I also get the feeling that there's a definite anti-RZ backlash in our press. So for damage-limitation sake, it's time Working Title announced some Brit casting!! On a positive note, I think that RZ is v. popular with the folks who matter...younger male movie goers (and Helena B-C isn't!)

there's a definite anti-RZ backlash in our press That's a given for any American actress 'cept Julia Roberts or Gwynnie. I say :"Get over it ". Anyway, the UK Box Office receipts are v. small. I just checked the #1 film last week in UK was "Ripley", it took in UKP153,611.("This is London") That's not even $300,000.I bet LA does better than that on a weekend! ~~~~~~~ ..GBP5million romantic comedy. This is a small budget film. I doubt if they will do mega-publicity for this amount. Agree with Bethan ..time for Working Title to put a spin on the bad press and announce our British hero as the co-star.

The UK market is a very small one, and to be honest, if only the UK is targeted, it's hardly worth the effort. I think that by going for RZ, Working Title have a good a chance of success in the all important US market. And in publicity terms there's a lot to be said for being known as Jim Carrey's girlfriend! What claim to fame does the Swansea-born Catherine Z-J have, for goodness sake!!! I've just watched "Notting Hill" (on video, of course!). Must be the last person in the world to see it. But it was most certainly the luminous Julia Roberts who made it watchable and successful....otherwise it would have just been an extended British sitcom (Most of the British actors were familiar from sitcom work.) I know most people love "Notting Hill" but I found myself sincerely hoping that BJD won't be "Notting Hill 2". In many ways, I think that Andrew Davies is a better writer than Richard Curtis...I hope his original screenplay hasn't been given too much of a face-lift. And I hope that Mark Darcy is rather sardonic and reserved (a grown-up), not a "boy in love"! �5million isn't much...has to be an all Brit supporting cast! But then it shouldn't be an expensive movie to shoot, mainly interior shots, and some London location work.

Just saw this on the Sunday Mirror on-line edition ... THE DIARY: HUGH GRANT WANTS BRIDGET JONES ROLE HUGH Grant has thrown his fringe into the ring in the battle to play Bridget Jones's fella in the movie of her best-selling diary. Colin Firth was believed to have already landed the role of dashing Mark Darcy, but insiders reckon Hugh is now favourite with Colin being relegated to play one of Bridget's pals. If it comes to fisticuffs, I wonder who'll be first to step into the breech.

Nevah! Impossible, well I for one won't be buying a cinema ticket if this is the case and surely Colin won't play one of the lesser parts. Talk about ruining my Sunday.

HUGH Grant has thrown his fringe into the ring in the battle to play Bridget Jones's fella in the movie of her best-selling diary Oh Marianne, say it isn't so! And I do know you're just the messenger, dear :-). Please no, not Hugh! I have nothing against Mr. Grant, but I won't be able to bear those halting, blinky mannerisms in Mark Darcy. Particularly since we know who is the perfect MD. Please, please make this just be a rumor.

A-argh!! Absolutely my worst nightmare (having just watched "Notting Hill")and I mean WORST!!! Well, so we can now look forward to Notting Hill 2. Perhaps Colin can play Tom! Or,of course, a 2 second appearance as Mr Darcy on television. Jee-z, and what does it mean, "Thrown his fringe/hat"...can he just take roles away from people at the last minute..they start shooting in 6 weeks. On the other hand this is a tabloid report (ie likely not to be based on facts)and the budget is only �5million, Hugh's asking rate. Unless they up the budget. On the other, other hand, it's Hollywood, Colin's not a name (Who is this guy?) and things that I have believed could never, never happen, not in a trillion years, well, sometimes they do. And I don't like the delay in annoucing the cast. Worst case scenario, he could play Daniel. But if it's HG for MD, I think Colin should withdraw with quiet dignity from the whole mess. And I hope it's an absolute box office DISASTER!! Like "Mickey Blue Eyes". Thought HG was going to do "About a Boy" anyway...is he mopping up on all the leading man roles? And don't the powers that be in Hollywood realise that although Hugh is pretty, women in the UK do not find him attractive. How about in the US?

Oh Bethan, I thought you might have said something to make me feel better, this is a disaster, there is only ONE, man who can play MR. Darcy. (I think I am having one of Mrs. Bennet's turns). I agree if he does not play MD then he should have nothing to do with BJD and do the Maid of Buttermere. Actually even if people are not Colin Firth fans as such I think most people associate Mr. Darcy with Colin Firth, I just can't see them accepting Hugh Grant, at lease not in the UK.

Sorry, Ann! I actually don't believe this, but at the same time I do. It's the delay in announcing further casting that makes me shiver in my shoes, and the Hollywood connection...Hugh is Hollywood, Colin ain't. But it's a low budget movie....and why is HG allegedly interested now, at virtually the last minute. Perhaps he has a gap in his filming schedule. A-a-rgh, again. But then, do we believe The Mirror?!!!

I have only one (printable) word to say on the subject....NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! (Ann), Talk about ruining my Sunday. big ditto ;-(

Thanks for finding this, Marianne. I went to the Mirror site, and there it is! All I can say is...."Say It Isn't So! Murph

Breathe a little easier...from yesterday's Telegraph thanks to FOF Rai: ******************************** 3/19/00 - THE DAILY TELEGRAPH(LONDON) March 18, 2000, Saturday SECTION: Pg. 20 HEADLINE: News Review: Will Hugh be diary date for Bridget? Saturday Premiere BYLINE: By NIGEL REYNOLDS BEHIND the announcement that the blonde Texan Renee Zellwegger has been chosen to star as the eponymous neurotic in the forthcoming film of Bridget Jones's Diary lay the question - why hire a Yank to play Britain's most famous modern woman? The Working Title production team is hoping to redress the balance and have asked our own Hugh Grant to star alongside her, not as Mark Darcy, object of her desire throughout many diary entries, but Daniel Cleaver, her caddish boss with whom she has a fling. He's said to be "50-50" about accepting the film, which will start shooting in May. It is to be directed by Sharon Maguire, who is a friend of the author, Helen Fielding, and was the model for the character Shazza in the diaries. *************** Murph

It wasn't that long ago that all these female actors' names were being thrown into the ring for Bridget. Surely they're trying to generate the same interest now with throwing out names for Mark. Can't wait to hear who else they'll frighten us with. Thanks for printing the Telegraph article. I can live with that so I don't see Hugh being sexy enough for Daniel. (Bethan) Worst case scenario, he (CF) could play Daniel. I don't think so. I think playing the anti-Darcy would be quite clever. But I'm repeating myself. Hugh is pretty, women in the UK do not find him attractive. How about in the US? I think he'd make a nice girlfriend.

Thanks, Murph. Hughe sigh of relief.;-) I went from suicidal to calm in all of about 15 seconds. Even if CF gets Mark, Hugh's casting is still not good news for him. Guess who will get all the media attention, the interviews, the talk show appearances . . .Is it some sort of rule that HG appear in all Working Title films?;-) Someone please refresh my memory on the first book--Daniel is a much bigger part, right? (Bethan) Hugh is pretty, women in the UK do not find him attractive. How about in the US? I think he's considered as a cute kid brother type. Likable, but definitely not lust-inducing.

I have always said that HG would be Daniel! I have also said I was taking bets on CF as MD. Ladies get ready, it will happen! :-D This will make the film v. high profile. Thanks for the info! (Eileen I beat you to your crystal ball) ;-)))

I forgot to add that I do not find HG attractive at all, but hate-able enough for Daniel. Yes, Mari, Daniel has a much larger part. For CF to be in a film as Hunk Material will get him more such roles. Sweet dreams are made of this... :-)

As I told HF in the Barnes and Noble chat room:"I pray that...." And she answered; "I pray that CF plays MD"...but as we know she is out of casting. But you know HG works v. hard at publicizing his movies.I wouldn't mind if he played Daniel.This is turning into higher profile than we thought.

Have been thinking about this (far more than I should;-), and I have to wonder, what would be in it for Hugh Grant to play Daniel? Nothing! Ok, it's a larger part than Mark Darcy, but ultimately he's a jerk and he doesn't get the girl! Hugh *always* plays the good guy who gets the girl, and he's not the sort of actor who tries to play against type. He's not stupid, he knows that MD is the hero and therefore the role that people will remember. I won't rest easy until CF is confirmed as Mark. The Daniel part is another villain, it does nothing for him. It irks me to no end that Hugh can come in at the 11th hour and have his pick of the roles! (If in fact that is the case, which I pray it's not--as I said above, I've no doubt as to which part HG would prefer). I don't care if HG's presence increases the profile or not. This is a small-budget pic; it's not like they're casting Gone With The Wind, or investing tons of money and they'd need a "name" to insure their investment. Oh, I'm depressing myself . . .

Ok, have taken some positive action and am feeling slightly better. 1. Lit candle at Mass for Colin as MD, and 2. Have prayed for Divine (Brown) intervention in form of another discrediting sex scandal for HG. Where, oh where is Divine when you need her? Er, him. Er . . D'OH!;-)

It irks me to no end that Hugh can come in at the 11th hour and have his pick of the role Perhaps Working Title went to him...after all, he's their "poster boy". Every film he's done for them has been a mega-hit. Hope that candle does it, Mari...and while you're at it tell Murph to take down that BJ page...Flashman and Buttermere have evaporated.I'm getting a little queasy about wanting to manipulate fate;-).

I think Hugh might want to break the mold and play a villain for a change. And, could Elizabeth Hurley be far behind for the Rebecca part? Hugh cold take a cut of the gross and get in at a lower salary.

Have prayed for Divine (Brown) intervention LMAO!

and while you're at it tell Murph to take down that BJ page...Flashman and Buttermere have evaporated.I'm getting a little queasy about wanting to manipulate fate;-). ********** Evelyn: They are safe in my "wishbook" corner on my hard drive (Buttermere still up on the web). I am hoping that SJD does not join them -- or Armadillo! Nothing about that recently. Murph

Away all day and quite the ruckus. Am glad that those intitial dozen posts can be discarded. Casting HG as MD is about as perfect as casting Gabby Hayes for Rhett Butler...since we're in a GWTW mode. ;-) I also agree with Mari that Hugh is NOT and cannot be a Daniel. It would require acting, which is beyond his capabilities. Daniel is not a stammering bumbler and, most importantly, as Heide said, one does not LUST after Hugh. He does "feel-sorry-for. Teddy Bear-type roles." For a country that has so many good actors, is this the best they can do? Makes me ill. To quote another of Hughie's former leading ladies (but in a different movie), "Big mistake; huge." gotta go shopping

...however, if they ever filmed the second book, I'd pay to see Colin punch Hugh's lights out and toss him down the stairs. ;-)

(Murph)They are safe in my "wishbook" corner on my hard drive (Buttermere still up on the web). I am hoping that SJD does not join them -- or Armadillo Oh Murph...you are a trouper!!Mari with candles, you with BJ in the hard drive...anybody have joss sticks handy?

He does "feel-sorry-for. Teddy Bear-type roles." Huge Grunt doesn't even remind me of a teddy bear's ear and the only person he makes me feel sorry for is myself. And if there is anyone out there who thinks Huge is admirable, let her speak (sensibly and to the point) now - or forever keep her mouth shut. (Divine didn't and look what happened.)

I LOVE Hugh Grant. He is adorable. The lust factor is 100% in Four Weddings and a Funeral. Just admit it!.

LOL! I'll reserve my judgement...

The more I think about Hugh Grant being in the movie - in any role - the worse it gets. If he's in it, then the movie is labeled a Hugh Grant film; the critics will phone it in. It'll be so formulaic. They'd be better off without him. Then the movie might stand a chance of being viewed on its own merits.

(bethan)... although I know you don't have to be an ax murderer in real life to play an ax murderer, she does come over in recent interviews as very happily Smug married. Needs a bit of angst. I'm sure she was single before she was a Smug Married... But was she single long enough? (Evelyn)Sunny California vs. an Islington flat?.....Sans TV, beach front and a pool? With TV, books, a computer maybe, the British Museum and Dad's movie set? (Bethan)I've just watched "Notting Hill" (on video, of course!). Must be the last person in the world to see it. Nah! Unless I come a close second ;-) But it was most certainly the luminous Julia Roberts who made it watchable and successful....otherwise it would have just been an extended British sitcom (Most of the British actors were familiar from sitcom work.) I know most people love "Notting Hill" but I found myself sincerely hoping that BJD won't be "Notting Hill 2". In many ways, I think that Andrew Davies is a better writer than Richard Curtis...I hope his original screenplay hasn't been given too much of a face-lift. And I hope that Mark Darcy is rather sardonic and reserved (a grown-up), not a "boy in love"! I agree with you, Bethan. Julia was the best thing in the movie, and Hugh Grant completely unconvincing, while other characters were just caricatures. (MarianneC) If it comes to fisticuffs, I wonder who'll be first to step into the breech. Count me in! ;-) (Arami)And if there is anyone out there who thinks Huge is admirable, let her speak (sensibly and to the point) now - or forever keep her mouth shut. (Divine didn't and look what happened.) ROTFLMAO! (Passionata) I LOVE Hugh Grant. He is adorable. The lust factor is 100% in Four Weddings and a Funeral. Just admit it!. And *that* is about the only Hugh Grant film that counts. Period. IMHO.

Ohh, ladies, ladies. I'm glad to be reading these posts in retrospect! You have to admit, there is a certain stream of consciousness logic to the Mirror's story: Working Title begats Richard Curtis begats Hugh Grant. But it is the Mirror, and a tabloid is a tabliod is a tabloid. Ms Zellweger, who appeared in the Tom Cruise film Jerry Maguire, is best known in America as the girlfriend of comic Jim Carrey. Ouch! There sure aren't many UK members of the RZ fan club. She did more than 'appear' in JM, she was the female lead. And 'best known as the girlfriend'--what an insult. She can stand on her own two feet (but not in really high heels). US audiences will not be able to take the character in an undiluted form. *groan* Puh-leez.

Hmmm, I slept on all this, because if I'd said what I was thinking yesterday, I might have regretted it! Like Mari and Karen, I'm not exactly overjoyed at the prospect of HG's involvement, especially as I have, by some strange malignant quirk of fate, literally just watched "Notting Hill" . If he says "yes", he'll get top billing or co-starring, and it immediately becomes "From the team who gave you "Notting Hill" and "4 Weddings", HG and RZ (or vice versa) star in..., and there'll be CF tucked away neatly with the supporting cast. (and if he says "no" it's also not good PR..."HG joins the growing list of British stars who have turned down parts in BJD..) H-o-kay, now for some positive thinking (this is why I slept on it!) For better or for worse HG's involvement guarantees more publicity, and ensures a nationwide multiplex release and probably more coverage in the US. HG is not relegated to art-houses...he'a a movie star.And so all those movie going audiences who only think of CF as the cuckolded husband or the illtempered "baddie" will finally get to see him as a romantic lead ( I hope!!) Final thought, less positive. How come it's big news that HG has been offered a part in BJD and is "undecided" but absolutely there's no news about CF being offered the romantic lead role...(and one with which he's been associated for nearly 2 years). Are WT sending out offers one at a time?

(Bethan) How come it's big news that HG has been offered a part in BJD Two possibilities: (1) the item was placed by HG's publicist (remember, the Mirror blurb said that HG had thrown his hat into the ring) and (2) WT is sending his name out to see what the reaction is, i.e., testing for a response. Nobody, but nobody, with half a brain is going to object to CF playing MD. It's not the least controversial, whereas HG. Does anybody know if Divine B has a passport? ;-)

RE: Hugh Grant playing a villain, actually he did play a rather nasty character in the film "An Awfully Big Adventure". Grant also played an unsympathetic character in "Maurice".

(Karen) Does anybody know if Divine B has a passport? Let's call her and ask. *dialing* "Divine? Divine, put that banana down and pick up the phone!"

Bethan I'm proud of your postive attitude. I slept on it too..and IMO we all had illusions of BJD being a P&P deja vu "all over again.".... "BJD starring...Ms"British Newcomer" AND Colin Firth". That one would have gone to the Art House, like you said. This way...yeah he gets 3rd billing, but it does go to the cineplexes. And he does get the girl (I hope!) AND, v. important, it makes money. His last two films sadly have not. He cannot stand more films in his CV that have not succeeded. Am I the only one looking out for his career here?

Hugh would be a good Daniel Cleaver. Anyone here seen An Awfully Big Adventure? He was pretty nasty in that. When I first read the post about HG playing BJ's guy, Daniel Cleaver came to mind, because in the first book, MD and BJ AREN'T together!!!! I like Hugh Grant. He can be lovable and nasty at the same time. Cut him some slack, he'll do a great job (if he does indeed get it), and Colin Firth will play Mark Darcy. (The stars have aligned just right tonight, and my migraine has subsided). Okay, the psychic has spoken;) Please, ladies, don't panic. Colin Firth WILL play MD. I feel it in my achy bones.

I saw "An Awfully Big Adventure".

(Passionata)...Four Weddings and a Funeral ... (Gi).. and *that* is about the only Hugh Grant film that counts. Period. IMHO. I think I was the only person in the US who saw ... Ummm ...What was it called? Something like .. "The Englishman who Went up a Hill and came down a Mountain" ... (I think). Anyway, it was one of those art house jobbies, and I rather enjoyed it, I am not ashamed to admit. Speaking in Humble Opinion mode, I think, Hugh Grant can do a very creditable job, but he's always cast in these "cutsie, embarrassed Englishman" parts and little else. It makes him and his production companies lots of money, but he's had little chance to expand beyond that. IF he decides to become part of this project (and in my etc., he won't) I think it would count more on the plus side than the negative. He at least goes all out to publicise his stuff, which may very well be why he's such top box office, because he's good at that. If he did it for BJD then that many more would see it and ODB. The Public might COME for Hughie, but who makes the last impression in the plot, eh? They'd leave tingling with an eyefull of something far better!! IMHO. ;-) So by all means let HG go in as Daniel with ODB as Mark. Let HG draw the crowds. It will only help ODB in the long run, humble-opinion-wise. ;-D KJ

KJ: I saw The Englishman, etc. movie. Rather nothing IMO. And for those who saw that other HG movie, its success rather speaks directly to HG's ability to sell anything other than his customary bits. (KJ) but he's always cast in these "cutsie, embarrassed Englishman" parts Whoa! He has attempted to play outside that description and failed miserably. In fact, I remember reading last year that he had come to the realization that he shouldn't attempt that anymore. He said that he was aiming to do Cary Grant type roles.

On the Helen Fielding front, you can listen to her reading from The Edge of Reason at a NYC B&N and take questions from the audience. The audio program is about half an hour long, but you can take it in segments. Requires RealPlayer. Also, both online chat sessions are linked. http://www.barnesandnoble.com/community/ra/fielding_ra.asp?userid=2U11I1VUPM&srefer=

As I was in an information gathering mood, I rang the BJD office and asked when there would be more news about casting. Reply "Hard to say. Who knows". So there's no news. "Absolutely not" Anything confirmed? "No". When will there be confirmation as you start shooting soon?" "Yes, the beginning of May. Two or three weeks maybe". So, hold your breath..

(KJart), I think I was the only person in the US who saw ... Ummm ...What was it called? Something like .. "The Englishman who Went up a Hill and came down a Mountain" ... I saw that film. I liked it. HG in the film would be good for ODB. The exposure would be great and the Darcy attraction would be there. He will end up with many new fans, poor Livia! ;-) Thanks Bethan. The only reason I can imagine no news on casting yet is that they are trying to get stars for the ensemble cast and are negotiating a low base salary in exchange for gross profit. Actors love to be in good ensemble movies. Once again, that could only be good news for Colin.

I forgot to mention that Dave Barry's syndicated article last Sunday was called, "Men are from Mars, Hugh Grant is from Venus." Very complimentary to HG. So apart from our group there are a lot of women out there that find him attractive.

Karen, I own "An Awfully Big Adventure". Alan Rickman is in it also. It's not a bad movie, I'll send it to you. (I promise I will!) You can see how smarmy HG is. The girl in the movie is the star. She was great!

(Bethan) When will there be confirmation as you start shooting soon?" "Yes, the beginning of May. Two or three weeks maybe". I suppose it will take that long for Hughie to decide which role he wants to poach from Colin. :-( Helen's books are bestsellers here--near top of the charts. The film has a sizable built-in audience already; no need for a big marquee name to get people in to see it. It's greed! I do agree that the addition of HG would make it much bigger--but it does nothing for Colin. HG would get all the attention. Thanks for trying, Bethan. I appreciate your efforts.

I strongly disagree, Mari. A high profile movie for Colin if he plays the hunk, MD, will get him noticed. Hugh will take the Daniel role because it is the bigger role. It's greed.

Firth: I also saw The Englishman who went up a Hill and came down a Mountain, and am afraid it did not make a lasting impression (but that may be Alzheimer...) Second: if HG takes on Daniel, you can be sure Mark Darcy will be a very small part... IMHO.

I'm with Karen on the HG front. Saw The Sopran...oops, Mickey Blue Eyes a few weeks ago on PPV. Vintage Hugh--same character, different setting. He's at his best when delivering droll one-liners. (Moon) The only reason I can imagine no news on casting yet is that they are trying to get stars for the ensemble cast and are negotiating a low base salary in exchange for gross profit You think? I was always under the impression this method of payment was rare and reserved only for the biggest stars. Ben Affleck just did this for his new project and it made headlines of the 'wow, look what he was able to pull off' sort.

(Laura) I own "An Awfully Big Adventure". ..It's not a bad movie...You can see how smarmy HG is. I remember the trailers. Has to do with a director and a play, right? This was a movie that bombed. However, it really doesn't matter if Hugh can play a smarmy character. My point is that he has figured out his commercial strengths (and so has everyone else) and the character of Daniel will be changed to suit our (American's) image of him. Daniel will be the likeable dopehead who oversleeps and stammers. I'll send it to you. (I promise I will!) No need. I can always rent it if I get desperate enough. (Eileen) I was always under the impression this method of payment was rare and reserved only for the biggest stars A percentage of the gross (revenue not profit) only goes to the big boys.

KJart), I think I was the only person in the US who saw ... Ummm ...What was it called?Something like .. "The Englishman who Went up a Hill and came down a Mountain I liked it too. And Tara Fizgerald would have made a cute Bridget. ~~~~~ The film has a sizable built-in audience already; no need for a big marquee name to get people in to see it. I respectfully disagree...the people who read books don't go to the movies. They wait for the videos! It's that 17 to 30 crowd we want.

Ok already, I'm willing to give Hughie a *brief* cameo in the film.;-) Picture this original thought: Bridget is walking down the street in her Notting Hill neighborhood on her way home from a shopping excursion. Hugh's character (call him "faceless man in the crowd") is walking down a perpendicular street. At the corner, they collide and he spills orange juice all over her. He stammers (what else?) that he is dreadfully sorry and does she want to come to his flat to change her clothes. Bridge calls him a pervert and tells him to sod off. End of encounter. End of his appearance in film.;-) What, you think Richard Curtis could do better?;-)

LOL! Perfect way to fit Hugh into the film with as little damage as possible to the storyline. Suggest that Bridget walks off with Welshman in his underwear. ;-)

What, you think Richard Curtis could do better?;-) ] Nah, can't picture that scenario:) Can picture Bridget walking down street with double caf cap holding chocolate croissant in hand and spilling it all over some jerk just coming out of book store;)

Right. Don't forget that Bridget walks through all four seasons before bumping in to Hugh's character. After she tells him to sod off, she returns to her flat where Tom, a tall, scrawny gay man with Brian Glazer-like hair, answers the door in his underwear.

Suggest that Bridget walks off with Welshman in his underwear. ;-) I was thinking more of a Scot in his kilt. ;-)

The pregnant woman (during the 4 seasons sequence) to be played by Magda.

(Karen) The pregnant woman (during the 4 seasons sequence) to be played by Magda. To the tune of "Ain't no sunshine when she's . . . in the potty! I told you in the potty!"

(KJart), I think I was the only person in the US who saw ... Ummm ...What was it called? Something like .. "The Englishman who Went up a Hill and came down a Mountain" ... I saw it as well, I thought it charming, nothing great -- but gentle fun. I agree with Laura, HG was good at being smarmy and ill-tempered in "An Awfully Big Adventure".

Englishman has been roaming the cable channels for awhile. I think I saw An Awfully Big Adventure...no, wait, that was Pee Wee's Big Adventure. When were these movies made (Themoviewiththetitlethat'stoolong and AABA)? Before or after that debacle in which Hugh played a doctor?

Before. Both films were made roughly about the time of "Four Weddings and a Funeral".

All were made after 4 Weddings (1994) and before Extreme[ly Bad] Measures (1996). Am hoping to catch Lair of the White Worm one of these days. Usually plays on the Sci-Fi channel and have seen bits while surfing the channels. Is this another of those outstanding HG movies you like, Laura? ;-)

Is this another of those outstanding HG movies you like, Laura? ;-) ] Never saw it;) However, he does play Liszt or Chopin in one movie and he's quite good (Judy Davis plays George Sand) Emma Thompson is in there as well oh AND Bernadette Peters! Ah, I remember Impromptu! Julian Sands plays Liszt, HG does Chopin (George Sands boy toy), until he succumbs to TB.

(Karen) Usually plays on the Sci-Fi channel Oooh, on Mystery Science Theater 3000?

Oh rats! AABA was on Bravo twice last month. However, themoviewiththeridiculouslylongtitle is on Encore's Love Stories channel this Sunday at 8:00 pm. Good thing, I don't get that station; otherwise it'd be difficult choosing between it and the Oscar telecast. ;-)

"An Awfully Big Adventure" was actually made before "Four Weddings and a Funeral"; however, at least in the US, it was released after. It seems hard to believe, (to me anyway), that he did have a career before "Four Weddings and a Funeral", and for a bit after. He was in "Maurice", "White Mischief", "Impromptu", "Bitter Moon", and "Sirens". The last 2 were released in the same year as "Four Weddings and a Funeral". Grant was also in "Sense and Sensibilty", "The Madness of King George", and "Restoration". So his resume isn't quite putrid, and he can give a credible and cretitable performance when he chooses. It's just that paying customers seem to want to see him do that stammering, upper-class twit with the lock of hair falling in his eyes, over and over again.

True, Cheryl. Those scripts were good at least. Lucky him! However, he does play Liszt or Chopin in one movie and he's quite good (Judy Davis plays George Sand) Emma Thompson is in there as well oh AND Bernadette Peters! Ah, I remember Impromptu! Julian Sands plays Liszt, HG does Chopin (George Sands boy toy), until he succumbs to TB. Was he Chopin??? I loved that movie and have been thinking of renting it again. You Liszt and Lake Como...I recommend renting it.

he does play Liszt or Chopin in one movie and he's quite good Is he, really? I've never heard of this film - and am completely baffled how I could miss it, considering the subject. Does anyone know, has it been shown in the UK at all? Chopin (George Sands boy toy) Is that what Chopin is famous for? Well, well... ;-P

(Arami) Is that what Chopin is famous for? Well, well... ;-P There's some lovely music in the film as well ;-). I had forgotten that HG starred in this. I quite enjoyed it. I'm not sure if it played in the UK or not, but if it's available for rent it's worth a look. (Karen) Oh rats! AABA was on Bravo twice last month. Coincidentally, I actually happened to watch this last month. I thought the acting was very good all the way around including HG in a type of role he doesn't often play. I liked the movie but didn't love it. It was too full of unlikable characters that were hard to warm up to IMHO. I thought the young heroine definitely worthy of sympathy, but her situation was so poignantly sad I had trouble enjoying watching it. Sorry this isn't very BJD related unless HG in fact joins the cast!

(Karen) ...speaks directly to HG's ability to sell anything... IF HG joins the cast, he can at the least donate this. Can you picture ODB eager, (or even comfortable) with the scenario of trading bon mots and off-color jokes with the David Letterman types? Whereas HG is highly proficient at it and seems to enjoy doing that sort of thing.

I know, I know, enough, already. But... Did a little research. TEWWUAHACDAM and AADA were both made (1995) just after Four Weddings (1994). And HG was born September 9, 1960. Eerie.

He had one line at the beginning of White Mischief and then was never seen again. Strange, I used think this was a good movie and then watched it again a few months ago. I've always thought he and Emma were miscast in S&S. Loved Rickman, Winslet and Wise though. ;-)

And HG was born September 9, 1960. Eerie. Yes, they are practically twins. HG as Daniel would be a great idea IMO. The fact that they are so close in age and yet in real life, lead apparently such different lives have such different attitudes to fame, would make a really interesting angle for publicists. Art mirroring life and all that. But (BIG but) HG might not find the comparison flattering and CF would not push himself sufficiently to grab his share of the headlines. He might also think such comparisons were tempting fate....!

An Awfully Big Adventure is a Beryl Bainbridge story. It's quite good. Alan Rickman is wonderful. Oh and the actress, what is her name, Georgina Cates (she's married to Skeet Ulrich), is a find!!! (she's coming up the ranks in America, albeit slowly.) Hugh Grant was BRILLIANT in Maurice!!! (as some of you know, MY FAVE MOVIE!!!!), James Wilby who played Maurice would be a good Daniel too. He can play smarmy (think Howard's End!). I don't always see HG playing the Cary Grant-type. In Maurice, he was very relaxed as Clive Durham, not one flutter of the eyelids! I can see great potential for HG as Daniel Cleaver. CF is a definite must for Mark Darcy, the part was written JUST FOR HIM. He'd be a fool to pass it up, even if it is a small role. Okay, just my two cents worth;)

(Laura) James Wilby who played Maurice would be a good Daniel too. He can play smarmy (think Howard's End!). Think Dutch Girls!! (Also, the new movie Cotton Mary - at least from what's shown in the trailers) I don't always see HG playing the Cary Grant-type. This was a recent career revelation that came out in the press during Notting Hill. It's not always the suave, debonair Englishman, but also the screwball comedies.

(Karen) Think Dutch Girls!! I always forget that one! Haven't seen trailers for Cotton Mary. For some reason, I just pictured Daniel as blonde. Hmmm...

(KJArt) Did a little research. TEWWUAHACDAM and AADA were both made (1995) just after Four Weddings (1994). As William Burroughs noted, "Language is a virus," that and my propensity for stating things as clearly as mud. What I meant to say is that "An Awfully Big Adventure" was released in 1995, the year after "Four Weddings and a Funeral", but it was shot before "Four Weddings..." -- that's what my research indicated. Shot first, released after, which is not uncommon for movies. Example: MLSF which was made before SIL, but was released later. Submitted for your approval: Why not Greg Wise as Daniel?

Why not Greg Wise as Daniel? ] Good question, why not?

Dark hair. IMO Daniel needs to contrast with the dark-haired Mark Darcy.

They could always lighten his hair (a novel thought, indeed). Sam West would be a good Daniel. He's cute, can be likable and hateable at the same time (think Persuasion;)) hee hee;)

Submitted for your approval: Why not Greg Wise as Daniel? Argghhhh! Sorry but he is the most wooden actor I know. Okay, Hugh Grant is not a thespian great but he does have charm of a sort but Greg Wise really cannot act. Have seen him live on the stage and he just has no life in him. Sorry - IMNSHO.

I am glad you said what I was thinking Allison, HG is the lesser of the two evils. (OT GW is to be seen in the forthcoming Madame Bovery, which I think k has already been shown on US TV, anyone see it).I also didn't like him in S&S., in fact I didn't particulary like S&S, none of the characters were as appealing, sympathetic or endearing as those in P&P, one really felt you knew the Bennets, the Darcy's etc and they seemed so real unlike the characters in S&S, who I really couldn't care less about. (I seem to have digressed, sorry).

I would prefer HG to GW too. Daniel should be blond and GW with blond hair does not cut it. The S&S casting I thought was good except for HG and ET as well. You just did not care for those two characters. A very sexual Mme Bovary was shown here. The casting was alright, the script was the problem.

(Ann) GW is to beseen in the forthcoming Madame Bovary, which I think k has already been shown on US TV,anyone see it). I did....Pretty sexy stuff.GW was v. good in part of Rodolphe. Though one wondered why she would leave Hugh Bonneville for GW. (Moon)A very sexual Mme Bovary was shown here. The casting was alright, the script was the problem. Pathetic.Poor Flaubert must have been rolling in his grave.

All they have to do is get someone (if not CF) who can out act out shine Hugh Grant 10 fold. Someone like Daniel Day Lewis, RFinnes,Tom Hanks ect. You get the the idea right? He would who be demolished. LOL Donna who is really sick of Hugh Grant PS Four Wedding's is the only good picture he has made.IMHO

Correction: He would be demolshed. Donna

Correction: He would be demolished. Donna

(Donna)All they have to do is get someone (if not CF) who can out act out shine Hugh Grant 10 fold. Someone like Daniel Day Lewis, RFinnes,Tom Hanks ect. I don't even want to consider this :-(

You might have too. Of course CF would be the best. Donna

You know how many actors shy away from roles too closely associated with others? Even though Colin has not played the role, everyone knows it was inspired by his portrayal of Mr. Darcy. It's sort of like undertaking to be Rhett Butler in a sequel. Most wouldn't want the inevitable comparisons in the press. I wonder if this will work in Colin's favor. ;-)

It's rather unfortunate that I've just seen "Notting Hill" for the first time...my images of BJD keep merging with those of NH. I can imagine a scene where Hugh Grant, playing Hugh Grant/Will Thacker/Mark Darcy/you name it, bumps into cappucino carrying BJ, after having attention diverted by glimpse of the lovely Rebecca played by Julia Roberts look-a-like. Suffering from the pangs of disappointed love, BJ rushes for solace to trendy non-profit making bookshop where she encounters Colin Firth (playing Colin Firth, but with stuck-on moustache to provide "unattractive" foil to gorgeous Hughie). CF is stuffing book down front of trousers. BJ is consumed with lust. Brief sexually explicit cameo follows, featuring stand-up shag (background music as in TEP). Fleeting glimpse of naked buttocks earns movie an 18 rating and huge publicity, vastly boosting popularity with 16 year olds. CF is never seen again in movie. Name appears as Rupert Everett in credits. You never know...!!

Here it is; thanks to Anne R. for spotting: Hugh joins Bridget's singletons on screen Film Unlimited Vanessa Thorpe, Arts Correspondent Sunday March 26, 2000 Hugh Grant is to spend his summer filming in Notting Hill - again. And it is all due to the film project that is closest to the heart of many a single woman. Bridget Jones' Diary, based on the bestselling novel by Helen Fielding, is due to begin filming in London this summer and this weekend casting directors are finalising deals with its two leading male stars. The film is being made by the team behind two of Britain's biggest cinematic hits, Notting Hill and Four Weddings and a Funeral. It was confirmed last month that the Texan actress Renee Zellweger, star of Jerry Maguire, would play the role of Bridget, but until now question marks have hung over the romantic interest: who will play Daniel Cleaver, the cad, and Mark Darcy, the brooding and proud hero of the diaries? This week the film's producers are expected to announce that Grant will take the part of the sexually persuasive, yet emotionally unsatisfactory, Daniel. The actor worked with Jones co-screenwriter, Richard Curtis, on both Notting Hill and Four Weddings and a Funeral. The part of Darcy has gone to the man who was in Fielding's mind when she first created her hero. Colin Firth, who played Darcy in the BBC adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, is to play the role in a pay-off to Fielding's in-joke. The film will be shot around Notting Hill and is not to be Americanised in any way, according to producers Working Title. The loss of Jones's trademark phraseology, for instance, 'fuckwittage' and 'v.g', would have dulled her distinctive voice.

The part of Darcy has gone to the man who was in Fielding's mind when she first created her hero. Colin Firth, who played Darcy in the BBC adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, is to play the role in a pay-off to Fielding's in-joke. E-e-e-k....right at the end. I was almost having heart failure. I thought HG was playing the lead. Although it seems that he is. But, deep breath, must be thankful for small mercies...CF is playing MD. But he deserves an award for "the guy who has his thunder stolen most times"!! Thanks Anne R!

It's very good news!!

Wonderful news, thanks Anne & Mari but I shall still keep everything crossed until it is confirmed by Working Titles!!!

Oh My God, I almost can�t believe it. Hope this news is accurate?!?!

Dateline: Roughly the end of April ;-) Hooray!! A shame the article focused on HG, but at least it's implied that Colin is one of "its two leading male stars." Sounds very equal. Thanks Anne and Mari for posting. :-)

Finally! The moment we have been waiting for! Thank you, Mari! I will be in London in July!!! Allison, Ann, Tracy, Jana, how about lunch or tea in Notting Hill?

Exciting news. Just to see his name in print is exciting. I'm keeping my fingers you're not disappointed but this finally looks promising. (Karen) I wonder if this will work in Colin's favor. ;-) I've been saying this for months; no, at this point it's years. But of course I hope I'm wrong. ;-)