Well there is an even sexier pic INSIDE the mag, but can't find it on the website... so sorry... swimming in March at Lyme??? (you'll be drunk right???). Have good weekend... (if a cold and wet one)

Karen thanks for the advance screening tip! Have registered and am keeping everything crossed...and it's very difficult to type ;-)

Thanks Karen - entered twice PLUS entered a Saturday morning kids' phone-in comp for premiere tickets courtesy of Gabrielle

From Ananova: Zellweger signed up for Bridget 2 Renee Zellweger has been lined up to star in a sequel to Bridget Jones's Diary. The makers of the �25 million movie have been so thrilled by the reaction to the comedy at previews that want to make a follow up. Zellweger is understood to have been optioned for the sequel along with co-stars Hugh Grant and Colin Firth, who play the men in Bridget's life. A senior source at Miramax, which co-produced the film, told Ananova: " We think Americans will go in a big way for Bridget and we could be into a three-part series."

Three parts!? I missed one! ;-)

Let's hope it won't be a case of too much of a good thing... ;-)

The trailers have started on tv tonight. Boat scene.

I saw a trailer on TV tonight. Very short and NO Colin! I don't know if this one was cut down to be short or if this is the only one that's running. The elevator scene ("ding dong!"), HG asks RZ out, the boat scene, and RZ answering the phone. Anybody else see a better version (i.e. with CF) of the trailer?

Zellweger signed up for Bridget 2 Renee Zellweger has been lined up to star in a sequel to Bridget Jones's Diary. The makers of the �25 million movie have been so thrilled by the reaction to the comedy at previews that want to make a follow up. I'm sure this could happen. Sequels are big business, and if you've hit on a successful formula, which the public like, why not repeat it? And there's a lot of potential storylines out there for BJ. And I also think it does actors no harm to be involved in sequels...they don't get typecast any more...just get more (and better) offers! Ther's an option on all 4 Harry Potter books, with 3 more to come! A sequel to BJD would be quite a modest undertaking (but not a three-parter ....quit while you're winning!)

Miramax is trying to get them to commit now before the movie breaks records ($$$), and the stars as for points. I am obtimistic that if Renee signs Colin will. (Throwing that thought out into the universe as in mantra) ;-) Thanks for that article, Karen. Sometimes I fear if we all discover our inner Bridgets, it�s the same thing as the total submission, as the inner yashmak. And I always thought that having a "Bridget moment" or as I call it "pulling a Bridget", was being clumsy, uncouth, not-with-it, etc. As in when I had to drive(just me!), my husband's v.v handsome British cousin to a dinner and was very late because of trying to match stockings, bag and lipstick to my very short dress and forget to stick wallet in handbag, then as I am speeding to the restaurant realised that the car(fancy Alpha Romeo), was on E and had to stop and get gas(full sevice of course!), and I had no money to pay! Cousin came to my rescue, but we were very late because I couldn't drive at the speed I had planned (no driver's lic. in bag). I said "I pulled a Bridget Jones" and luckily he understood! LOL! That reviewer never got that part of Bridget.

The option for future pics would've been in the original contract and THAT may have been the reason CF would've hestitated IF he did so. Another thing: a sequel need not be based on TEOR; it could be entirely new, especially since a part of the plot is similar to Brokedown Palace (but comedic). We could have MD in LA and Bridget with him. Then of course, RZ could be with her dog and remain fairly thin, as no fatty or carbohydrate-laden food exists in LA. ;-D Have the Snowman Tie pic and another of Colin, plus there are bunch of others going on the Gallery page shortly, including one of Bridget and dad with paper crowns and two others of the friends. And I like this one far better than the other one taken during the same scene (poofy hair); sorry about the quality.

Thanks, Karen. Those are my favourite coller shirts but the tie is not knoted properly. Will I ever see a perfect fit? ;-) BTW, there is nothing wrong with wearing a snowman tie to a Xmas party. What happened to everyone's sense of humour? Don't throw your tie away, Ben. :-D

Somehow I can't picture Fitzwilliam Darcy with a snowman cravat. ;-D

Lucky for us, for him and Jane Austen, they did not exist back then. ;-D

Since these are taped, we can be reasonably sure they will be aired. All times US Eastern: Friday 4/6/01 5:00 pm VH1 Behind the Movie Saturday 4/7/01 2:00 pm E! Behind the Scenes - Bridget Jones's Diary Sunday 4/8/01 3:00 am E! Behind the Scenes - Bridget Jones's Diary (according to my check of E!'s schedule, the Behind the Scenes show is aired as follows: premieres Saturday, 2 pm, with additional airings Friday 8 am (may be following Friday); Saturday 3 am; and Sunday 3:30 am. For the VH1 program, don't you think we'll see more than just Gabrielle's music vid? I suspect Geri Halliwell's too and possibly all the others on the soundtrack.

From Yahoo UK news today: Stars In Dublin For Bridget Jones Premiere A host of stars are expected to arrive in Dublin for the Irish premiere of Bridget Jone's Diary on April 6. Amongst them are rumoured to be the film's leading lady, Renne Zellweger. Currently in LA, Zellweger has confirmed that she'll be flying to London for the world premiere of the film on April 5. While it hasn't been confirmed that the star will be attending the Irish premiere, insiders have revealed that she would very much like to make the trip. 'She's never been to Ireland' a source close to the star said 'and she thinks this is the perfect excuse to make a visit'. Zellweger's co-star Hugh Grant is also expected to be in attendance. Grant has already been this side of the Irish Sea and by all accounts is more than happy to return. While the film is set to become one of the year's big successes Zellweger has already stated that she will not film a sequel 'I was overweight for eight months and I don't want to go through that experience again' she said. ~~~~~~ Given the number of typos and errors, should we believe any of this? Neither is confirmed. Of course, it would explain why US TV blitz is not that week. If US premiere is April 2, then it is the World Premiere. London's premiere was to be April 4th

If US premiere is April 2, then it is the World Premiere. London's premiere was to be April 4th I hate to be a Nervous Nellie, but that's awfully close. We haven't seen a mention in print of the US premiere. I'm on Renee's side. Quit while you're thin and a successful Bridge. Critics invariably compare sequels to the first one. And a thin Bridget makes it like any other comedy. I've never liked Minnie Driver as much as the chunky gal in Circle of Friends.

At this point, I think any BJD sequel is wishful thinking on the part of the Miramax bean-counters. Let's get through the first one; sequels usually never measure up to the originals. And none of them are going to sign on without first seeing a script. I had to LOL at Miramax being suddenly elevated to "co-producer." IMO, all they did was be savvy enough to grab the US distribution rights; I can't see that they produced anything. Universal put up the money, and Working Title is the creative genius. Harvey, make yourself useful by booking the Concorde so these folks can make it to the varous premieres; just don't get caught smoking in the loo again.;-) ;-) Karen, thanks for the great news on the E! Behind the Scenes and the VH-1 show. Lots to look forward to, gang! Love how he looks in the Frosty tie shot. But where's his "corncob pipe and button nose"?;-) A jolly, jolly soul, for sure!:-) Agree that the second pic, sans poofy hair, is the better of the two from that scene, Karen.

Here's a pretty good review from Sight and Sound (published by British Film Institute). They are usually very critical as far as I know. There are 4 pics (not new), 3x Zellweger, and 1 RZ + Colin. No HG. http://www.firth.com/bjd/ss0401.html ----- Karen, whatever the quality, the picture is adorable.

Forgot to mention that the Sight and Sound article is a MAJOR SPOILER and gives away a lot of scenes.

closing tag

"Zellweger seems more of an outsider trying to fit in, with traces of American gaucheness poking through the skin of the performance and the accent just a little too studiedly posh" Pssst...hey Leslie, the director and dialect coach are Brits.

I like all the spoilers...the plot is definitely P&P. The fight sounds hilarious, and the ending is just what we want to see! Thanks Renate! And thanks also to Karen and Mari for keeping us all up to date. I'd imagine that the publicity for BJD in the UK might step up a bit in the next couple of weeks...maybe some newspaper/TV interviews.

Query: Is it better to be gauche or corn-fed?;-) I think I'd rather be gauche. It sounds so . . .French.:-) LOL! Major spoilers, alright. (I like the book ending better, for obvious reasons, but this will be cute. LOL at the homeless opener.) Thanks, Renate.

Thanks for typing up that v. long review from S&S, Renate. The end part labeled Synopsis probably came right out of the UK Production Notes. I really hate these reviews that feel the need to write about SATC and AMcB...but a good review is a good review, and the back-handed compliments about RZ I suppose was inevitable. The homeless opener was captured by my onsite photog at Liverpool St Station as you recall. Cannot wait to see clumsy street fighting scene. I guess it will not be ballet-like as in CTHD. ;-D

Whoa, can this place build up any more steam? The momentum is amazing. VCR don't fail me now. Oh that boy is so darn cute. (Gaby honey, get in line.) If he can just project an ounce of his humor and charm that we see in that Dark Horizon's interview he's going to do so well. Just keep the lovely long fingers hands away from the nose. He's managing to keep up with Hughie's notices. May even be ahead by a nose after that "steals the movie" comment. (wipes a tear of relief away) Hmmm, dying to read the Sight and Sound article but think I will heed Renate's warning and wait. Thanks though to all for the flood of news.

Thanks for the link, Renate. My god, those are beyond spoilers... that's nearly the whole damn movie!

Karen!!! Your BJD site made the Guardian. They have you linked (see below) along with this preview: Bridget Jones's Diary UK release: April 13 The long-awaited adaptation of Helen Fielding's novel looks set to reign supreme as this year's Notting Hill. This expert London-set romance re-orders old ingredients like Hugh Grant and co-writer Richard Curtis and inserts an obligatory American star in Renee Zellweger. The cash tills will be ringing through 'til autumn. Happily the film itself winds up rather better than one might have guessed. At heart, of course, Bridget Jones's Diary offers your standard twittish romantic japery, not to mention a tourist-trap depiction of London (snowy streets every Christmas) that should be prosecuted for false advertising. But there's a genuine heart to the film, embodied in particular by Zellweger's pitch-perfect performance in the lead role. From an early scene crashed on the couch singing along to the radio as Frasier plays on the telly, her Bridget rings out big as life; a sympathetic soul you can't help rooting for. Meantime the plot is buttressed by an on-song supporting cast - Jim Broadbent as her lugubrious dad, Colin Firth as an icy lawyer and Grant as a rakish publisher who describes himself as "a terrible disaster with a posh voice and a bad character." During the movie's production, Texas-bred Zellweger had to get to grips with the necessary weight gain, duff British food, duffer British weather and the break-up of her relationship with Jim Carrey. She reportedly claims to never want to make another film in the UK again. On seeing the end result homegrown film-makers will be desperate to change her mind. Maybe they can even lure her back for the sequel.XB Useful sites Official site Unofficial site Bridget Jones fansite

From Richard Brooks' Biteback column in the Sunday Times: Fans of the Bridget Jones books and columns may well be disappointed. Shazza and Jude, her bestest friends, who are based on Helen Fielding's real bestest friends, Sharon Maguire and Tracey MacLeod, have been cut down to size in the movie. Most of that chitchat with her girlfriends about drinkies, ciggies and weight has been jettisoned for, you guessed it, much more lurv interest. Well, I suppose if you've hired the costly Colin Firth to play Mark Darcy, and Hugh Grant as Daniel Cleaver, any movie company would want its money's worth. Yet several women who have seen previews of Bridget Jones's Diary, which opens at Easter, are a mite disappointed. "It's the girlie talk that makes the books," one told me. "Where's it gone?" The movie's script went through several hands. First Fielding, the Bridget Jones author, had a go. Then both Andrew Davies, of Pride and Prejudice fame, and Richard Curtis added their bits. The end result is much more Curtis-like, with clear Four Weddings and Notting Hill touches. Fielding lobbied for her mate Maguire to direct. She had only previously done commercials. In fact, she acquits herself very well, as does Texan Ren�e Zellweger as Bridget. But Maguire has surely been asked to carry out the most selfless of director's cuts. She has brought the scissors not just to Jude's significance, but to her own as Shazza. The producer, Eric Fellner, of Working Title, assures me that "the girlfriends are quite content to be edited out". Chardonnay all round.

Thanks, Mari, but whatserhead's site is before mine and if you click on the pic, only her site is shown with the official one. But there's a genuine heart to the film, embodied in particular by Zellweger's pitch-perfect performance in the lead role. Exactly.

Re. the Guardian and Sunday Times comments... both sound like a feeble attempt at pre-release flak. But it looks as though they're struggling to find anything really negative to say about BJD. And the men all like RZ...which is v.g. for the Box Office (can't quite imagine the same reaction to Helena B-C or Emily Watson!)

Just caught my first glimpse of a BJD poster! Quite exciting really. I think it's the first time I've seen CF on a billboard (like a real Movie star :-)), apart from miniscule unrecognisable photo of glowering Wessex. Also RZ features in tomorrow's Telegraph...interview about how she 'became' Bridget.

Karen, it's par for the course, i.e., not what you know but who you know. It's connected with Empire so of course they're listing it. I still think it's grand that yours is listed also. Agree with you, Bethan, that their attempts to find something negative are coming off as half-hearted--I think they like it in spite of themselves!:-) Based on what we've seen so far, I'm optimistic that the UK reviews will be v. good. Well, I suppose if you've hired the costly Colin Firth to play Mark Darcy, and Hugh Grant as Daniel Cleaver, any movie company would want its money's worth. It works for me!:-) I doubt if many woman will feel shortchanged by Firth and, yes, even Huge. The end result is much more Curtis-like, with clear Four Weddings and Notting Hill touches. Nothing wrong with that (of course I might feel differently had the changes not worked to CF's advantage;-)

There's a video clip of Gabrielle being interviewed on GMTV the other day where, in response to a question as to whether she prefers Hugh or Colin, she says she's "totally in love with Colin Firth at the moment." http://www.gmtv.co.uk/the_show/vault/movie_clips/index.cfm

hired the costly Colin Firth to play Mark Darcy, Ooh, how much? And can we afford him? (Bethan) Just caught my first glimpse of a BJD poster! Didn't you just want to rip it down and take it home? But it looks as though they're struggling to find anything really negative to say about BJD. Agree too. We might have to watch for the BJD backlash. Hopefully it won't come until after the opening. If it comes stay tough, girls. Watched Breakfast With the Arts today but no mention yet of Colin's interview.

And I should clarify that there was no mention on BWTA of Colin's interview for next week's show.

(Heide) Watched Breakfast With the Arts today but no mention yet of Colin's interview LOL! I had it on in the other room (which I never do) just in case. ;-D Speaking of television, another HG appearance scheduled: Wednesday, April 4, on Rosie. Is Rosie taped?

Am all unnecessary and of a flutter, have just seen the video for Geri Halliwell's "It's raining men" on MTV. The song's not quite up to the original Weather Girls version but who cares given the content of the video! The video is very "Kids from Fame-y" but there are clips by the truckload ladies, and very carefully edited for major impact e.g. "tall (cut to shot of brooding MD), blonde (BJ herself), strong and mean (the Gnat)" Also towards end you get some great fight clips again carefully edited .. "It's raining men! (thwack! unfortunately it's MD who gets a thwacking) Hallelujia, it's raining men! (crack! MD goes a-sprawling on the pavement) Please forgive if someones already posted details but am so pleased I've actually seen some clips at last :-) Get those VCRs cued!

Bethan: Just caught my first glimpse of a BJD poster! It seems to me there are three different poster styles in use on the tube - only one with CF & HG in. The one I last saw used the tag-line: Aloof. Unavailable. Ice-queen. Aloof. Unavailable. Ice-queen. Aloof. Unavailable. Ice-queen. Hmm, fancy a shag, though... The WHOLE tag-line was in handwriting, unlike the last one Karen put up here, and just RZ in the picture. Posters everywhere, & don't forget the supermarket Diet Coke promotional tie-ups ... can TV ad trailers be far away?

Thanks for your breakdown of the Raining Men vid, Tracy. Didn't think Geri 'hie me to the eating disorders clinic' Halliwell could match the original. Too bad MD takes a beating but we know who gets the girl in the end. ;-) As for the spoilers contained in the article Renate posted--was there really any doubt about the overall direction taken for the ending? ;-) Anyone here seriously think BJ would end up with Huge Floppsy Gnatman? Still, am all curiousity as to how many shoulder grinds we'll see...;-D (Biteback) Then both Andrew Davies, of Pride and Prejudice fame, and Richard Curtis added their bits. The end result is much more Curtis-like, with clear Four Weddings and Notting Hill touches. Huh? Which endings to 4W and NH did he see? If the ending is more Curtis-like then there will be some happily-ever-after-married-and-pregnant-or-with-children shots. (Bethan) But it looks as though they're struggling to find anything really negative to say about BJD. And the men all like RZ...which is v.g. for the Box Office (can't quite imagine the same reaction to Helena B-C or Emily Watson!) I couldn't agree more. A question to those who pays attention to this sort of thing: when can we expect US reviews? This week or early next?

(Eileen)Still, am all curiousity as to how many shoulder grinds we'll see...;-D Having given up on shags...I say we'll see one...a "chaste" one.

Get those VCRs cued! Posters everywhere ...Diet Coke promotional tie-ups ... can TV ad trailers be far away? Probably not - but very soon *I* shall be far away, I'm afraid... Don't laugh! Hubby planned this hol nearly a year ago and what a terrible coincidence... Did he know the date of the premiere before anyone else, do you think? Oh, I am absolutely p***ed off. Ladies in the UK, please video as much as you can! I shall be after favours when I'm back... ;-) (May I remind you I can copy videos, but only European PAL.)

Amazon now have the soundtrack on pre order for �11-99

Who, I want to know, who edited that music vid? They didn't show HG sprawled on the ground? Grrrr But sounds very funny. Am sure Hughie takes some cheap shots and lands some low blows for our boy to get laid out like that. (OK, am not going to do commentary on next Oscar de la Joya fight) Anyway, hopefully, we'll see it on that VH1 program.

It's ok if he gets knocked down as long as he lands in my lap. :-)

Looks like there is only the one fight but that it covers a lot of territory on Bridget's street: "London's Globe Tavern in Borough...provided the exterior. For the neighborhood, production designer Gemma Jackson and locations manager Adam Richard found a street with a vibrant, bustling character--replete with busy fruit market--reflecting Bridget's personality. Jackson then adapted existing shop facades into a trendy Fragipani, a minicab office and Mr. Ramadas' newsstand. The Greek restaurant into which Mark and Daniel's fight erupts was created from scratch. Jackson's creations were so realistic, that several times during filming, members of the public attempted to buy a newspaper from Mr. Ramadas' shop or book a table in the Greek restaurant."

It's ok if he gets knocked down as long as he lands in my lap. :-) I'm afraid you have to join a long queue (line)...

Just saw trailer on US TV for the first time. V. short compared to lovely trailer at web site. During "True Lies" on Fox. Hmmm...wonder if they will show it during Oscar (much too late for me to stay up). I was so surprised, I dropped the remote control. Didn't catch much, but it's "starring RZ and HG". Shouldn't surprise me, I suppose, since we don't know who CF is here in the US. However, there was a TDH man who said "Outside Cleaver!"

How to deal with the slighting of CF: Tell yourself that it's OK that he loses the fight in the video, and it's OK that he doesn't appear in the US TV trailer, and it's OK that the magazine photos only show the one with the geeky reindeer sweater. People will go to see this to see RZ and HG. And they will discover CF. And when your friends tell you that this incredibly handsome man was HG's rival (and a far better actor playing a nicer character with better hair etc. etc. YOU can say: HAH! Told you so!!!!!! and feel v. smug.

You are SO right, Kate!

Thought Renee looked elegant at Oscars, tho' only vv short glimpse. Huge Flopsy is well rid of previous escort who was vv rude in Brit interview and clearly completely off the wall!

From today's (London) Evening Standard: http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/dynamic/hottx/top_review.html?in_review_id=374780&in_review_text_id=320515

Cute article, thanks, Ben! Even in the jumper, he is raw sex in a jumper). Well we knew that didn't we? ;-) LOL!

Ben you are a veritable Star!!! What a wonderful article, I won't elaborate in case the comments are spoilers for those who haven't read it. "Raw sex in a jumper." You read it at drool first. Ben, I can only surmise that your excellent piece of sleuthing was inspired by an Astenesque wander on the Cobb at Lyme Regis!! I also think that the author does not exactly belong to the same "club" as those of us who post here! This is a discussion that will run and run....... Thanks for such a gem.

Ha ha ha . Moon just found your post. We were both obviously drawn to the same comment!! Can't imagine why

I fear my DH will be very upset with me if I drag him to see this film. "You're not starting that Darcy thing again!" I don't know if I can put up with another round of Colin bashing from him. ;-)

Mine chuckled with joy at the "Colinless" trailer we saw recently in the cinema!

Loved the article as well, which really points up two potential flaws in this movie: (1) Daniel will be portrayed as a good guy toward the end and (2) Colin should've gone into the lake. Cannot abide the thought that a *wet-shirted Hugh* will be drooled after. Those complaints aside, I too had to pause at the comment "he is raw sex in a jumper." ;-)

(Karen) Looks like there is only the one fight but that it covers a lot of territory on Bridget's street As long as they don't fight through all four seasons...;-) (Kate) People will go to see this to see RZ and HG. And they will discover CF. And when your friends tell you that this incredibly handsome man was HG's rival (and a far better actor playing a nicer character with better hair etc. etc. YOU can say: HAH! Told you so!!!!!! and feel v. smug. Precisely, precisely. Watch for those ads to change after the movie opens...;-D

I only read the article after posting it. Can't really comment, except to say my eyebrows were raised by the extended speculation about their respective "sizes". Is there really an inverse correlation between niceness and size? Not having researched the question, I'm not really equipped, if you'll forgive the word, to say so. Does sort of make one wonder where one lies on the scale, however. BTW, the water was BLOODY cold. I got a lot nicer during that swim.:-)

(Moon)I don't know if I can put up with another round of Colin bashing from him. ;-) Tell him you've switched to Hughie.Really, you girls are so uncreative. You don't have to tell the truth *all* the time ;-) (Ben)Can't really comment, except to say my eyebrows were raised by the extended speculation about their respective "sizes". Is there really an inverse correlation between niceness and size? Hey Ben...."size" matters ;-)

Ben did you miss our discussion hotfoot from 3DOR about Colin's feet last year?

Yes. I'm glad to say that I did.

We knew you were on the case! Interesting to see if TES gets any letters or feedback re this article!

BTW, the water was BLOODY cold. I got a lot nicer during that swim.:-) DUH!!! It is only MARCH last time I checked my calendar.... (I would liken that to jumping into the North Atlantic here in Boston in January... damn stupid if you ask me....) :) BTW, Ben, the chills and flu-like symptoms will be appearing very shortly.. (says she who just got over flu!)

Great article, Ben! I was pleased to see CF discussed on an equal basis with HG, who seems to get more attention. But, really, "good enough for any viewer who was just about to fall for Colin but might change her mind." and "We will never, ever be able to decide." That may be the "bulk" of the viewers, but some of us have decided, and are not about to change our minds!! Too bad the movie isn't coming out around Christmas--think of the merchandizing tie-in for reindeer jumpers!!

(Ben) BTW, the water was BLOODY cold. I got a lot nicer during that swim.:-) ROTF! (Eileen)As long as they don't fight through all four seasons...;-) Ahh, you people are *on* today! RE: Daniel turning ok-ish at the end: what a sell-out. Can't have people leaving the theater actively disliking Huge, now can we? It was probably a condition of him doing the film. I smell a rat. And a sequel. . . For all you people whining about CF being slighted (me? I never whine;-) this was in yesterday's LA Times, front page of Living section, pics of Helen (poor thing!)and of BJ and Mark. Thanks, Leslie, Jana, and Donna: By Ann O'Neill All Helen Fielding craved was a "haven" in Los Angeles and a little peace and quiet following a grueling international book tour promoting her clever "Bridget Jones" novels. So she plunked down $1.38 million in November 1999 for a hideaway in the Hollywood Hills. Just three months after escrow closed, the leaky roof collapsed during a rainstorm, bringing the ceiling down with it. Echoing a scene from her second "Bridget Jones" book, the British author was left with a gaping hole in her home. So Fielding is doing what any red-blooded American would. She's suing. "It's life imitating art," she said recently. "If Bridget had brought a house in L.A. this would have happened to her." Fielding's Bridget is an endearing, never-married, weight-obsessed 30-something who consumes cigarettes, chardonnay, self-help books and men who are bad for her. She has a knack for getting into excruciatingly embarrassing situations, which she records in her diary. In England, she's been as popular as the Spice Girls. Bridget's romantic misadventures have been dramatized in the upcoming film "Bridget Jones's Diary," produced by the people behind "Four Weddings and a Funeral." It stars Renee Zellweger, who pudged out for the part, and Hugh Grant and Colin Firth, who didn't. The film, due in theaters April 13, is a hoot - especially the fistfight between a caddish Grant and a brooding Firth. Fielding's next step toward becoming a bona fide Yank was to hire a publicist, who wasn't keen on allowing her client to speak to anyone wanting to ask about the lawsuit. Anyway, we had already met the 40-something Fielding a few weeks ago at a spiffy Talk magazine lunch at Asia de Cuba. Initially guarded, she warmed up as lunch progressed, spearing us a slab of chicken and telling war stories about her days as a journalist. There was a decade at the BBC and a couple of newspaper stints. She said she quit one London newspaper job in a huff after the editors injected "poison" into her profile of James Gilbey, the Princess Di swain at the center of the "Squidgy-gate" scandal. "I woke up the next day with no job," she said, laughing. Fielding, an Oxford graduate, found work at another paper, the Independent, writing features and then a regular column about an urban working "singleton," a much nicer word than "spinster." Reluctant to reveal too much about herself, she created an alter ego - Bridget Jones - in 1995. A year later, the columns became the basis for "Bridget Jones's Diary," a novel that borrowed heavily from Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." People constantly compare her to, and confuse her with, Bridget. Even Fielding isn't quite sure where the line can be drawn. Last year's sequel, "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason," offers continued parallels between the author's art and life. For starters, there's a running joke about Firth, who stars in the upcoming movie in the role of suitor Mark Darcy. Firth, who also played Mr. Darcy in the BBC's adaptation of "Pride and Prejudice," is an object of desire for Bridget and her friends: "We all fell silent then, watching Colin Firth emerging from the lake dripping wet, in the see-through white shirt. Mmm. Mmmm," Bridget writes. Later, Bridget interviews Firth in Italy. Although Firth is eager to promote a new movie, Bridget is fixated on the lake scene: "When they had to do another take, did you have to take the wet shirt off and then put a dry one on?" Fielding's current domestic difficulties also were foreshadowed in the book. Gary, a London contractor, takes $3,500 from Bridget and knocks open a wall, never to return. Her diary records the catastrophe: "Gaaah! Gaaah! Gaah! Is bloody great hole in side of flat! Is left open to outside world in manner of gaping precipice and all the houses at the other side can see in." She sics a barrister on Gary. The sequel ends with a hint of what is to come for the author. Bridget contemplates moving to Los Angeles with her man. "It's very warm and sunny there, and they have swimming pools," Darcy pitches. Bridget capitulates: "Hurrah! Am going to America to start again, like the early pioneer.... Will be fantastic in California with sunshine and millions of self-help books.... and Zen and sushi and all healthy stuff." Fielding has dived into our swimming pools and eaten our sushi. But she's also run headfirst into some less glittering facts of L.A. life: Somebody's always happy to take your money. (Incoming millionaire singleton! Ka-ching .) And it's not always sunny and warm. It can rain buckets, which it did on Feb. 21, 2000, the day the ceiling of her new house fell in. Gaaah! Is bloody great hole! And the poolhouse in sinking, the toilets back up, and the heating system and front gate don't work. Gaaah! Fielding became a real live litigating Angeleno last month when she filed her legal papers in Superior Court in Santa Monica. According to the suit, she told her real estate agent she needed a house in move-in condition so "she could continue to write, entertain persons in the publishing and movie business, and concentrate on her professional and personal life." Instead, she claims that she was duped into paying an inflated price for the house and that real estate agents covered up structural flaws by patching up cracks and water stains. Named as defendants are the agents involved in the transaction and Prudential John Aaroe & Associates, Pickford Realty Inc. and Reliance Home Inspectors. Fielding seeks unspecified damages, alleging that she "sustained lost earnings" and had to seek counseling. Peter Solecki, general counsel for both real estate entities, declined to comment. The home inspector, George Baral, said it would be difficult for him to spot defects if someone had taken pains to hide them. "If they cover the spot on the roof with gravel, then the visual inspection cannot determine that there might be a leak there," Baral said. "The water goes in through places you can't really see." Welcome to the City of Angels, luv.

To say nothing of snowmen ties!!

Aw, Ben got there first with the ES article link. There's another BJ article in the paper though no CF references http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/dynamic/lifestyle/fashion/top_article.html?in_review_id=374775&in_review_text_id=320510. I couldn't believe my luck when I bought the paper this evening (as usual) and found himself on the front page, so as you can imagine I had a very enjoyable journey home, pity about the drooling though, it does upset fellow passengers I find ;-P~~~~ The online piece doesn't give any pix ( which I'm sure we've all seen before but any excuse eh?) so in true Tracy fashion I shall now, for your delectation and delight, louse up my scanning ..here goes... The front page... Humph not sure about that order!!! .....that's better!

Rats...see I told you I'd louse it! .....that's better!

(Tracy) There's another BJ article in the paper though no CF references Never mind..."a picture is worth...." CF's pics are interesting. Is the first one one a new one? You did great, Tracy.Thanks.

So HF's suing in Santa Monica, huh? ;-D (note: need to get roofers here before April showers or will be in same boat as HF) v. much like the emphasis on CF in the LA Times article. Ann O'Neill must be a fan with v.g. taste. She knows the books well and she knows P&P. Could The Evening Standard have found more hideous pictures? Well, yes, I'm sure they could but YEEEEEEEECCCCCH. That cover one must be from his Fever Pitch portfolio. And come on, Huge looks like he's 17 years old. Thanks for the scans, Tracy.

I don't think so...I seem to remember it about the time of FP hence big hair I suppose. BTW what are "fathomless eyes" ? Huge Gnat "...without the sweetness loses the floppiness which for so long has misled so many of us into calling him a "floppy arse"...." Misled? Never, he'll forever be known as such to me ;-)

Just called TODAY . Show apparently goes through several changes before it goes on air. ( Must think I just fell off turnip truck) Could not tell me at this time if Colin would be on tomorrow. Best to call every morning . Show starts at 7 AM... Tel.lines open at 9AM ;-)

(Evelyn) Best to call every morning . Show starts at 7 AM... Tel.lines open at 9AM ;-) Shades of Bethan's contact at the BBC! Durr. IMO he'll be on closer to or just after the 4/13 opening (before TIOBE starts filming--there's about a 10-day window). Makes more sense since we ignorant Americans won't know who he is until the movie's out. ;-D (Karen) That cover one must be from his Fever Pitch portfolio. And come on, Huge looks like he's 17 years old. Agreed. Fix! Fix!

Oooweeee!! My BJD poster has arrived. You can read bits of the writing that forms the background. v. todger-related. One part at top says, "Will not fantasize [Am. spelling] about my boss Daniel Cleaver (he's gorgeous!). Mark Darcy is a bore and stiff. (if only!) Daniel or Darcy?" (Eileen) IMO he'll be on closer to or just after the 4/13 opening Assuming that he does it at all. But you keep calling, Evelyn. They're going to get so sick of you that they'll probably tell you. ;-D

One of my informants has called A&E and they've said the BWTA interview with Colin is Sunday *slitting my wrist* April 1.

Elliot didn't mention that at all. Have to squeeze Colin in between the opera singers if it's true. Could make a joke about the fat lady singing but shall restrain myself. Snippets of BJD interviews (no Colin) on the Oxygen channel tonight. Plus Oxygen (?) was shown at 7pm EST tonight - have not a clue if it's repeated. Just Renee, Hugh, Sharon Maguire and Helen talking about the film and bits of the same trailer. Film described as Bridget having to choose between two men - Hugh Grant and Colin Firth - a dilemma that every woman would love to have.

the BWTA interview with Colin is Sunday *slitting my wrist* April 1. Will be in LA! No way to tape it! Major help needed. Thanks, Tracy! Hair FP. What is wrong with the PR dept.!

Is this an April Fool's joke?

A very important date in my calendar. My wedding anniversary! ;-)

BTW, you should find Colin's quips reproduced in Tuesday's Telegraph, the Peterborough column: THUS Colin Firth on his Bridget Jones co-star Hugh Grant: "Hugh's been telling everyone that it's me who fights like a girl. But all I can say in response is it takes one to know one. He was the first one to pull my hair. I'd never have dreamt of doing that. He scratches as well. So that should give you an idea of his character."

Well, Moon, it's not signed in blood, but here's written confirmation that he will be on BWTA this Sunday. Many thanks to "Silvie": Yes, indeed, my producer informs me that it will be April 1st. And I talk about you fans in the interview. EF ******** Heh, heh, heh . . . .

Thanks, Mari! I'm always up for an April Fool's joke. ;-)

Dark Horizons has another interview by Paul Fischer, this time with RZ. But the strange thing is the last line which says the movie opens in the US on April 6. http://darkhorizons.com/news9/bridge.htm

Have I missed something or is this really news? In my local paper (Swiss)I read, Zellweger and Grant were said to be a couple. The original report is from the Star.

The Sight & Sound review that Renate arduously typed in is now online. It states up front that their "synopses give away the plot in full, including plot twists." http://www.bfi.org.uk/sightandsound/2001_04/bridget_jones.html (No, you haven't missed anything, Nita. Nothing's been posted here.)

I thought it was Portia de Rossi and Hugh Grant??? I can see how they can confuse RZ with PdR:)

Leave it to Laura to fill in the blanks on important celebrity gossip. ;-D

Leave it to Laura to fill in the blanks on important celebrity gossip. ;-D ] Hey, I read that here!!! :) (okay, I think I saw it on eonline;)) Tea w/ Ted... ;)

More TV appearances, plus additional showings of the VH1 special. Besides HG on Rosie, he's scheduled for: Saturday 4/7/01 2:13 am (central time) ABC syndicated show "Entertainers" (check for local listing) RZ will be on Letterman Tuesday 4/9/01

Cute pic of CF in a tux is now running with the online version of the Hugh vs. Colin story. http://www.thisislondon.com/html/hottx/film/top_direct.html

Yummmmm, now that's a picture that should be handed out for publicity instead of the big hair FP shot:

Why so despondent about the BWTA schedule, Karen? No cable TV in the hotel? :-( I will be at sis' so can probably watch this Sun. but don't know if I can tape. BWTA enthusiasts: what time are the interviews usually aired? Don't tell Elliot ;-D but I haven't watched the program since CF's last appearance. (Elliot) And I talk about you fans in the interview. **Very old ladies alert! Very old ladies alert!** ;-D

Cute pic of CF in a tux is now running with the online version of the Hugh vs. Colin story. It's darling...I also think it's a high schol pic. BWTA enthusiasts: what time are the interviews usually aired? *Usually* first hour is music.But I'd tune in at 9 AM and read the papers just in case.

Personally I am thrilled it is on on the 1st, it means I shall be able to see it first hand. Yippee. Incidentally there was an item about BJD on the This Morning programme today with new clips from the film, lots of MD and I just loved the scene where he tells Bridget that he likes her "just as she is".

(Elliot) And I talk about you fans in the interview. (Eileen), **Very old ladies alert! Very old ladies alert!** ;-D LOL! So who has been sending Elliot emails? It would be awfully wicked of him to name names. ;-)))

Have just seen my first TV commercial for BJD. Last night I taped Ally McBeal and there it was! It was a shorter version of the trailer, had a scene I hadn't seen before (likely a fantasy wedding scene) and showed her bottom getting patted in the elevator and saying 'ding dong' Mark calling 'Cleaver outside' was shown along with the two flying through the glass (ATTN Men: Action flick!), but that's it for him. No real emphasis on the two guys: one right, one wrong.