Well hello, Ms.Ehle. *&%$&$(% V(U****!!!. BLOODY HELL. I am dumbstruck. It is almost too much not to grab and kiss the screen. However, if it were real life....sadly I can see myself meeting her at a party and asking her something incredibly stupid, like "So tell me: what d'you do?", or "Gosh. It's very crowded, isn't it? Would you like some apple juice? I've got an extra sausage roll here if you want one. I live in America.". Still - since on this webpage she's frozen in anticipation of my next word, I h ve time to work out something worthy. I hope that rather delicate strap on her dress lasts long enough. Looks as though it would snap with the gentlest bite. :-)

why are some of you doubting Ben's truthfulness? I didn't hear anyone doubting Ben.....everyone enjoyed the joke tremendously. and moreover thanked him profusely. Thank you Myretta for Jennifer's picture. Empire Magazine(UK) November 97 And Ben....in person she would put you at ease...v. easy to talk to. Intensely interested in what you are saying. (know the type?) Watch that strap!!:-)

Ben, wow.... now, that's what I call drooling! And, you know, the art used to be practised here at the slightest mention of Colin's name...

Cowabunga. Thank you, Myretta. Ms Ehle is now the background on my computer screen, and her luscious eyes will greet me every morning. Talk about limpid pools. And I thank you, Arami, for your compliments about my drooling. However, I must not forget that this is really a site about CF, and that I'm sure I have a lot to learn in the art. So, no more about the divine JE, at least not until I've spent mamy more hours at the feet of the expert droolers.:-). Can someone tell me what theatrical work CF has done? Has he ever acted with the National or the RSC? Has this Ian McK question been resolved?

Can someone tell me what theatrical work CF has done? Ben, could it be you haven't yet explored our very own tribute to the man at http://www.colinfirth.com ??? Admittedly it is still in (alas, slow) development, but do make haste thither: among the links there you will see Chris's Firth On Stage page, 6th link down in the left hand column. Other pages are also warmly recommended. Here and there Colin may be seen accompanied by Ms Ehle... so it may be worth it! ;-)

Can someone tell me what theatrical work CF has done? Ben, could it be you haven't yet explored our very own tribute to the man at http://www.colinfirth.com ??? Admittedly it is still in (alas, slow) development, but do make haste thither: among the links there you will see Chris's Firth On Stage page, 6th link down in the right hand column. Other pages are also warmly recommended. Here and there Colin may be seen accompanied by Ms Ehle... so it may be worth it! ;-)

Sorry - it's that computer again! I was convinced the first transmission was halted in time - but there you are. Anyway, the second message is the correct one (I think...)

Here's a link to Ellen's Firth FAQ about the theatre work with links to further info

Oooops. Well, great minds think alike... :-)

No ooops at all, Renate - the more the merrier, and I'm sure Ben will enjoy studying the life and times of our favourite actor (who used to be his favourite actress's favourite... ahem, actor, too). Ben, we shall test your knowledge later... (or is it patience...? Hmmm ;-))

More news from the Daily Mail. Judy Dench is about to Concorde to US for promotion of SIL. Harvey Weinstein is telling all and sundry that he thinks she will get a nominatian as best supporting actress even though she is in only three scenes. What about our DB???

I have been wiling away some time perusing these Firth sites. Amazing devotion. There's a quote from The Firth about how he couldn't understand the Darcy effect - "I've never tried so hard not to be sexy", or something (a remark he later said he regretted). Yes. Sure. I understand, Colin. Try as I might, I cannot help being irresistable. I was also reminded that I saw CF in a film earlier this year. In NY cinemas, one is quite often offered tickets for previews - showings to test audience reaction - and I saw this Hugh Hudson film set in Scotland with CF as an eccentric father who lusts after someone other than his wife. On the website it says the film was called Field of Moss, but I'm sure it was NOT called that when I went to see it. Instead, the title had something to do with curling, like "The Grand ...something-or-other (can't rememb r what, needless to say). The Great Game? The Grand Game? Something like that. I wasn't over-impressed by it, I have to say. Slightly contrived. (No doubt the film would be redeemed for you gels by the sight of CF in a kilt.)

HEE HEE YOU SAW THE MOVIE THAT EVERYONE HERE IS DYING TO SEE! Lucky you! So he's in a kilt, eh? Wonder what he had on under it. Not that it matters at all;-)

I didn't think it was THAT great, frankly. It just didn't flow. Some nice moments, but for me it didn't work. It ends up with a curling match that's meant to be of great significance, but.... It was nowhere near finished - no titles, basically unedited, so maybe it's improved in its final cut. And I did have a nice time looking at beautiful shots of the Highlands. No doubt there will be other things in the landscape that attract your admiration. :-)

Gasp! Dear me! Just think! Spasms and flutters all over me! Ben, you dropped this little bomb so casually. You saw - *just so* - a film battalions of women would shave their eyebrows for to get a glimpse! Was the title of that film "The Roaring Game"? Originally it was "World of Moss", and now it is "My Life So Far", but I've heard about the above title, too. What a pity you cannot give a more enthusiastic report - but perhaps that may explain why we still have to wait for it to start, though shooting was finished September - last year, that is! And in a kilt? No kidding? :-p.....

Yes! That's it - the Roaring Game. It referred to some curling competition. I saw it in February, or some time around then. It's episodic - which is fine if there is a strong and plausible enough story at the centre to carry the other bits along. But the main story just didn't grab me. Malcom McDowell is good, and Mary Mastro-thingumajig does a surprisingly good Scots accent. But beyond that...I can't even tell you CF is kilted in every scene, because he's not.

Oh, dear... here we go... And David Puttnam has referred to it as a "delightful" film... so sad to think it obviously hasn't got the capacity to delight everyone... OR ARE YOU EXCEPTIONALLY FUSSY, BEN???

OR ARE YOU EXCEPTIONALLY FUSSY, BEN??? ] I think it might have something to do with his being a MALE and probably doesn't give to hoots about Colin Firth, now had Jennifer Ehle been in it wearing only Victoria Secrets, then we'd get more information:)

Yes! That's it - the Roaring Game. It referred to some curling competition. I saw it in February, or some time around then. It's episodic - which is fine if there is a strong and plausible enough story at the centre to carry the other bits along. But the main story just didn't grab me. Malcom McDowell is good, and Mary Mastro-thingumajig does a surprisingly good Scots accent. But beyond that...I can't even tell you CF is kilted in every scene, because he's not.

Weird. My message appeared twice, even though I wasn't here the second time round. Well, call me fussy, but I'm afraid I demand a little more than a fleeting glimpse of a side of beef with a skirt on. I care about dialogue, characterisation, cinematography. Stuff like that. (Somehow all these things tend miraculously to fall into place when Ms.Ehle is on screen. Something to do with the way she affects everyone else on the project, I suppose.)

Ben, if you saw it in February, it must have been the "rough cut". I think it had a second preview in June/July, with presumably some major editing/re-editing in between. It didn't have a further preview so must have passed muster. The movie is based on an autobiography by Denis Forman and is supposed to be a rites of passage movie, about a young boy growing up in an eccentric family, which means that it is intrinsically episodic. The curling game (I think!) was supposed to represent the one time when "th usual authorities disappeared and the gentleman's writ no longer ran"...the sort of society which the young boy preferred. Well, call me fussy, but I'm afraid I demand a little more than a fleeting glimpse of a side of beef with a skirt on. I care about dialogue, characterisation, cinematography. Stuff like that. So do we all! So do, presumably, CF, David Puttnam and Hugh Hudson, Miramax, Harvey Weinstein and the UK Arts Council!! Ben, you give favourable mention to Malcolm McDowell and Mary Mastro...(?), but nothing specific about CF, other than the skirt! His performance didn't exactly grab you then? And what about the beautiful Irene Jacob? And Jennifer's mum? Scottish accents throughout? I realise that February is fairly dim and distant now for total recall!

Sorry Bethan. I wasn't being TOO serious about my film standards - as usual, it was a knee-jerk facetious response. However, I do say that I didn't ADORE the film, at the stage at which I saw it, at least. I've nothing against episodic films in principle. Two of my favourite films - La gloire de mon pere and Le chateau de ma mere - meander like anything, but they have sufficient charm and naturalness to pull it off. The same goes for the John Boorman film about his wartime childhood (what was it called? w nderful film). This didn't, at least not its rough cut. CF was fine, but he plays someone to whom one's reaction is necessarily mixed. I'll leave it at that, but I think it's a hard part to play. (Irene Jacob plays a frenchwoman, BTW - M.McD's wife.)

(Ben) I didn't think it was THAT great, frankly. It just didn't flow. Some nice moments, but for me it didn't work. Not surprising, given the material the movie was based on. One of the books, Son of Adam was a real snooze. Makes one wonder why Forman could get that book and his follow-up published. Friends in the right places, no doubt. It ends up with a curling match that's meant to be of great significance, but... The description of the curling in the book takes up about half a page. Although it might stand for his entire family, Forman (the kid in the movie) was more shaped by the family's emphasis on music. No doubt there will be other things in the landscape that attract your admiration. :-) We are counting on that!! Still can't forgive them for not incorporating the skinny dip in the pond that is described in the book. :( (Renate) You saw - *just so* - a film battalions of women would shave their eyebrows for to get a glimpse! LOL!! Do you know how difficult it is to grow back eyebrows? And in a kilt? No kidding? :-p..... Which do you suppose is better? A kilt or tights? (Ben) Well, call me fussy, but I'm afraid I demand a little more than a fleeting glimpse of a side of beef with a skirt on. Do your same standards apply to a side of beefette? ;-) (Somehow all these things tend miraculously to fall into place when Ms.Ehle is on screen. Something to do with the way she affects everyone else on the project, I suppose.) Smitten, definitely!! (Bethan) The curling game (I think!) was supposed to represent the one time when "the usual authorities disappeared and the gentleman's writ no longer ran"...the sort of society which the young boy preferred. Not familiar with that term, "the gentleman's writ." Can you explain, Bethan? Are you saying that Forman longed for the old, genteel country gentleman lifestyle of his parents/grandparents? In the book, he rejected their religious foundations and outlook. (Ben) CF was fine, but he plays someone to whom one's reaction is necessarily mixed. Why? Because he is contemplating an affair with Irene Jacobs or because of how he raises his children? Or something else? Because he's an eccentric? Although I have no problem with characters who are in that gray area.

Ben, you have certainly earned your keep here!! My God, you all are discussing this so casually! I'm sitting here palms asweat because someone has seen this movie! We have been holding our fingers tightly together for so long hoping it will be shown ever that I need a crowbar to pry them apart and you have seen this #@*$# movie! You can't leave it at this. I'm afraid we're going to have to open your memory cells again. Ladies, will we offend too many people if we ask for the spoilers now? Keeping in mind it has been reworked since Ben saw it.

Flippin' 'eck. I'm perpetually surprised by the heat of desire on this website. (I can feel my fingers burning.) Therefore, I always under-estimate the value of little Firth vignettes (call them Firthettes - or maybe that's you lot?). I'm v. sorry. I really would have paid greater attention to the movie if I'd known. I feel like someone who's walked away from something of great value, without realising its worth. ("You mean they're worth something? All those blocks of shiny yellow metal I threw away? Oh. hoops.") I went to the film on a date. So there is, in this case too, someone else to consult. However, this time it's EVEN STRANGER than asking mother, because I haven't seen her (la date) since. So it can't be pushed, I'm afraid.

Two of my favourite films - La gloire de mon pere and Le chateau de ma mere - meander like anything... (Ben) Two of my favourites too, and I must admit I was hoping for something like this! But there can be quite a difference between the rough cut and the final edit, especially if (and I presome this is the point of previews in the US) critical comments are taken on board. One of the books, Son of Adam was a real snooze. (Karen) Again, beg to differ! I liked it! Are you saying that Forman longed for the old, genteel country gentleman lifestyle of his parents/grandparents? (Karen) No, sorry I wasn't clear. Quite the opposite. The curling match, where the gentlemen were outnumbered and outclassed in terms of natural skills, was much more to the boy's liking than the stratified privileged society in which he moved. I presume the curling match (in the film) is symbolic of the world as he wants it to be (and as it will be). Which do you suppose is better? A kilt or tights? (Karen) Hmmmm!!!! "Better" in which sense?

Flippin' 'eck. I'm perpetually surprised by the heat of desire on this website. (I can feel my fingers burning.) Therefore, I always under-estimate the value of little Firth vignettes (call them Firthettes - or maybe that's you lot?). I'm v. sorry. I really would have paid greater attention to the movie if I'd known. I feel like someone who's walked away from something of great value, without realising its worth. ("You mean they're worth something? All those blocks of shiny yellow metal I threw away? Oh. hoops.") I went to the film on a date. So there is, in this case too, someone else to consult. However, this time it's EVEN STRANGER than asking mother, because I haven't seen her (la date) since. So it can't be pushed, I'm afraid.

I went to the film on a date. Ah, it's all clear now. You were not concentrating... ;-)

Kilt v tights I've reflected on this weighty matter. Bearing in mind what they say about Scotsmen, and, of course, the blustery climate in the highlands, I'm opting for kilts! "Men in skirts"...now there's a good title!

(Ben) Somehow all these things tend miraculously to fall into place when Ms.Ehle is on screen. Something to do with the way she affects everyone else on the project, I suppose. Interesting you should say that. One critic commented that Ms. Ehle brought out the best in her leading men. I will go to see My Life so Far to see CF and the cinematography....the story is a snoozer, for sure. Sorry Bethan. And I even read "To Reason Why"...worse!The only humorous part I remember is that Denis Forman was known at Cambridge as "Forskin".But maybe they went through rewrites after Ben saw it. And changed the story.

OK. The December Permiere Magazine (US) arrived today. The barrage of publicity for Shakespeare in Love (SIL) has started. At the beginning there is a two-page spread advert. CF has fourth billing after Geo. Rush.Go to the Miramax website: www.miramax.com. They are promoting a SIL sweepstake for a trip to Shakespeare's England. Mail a postcard with your name,address and tel to SIL Sweepstakes PO 6047, Sherman Oaks, Ca. 91413 or enter at the website. If you are a Premiere subscriber and live in some selected cities you may receive tickets for an exclusive screening of SIL. Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, LA, NY, Miami, Wash.DC, SF (Didn't hit Okla. City:-( ) Read the Miramax Book. And Soundtrack available. In the Holiday Movie Mania segment of the issue there is a page write-up . Not one mention of CF. They quote Gwyneth "I've never worked so hard", says Paltrow of the demanding period piece. "I thought I was going to go into a coma". Harvey Weinstein wanted an American actor to play Shakespeare,but GP said; "And we were like, 'Come on Harvey, . You can't have an American guy play Shakespeare '".Lots about Joe Fiennes and even a line about Rupert Everett whom I can't even find in the advert credits.!!

I saw the SIL preview last night!!! We get three small glimpses of our DB. My husband was v. quick to point out that he has grown fat and he is a cockhold once again (he is not over my CF devotion). Now, I must admit he does look like he has put on some weight, it may be due to the enormous amount of clothes he wears, three glimpses were not enough to judge! BTW, I went to my local Cinemateque to see La Vita e Bella which I highly recommend. SIL will be starting there for Christmas. The cinemateque is v. small and now I'm wondering what kind of release Miramar is planning. Colin does get fourth billing even in the preview.

(Evelyn) The barrage of publicity for Shakespeare in Love (SIL) has started. At the beginning there is a two-page spread advert. No pictures? bummer (Moon) My husband was v. quick to point out that he has grown fat and he is a cockhold once again IMO must be the clothing. Lots of it. Moon, please correct your husband on this cuckhold thing. They weren't married. She was just playing around. ;-) Must nip these comments in the bud. Need to go check the Miramax Cafe... (he is not over my CF devotion). Now, I must admit he does look like he has put on some weight, it may be due to the enormous amount of clothes he wears, three glimpses were not enough to judge!

CF isn't exactly what I would call buffed. He does as someone in chat pointed out hysterically last night, have bit of a belly:) changing topics, just saw the VH1 special on the BIG CHILL. They interviewed Meg Tilly (MT) and can I honestly say that I don't think she has a clue? even the interviewer had no clue what she was saying. She did mention that she enjoys prose and probably will not go back to acting, because she likes being with her children.

Fat.... beer belly Oh dear, give the poor man a break! No wonder he says he doesn't want to be a sex symbol and completely shuns the limelight or indeed any form of publicity. I can recall some unkind references to him in TEP as the "fat husband"...which he wasn't! His problem (if problem it is!)is that unlike many actors he is rather broadshouldered (witness the dinner jacketed scene in TEP when he looks almost twice as wide as RF et al). Put those shoulders in a flying suit or the lipped shouldered thick-materialed waistc ats of the Elizabethan era (plus cape, and those wide bloomers) and the result could be "unflattering" (and there's that villainous goatee beard!). I also get the feeling that we are not supposed to sympathise with Wessex, and CF will play the part accordingly, to give credibility to the young lovers. He's an actor not a matinee idol! And it's often the jobbing actors who have the longest careers.

Laura: just saw the VH1 special on the BIG CHILL. They interviewed Meg Tilly (MT) and can I honestly say that I don't think she has a clue? even the interviewer had no clue what she was saying. I saw that too! I had never seen her interviewed before, but it's so strange how much she resembles her sister (Jennifer Tilly) in terms of speech. Not as high pitched of a voice, but getting there... I also had a feeling MT did not have a clue. I never noticed it before, either, but Meg had a mole! As soon as I spotted it, i was instantly ROTFLOL! Fat.... beer belly I noticed it too. But Marlon Brando he is not... So I don't mind. He appears "comfortably husky."

Moon, did you say you saw the SIL preview in the theatre? Prior to La Vita e Bella? I'd agree he looks heavier at least on the preview I saw on ET. But I know what I'd look like with a high ruffley collar that stands out like a platter - my face would be Charlie Brown size. I wish I could see this beer belly. I've never seen him look anything but skinny when he is not wearing a lot of clothes. Not that it matters. ;-) Okay, Ben. Do you remember a scene in The Roaring Game (MLSF) where Colin jumps into a loch? Does he ever actually bed Irene Jacob? (I doubt it but I'd like to know how far it goes.) I understand you were distracted and it was a long time ago and the movie didn't exactly impress you, but please try, dear boy.

(Heide), Moon, did you say you saw the SIL preview in the theatre? Prior to La Vita e Bella? Yes, at a v. small cinemateque and SIL will be there for Xmas. La Vita e Bella will probably win best foreign film at the Oscars and has had a v. limited release from Miramar, I wonder why? I agree with everyone's comments about the amount of clothing he wears, but, his face was a lot fuller too. But do not fear, my devotion is unchanged, no matter how hard my husband tries. Robert De Niro once gained 40 lbs for a Scorsese film and they came off quickly enough!

Hi. Heide, I think there was a scene with people skinny-dipping in the Loch, but...my memory is that only the boys were swimming. I may be mistaken. (Perhpas they only wanted to have thin people in the nude....;~)). And I think he does get off with Irene Jacob. In the woodshed. One of the reasons I didn't buy the story, as I remember, was that she didn't seem much to like him in the film (he had become obsessed with her), and yet they got off with each other. I would just like to add, on a completely unrelated note, that in ferreting around the Miramax website someone referred us to, I discovered that another fave of mine is now taken. The woman in Ballykissangel (Dervla Kirwen, or something - simply ravishing) has gone and married the bloke who played the priest (Stephen Whatsisname). Would you believe it.

A new old addition to the archives

I downloaded a movie trailer from the Miramax cafe and it had quite a bit of CF in it. But he was definitely being tormented or ridiculed by Queen Elizabeth. He laughs, sways, and is mortified that his "Wife" is at the center of a wager. He looks somewhat evil.

(Ben) And I think he does get off with Irene Jacob. In the woodshed. Now that would jazz-up the story (MLSF). In the book this liaison does not occur. And Bethan, CF is a great actor, but he definitely IMO is also a great"matinee idol". Why else the Darcymania after P&P? Didn't happen after David Rintoul in P&P 1. And who cares about the weight...beer belly, pasta pouch...the guy has the best looking thighs on earth!

Renate, thanks so much for sharing this with us. He could pass for 16. The article is interesting too though I have to make judgments about what he actually said and what the writer said for him. "I find the thought of journalists quizzing me quite frightening,"� says the burly six-footer... Burly? Oh no, not this again. He may go up and down now but he was a beanpole 12 years ago. He doesn't want to be rich and famous. "It's vulgar to be rich, don't you think?" he says over dinner at a splendacious Buckinghamshire riverside retreat (admittedly not his choice of venue)... "..I always think it's a shame if something I really admired gets the Oscar treatment. You suddenly see all these actors who have given wonderful performances dressed up in horrible clothes, behaving like idiots." I cringe at stuff I said 12 years ago too. The poor chap - normally a jeans and T-shirt man - is decked out in borrowed clothes to fit the restaurant's jacket and tie regulations. This is kind of cute. All in all, delightful. (Moon) But do not fear, my devotion is unchanged, no matter how hard my husband tries. Don't worry, I never doubted you. I'm sure your husband is a sweetheart but jealousy can be an ugly thing to even the best. ;-) (Ben) my memory is that only the boys were swimming. I may be mistaken. (Perhpas they only wanted to have thin people in the nude....;~)). Ah, that explains why they put Colin in a bathing suit. Just kidding, just kidding, since we're all in such good humor about this subject. (Evelyn) And who cares about the weight...beer belly, pasta pouch...the guy has the best looking thighs on earth! Bar none, baby. (Laura) (SIL) He looks somewhat evil. Oh dear, he cheats on his wife in My Life So Far, we know he's a villain in Shakespeare in Love. He was a charmer but a cad in 1000 Acres and he pretty much ends up killing Almasy and Katherine in The English Patient. He wasn't too great in Nostromo either! Oh no, where is this going? The next Bond villain? The life of Pinochet? The Marquis de Sade? Before I scrap everything I've just written, let me just say I'm kidding. But I do hope his character isn't written as a cartoon villain in SIL. He's never been to a premiere and hopes he never will. "I find those occasions silly. People indulging in congratulating each other is so phoney and embarrassing. I always think it's a shame if something I really admired gets the Oscar treatment. You suddenly see all these actors who have given wonderful performances dressed up in horrible clothes, behaving like idiots."�

Moon. Your poor husband. Give me his email address, and I will redress things by sending him a photograph of La Deesse Ehle. :-).

My husband is really the best man I have ever known, and, if you could meet him, you would all be charmed. An Italian aristocrat and an intellectual, he would not think twice to challenge CF to a duel. He is very much like the Jean Giono character Angelo in the Horseman on the Roof (always the cavaliere). But my CF admiration can�t be helped and I thank you all for being here and understanding. A big smooch to you all!

One of the reasons I didn't buy the story, as I remember, was that she didn't seem much to like him in the film (he had become obsessed with her), and yet they got off with each other. (Ben) Remember Beatrice and Benedick? Sexual attraction is often masked by hostility, especially if there are moral reasons for suppressing the attraction! So. if a woman slaps you, she may like you, but if she's all chummy and treats you like her long-lost brother, well...!!! And I think he does get off with Irene Jacob. In the woodshed. In a kilt? He looks somewhat evil. Wot, no dimples! But Viola cheats on him, and Will is a married adulterer, so maybe he's a really nice guy who's just having a bad day. :-) I discovered that another fave of mine is now taken. The woman in Ballykissangel.. (Ben) And there's me thinking you're a one gal guy! Tut! This is kind of cute. All in all, delightful. (Heide) Agreed. And he seems quite genuinely to have no interest in fame (or love scenes and wimpy lovers - "Who wants to watch sex anyway?)!

(Heide)But I do hope his character isn't written as a cartoon villain in SIL. I have the same fear, Heide. The more trailers I see, and write-ups I read. Thank you Renate, for the article. I doubt he's that cynical now. He was 25 then....now 38.

The woman in Ballykissangel (Dervla Kirwen, or something - simply ravishing) has gone and married the bloke who played the priest (Stephen Whatsisname). Stephen Tompkinson. Would you believe he once was in a play with Colin, too (Rattigan's The Deep Blue Sea, adapted for BBC TV). All roads lead to Rome...? ;-)

But he looks good, in the movie Trailer. You should download it. It's called Wager!

Renata, I enjoyed reading that old interview too and since consistency is for small minds, Colin has probably changed some of his opinions. It is a shame that he does not like to give interviews because we are all so anxious for them! Laura, I downloaded the Wager clip. None of the clips available for downloading from Miramax are used in the SIL preview I saw at the theatre. Colin seems to be always picked on and quite vexed as well, I miss his smile. Why can�t he be offered a role where he gets to be the hero?

but he laughs albeit, fraudulently:)

(Heide)But I do hope his character isn't written as a cartoon villain in SIL. I have the same fear, Heide. The more trailers I see, and write-ups I read. I hope there are some subtleties (why is Wessex just quietly watching the performance of Romeo and Juliet at the end instead of storming the stage and claiming his wife) but I'm not holding my breath. There's a US daily press review site on the Net and I've seen a couple of references to SIL, both favourable, but zilch comments about CF. SIL (rough quote)"combines hot young stars GP, BA and JF with the acting talent of Judi Dench. Rupert Everett and Geoffrey Rush".."steamy sex scenes (GP/JF) and comedy". SNIFF!!! I guess CF isn't sufficiently wellknown in the US to warrant comment (although he is high in the billing, correct?). Shades of TEP! OH well, I hope it's like "Rob Roy" where the evil Tim Roth and John Hurt were the beat things in it, and I fast forwarded thru the love scenes (ditto Robin Hood Prince of Thieves!) Moon, I'd really like to see him play a hero, but, regretfully these kind of roles rarely go to Englishmen! I had hopes for the anguished and very English Sydney Carton, but the part went to Mel Gibson. The closest to a hero may be MarK Darcy (well he does take time off work to save Bridget's mum!) and of course, my favourite, the Earl of Bothwell (casting directors, are you listening, NOT Mel G.!)

When did Mel Gibson, of all people, get to play Sidney Carton? I've always thought this would be a fantastic role and, I must say, I think CF would do it wonderfully. We already know he can play a complicated man, whose heart, though buried deeply, is good beyond measure. What a wonderful part Carton could be. What was the film? What was the script like? BTW, I never know how to react to the laughable stereotypes of the English in Hollywood films. They are usually gay, usually evil, and often both. (And the former trait is often portrayed homophobically, as though it's part of their evil.) On the other hand, they are redeemed by being clever. On the whole, I think, I am flattered and surprised that people from a wet little island in Northern Europe are worth stereotyping at all - the worst reaction would be indifference. Payment for stepping outside subject area: I hope the Roaring Game sticks with its wonderful opening shot, which mirrors that, funnily enough, in TEP (see - I'm learning). A biplane wings its way across a grand landscape - only this time the beautiful Western Highlands. (It bears a French aviator, who makes a couple of fleeting appearances. Their significance escaped me completely, but the arial shots are spectacular.)

Aack!! Mel Gibson as Carton! No, no! I love Mel but enough is enough. tkae a vacation. Since we're sort of fantasizing here about what we'd like to see Colin do next, I'd really like another contemporary role. I have hopes for this Marked Man project (which may already be dead) because it's a thriller, with hopefully intelligent intrigue. Something a little out of the ordinary for our boy. Oh, thank you Ben for some more little nuggets. If you keep spacing them out like this, we'll keep you around forever. ;-)

Sydney Carton Tale of Two Cities.....casting was announced a couple of months ago. Perhaps shooting has just started. Oh well... :-( Appparently there are plans afoot to film the life of Shackleton, the Polar explorer, and also Guy Gibson, in a re-make of "The Dam Busters". BUT, according to my reliable magazine article, English actors are unlikely to be cast in these roles, as they are considered to be "too effete"!! Don't know about the Scots and the Irish (and what about the Welsh?). And it's not just Hollywood...the British film industry rarely (never?) portrays the Englishman as Hero. Although perhaps that's just plain economics ..it must be hard to capture Antarctica or World War II on a budget of �1.5 million! However there do seem to be some feisty roles for English actresses/female actors...but is "feisty" the same as "heroic?" My hopes of a Royal Charity Premiere for SIL have receded , infact, gone. Last night the Queen attended a showing of (wait for it) "The Parent Trap". No further comment

Ben...Bethan.. pl. enlighten me....who is Sidney Carton? And hey,...how's about Daniel Day Lewis...Ralph Fiennes...Kenneth Branagh..(with a pretty good American accent in The Gingerbread Man), Jeremy Northam,and Ewan MacGregor. Not all the English actors are portrayed as being non-mainstream. Rupert Everett is gay and Austin Powers and Mr. Bean are comedians. Hugh Grant always plays Hugh Grant.The competition is fierce for starring roles in good films.But IMO British actors are not discriminated against. Maybe we can talk about how little the British public supports their own films and stars. When I was in England, "Elizabeth" was the only British film around. The big hit was "There's Something About Mary"...it was cleaning up.Big queues at the neighborhood Odeon on Kennsington High Street. The Full Monty was the last big audience draw.

BTW Ben...your presence is requested on #80 (Bridget Jones' Diary). Since you are an ex-mandarin we hope you'll explain to us the meaning of a government "Green Paper" and "White Paper" . Very crucial ;-)

Dear Evelyn, I'll wander over to #80 shortly. I read BJD in February, but as you know my memory is like a sieve and I've already forgotten most of it. I do remember liking it, but as for Green and White papers - where the hell do they come in?? Also, re English (and more generally British actors): I think there are fewer roles for them but this is no great surprise, since most of the audience is American, and prefers to see aliens killed by Bruce Willis, not some Limey. Fair enough, I think. (The exception, Sean Connery, is Scottish. They're allowed to be heroes.) You cite some actors, but none of these plays heroic roles Fiennes: fraudulent upper-class game show participant - classic part for an Englishman - psychopathic Nazi concentration camp commander, and over-cooked Hungarian traitor. Hardly Die Hard. Branagh: hero in Shakespeare but otherwise a flop. Day Lewis: Last of the Mohicans an exception! Ewan McGregor: Scottish. Finally, you're quite right that British films tend not to cater for the mass market. Pretty hopeless, a lot of them. Besides, the English themselves are loathe to revel in winning anyway. The flawed hero is the best thing. That's why I would have thought Sidney Carton would be meat and drink to an English actor. Carton is also effete! (p.s. Sidney Carton is the hero (anti-hero?) of A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens). "It is a far, far better that I do now than I have ever done...."etc. Great stuff. I urge you to read it before any film comes out!)

What did the zero say to the eight? Nice belt.

Do you think?

I was there with her when she took those pictures!!! btw!!!

I can't make out the script, what does it say?

Maybe we can talk about how little the British public supports their own films and stars (Evelyn) You have a point here, Evelyn. There is a major problem with distribution - films finding screens - but even when British films are released they rarely attract a huge audience. The odd one is highly successful, yes, but overall, most films die. Ben is correct when he says that British films don't cater for the mass market, and even critically acclaimed films tend to be rather downbeat and worthy, rather than entertaining. And unlike, let's say, France where local actors like Depardieu, Auteuil, Binoche h ve a loyal following, we really don't support our own "stars". Sydney Carton is more of an anti-hero, but one who makes the ultimate sacrifice of willingly going to the scaffold to save the husband of the woman he loves. Truly noble unrequited passion! He's physically languid, slightly unkempt, tall with dark eyes...not an action man leaping over the barricades! It will be interesting to see the Mel Gibson version, but I don't think it will invoke the spirit of the book. "Colin of London"... well, you may have struck lucky! Giving himself hairs and graces, is he?

Ben Sidney Carton is the hero (anti-hero?) of A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens). Oh you mean that Sidney Carton....You guys have to tell me when you're jumping around centuries. We were talking about MLSF and Denis Forman and I thought Sidney was a contemporary. LOL. Yes, I read it...long time ago. Ben, Bridget Jones' Diary installments are published every Saturday in The Electronic Telegraph.Last week she had several comments re: a Green Paper encouraging British citizens to get married. You should read it. Really, we would appreciate your comments .It stays up all week... under " Excetera." You are harsh on poor Ralph Fiennes. Who is having difficulties lately eaking out a hit. In "Sunshine" he plays three generations of the same character.Let's hope this role pleases you. (Jennifer is his wife.) BTW, I liked "Quiz Show"....hey, he was a Columbia professor (or was that only his dad).

( Bethan),not an action man leaping over the barricades! Definitely not a hero, more a monkey! Sidney Carton would have been perfect for him, I agree. There are plenty of other literary heroes for Colin out there, I wish he would develop his own projects soon.

What? No-one liked my joke? Just because The Firth's thighs don't get a mention. "What did the Firthettes say to Colin? Nice thighs." How about that? Your homework: chat up lines for CF. I'll be the judge. (p.s. Yes. Fiennes' father was a Columbia prof. in the film...but he was the honest one...;-) Great film, don't you think? Also, I haven't heard about this Green paper on marriage. As if the bloody Government has anything to do with it. Anyone - meaning anyone - can comment on prospective legislation, but it helps if you represent others, so lobby groups most often do so. MPs get their chance in the Commons. Check out, for an electrifying evening, www.open.gov.uk for some sample Green and White papers and published responses to them.)

(Ben),Your homework: chat up lines for CF. I'll be the judge. Colin, why don't you convert religion? As a muslin, you can have up to four wives!

How's this, You know you look like how I pictured Mr. Darcy in Pride & Prejudice. Okay, it's weak:)

Hallo ladies and gentleman, I've not contributed anything lately because of problems with my computer/modem/software/whatever. Anyway, I've managed to read your posts and have been very entertained by them ... as usual. Ben has been a wonderful addition to the group, pleased to meet you! ;-) I love the homework you suggested...must think of something. I am convinced that I'd never sum up the courage to say a word to any favourite celebrity, so maybe I get one or two ideas from this? Laura, I don't think h would like your line very much, would he? Considering his (at the very least)mixed feelings about Darcy... So, ladies, let's *think*! :-)

Teacher is far from impressed so far. Is this how you chat people up at home? What would your parents say? So eloquent away from the man, and yet I only have to put his virtual image before you and you are all mumbles and bashfulness. All I can say, as his representative on this website, is that The Virtual Firth is already looking over your shoulder and preparing to tell you he that he's run out of wine. Tick tock.

Terry, colinfirth.com seems to be down!!! Help!!!

All right, Ben - how's that: Your thighs or mine? (Well, that's a start...)

(Ben),Teacher is far from impressed so far. Colin, allow me to introduce to you our most severest critic: Ben!

Well I don't chat people up, they chat me UP! hahahahahahha!

Okay, then. The thighs of the Virtual Firth are striding across the room to chat up Laura. What are the rest of you gonna do?

Good game, Ben! But I think you've called our bluffs! I've conjured up the Virtual Firth and I couldn't even ask him for directions to the Colisseum or St Peter's Square, let alone say something challenging, witty and seductive. I thought perhaps that marriage was the impediment and removed it - it's wonderful what you can do in a Virtual World - but even a footloose and fancy-free Firth still renders me dumb. C-minus. Failed. Or are we allowed to use an Italian phrasebook? "Possiamo vederci di nuovo? Vuol darmi il Suo numero di telefono?" Okay, teacher, how about tackling your own assignment? If you met the Virtual Miss Ehle (or even the real thing!) what would you say to her?

I have always said that if I ever meet "The Man" I would inform him that he has the nicest fans on Drool. ( Moon ) Laura, I don't think he would like your line very much, would he? Considering his (at the very least)mixed feelings about Darcy..." And I don't care if he likes it or not I gonna thank him for taking the role of Mr. Darcy. (It put you in a better neighborhood, friend") Alright, so he's gonna chat up Laura...I'm going over to tell him that brother Jonathan is missing out by not contacting her...they have the same birthdays...born under the same sign....mean't for each other, for sure After that, I'll look down at his thighs. OK Ben? Do I pass? '

(Bethan)If you met the Virtual Miss Ehle (or even the real thing!) what would you say to her? Yeah, Ben...let's hear it. Witty, intelligent....What would you say to the Divine Ms. Ehle........I'm listening ....

Ben, I would say: "Please, may I use your handy / phone card / gettoni [applying to situation]- I have an emergency call to make! Just think, firth.com is down!!" "Wot?" TERRY, looks like firth.com is down, have you noticed? (I'll leave this message in several places, since I don't know where to find you)

Thank you, Terry!

I'll look at it and get it running!

Ben, how about these: "Beg pardon, but I've been writing a story and I need some help with British slang ...so which would be more correct? A wanker or a tosser?" ;-) Or then again a nonverbal chatup: I'd dangle my *Arsenal keychain* before his lovely eyes...

Hee hee hee hee hee hee hee hee hee. ;-p

Terry, and again no access to cf.com, neither with browser nor ftp.

Have you voted for Colin in the Celebrity 1000 poll at http://www.celebrity1000.com.actors.html

Sorry, I screwed that up it should be http://www.celebrity1000.com/actors.html

Lucie, we should name you Colin Firth's faithful cheerleader!

Yes I voted in the Celebrity 1000 poll. Last time Colin got 187 votes.Beat K. Branagh 104, DDLewis 97 and RF 87. And the results of the Favorite Actress Poll : (Drum Roll) Jennifer Ehle 87...Kristin SThomas 44. Hoorah for our team. When you vote for Colin pl. give Jennifer a vote (you can vote for 5) This from today's "E- Online Newsletter" Jerry Seinfeld, with that new faux married type he hangs with, at an advance screening of Shakespeare in Love. (Oh, what a tangled web these two are weaving.) Upper East Side. NYC. Think Colin attended?

Evelyn, I think you have the right idea, sidetrack Colin with Jon, Laura would not object (or so she has made us believe). Also I do not believe Colin attended the preview, there will be lots of previews set up in LA as well. Will he attend the US opening, that's the question? Karen, I do like your line, sure to get a reaction! I would love to use my favorite Mae West line Ben, but, I'm too shy: "Is that a gun in your pocket or are you just glad to me?" Which brings to mind that old English hit: "I'm feeling glad all over, yeah, baby, I'm glad all over, so glad you're mine..." Lucie, when will Colin do something for us in return, like an interview? Renate, we no longer use gettoni in Italy, phone cards are the big thing: scheda del telefono, otherwise cambio will do. But EVERYONE in Italy has a telefonino. So Ben, got your courage up to ask Ms. Ehle...?

That should be: Is that a gun in your pocket or are you just glad to see me?

Chat up line - nonchalant? in-your-face? Frankly, I wouldn't speak to him at all. But if it were the virtual Firth, I'd probably see if I could bum a cigarette off him (I don't smoke) and then thank him for privileging this female's gaze. And that's the best I can come up with after 2 days. :-p Ben? Oh, Ben? Since you're making us embarrass ourselves here (just kidding, we're all grownups here), care to do us a favor? Wink, wink. If we find anything out about a certain someone attending the Shakespeare in Love premiere in NYC on November 30, you wouldn't want to, um, perhaps take a little walk that evening? That sharp pain you're suddenly feeling is my elbow in your ribs. I don't know anyone with better luck than you.

Frankly, I wouldn't speak to him at all. (Heide) Nor me, I'm afraid! Not unless it was ABSOLUTELY unavoidable (like two people stuck in the lift scenario!) Reminds me of that rather mournful comment he made in the (book) "The making of Pride and Prejudice" about the read-through. Something like "not a soul came up to me....out of a cast of over fifty very few seemed willing to talk to me (not even JE?)...I had to work quite hard to convince people I was friendly". Oh dear, rather like the most popular boy in the school (only he doesn't know he is) tryin to woo the attention of the other kids in the playground". :-) Jerry Seinfeld, with that new faux married type he hangs with, at an advance screening of Shakespeare in Love (Evelyn) SIL seems to have a "buzz" about it, which is good. One thing that strikes me (in the UK at least) is how few films make any kind of impact at all. Six or seven releases every week and only one, if at all, may register on the public consciousness. Primary Colours, for example, didn't even get a selected release. BTW when are the Golden Globes? Is SIL released in time for (potential) nominations? Point to note, CF's last two leading ladies, Kristin Scott Thomas and Jessica Lange, both got Golden Globe Best Actress nominations, so maybe he'll bring good luck to GP and JD (provided he kisses them, of course....unlikely in the case of JD!)

BTW when are the Golden Globes? Is SIL released in time for (potential) nominations? According to variety and my memory, nominations have to be in by the beginning of December, so that would preclude SIL, I imagine unless the previews count!

I voted for Jennifer too and KST. Judith Dench too, I love her, she wonderfulin the 1/2 hour comedy As We Were.

(Bethan)One thing that strikes me (in the UK at least) is how few films make any kind of impact at all. UK doesn't publicize enough. SIL is supposedly getting a preview on November 30th in NYC (according to Karen's posting yesterday). This is Miramax's most expensive film yet ($42 M). The day before, Sunday Nov. 29, A&E will show all six hours of P&P continuously. Now, Miramax and A&E are owned by Disney.... Coincidence? Primary Colours, for example, didn't even get a selected release Deservedly so. I saw it. IMO it was dreadful.Lost wads of money in the US.

From "The New York Times" Sunday November 15, 1998 Arts & Leisure Section "A Blizzard of Holiday Movies" article "...Miramax has been especially successful opening films late in the year -- "The English Patient," "The Piano" and "Good Will Hunting" -- and turning them into Oscar contenders. This year the company has hopes for "Shakespeare in Love," a comedy-drama with Gwyneth Paltrow, and "Little Voice," a poignant comedy with Jane Horrocks and Michael Caine. "

I too disliked Primary Colors...I never got past the first few scenes. I enjoyed the book, and I liked Travolta in Pulp Fiction, but this horribly fake Clinton pretender! :-(( Here's my chat-up line for CF (first attempt): "Excuse me, didn't you play Mr. Bingley in Pride and Prejudice? I thought you were splendid!"

Gi-- My chat up line is along the same lines: 'Oh Mr. Firth! I'm a big fan of your work! I especially loved your performance in Far From the Madding Crowd!'

Gi, Winter, considering his attitude towards fame I suppose he would just *love* you for these lines. LOL!