NAN: I much prefer the older Colin than the little boy in Another Country. He is definitely improving with age. So do I, Nan - I like the "little boy", but I looove the mature man. Not to sound like a broken record, but I think he's aging really well. Oooh, I like that too. But while his face is angelic, his eyes are the very picture of devilish mirth ;-.) Yeah, you know how I'd love to get in trouble with him...I'm glad he's not so angelic looking anymore. ;-) RENATE: Oooops! Don't laugh! Before you say anything: yes, the decision whether he looks more adorable as the angelic youth or the mature man was too much for me. I passed out, accidently hitting the response button before my fingers slipped over the edge of the table...... LOL! Completely understandable, Renate, what a delicious debate! I'm sorry to be leaving as things are getting very interesting, but tomorrow we're heading up to Monterey (CA) for a long weekend away. I'll be back and ready to drool with you on Monday!

NAN: I've read your stories at the RoP fan fic and I know you are capable Oh, I get it: you're a fan... Thanks. I AM capable, even if I say so myself (echoes of "I don't have to try - I AM clever...") Trouble is - I'm also lazy and disorganized. I'll try to produce something, but I can't say when. Might not be so soon. check out that ST fan fic site and you'll immediately understand why I said you weren't "capable of producing that trash." You really think I'm not capable of producing whatever trash I might fancy? (All right: another elegant compliment, I grant you. Thanks, but try not to overdo it...;-)) RENATE: the 1988 Prix Italia - Ecco! Ha! Yes, I believe that also explains the firth L'Uomo cover Enough, madam? Not really I also remember that Lawrence's girlfriend was very incensed about the way she was portrayed. She insisted she had tried to help him but he was a changed man: he maintained it was she who had changed... all rather sad, really. your opinion on the film, now that I have watched it myself In a nutshell: a powerful, controversial, shocking anti-war piece. Do you have favourite scenes? Not really: watching the film gives me a cold, numbing feeling. I wouldn't want to return to it, if not for Colin - his performance is a masterpiece, he sort of cascades through it, tumbles relentlessly from top to bottom, so to speak. He said it had exhausted him mentally, but he'd love to play another role like that. the decision whether he looks more adorable as the angelic youth or the mature man was too much for me. I passed out... LOL! How very true, except I never faint. I've watched Dutch Girls again recently and , you know, oh, those eyes are just wonderful. He was beautiful when he was younger and he's exquisitely handsome as he's growing older. BTW, it's his 37th birthday next week, I hope everyone has sent him a card!

ARAMI: Trouble is - I'm also lazy and disorganized. I'll try to produce something, but I can't say when. Might not be so soon. As I said before, no pressure...whenever the mood strikes you dear. :-.) You really think I'm not capable of producing whatever trash I might fancy? Oh, no! I didn't say THAT! ;-.) The difference is that if you were to produce such trash, you'd do it on purpose. You'd know it was trash, which I don't think is the case with those ST fan fics...that's the scary part. :-.)

HURRAH! Only 2 hours anymore until Fever Pitch!!! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ARAMI: In a nutshell: Who wants nutshells when it comes to Colin? Give us coconuts, nay, water-melons, huge and juicy... :-)) watching the film gives me a cold, numbing feeling. I wouldn't want to return to it, if not for Colin - his performance is a masterpiece, I have watched it now several times, and as it is when you know a film very well you start to see isolated scenes instead of the whole. So it has lost a lot of the gruesomeness in favour of my appreciation for Colin's - and other actor's - performance. F.e. I like to see "Lady Catherine" (Barbara Leigh-Hunt as his mother) in this sympathetic role, and I think Paul Rhys' performance was very good, and he has a VERY good voice. but he'd love to play another role like that. Wish he'll get some offers for stuff he can bite his teeth into.... I'd love to see him as a really evil and nasty character... such as Amon Goeth in Schindlers List, f.e.. I never faint. I only faint for Colin. Exclusively. He was beautiful when he was younger and he's exquisitely handsome as he's growing older. ...... where's my smelling salt!!? BTW, it's his 37th birthday next week, I hope everyone has sent him a card! Eeeek! Not yet!

...some hours later.... "I HAVE SEEN IT! FEVER PITCH!, AND I LOVE IT, AND COLIN IS GORGEOUS!"

RENATE: "I HAVE SEEN IT! FEVER PITCH!, AND I LOVE IT, AND COLIN IS GORGEOUS!" No fair!! ;-.p So? Tell me more--I'm living vicariously through you at this moment. Details, we want details! ;-.)

NAN:whenever the mood strikes you It's not the mood, it's the time I need. RENATE:I'd love to see him as a really evil and nasty character That's precisely why I had unreasonably high hopes watching the first half of Playmaker - he had some brilliant moments there IMO. AND NOW TALK TO THE FIRTHSTARVED WORLD ABOUT FEVER PITCH!

You are completely right, I must share my pleasure with someone. As soon as I found time I sat down and wrote down my first impressions of Fever Pitch. It is a funny, intelligent, screwball comedy-romance. Colin - don't know exactly what I expected, but - - - I was stunned how gorgeous he looks, in a very unobtrusive way as the 'unmade bed', different again from any other of his roles I have seen. It was only a few minutes into the film that I caught myself contemplating if I should buy TWO tapes as soon as it comes out on video - anticipating that I would probably wear out the first one over the weekend. It will be a serious challenge for the "rewind" and "freeze-frame" function on your remote control. To see him on a large screen (for me the only time before was TEP) was a new and pleasant experience. His physical presence just renders (voc?) much better, if you get my meaning ...he's tall, he's energetic, he's badly shaved, has no haircut to speak of, but it's dark, and his eyebrows are too, and all those baggy shirts and trousers look so good on him - .... I'm afraid I've caught the Ashworth-fever. And what do you mean, Colin: "Your thighs don't have the same impact in boxer-shorts?" The camera just oes not leave time enough to allow a permanent impression... Colin's dubbed German voice was not so bad after all, didn't spoil the fun. And it is really strange to see Mr Knightley and Mr Darcy arm in arm together in the mad hooligan crowd or about to fall of the sofa and ROTF. As I said before, he looks different again, but I will try a description: Paul is visually and temperamentwise somewhere between Mr Darcy and Stephen Walby with much of the lighter note of Richard Courtois. He is a very gentle man, not too good to express his emotions verbally, but with the best intentions. He would be the perfect man of the nineties if it were not for his soccer-mania. Sarah and Paul have a lot in common with Elisabeth and Darcy. They are antagonistic. And they both have a long way to go to meet. Ruth Gemmell has a lot of good lines, is very sympathetic as Sarah, and easy to identify with. Particularly when they are snogging. Highly recommended. Because I liked the music in the film, I bought the soundtrack CD - the music is, honestly, rather underwhelming, but there are several passages of Colin speaking. Great.

Heeeelllllllooooooo! Heeeelllllllllllllllllooooohooo! Anybody there????????

RENATE: I'm heeeeeereeeee!!! ;-.D

Well, I have to leave in some minutes, to watch Fever Pitch again. It's the third time. No, I have never denied I'm addicted. But then this is a kind of addiction that does not damage the health, at least. :-))

Lucky Renate! Is your perception changing with every new viewing? Are there any new impressions you'd wish to share? Or is it just sweet indulgence, pure and simple?...

ARAMI: It's not the mood, it's the time I need. I am in touch with that emotion...:-.) RENATE: It is a funny, intelligent, screwball comedy-romance. Screwball? Really, that's not what I expected either. I was stunned how gorgeous he looks, in a very unobtrusive way as the 'unmade bed', That jealousy thing of mine is starting again... It will be a serious challenge for the "rewind" and "freeze-frame" function on your remote control. THAT much droolworthiness exists? (angrily stomping my foot) has no haircut to speak of, but it's dark, and his eyebrows are too LOL! The eyebrows again...:-.) And what do you mean, Colin: "Your thighs don't have the same impact in boxer-shorts?" The camera just does not leave time enough to allow a permanent impression... Well, when you get that tape home and do the "freeze frame" thing, you can tell us about that. But I tend to agree with you, his thighs look fine, whatever he's wearing. Colin's dubbed German voice was not so bad after all, didn't spoil the fun. That's because your ears weren't working from all the blood rushing to your head! ;-.p If you liked it this much with someone else's voice, can you imagine how you'd feel if you could hear his glorious voice as well? *sigh* He is a very gentle man, not too good to express his emotions verbally, but with the best intentions. He would be the perfect man of the nineties if it were not for his soccer-mania. Actually the sports addiction is probably what makes him most like any guy I know. Then again, it is a common affliction in America--NY in particular. Particularly when they are snogging. I'll bet! ;-.D But is it really "snogging" or the usual film kissing thing. The meaning of the word "snogging" as it was related to me is a really deep, tonsil-touching kind of thing (Is that right Arami?) and too frequently I find movie kisses unsatisfying. I think that's why I liked "Bull Durham" so much--no pretty, fake, trick-the-viewer kind of kissing in that film! See, now that I know you liked it I'm even more jealous. Since our tastes in films tend to be similar, I know I'd like it now. Okay--who can I bribe to get it released in the US? :-.)

Nan, why do you seem to think I'm an expert on snogging :-)? Oh, all right, then. I've double-checked my sources (no, I didn't go snogging, I just looked it up) and it appears it simply means kissing and cuddling. Nothing about licking each other's tonsils, I'm afraid. As for film kissing/snogging, i can't remember ever having seen a real kiss on screen (I must have seen one or two, I just can't remember it) and especially not performed by Colin. Even when Darcy kisses Lizzy at the end of P&P, it's not " eal". And there are now trailers and various publicity shots from A Thousand Acres showing Colin kissing Jessica Lange - and again, you can see the detailed mechanics of a classic film snog: he invariably goes for her upper lip and she sucks on his lower one. Colin does it expertly (Ruth Gemmell had some praise for him on that count), but to a seasoned filmgoer it still shows. And now tell me the truth - WHERE IS EVERYBODY??? (Except for you and Renate, that is.)

ARAMI: #Are there any new impressions you'd wish to share? Or is it just sweet indulgence, pure and simple?... It's indulgence, sweet, yes, simple, yes, pure, no. :-)=)... Again: in none of his films I have seen he seemed so tall and 'physical' to me. And very 'real'. Arami, what was your impression then? How did you like him as Paul? Ah, and Arami, some time ago I said that he is bow-legged. I have to apologize. He is not. He just walks as if he were. I got this impression from how he walked from the parsonage back to Rosings, and he 'looked' really bow-legged. Meanwhile I have seen him in several other films, and particularly FP removed my doubts in this respect. His legs are fine, and I think he looks very good in his Arsenal boxer shorts. And by now I know what you mean with 'long strides' and gushing over his walk. Got it. :-)) This third time I went with two friends. They did not like the movie. The one hates soccer anyway (why did she come along at all?), and the other one said all was too predictable. To be honest, I have no idea how I would like the film if it were without Colin, but I am still amused by the story at the third time. NAN: #Screwball? Really, that's not what I expected either. Well, probably I got carried away a bit. It has elements of it, the witty dialogues, but I suppose it's not fast enough, if I get it right what a screwball comedy is. Let's call it a "fussball-comedy". (Fussball = 'soccer' in German) ## It will be a serious challenge for the "rewind" and "freeze-frame" function on your remote control. # THAT much droolworthiness exists? (angrily stomping my foot) (Don't hurt yourself, dear) Yes, but it has also to do with the brevity (alas!) of the love scenes. But there's a lot of close-ups and head-to-toe frames, droolworthy enough. # Actually the sports addiction is probably what makes him most like any guy I know. ...but he does not scratch his head nor his - eh - head. Not even if he has to recite Byron. #But is it really "snogging" or the usual film kissing thing. The meaning of the word "snogging" as it was related to me is a really deep, tonsil-touching kind of thing In this sense it is no snogging, I'm afraid. Understated. It's rather tender-passionate, at least what we get to see - what is not much. We have to use our imagination. And somehow I like that. Many film kisses I find not only unsatisfying (see below, :-) ) but rather embarassing, and seldom good to look at. I just wonder, did we ever see him doing that tonsill-thing? I cannot remember right now. # and too frequently I find movie kisses unsatisfying. They are, particularly as one is usually not one of the two persons actively involved. :-.))

Hi Ladies, I am always here (except last week when I was in Wash.D.C.) but I must say this new format is somewhat confusing to a newbie such as I. I can't comment on Fever Pitch except to say that WHEN ARE WE GOING TO GET TO SEE IT IN THE U.S.??? I have been seeing some adds for Thousand Acres and there should be some interviews. I think Michelle P. is going to be on Rosie next week,don't know which day, and I am sure she is there to talk about the film. As for snogging, a term which I had never heard before recently, I thought it meant alot more than kissing. Anyway, Colin does a pretty convincing job of kissing and so much more in the Advocate. I wish he had shown more of that passion for Lizzy in P&P! Sorry to go on but I also wanted to say that after I read Colin's interview in Vogue, I thought it was neat that he said that he was more like Darcy than he had imagined. That Darcy stayed with him long after it was over. Still here, Chey

Arami, Renata--rosie's here! Have been for a while. Enjoying your posts quite a bit, wishing I had something as interesting to contribute. Memories I may have had to offer about the last thing I saw--previews of 1000 Acres--have totally vanished. Overall good impression left, however.

ARAMI: Nan, why do you seem to think I'm an expert on snogging :-)? LOL! I asked you because you're actually here (unlike others!) and I remember you once mentioning that you were in England. But come to think of it, I expect that all us heavy droolers have done enough "snogging" (the tonsil kind) to be able to recognize a good one when we see it :-.D I've double-checked my sources (no, I didn't go snogging, I just looked it up) Bummer! First hand experience is always so much more fun :-.) and it appears it simply means kissing and cuddling. Nothing about licking each other's tonsils, I'm afraid. That's it--my friend Victoria is getting a call from me! Now I wonder if all those other British words she translated were accurate as well. As for film kissing/snogging, i can't remember ever having seen a real kiss on screen (I must have seen one or two, I just can't remember it) I'm tellin' ya, Bull Durham--bathtub scene...trust me. and especially not performed by Colin. Even when Darcy kisses Lizzy at the end of P&P, it's not "real". Yes, I've looked for that too. Never been able to find one either, not even Femme Fatale. And there are now trailers and various publicity shots from A Thousand Acres showing Colin kissing Jessica Lange - and again, you can see the detailed mechanics of a classic film snog: he invariably goes for her upper lip and she sucks on his lower one. I hate that! Really ruins a sexy mood. Colin does it expertly (Ruth Gemmell had some praise for him on that count), but to a seasoned filmgoer it still shows. Or to anyone who is as desperate as I am to see him slurp. :-.D And now tell me the truth - WHERE IS EVERYBODY??? (Except for you and Renate, that is.) Dunno. I think more people read than post. So what do we have to do to get a crowd in here anyway?

RENATE: Ah, and Arami, some time ago I said that he is bow-legged. I thought he was too. To be honest, I have no idea how I would like the film if it were without Colin, but I am still amused by the story at the third time. I assume these friends are not Colin fans? I think they need a heavy dose of P&P2 and then you can take them back to FP. I'd be interested to know their impressions then. :-.) if I get it right what a screwball comedy is. Yep, you got it right. When you said screwball I had visions of Laurel and Hardy! :-.D ##THAT much droolworthiness exists? (angrily stomping my foot) #(Don't hurt yourself, dear) Oh but I WANT to see it too! :-.D Don't worry, you'll stomp your foot too, after September 19th. :-.) Yes, but it has also to do with the brevity (alas!) of the love scenes. But there's a lot of close-ups and head-to-toe frames, droolworthy enough. I'll take what I can get. ## Actually the sports addiction is probably what makes him most like any guy I know. #...but he does not scratch his head nor his - eh - head. Not even if he has to recite Byron. LOL! That's good--shows he doesn't have to think too hard. :-.) In this sense it is no snogging, I'm afraid. Understated. It's rather tender-passionate, at least what we get to see - what is not much. *SIGH* Many film kisses I find not only unsatisfying (see below, :-) ) but rather embarassing, and seldom good to look at. I just wonder, did we ever see him doing that tonsill-thing? I cannot remember right now. See my post to Arami above. CHEY: I can't comment on Fever Pitch except to say that WHEN ARE WE GOING TO GET TO SEE IT IN THE U.S.??? AMEN! I have been seeing some adds for Thousand Acres I saw them too--only very vague snippets of Colin in the trailers. Very upsetting--though I'm not surprised since he is not very famous here. and there should be some interviews. I think Michelle P. is going to be on Rosie next week,don't know which day, and I am sure she is there to talk about the film. MP is on Rosie O'Donnell on Thursday--let's hope she brings a good clip. Also, I wouldn't put it past Rosie to have Colin on either--she had Jennifer Ehle on a while ago (I don't remember what for) and she's not any more popular than is Colin here. And this is a major release... after I read Colin's interview in Vogue, I thought it was neat that he said that he was more like Darcy than he had imagined. That Darcy stayed with him long after it was over. Did he say that? I haven't read it yet--some fan I am :-.O I'll pick it up tomorrow. ROSIE: Enjoying your posts quite a bit, wishing I had something as interesting to contribute. My dear, any mention of Colin is interesting to us. Please stay, take your shoes off, tell us your favorite Colin...feature :-.p Memories I may have had to offer about the last thing I saw--previews of 1000 Acres--have totally vanished. Overall good impression left, however. Ah, thanks for reminding me. I forgot to mention above that, although it was brief, he is quite alarmingly handsome...very clean. ;-.D

ROSIE, CHEY, everyone - hi! welcome back! Please do feel free to chip in anytime, this is a drool conference, remember? We need mass participation...:-) NAN, I have gone even further with my research on snogging. I've asked my English husband (yes, I forgot I had an expert at home...). In Jane Austen's words, "he absolutely startled..." and then he confirmed (verbally) that the word "snogging" does not convey any indication of intensity. It's just a slang word meaning kissing, so you have to use adjectives like "heavy" or "serious" etc. to describe tonsil licking. Bull Durham? Bathtub scene? Sounds intriguing... Checked my sources again, it's described as an o d-ball movie, but I suppose it's that one scene that really matters, huh? RENATE, I'm so glad to see you've converted. Colin is NOT bow-legged, he is merely loose-jointed and flops about when walking. Kinda bends his knees outwards. Quite sweet, really... I loved him as Paul Ashworth, I like chaps like that, chummy, unmade bed, bed and all... The evidence is that real life Colin is very much like that himself and I can easily relate to that image. I'd gladly drink beer and watched soccer matches with him (I did with my hubby before we got married...) As for the film itself (Fever Pitch), it was OK, quite amusing but a little too simple for my taste: I thought it would have benefitted from an additional subplot, like for example, some of the schoolgirls trying to flirt with Paul, causing him some embarrassment, etc. I just couldn't believe that such a sexy teacher would be left unmolested in a school full of teenage girls! Alarmingly handsome - yes, I like it.

CHEY: ....... I must say this new format is somewhat confusing to a newbie such as I. I guess this is new to the most of us, and I feel myself not at all confident with it. But I think practice will make us true proficients. :-)) I can't comment on Fever Pitch except to say that WHEN ARE WE GOING TO GET TO SEE IT IN THE U.S.??? The video in PAL will come out end of Oct. - then it cannot be long until the NTSC version comes out, too? Or there must be a way to get it translated to NTSC? Anyway, Colin does a pretty convincing job of kissing and so much more in the Advocate. You remind me, it's quite a while since I lent it last.... think I have to refresh my memory. ROSIE: .... wishing I had something as interesting to contribute. Well, it does not happen every day that a new Colin-film comes to town - but all of us love to hear the good old reasons why we like him again and again.... :-)) NAN: .... Nothing about licking each other's tonsils, I'm afraid. ...... That's it--my friend Victoria is getting a call from me! . The term 'Victorian' does not apply to your friend, apparently, or does it? :-)) But talking about tongue-related matters: we get to see his tongue in "Out of the Blue". Nice shot. :-)) ... screwball comedy ... Love the old Mitchell Leisen films like "Hands across the Table" etc., but I am too tired now to remember the others. ...he is quite alarmingly handsome... Love these casual expressions.... but hey! The following line gets a completely new meaning: "Don't be alarmed, Madam!" :-.)=) ARAMI: Even when Darcy kisses Lizzy at the end of P&P, it's not "real". BTW, I think it must have been a darn difficult shot - with the vehicle shaking it must have been difficult enough for CF and JE to hit the target - and then make it look good and convincing, is hard work, I suppose. :-)) That's probably why they slowed it down in the end. And there are now trailers and various publicity shots from A Thousand Acres showing Colin kissing Jessica Lange - and again, you can see the detailed mechanics of a classic film snog: he invariably goes for her upper lip and she sucks on his lower one. I have very little illusions about the mechanic side of film making - but this is absolutely the most sobering description I have ever heard. Ugh. BTW, if I remember right, we witness a rather realistic passionate kiss with Harrison Ford and Kelly McGillis in - Witness. And, come to think of it, he did it in Blade Runner, too. Who would have thought it of good old a-bit-stiff Mr Forth - oops - Ford. (This was a genuine 'Sigmund'!)

ARAMI: Bull Durham? Bathtub scene? Sounds intriguing... Checked my sources again, it's described as an odd-ball movie, but I suppose it's that one scene that really matters, huh? A BASEball movie, dear, a baseball movie. :-)) And it is excellent indeed, and it helps also if you like Kevin Costner, Susan Sarandon, and Tim Robbins. RENATE, I'm so glad to see you've converted. . Me, too! Quite sweet, really... I loved him as Paul Ashworth Me, too! (beam!) As for the film itself (Fever Pitch), it was OK, quite amusing but a little too simple for my taste: I thought it would have benefitted from an additional subplot, . The character played by Mark Strong might have benefited from a bit "more meat on his bones". There's no history to speak of. I just couldn't believe that such a sexy teacher would be left unmolested in a school full of teenage girls! Now you mention it - that's how it was at school.... but I think originally it was not written as such a sexy part . I'm afraid we owe that mostly to Colin, quel surprise....:-)) GAIL from Australia, if you are listening: please contact me, your email doesn't work.

Back from my hols, having failed miserably to lock trolleys with anyone even remotely resembling Colin. Obviously I am not destined to have a Brief Encounter at Heathrow Airport! Oh well.. So much to catch up on and so here goes with a few random thoughts. Was hoping for news of What Is He Doing Now (I mean, I have been away for over a week!). Really hope he opts for projects and material which match his unique and considerable talent and doesn't sell himself short. I'm off to my usual serious start... okay, change of tone, KISSING/SNOGGING. I love the way Colin kisses on screen - gently and with great tenderness, almost caressing. But not real - as Arami says, the mechanics are always the same. Except perhaps for the mine scene in Nostromo, although that again is good professional acting. But I don't think I'd want to see him do it for real - Colin's approach (with something left to the imagination) is much more erotic. He's made some interesting comments on sex scenes "I don't like sex scenes, infact I hate them. There's nothing worse than watching bums going up and down on screen. It's unnecessary and awful for the audience to watch." Colin has a very cute derriere, but I agree with him! I think that the positions he prefers to adopt are much more aesthetically pleasing! He's also said that the worst part of his job are the sex scenes "because I enjoy sex too much to pretend to do it for a living"!!!! Oh well, enough of kissing, snogging and sex - how about singing? I noticed in my quick Colin-y skims that one of the entries on the FOF Birthday Card greetings was from someone (Kirsten?) who had worked as an extra on ATA (nice work if you can get it:-)) who says that it was a thrill meeting Colin on his birthday last year on the ATA set. "Thanks for singing with us - it was memorable and fun". Mmmm.. lucky lady,I'd like to sing along with him too! I'd like to hear him sing - properly, not just a hum or few bars. BTW I can see why some of us may prefer to read rather than post here. I hadn't realised how much there can be to absorb if you haven't logged in for a few days and it can be difficult to work out where to respond, particularly in this format, without the subject threads. Keep us informed about ATA, pl-e-e-ase! Especially if he gives a television interview.(But if he's not attending the Premiere in LA, he can't be in the States, ERGO he must be working somewhere, but where and on what? The elusive Mr Firth! But that is one (of the many) reasons why I like him, so I guess I must contain my very considerable curiosity. :-) Nice to be back!

Me:the detailed mechanics of a classic film snog: he invariably goes for her upper lip and she sucks on his lower one. Renate:I have very little illusions about the mechanic side of film making - but this is absolutely the most sobering description I have ever heard. Ugh. I have no illusions whatsoever: I am a frustrated film maker...

BETHAN: Colin has a very cute derriere, but I agree with him! I think that the positions he prefers to adopt are much more aesthetically pleasing! He's also said that the worst part of his job are the sex scenes "because I enjoy sex too much to pretend to do it for a living"!!!! Welcome back, Bethan, and you're off to a great start! I have to agree with you here and love the quote - it got me all tingly. And you can never say too much about kissing, snogging, and sex when it relates to Colin! ;-) I love the way Colin kisses on screen... Yes! He's very tender and gentle...seemingly a very considerate lover - that is so sexy. But then (I have to bring it up, Nan, sorry), I also like the Colin in Playmaker that cuts up women's dresses and assaults them in showers! He was so, so naughty in that stinky movie! But if he's not attending the Premiere in LA Wait a minute, does this mean the premiere is in LA??? Oh my, I think I'll have to take a little trip up there sometime soon... And Renate, you're killing me over here with talk of Fever Pitch - but, please go on! What was it about his thighs in the movie?? He must be wearing those little shorts soccer players wear??

ARAMI: I've asked my English husband (yes, I forgot I had an expert at home...). In Jane Austen's words, "he absolutely startled..." Oh dear, what must he think of us? Did he ask why you were corresponding with a misinformed American pervert? ;-.) LOL! Hope he's got a good sense of humor... It's just a slang word meaning kissing, so you have to use adjectives like "heavy" or "serious" etc. to describe tonsil licking. I like the word "wicked" myself, as in "Colin and I were doin' some wicked snogging!"...oh yeah, living in a rich fantasy world I am...:-.) Bull Durham? Bathtub scene? Sounds intriguing... Checked my sources again, it's described as an odd-ball movie, but I suppose it's that one scene that really matters, huh? Well, it is a little quirky but it has a great, easy going feel to it...a really enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours--especially the last 20 minutes or so. YUM!! I don't know how you feel about Kevin Costner but if you don't like him now, you'll like him after that film. :-.) I can easily relate to that image. I'd gladly drink beer and watched soccer matches with him Me too, though I prefer hockey. During the season here you'll find me sitting in my local bar, drinking a Bass and staring at the tv--it's very Cheers :-) Unfortunately, the other regulars there (all male) look nothing like Colin and worse, have not one tenth of his charm. Pity. RENATE: The video (Fever Pitch) in PAL will come out end of Oct. - then it cannot be long until the NTSC version comes out, too? Or there must be a way to get it translated to NTSC? I don't know--the NTSC version will probably not here for several months. But if I can bribe one of the video places to convert a PAL copy then I will. The problem with that is most of them won't convert a copyrighted film. The term 'Victorian' does not apply to your friend, apparently, or does it? :-)) The term 'Victorian' doesn't apply to any of my friends--that's why they're my friends!;-.D But her accent is so incredibly, perfectly proper that even when she uses the most vulgar language under the sun, it still sounds like a compliment--it's a riot! ;-.) But talking about tongue-related matters: we get to see his tongue in "Out of the Blue". Nice shot. :-)) Huh? What's that? Did I hear "his tongue"? :-.) ...he is quite alarmingly handsome... Love these casual expressions.... but hey! The following line gets a completely new meaning: "Don't be alarmed, Madam!" :-.)=) Quite true! Glad both you and Arami agree that "alarmingly handsome" is not an exaggeration in his case. :-) BETHAN: Welcome back! He's made some interesting comments on sex scenes "I don't like sex scenes, infact I hate them. There's nothing worse than watching bums going up and down on screen. Well, I don't know...an occasional "bum" going up and down works for me...if it's done well enough that is :-.p I think that the positions he prefers to adopt are much more aesthetically pleasing! Maybe, but have to say, I'm tired of seeing that position: "been there, done that" would rather see some other angles now. :-.) He's also said that the worst part of his job are the sex scenes "because I enjoy sex too much to pretend to do it for a living"!!!! Though I appreciate them, I can imagine that it must be somewhat humiliating and uncomfortable. Glad to know he actually likes the real thing though...not that I had any doubt mind you! ;-.) it can be difficult to work out where to respond, particularly in this format, without the subject threads. I think the solution to that is to respond very often, wouldn't you say girls? Keep us informed about ATA, pl-e-e-ase! Of course m'dear--I shall sit myself down at the computer the moment I get home from the theatre. It's so much fun to have someone to share these things with...my "real world" friends don't get it at all...not even a little... MARILYN: And you can never say too much about kissing, snogging, and sex when it relates to Colin! ;-) I second that! ;-.) (I have to bring it up, Nan, sorry), I also like the Colin in Playmaker that cuts up women's dresses and assaults them in showers! He was so, so naughty in that stinky movie! LOL! I'm perfectly willing to discuss Playmaker, though I think the poor man had a rough time of it. As others have pointed out in the past, there are quite a few good Colin moments...if you can get past the schtinkiness of the film that is.

Nan and all, I endorse all that wholeheartedly! And now I'm signing off for a few days (a long weekend in France with my very English hubby, you see: BTW, yes, fortunately he appears to have a great sense of humour. He laughs strangely and clenches his fists every time he sees one of my numerous Colin pin-ups around the house...) So keep drooling, I want to see a lovely big puddle when I'm back. Ta-ta!

KISSING AND SNOGGING AND OTHER GOOD THINGS okay, change of tone, KISSING/SNOGGING. I love the way Colin kisses on screen - gently and with great tenderness, almost caressing. .......But I don't think I'd want to see him do it for real - Colin's approach (with something left to the imagination) is much more erotic. Fever Pitch is a very good example for this - and BTW you don't see him "go for the upper lip" - the actual snogging is 'invisible', you get to see more of Colin's curls and RG's arms. A very tactful camera. But suggestive. He's made some interesting comments on sex scenes "I don't like sex scenes, infact I hate them. There's nothing worse than watching bums going up and down on screen. It's unnecessary and awful for the audience to watch." I agree wholeheartedly. Usually I prefer suggested sex over explicit sex (in films, that is). :-.) A THESIS: It is my belief, that the sexiness of his roles is reciprocal to the amount of clothes he wears....i.e. - the more he wears the more desirable he his.... Do you want proof? I can prove it, but I would like you, dear CoLoonies, either to confirm or contradict my thesis. MEN'S WEAR And Renate, you're killing me over here with talk of Fever Pitch - but, please go on! What was it about his thighs in the movie?? He must be wearing those little shorts soccer players wear?? Marilyn, you call what soccer player wear "little" shorts? I would rather suggest the word spacious. In FP he usually walks in jeans, or baggy training dress, but looks TERRIFIC in it (I'm in the Unmade-bed-department). at one time we get to see him in his red Arsenal boxer shorts - not baggy, very nice, and I don't understand what a problem Sarah has with it. ......And here we are again - our favourite obsession - Colin's pants. (pant, pant,,,,) MUTUAL SUPPORT I don't know--the NTSC version will probably not here for several months. So, if you don't get Fever Pitch, and we don't get ATA before long month's we will have to support one another verbally. STILL STRUGGLING WITH NEW FORMAT it can be difficult to work out where to respond, particularly in this format, without the subject threads. I think the solution to that is to respond very often, wouldn't you say girls? We might use a kind of subject line instead or in addition to the names. BTW, I am not so fond of the present use of the names because they suggest an uninviting personal/private conversation.

COLIN's BIRTHDAY Crumbs! Nearly forgot! He's 37 today... Must dash, see ya.

Happy birthday Colin Firth!

Happy Birthday to our object of admiration and drool! My kids screamed when "ET" mentioned his birthday tonight...

Marina: My kids screamed when "ET" mentioned his birthday tonight... Why? Because they are CF fans, too, or because they just realised that their mother's disease probably starts to spread all over the nation? :-))

PANT! PANT! PANT! Marilyn, you call what soccer player wear "little" shorts? I would rather suggest the word spacious. In FP he usually walks in jeans, or baggy training dress, but looks TERRIFIC in it (I'm in the Unmade-bed-department). at one time we get to see him in his red Arsenal boxer shorts - not baggy, very nice, and I don't understand what a problem Sarah has with it. ......And here we are again - our favourite obsession - Colin's pants. (pant, pant,,,,) Renate - you are so right - maybe it was wishful thinking, but I thought soccer players wore short clingy things. Then last night I caught ESPN and saw that they actually wore parachutes for shorts! Since I love the "unmade bed" (my girlfriend calls it the "just had sex Colin") look too, I'm sure I would love him in this movie, but (sniff!), I'll never know...boxer shorts you say?? How about those jeans, Renate, how'd they fit exactly?? A THESIS: It is my belief, that the sexiness of his roles is reciprocal to the amount of clothes he wears....i.e. - the more he wears the more desirable he his.... Do you want proof? I can prove it, but I would like you, dear CoLoonies, either to confirm or contradict my thesis. I think there's quite a lot of merit in your thesis, Renate. I can give you one example - take Darcy (oh please!), you don't even see his neck for the first three episodes, however when you do...oh my, what a payoff! Of all the roles I've seen, he's sexiest as Darcy, with Valmont a distant second - and he's completely clothed! Maybe we need to credit our imaginations? I'm looking forward to seeing more proof! ;-)

A THESIS: (Renate) It is my belief, that the sexiness of his roles is reciprocal to the amount of clothes he wears....i.e. - the more he wears the more desirable he his.... Can't dispute it at all--very impressive oh observant Mirror Keeptress. You're absolutely right! There can be no other explanation for the fact that I find P&P2 completely sexual and The Advocate rather dull. :-) MUTUAL SUPPORT (Renate) So, if you don't get Fever Pitch, and we don't get ATA before long month's we will have to support one another verbally. And using many adjectives (preferrably WET ones). ;-p STILL STRUGGLING WITH NEW FORMAT (Renate) We might use a kind of subject line instead or in addition to the names. BTW, I am not so fond of the present use of the names because they suggest an uninviting personal/private conversation. I'm willing to give it a go. I know what you mean--some people feel that it would be intrusive of them to post because we appear to be having an intimate (LOL) conversation--which is certainly not the case. The more the merrier, I say. I do think we have to come up with something for the people who don't check in every day as we do. It's very hard to follow a conversation if you have no idea who said what. Maybe the incorporation of the names and a subject line (with the name not being so pronounced as be ore) might be the best way. In this post I've put the name of the original poster in parenthesis before their quote--what do you think? Or too much to have to type? PANT! PANT! PANT! (Renate) you call what soccer player wear "little" shorts? (Marilyn) you are so right - maybe it was wishful thinking, but I thought soccer players wore short clingy things. Then last night I caught ESPN and saw that they actually wore parachutes for shorts! LOL! That's just what they look like! I think you were thinking of those shorts they gave us to wear in gym in the 70's--the ones with the white trim. Now THEY were shorts.... (Marilyn) Since I love the "unmade bed" (my girlfriend calls it the "just had sex Colin") I love that line! ;-D She gets 3 snaps from me! (Marilyn) I'm sure I would love him in this movie, but (sniff!), I'll never know Don't despair dear! Renate will talk us through it until we can get our hands on a tape. ;-)

Renate: Unfortunately, my kids do not share my obsession! They have their crushes on other actors, but I just don't get why they do not feel the same way about CF! They screamed because they could not believe that CF was given airtime...GO FIGURE! BTW, did anyone watch/record the Rosie show with Michelle Pfeiffer today? Our power apparently went out so the VCR didn't record the show!!! I couldn't believe it...Did she give us any crumbs about CF before ATA is out next week? Jennifer Jason Leigh will be on Letterman Friday night...here's hoping the power doesn't go out!!!

STILL STRUGGLING WITH NEW FORMAT I'm having a shot at the subject approach suggested by Renate/Nan. I agree that use of names (on their own) could suggest a private conversation, and maybe other people are reluctant to jump in. I really don't know... anyway, here goes. SNOGGING/KISSING Colin described the kiss in P&P2 as "chaste and matrimonial" (he has a nice turn of phrase!)I think that Renate's "tender-passionate" description applies to all Colin's screen kisses - they are good to look at, not embarassing! IS HE BOW-LEGGED? Nope. He's very loose-limbed with an enormous stride, but the legs are fine! PLAYMAKER/SCISSORS SCENE Yes, Marilyn, I like that scene too! Must admit to watching it more than I should and to scutinising that frosted glass VERY carefully! But I'd cringe with embarassment for him if it went out on prime time TV. For private viewing only! OUT OF THE BLUE Arami, the only thing I've read about OOTB (never seen it) is that Colin deprives Catherine Zeta Jones of her virginity. And we also get to see his tongue, do we? Can you enlighten me - the two facts conjure up VERY colourful images :-) BTW, Catherine ZJ, says she informatively, is currently co-starring with Antonio Banderas in "Zorro", so she's moved on! FEVER PITCH FILM AND VIDEO Just got the latest catalogue from Video Plus Direct and saw that (goody, goody) both TEP and FP (late October) are soon available for sale. Still can't understand why FP wasn't shown in the US. I was flicking through the new issue of the New York Time Out (I read it at the news stand, never buy it!) and was surprised at how many British films are being shown in the US at the moment..even obscure badly reviewed movies like Trojan Eddie have opened..WHY NOT FP? Especially when most British films sell on th back of critical acclaim from the US. Oh well, that's life, but LIFE'S NOT FAIR! Nan, Chey, everyone.. I don't know if this is helpful, but in Ellen's FirthFAQ there is a section on where to buy Colin's videos, and there is a reference to Laughinghouse Audio Visual British Video Guide. Phone (714)956-9032. And (I quote) "Ask for Mike Walsh. It is reported that they will make PAL to NTSC conversions without cost". Might be worth trying! ROSIE Please keep us posted on any Colin-y comments. Hope you don't have any more power failures, Marina, and tell your kids that Colin's going to get a lot more airtime (if he wants it, that is (I don't think he does), but that's a whole new discussion area!) I'm exhausted :-)I'm not usually as systematic as this. What do you think?

I saw Michelle on Rosie and sorry to say but she was boring. Rosie asked her what the movie was about and she just said " you tell them". She acted like she was VERY uncomfortable. She never mentioned Colin, or Jess. In fact they mostly talked about their children. She looked very plain with stringy hair, almost like she was ashamed of her beauty and was trying to hide it. At the end, Rosie asked her how she thought the interview went and she said she would give it a "6". I was really dissappointed and I don't think she will get people to go to that movie based on that interview. Also, today on GMA Joel Siegle listed ALL the new fall movies opening soon and did not even mention ATA. Bad sign?? I hope not. I just wish I had a fellow Colin lover to go to see it with. I have never gone to a movie alone. This will be a first! Chey

NEW FORMAT Bethan - I like the bold subject line. Like Nan said, it may make it more inviting for others to join in our silliness...plus I like your subjects! :-) such as... COLIN'S LEGS He's very loose-limbed with an enormous stride, but the legs are fine! Indeed they are, Bethan! ;-) A THOUSAND ACRES I just wish I had a fellow Colin lover to go to see it with. I have never gone to a movie alone. This will be a first! Chey - Where do you live? Anywhere near Southern California?? I've lined up a new Colin recruit to see it with me (9/26?), but I would be going solo if I didn't have her. Nan, why can't you live about 3,000 miles closer??? Is it true TEP will be released during the same week (9/23)??? MARINA I must know who your children prefer over our lovely man?? :-) Actually, I'm with your kids in my surprise that Colin got a mention on ET. Now that ET is showing such good taste, maybe they'll interview him about the movie or go "behind the scenes" with ATA?? HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE!!!

NEW PIC Thank you very much for the new "Pensive Colin" picture! Terry, I suppose? Or Nan? However: so nice of you. PANT! PANT! PANTS! (Marilyn) .....they actually wore parachutes for shorts! LOL! Well observed, and well put. ...boxer shorts you say?? How about those jeans, Renate, how'd they fit exactly?? Sorry if I have to disappoint any expectations. The black jeans are wide, just very comfortable looking. No sneakers but very fine black boots. Good style. I think shoes define a character very much - not only in movies. (Nan) And using many adjectives (preferrably WET ones). ;-p I'm afraid Fever Pitch doesn't contribute much in the WET department. But there is another "seen it before scene": champagne (TEP) - or the Arsenal equivalent - gulped down directly from the bottle . But here for a happy event. ........ because we appear to be having an intimate (LOL) conversation Intimate yes, but not private :-.)) Renate will talk us through it until we can get our hands on a tape. ;-) I would, but I am afraid I will spoil your fun with the film when I tell you too much beforehand. I even have the FP Screenplay, could recite and describe scene by scene, do you really want me to do that? (Marina).. They screamed because they could not believe that CF was given airtime... They better get used to it! (Bethan) FEVER PITCH FILM AND VIDEO Just got the latest catalogue from Video Plus Direct and saw that (goody, goody) both TEP and FP (late October) are soon available for sale. While Paul Ashworth lives from game to game, we live from release to release...what will come after October??? ....I'm not usually as systematic as this. Bethan, it does not show at all! Your thoughts seem always sorted out very nicely and put very well. :-)) (Chey)I saw Michelle on Rosie and sorry to say but she was boring. ........ She looked very plain with stringy hair, almost like she was ashamed of her beauty and was trying to hide it. I remember I read somewhere that she was already completely exhausted before she started ATA, but made it nevertheless because it otherwise would have been too difficult with the other participants time schedules. And then act, produce, probably involved in editing, too, do the promotion tours... Perhaps she is just completely groggy, tired, too exhausted and had nothing more to give. I have never gone to a movie alone. This will be a first! Chey It's not so bad, I think. In fact, I usually prefer to go to movies alone. No one nudges and talks and comments and distracts my concentration (on Colin, f.e.) in the wrong moments. :-)) Two days ago, in Fever Pitch, I had even THE WHOLE THEATRE FOR MYSELF ALONE! That was wun-der-bar!

One week to ATA! I can't wait!

]No sneakers but very fine black boots. Good style. Boots! Did you say Boots?!?! And here you all are! Where's Megs? Sorry I haven't been about, but a new job has kept me too busy to get online. But I thought about Colin on his birthday (37---he's finally gaining on me!) I'll be stopping by (probably infrequently) now that drool is up and running. Perhaps we can start posting pics here like we did in the good old days!

SNOGGING/KISSING (Bethan) Colin described the kiss in P&P2 as "chaste and matrimonial" (he has a nice turn of phrase!) Indeed he does--very diplomatic way of saying "dull" LOL!! :-) PLAYMAKER/SCISSORS SCENE (Bethan) Must admit to watching it more than I should and to scutinising that frosted glass VERY carefully! But I'd cringe with embarassment for him if it went out on prime time TV. For private viewing only! We are in full agreement here. That frosted glass is so frustrating for me! I think that is why I prefer Femme Fatale--they leave the really heavy stuff to the imagination, but at what you do see of him is clear. OUT OF THE BLUE (Bethan) Arami, the only thing I've read about OOTB (never seen it) is that Colin deprives Catherine Zeta Jones of her virginity. And we also get to see his tongue, do we? Can you enlighten me - the two facts conjure up VERY colourful images :-) Okay, whoever knows the dirt on this one has to fess up because I am overcome with curiosity--help the poor Colin-starved American please? ;-p FEVER PITCH FILM AND VIDEO (Bethan) I was flicking through the new issue of the New York Time Out (I read it at the news stand, never buy it!) and was surprised at how many British films are being shown in the US at the moment.. I'm confused about that too. There are quite a few theatres that show nothing but quirky or european films...why not COLIN!!?!?!?!? Tis most vexing! It is reported that they will make PAL to NTSC conversions without cost". Might be worth trying! Oooh, thanks for the info! :-) PFEIFFER ON THE TALK SHOWS (Rosie) She never mentioned Colin, or Jess. In fact they mostly talked about their children. Yeah, I saw that too and it was deadly dull...I also saw her on that new Barbara Walters talk show "The View" and it was about the same. No mention of Colin, not that I'm surprised but I was hoping. :-( NEW FORMAT (Marilyn) Bethan - I like the bold subject line. Like Nan said, it may make it more inviting for others to join in our silliness...plus I like your subjects! :-) Actually, it was Renate's idea...and a good one it was. I just added the part about the names in parenthesis. A THOUSAND ACRES (Chey) I just wish I had a fellow Colin lover to go to see it with. I have never gone to a movie alone. This will be a first! (Marilyn) Where do you live? Anywhere near Southern California?? I've lined up a new Colin recruit to see it with me (9/26?), but I would be going solo if I didn't have her. Nan, why can't you live about 3,000 miles closer??? I know, doesn't that stink. I can't get anyone here to go with me. I guess I could find some of the other New Yorkers at RoP, but truthfully I don't know them very well. Maybe Kate might like to go--she's a hoot. But I don't know how big a Colin fan she is. It would be great to go with all of you guys. Unfortunately, the thing which makes us such an interesting group is the same thing that keeps us apart :-( But that reminds me... SOMETHING SIMILAR TO VIRT VIEWS I've been thinking that perhaps we should borrow the idea from RoP and do something like that here. Frequently, when we discuss Colin movies, we are not all speaking with the same freshness of mind. If we all watched it at about the same time, I feel sure our discussions would be more...er, lively. Whaddya think? TEP (Marilyn) Is it true TEP will be released during the same week (9/23)??? That's what Tower Video told me and they're usually good with that stuff. BTW, have you had a chance to make the trek to the Tower nearest you? ;-) NEW PIC (Renate) Thank you very much for the new "Pensive Colin" picture! Terry, I suppose? Or Nan? However: so nice of you. Most welcome--I thought it was time for a change. And he's sooooo pretty in that one--dontcha think? ;-) (Nan) Renate will talk us through it until we can get our hands on a tape. ;-) (Renate) I would, but I am afraid I will spoil your fun with the film when I tell you too much beforehand. I even have the FP Screenplay, could recite and describe scene by scene, do you really want me to do that? I see what you mean. For myself, I have no problem with knowing everything before I see the movie. I'm notorious for reading the last chapter of a book before the first! But I know that most people don't like to know too much so perhaps you should just stick to general descriptions and an odd scene or two. ATA RELEASE (Susan) One week to ATA! I can't wait! Oh me either! To see something new, even if the movie bites... BOOTS!!! (Margaret) Boots! Did you say Boots?!?! Boot lady!! How good to see you...glad you stopped in. :-) And here you all are! Where's Megs? Not here, I'm afraid--she's still being responsible in the real world...but I have high hopes... I'll be stopping by (probably infrequently) now that drool is up and running. Whenever you get the chance we'd love to see you :-) Perhaps we can start posting pics here like we did in the good old days! Oh please...feel free. Nothing gets a conversation going like a good Colin photo! ;-)

PLAYMAKER/SCISSORS SCENE (Nan) That frosted glass is so frustrating for me! I think that is why I prefer Femme Fatale--they leave the really heavy stuff to the imagination, but at what you do see of him is clear. There are some more reasons to prefer FF over PM: though the story is hard to believe and apparently cannot decide what to be - a psychological drama or a suspense thriller - and fails on both, the PM story is simply crap, and has some scenes of bad taste. SOMETHING SIMILAR TO VIRTVIEWS / FILM DISCUSSION (Nan) I've been thinking that perhaps we should borrow the idea from RoP and do something like that here. Frequently, when we discuss Colin movies, we are not all speaking with the same freshness of mind. If we all watched it at about the same time, I feel sure our discussions would be more...er, lively. Whaddya think? Excellent idea, Nan! Do you think of an extra topic for that? I would suggest not only to limit it to CF films, (even if that must be the main focus...) but to discuss other favourites, too. BTW, Playmaker would be the first film to discuss here for me, because I would like to figure out what it is exactly that makes it such a bad film. OUT OF THE BLUE (Bethan) Arami, the only thing I've read about OOTB (never seen it) is that Colin deprives Catherine Zeta Jones of her virginity. And we also get to see his tongue, do we? Can you enlighten me - the two facts conjure up VERY colourful images :-) (Nan) Okay, whoever knows the dirt on this one has to fess up because I am overcome with curiosity--help the poor Colin-starved American please? ;-p Not much dirt in there, sorry to disappoint, ladies :-.)) Don't remember that virginity or loss of was an issue - but betrayal of trust. Colin's character, which name I just don't remember, is a director of video clips, who wears suspenders, and uses video material of Catherine without her consent that he filmed while courting her. He is a charming but notorious liar anyway, and betrays her - and his best friend - into the bargain with his best friends girlfriend. In the course of the latter action he picks up some white little dots and that is where the tongue eference comes in. She quits because he is too immature. Well, this summary may not be very coherent, but at least it is short. Arami, or anybody else who saw the movie, can you give a better summary?

NEW FORMAT (Marilyn) Bethan - I like the bold subject line. (Nan) Actually, it was Renate's idea...and a good one it was. I just added the part about the names in parenthesis. Only the subject lines were my idea, but to make them bold was Bethan's. I like it, too, but keep on forgetting the "bold" tags. :-))

Colin's Eyes SylviaH./Anyone: This is an old one, but please tell me what the words "chip pan" and "choc-ice" mean in the following context: It has to be said that Colin smoulders like a chip pan with eyes that could burn a hole in choc-ice at 50 paces."

OUT OF THE BLUE SUSPENDERS! E--e-ech!!! In British parlance, suspenders hold up silk stockings! Shades of Colin in the Rocky Horror Show... and then I realised that suspenders can also hold up gents socks and (in the US) trousers (ie British braces). Oh, the confusion of our common tongue. We are talking about trousers, I hope!! COLIN QUOTES Have just been tidying up magazines including quite a stack bought pre-FP when Colin gave an abundance of interviews. Very interesting stuff. Incase you didn't have access to British mags, I'll give a few quotes. If you've heard it all before, just Y-A-W-N and let me know! "He slopes into the room in an old brown sued jacket, a crumpled pair of brown trousers and a black T-shirt, untidy brown culs framing a pale face which looks younger and softer than on TV...Firth turns out to be completely unassuming, friendly and funny...the tall broad shouldered physique, the serious dark brown eyes that suggest hidden torrents of feeling. Others on Colin.. " Brilliant actor..there's more to Colin than to most actors...(on his self-imposed exile in Canada with MT "Colin has handled his career rather badly if you think that ambition is all that matters." Colin.. "My family is pretty academic. I was the first in generations not to go to university. My parents thought (of Drama School) "Thank God he's found somewhere where he actually goes to classes.* On MT and Will "Fortunately I have avery good relationship with his mother" Michael Wearing (Exec Producer of Nostromo/P&P, Head of BBC Drama) on Livia.."She's a lovely girl, extremely bright. Their relationship flowere slowly and was delighful to see" (M-m-mm...Tres romantique, n'est-ce pas?) Other snippets volunteered by Colin..Before he went out with JE he'd never been out with anyone younger than himself. Dislikes TV and does not own a set.. had a girlfriend who did nothing but watch television...when she left the TV set went too. Am now descending into the realms of idle gossip and so will stop! But just though I would throw out a few nice-to-know facts. :-)Done at speed, excuse any typos!

A THOUSAND ACRES Nan: Maybe Kate might like to go--she's a hoot. Why thank you, I regard that as the ultimate compliment ;-) I will definitely be going to ATA, but because I'm going on holidays on Sept 24 (to Australia ) I don't know if I'll have time next weekend - and I won't be back until October 7... and I doubt if you'll be able to wait that long!

OUT OF THE BLUE (Bethan) SUSPENDERS! E--e-ech!!! ........ We are talking about trousers, I hope!! Calm down, Bethan, yes, we do! They - the suspenders - are more of the posh, decorative kind as you may easily imagine, and they look good on him, as nearly anything does. Not even the pink t-shirt can do him any harm. I guess he would even make a monk's robe attractive or a pimp's suit look classy. There are only few exceptions such as blue suits, if you get my meaning. :-)) Out off the blue, Colin! COLIN QUOTES Have just been tidying up magazines including quite a stack bought pre-FP when Colin gave an abundance of interviews. Very interesting stuff. And you say it just so-so.....while elsewhere in the world Firthaddicts are starving for this stuff? In case you didn't have access to British mags, I'll give a few quotes. I suppose only few here have access to those mags, so please give us the FULL interviews, please! I expect you to talk us over the upcoming Firthless time until ATA release or the FP tape by posting one by one of these interviews.... there are things that cannot be said or read too often, such as the following: "He slopes into the room in an old brown sued jacket, a crumpled pair of brown trousers and a black T-shirt, untidy brown curls framing a pale face which looks younger and softer than on TV... Are there pictures, too? Firth turns out to be completely unassuming, friendly and funny...the tall broad shouldered physique, the serious dark brown eyes that suggest hidden torrents of feeling. I've NEVER read it before. Where is it from? And the Others on Colin are by far too good and flattering to just being dumped into the recycling ton, or wherever you Brits dump your papers. :-)) But just though I would throw out a few nice-to-know facts. :-) Thanks, Bethan, that is great. BUT CAN WE HAVE MORE???! PLEASE!

Just a quick message, ladies. Jessica Lange will be on Rosie this Wed. Maybe she will have something more to say (about Colin) than Michelle did. Also, Oh Woe is ME! I was ready to go to the movie by myself Friday but then my husband decided to take off work Friday! Now don't get me wrong, I love it when he stays home with me, but, I think I have gone a little over board on Colin! I think that I would be a little jealous if he were acting this way about some female star... so I thought I would go se it by myself. Now I will have to wait until Monday! I don't think I can stand it! BTW, when is that World of Moss coming out? Chey

Well ladies, Jennifer Jason Leigh had nothing to say about CF, in fact, when asked about who was in ATA, all she had to say was MP, JL, JR, she then paused and Letterman reminded her about her own starring role. She seemed nervous and/or ditzy while on the show...I just hope this isn't another TEP for CF, although, how much can his character really stand out when there's incest and sibling rivalry at the core of the story??? Here's hoping Jessica Lange gives us some crumbs... BTW, ET had a snippet interview with MP and JL and it featured some behind the scenes settings with CF in the background. However, no mention of him from either party! Marilyn: My kids love Mark Hamill and Bill Pullman...I think they think it's a bit silly for mom to swoon over someone other than their dad, so they go "eckk" over CF (pop psych?). Chey: I know exactly what you mean about hubby and the movie! Hey, lets see more pics of CF to swoon and drool over just as in the old Spring days!

New Format Thanks to Renate and Bethan for inventing it. It makes this board easier to read. Colin's Eyes Rosie: Do you want a translation or an interpretation? :-) My translation is that choc-ice is chocolate ice and chip pan a pan with fried potatoes. I have to admit that the latter doesn't sound very romatic to me, the german word for it is Bratkartoffelpfanne which is even worse but I like the choc-ice part of the quotation. Since reading the article I've been wondering why the author chose chocolate ice: her favorite ice-cream, color of Colin's eyes, is chocolate ice colder than others and therefore harder to melt? Any suggestions? Out of the Blue Not being a native speaker the disussion about trousers and their various forms confuse me. Or is it the MAN wearing all those different sorts of trousers and not the language? Please tell me what he picks up some white little dots means. Virtual Views Another beautiful idea. This would make the discussion about movies easier to follow and it would also focus our energies on one topic. Quotes and Gossip ... had a girlfriend who did nothing but watch television... I can't believe that. Strange things happen in the world outside.

QUOTES AND GOSSIP (Sylvia)"... had a girlfriend who did nothing but watch television"... I can't believe that. Strange things happen in the world outside. Can you imagine?? I dunno, but I don't think we'd be watching too much TV if we were the lucky lady in his life! ;-) SOMETHING SIMILAR TO VIRT VIEWS (Nan) I've been thinking that perhaps we should borrow the idea from RoP and do something like that here. Frequently, when we discuss Colin movies, we are not all speaking with the same freshness of mind. If we all watched it at about the same time, I feel sure our discussions would be more...er, lively. Whaddya think? I think that's an excellent idea! What should we "virtview" first?? Oh, the possibilities... COLIN QUOTES (Bethan)"He slopes into the room in an old brown sued jacket, a crumpled pair of brown trousers and a black T-shirt, untidy brown culs framing a pale face which looks younger and softer than on TV...Firth turns out to be completely unassuming, friendly and funny...the tall broad shouldered physique, the serious dark brown eyes that suggest hidden torrents of feeling. He sounds very "unmade bed" like here, oh yum! - and the "eyes...hidden torrents of feeling"...ahhh! Bethan, more please!! :-) SWOON (Marina) My kids love Mark Hamill and Bill Pullman...I think they think it's a bit silly for mom to swoon over someone other than their dad, so they go "eckk" over CF (pop psych?). Marina, I remember feeling the same way when my mom swooned over Paul Newman in "Butch Cassidy..." - anyway, it didn't take long for me to see Paul's appeal. :-) I have to agree with their love of Bill Pullman though - he was so dreamy in "While you were Sleeping". NEW PIC (Renate) Thank you very much for the new "Pensive Colin" picture! Terry, I suppose? Or Nan? However: so nice of you. (Nan) Most welcome--I thought it was time for a change. And he's sooooo pretty in that one--dontcha think? ;-) Nan, is the photo Renate refers to the one from Vogue?? If not, where is that pretty boy??? And one more thing, the local news said the ATA premiere is being held downtown in LA tonight - so maybe E! will cover it? I just can't go to something like that by myself, a movie yes, but not this unfortunately. And, speaking of premieres, I just noticed a gorgeous photo of Colin with the TEP gang at FoF - has anyone seen it?? Pssst, Nan, he looks really CLEAN! :-D

PLAYMAKER/SCISSORS SCENE (Renate) the PM story is simply crap, and has some scenes of bad taste. Agreed. As I've said before: Peeee-yeeeew!! ;-p FILM DISCUSSION (Renate) Excellent idea, Nan! Do you think of an extra topic for that? I would suggest not only to limit it to CF films, (even if that must be the main focus...) but to discuss other favourites, too. If it were just for Colin I'd say leave the discussion here, but if we're getting into other movies (which I'm all for, BTW) then yes, I think it should have it's own topic. BTW, Playmaker would be the first film to discuss here for me, because I would like to figure out what it is exactly that makes it such a bad film. Okeedokee! Let's choose a date for the discussion to begin and then one of us can start the new topic. OUT OF THE BLUE (Renate)In the course of the latter action he picks up some white little dots and that is where the tongue reference comes in. She quits because he is too immature. Ugh! Sorry I asked ;-D COLIN QUOTES "He slopes into the room...the tall broad shouldered physique, the serious dark brown eyes that suggest hidden torrents of feeling. OH MY! What a vision that gave me!!!;-) "Hidden torrents of feeling..." *sigh* A THOUSAND ACRES (Kate) Why thank you, I regard that as the ultimate compliment ;-) Me too ;-) I didn't realize you were still lurking about in here...good to see you. :-) I will definitely be going to ATA, but because I'm going on holidays on Sept 24 (to Australia ) I don't know if I'll have time next weekend - and I won't be back until October 7... and I doubt if you'll be able to wait that long! Tis true...I shall indeed have a breakdown if I have to wait until October 7. However, I'm sure that I won't go only once so feel free to give me a buzz when you return and maybe we can do the movie and tie one on! ;-) JESSICA LANGE ON ROSIE (Chey) Jessica Lange will be on Rosie this Wed. Maybe she will have something more to say (about Colin) than Michelle did. Or anything at all for that matter. Also, Oh Woe is ME! I was ready to go to the movie by myself Friday but then my husband decided to take off work Friday! (snip) Now I will have to wait until Monday! I don't think I can stand it! Oh you poor thing...I feel for you, I really do. But we've all waited this long, Monday won't be so bad... BTW, when is that World of Moss coming out? According to imDb it's scheduled for Spring 98--no specific date yet. :-( NOT ANOTHER TEP!;-( (Marina) I just hope this isn't another TEP for CF, although, how much can his character really stand out when there's incest and sibling rivalry at the core of the story??? This is true. I finally read the book this weekend and Jess is pretty integral here...just not a big enough "star" I suppose. Hmmm... BTW, ET had a snippet interview with MP and JL and it featured some behind the scenes settings with CF in the background. However, no mention of him from either party! So, what else is new? It's very disappointing. And the reviews! This is not a good sign. CHOCOLATE EYES (Sylvia) I like the choc-ice part of the quotation. Since reading the article I've been wondering why the author chose chocolate ice: her favorite ice-cream, color of Colin's eyes, is chocolate ice colder than others and therefore harder to melt? Any suggestions? I don't understand the quotation either (cultural thing I suppose) but I can certainly relate to the "chocolate" eyes. I think it was Marilyn who called them "Chocolate Pools" LOL! :-)

Colin's Eyes (Rosie) SylviaH./Anyone: This is an old one, but please tell me what the words "chip pan" and "choc-ice" mean in the following context: It has to be said that Colin smoulders like a chip pan with eyes that could burn a hole in choc-ice at 50 paces." I don't know the origin of this quote, but it reminds me of another one I find very funny. (I don't know the exact source anymore, it's quite a while since I printed it out. It's a quote within a quote of 'Bernie' with the title "Once more into the breeches...", on 'Jane's page'. Hope I don't violate any copyright with this post :-)) ) Here it is: "For all its multitude of merits, the BBC's P&P has created an unreasonable demand among the nation's women for men in mysterious trousers. Indeed, the day may not be far off when the prime requirement of any classic drama will be not so much fidelity to the text but the presence of a hero with all the necessary basic attributes: hot coal eyes (betraying the unseen blaze in the Aga double-oven of his breast), hair curly-going on-tousled and thighs that can grip a mettlesome mare like a denture-f xative." MP AND JJL ON TALKSHOWS As unfortunate it is for us, I somehow like it that MP and JJL seem to be talkshow-shy and insecure. It's all so human, and I can sympathize with it very much. I like to see the real people shine through the showbiz surface, even if - or because - they are less than perfect. It casts a light on how important the off-the-mainstream ATA must be for those who made it, that those publicity-shy people walk off their ways to promote it. Out of the Blue (SylviaH) ...... trousers and their various forms confuse me. Or is it the MAN wearing all those different sorts of trousers and not the language? It must be the man, Sylvia, because it's NOT the language, and the trouser thing is mysterious: like Ariadne's thread the trouser reference follows us wherever we go.. :-.)) Please tell me what he picks up some white little dots means. "...er hat sich (bei einem Seitensprung) ein paar kleine wei�e Punkte auf der Zunge eingefangen." :-)) But you will be able to find out yourself soon: the tape will go into mail these days. SWOON (Marilyn) I have to agree with their love of Bill Pullman though - he was so dreamy in "While you were Sleeping". And hysterically funny in "Ruthless People"! NEW PIC (Marilyn) Nan, is the photo Renate refers to the one from Vogue?? If not, where is that pretty boy??? I'm not sure if I understand what you are meaning: haven't you found the "Pensive Colin" pic (half profile in bw) on the Spring/Drool page that you find when you enter this place the "official" way, and want to know where it comes from, or do you refer to the much talked-of Vogue-pic with the read sweater? The latter one you will find if you go back on this topic - there are some very nice other pics, too. I wish I'd be better in HTML. I'll try in my next post. TUTORIAL? NAN, is there a kind of tutorial around here, how to link etc.?) I have some basic knowledge but keep on forgetting, so a place to check would be helpful. FILM DISCUSSION If it were just for Colin I'd say leave the discussion here, but if we're getting into other movies (which I'm all for, BTW) then yes, I think it should have it's own topic. I guess I got carried away a bit. Let's start with the Firth step first: Colin movies. When there's a request for other movies, we still can move.... PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION ...Let's choose a date for the discussion to begin and then one of us can start the new topic. Then go to it! You name the day. COLIN QUOTES ...the tall broad shouldered physique, the serious dark brown eyes...... Just to let this picture linger a while.....

NAN, how can I repeat here the pictures of response no 20, 28, 29, 33 .... there must be a tag line how to do it? Particularly No 20.... ...the tall broad shouldered physique, the serious dark brown eyes...... (it cannot be said or imagined too often :-.) *Ach!* (=*Sigh*)

Renate~ Here you go sister friend #28: Hope that worked--new at this ya know... As for #s 20 and 29 I think they are Susan's photos so we have to ask her if she would post them again. Susan--you out there. Renate-check your email (but since I sent it aol this could take a while! ;-)

It worked! YAY! :-D The most ridiculous things excite me...:-p

Just happened to pop in, and noticed that #20 and #29 have been requested. Who am I to deprive? ;-) Here goes one, with the other to follow:

The "Jessness" photo (and mighty fine wallpaper it makes):

Sorry! I may not be able to access that one anymore because it was on AOL, and I ain't. Hate to disappoint!

MORE COLIN QUOTES Always happy to oblige! I'll continue with snippets from the Daily Telegraph article (very reputable quality press).Here goes... Interviewer (female) comments on his "deep sexy voice"and his ability to porteay vulnerability. "As is well known, in fact, he has none of Mr Darcy's fastidious hauteur in relationships with the opposite sex. Film industry gosip suggests that his P&P co-star JE is not the only one of his leading ladies to have been involved with him off-screen. "An aunt begged him to turn down the role of Darcy so that he wouldn't ruin her schoolgirl fantasies" (Colin)"Here's me working my socks off for 10 years or so and the response is fairly modest actually. Then something where I hardly open my mouth gets me noticed. I have to think it's to do with things other than me...(the character, wealth of Mr Darcy etc)...Elizabeth wouldn't have married me!" (Colin on his disappearance to the Canadian backwoods) "I don't recommend it as a career move. But I didn't want my whole life to be about my career" (Colin on Hollywood... he's not keen)If I could find a fantastically intersting part that would make me rich and famous at the same time, I would probably take it. But there's nothing more embarrassing than selling out and nobody wanting to buy (Me on Colin..he should have more confidence in himself!) Anyway I've never been much good at strategy. I want to enjoy my life. It's as simple as that. "The grandson of Indian missionaries and son of teachers he spent his childhood in Nigeria, St Louis (USA), Hampshire, Bath, Billericay and Winchester." "When he was making Circle of Friends in Ireland he rented a flat for himself, his son and a nanny, cutting, colleagues remember, a rather poignant figure of lone parenthood." BBC producer on Colin .. He met Colin on a trip back home from Canada and "encountered him looking miserable in a Soho bar. "Colin said he didn't know what to do because Canada wasn't the right place for a British actor" (Another producer) "He's able to suggest a feeling of inner life in a way that most actors can't". Okay, enough for starters, I think.:-) I'll dip into my treasure trove (not binned!) at regular intervals to fill the Colin vacuum. All part of our mutual support service! A THOUSAND ACRES BTW, ET had a snippet interview with MP and JL and it featured some behind the scenes settings with CF in the background. However, no mention of him from either party! So, what else is new? It's very disappointing. And the reviews! This is not a good sign. And the reviews! What does this mean? Does Colin not get a mention? My one fear is that although Jess is integral to the book and definitely a lead figure, his character may be marginalised in the script in favour of a three-hander for the leading ladies. Tell me it isn't so, please!!! Colin has commented a couple of times that he doesn't care where he is in the billing or even the size of the part (if the overall script is good) but I'm afraid I want to see him in starring roles! Oh well,I wait with bate breath to have my fears unconfirmed.

Good News! I am watching Regis & Kathie Lee and they spent quite a while discussing ATA. Regis liked it very much and said he could not stop thinking about it. He said his wife,Joy, loved it! Regis said the only thing he didn't like was that all the men in the film were jerks! He said it was male bashing due to an all female production co. and writers. Also, Barbara Walters saw it and said she really loved it. So there is some good news! No direct mention of C. Regis didn't have any of the cast o so he had no reason to mention it. I am glad you all understand about the husband thing! Chey

A THOUSAND ACRES CONTINUED Forgot to mention, I found an interview with JL and MP in the on-line LA Times of Sunday 14 September, all about ATA. The URL for the LA Times is http://www.latimes.com/ You can get direct to the article (I hope!) on http://www.latimes.com/HOME/ENT/MOVIES/t000081608.html Quite a long,lively interview. ATA was very hard work (very tight schedule) and they were all exhausted. ATA is descibed as "Shakespeare meets Oprah in a classic tear-jerker". MP says that it's not a chick flick and that her husband thinks that this is the best and most malignant script he has ever read. No specific mention of Colin (surprise, surprise!) except as a member of the cast. The LA Times also listed other movies opening at the same time. There's a new Kevin Kline comedy and a new Kevin Spacey film, which both sound as though they'll clean up at the Box Office. I'm not sure how a serious drama based on King Lear will appeal to the masses!! FEVER PITCH Okay, back to my favourite topic! I see (courtesy of the aforementioned LA Times that yet another poorly reviewed UK movie (Intimate Relations) has opened in the US. I reckon that FP is just about the only recent British film not to get US distribution AND IT REALLY BUGS ME!!!! Have to let off steam! No wonder poor Colin always sounds so unconfident about taking on starring roles (and I don't want to see him ALWAYS in supporting roles!)Right, will never bring this up again!!!!I promise. MR DARCY Just read a lovely quote from Jane Austen in a recently published biography. About a ball.. "There was a scarcity of men in general, & a still greater scarcity of any that were good for much." Poor Jane (I think we all can sympathise!) - no wonder she had to create Fitzwilliam! I think she would have approved of Colin, as Mr D and as himself. :-) My son has accused me of hogging the computer (this is true!)... over to the rest of you!

I have no idea what I did with that last post--don't remember hitting the "submit response" button--but who knows? :-) COLIN QUOTES (Renate)hair curly-going on-tousled and thighs that can grip a mettlesome mare like a denture-fixative." LOL I never saw that one before. Thighs like "denture-fixative"--I'm cryin'! :-D It casts a light on how important the off-the-mainstream ATA must be for those who made it, that those publicity-shy people walk off their ways to promote it. This is a really nice way to think about it Renate--almost made me feel guilty for thinking only of Colin...almost, but not quite ;-p NEW PIC (Marilyn) Nan, is the photo Renate refers to the one from Vogue?? If not, where is that pretty boy??? Yes, I believe the latest picture at the top of the drool conference was originally from Vogue. TUTORIAL (Renate) , is there a kind of tutorial around here, how to link etc.?) I have some basic knowledge but keep on forgetting, so a place to check would be helpful. There is no html tutorial around here that I could find. There's always Ann's Tutorial at RoP, which I always find helpful. If you want to get a little fancier you can go to the Webmonkey--I love that place--so groovy! Webmonkey html tutorial I also sent you an email about this last night but since I did it from home, it could take 2 days before aol gets it to you :-( PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION (Renate) Then go to it! You name the day. Okay, let's give people some time to get their hands on a copy since many don't actually own it--say over the weekend? Discussion begins Sunday, September 21. THE "JESS"NESS PHOTO Many, many thanks for posting again Susan...such a beautiful picture.:-) Where did you find it originally? MORE COLIN QUOTES (Bethan) "Film industry gosip suggests that his P&P co-star JE is not the only one of his leading ladies to have been involved with him off-screen." Dontcha just love it? ;-D "When he was making Circle of Friends in Ireland he rented a flat for himself, his son and a nanny, cutting, colleagues remember, a rather poignant figure of lone parenthood." Oh, poor thing! I love these little snippets Bethan, thanks :-) A THOUSAND ACRES REVIEWS And the reviews! What does this mean? Does Colin not get a mention? Oooh sorry, Bethan--I read one at imdb that was not good and Colin was mentioned only in that he plays the part of Jess. Here's another that is equally depressing: A Thousand Acres Review No mention AT ALL!! Aaaaagh! Is this a sign of things to come?

THANK YOU, NAN AND SUSAN, FOR THE PICTURES! (BTW, where did you get them from?) THE CARETAKER / ...the tall broad shouldered physique, the serious dark brown eyes...... (Susan) The "Jessness" photo (and mighty fine wallpaper it makes): Right you are, I have it already, and I had to tidy up my desktop to get the full look at him! :-)) THOSE PUBLICITY-SHY PEOPLE (Nan) This is a really nice way to think about it Renate-- You may call me Jane, if you like. *blush* almost made me feel guilty for thinking only of Colin... Stop it, Lizzy! (Feeling guilty, I mean). TUTORIAL (Nan) .... If you want to get a little fancier you can go to the Webmonkey--I love that place--so groovy! Thank you for the link.! Looks very promising. COLIN QUOTES (Nan) I love these little snippets Bethan, thanks :-) Anche io. Me too! (Bethan) ) I'll dip into my treasure trove (not binned!) at regular intervals to fill the Colin vacuum. Anticip - - - - - - - - - - - ation!

COLIN PHOTOS (Marilyn) Nan, is the photo Renate refers to the one from Vogue?? If not, where is that pretty boy?? (Renate) I'm not sure if I understand what you are meaning: haven't you found the "Pensive Colin" pic (half profile in bw) on the Spring/Drool page that you find when you enter this place the "official" way, and want to know where it comes from, or do you refer to the much talked-of Vogue-pic with the read sweater? The latter one you will find if you go back on this topic - there are some very nice other pics, too. Renate - I'm sorry, but I must come in a different way because I haven't seen any photo ops here except when they've been included in a message--where do I go from here to find "Pensive Colin", among others? BTW, thank you for the "Jess"ness photo, Susan, it's become a favorite of mine...and thanks, Nan, for the repeat of #28 - he's so manly here. PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION I'm game, too. Can I join in Sept. 22? You know how I hate having to watch that movie(LOL)!! BETHAN I'm fully enjoying your reports - it doesn't take much to satisfy my appetite for things Colin. I only wish I had something to share, but as you can see, we're pretty starved over here! ATA You know if you watch real close and don't blink you can actually see him in the recent TV promos - like when that board game is tossed in his direction. I suppose he's still our little secret, but it's a shame he's so under-utilized. NAN Hope you're feeling better dearest, please take care :-)

COLIN PHOTO AT MAIN DROOL (Marilyn)-where do I go from here to find "Pensive Colin"? Oh Excellent Copper Bathing Pitcher Person: Sorry, I must have given you the link which takes you directly to the Colin topic. You can go to the main drool conference board here: Mr. Sexy Pants Lookin' Pensive PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION I'm game, too. Can I join in Sept. 22? You know how I hate having to watch that movie(LOL)!! Oh, Marilyn--I'm sorry I forgot it had to be a weekday for you. Of course you can come in on the 22nd--we're not going anywhere, that's for sure...:-p And I am feeling better my friend, thanks for asking :-)

I'M BACK, BUT ONLY FOR A SHORT TIME Been to the Continent. On the way out I found some snippets of info in the papers. TEP video is on sale - obviously on both sides of the Pond simultaneously. And Colin is one of the actors being considered for the role of Prof. Higgins in the London grand stage revival of My Fair Lady in the year 2000. Can't say that I find the image of Colin prancing and singing his way through a soppy musical particularly appealing, so it's just as well that Ralph Fiennes is tipped as the producers' preferred choice. I'm off to California next week hoping to see lots of interesting sights, but most importantly - ATA! So, sadly, I'll miss the PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION - perhaps just as well, for what is there to discuss?... The film was a piece of crap because it had a lousy script (or rather none at all), but Colin was rather watchable and had a few rather interesting moments. Some film reviewers even praised the "chemistry" between him and his leading lady. The contrast between the sinister Ross and pathetic Michael was probably what ultimately lured Colin to play the part(s), but as for the outcome, IMO, actors cannot be blamed for the end result of any production. And I don't think we're likely to see Colin so carelessly bare and very nearly completely exposed ever again. And yes, Darcy fully clothed was far, far sexier. OUT OF THE BLUE For the curious - no, he didn't do it with his tongue! At least not with Catherine ZJ... :-) Renate's summary is about right.It was a fairly light-hearted TV play about some issues of human relationships. The significance of the white spots on his tongue (presented to the camera in all its impressive length) is that it is a symptom of thrush (Candida - a sexually transmitted infection). Alan's friend's girlfriend has previously casually disclosed the fact to the other women. When Alan mentions it, he does 't realize the connection, and that is how Catherine's character finds out by coincidence that he had betrayed her. A sort of yuck-natural justice, if you like... FUNNY... Have you noticed the date of the Response 108?... Should we worry or be afraid?...

P.S. Oh, I forgot to add that during my visit on the Continent I unexpectedly came across Circle of Friends on the French cable TV. Hubby was moaning that HE was following us everywhere...

COLIN PHOTO AT MAIN DROOL (Nan)Oh Excellent Copper Bathing Pitcher Person: Sorry, I must have given you the link which takes you directly to the Colin topic. You can go to the main drool conference board here: Mr. Sexy Pants Lookin' Pensive LOL!! Nan (fortunate Keeper of his magnificent INCROYABLE), thanks for the link - I finally found Mr. Sexy Pants, along with those other Colin pleasers. I know you gave me both links originally, but I chose to come straight here and forgot about the other link. "Pensive Colin" really showcases that beautiful face - that chin, the jawline, his perfect nose...ahhhh!! :-.) PLAYMAKER (Arami)And I don't think we're likely to see Colin so carelessly bare and very nearly completely exposed ever again. And yes, Darcy fully clothed was far, far sexier. Agreed, Arami. Although I'm embarassed for him, I can't say I'm sorry to have seen him so carelessly bare. :-) COLIN QUOTES, ETC. Bethan (or anyone) - sorry if this has been asked before - but is World of Moss scheduled as an exclusive UK/European release (a la FP)? Are we to be deprived yet again?? Here's another question I'm sure has been asked before...what exactly is WofM about?? Bethan, please throw us more crumbs - I'm enjoying every quote!

FUNNY...BACK FROM THE FUTURE! (Observarami) Have you noticed the date of the Response 108?... Should we worry or be afraid?... Ooooops! Here I am - back from the year 2036, Feb. 7! Sorry ladies, was just a little accident with my Flux generator - i.e. time machine. I didn't mean to let anyone know, but since I have told you so far I can admit as well that I am not from Germany but from far Arcturus, and my hat is way too flat! But one thing I must tell you: last year - 2035 - at the Oscar night Colin Firth was nominated Best Actor the 27th time and won his 16th AA for his role as King Lear in "A Thousand Arcturians". Now back to nonsense: PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION (Marilyn) You know how I hate having to watch that movie(LOL)!! Oh, I know what you mean. Fortunately I have lent my copy presently, so I have to rely on my memory. :-)) TEP VIDEO ON SALE? (Arami)TEP video is on sale - obviously on both sides of the Pond simultaneously. Yippeeeh! Have you already spotted it? THE RAIN IN SPAIN... And Colin is one of the actors being considered for the role of Prof. Higgins in the London grand stage revival of My Fair Lady in the year 2000. I can see him play Prof. Higgins but not in the year 2000, helping to celebrate the grand turn-of-millennium circus. Nevah! BTW, does your source know if he has actually been asked or was he just 'considered'? So, sadly, I'll miss the PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION - perhaps just as well, for what is there to discuss?... Ah, Arami at her best, indeed. Bye, bye, dear! Happy to see you again in a month! :-)) And don't forget your travel-buckets! (I don't want to put 3 smilies behind every sentence, but I think you know anyway that this paragraph is plastered with a bucket load of smilies? :-)) ) The film was a piece of crap because it had a lousy script (or rather none at all), For me, not being a film professional, it is not so easy to recognise what is to blame on the script, and what on the director, f.e.. Can't a good director save a weak script? Or does the script ruin the director? ..... Circle of Friends on the French cable TV. Hubby was moaning that HE was following us everywhere... But after all, he recognized him right away - good. :-.))

OUR COL'S LOVELY BOD (Marilyn)I can't say I'm sorry to have seen him so carelessly bare. LOL! Oh, no, of course not! He's got such a lovely body, it's such a joy to ogle!!! It's so pleasingly well proportioned, with superb, naturally broad shoulders and discreet, light and generally sparse body hair. And yet, endearingly, it is not quite perfect - e.g. his extremities are somewhat on the thin side and his skin seems prone to a variety of moles, bumps and spots, some permanent, some less so... Anyone care to continue?:-)...

TEP VIDEO ON SALE It's being advertized in Britain at �14.99 (PAL system)- about $24 - whilst in the US the full price (NTSC format) appears to be around $105 ($80 discounted)!!! THE RAIN IN SPAIN... Fiennes is in the front line for this job - Colin is also considered along with two or three other actors. I know he can play anybody and anything, butI don't want him to go into musicals! PLAYMAKER Can't a good director save a weak script? Or does the script ruin the director? Both, I imagine... There is a saying to the effect that even the epitome of wisdom, King Solomon, would find it impossible to pour anything out of an empty vessel... Sometimes a weak script might have to be extensively rewritten to be saved. A good director would probably be better off rejecting a weak story altogether, unless it is REALLY worth saving. Playmaker starts in a mildly interesting way and then suddenly goes off the rails. Perhaps it needed a different ending (could you propose an alte native which could have saved it?) P.S. No, my hubby didn't actually recognize Colin - but he guessed it was him judging from my frantic reaction...:-)

There is someone in Ramble in RoP who has seen ATA. She said it was very sad. She also said Colin's part was rather small. I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT! In the book, Jess is one of the main charaters and is on almost every page. They must have made his part small and explored the sister angle a lot more. RATS! I just can't get enough of him on screen! Chey

COLIN AS HENRY HIGGINS (Arami) And Colin is one of the actors being considered for the role of Prof. Higgins in the London grand stage revival of My Fair Lady in the year 2000. Can't say that I find the image of Colin prancing and singing his way through a soppy musical particularly appealing, Actually, Professor Higgins is a great part--the dialogue is wonderful. I love that show. If my memory of Rex Harrison is accurate, he pretty much talks his way through the songs (though I hear Colin likes to sing) and doesn't "prance" at all. LOL!! I don't know if Colin is cranky enough to play Higgins, but then again...Colin can do anything. :-) I'm off to California next week hoping to see lots of interesting sights, but most importantly - ATA! Oy, your poor haunted husband! ;-D He'll really think Colin is stalking you now. :-) PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION (Arami)- perhaps just as well, for what is there to discuss?... The film was a piece of crap because it had a lousy script (or rather none at all), I absolutely agree with that statement. What a horror! However, I haven't seen it in a while and I'm trying to keep an open mind. We're tryng to find out what makes it such a bad movie...which shouldn't be too hard. And yes, Darcy fully clothed was far, far sexier. Oh Yhess, he certainly was! *pant* OUT OF THE BLUE (Arami) The significance of the white spots on his tongue (presented to the camera in all its impressive length) Ooooooh, don't go there--I'm getting all hot and stuff!! ;-p FUNNY... Have you noticed the date of the Response 108?... Should we worry or be afraid?... I did and LMAO too! Renate: Time Trekker! ;-) Hubby was moaning that HE was following us everywhere... LOL! :-D At least he was moaning...0;-p COLIN PHOTO AT MAIN DROOL (Marilyn) LOL!! Nan (fortunate Keeper of his magnificent INCROYABLE), That's HIS INCROYABLE if you please...;-p "Pensive Colin" really showcases that beautiful face - that chin, the jawline, his perfect nose...ahhhh!! :-.) I know, isn't he just so beautiful it aches? God bless his little cotton socks...;-) COLIN QUOTES, ETC. (Marilyn) Is World of Moss scheduled as an exclusive UK/European release (a la FP)? Are we to be deprived yet again?? Actually I think it's scheduled only for US release at present, but I don't know what it's about. InformArami--how about you? BACK FROM THE FUTURE (Renate) I didn't mean to let anyone know, but since I have told you so far I can admit as well that I am not from Germany but from far Arcturus, and my hat is way too flat! Wiseguy!;-) But one thing I must tell you: last year - 2035 - at the Oscar night Colin Firth was nominated Best Actor the 27th time and won his 16th AA for his role as King Lear in "A Thousand Arcturians". From your mouth to God's ears...;-) OUR COL'S LOVELY BOD (Arami) He's got such a lovely body, it's such a joy to ogle!!! It's so pleasingly well proportioned, with superb, naturally broad shoulders and discreet, light and generally sparse body hair. Man after my own heart...;-p And yet, endearingly, it is not quite perfect - e.g. his extremities are somewhat on the thin side and his skin seems prone to a variety of moles, bumps and spots, some permanent, some less so... Aaah, to play connect the dots with Colin! What a naughty, lovely, moderately kinky thought. ;-) Anyone care to continue?:-)... Well, I don't know how I could possibly top that very eloquent "endearingly, it is not quite perfect"--great description...just exactly what I've thought myself. What I find attractive is the way he wears his clothes. You could put him in a sack and he'd look good. I think that is because of the naturally lithe, very manly V-shape of his body. Sorry...time to pop in a tape ;-).... ;-).... ;-)..... TEP VIDEO ON SALE (Arami) whilst in the US the full price (NTSC format) appears to be around $105 ($80 discounted)!!! I'm going to check again tomorrow, but last I heard it was being released on Tuesday, 9/23 and the price was $24.99. THE RAIN IN SPAIN... (Arami) Fiennes is in the front line for this job - Colin is also considered along with two or three other actors. I know he can play anybody and anything, butI don't want him to go into musicals! Why? Don't like musicals much? And, you know, as far as musicals go, My fair Lady is not very sappy. PLAYMAKER (Arami) Playmaker starts in a mildly interesting way and then suddenly goes off the rails. Perhaps it needed a different ending (could you propose an alte native which could have saved it?) I don't think anything could have saved that movie.

A THOUSAND ACRES Just checked out a couple of reviews (male reviewers) on-line (LA Times, Boston Globe) Both quite favourable and considerable praise for the lead actresses, but "the problem is how insubstantial the men come off the screen, as opposed to how they're presented in the novel." As Chey said "Oh, rats!!!!" No mention of Colin in the reviews (so, what's new!) I am waiting to hear a first-hand account(how's the accent?}....any snippets will do! But I was hoping that Jess would be more central and give him a Holl wood boost. SNIFF, SNIFF!! (And they are not showing FP.. Ooops! Sorry, wasn't going to mention that!!) BUT I have actually glimpsed Colin in ATA. British TV showed JL, MP, JJL, JR at the premiere and THEN, a clip from the film of Colin smiling and hugging JL and MP. Again no actual mention of Colin! By dint of ramming a cassette into the VCR I managed to record it. He looks very, very cute and I was absolutely delighted to have two seconds of him. But I do need more!!! Some leading roles, p-l-ee-ase!! 'ENERY 'IGGINS I think that Colin would make a marvellous Professor Higgins - along the lines of Rex Harrison. It's a masculine assertive role. But I suppose that RF will get it. RF has had (says she cattily) a gilded career whereas Colin has his blips and a tendency to be OVERLOOKED!. WORLD OF MOSS (Marilyn) What is WOM about? I'm much more hopeful about this. He has to top the billing here. It's based on an autobiography by Denis Forman and he plays Edward ,the husband/father in an eccentric aristocratic Scottish family. It's set in the 1930s and is about the young son's relationship with his parents and is supposed to have a dark, funny script. It has an excellent cast, including Irene Jacob (stunningly beautiful)with whom Edward (nearly?) has an affair. The Scottish setting alone should make it worth watching (spent a holida in that area a few years ago) and HE will be on the screen for more than five minutes!!! It's scheduled to open in the US, but no dates here. PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION I quite like PM because (and this is sheer desperation speaking!!)he is on screen for most of the movie :-)Sometimes I need more than five minutes quality time!! COLIN's BOD He's so endearingly un-vain. Quite lanky and athletic but obviously has no interest in working out for extra muscles and preening in front of a mirror. And I love the combination of lean hips and broad shoulders. (CASTING DIRECTORS, are you LISTENING?!!!) WHAT IS HE DOING NOW? A prize for the first to give the definitive answer:-) He's not in LA. MY bet is that he's filming Secret Laughter of Women (SLOW!!)in France. It sounds an interesting project and good location, The screen writer has a Nigerian name and I know that there's a lot of good African writing at the moment. But it's not a Hollywood-type project. Has anyone any REAL news as opposed to inspired guess work. (BTW - A Colin-link - he spent his childhood (until 4 years old) in Nigeria, we also worked in Nigeria and my elder son also spent his first four years there, very happily!) MORE COLIN QUOTES For all the Colin-starved, another stab at infringing copyright! Colin on TEP "I found myself sitting there with this incredibly passionate love story unfolding and thiking to myself, well, I don't see what's so moving about it, it doesn't turn me on. My wife's shagging this other bloke, what's so special about him anyway." He laughs heartily and goes to the bar to buy me (Nick Hornby) a drink. Nick Hornby on Colin "Of course, and doesn't it make you sick,CF is a genuinely nice guy, smart, funny, self-deprecating, complicated, good company. He even has exemplary taste in music and books". Colin on P&P "I was ready to run for cover incase it was scorned" (ME -he is too unassuming!) Colin "Engish people can be a bit churlish when they recognise you. They'll come up to you and want to show that they're not impressed and end up being rude. It's the opposite in America where - it doesn't happen to me but I've seen it happen to others - people say 'I like your work, can I have your autograph' and then they go away. In England, they say 'Are you that bloke from the programme. And if you say 'yes' they might say 'No, you're NOT'. Then if you say 'No you're right. I'm not' they'll say 'You loody ARE!' (ME - one-up for the US. Again note his modesty!) Will stop now. More next.. some very serious profound quotes by Colin on life etc. Now, someone put me out of my agony about ATA!!:-) I'm hoping for reasonably good movie, reasonably good (but short, SNIFF!)performance. No more!

LOST LETTERS What's happening to b (loody?) and y?

OUR COL'S LOVELY BOD (Arami) LOL! Oh, no, of course not! He's got such a lovely body, it's such a joy to ogle!!! .........It's so pleasingly well proportioned, with superb, naturally broad shoulders .....And yet, endearingly, it is not quite perfect - e.g. his extremities are somewhat on the thin side (Nan) What I find attractive is the way he wears his clothes. You could put him in a sack and he'd look good. I think that is because of the naturally lithe, very manly V-shape of his body. Nan, Arami, I've heard/seen:-) you and some others mention frequently that he is too thin - f.e. in Fever Pitch. I think he is just very slim, and the musles not prominent, or worked-out. I think we are so used to see gym-modelled muscles from most (American) actors, that we tend to forget that there is a diversity of natural condition of bodies as opposed to the studio-shaped ones (BWT, I don't mind muscles, f.e. Eric Roberts - Ouch, don't slap me!). It's rather unusual for actors nowadays to be not at a l "beefed up". That, BTW, makes our dear boy such a good dress model, together with his "pleasing proportions". And there are some things that you cannot get in a gym: f.e. his beautiful neckline. It would rather be spoiled by muscle training. What do you think: does he do anything but dieting (?) to keep in shape? Do you think he should do some workouts? (Yes, I know what you are thinking! :-.)) Ok, let's found 'Colin's Workout Studio', where we can exercise with him, CoLoonies! Any suggestions? *sigh*ned by VoyeuRenate .....and his skin seems prone to a variety of moles, bumps and spots, some permanent, some less so... ... MicroscopArami? THE 'AIN IN 'PAIN (Arami) ...I don't want him to go into musicals! As long as he does not play cute little choochoo-engines on roller blades he has my permission! But I'd prefer the original G.B.Shaw to the musical, too. COF No, my hubby didn't actually recognize Colin - but he guessed it was him judging from my frantic reaction...:-) Arami, oh, Arami! :-)) A THOUSAND ACRES (Chey) I just can't get enough of him on screen! Nor do I. When you read this you will probably have seen it already - a full steaming hot report please! :-)) I'm not afraid of spoilers! It's scheduled for Germany in March only!!! (Nan) I know, isn't he just so beautiful it aches? That's why ATA is called 'A 1000 aches'. (Not my invention, alas, but good, isn't it.) God bless his little cotton socks...;-) Socks? Though we seem to know about everything of him, here is a gap: what's the size of his socks and shoes? (ponder, ponder, - - - Do I really want to know? No. :-)) CONNECT THE DOTS (Nan) Aaah, to play connect the dots with Colin! What a naughty, lovely, moderately kinky thought. ;-) Oh, good idea, Nan. I have a mole on my right thigh pretty much on the same spot where he has one on the left thigh ..... thank you for fuelling my fantasies! :-)=)

LOODY LETTER EATER! (Bethan) What's happening to b (loody?) and y? No idea what happened to 'bloody andy', but this software by the name of 'yapp-bin' (sic!) is snipping letters randomly. I think this a very charming little bug, and very promising. :-))

A THOUSAND ACRES I am waiting to hear a first-hand account(how's the accent?}....any snippets will do! But I was hoping that Jess would be more central and give him a Hollywood boost. I will indeed post snippets as soon as I return from the theatre this evening, but I'm not hopeful about the outcome. All the reviews I've read are...er, mixed. they complain about the script a lot. Most of the (minimal) praise is directed at the women's roles (JL in particular) and barely any mention of Colin at all. Today's NY Post says this: "...both Lange and Pfeiffer find themselves romantically drawn toward a curly-headed hippie prodigal (Colin Firth) who has returned after many years' absence to a neighbor's farm". That's it--nothing about the performance. UGH! The nerve!! The NY Times was even worse: "...various husbands and boyfriends (Keith Carradine, Kevin Anderson, Colin Firth) who barely register here". AAAAAGH! I fear I shall have to savor every Colin moment because they are sounding few and far between. WORLD OF MOSS He has to top the billing here. And it's about time too! You're right, that sounds much more promising. PLAYMAKER DISCUSSION Bethan) I quite like PM because (and this is sheer desperation speaking!!)he is on screen for most of the movie :-) Desperation indeed :-p MORE COLIN QUOTES (Bethan) "My wife's shagging this other bloke, what's so special about him anyway." (Snip) 'You bloody ARE!' I just love it when he gets all British. For an American, words like "shagging" and "bloke" and "bloody" are tremendously charming...perhaps because we cannot use them with the same gusto. You have to have a British accent to get away with words like that. I'm so jealous. :-) LOST LETTERS What's happening to b (loody?) and y? Just a software quirk for which there is apparently no cure. It's kinda cute though :-)

OUR COL'S LOVELY BOD (Renate) I think we are so used to see gym-modelled muscles from most (American) actors, that we tend to forget that there is a diversity of natural condition of bodies as opposed to the studio-shaped ones I'm not big on muscles (well not very prominent ones I mean) but perhaps his height, coupled with the natural slimness gives him the impression of being "skinny". (BWT, I don't mind muscles, f.e. Eric Roberts - Ouch, don't slap me!). LOL! I rather like Eric Roberts--all those little facial scars really turn me on!;-) What do you think: does he do anything but dieting (?) to keep in shape? Do you think he should do some workouts? He probably doesn't even diet--looks like one of those people who can eat anything and stay thin. But I would never suggest his working out--just fine the way he is (thin and all) ;-p THE 'AIN IN 'PAIN (Renate) As long as he does not play cute little choochoo-engines on roller blades he has my permission! This would be a little tough to take ;-) A THOUSAND ACRES (Nan) I know, isn't he just so beautiful it aches? That's why ATA is called 'A 1000 aches'. (Not my invention, alas, but good, isn't it.) Yeah, I've seen that one too. I'll let you know later this evening if I think it applies :-) (Nan) God bless his little cotton socks...;-) (Renate) Socks? Though we seem to know about everything of him, here is a gap: what's the size of his socks and shoes? (ponder, ponder, - - - Do I really want to know? No. :-)) Well, you know what they say about big shoes! ... BIG FEET! LOL ;-D CONNECT THE DOTS (Nan) Aaah, to play connect the dots with Colin! What a naughty, lovely, moderately kinky thought. ;-) Oh, good idea, Nan. I have a mole on my right thigh pretty much on the same spot where he has one on the left thigh ..... thank you for fuelling my fantasies! :-)=) Anytime m'dear. :-) I've got plenty of those moles to play with, but alas, none on my face...;-.)

ALL THAT BEAUTY AND HUMILITY, TOO?? (Arami)He's got such a lovely body, it's such a joy to ogle!!! (Nan)What I find attractive is the way he wears his clothes. You could put him in a sack and he'd look good. I think that is because of the naturally lithe, very manly V-shape of his body. (Renate)That, BTW, makes our dear boy such a good dress model, together with his "pleasing proportions". And there are some things that you cannot get in a gym: f.e. his beautiful neckline. (Bethan)He's so endearingly un-vain...And I love the combination of lean hips and broad shoulders. We are sooo of like minds, ladies! And Arami, "ogle" is such a great word! Not only is he my idea of masculine perfection - the height, long legs, broad shoulders (Nan's "manly V" fits beautifully) - but he has that face that makes you want to cry and such humility! There are few things more attractive than a handsome man who is unassuming. As his "casual" photos suggest, the man hasn't a vain bone in his entire edible body! ;-) And I loved that quote you gave us, Bethan: "...It's the opposite in America where - it doesn't happen to me - but I've seen it happen to others...". So sweet, it makes me want to take him right here, right now! ;-)...;-)... WORLD OF MOSS (Bethan)It has an excellent cast, including Irene Jacob (stunningly beautiful) with whom Edward (nearly?) has an affair. The Scottish setting alone should make it worth watching. Bethan, thanks for the summary - I had no idea what it was about or whether he had a "starring" role in it. And I agree, Irene Jacob IS stunning. I last saw her in Othello. Do you know who play's Colin's wife? Oh, and my "date" for ATA was postponed till Monday (if I can wait that long). It looks like Nan will be reporting first - in fact, she's probably at her local cineplex as I write!

Been away for a day again - and you've said it all, dear CoLoonies, there's not a lot I can add to the above! Except two things, perhaps: my info about seemingly outrageous prices for TEP video in US comes from an otherwise very reliable source... but on this occasion something must have gone wrong, and I cannot discount my own failure either... And I happen to know his shoe size!!! But I'm not telling you! Naah-naah-nah-nah-naaaah! Wanna have a guess?...

A THOUSAND ACRES Oh, thanks for going to see ATA, Nan - I'll eagerly await your report. But I'm prepared to be very disappointed. :-( I really thought that Jess would be a major dramatic role for Colin! Scanned some more on-line reviews on the Net - they're very much in the loved it/hated it mode (about 50/50, no middle ground). But even the 'loved-its' (and there are some very good reviews) only refer to the leading ladies and dismiss the men as peripheral to the script (unlike the novel). One interesting, but rather depressing, fact is that apparently the director Jocelyn Morehouse and the screenwriter Laura Jones have both asked to be disassociated from the movie. At the behest of Disney and JL/MP, the film was re-edited to focus primarily on the three sisters. Morehouse did not agree with this interpretation and said that she did not recognise the final version as hers. She and Jones did not attend the Premiere. Does this make any sense, Nan? Did the men end up on the cutting room floor? Is that why the movie is called "choppy"? Oh well, it doesn't help Colin. Go for the starring roles, laddie, and stuff Hollywood!! I just hope that the movie is ok (not outstanding, but watchable) and that Colin makes some impact.I was hoping for an Oscar, but I've revised my hopes:-):-((!! Why is it R rated BTW? MP was asked in an interview about the nudity (she said she used a body double). Are the two facts related? One review said that there was strong sex, another said there was "understated sex"!!! Are they watching the same film? Over to you, Nan. There's not even a release date for the UK, so all snippets are welcome! At the moment, the only advantage that I can see in ATA is that (like TEP) it may be a film that a lot of women around the world (not men, although for MP, perhaps yes) will want to see (not everyone analyses reviews!)and so women will be reminded that Colin exists!

I took the Vogue pic that was posted earlier, shrunk it and airbrushed out the words (Also check out two pics together):

A THOUSAND ACRES Ouch, Nan! That hurt! Sent me straight to raid the cookie jar for comfort food! It's made worse because I had such high hopes of ATA and particularly for the role of Jess. LONG S-I-GH!!!But many thanks for sharing your impressions so promptly -can I just ask one or two more questions before I hit the cookie jar again. :-) Just how cameo is cameo? Jess is so central to the novel that I can't see how his role was reduced. What about the long conversations with Ginny on his mother's death etc. How does he tell Ginny he doesn't love her, react to his father's blindness? And what about his relationship with Rose? Even if Jess's role is cut back he stll has to be in the background in several scenes - the courtroom, playing monopoly ets. For just how much of the movie is Colin a visible presence? 10 minutes? 20 - I daren't ask for more!! Actually the more I think about the novel, the more disappointed I feel. RATS!!! But (TRYING TO LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE) he seems very good to look at, his accent is OK (I mean, I can't imagine Hugh Grant doing "American"!), he sweated, he jogged,he took off his shirt... BTW why did women gasp and GIGGLE? I hope that despite the limitations of the part his Mr Sexypants image shone through!!

A THOUSAND ACHES Well, there's a surprise... But I'm not surprised. Sad, disappointed, but not surprised. It proves yet again what we all know and hate to admit: women make lousy organizers and sloppy artists. All right, there are exceptions of course, but it only reaffirms the general rule. As soon as I heard the news of the rift between the scriptwriter, the director and the two main producers who happen to be the stars of the movie - all bloody bitches, some probably in the middle of menopause and behaving stupidly, I knew it would look ugly. Sorry, Colin...

CONNECT THE DOTS (Nan) Aaah, to play connect the dots with Colin! What a naughty, lovely, moderately kinky thought. ;-) (Renate) Oh, good idea, Nan. I have a mole on my right thigh pretty much on the same spot where he has one on the left thigh ..... thank you for fuelling my fantasies! :-)=) (Nan) Anytime m'dear. :-) I've got plenty of those moles to play with, but alas, none on my face...;-.) Hey, only now I understand what was meant with "Connect the dots". I misunderstood gloriously: my mind was still more agreeably engaged. I did not get that it means to connect the dots on one body with a pencil or whatever, but I thought the task is to connect the dots in body-to-body-contact...... and yes, it's a pity in this case, too, if you don't happen to have dots on the upper lip. Anyone here with this feature? BLESS HIS LITTLE COTTON SOCKS (Arami) And I happen to know his shoe size!!! LOL!!! I knew there are only few bits about Colin that are not yet researched. (Bethan) Why is it R rated BTW? MP was asked in an interview about the nudity (she said she used a body double). For close up of mastectomy scar, I suppose. Are the two facts related? One review said that there was strong sex, another said there was "understated sex"!!! Are they watching the same film? Many of the reviews I've read are contradictory, and controverse. As you say, you get the impression, the people saw different films. There's no other way but to wait until I get to see ATA myself. ATA First: Nan, thank you very much for your full report. His fans are some of the severest critics for sure ..... I can hardly reply to any of your points, since I have no first-hand knowledge about it. All second-hand information are highly contradictory, as mentioned above. For sure, it is a disappointment that this will not be his major break through in the US, but lets put this into perspective. Even if ATA is going to be one of the most scolded and criticized films of this season, it is still a high quality production that gets a lot of attention. It's one more step for Colin to be recognised in the US. And anybody who saw this film admits that he looks gorgeous. It that nothing? The film industry will know his reputation as an excellent dramatic actor, even if he could n t prove it here. But from what I hear, he has created again a figure different to any of his former roles, accent and voice included. (There are many actors - and good ones - who mostly look and talk the same in every film - 3 films and you know the face complete; of Colin I have seen at least 10 films, most of them more than once, and he still has the power to surprise me f.e. in FP). We know he is a master of diversity and of the subtle shades and colours. And many of those you only discover with repeat d viewing..... it took even some time to warm up to Mr Darcy, and he had much more screen time... :-)) A GAME BTW, in which big American production would you like to see Colin? Describe 3 films you would like to see him in! TIME FLIES (Nan) 1) Colin is lovely to look at 2) Facially, he looks older than I remember--which I like very much; jolly laugh lines and happy little crow's feet. Made the same observation FP - and then I realised it was the first film (except TEP) with him I saw on the big screen, where the reproduction quality is definitely much better and - larger! The small tv-screen 'swallows' a lot of visual information. Ann, thanks for "time flies" pictures! It does, indeed. A THOUSAND ACHES (Arami) It proves yet again what we all know and hate to admit: women make lousy organizers and sloppy artists. All right, there are exceptions of course, but it only reaffirms the general rule. I contradict. There have been MUCH more bad films (and any kind of art) made by man up to now than by women. But apart from that women are entitled to make mistakes, errors and being incompetent, too, without being disqualified in a lump. BTW, women are excellent organizers. No advertising agency I know - and there are many - could survive 2 weeks without the organizing skills of the women employed.

ATA RATING (Bethan) Why is it R rated BTW? MP was asked in an interview about the nudity (she said she used a body double). (Renate) For close up of mastectomy scar, I suppose. Very good Renate! Also there is a considerable amount of cursing...and maybe the subject matter too (incest, etc.)? CONNECT THE DOTS (Renate) I did not get that it means to connect the dots on one body with a pencil or whatever, but I thought the task is to connect the dots in body-to-body-contact...... Oooh, I like your version much better! ;-D and yes, it's a pity in this case, too, if you don't happen to have dots on the upper lip. Anyone here with this feature? Well now, if we play the game your way wouldn't it be better to have the dots on the er,...body? ;-p I have several in choice places :-D SEX IN ATA Are the two facts related? One review said that there was strong sex, another said there was "understated sex"!!! Are they watching the same film? (Bethan) One review said that there was strong sex, another said there was "understated sex"!!! Are they watching the same film? There are no sex scenes at all. ATA REVIEW Renate, I very much like your optimistic take on this whole thing. I was thinking today that I would likely go see it again to give it a fair shake. I don't know...perhaps I was too critical of the film in my frustration on Colin's behalf. Then again, maybe not. :-) it took even some time to warm up to Mr Darcy I have to disagree with you here m'dear--I was quite warm by the time he said, "I rarely dance"...I was positively hot by "on foot?"---In fact, I'm kinda flushed just thinking about it ;-p A GAME (Renate) BTW, in which big American production would you like to see Colin? Describe 3 films you would like to see him in! Ooooh, good one Renate! I have to think about this one. Are there any other rules here? Any time period or just current movies?

A GAME (Renate) BTW, in which big American production would you like to see Colin? Describe 3 films you would like to see him in! (Nan) I have to think about this one. Are there any other rules here? Any time period or just current movies? Don't feel limited in any way. :-)) To support your memory, here are some genre categories: Action, mystery, history, western, sci-fi, drama (oh, please...not :-)) ), italo-american :-.)) ), comedy, romance, tarantino/ferrara, ...:-)) And you may plan remakes of already existing movies, or invent them yourselves....... only rule is: describe Colin's part, performance, and looks as detailed as possible. :-))

BLESS HIS LITTLE COTTON SOCKS (Arami) And I happen to know his shoe size!!! (Renate)I knew there are only few bits about Colin that are not yet researched. Yes, whatever precious little of himself he managed to save from the camera lens... A THOUSAND A C H E S (Arami) women make lousy organizers and sloppy artists... there are exceptions of course (Renate)I contradict. There have been MUCH more bad films (and any kind of art) made by man up to now than by women. That's because many more men have been active in these - and other - fields than women. women are entitled to make mistakes, errors and being incompetent, too, without being disqualified in a lump. Wrong. Due to the centuries of male domination, women have an obligation to prove to men and to themselves that they are at least just as competent but preferably better. women are excellent organizers. No advertising agency I know... could survive 2 weeks without the organizing skills of the women... We are talking services and support here - I want to stress art and creativity. Women are overall weaker in these fields.I'm in no humour at present to give consequence to any ladies who are slighted by other men... you are wasting your time with me...

A THOUSAND A C H E S (Arami) you are wasting your time with me... Am I? oh. Here we go: "Generalization of every kind is my abhorrence" (Renate) ....women are entitled to make mistakes, errors and being incompetent (as individuals), too, without being disqualified (as "the" women) in a lump. (...in brackets added later for clarification) (Arami) ... women have an obligation to prove to men and to themselves that they are at least just as competent but preferably better. That's reciprocal dependency. ......I want to stress art and creativity. Women are overall weaker in these fields. While I agree about women being not equally represented in these fields, I am uncomfortable with this kind of generalizations: women are not "overall weaker" but: there are less women in the respective fields, still much less women with outstanding work. But when they are good or excellent they are as good or excellent as anyone in their class, and not "overall weaker".

A THOUSAND A C H E S (Arami) you are wasting your time with me... Am I? oh. Here we go: "Generalization of every kind is my abhorrence" (Renate) ....women are entitled to make mistakes, errors and being incompetent (as individuals), too, without being disqualified (as "the" women) in a lump. (...in brackets added later for clarification) (Arami) ... women have an obligation to prove to men and to themselves that they are at least just as competent but preferably better. That's reciprocal dependency. ......I want to stress art and creativity. Women are overall weaker in these fields. While I agree about women being not equally represented in these fields, I am uncomfortable with this kind of generalizations: women are not "overall weaker" but: there are less women in the respective fields, still fewer women with outstanding work. But when they are good or excellent they are as good or excellent as anyone in their class, and not "overall weaker".

Oooops. Good night. :-))

A THOUSAND A C H E S Yes, yes, YESSS!!! You're right (=politically correct), of course. But privately I'm terribly old-fashioned and anti-feminist. Anti-myself, really...:-)

Arami, do you never sleep? :-))

Nan, Thanks for the indepth report on ATA. I still haven't seen it yet. I just cannot understand why anyone would make a movie of a book and COMPLETELY change the important elements that made the book famous(even though I personally didn't like the book either). I thought Jess Clark was very important to the story, in fact he seemed to me to be the main element that brought the tension between the sisters to a head. I just can't figure out who decided to change the story. Do you think it was the lead ng ladies' egos? MP said she and JL both wanted Colin for the part of Jess, so they had to know what a capable actor he is, so why would his part become so unimportant that anyone could have done it. Jess really needed to be someone who was so wonderful that he could cause the sisters to have a serious split(enough to want to kill the other one.) One last thought, when I read the book I pictured MP as Jenny and JL as Rose. I just can't think of them the other way. JL is always so much more powerful t an MP. ( I hope I got the names right, can't remember)