniseries "Angels in America," which picked up five Golden Globes. Nichols was a double winner at Saturday night's event because he was also the recipient of the guild's Lifetime Achievement Award. In presenting the award, Buck Henry, who has frequently collaborated with Nichols, credited him with "enormous curiosity, far-ranging intelligence, a diet rich in fiber, a boundless affection for actors -- and some actresses. I firmly believe that he is just at the beginning of his amazing career." Nichols, currently filming "Closer" in England [Ed note: too bad he can't work with Emma again on Nanny], accepted the award by videotape and paid tribute to such mentors as Billy Wilder, William Wyler and George Stevens, calling them "my heroes." He added, "I'm still thrilled to be doing the same job they did." Christopher Misiano picked up the directing award for nighttime drama series for "25," an episode of NBC's "The West Wing," while Timothy M. Van Patten took home the comedy trophy for the "Boy Interrupted" episode of HBO's "Sex and the City." The winner for outstanding directorial achievement in documentary proved something of an upset with Nathaniel Kahn taking the prize for "My Architect," a portrait of his father, architect Louis Kahn. In the DGA competition it was up against such highly regarded docus as Sam Green and Bill Siegel's "The Weather Underground," Andrew Jarecki's "Capturing the Friedmans," Errol Morris' "The Fog of War" and Jose Padilha's "Bus 174." With the exception of "Bus 174," all the films are also competing in the current documentary Oscar race. Carl Reiner, adroitly serving as master of ceremonies for his 19th consecutive year, lent an air of spontaneity to the event, introducing a new element to the usual awards show thank-yous by allowing winners a "mulligan" so they could return to the stage to thank anyone they forgot in their initial remarks.

In the "Gimme a break and stop complaining category"... Weinstein: 'Cold' shunned because of location By Stuart Kemp and Scott Roxborough BERLIN -- Miramax Films co-chairman Harvey Weinstein said Thursday that he believes the low Oscar-nomination count for "Cold Mountain" was due in part to stories in the U.S. press attacking the moviemakers' decision to shoot it in Europe and not America. Weinstein, who jetted in to support the Anthony Minghella-directed Civil War story, which kicks off the Berlin International Film Festival, hinted that there had been a whispering campaign against the production because the filmmakers chose to shoot largely in lower-cost Romania rather than the United States. Said Weinstein: "I'm proud of 'Cold Mountain' being a European film. The movie has done $80 million at the U.S. boxoffice so far and is on its way to $100 million. But I think it (being shot in Romania) did hurt us with the Academy (voters)." Weinstein stopped short of calling it a boycott by voters but said negative press may have resulted in "a move to deny the movie awards." The film received seven Oscar nominations. Said Minghella: "There has been a reaction in America and a real campaign to stop movies leaving America to shoot." While Minghella said he understood the criticism, he defended his decision to shoot in Romania on economic terms. "It was a choice between making the movie (outside America) or not," he said. "We still spent nearly $20 million in the U.S." Weinstein also attacked what he called American "discrimination" against European films and cited an example of how few are seen in the United States. "We believe in European quotas because European movies are discriminated against in America," Weinstein said. "The major networks in America have not shown one single European movie in 25 years." The news conference saw Weinstein face down a question on why the movie's three principal stars -- Jude Law, Nicole Kidman and Renee Zellweger -- failed to travel for the evening's gala. He said Law and Zellweger are shooting movies in London, and Kidman had returned to Australia because of a "family situation." Weinstein said he had offered to buy out the production of "Closer," which Law is shooting, in order to secure the actor's presence in Berlin. "You know my reputation," Weinstein joked. "If I couldn't get them out (to Berlin), nobody could." He played down any suggestion that the stars weren't supporting the movie's European rollout, which begins Monday on a release tour of the continent's capitals. Law and Zellweger will be traveling with the film, while Kidman is gearing up to do satellite interviews upon her return to New York. Other attendees at the news conference included the movie's Philip Seymour Hoffman and Brendan Gleeson. ~~~~~~~~~ Did it never occur to him that five other films could be better?

The news conference saw Weinstein face down a question on why the movie's three principal stars -- Jude Law, Nicole Kidman and Renee Zellweger -- failed to travel for the evening's gala. Maybe Renee wasn't there for the gala, but I saw a photo of her on Yahoo this morning for a photocall in Berlin for the festival. Miramax Films co-chairman Harvey Weinstein said Thursday that he believes the low Oscar-nomination count for "Cold Mountain" was due in part to stories in the U.S. press attacking the moviemakers' decision to shoot it in Europe and not America. Weinstein stopped short of calling it a boycott by voters but said negative press may have resulted in "a move to deny the movie awards." I've heard it was the unions, not the press. But they still got some noms anyway. Weinstein, who jetted in to support the Anthony Minghella-directed Civil War story, which kicks off the Berlin International Film Festival, hinted that there had been a whispering campaign against the production because the filmmakers chose to shoot largely in lower-cost Romania rather than the United States. Whispering nuthin', email/letter campaign from what I've seen and heard. Peter Jackson took home the top honors for outstanding directorial achievement in feature film at the 56th annual DGA Awards Great! No one else deserves it more this year, IMO. Not saying it's my favorite movie, though heads above the other 2, but he more than deserved it. To film 3 movies, at one time, out of sequence, over the course of 5 years can't be beat.

Said Minghella: "There has been a reaction in America and a real campaign to stop movies leaving America to shoot." Best Picture nominees: LOTR - not made in the US Lost in Translation - not made in the US Master & Commander - not made in the US Mystic River - Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval Seabiscuit - All American as Apple Pie Award Weinstein also attacked what he called American "discrimination" against European films and cited an example of how few are seen in the United States. Talk about an idiotic argument by a man who will only drop two copies of foreign films in NY and LA most times. Can't see what you're not given the opportunity to see.

"Said Minghella: "There has been a reaction in America and a real campaign to stop movies leaving America to shoot." He's a bellyacher too. Surprised he didn't blame Bush. Can see why they're disappointed ,CM was my fave over the ones nominated. But what do I know? I see what I like.

Weinstein stopped short of calling it a boycott by voters but said negative press may have resulted in "a move to deny the movie awards." Last week he said the movie failed to get a best picture nod because it was released too late in the year and voters hadn't had a chance to see it. From now on, he said, nothing Oscar-bound goes out later than November. Now he goes to Berlin and changes his story to something that would appeal to the locals. Which is it, Harve? Be a man: there were five movies the voters liked better. The LOTR pics were financed with American studio money--yet no one complained that they were filmed in New Zealand, nor is anyone denying them awards because of it. Too bad the media covering the fest weren't savvy enough to call him on it. BTW, Renee flew in for one day, yesterday. Jude will make a command performance on Wednesday. Harvey always gets his way.

If I remember, for SIL only Colin showed up at the Berlin FF.

You're correct, Evelyn, CF represented SIL. Said Minghella: "There has been a reaction in America and a real campaign to stop movies leaving America to shoot." No shit. Just like there's a campaign in every other country to try to get US movies and TV shows to film there, and they even hand US studios fat tax breaks to do so. Everyone wants to see their people employed--their actors, craftspeople, etc.--plus they want the boom to their local economies--hotels, restaurants, support functions--that a big movie set brings in. Why is it wrong for Americans to want those same things?

(Mari)Harvey always gets his way. Was if for BJD London premiere that he flew Colin in from Rome?

Actually, that would've been Universal's transport, as it had intl distribution for BJD, as it does for TEOR too.

The Sydney Morning Herald - More Cold Mountain - This is cute: Movie violations By Maggie Alderson February 10, 2004 Okay, as we are fast approaching the Academy Awards season, here is a topical quiz: who won the Oscar last year for Best Make-up? What about the year before that? Or the one before that? Bet you don't know - I certainly don't. Which is wrong, because the right slap and hair makes an enormous difference on the big screen. It must do, because when it's bad, it can totally ruin a film. To wit, the movie version of I Capture the Castle (one of my top five all-time favourite books) was destroyed for me by the stupid red wig that Rose Byrne, the Australian actress playing Rose, was forced to wear. Likewise Hermione's ridiculous thatch in the Harry Potter films. The B-52's classic track Wigs was all I could think about when I watched those movies. (It goes like this: "What's that on your head? A wig. Wig! Wig! Wig!" And I make no apologies for mentioning it in this column for the second time. It is legendary.) The thing is, if a wig makes a person's head look as large as a kewpie doll's and if it has a telltale, hide-the-join fringe, a la Sir Elton, you can forget the subtleties and nuances of acting. All you can think is: Wig! Wig! Wig! Then, just last night, Cold Mountain was completely wrecked for me by Nicole Kidman's fingernails. Which was quite an achievement, considering that I am now so in love with Jude Law I might have to desert my family and devote the rest of my life to stalking him. The irony is that his hair and slap totally make the film. You thought he was a cutie as the clean-cut rich kid in The Talented Mr Ripley? Just wait till you see him down and dirty, scarred and bloody as a wounded Confederate soldier. Hoo-wee, pass my fan, Scarlett. You could smell the dirt and sweat on him and I'm first in the queue to... Oh, never mind. Anyway, so there's Jude looking thrillingly filthy, those sensitive pale blue eyes madly emoting out of his unshaven face (oh, God) and along comes Nicole with a perfect manicure and totally ruins the climax of the entire film. I won't destroy the plot for you, in case you haven't seen it yet, but it's fairly common knowledge that the story involves Ms Kidman - or Ada Monroe, as she is called in it - living off the land for several years to survive the American Civil War in a remote mountain settlement. So she's diggin' vegetables, milkin' cows, choppin' wood, killin' hogs, etc, with her bare hands. Yet, she has perfect nails - with top coat. Not much to eat up there in Cold Mountain during the killin' an' the fightin', but clearly an excellent supply of Jessica nail products. She already had me offside in the opening scenes for wearing copious amounts of eye shadow, eyebrow pencil and mascara, which I really don't think they went in for back in the 1860s. Especially not the refined daughters of preacher men. But it was the nails that really did me in. (Possibly, also, because they were touching Jude Law.) Funnily enough, her wigs weren't too distracting, and I liked the way that, even at the beginning, before the war, her hair was a bit flyaway and imperfect, so you got the idea that she - Ada, not Nicole - had done it herself. So what I don't understand is how could they get that right and the make-up so disastrously wrong? Especially as no other woman in the film seemed to be wearing it. The wonderful, wonderful Renee Zellweger looked like she had been sleeping with the hogs throughout the film and I sincerely hope she runs off with the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. Or at least Best Supporting Make-up. This story was found at: http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/02/09/1076175089417.html

Re: Minnie Driver Sweatshop article on CF topic...Driver says she wants corporate leaders to carefully consider their buying practices. Garment workers modeled clothes bearing large tags reading "Made in Cambodia ... by us ... US$0.25 per hour." I'm curious where those ugly pink boots of hers that she wore at Sundance came from. The irony is that his hair and slap totally make the film. You thought he was a cutie as the clean-cut rich kid in The Talented Mr Ripley? Just wait till you see him down and dirty, scarred and bloody as a wounded Confederate soldier. Hoo-wee, pass my fan, Scarlett. You could smell the dirt and sweat on him and I'm first in the queue to... I'm right there with her on this one. He was more attractive in the movie than onscreen to me. Like his hair darker and longer...and with stubble, not that full beard he had a lot. Thanks, Murph, that was cute.

You thought he was a cutie as the clean-cut rich kid in The Talented Mr Ripley? Sorry, but the sweaty Inman doesn't trump a Dickie Greenleaf lying on a beach chair, with a porkpie hat singing Americano, or looking mahvelous anytime else. ;-) ROFLOL Mary! I noticed Nicole's makeup (also thinking it not appropriate for a preacherman's daughter!), but didn't check out her perfect manicure. Must've been tough after killing those hogs with her bare hands. What a woman! ;-)

You'll never get my bloomers off, Mr Darcy - I'd rather do it myself Larushka Ivan-Zadeh enjoyed her Regency era reality TV show - once she had bared all Sunday February 8, 2004 The Observer Volunteers for Channel 4's Regency House Party, inspired by the house party at Netherfield in Pride and Prejudice, could apply to be 'an aspiring Miss Bennett' or 'a dashing Darcy'. For nine weeks we could be ourselves (this was reality TV after all) but must also be our 'Regency selves' - characters who must obey the morals and manners of the time. When I was picked to be part of this bizarre living novel I little realised how dashed difficult that might be. I entered Kentchurch Court, Herefordshire in modern garb - jeans, Converse trainers, waxed hair and vest top - and emerged in full costume as a Regency 'countess'. And I mean full costume. Jane Austen never mentioned knee-length split crotch bloomers, I thought crossly as I struggled to wrap the tapes around my corseted waist; then hyperventilated as I pulled up thigh-high wool stockings. In fact there was a lot Jane hadn't mentioned about Regency life - like the chamber pot in the corner of my boudoir. Luckily, wealthy Mr Everett spotted an advert in our weekly Regency Gazette (our one source of news) and purchased an antique (sorry, new-fangled) flushing loo. I was given a fictional biography based on the person I might have been 200 years ago. Since, on my father's side, I am descended from Russian nobility, I was to re-adopt my ancestral title and be known as 'Countess Griaznov'. She/I had apparently 'lived an exciting life despite my youth' and 'with the confidence of a titled lady' was 'fully aware that you can get away with breaking rules in a way which would cause a girl of less consequence to be dismissed from the house'. However, contrary to appearances, she/I was practically penniless due to my family's financial support of Tsar Alexander. It was imperative this 'shameful fact' remained a secret. Status dictated everything from seating at dinner to the thread count of bedsheets. And being top of the tree wasn't all larks. Since it was 'perfection of good breeding to know your place', hierarchy constrained friendships. Protocol forbade any women to walk alone (unless before breakfast), to interrupt a man, to wear make up, to show our teeth while smiling, to drink unless moderately at dinner, to loll, to smoke (particularly hard on Miss Hopkins who had a pack-a-day habit), to breathe too hard - the list went on. The narrow round of permitted activities: 'a walk around the corridor to view the portraits', needlework, pianoforte practice (to entertain the gentlemen in the evening) was hardly stimulating and quickly exhausted. Six modern independent girls slumped into a Regency lethargy. Relieved of all work and responsibility, most became little girlies who giggled over hot chocolate after lights out (11pm) while I found myself climbing trees like a tomboy. Our infantalising party frocks were more likely to tempt Mr Darcy to give us a balloon and a pat on the head than a proposal of marriage. A battalion of servants catered for our every whim, but after two listless, repressed weeks I wondered why on earth any sane woman would actually want to live in a Jane Austen novel. It felt to me that the only people having real fun at this 'party' were the gentlemen who lived inside a parallel Tom Jones universe of ale for breakfast and endless freedom. Since we were not meant to be alone with a man unchaperoned (though posies were placed on pillows, love notes passed via footmen) there were few opportunities to get to know them except at dinner. Almost by default they became romantically intriguing figures. We would gaze wistfully out from our gilded cage as they hawked by the Temple of Apollo or, for want of excitement, sneak behind bushes and watch them learn to wield sabres on horseback. But otherwise our two fictional lifestyles barely met. This was ridiculous, I thought, as I counted down the hours until dinner - I'd come to the Regency seeking escapism and adventure and it was time I found it. When a director suggested I recreate Lady Caroline Lamb's daring stunt of serving herself up naked as dessert at Lord Melbourne's birthday I barely hesitated. Until now the naughtiest thing I'd done in the House was sniff snuff with Miss Conick in the Billiard Room. As I lay on the candlelit dining table, my body covered only by sugar, fruits and the odd exotic peacock plume, I knew I'd leapt not just outside the restraints of Regency protocol but into the utterly fantastical life of 'countess'. From then on I demanded to do the fun stuff I'd only watched the gentlemen play at: pistol shooting, riding, and drinking Madeira. I rebelliously tanned myself and, disguised as a boy I learnt to sabre-fight. Gossip items appeared about me in our Regency newspapers. It was strangely exhilarating, like being the heroine of my own novel. Of course, no woman really controlled her life story in the Regency. Not least because one in three women died in childbirth. 'Marriage', as my character profile had told me from the start, 'is the only honourable career open to a lady, the only means by which she can increase her wealth.' At 27, my impoverished countess was 'only too aware of the fact that a woman of nine and twenty left unwed can never hope to feel or inspire affection again'. So much for storybook escapism. From the first I'd seen 'countess' mainly as my Modesty Blaise alter ego. Nine weeks on, and faced with a final round of match-making, she stood before me as a real Regency woman who desperately needed to marry money before her poverty was 'exposed' in the national press. Did I live happily ever after? You'll just have to wait and see. � Regency House Party starts on C4 on 14 Feb.

Karen says: Sorry, but the sweaty Inman doesn't trump a Dickie Greenleaf lying on a beach chair, with a porkpie hat singing Americano, or looking mahvelous anytime else. ;-) I agree. Dickie Greenleaf was sublime. I listened to the Ripley sound track again the other day. He and Matt had such fun with Americano. I imagine his upcoming role in Closer will give him a chance to be cute - and raunchy!

Top ASC nod to Schwartzman By Sheigh Crabtree Thanks for the article about Regency House. Wonder if they ladies were told about wetting down their bodices? ;-) ************ Now this was is rather surprising... "Seabiscuit" director of photography John Schwartzman found himself in the winner's circle at the 18th annual American Society of Cinematographers Outstanding Achievement Awards gala Sunday night at the Century Plaza Hotel. Schwartzman, ASC nominated for "Pearl Harbor" in 2002, was one of two American DPs along with John Toll ("The Last Samurai"), nominated in a five-film race that included three Australians: Russell Boyd for "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World," Andrew Lesnie for New Line Cinema's "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King," and John Seale for Miramax's "Cold Mountain."

Karen says: Sorry, but the sweaty Inman doesn't trump a Dickie Greenleaf lying on a beach chair, with a porkpie hat singing Americano, or looking mahvelous anytime else. ;-) Yeah, he was gorgeous in TMR (and in every other film he's made including W), but IMHO, shallow Dickie doesn't hold a candle to honorable Inman. JL's portrayals of both were perfection, but there was so much more to Inman for him to capture - and he did in every sweaty, bearded scene;)

Shall we take the debate over "shallowness" and other character flaws over to Jude's topic? ;-) http://www.spring.net/yapp-bin/restricted/read/drool/144/new

Don't know if anyone from UK has posted here about "Angels in America" which we had this weekend past. You all had it early Dec. right? I was glued to the video and then the tape ran out boo hoo :-(( Anyone tell me how it ended after Harper was on the plane chasing the moon across America? Guess I only missed a few minutes. Thanks.

Personal view - Kudos to them! From Movie City News: Statement Re: Tape Delay From AMPAS President Frank Pierson At their February 3 Board meeting, the Academy governors considered a request from the ABC network to impose a five-second delay on the telecast of the 76th Academy Awards that would allow the network to delete unscripted and objectionable language from the show. The Academy Awards have never been subject to a tape-delay, and in fact have a 50-year track record of maintaining high standards of taste and decorum. The governors found themselves balancing a pair of crucial concerns. Even a very brief tape-delay introduces a form of censorship into the broadcast - not direct governmental control, but it means that a network representative is in effect guessing at what a government might tolerate, which can be even worse. There was also a concern about just how slippery a slope the Academy might be setting its foot on. This year's five-second delay would be aimed at individual words. Once the principle of a delay has been accepted though, how much broader a scope might be sought in subsequent years, and how long before not only words, but ideas become subject to deletion? The First Amendment concerns were weighed against the Academy's own longstanding objective of offering a tasteful, sophisticated event which parents can encourage their children to watch without concerns about elements of coarseness. The threat of massive fines of dubious legality present ABC with a serious financial, legal and moral dilemma, and we're sympathetic with them. But our resolve is absolute. A "live" show is either alive or not. Free speech is free or it is not. Viewers are free to use their remote or Tivo. Parents are responsible or they are not. The Academy has no contractual ability to refuse the network's decision to bow to government pressure. But we cannot endorse a delay. We will present the show live, a celebration of achievement, with a little glitz, a little glamour, as always. If it comes with a bleep, we are all losers.

But it seems.... Oscar Delay Won't Deter Political Remarks 1 hour, 24 minutes ago By ANTHONY BREZNICAN, AP Entertainment Writer LOS ANGELES - The producer and director of the upcoming Oscar telecast said the ABC's 5-second delay will be used to shield viewers from any unlikely profanity or nudity � but will not interfere with any political statements winners may make. The safeguard measure for the Academy Awards (news - web sites) is the latest fallout from the uproar over Janet Jackson (news)'s breast-baring Super Bowl performance, which has provoked an investigation by the Federal Communications Commission (news - web sites). "At the nominees luncheon yesterday, I spoke with the nominees and just said that, when they come up, they're all under this microscope, unfortunately, because of these events a couple weeks ago," Oscar telecast producer Joe Roth told reporters Tuesday. Asked if the delay could be used to block political statements � like documentary filmmaker Michael Moore (news)'s scathing criticism last year of President Bush (news - web sites), which drew both cheers and boos from the theater audience � Roth responded: "No, it applies to the use of profanity." The producer, who's head of Revolution Studios, said he wants to encourage a sense of freedom and spontaneity � as long as winners are interesting and generally wholesome, he won't seek to interrupt their speeches. ABC always maintains a watch over its live events, said Oscar telecast director Louis J. Horvitz, who has worked on the show eight times previously. "ABC standards-and-practices has always gone out on the red carpet and looked at the gowns the women are wearing and I'm sure if a guy's coming in with a jock strap they might say something, like `When you photograph him on his entrance would you do a waist(-up) shot," Horvitz joked. But it's happened before. In 1974, David Niven (news)'s Oscar introduction of Elizabeth Taylor (news) was suddenly interrupted as a naked trespasser flashing a peace sign raced past him onstage. Niven famously quipped to the audience: "Just think, the only laugh that man will probably ever get is for stripping and showing off his shortcomings." More innocently, sometimes an actress shows up in a dress that becomes see-through in the bright stage lights � which is what happened to an embarrassed Meryl Streep (news) at the recent Golden Globe Awards (news - web sites). Horvitz said he can deal with that through tighter close-ups or adjusted lighting without cutting or blocking the image. The Academy Awards are set for broadcast from Hollywood's Kodak Theatre on Feb. 29. Billy Crystal (news) has signed on as host.

Wasn't this one of the projects that was broughtup briefly just a few weeks ago as one that maybe Colin could do, until Hola said Dennis Quaid was set? Look who he would have had the pleasure of working with again. ;-) Selma Blair, David Paymer Find 'Synergy' in Comedy Wed Feb 11, 3:59 AM ET By Borys Kit LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Selma Blair (news), Clark Gregg, Philip Baker Hall (news) and David Paymer have signed on to appear in "Synergy," a comedy from "American Pie" filmmakers the Weitz brothers. The Universal Pictures project follows the uneasy relationship between a 50-year-old businessman (Dennis Quaid (news)) and his new 26-year-old boss (Topher Grace (news)). The younger boss is having an affair with the older man's daughter (Scarlett Johansson (news)). Blair will play Grace's unhappy wife, whom he has just wed, while Gregg will appear as Grace's boss, who wants Quaid fired. Hall portrays the head of an auto-supply chain that Quaid is trying to get as a client, while Paymer has been set as Quaid's co-worker, who has his own set of insecurities. Paul Weitz will direct from his script, with Chris Weitz handling producing chores. Blair, who recently wed Ahmet Zappa, next appears in "Hellboy." Her other credits include "The Sweetest Thing" and "Cruel Intentions." Gregg's recent credits include "State and Main," "We Were Soldiers" and "Lovely & Amazing." He also wrote "What Lies Beneath." Hall's numerous credits include "Bruce Almighty," "The Talented Mr. Ripley," "Magnolia" and "Boogie Nights." Paymer is appearing as a mobster in ABC's "Line of Fire" and will make his television directorial debut on an upcoming episode of "Everwood." Reuters/Hollywood Reporter

Thanks for the articles are the Oscar broadcast in the wake of Nipplegate. Idiocy, udder idiocy. ;-) Glad they voted against a delay. Excellent article in this week's Time, entitled The Hypocrisy Bowl. (Dorine) Look who he would have had the pleasure of working with again. ;-) That was another indication to me that he *wouldn't* be in this.

Glad they voted against a delay But ABC has the final word, and from the article Dorine posted, they're going with the delay. What a craven bunch. I hope Billy Crystal rips them to shreds. I personally don't know anyone who gives a damn about JJ's boob. And shame on the media for giving it all this attention--which is, of course, exactly why she did it in the first place. The need to fill news network airtime 24/7 is partly to blame.

(Mari) I hope Billy Crystal rips them to shreds. Yes, another thing to look forward to. ;-) Perhaps by the time of the telecast, ABC will have backed off. I liked the statement they made. (Mari) And shame on the media for giving it all this attention And bigger shame on the government for wasting my tax dollars investigating this. Here's the Time article: The Hypocrisy Bowl A sunburst exposes the game's sex-sells ethos. Let the bogus outrage and culture wars begin! By JAMES PONIEWOZIK It was meant to be a super Sunday like any other. About 143 million people gathered to enjoy a wholesome evening of giant men knocking the living hell out of one another, cheered on by busty dancing women in skimpy uniforms, with occasional messages from crude talking animals entreating them to buy intoxicants. Instead, something offensive happened. In a jaw-dropping denouement to the MTV-produced halftime show, Justin Timberlake sang, "I gotta have you naked by the end of this song," reached across Janet Jackson's black leather bustier and exposed � well, yes. But he exposed more than that. What the Super Bowl incident (Nipplegate? Boobytrap? The Tempest in a C Cup?) also revealed was the hypocrisies of the entertainment and sports industries, the commercial culture and even the viewing public. After what Timberlake euphemized with the NASA-like "wardrobe malfunction," the accusations flew like flags on a late hit. The NFL blamed CBS and MTV. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) blamed the networks not just for the "reveal" but also for a halftime show that included rapper Nelly grabbing his crotch and sexual grinding between Timberlake and Jackson. The networks blamed Jackson, who said she cooked up the stunt at the last minute. Nonetheless, after the game the MTV website crowed that "fans of Janet Jackson and her pasties were definitely in the right place." (Actually, Jackson's right breast was adorned by a metal "nipple shield," the event's other gift to the lexicon.) Jackson apologized but blamed her outfit; she said it was supposed to reveal a red bra, which "collapsed." The defenseless undergarment, alas, could not speak up for itself. The league said, however, that it had concerns about the tone of the show, and Timberlake's song, that MTV never addressed. "MTV did not live up to their end of the deal," said NFL executive vice president Joe Browne. "They told us, 'We'll address your concerns,' and then things never changed." But MTV Networks chairman and CEO Tom Freston said the league and the networks together reviewed the songs, costumes and choreography. He noted that MTV also produced the halftime show three years ago. "If you go back and look," he said, "you'll see the artists doing similar types of music with similar choreography. You even have guys in 'N Sync doing crotch grabbing. But none of it fell under the microscope." (CBS executives refused requests to speak for this story.) MTV can make a case that the show, minus the pop-out, was not beyond the pale for TV. Just look how far MTV has moved the pale. At its Video Music Awards (V.M.A.), rapper Lil' Kim has sported a pastie-accessorized outfit that showed no less than Jackson, while Britney Spears has stripped down to a flesh-colored body stocking and has kissed Madonna on her publicity-hungry lips. And MTV has what CBS and the NFL want badly: young, especially young male, viewers. The Super Bowl fiasco showed how tough it is to assemble a giant mainstream spectacle for today's niched audience. Even the audience reaction ranged from deep offense to bemusement. Bill Cleaver, of Pittsboro, N.C., watched the performance with his wife Julia and their daughter Annie, 10. "I'm not a Boy Scout," he said, "but I know in public what is appropriate manners and what is vulgarity." Then again, TiVo, the digital-video-recorder maker, said the event was the most replayed ever among its users. In a TIME/CNN poll, 47% of respondents said the incident marked "a new low in bad taste"; yet 68% said the government should not fine CBS. Attempting to please a torn audience has put all the big networks through growing, or rather shrinking, pains. Under fire from conservatives, CBS last year canceled its mini-series The Reagans, although it claimed the cancellation was not caused by the pressure. This, combined with the network's apparent quid pro quo offer to Jessica Lynch � a host of Viacom deals in exchan e for her story of capture in Iraq � and reports of a similar offer to obtain a Michael Jackson interview, has put CBS's credibility at a low point. But you can't eat credibility, and CBS is the most watched network on TV largely because it has rejuvenated its audience with edgier shows. Survivor is MTV's The Real World redone as a game show, and 33 million people watched the post � Super Bowl debut of Survivor: All-Stars, with the return of player Richard Hatch, who spent much of the episode nude (albeit pixelated). CSI, TV's most popular drama, may be the goriest show in broadcast. So what's a ratings-greedy mogul to do? The answer, say some TV insiders: Be very afraid. The scandal awakened the FCC, which had been lenient on both standards and corporate consolidation under chairman Michael Powell but announced an investigation into the halftime show. This week House and Senate committees will hold hearings on broadcast decency. So the story swung from action (video delays instituted on the Grammy and Oscar ceremonies) to overreaction. Under pressure from affiliates, NBC cut a scene from Thursday's ER that briefly showed the breast of an 80-year-old heart-attack patient. "I think our viewers are intelligent enough to make their own decision as to whether their children should watch or not," complained executive producer John Wells. Hollywood is a favorite target in election years (in '92, Dan Quayle vs. Murphy Brown; in '96, Bob Dole vs. Ice-T; in 2000, Joseph Lieberman vs. Eminem). But some in the industry cheer the Super Bowl investigation. "I think everybody should be fined," said Vin di Bona, executive producer of Americ 's Funniest Home Videos. "The networks, the artists, and if you really want to clean it up, fine the local broadcasters." The government's investigating a one-second flash as though it were the Iran-contra scandal does seem a bit preposterous. Whatever is turned up, the crimes were committed long before, and by many hands. The NFL, for instance, has not exactly been dainty in courting those vaunted 18-to-34-year-old men; before the indecent exposure, it was parading the bodacious Coors Light twins like game trophies. If the league has expressed any reservations about the sponsors' objectifying messages, it has been hard to hear them. (Asked about the beer-ad and cheerleader culture, NFL'S Browne demurred, "Let's stay on the halftime.") And if the NFL knew what it was getting � and wanted � from MTV, the music network's corporate sib CBS has even less reason to be shocked, shocked. MTV's defense is that it was betrayed by an attention-seeking artist looking to jump-start her career. But MTV is a prime mover in a celebrity culture in which young female singers and actresses, however accomplished, increasingly have to go near-naked � on the V.M.A.s, in videos, on the covers of Maxim, Stuff and FHM � if they want to keep their CDs moving, their ratings up and their movies packed. Now MTV says it got played? It helped invent the game. Meanwhile, some of MTV's culture-warrior critics are eager to leverage public outrage to push their own agendas. "This is going to change things � finally," said Phil Burress, president of Citizens for Community Values, a conservative Ohio advocacy group. The Parents Television Council called on the FCC to fine NBC affiliates if they ran the uncut ER episode. "American families," said council president Brent Bozell, "are disgusted by this unnecessary nudity on broadcast television." They are? ER ran an episode last October that included an elderly woman's breasts � and reran it the week before the Super Bowl � without a public outcry. Back in 1977, ABC aired bare breasts in the classic mini-series Roots. The Jackson stunt was juvenile, but so is the all-boobies-are-dirty equivalence. (Not to mention the silly anatomical parsing it leads to: Are nipples seen through an Oscars gown O.K.? Nipples covered by metal? Bottom of breast? Side?) The message from the TV industry's critics resonates with parents who feel attacked by pop culture's sexuality and are concerned about raising kids with appropriate values. But one such value is accepting personal responsibility. To have seen the ambush-by-mammary, you had to have sat through the entire, supposedly not-fit-for-families halftime show. Argues TV producer David Salzman: "It's like being a pacifist and complaining when you watch a World Wrestling Entertainment event." That didn't stop a Knoxville, Tenn., lawyer from filing a class action on behalf of Super Bowl viewers, claiming "outrage" and "serious injury." From lunging to avoid Jackson's nipple? We spent too much time last week talking about the what of the "malfunction" and relatively little about the how. Even at MTV's risque V.M.A. shows, the naughty acts usually involve women artists taking off their own clothesthat is, controlling their sexuality. Jackson's flashing was not, despite press descriptions, a "striptease." It was Timberlake ripping off her cup and exposing a breast to hang out like a chuck roast as she cowered in real or feigned shame. It wasn't erotic; it was violent. It wasn't adult; it was preadolescent. It wasn't sexual; it was a choreographed sexual assault. Two microns of red lace over Jackson's areola wouldn't have made that any better. That's the thing about obscenity: you can't find it on an anatomical chart. It's about context and tone, a subtle and very subjective judgment. Arguably, Jackson's lightning flash was no more offensive than several ads that ran during the Super Bowl and focused on humiliation, especially sexual humiliation, especially of women. In spots for Bud Light, a woman on a date was farted on by a horse; another was hit on by a horny monkey. Is this kind of TV crudity going to wane after the Jackson incident? Absolutely. Just as surely as Columbine ended screen violence, the Who Wants to Marry a Multi-Millionaire? scandal finished reality TV and the Sept. 11 attacks killed irony. Betting against the transgressiveness of pop culture is like shorting the market: you may be right for a period, but over time you will lose. Even if the FCC does leash the big networks meaningfully � a long shot � viewers remain free to go to cable. "It's acceptable for Tiger Woods to curse on ESPN," notes NBC Entertainment president Jeff Zucker, "but not on NBC at the same golf tournament." If the viewers go, the ratings pressures will return. And with them? Bring on the bursting corsets! In a way, Justin and Janet did us a favor. They spelled out the subtext of the game and its surrounding culture. A culture that tells young men they can't formulate a thought deeper than "Show us your tits." A culture that pushes young women to put out for the market, then ridicules them when they do. A culture swinging between cynical sex-sells greed and moral parentalism. A culture obsessed by, and terrified of, a human organ that gives sustenance to babies. And a culture that apparently can't tell the difference between contextually appropriate nudity and a rape fantasy. By the end of Jackson and Timberlake's song, that culture was naked.

" And if the NFL knew what it was getting ? and wanted ? from MTV, the music network's corporate sib CBS has even less reason to be shocked,.. Truer words have never been spoken... Let's face it.."coarseness" is in. And we all stand by and applaud it.

'Master and Commander' Wins British Critics' Awards LONDON (Reuters) - "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World" sailed to victory at the London Film Critics' Circle awards Wednesday, beating Oscar favorite "Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" to the best film title. The sea-faring tale also scooped prizes for Paul Bettany (news) as best British actor, and for John Collee and Peter Weir (news) as best screenwriters. "The British are an island race, which is probably why 'Master and Commander', a rip roaring tale of life at sea in the age of sail, swept the board in our awards," said William Russell, chairman of the Critics' Circle. Just days before Sunday's Baftas, known as the British Oscars (news - web sites), the Americans also scored well, with Clint Eastwood (news) taking the best director accolade and Sean Penn (news) named best actor for U.S. murder story "Mystic River." British romance "Love Actually" took some honors with Emma Thompson (news) winning best British actress in a supporting role and Bill Nighy scooping best British actor in a supporting role. But despite being tipped for Oscar glory after winning four U.S. Golden Globe awards (news - web sites) last month, the final installment of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy was overlooked by the 100 British critics who make up the Critics' Circle.

I'm good today..... Move from 187 (Karen)"Smut," of course. ;-) For filth (I'm glad to say) is in the mind of the beholder. When correctly viewed, Everything is lewd. (I could tell you things about Peter Pan, And the Wizard of Oz, there's a dirty old man!) LOL! and I thought it was gonna be: Everybody Eat (?) Everybody eat! Every niece and every nephew even if you're deaf you'll hear them digest. Kiddie's by the dozen from local zoos Someone's second cousin but god knows whose. Everybody feed For example there's an uncle who when he's drunk'll be a real pest. And cousin Julia is actin' childish to put it mildish. Hey you kids I don't know who just did that but it's gross Then Al begins to smoke and tells a dirty joke when Grandma's comatose. Oh everybody's swill. And put up with uncle Gordon video recordin' everyone here. Now they've all gone away And we're so happy to say They won't be back for a year. But I love Smut and New Math. Wish he would make a comeback!

For those of you who were highly impressed by Oliver James, Colin's soccer-watching buddy in WAGW, you might be interested to know what he's up to. His next movie is with another teen queen, Amanda Bynes' rival Hilary Duff, in Heart of Summer, currently in production. It's set in a performing arts high school, so he'll probably play a similar character, romancing the teen girl and singing. Guess he's found a very lucrative niche.

Poor guy. He'll be stuck in that muck. He's got more talent than that ...like YKW.

And both of them look good on a motorbike.

Poor guy. He'll be stuck in that muck. Oliver is an unknown actor to anyone who hasn't seen WAGW, his first and only significant professional job. Whether he can go beyond being the "cute guy in a Hillary Duff/Amanda Bynes film" remains to be seen, but at this point in his career the main thing is to be given the opportunity to show his stuff. I was beginning to think he wasn't going anywhere at all, but this is a big boost for his career. Not every actor can have Another Country as a springboard. Even Johnny Depp started in 21 Jump Street, and he didn't too badly...

Another British crime drama starts tonight on A&E. They're calling it "With Malice," but I gathered it aired in the UK as "M.I.T." (Murder Investigation Team). Not much on the A&E website, but here's info: http://www.memorabletv.com/onthebox/profiles/mit.htm

FYI Oliver James has appeared with the RSC. There are greater things in an actor's life than appearing in a Hilary Duff movie. But I bow to your conclusions. What do I know?