Alan Rickman Guestbook

(April 1 - April 30, 2000)

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No no - scroll on. Its only Aug 18 that there is a limited release on Blow Dry - looks to go national on the 25th...
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 19:10:18 (PDT)

Still can't access Claire's page, except for one time. Got through to the no sound page, but, as Claire said, it hasn't been updated. Well, I did get through to the updated page once, and the pictures are great, as per usual, Claire.
Georgia
Anaheim, Ca USA - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 18:38:48 (PDT)

I was quite astonished when my pre-ordered copy of GQ showed up in the mail yesterday, 4-29, as I thought the release date was May 2! So you know what I did last night :) For those of you who haven't pre-ordered or don't already have a copy in your hot little hands, it's on sale in the US at Target stores this week - $14.99 VHS; $19.99 DVD. The cut scenes on the DVD include 2 of Alans.
Karen
USA - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 17:49:28 (PDT)

Hmmm. A little gray cloud appears on the horizon. According to Box Office Mojo (honestly, who thinks of this stuff?), Blow Dry will have a "limited" release. Translation: major cities only?
Magda
Canada - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 17:24:29 (PDT)

I was only going to look at the magazines, but, somehow, I left Borders Bookstore with the new issue of Tricycle (remember my degree: Religious Studies?) and a copy of Kevin Smith's pbk. screeplay of "Dogma." The facts are that 1)I was bent-double, laughing at the scene in which a certain seraph tries to convince a certain woman that he IS an angel and 2)I was laughing so hard I dropped the book, and 3) I could "hear" Alan speaking the lines as a fake-Cockney version of the Sheriff -- I had to buy the book. Honey, this Mr. Smith went to Hollywood and cleaned up with a story that is outrageous and funny. It's a pity that the ones who should have seen it first, then place charges about language, etc., probably couldn't understnad the hip slang, or forgive Loki his violence or Jay his obsession. I would like to see a trailer for Smith's (I trust he was kidding) movie about the Reformation. Wiil Zwingli be portrayed by Patrick Bergin? :)
Ann Wagner
AZ USA - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 17:07:45 (PDT)

Nice pictures, Claire! As dreadful as that film, 'Close My Eyes' is, I think that is my favouritest role for AR... (Mind you, I loved him in Rasputin as well, although reading the latest Rasputin biography by Edvard Radzinsky is reducing the movie to a pile of fairy tale snippets...)

Ruby Wax is currently in Australia promoting herself for a 2 hour, one woman tour in July (and presenting at our local tv award ceremony...). Its the first time I've seen/heard her and all I can say is... hmmm. Not my cup of tea! No mention of AR starting her comedy career in the one interview I saw of her...
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 16:04:45 (PDT)

The May/June issue of Madison magazine has an interview with Rachel Griffiths ("A Centered Self")sprinkled with a few remarks from the set of Blow Dry.
"Rachel's very Australian in that way, very direct," says actress Natasha Richardson, Griffiths' co-star in the upcoming Blow Dry. And she's got an excellent sense of humor. She's never afraid to speak her mind."
"Those reactive roles are always the hardest" (i.e., her work in Hillary and Jackie), says NR from the set of Blow Dry. "It's very easy for the audience to relate to the protagonist, who's always doing something. It's much harder to be the person who's watching and feeling it."
Blow Dry is a Miramax comedy about two hairdressers in the North of England who also happen to be lovers--a far cry from the angst of H & J. "We tease each other about being girlfriends. We constantly tell the crew that we're really having sex."
I wonder if any sites for Natasha Richardson and Rachel Griffits (there must be a few?) might have other behind-the-scenes quips that might be forthcoming about the Third (nameless)BD Hairdresser. I haven't looked. By the way, Griffiths comes across in this interview as a paragon of integrity and civic-mindedness and someone AR would like.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 15:41:28 (PDT)

I´ve just seen GQ for the second time now. The first time i´ve seen it, I just sat there laughing, so I had to see it a second time to get a closer look on Mr. Rickman. Can´t wait until it will be out on video on Tuesday :)))))! Georgina, thanks for welcoming me! Greetings, Micà
Micà <brandlm@muenster.defoo>
Münster, Germany - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 10:47:37 (PDT)

Lovely pics as usual, Claire. That Valmont one is just *gorgeous*. LOL Georgiana! The hair looks just fine and is a DEFINITE improvement over the lack of any 'do whatsoever in GQ.

I also noticed in today's Best Buy flyer that the DVD version of "Dogma" is listed as being released on May 2nd (price $19.99) along with "Galaxy Quest". I thought the DVD release date was moved out to the 23rd, or am I mistaken?
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Sunday, April 30, 2000 at 10:03:28 (PDT)

Those accessing CPP on the no sound page please note it has not the latest update now showing on the sound page, as I do not have remote access to this ISP.

If you need to access the no sound page specifically the new address for this week is
http://home.freeuk.net/sc.i/Clairp.htm
Claire
somewhere different to usual!!!!, - Saturday, April 29, 2000 at 23:46:45 (PDT)

Georgia, try Claire's no sound page--it is working fine for me.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Saturday, April 29, 2000 at 23:27:46 (PDT)

I havent' been able to access Claire's picture page for the past three days. I mean, I get through all right, and the music plays, but it's blank, and only some of the words appear on the screen. It also says that the page cannot be accessed because the connection to the server was reset. Anyone else having this problem?
Georgia
Anaheim, Ca USA - Saturday, April 29, 2000 at 18:44:56 (PDT)

After watching and listening to the director's commentary on Dark Harbor,,I now do not feel quite so repelled about the end scene in the movie. According to the director, the two actors were really quite nervous about doing the intimate scene, but after much deliberation and concentration they pulled it off quite well. I guess we, as viewers don't appreciate what an actor has to put himself or herself through in order to make a scene believable. And knowing how Alan Rickman does not do things half way, I can marvel at the strength this actor has. Also the diving scene from the boat is another example of what an actor puts himself through in order to make everything run smoothly. The director stated the water was SO cold that it was medically unsafe and after the dive, Alan was removed from the frigid water immediately to a boat with heaters and was covered in warm blankets. Any more than 8 seconds in that water and he would have been in serious trouble. And after all that, he did the scene again. Alan is truly a professional.
Blackrose <blackros@telusplanet.netfoo>
Edmonton, AB canada - Saturday, April 29, 2000 at 11:56:44 (PDT)

I've just found time to watch DkH this afternoon. "OH MY WORD" 8:D I have to say I sat open-mouthed and aghast at the ending. I know it was probably really obvious to a lot of you (and in reflection was to me too) but all I kept thinking to myself was, "He isn't, is he ? Oh yes, he is !"
Catherine <catherine.bowles@virgin.netfoo>
Yorkshire, England - Saturday, April 29, 2000 at 07:57:19 (PDT)

(General disintegration with everyone talking again. Somewhere in there, one of them thanks AR, ET and PL for being on the show).
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Saturday, April 29, 2000 at 00:43:38 (PDT)

Great sleuthing again, Magda. AR's looking good. I would have expected some wacky hair given the film's subject matter... I guess we have to wait and find out.

Super news there in the Daily Mail, Catherine! Thank goodness the rumour mill is beginning to move on AR again! We'll all have to keep our eyes and ears pealed for more news?!
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 18:40:52 (PDT)

In today's Birmingham Post, another Galaxy Quest review, describes Rickman's character as "pompous Brit luvvie Alexander Dane" and concludes:

And next thing you know, the cast . . . are having to play their characters for real. At which point it all becomes a bit like, well, a Star Trek episode, except with jokes about TV sci-fi cliches while the cast winge about their lot (cleavage-enhanced Weaver bitches that all she ever had to do was repeat the computer's lines and give interviews about her boobs, Rickman's luvvie moans about no longer being taken for a serious thesp) before finding their true inner heroes. Not exactly paced at light speed, but there are enough gleeful performances and affectionate send-ups - especially when a Trekkie style fan has to save the day by explaining the ship's technical specifics to Taggart - to keep the fun at at least warp factor 4.
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 18:34:09 (PDT)

Thanks for the Brit Films link, Magda.
Must say, Sandy, that, whatever the color, the hair looks like a welcome antidote to the Galaxy Quest do.
Rickman and Stevenson together again--and in Beckett to boot! How luscious.
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 18:26:11 (PDT)

According to a site called FILM RELEASE SCHEDULE, Blow Dry will be released August 18, NY and LA only, and August 25 (wider).
Georgiana (do I see more travels in my future?) <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 18:20:48 (PDT)

I just found this in today's Dail Mail : "Watch out for Juliet Stevenson and Alan Rickman, who are reuniting on screen for the first time since they starred in Anthony Minghella's picture Truly, Madly, Deeply a decade ago. Minghella plans to direct them, and possibly Kristen Scott Thomas, in a TV adaptation of Play by Samuel Beckett. "The actors perform in urns, which is how Beckett wrote it," Mr Minghella told me before he decamped for a holiday." If this does get off the ground it'll certainly be interesting :-)
Catherine <catherine.bowles@virgin.netfoo>
Yorkshire, England - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 14:16:59 (PDT)

Hi all, just a few comments: 1) Great website, Sally! Fausta will need to update her links page if she hasn't already.

2)Barbara & Sally: I totally agree with your comments from the Belfast Telegraph reviewer, and may I add a PPHHHTTTT!!!!! as well ;-) Some people have NO sense of humor, I swear.

3)You're welcome Georgiana and thanks for the additional reviews you posted on GQ, which are very positive.

4)It seems that AR's hair looks very dark in the picture from the Brit Times link for Blow Dry, or it could just be the lighting....
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 14:01:41 (PDT)

Apologies if this has been posted before. From the Videoflicks review of GQ: "As for the cast, well here we have something special. Alan Rickman gives his second great comedic performance of the year. His first as a sexless angel in Kevin Smith's Dogma and now we have Dr. Lazarus. Essentially a cross between a Klingon and Spock, Rickman always ends up being the second banana and has no problem expressing how he feels about that. The depressed manner in the way he handles himself, as well as the anger that rises when a fan asks him to say his one and only catchphrase, is a twisted joy to behold." For more on the film, go to http://www.videoflicks.com/recentnews/galaxyquest.htm.
Nancy R.
CA USA - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 13:32:57 (PDT)

At the risk of sounding like an art snob (which I seem to be, now that I think about it,) David Shrigley strikes me as a particularly (prat-icularly?) chauvinistic artist. The more I think about that painting, the more I realise how anti-feminist and awful it is. And as for the posters---well, I don't think I have enough bile inside me to describe my thoughts on that. Then again, if you don't use your gallbladder enough, it will shrivel up on you....
Julia
Calgary, Canada - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 12:48:18 (PDT)

The "Mesmer" DVD is $17.49 at amazon.com, $17.99 at reel.com, with a release date of May 24. It is said to be a "director's cut"--not clear if this is same as or different than the video previously released.
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 12:34:58 (PDT)

I found the most detailed information yet about Blow Dry. Go to Brit Films and about halfway down the page, you'll find BD; click on "more" at the end of the cast line. It will take you to a page with the synopsis of the movie and a picture of AR and Natasha Richardson. AR's character is named Phil.
Magda
Canada - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 12:25:50 (PDT)

Sorry for the spelling errors in that message, put it down to too much work and not enough play. And in case 24/7 is confusing, that's 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I would also suggest you use their UPS mailing options, as I ordered something from them a few months ago and waited almost a month before a lame pigeon limped up the driveway dragging my order.

Anne
Anne <ahard73977@aol .comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 11:37:31 (PDT)

For the one or two of you who stil don't have your very own copy of 'Mesmer', it is now available in VHS or DVD format from 'The Video Collection.'

They have a web site, www.videocollection.com or they can be reached by 'phone at 1-800-538-5856, 24/7.

The price is $24.99 for eeither format.

Anne
Anne <Ahard73977@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 11:31:17 (PDT)

From today's (Newcastle) Journal:

Spoofs are notoriously difficult to get just right but Galaxy Quest sets its comedy phasers to stun and delivers one belly laugh after the next, simultaneously celebrating and mocking the stereotypes of the Star Trek universe. No moon rock is left unturned by screenwriters David Howard and Robert Gordon: Fleegman's burgeoning paranoia that, as the extra cast member, he'll be the first to bite the spacedust when the crew beams down to a hostile planet; Commander's Taggart's innate ability to lose his shirt.

Allen is his usual gregarious self, pitching Nesmith as an egotistical showman who, beneath the wisecracks, is really a decent guy, and Weaver has a ball as the sole female cast member.

Rickman scene-steals like a pro, evincing the RSC-trained Brit consumed with frustration that his screen career amounts to little more than an ill-fitting latex face-mask.

The special effects are sensational [putting to shame a number of recent sci-fi epics] which all adds up to a ridiculously entertaining journey to infinity and beyond.
Georgiana (italics added)
Seattle - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 10:02:03 (PDT)

From today's Independent, following on a negative review of "Scream 3."

Irony is also the prevailing mode of Galaxy Quest, a spoof on Star Trek and its fanatical followers. Tim Allen plays the one-time space commander of a cancelled TV series who leads his co-stars where they have boldly gone too many times before - namely, Galaxy Quest conventions, where they bitch at one another backstage and moan about the careers they might have had. The cast are surprisingly game, notably Sigourney Weaver as the blonde crew member whose only function is to talk to the spaceship's computer, and Alan Rickman as a classically trained thespian mortified by his role as the humanoid science officer Dr Lazarus.

The fun starts when a group of space-suited weirdies buttonhole the "commander" with a petition; little realising that they are, in fact, an actual alien race named the Thermians, Allen and co are beamed up to their spaceship, which turns out to be an exact replica of the Galaxy Quest set. The Thermians have modelled their whole existence on the TV show (which they believe to be historical documents) and now want the commander and his crew to help save their civilisation from a tentacled spacelord bent on enslaving them. The comedy resides in the gap between the Thermians' perception of the GQ team as saviours of the universe and our knowledge of them as a bunch of clueless actors. Obliged to maintain the pretence, they have to deal with space technology ('there's a red thingy moving toward the green thingy") and the realisation that they're no longer dealing with the cardboard and plywood of a set: "You broke the bloody ship!" Rickman wails after Allen exceeds the galactic speed limit. It plies the same art/reality divide as Woody Allen's The Purple Rose of Cairo - think of Jeff Daniels pith-helmeted hero jumping into a getaway car and wondering why it doesn't start instantly - even if it gets nowhere near the same poignancy or invention. A palpable hit, all the same. GRAPHIC: Alan Rickman and Sigourney Weaver in 'Galaxy Quest', a spoof on; 'Star Trek' and its fanatical followers
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 09:46:03 (PDT)

From today's Daily Telegraph:

By Andrew O'Hagan and Mark Monahan
Galaxy Quest

IN THIS hilarious, clever movie Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver and Alan Rickman are a bunch of actors famed for playing astronauts in a TV series that has been cancelled. They now make a dismal living from the programme's huge cult following - which gathers at annual sad-case conventions. (These conventions are a real thing in the world, usually attended by people who can't get over the fact that they like Star Trek, all of which is brilliantly satirised here.) The actors come to be visited - in real time - by a race of aliens called the Thermians, who think the TV shows are real historical documents. The Thermians need "the crew's" help in space to defeat an evil enemy.

There's something in the air at the moment: film-makers are interested in that innocent period of early television drama and serials. George Clooney recently produced Fail Safe, a two-hour-long, live, black-and-white drama based on the ones he watched as a boy. And one of the most effective ideas in Toy Story 2 was about Woody's Roundup, a 1950s serial featuring one of the toys. Galaxy Quest fits into this knowing, reference-citing category: the creaky space programmes of one's youth are rich pickings, and Dean Parisot's film is hilariously right on the mark. This is a classic, self-referential Hollywood comedy, and it raises a question. Is there any part of popular culture that won't some day have its naffness recycled as comedy?
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 09:40:15 (PDT)

Miramax's presskit for its summer releases lists the upcoming Blow Dry, so it looks like an official return to the original film title.
Georgiana (yeah!)
Seattle - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 07:51:10 (PDT)

Well, Dark Harbor arrived yesterday and got popped into the VCR in 15 seconds flat. I think I'll have to watch it again. First impression, though, is five hands for AR, no more than two for the film. I thought the story line, sound and music, and camera work were all lacking. Some pretty incredible scenes, however, when AR is on screen...the man never ceases to amaze me.
LynnP
York, PA USA - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 05:49:30 (PDT)

I agree with you. Barbara! And I'm glad to see someone seeing GQ more than once... I must confess, I have seen it 3 times now - not jsut getting my AR fix, but its such a funny film and I still laughed, even the third time! This is pathetic, isn't it... I think it deserves every acolade out there, including No. 1 position in the DVD sales (thanks Magda for that gem!)

Thanks for your comments Barbara and Heather. I have corrected the guestbook and comments can now be seen. Bizarre... Thanks Heather for bringing it to my attention. I certainly will give your idea thought - this is just going to be such a monsterous site once it gets underway! Thank goodness I live a fairly quiet existance at present (which will hopefully change when I leave Sydney?!)
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Friday, April 28, 2000 at 00:13:24 (PDT)

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter. Welcome home Judy!Sally, what a great page-well done! I am very angry to read that piece of Trash from the Belfast Telegraph- Smart-ass pastiche, Sci-fi pop, Obvious Fun, Lucky old them.... I have seen this movie twice with my 15 year old and we both were doubled over with laughter. Maybe this paper is showing it's true BLUE spine. It will be nice to see Ruby Wax on the Logies this Sunday. bye!
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 23:06:45 (PDT)

"Good things come to those who wait." I waited, and finally, buy.com has the GQ VHS on sale at $15.99 plus shipping. Now, I am certain, Best Buy will sell it for $15.99 plus tax --about $18.00. Ah well, I can't be patient forever! :)
Ann Wagner <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
AZ USA - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 20:10:21 (PDT)

Sally, nice looking website. I tried to sign your guestbook though and the comments I wrote didn't show up. Thought you would want to know.
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Atascadero, CA USA - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 20:05:59 (PDT)

A few lines from a lengthy Galaxy Quest review in the 28 April (tomorrow's) Korea Herals:

. . .
Leaning more toward an imitation of Leonard "Mr. Spock" Nimoy than the actor's alter-ego, Rickman's character gripes about his typecasting as an alien and steadfastly refuses to utter his trademark phrase.
. . .
While hardly a cinema classic, "Galaxy Quest" serves up the kind of laughs and thrills that big-budget comedies often promise, but rarely deliver.
Georgiana
Seattle - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 17:55:47 (PDT)

Sorry, that link didn't work - try www.cybamuse.com/movieThemes/actors/arickman/index.htm. Now it should! Sorry again!
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Australia - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 15:37:22 (PDT)

Screw the Belfast paper! I thought GQ was megalifiously BRILLIANT! And not just because AR was in it because it is THE definitive best spoof ever made!

Um, err, I have put together my own online tribute to AR... Its at www.cybamuse.com/movieThemes/actors/acrickman/index.htm. Its the start of a much bigger website I have been mulling over for a long time, so its not as detailed or as warm and lovely as the sites you guys have. But, I would appreciate it if those of you with websites out there confirm that I do have you all listed in the related websites list, because I think you guys all have wonderful websites which are a much better dedication to AR than mine!

Thanks!
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Australia - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 15:35:47 (PDT)

1) Welcome, Mica! 2) You are welcome, Sandy. 3) Shrigley's finalist entry, up at the Beck's futurist site, is a drill bit making holes in wood, titled "I [heart] DRILLIN' HOLES," only upside down and backward.
Georgiana [Seems like a long haul for a short slide . . . IMHO.]
Seattle - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 15:07:39 (PDT)

Georgiana, thanks for the articles and info on the DVD of Galaxy Quest. It'll be great to see the extra scenes that didn't make it in the movie when it was released. I'm just curious to hear how AR will sound in Thermian :-)
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 14:39:45 (PDT)

Just read my own entry. Completely sorry that my english sounds horrible. Apologies from the middle of nowhere, Micà
Micà <brandlm@muenster.defoo>
Münster, Germany - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 14:02:28 (PDT)

Shalom everybody! I just stumbled over this guestbook and of course I don´t have to tell how much fun enjoy this site!! Please don´t bite my head off, but I don´t think AR´s hair in "Dogma" was *that* bad... I haven´t seen all of "Dogma" yet (only some clips+trailers), coz I live quite a sleepy town (and it´s horribly catholic, too. Hope they´ll show it here at all) , and it´s not running here yet though it opened in Germany 2 weeks ago. Does anyone know if "Dark harbor" is out on video?? I only know of a DVD and tragicly I don´t own a DVD-player. Greetings from the middle of nowhere, Micà
Micà <brandlm@muenster.defoo>
Münster, Germany - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 13:57:38 (PDT)

From DVDFILE.com are features included on the Galaxy Quest DVD: As for the special features, first up is the 10-minute featurette GalaxyQuest: On Location In Space. Like most promotional features of this sort, is is geared towards those who haven't seen the film, and features brief interviews with most of the cast and crew, as well as some behind-the-scenes, CGI and makeup effects footage. Given the history of the science fiction shows it parodies, as well as the inventive visuals and effects, a more substantial documentary would have been welcome. But as far as promotional featurettes go, it is fairly entertaining.
Also included is a section entitled From The Cutting Room Floor, which features 7 deleted scenes (or snippets of scenes) in 2.35:1 non-anamorphic widescreen and 2.0 stereo. There is some really funny stuff here so this is definitely worth watching, and DreamWorks has kindly included the option of watching the scenes individually or straight through. Since just about all of this cut footage is good, my only guess is that it was cut for time and pacing more than anything else. Perhaps an alternate commentary by the director or some text explaining the scenes and why they were cut would have been a nice addition.
Georgiana
Seattle - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 13:45:10 (PDT)

From Newcastle Chronicle & Journal Ltd, EVENING CHRONICLE (Newcastle, UK), April 26, 2000, Intergalactic comedy quest, by Gordon Barr

GALAXY QUEST [PG]
It was perhaps fitting that I watched the preview screening of this film ensconced between two Trekkies. The looks of glee on their faces as they prepared to indulge in a sci-fi fest were more frightening than any alien I've ever witnessed in the Star Trek series. More frightening, though, was the look of glee on MY face at the end of the movie. Usually, I come away from a sci-fi flick with an "Oh, well, that was watchable" sort of attitude. But this movie, a spoof of all things Trekkie and the likes, had me in stitches. [cut plot exposition] Sigourney Weaver, in blonde wig, is the show's sex goddess, while Alan Rickman is the "serious" actor who believes he could be doing so much better for himself. All in all, it's a glorious spoof movie that, while taking jibes at the likes of Star Trek and its followers, never does it maliciously. It's great fun entertainment all the way - and Weaver is something of a comic revelation.
Georgiana
Seattle - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 10:11:46 (PDT)

From Belfast:

Belfast Telegraph, April 27, 2000, HEADLINE: Movie Verdict, BYLINE: With Una Bradley

Galaxy Quest

THE current penchant for 'irony' appears boundless. Where will it end? Must every film nod knowingly to all that has gone before, which in turn, nodded knowingly etc. etc? There are so many reference points in Galaxy Quest it's surprising it retains any entertainment value. First of all, there's the Star Trek spoof. So we have the cast of a long -running television series, now defunct, making millions out of nostalgic merchandising and cult status. Then there is the Thermians, a 'real-life' race of aliens who have modelled their existence on the TV show ... how post-modernist. And then there's the Thermians' struggle with a neighbouring universe, a war which only the Questers can save, a la Star Wars: The Phantom Menace. And so it goes on. The semantic ricocheting is all very clever - but so what? Surely anyone with half a brain could string together a smart-ass pastiche of sci-fi pop culture over their lunchbreak? Look underneath the nerdy intelligence and there's very little, save for the obvious fun the cast have. Lucky old them.
Georgiana
Seattle - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 10:06:46 (PDT)

(continuando, Chelo),
Cinefutura tiene un articulo sobre El Invitado de invierno.

(ALl this means that the problem with finding films that have been dubbed into Spanish is that at times the translators in Spain use one title, & the translators in Latin America use a different title. Thank you for your forebearance, y'all!)
Fausta <emma-mail@mailexcite.comfoo>
USA - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 06:33:14 (PDT)

Hola Chelo,
El problema que uno encuentra al buscar los titulos de peliculas traducidas es que a veces la pelicula la traducen con un titulo en Espana, y con otro en Lationamerica. Sin embargo, aqui en los EEUU (region 1 de VHS) se consiguen, en las peliculas que Alan Rickman ha actuado:
Doblada al espanol:

Sense and Sensibility, (Sensatez y sentimientos, o Sentido y sensibilidad), en DVD.

La pelicula que el dirigio, The Winter Guest, El Invitado de invierno, fue doblada cuando la estrenaron en el 1998.
Fausta <emma-mail@mailexcite.comfoo>
USA - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 06:28:24 (PDT)

I wonder if someone of you coul tell me how can I find AR films. My problem is that I can't find out the tittles in spanish. If somebody knows those tittles, please let me know. Thank you
Chelo Vela <chelovel@wanadoo.esfoo>
Madrid, Spain - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 02:00:39 (PDT)

Fausta, yo también he intentado contestarte, pero ha sido imposible. ya conocía la página de Sensatez... Gracias. Una de las cosas que más me gustan de AR es que en cada película es una persona distinta, quiero decir que con la misma cara, con la misma expresión de cara, es una persona distinta. No sé si me entiendes; ya sé que todos los actores tiene siempre su misma cara, pero AR cambia desde dentro, es distinto en cada papel. Según veo en este guestbook, la inmensa mayoría de la gente que escribe es de USA o Australia. Espero que otros hispano-parlantes se animen y escriban algo. Gracias, otra vez
Chelo Vela <chelovel@wanadoo.esfoo>
Madrid, Spain - Thursday, April 27, 2000 at 01:56:40 (PDT)

Back from the UK and had a wonderful time! Saw Galaxy Quest on the flights to and from and was a great way to while away 22 hours. Have to add my vote for ABBA as one of my favourite films, loved Uncle Vernon!
Judy <judy1@one.net.aufoo>
Sydney, NSW Australia - Wednesday, April 26, 2000 at 16:57:27 (PDT)

From a lengthy review of Galaxy Quest in 23 April 2000 (Scottish) Sunday Herald:

An entertaining romp, the film is a must see for sci-fi buffs with a sense of humour or anyone with a taste for the ridiculous. The cast are all excellent, but Rickman is superb as the hate-filled and bitter typecast thesp, desperately trying to retain some dignity with a prosthetic rubber lizard glued to his head. Though not the most original premise (the plot bears a striking resemblance to Three Amigos), the movie is great fun and worth watching if only for the sly digs at Star Trek.
Georgiana
Seattle - Wednesday, April 26, 2000 at 10:36:19 (PDT)

*Ahem* (Throat clearing sounds.) Galaxy Quest has moved into Number One position as most popular dvd on order at Amazon. (Pause for cheers to die down.)
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, April 26, 2000 at 07:52:49 (PDT)

Ann Wagner, see also the recommendation regarding God's wardrobe needs for more Wright-isms. And isn't diversity wonderful? I adore "An Awfully Big Adventure"--I find it a complex tapestry of a film.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Wednesday, April 26, 2000 at 07:12:33 (PDT)

Spew! I thought I had checked that link! Take II...

Judas Kiss is going to be showing at Palace Cinemas in Melb/Syd, starting June 8. You can check it out at the palace cinema website. Picture of Emma Thompson but no AR.... Suspect it will be a short season!

Thanks Suzanne for fixing the italics!
Sally <cybamuse@yahoo.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, April 26, 2000 at 06:59:18 (PDT)

Judas Kiss is going to be showing at Palace Cinemas in Melb/Syd, starting June 8. You can check it out at the
Sally <cybamuse@yahoo.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, April 26, 2000 at 06:58:29 (PDT)

Italics fixed.
Red's my favorite color...
Suz (D.o.C.)

egads! Have I messed up the html??? Suzanne - please, delete my post or close the ialics after London Register! Sorry about that! Could have been worse I guess - could have made everything red...

What is AABA???? Oh.... An Awfully Big Adventure... What a dreadful movie - sorry, I can't muster up the enthusiasm to watch that again - even to see AR half naked! Its just to awful a film! I think the Brits should steer completely away from making anything about post-WWII Britain because absolutely everything I have seen is drab, grey and listless - which is why, I guess, they called it The Great Depression...
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 21:43:44 (PDT)

Agreed, Georgiana, about the similaritiy of Steven Wright and David Shrigley, esp. the poster for the lost pidgeon! LOL!
*&* Ellen, a check will go into the mail tomorrow, for a little more than the cost of the tape. If it isn't sufficient, I also have Brent Spiner photos . . . :)
I am winding up at school (for better or worse!)and I will be typing furiously for the next ten days -- only breaks will be for good coffee and a haircut! And maybe a little TMD or AABA . . .
Ann Wagner <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
az USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 21:08:28 (PDT)

For those of us overseas and frustrated that we can't buy the American DVD's of our fave AR films that haven't been released o/s... A nice survey in the London Register by Jim Bottoms of Understandings and Solutions says that 70% of DVD players in Europe are modified to view American (Zone 1) DVD's and the Europeans have no intention of waiting for the DVD's to be released for their zone. He reckons that this (stupid) zone rating will fade out with DVD's eventually... I hope so! I am still waiting to see Mesmer, Jk, DhK...
Sally <cyabmuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 20:02:10 (PDT)

Just saw DkH. It's much better than JK, (which doesn't take much.) As usual Alan steals the show. When he's off screen it's pretty slow. If you haven't seen it yet, DON'T read the "spoilers" posted a few days ago. I had no willpower, ignored the warning, and read them, and it really does spoil the end of the movie. Otherwise, slow witted that I am, it would have caught me completely by surprise.
Karen
USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 19:17:52 (PDT)

very similar to Mr. Shrigley's work. Glad to know that Mr. Rickman enjoyed my book, since Callahan and Shrigley are "birds of a feather"..........
Donna
USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 14:06:15 (PDT)

I sent Mr. Rickman a copy of one of John Callahans books-for anyone not familiar, they are
donna <pdxdonna@aol.comfoo>
USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 14:03:18 (PDT)

I wonder [Claire] . . .
Georgiana
Seattle - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 13:16:55 (PDT)

Amazon.co.uk mentions The Far Side in discussing David Shrigley, cartoonist. Rather than (Seattle's own) Gary Larson, the posters remind me--I must admit--of Steven Wright.
Georgiana
Seattle - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 10:16:31 (PDT)

Totally off Topic, but I presume the aforesaid artist has reached double figures? ... In age that is, not poster sales.
Claire
- Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 10:11:46 (PDT)

Some Shrigley posters can be seen here.
Georgiana (thanks to my daughter the artist; no comment...)
Seattle - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 09:40:58 (PDT)

VCR alert--for those of you who have the Plex channel in your cable lineup, TMD is showing this afternoon at (I think) 3:10. Check your local listings.

Mary Anne
Beginning to recover from London, USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 05:03:15 (PDT)

It's nice to see that some people are really going all out to celebrate the Galaxy Quest DVD/video release:

Scores of UFO Enthusiasts Flock to Nevada Desert to Witness Planetary Alignment Fulfilling Ancient Prophecy To Entertain the Alien Aficionados and Celebrate the May 2 Home Video and DVD Release of ... Galaxy Quest DreamWorks Home Entertainment Unveils the World's First Alien Beacon and Screens 'Galaxy Quest' Under the Stars on May 4

Story Filed: Monday, April 24, 2000 9:02 AM EST

GLENDALE, Calif., Apr 24, 2000 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- On May 5, 2000, Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Mercury and Venus will align with our planet, the sun and the moon for the first time in 6,000 years -- an astrological phenomenon that some believe will create a vortex in outer space and allow extraterrestrial life to visit earth. Psychics, astrologers, pyramid experts, prophesiers of the apocalypse and Nostradamus all predict that the extraordinary planet configuration will bring chaos to earth.

On the eve of this historic five-planet alignment, masses of UFO enthusiasts donning intergalactic costumes will converge upon the world-famous Little A'Le'Inn, located on the Extraterrestrial Highway (Highway 375), near the military's Groom Dry Lake base (known to conspiracy theorists as "Area 51"). To mark this historic event and celebrate the May 2 home video and DVD release of the $70 million hit comedy film Galaxy Quest, DreamWorks Home Entertainment will dedicate of the world's first alien beacon -- a giant flying saucer emitting a powerful beam of light into cosmos to welcome all inter-galactic and terrestrial visitors. DreamWorks also will host an alien costume contest awarding TV/VCR combos and cash to the winners, followed by a free outdoor screening of Galaxy Quest to entertain the crowds as they await the prophesized alien arrivals.

The Little A'Le'Inn, a quaint motel and restaurant 115 miles northwest of Las Vegas, has long been a mecca for UFO believers because of its close proximity to Groom Dry Lake Air Force Base. The highly secretive government installation is rumored to house alien remains from an alleged UFO crash that took place in Roswell, New Mexico in 1947. Since then, the area has developed mythical status and continues to draw crowds of UFO aficionados and conspiracy theorists from across the globe.

Galaxy Quest, the fun-filled and action-packed space ODD-yssey features a stellar cast including Tim Allen (Home Improvement, The Santa Clause), three-time Academy Award(R) nominee Sigourney Weaver (Aliens, A Map of the World), Alan Rickman (Die Hard, Sense and Sensibility), Tony Shalhoub (A Civil Action), Sam Rockwell (The Green Mile), Daryl Mitchell (Home Fries) and Enrico Colantoni (Stigmata).

Magda
Canada - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 04:43:11 (PDT)

Back to Suchet(sorry I couldn't post last night, my husband was hogging the computer): "Suchet, 53 - best known to Americans as ...Poirot... - now stars on Broadway as the scheming Salieri in Amadeus. 'After I leave this show in June, I'll be doing a police series in London. It's a quiet, spiritual role very different from Poirot."
LynnP
anxiously awaiting her new auction copy of the Dark Harbor VHS in York, PA USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2000 at 04:17:30 (PDT)

Heather--he's made his rounds through quite a lot of the female cast in Emma. Not only Polly Walker and Juliet Stevenson, but also Greta Scacchi (sp?) in Rasputin and Phyllida Law in The Winter Guest. (Sorry if someone else already posted this in reply to you--I miss things here at times)
Barbara
Canada - Monday, April 24, 2000 at 21:45:36 (PDT)

Not what I would hang in my living room, but then, I would hang my own paintings. Still it's interesting to see AR's taste in art. go to www.becks-futures.co.uk and look around at the shortlist. David Shrigley is there. Amusing, and somehow I think David Bowie would like it too. Hmm, perhaps Dave and Al should meet up... In my Living room under Shrigley's painting!!!! :)
Julia Petrov
Calgary, Canada - Monday, April 24, 2000 at 18:46:19 (PDT)

And on the finished film front, the cover page of IMDB says that Galaxy Quest is the second hottest selling DVD on the Amazon site. And Amazon is selling it for only $17 US. Not bad for a DVD that's not out yet.
Magda
Canada - Monday, April 24, 2000 at 13:05:47 (PDT)

In this week's Entertainment Weekly, the cover story is summer movies. And not to keep you in suspense, on page 68 there is a two-inch blurb about the only summer movie that matters (with all due respect to those of you with children who monitor the studio's cartoon outputs as well): Blow Dry. According to EW, it "stars" AR. No pics, though.
Magda
Canada - Monday, April 24, 2000 at 12:30:00 (PDT)

While reading the (second, I think) Harry Potter book with my daughter again last night, we came to the part where it states that Snape "looked like he was thinking about canceling Christmas." Given that someone here speculated that AR might end up playing Snape, I found that amusing. I wonder if J.K. Rowling is an AR fan, and was envisioning him in the role when she wrote the book. Or maybe this business about "canceling Christmas" is a common idiom in Great Britain. (I had never heard such a thing before RHPOT, and wondered if this was a line AR ad-libbed.)
susan
USA - Monday, April 24, 2000 at 06:37:59 (PDT)

Off-topic: For David Suchet fans, there was a nifty little paragraph in yesterday's Parade magazine about his next project...unfortunately, I forgot to bring it with me to work. I'll try to post it tonight.

Hope y'all had a happy Easter!
LynnP
USA - Monday, April 24, 2000 at 05:46:45 (PDT)

Err, I have tried a couple of time to get into KelClancy's website and don't get beyond the index page - is anyone else having trouble??? KelClancy??? Help?
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Monday, April 24, 2000 at 02:23:37 (PDT)

Italics fixed.
All's well!
Suz (D.o.C.)

So sorry for the italics mistake!!!
Heather
USA - Sunday, April 23, 2000 at 23:42:39 (PDT)

Again off topic but related. I just watched Emma again and took notice this time that Juliet Stevenson and Polly Walker were both in it. How fun it was to see both of them in very different roles than they played in TMD and DkH, respectively.
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Atascadero, CA USA - Sunday, April 23, 2000 at 23:41:25 (PDT)

This tid-bit was in Matthew Wright's column in today's London Mirror: "Film star Alan Rickman - my former drama tutor, darlings - plans to buy works by artist David Shrigley after seeing them at the Becks Futures exhibition. " Do you of our English friends have any info on this exhibition?
Linda P.
USA - Sunday, April 23, 2000 at 20:31:01 (PDT)

I've also been lurking a while (like Kelley) and finally decided to post. I watched DkH twice this week. I guess I don't need to tell you guys how great AR is in this one. (Fausta was definitely right about him deserving 12 hands.) Only one problem -- I guess I am too stupid to actually figure out the plot, especially the ending. Could someone who has also seen this please e-mail me? Thanks a bunch in advance. This is a great site. I've learned so much reading all the guestbook archives. (It took me forever!) You all are truly an interesting and talented bunch.
Susanna <vernon@davlin.netfoo>
Also in, TX USA - Sunday, April 23, 2000 at 18:04:16 (PDT)

Happy Easter to all!

A little off topic, there is a write up on Norman Reedus (although no metion of DkH) at www.eonline.com under "Who in the Hell?".
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Atascadero, CA USA - Sunday, April 23, 2000 at 09:59:57 (PDT)

For some reason, after what seems like years of lurking in the shadows, I feel brave enough to step out and join in. I feel sure Mr. R. reads the guestbook...so, I feel shy. And then there are those who are saying"No way, HE dosent have time to read these lovely things people are saying on a daily basis".Anyway, I just want to tell every one happy "Easter yall".
Kelley <EKHYegua1@aol.comfoo>
Smalltownin, Tx USA - Sunday, April 23, 2000 at 05:12:32 (PDT)

Yes! Thank you Claire. We were using these abbreviations two years ago when we were eagerly anticipating Dark Harbor's arrival at the Seattle Film Festival .. DkH=Dark Harbor and DH=Die Hard. That should help clear things up a bit, Mary Anne!
Always happy to be of help, Barbara!
Kari ( .. who never remembers to post things all at once)
USA - Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 22:32:39 (PDT)

No, Claire? Really?! You don't think Hans and Alexis would get along? (grin)
Kari ( .. hmmm, not if "R" has anything to say about it!)
USA - Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 22:25:19 (PDT)

DH for Die Hard and DkH for Dark Harbor? I don't see the Grubers and Weinbergs mixing socially!
Claire
- Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 14:59:05 (PDT)

Hi, folks--

Our habit of referring to the films by initials got me thinking. You know how Truly Madly Deeply often becomes TMD here, and Sense and Sensibility becomes S&S, etc. If we persist in this, how are we to know the difference between Dark Harbor and Die Hard? *wink*

In all seriousness, though, I'd see references to DH and would automatically think of Hans, before I realized I was thinking of the wrong film! Oh, well, probably just the aftermath of jet lag . . .

Mary Anne
"Give me an occupation . . .", USA - Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 14:42:29 (PDT)

Agh! I'm sitting here with brand new DVD's of Sense&S, and DH, and the DVD player my husband ordered from MONTANA, (beautiful state, but we're in So. Calif.), didn't come yesterday like it was supposed to. So much for my Easter weekend. The suspense about DH is killing me, I've heard so much. Happy Easter to those of you who celebrate it. Karen
Karen
USA - Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 13:32:47 (PDT)

Chelo,
Trate de escribirle @wanadoo.es pero el mensaje no llega. Le invito a que visite mi pagina de http://emma_on_line.tripod.com/sensatez.html Sensatez y sentimientos. El resto de mi webiste, The Rickmanista Review, es en ingles, pero si quiere puedo traducir.
Gracias,
Fausta <emma-mail@mailexcite.comfoo>
USA - Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 13:09:55 (PDT)

Hi Nancy R., there was quite a discussion about AR and the Beckett production. Check the February GB (start from Feb 10th onward) out. And Claire-Jamie pics! Thank you! What a great way to start off the Easter weekend.
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 08:35:13 (PDT)

Another find: in the April 22 London Times, an article about the Beckett plays project (click the Britain link). No mention of AR, though. Wasn't there some discussion earlier in the guestbook about the possibility of his participating in this project?
Nancy R.
USA - Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 00:30:10 (PDT)

I was flipping through the new Video Collection catalog just now and came upon a familiar face: "Mesmer" is offered in VHS and DVD for $24.99. Nice photo of our guy on the cover (of the video; Eric Idle's on the cover of the catalog). Also, for Renie & other Shax/Branagh/Stewart fans, there's "Discovering Hamlet," a documentary about Derek Jacobi directing Branagh at the Birmingham Rep, narrated by Patrick Stewart. Phone number is (1-800-538-5856).
Nancy R.
CA USA - Saturday, April 22, 2000 at 00:09:37 (PDT)

Wish I lived in Britain and could have seen that Galaxy Quest the first 20 hours 'documentary' - I bet it would be hilarious! I hope they show it here (but on broadcast tv because for the most part, cable doesn't justify itself in Australia thanks to the stupid laws passed to satisfy two media magnates who wanted to stifle all competition... Much to the detriment of growth in this country!)

Any Americans coming to Australia in the next 4-6 months??? Reading about all these Rickman movies coming out on DVD and video there really, really, really makes me think I desperately NEED an American zone DVD player... Sigh. I really don't feel Australia is going to benefit at all with this zone thing for DVD's... Silly that we can ALL buy the DVD's but can't watch them!

I am keeping my eyes skinned for any roles being offered to AR, but there hasn't been anything in the movie gos for ages... ANyone know if Blow Dry was one of the Cannes films? After all, it was a popular script at Cannes last year, and AR was tied to it then - so how do we find out if his name is attached to any of the scripts this year at Cannes???????
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 23:39:19 (PDT)

From "Entertainment Weekly":

DARK HARBOR * Alan Rickman, Polly Walker (2000, Artison, 81 mins., R, also on DVD). The brevity of this talky tingler, in which Rickman and Walker's marriage falters after they encounter a young drifter (Norman Reedus) while on vacation, stands out as both its biggest asset and its primary problem. On one hand, even though the movie's single, nonsensical thrill comes at the very end, you've only got to wait 81 minutes to see it. Then again, more of Rickman's always masterful duplicity would've been nice. C+ -Joshua Rich
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 18:32:20 (PDT)

Sue, I sympathize with what you've said about "Dark Harbor." While truly impressed by some of what was put on film when I first saw it in Maine, I felt that the film overall did not work, but for slightly different reasons. One is that the situation alone screams "Deathtrap," so the ending is not a surprise. Another you touched on--what was the attraction David felt for the young man? However, I suggest that you try it another few times. There is a subtlety in the acting that makes it eminently re-watchable, and the time spent doing so quite rewarding--again, beyond the obvious. At least, I found that one quickly gets over the disappointments in the plot and comes to truly enjoy the art of getting there. It is a finely crafted piece, with a lovely one-act play near the end ("Shut, shut," etc.) and contains numerous "Rickman moments" that I can now only view as small (and not so small) presents, neatly wrapped, to his fans.
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 18:24:27 (PDT)

Caution--spoilers below... Just saw DH...sigh. Rickman was good, but I felt the film was "much ado about nothing much"... Basically, the film never established for me (despite the director's commentary) why murdering the wife was necessary. Unlike the restrictive 50's in Diabolique or the not yet open 60's and 70's for Deathtrap, today's era gives everyone, including these two so-called "prisoners" lots of options. David is a Boston lawyer--even if he divorces Alexis and loses "her" money, he should be able to make a very decent living, enough to support himself and his new lover. And, in an open society, where "Will and Grace" is a top rated series, what's to keep David from just walking away from Alexis, setting up a law office across from Hahvahd, and living discreetly or not with his new love. We also never really get a sense of the reason for David's attraction to this particular lover. I was waiting for the predictable demise of Alexis to see how the new relationship between the lovers would develop and got the door "slammed" in my face just as things started to get interesting. All in all, a cliched script, that almost had me waiting for the third act in which a young Columbo (pre-Peter Falk's smirking "in on the joke" performance) would try to corner the two and especially go head to head with Alan in a dramatic denouement. BTW, I also wish Close My Eyes had followed its chemistry. There was none, in my book between Alan's character and his wife, and little between brother and sister...but boy did Alan and the brother strike some sparks with each other on that confrontational boat ride as well as other scenes. IMHO.
Sue Zen
Just an opinion, CA USA - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 17:17:03 (PDT)

Joe, as in "an especially fishy character, aspiring to be undisputed ruler of the sea"? Hmm...
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 15:41:54 (PDT)

Sorry if someone has already written this information. Amazon has Galaxy Quest for $16.19 (pre-order for May) for the DVD and $17.98 for VHS
Barbara
Canada - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 14:50:51 (PDT)

I want to give my thanks to all of you that make all of those wanderful pages about this great actor. I like Alan Rickman, of course, but here in Spain there is not any site, spanish site about him. I am thinking to make one, I would tell you the URL if I finnally do it. Sorry for my english, it is "rusty". Keep good work.
chelo vela <chelovel@wanadoo.esfoo>
madrid, SPAIN - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 12:53:15 (PDT)

Heather, I think he also turned down the part of Scar in The Lion King. That was a missed opportunity for him, doggone it! And for "Help, I'm a Fish!", I think he's playing the really intelligent fish named Joe.
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 12:39:34 (PDT)

The LA Times reviewer (Lisa Miller) really disliked "Dark Harbor." Review in 13 April edition:

Dark Harbor
Could a killer actually hinge a murder scheme on his ability to predict the victim's reaction to a series of complex situations? This incredible construct, replete with a trio of unappealing characters, ultimately sinks "Dark Harbor," a thriller set on an isolated island in Maine. It appears to have imitated the premise from 1982's spine-tingling comedy "Deathtrap," but failed to learn its successful tricks.
"Dark Harbor," is a serious film that is frequently unintentionally funny. Alan Rickman is cast as David, a middle-aged attorney unable to remember his last winning case, married to a lovely young heiress, Alexis Chandler (Polly Walker). An uneasy weekend spent at their cottage is interrupted by a young, unnamed drifter (Norman Reedus) who, over David's strenuous protests, stays for a while. The drifter claims to be an illiterate author in the habit of dictating to transcribers, persuading Alexis to pen his prose about wanting to "pack it all in" due to overwhelming depression.
Afterwards, she stupidly teaches him to separate the poisonous from the edible indigenous mushrooms. Such overt plot telegraphing is the probable reason distributor Artisan took this film direct to video following a few film festival screenings.
In a just world, Artisan's clever strategy would be rewarded with the dustiest video cases on the shelf.
Georgiana (must admit, I still love it!--not a great film, but great Rickman)
Seattle - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 12:20:04 (PDT)

Thanks, LynnP, for the commisseration, but it's Fausta having trouble at the "Help! I'm a Fish" site. My Mac handles it just fine--but I was disappointed to hear no dulcet tones... Does anyone know which character Mr. Rickman read? They have cute little character mini-bios up.
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 12:11:52 (PDT)

I didn't have any trouble downloading the larger Fish trailer - it took less than five minutes. But there was no sound!
Magda
Canada - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 10:53:44 (PDT)

Ack! Sorry...last post was meant for Fausta. (Sheesh.)
LynnP
PA USA - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 09:05:23 (PDT)

Georgiana, I had a similar problem with the Fish site. My confuser doesn't exactly crash - I'm on Windows NT here at work - but Netscape locks up for some reason.
LynnP
PA USA - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 09:04:26 (PDT)

Heather, there was also the Charles Dance role in "Last Action Hero"--I seem to recall something about a T-shirt saying "I'm cheaper than Alan Rickman." Generally, Mr. Rickman does not discuss rejected roles out of respect for the actors who took them. [I believe "Galaxy Quest" is less money at amazon.com--around $17, $18.]
Georgiana
Seattle - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 06:57:16 (PDT)

For any UK viewers, the Sci-Fi channel (on digital) is showing an hour documentary - "Galaxy Quest - The First 20 Years" tonight, at 8pm.
Kathleen
Essex, UK - Friday, April 21, 2000 at 02:22:05 (PDT)

How interesting Nancy, thanks.

I noticed in some searching I was doing that you can special order Galaxy Quest from Borders for $23.49 VHS or $25.54 DVD. Not bad prices??
Heather
Atascadero, CA USA - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 23:55:35 (PDT)

Heather, Lytton Strachey in "Carrington" comes to mind.
Nancy R.
USA - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 23:15:45 (PDT)

Just a question that came to my mind, does anyone know any roles that Mr. Rickman has been offered and turned down? Just wondering and thought it might be interesting to know.
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Atascadero, CA USA - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 22:24:42 (PDT)

Today's episode of Access Hollywood has a bit about Galaxy Quest (about 20 minutes into the show). They talked about the release of the DVD (in May) and how one of the alternative language tracks will be in... Thermian! LOL

Suzanne <SuzanneK@bigfoot.comfoo>
Hallettsville, TX USA - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 17:35:31 (PDT)

Block quote fixed.
Suz (D.o.C.)

Help, Doc!
Fausta
USA - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 16:44:32 (PDT)

Two things, Just received an e-mail from Andy, a Galaxy Quest fan from Germany who has a very nice site, http://members.tripod.de/andy03, all in German.

Also, Peter Lathan, from www.britishtheatre.about.com, sent the following

A note for those who will be in London over the Easter holiday:
The Crucifixion, from 'The Passion', will be performed free on the terraces of the National Theatre, this Saturday 22nd April at 12:30pm

And for those living in the UK:
The television adaptation of Terry Johnson's 'Cleo, Camping, Emmanuelle and Dick', under the new title 'COR BLIMEY!', will be shown on Easter Monday, 24th April, at 9.00pm on ITV. Many members of the original Lyttelton cast - including Samantha Spiro, Geoffrey Hutchings and Adam Godley - recreate their roles.

Just wanted to drop a line that the Help, I'm a Fish! site has now added sound to the introduction (sorry, couldn't resist). I was able to download the Quick Time teaser trailer, but please note: the smallest size is 6.1 MB and took roughly 1/2 hour on my 56K modem, so be prepared for a wait. Unfortunately, the VOICE is not on the trailer, but the animation looks pretty good. You will need Macromedia Flash, but the site does offer the download for it.
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 16:30:22 (PDT)

The oddest thing happened to me on my way home tonight. I was driving to the store to buy cat food, when I found myself pulling up and parking outside Blockbuster Video. "Okay, " I said to myself, there must be a reason for this, perhaps the car knows something I don't. I went in and on the previously viewed video table was a copy of Judas Kiss for $4.99. I remembered someone on the guestbook wanting a copy.. (hope not a PAL country, because VCR's are not $4.99) but so I brought it up to the cashier and she said.."Keep your receipt, in case there is something wrong with the tape." "Oh, I'm not going to watch it." I said. "What? Why?" "Because its terrible, well, not entirely terrible, just mostly terrible." I left her with no further explaination, so... Who wants this tape? E mail me, and they have 3 or 4 other copies, also at $4.99..
Ellen Sherman <writersherman@mindspring.comfoo>
peachtree City, ga USA - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 15:42:17 (PDT)

Oh poo 8:D Off to Cambridge tomorrow. Trust me to be a month late.
Catherine <catherine.bowles@virgin.netfoo>
Yorkshire, England - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 13:31:22 (PDT)

Thanks, Ellie! Can you share how the discussion went?
Georgiana
Seattle - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 10:27:13 (PDT)

Hello, from a wet and rainy UK. On 22nd March I attended a lecture given by the British director Richard Eyre. Alan Rickman was one of several British actors present. It looked like his companion was Rima Horton. It was the first time I'd ever seen AR close up. He is a strongly build man and has a bolder face than he appears to have on screen. Needless to say he has a wonderful voice and - as I'm sure all admiriers who visit this page would expect - is utterly charming and delightful. The lecture we'd attended generated an intellient discussion. Ellie, Cambridge University, UK
Ellie <es@ula.cam.ac.ukfoo>
Cambridge, UK - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 09:50:57 (PDT)

A Monday article in the Guardian, titled "Malice in Wonderland," reviewing "The Tenth Kingdom," has this to say about the wolf: '. . . and the big, bad wolf is, demonstrably, still a wolf. Particularly when he catches sight of Virginia, the heroine. "Tasty or WHAT!" It is difficult to convey in the modesty of print just how noisy a native New Yorker can be when he puts his mind to it. Memorably played by Scott Cohen, this well over-the-top wolf ("BORN TO GORGE!") is what you might call an Alan Rickman role. Or, put another way, damned hard luck on the hero.'
Georgiana
Seattle - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 09:34:44 (PDT)

A mention in Tuesday's "Telegraph" in an article entitled "Actor Denis Lawson first turned his hand to directing with his' nephew Ewan McGregor as his star. Now, he tells Matthew Bond,' he's caught the bug - and knows that success starts with a long lunch":

Having just completed an acting role in a BBC adaptation of Joanna Trollope's Other People's Children, he is happy with the dual role of actor-director and inspired by others who have successfully combined both jobs - "like my old pals Ian McDiarmid and Simon Callow, Alan Rickman and Ken... Damn, I've got a name block..." Kenneth Branagh, I suggest? "That's the one."
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 09:28:13 (PDT)

Hey sally, don't worry about JK, it may come to pay TV or somewhere else. I will be patient and watch for it.Heather, I only have VHS at present. Thank you so much Kari and Georgiana - DH looks so good and to all the great photo's Black rose, all these made my day. All you Ladies have great hearts and souls in providing all the infomation and video clips of AR here on Suzanne's Guestbook especially for someone like me who is still learning about this internet and computers in general. Thank you to you all.
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Thursday, April 20, 2000 at 00:04:58 (PDT)

Shoot! Sorry about adding the "g" to Rasputin!
Sally
- Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 23:50:51 (PDT)

Looking forward to Rasputing piccies, Blackrose - I LOVE that movie - definetely his best (and its inspired me to get the behemoth latest Rasputin book my Edvard Radvinsky to find out more about this fascinating historic figure...)

In a local Australian magazine (NW), Rachel Griffiths (of soon to be(?) Blow Dry fame) did (finally) make mention of appearing in Blow Dry - but merely to make the comment:(quote) "I just did this movie called Blow with Johnny Depp. And I did another film called Blow Dry (the film's now called Never Better). Maybe I'll do one more blow movie - Blow Job and that should finish the blow trilogy" (unquote). Ah well, I guess working with Mr Rickman didn't faze her much... (And I was defintely under the impression then film is back to being called Blow Dry!)
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 23:50:06 (PDT)

I've been reading the posts and gee guys,,thanks for all the nice compliments about the pics I put up. Sure didn't expect all the positive feedback. I will be removing the Closet Land clip and will replace it with a clip from Rasputin as I just got the video and will put up a few pics as well. As soon as I get the Dogma and Galaxy Quest videos, the pics will be up immediately.
Blackrose <blackros@telusplanet,netfoo>
Edmonton, Ab canada - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 21:35:47 (PDT)

I wish a blessed Passover tonight for our Jewish readers!
Ann W <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
AZ USA - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 20:06:24 (PDT)

From ABIX: Australasian Business Intelligence, April 6, 2000
HEADLINE: Look ma, no ears
SOURCE: The Courier-Mail

Alan Rickman's latest comic acting role is in "Galaxy Quest", screening in Australian cinemas from early April 2000. Rickman is a classically trained actor living in Kensington, London, with politician Rima Horton. Rickman has been active over the years in struggling to maintain the status of London theatre. His other film roles have included the creepy Hans Gruber in "die Hard"; a ghost in "Truly, Madly, Deeply"; the sneering Sheriff of Nottingham in "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves"; the politician Eamon De Valera in "Michael Collins", and a disdainful, neutered angel in "Dogma". The plot of Rickman's latest movie follows the lives of actors, weary from their work in the "Galaxy Quest" television series, yet still attending conventions to earn a living. When confronted by real aliens, the actors believe this to be just another paying job and end up fighting aliens in the depths of space. Rickman describes his character as the actor in the series who is the Spock character - an obvious spoof of "Star Trek". However, Rickman said that the Spock ears were used, so as to avoid the risk of being sued . . .
Georgiana (alas, the upload ends mid-sentence...)
Seattle - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 17:32:06 (PDT)

A review of "Galaxy Quest" in the Singapore Times, April 14, contains the following:

Alexander Dane (Alan Rickman) is maudlin over his promising career as a Shakespearean actor, which was finished once he became typecast as Dr Lazarus...[cut]

What makes Galaxy Quest so enjoyable is the fact that it works on several levels, so there is always something to engage the viewer.[cut]

Good acting anchors the film by bringing out the personalities of the characters behind the parts--and Rickman and company are persuasive as the actors whose lives were irreversibly changed by one role.

Georgiana
Seattle - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 17:25:42 (PDT)

Another site that has a tremendous amount of trailers and on-line scripts is Jo Blo's. It has the trailers for Die Hard, Michael Collins, Galaxy Quest, Dogma and RHPOT. I don't know if they're the same as Suzanne's but you might want to look.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 17:14:58 (PDT)

Yes, Sally, the first part of The View interview is just Emma and her Mum. But you'll understand the second part a lot better after seeing the first part.

Ann (and everyone else without sound), I'm sorry I don't how's a transcript for The View interview... yet. Any volunteers?

And thanks, Kari, for the Dark Harbor link!
Suzanne <SuzanneK@bigfoot.comfoo>
Hallettsville, TX USA - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 17:08:55 (PDT)

Ok, aussie AR fans - urbancinefile are now saying Judas Kiss will commence in Sydney and Melbourne on June 8 (sorry Barbara...). Better late than never! On the other hand - turning into a pretty good year for AR in Australia (in smaller movies) with Dogma, GQ and now JK all in the same year. Dare we hope DkH and/or Blow Dry will also be released downunder this year???

I can't belive Rachel Griffiths is currently doing the huge promo for Me, Myself, I in Australia - and not one mention of her potential upcoming film, Blow Dry! She didn't even mention it in one interview where they asked what else she was going to be seen in over the next year! She listed 3 others instead...

Heather, I am still on VHS (PAL) but seriously thinking of obtaining an American DVD player that plugs into my computer - if anyone can recommend a good one (portable) I would be interested in hearing about it!

Thats a bummer, Ann W, on not having access to the realm of sound on the web. AR is absolutely charming and funny in the 'The View" interview - absolutely makes you green with envy that RH has spent most of her life with this wonderful man! If you can ever get access to download it, I recommend it. (Suzanne: I haven't downloaded the first part of The View - is that just Emma THompson and her mother?)
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 16:19:06 (PDT)

Probably North America only. It's a direct quote from the upcomingmovies.com site.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 16:05:47 (PDT)

Exactly how wide geographically is everywhere?

Claire
Probably not wide enough, sigh! - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 14:24:37 (PDT)

Well, talk about unfair! "Never Better" is opening on August 18 in New York and Los Angelos but on August 25 "everywhere else" (Ha! to that last bit). So we'll have to get reviews for a week before we see it.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 14:08:27 (PDT)

Blockbuster's video clip from Dark Harbor is from the promotional video and is different than the one that comes on the DVD. A nice clip. Thanks, Kari!
Georgiana
Seattle - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 12:38:49 (PDT)

Barbara - a short trailer clip of Dark Harbor can be found at the following site:

http://www.blockbuster.com/mv/detail.jhtml?PRODID=204736&CATID=500

Enjoy!

Kari
USA - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 12:30:31 (PDT)

Sally and Barbara are you guys VHS or DVD? Let me know.
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Atascadero , CA USA - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 10:18:13 (PDT)

Thank you, Sandy.
Georgiana
Seattle - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 09:16:21 (PDT)

Double deleted.
No prob.
Suz (D.o.C.)

Oh my, double entry!!! sorry.....
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 00:41:11 (PDT)

Hello again. I would like to thank Black Rose for her wonderful photo's of Dark Harbour! Anything on this film is greatly appreciated. Also to Claire - great photo's once again. Welcome home Mary Anne I hope you had a great trip - I went to U.K. in 95 and found it to be beautiful especially the countryside. So different to the Gold Coast.London is a great place to shop and go to the theatre, if you can afford it. I have been reading the guestbook and I agree that sometimes it can be tedious waiting to see some of AR's work new and old especially here in Australia, However I am just grateful that I have some of his movies to watch and I am content. Hopefully in the future these difficult ones (DH, JK) will be aired somewhere. In the mean time, I will enjoy AR's RHPOT and be glad he is out there doing his best, as we all know. Easter will be with us in a couple of days and I hope all of you have a great and peaceful one. Bye.
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Wednesday, April 19, 2000 at 00:38:18 (PDT)

Dear Ladies, Thanks for trying to be helpful, but, other than taking a set of headphones to school and *trying* to get a computer that's available, I cannot watch or listen to the video files. Let's say that whatever cannot be justified as a business expense isn't bought (or downloaded) for the computer. And then there's the fact that I have to file the owner's manuals in *my* files (read: in my desk) or they're quickly lost! So, unless there's something really special in the downloadable files -- something that's worth transcribing -- I'll have to pass. P.S. I had the opportunity to but the Dogma SD CD -- is it worth keeping?
Ann W
AZ USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 19:45:53 (PDT)

Thanks, Sally (and you're welcome!)!

It's probably not the same for all computers, but here's how I save QuickTime files on mine:
Right click on the link of the file you want to save.
Then click on "Save Link As" from the popup menu.
The "Save As" window will then appear, where you can choose the folder you want to save it in.

This will work for just about any file you want to save on your hard drive... Except for RealPlayer files (I haven't figured that one out, yet).

Thanks for the great Dark Harbor photos, BlackRose & Stezi!
Suzanne <SuzanneK@bigfoot.comfoo>
Hallettsville, TX USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 19:12:29 (PDT)

I found the videogram interview with AR on The View on this, Suzanne's very own website (thanks, Suzanne!). She has compiled a brilliant, comprehensive list of Quicktime, Real Player and Videograms of AR movies and stuff. It can be found at http://www.selectrec.net/alanrickman/video-gallery/ARvideo.html.

I have been patiently downloading the videograms (again, thanks Suzanne) - is there anyway to save Quicktime movies to my computer so I don't have to download 7Mb or whatever to loose it all the moment I logoff???
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 17:56:31 (PDT)

Hello, AR was on "The View"?!! When was this? Was it online, which means I shall have to ask /plead for a transcription. Is there an online site where I can read the transcript? Probably only a "passable" interview -- more questions about the Sherriff, poor Alan! :) Although, I trust that Star appreciates a witty, sympathetic, charismatic man!
Ann W <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
AZ USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 17:28:12 (PDT)

Ah well Stezi, at least you don't have to worry about missing out on Blow Dry - The Netherlands is the only other country with a release date at this stage (September 28, 2000). Lucky you!
Sally <cyabmuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 17:16:54 (PDT)

Georgiana, here you go!

Welcome back Mary Anne!

Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 16:29:12 (PDT)

I can't seem to get beyond Black Rose's first page--no Dark Harbor pics. Could someone please supply the URL? Thanks.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 15:22:26 (PDT)

First, Black Rose, thanks for the Dark Harbor pics. I finally received my Dark Harbor DVD and now I've updated my Alan Rickman page with DVD pics of Dark Harbor. You can almost use them as wallpaper. Enjoy Alan! About the poll: I am so sorry Alan didn't make it (even for Gabriel Byrne). Maybe next time we should vote more often! Now I am waiting to get the Dogma DVD (May as they say) and the Judas Kiss video. I haven't seen both of them for in Holland they don't show many movies of Alan (%*#%#!!!!)
Stezi <stezi@wxs.nlfoo>
The Netherlands - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 14:38:08 (PDT)

Now it's a link. :-)
Suzanne (got my vote in)

Sorry, I tried something and it didn't work. The web address is http://people.aol.com/people/50most/2000/poll/index/html

Vote Away!!!
Heather
USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 09:32:34 (PDT)

Hi everyone. Let's see if we can get Alan Rickman on People Mag's 50 most beautiful people list for 2000. We all know he's beautiful so let's tell the world.

Cast your votes (as many as you want) at

Sorry I don't know how to make it a link maybe Suzanne can do that. We only have until May 5th to get him on the list.
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Have already voted 20 times, CA USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 09:30:58 (PDT)

I read an interview in which AR said he did a lot of research to do the role of DeValera. He said he felt it was very important when playing a real person to be as accurate as possible out of respect for the person and their family.(Isn't it just like AR to care about the family or a person he is playing) This movie impressed me so much that I read the biography of DeValera by Tom Pat Coogan. The movie used this book frequently as a resource and you can see that reflected in the move. Tom Coogan spent many years as a journalist for the paper which was founded by DeValera, although it was being run by DeValer's son at the time. After reading this book which included correspondence by DeValera I doubt anyone could have been truer to the man than AR was. This is a great movie in its own right and AR is spectacular in it. If you watch the part where DV give a speech to a thousands of people keep in mind that AR did this his first day of shooting and did not know he was to do this scene until he arrived on the set. What a proffesonal to be able to do such a scene involving so many extras without any warning! You can see what a great actor AR is in this film; but then we all knew this already, didn't we?
Ellen Woody
USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 07:17:55 (PDT)

Hi, folks!

Returned late Sunday night from my first trip ever to London . . . I'm dead tired and my feet are sore, but I had a wonderful time. One of the high points was meeting Claire (yes, Claire, I'm embarrassing you again), but practically every moment was a dream come true.

Major smile the first time I got on the Tube and was looking at the names of stops, one of which was "Rickmansworth." I'm sure my fellow Tube passengers must have been wondering what that big silly grin was about . . . 8-D

And yes, I watched closely in the Notting Hill area but alas, no "sightings." Probably just as well, as I would likely have passed out on the sidewalk.

So, to all the English Rickmaniacs, thank you for making me welcome in your country. I hope to return ASAP!

Mary Anne
Back at home, USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 05:39:03 (PDT)

This is a very nice place !
Protector 1uno <spavle@nightmail.comfoo>
Gospic, Li Croatia - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 00:54:01 (PDT)

Here, here, Magda!

Once upon a time, there may have been a reason for it all this cross zone stuff/marketing within a country. Now, with the www, its sheer stupidity! Blair Witch died a dismal death in Australia because it had been overhyped and The Sixth Sense (a far better movie) was released before Blair Witch. We continue to use 3.5" floppy disks and video's - why? Because we can reuse them! We can't record on DVD (although I gather that will change soon in America and Japan) so they haven't replaced every other means of backing up information as they probably should have done. But to compound that, the stupid companies come out with TWO types of DVD's (does the Beta vs VHS war ring a bell???)

And now, with the internet, we can all buy DVD's or video's anywhere in the world - but America gets them months to years ahead of the rest of the world. So what do we do? Plan holidays to America to buy a Zone 1 DVD player so we can watch movies on DVD long before they arrive in our country... (And might I add, 10% of Australia saw The Blair Witch before it was even released in the movie theatre because they bought the DVD from an online american company...)

Its time for the stupid, moran, narrow-minded marketers and company moguto start coming to grips -REALLY - with a global economy and what the CONSUMERs needs are. Any ideas on how we can accomplish this - and all so I can watch DkK, Judas Kiss and Memsmer witin a reasonable time frame????!!!
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 20:26:54 (PDT)

Would someone please explain why, if we're all in danger of being submerged by a world-wide cultural sameness, it's so hard to actually be submerged? I mean seven different kinds of dvd, vhs/pal and vhs/non-pal, and half the time his damn movies don't open on the same planet in the same century? Sheesh!
Magda
Canada - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 18:44:45 (PDT)

I am soooooo jealous! Last night as I tried valiantly to keep a connection to the internet open long enough to download The View interview with AR (I failed - I has to reconnect 5 times, and I only had 3 kb left to download at that point!), I came the pictures of a whole bunch of you who went a saw AR at a Borders bookstore in 97! Lucky, lucky you!

Thanks for the suggestion of renting JK, Fausta, but alas, it was never released in Australia (alongside DkH and Mesmer). I guess I am sitting on buying it right now simply because the $AUS is so unstable right now, I would be paying so much for it. Maybe the rumour that JK will be released in Australia in June will be true...

And, I have been back several times to visit Black-Roses (growing) collection of photos, and Ok, how AR appears in DkH is growing on me... Damn, he's such a nice person! (after watching The View interview...)
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 17:19:55 (PDT)

Nice review of Dark Harbor on Amazon.com: Dark Harbor Review
LynnP (still wincing at the VHS price...)
USA - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 12:21:34 (PDT)

There is a review of "Dogma" in the March issue of "Sojourners." Mr. Rickman is merely mentioned.
Georgiana
Seattle - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 09:52:47 (PDT)

Ah, Claire, the man in all his contemporary glory! As always, thank you very much.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle (at last!) - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 09:29:48 (PDT)

I hasten to add that I prefer M,O to DkH because of what I consider a flaw in the plot. Mr. R was in Magnificent form, in every meaning of the word, in Dark Harbor.
Fausta
USA - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 06:09:08 (PDT)

I heard the voice narrating a travelogue on Argentina this past week on the Travel Channel. No pictures, just lovely diction.
Katherine <kgreene_2000@yahoo.comfoo>
USA - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 06:08:33 (PDT)

Ack! I meant Dark Harbor, not Judas Kiss. See, I am still recovering...
LynnP, administering a dope-slap to herself
USA - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 06:03:53 (PDT)

Fausta, your taste and mine in AR's films seem to be pretty close. If I had any doubts, your last entry dissolved them!
LynnP
USA - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 06:01:45 (PDT)

Okay, that does it. Between Blackrose's pix and the comments here, I guess I'll have to break down and get a copy of JK. (Just for the record, based on BR's pictures, I thought he looked fantastic. So I have a thing for older men...)
LynnP
Still recovering from Friday's PE exam in Harrisburg, PA USA - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 05:59:48 (PDT)

Sally,
I didn't like Judas Kiss, but Georgiana did. Can you rent it before you purchase it?

Ann W,
You can see a perfect slide in Murder, Obliquely, which is my most favorite of all AR videos/films I've seen so far (with Dark Harbor running a VERY close second).
Fausta <emma-mail@mailexcite.comfoo>
USA - Monday, April 17, 2000 at 05:59:05 (PDT)

Heather, I had the VCR set to tape and (yes, I can program a VCR) have a nice copy of Eco-Challenge Part 1, so e-mail me if you still need a copy.
Georgiana (glad the return flight did not land in Sioux City for our little medical emergency..) <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Sunday, April 16, 2000 at 22:47:43 (PDT)

Egads! I am contemplating buying Judas Kiss here - is it worth it???? The comments/feedback isnt encouraging!

MC was good! I couldn't work out if AR spoke to 'concisely' though because thats how De Velara spoke or it was AR - does anyone know? It was all a bit before my time to remember listening to Irish presidents on the radio/tv... (Although Dev' lived a loooonnnggg time to be caught up in that uprising AND be president in 1966!)

And if we are fretting a little bit about AR's appearance, I would go by GQ which is his most recent film of date and I thought he looked damn sexy in that! Sans the hair, one was left to gaze upon his spectacular eyebrows, his hazel eyes, his smooth hands (how does he maintain such smooth hands with age??? Makes me want to wrap '20 years younger but look 10 years older hands' up in gloves right now and preserve them so they don't age more) and just his fine acting performance and charisma. He may have had some 'relapses' (due to the role?) I guess with JK (???) - and (I speak only for myself having seen Black Roses pictures) DH, but I think he looks verrrryyyy good in GQ...!
Sally <cyabmuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, April 16, 2000 at 19:04:25 (PDT)

Hi everyone. Last week I taped the second half of Eco-challenge and was hoping to tape the first half today but my kids were watching something and I forgot (shame on me!!!). My questions are: 1) Did they show the entire four hours today? 2)If it was just the first part, did someone tape it and can I buy them a tape to make me a copy of it? I haven't watched the second half yet because I wanted to watch the first part first.

Rented Bob Roberts, January Man and Michael Collins. The first two I saw but did not watch for AR the first times, so must watch again. I have never seen MC and can't wait.

Thanks all.
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Where the children were watching a movie, CA USA - Sunday, April 16, 2000 at 16:54:59 (PDT)

Lovely new pics, Claire and thanks Blackrose for yours as well! It's interesting to see the contrast of how he looks today compared to how he looked during the 70's. We should all age so gracefully.

Finally, on the subject of AR's accent in "Dark Harbor", it seemed to me that he was going back and forth between a New England accent (couldn't tell from exactly where) and his own-and Polly Walker was doing the same thing. Very distracting while watching.

Sandy-currently listening to the "Eco-Challenge". God, these people have moxie! <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Sunday, April 16, 2000 at 13:21:56 (PDT)

Yes, AR looks good in Blackrose's pics. I saw Judas Kiss (those of you who didn't, don't panic. It was pretty bad and AR actually had a lot less screen time than AABA, which wasn't so hot a movie either), and thought Alans face looked a bit florid. I thought, "Horrors, I hope he's not going to chub out on us!" But now I think maybe he was supposed to look like a man who drank too much too often. Can hardly wait to see DH. (A much better similar type movie to JK is "Body Heat", 198?, with William Hurt and Kathleen Turner.) Karen
Karen <kmccauleysb@yahoo.comfoo>
USA - Sunday, April 16, 2000 at 10:53:41 (PDT)

Double deleted.
D.o.C. (who enjoys *sliding* into Wonderland)

Ooops! Sorry about the repost. OK, so the graceful entrance in AABA wouldn't count because he was stepping. Another definition (my AIW reference) might be when you forget your cares and pressures and "slide" into wonderland. I remember the RH:POT scene. Thanks!
Ann <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
AZ USA - Saturday, April 15, 2000 at 21:13:42 (PDT)

Hi Ann! I believe a "slide" is when AR literally slides across the floor. One of my favorite scenes in RH is when he goes running down the hallway and slides right past his servants, grabs one man's cloak or scarf or something then throws it up in the air as he runs down the other hallway. He also slides in Die Hard when he discovers Mrs. McClane and orders the people to be sent to the roof. I expect others may list their other favorite slides after this... would be fun to remember them...
Maxine <maxinerose@prodigy.netfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - Saturday, April 15, 2000 at 21:02:00 (PDT)

OK, I've just re-read the FAQ and I'm curious: what is a slide and / or when does it occur? :) Is it something to do with following a white rabbit . . . ?
Ann W <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
AZ USA - Saturday, April 15, 2000 at 20:40:01 (PDT)

Just a reminder~ the Discovery Channel re-airs the Eco-Challenge tomorrow 2:00 pm Eastern Time. I won't miss it this time! :)
Neva
USA - Saturday, April 15, 2000 at 19:39:24 (PDT)

Thanks Caroline, for all of the info ;)on GQ. I can hardly wait until 5/2/00 -- not least because school will be almost over! I am preparing to "pitch" a theisis topic in an attempt to find a professor-mentor for next year. Strange that my stomach's tied in knots . . . must be all the Alan-watching I'd put off until recently. Yes, guys with good bones, great courage, wry wit, a gentle touch and kind-but-firm manners will never go out of style.
Ann
AZ USA - Saturday, April 15, 2000 at 12:11:57 (PDT)

I saw AR in "Antony and Cleopatra"two years ago in London, and he was great, I love the guy.... but.... I rented Dark Harbor last night and it was awful! It was a slow, slow moving ripoff of "Diabolique" and "Deathtrap," with no suspense for anyone who's seen those movies. (I figured out the ending in the first 10 minutes) And the flirting scenes between the wife and the shirtless drifter were appalling. She wears a cowboy hat, he dresses like Marilyn Monroe! Nauseating, not romantic. If you rent it though, keep an eye open for the continuity errors: At one point it's raining torrentially, the next moment the sky is clear. At the end, when he jumps off the boat, first it's noon, then when the camera angle changes, it's dusk. And which region of America did he pickup that American accent? It's a turkey
stephen robb <stephe1605@aol.comfoo>
Phila., pa USA - Saturday, April 15, 2000 at 07:57:45 (PDT)

Blackrose, I love your photos. Wonderful job!
Galaxy Quest is scheduled to open in the UK on April 28, but there will be a preview showing this Tuesday, April 18, as Caroline has posted on An Homage to Jason Nesmith. Caroline's done a great job with the Sci-Fi Channel GQ program information, and has listed as "coming soon to (her) page":

- my chance encounter with Alexander Dane outside Austin Reed's in Regent Street and his (unwarranted I feel) reaction to my asking whether Jason really is that handsome in real life.

I think Alan is aging beautifully,,and looks better and better, like an old vintage wine. I totally agree with the scary dye job in Dogma,,like a fright wig. Check this out: http://www.black-roses.net/arpics3.htm I played with a couple of black and whites, just to show the comparison in getting older. In the second pic, he looks like his own son, if he had one.
Blackrose <blackros@telusplanet.netfoo>
Edmonton, Ab Canada - Friday, April 14, 2000 at 22:10:14 (PDT)

I agree. AR looks great in DkH. I find he looks much better than the stills would indicate. IMHO he's aging really beautifully. A few wrinkles here and there are pretty sexy. Of course, I don't find them sexy on me but that's another story! The lighter hair looks miles better than the scary dye job in "Dogma". I'll admit it, I'll always find him gorgeous. I still found Olivier handsome in his final years. Great bones are always great bones.
A-m
LI, NY USA - Friday, April 14, 2000 at 19:01:59 (PDT)

:-) I'm only going by some stills - if it has taken two years for Judas Kiss to be even rumoured to be released in Australia, it could be a while before we see Dark Harbour down here! I'm sure to see a moving, dynamic AR in Dark Harbor is better than some photos any day!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Friday, April 14, 2000 at 18:02:00 (PDT)

Yes, Fausta, let me concur: a nice mature male figure in "Dark Harbor"...
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Grand Hyatt, the other Washington (DC) - Friday, April 14, 2000 at 11:03:19 (PDT)

Since I was reading the guest book top down I saw your info about the broadcast of Eco-Challenge after your later postings. Thanks again A-m for the info. I would be more than sad if I missed a chance to see or hear AR and I would not have known about the rebroadcast of this show if not for you.
Ellen W.
USA - Friday, April 14, 2000 at 07:06:57 (PDT)

Thanks a-m
Ellen W.
USA - Friday, April 14, 2000 at 06:51:12 (PDT)

Oh, I dunnno, Sally . . . some of us think Mr. R looks better now than he's ever looked!
Can't wait to see how he looks in Never Better.
Fausta <emma-mail@mailexcite.comfoo>
USA - Friday, April 14, 2000 at 06:32:53 (PDT)

Oooh, er... AR looks old in Dark Harbour - hair is tooo light...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Friday, April 14, 2000 at 00:14:52 (PDT)

I'm sure most of you have been there already, but in case you haven't, there are some great Dark Harbor captures at www.black-roses.net
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Atascadero, CA USA - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 21:38:06 (PDT)

Re: Izzard -- that is very like Alan. Nice to know there are a few generous gents around! With apologies to those who didn't like all of Dogma, I found a quote on the London Standard's "This Is London" page, from an interview with Kevin Smith. "We had Alan Rickman [in the movie] because the voice of God had to be British. His take on Metatron was like Ziggy Stardust as if he had aged." I haven't seen the film, so I have to ask, he's talking about Metatron's attitude, right? Another review likened his accent to Terence Stamp's Cockney accent in The Limey. I love the idea of Metatron as a long-in-the-tooth rocker! Then again, it might be my age. :)
Ann <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
AZ USA - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 18:52:32 (PDT)

I received an email from Videoflicks in Canada today. I had indicated at their site that I was looking for Fallen Angels V. 1. They emailed to let me know it was in stock as a used tape. They are charging $36.99. I've already found it but I thought someone here might be interested. They may only have one copy. The email wasn't specific. Good hunting!
A-m
LI, NY USA - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 18:33:44 (PDT)

Heli, I had a similar experience with Eddie Izzard. I caught "Dressed th Kill" on HBO at about 3:00 in the morning and thought it was extraordinary. I went searching for info on him and also found out about the AR connection. I can't recall where I found it but I found an article from the Independent from April 1994. The quote below came from the article.

"Earlier this year, he and the actor Alan Rickman met at a benefit at the Palladium. Izzard told Rickman how much he admired his work, and Rickman reciprocated. Shortly afterwards, Rickman turned down the part of Del(in the Mamet play) but suggested to the producer that he approach Izzard.

'I got the call on Friday, did a read-through the script on Saturday and on Tuesday evening I was offered the part. For three days everything spun round.' What he finds so flattering is that Rickman should have recommended him for the part. It is, he says, the praise of his peers that matters to him most of all. He can take or leave the money and could even do without the applause; but the respect of his peers is crucial."
A-m
LI, NY USA - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 18:28:35 (PDT)

Makes you wonder why anyone even bothered to audition for the film...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 17:21:57 (PDT)

Here's what the LA Times has to say about the Dark Harbor release:

Thursday, April 13, 2000
News from Pasadena in the Times Community Newspapers
By LISA MILLER

Could a killer actually hinge a murder scheme on his ability to predict the victim's reaction to a series of complex situations? This incredible construct, replete with a trio of unappealing characters, ultimately sinks "Dark Harbor," a thriller set on an isolated island in Maine. It appears to have imitated the premise from 1982's spine-tingling comedy "Deathtrap," but failed to learn its successful tricks.

"Dark Harbor," is a serious film that is frequently unintentionally funny. Alan Rickman is cast as David, a middle-aged attorney unable to remember his last winning case, married to a lovely young heiress, Alexis Chandler (Polly Walker). An uneasy weekend spent at their cottage is interrupted by a young, unnamed drifter (Norman Reedus) who, over David's strenuous protests, stays for a while. The drifter claims to be an illiterate author in the habit of dictating to transcribers, persuading Alexis to pen his prose about wanting to "pack it all in" due to overwhelming depression.

Afterwards, she stupidly teaches him to separate the poisonous from the edible indigenous mushrooms. Such overt plot telegraphing is the probable reason distributor Artisan took this film direct to video following a few film festival screenings. In a just world, Artisan's clever strategy would be rewarded with the dustiest video cases on the shelf.

Magda
Canada - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 17:18:09 (PDT)

Dogma will be released in the US on May 2, 2000 according to Amazon.com - but the video is very expensive...
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 15:45:49 (PDT)

Does anyone know when Dogma will be released on video? I neglected to go see it. I know, I'm not the fan I used to be... Till recently..
Ellen Sherman
PTC, ga USA - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 15:01:01 (PDT)

Hi! My friend brought me a video that she wanted me to definately watch because the guy in it was sooo funny. And I did, and he was. The video was Dress to Kill and it was stand up comic by Eddie Izzard. Now I have never heard of this guy before, but he is quite evil but extremely funny in an intelligent way. Now why am I talking about this here? Because I found from his website this quote: "The Cryptogram (David Mamet): Actor, Alan Rickman, recommended Eddie for the World premiere of David Mamet's The Cryptogram.The show ran for three months and led to Eddie being offered the lead role in 900 Oneata." Does anyone know how they know each other? I just thought it was rather interesting to see AR's name in unexpected places. (Still haven't had time to go and see Dogma and it is driving me grazy...GOT to see it!!!) Lots of love, Heli
Heli L. <akasha@iki.fifoo>
Helsinki, FINLAND - Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 03:05:03 (PDT)

Apologies (otra vez) but the US Tv premiere was last year...
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, April 12, 2000 at 19:18:53 (PDT)

To the Australian fans of AR, I see that urbancinefile are listing Judas Kiss as to be released in June - although the date had not been announced. Whether that means a movie theatre, video or tv viewing, I do not know (as I see IMDB has it being screened on TV on April 23 in the US...)
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, April 12, 2000 at 15:53:57 (PDT)

Finally saw Dark Harbor and I really liked it. As for the ending.....I laughed so loud I'm sure everyone on the GB could hear me. I always love a little 'twist' in a movie. But then, AABA was one of my favourites!
Leslie
Ontario Canada - Wednesday, April 12, 2000 at 13:14:29 (PDT)

I'd be more than happy to upload some of your Dark Harbor photos, Blackrose.
I haven't yet had a chance to capture any myself.
And a belated welcome to the Realm, BTW!
Suzanne <SuzanneK@bigfoot.comfoo>
Hallettsville, TX USA - Wednesday, April 12, 2000 at 07:00:11 (PDT)

Watched Dark Harbor and listened to the director's comments. Among the many interesting things he said, Phyllida Law did the voice of Alexis's mother at the funeral; AR had to dive & dive again in waters so cold 'we were medically advised not to put an actor in there".
Me, I loved DkH.
Fausta <emma-mail@mailexcite.comfoo>
USA - Wednesday, April 12, 2000 at 05:54:57 (PDT)

Yeah I saw those Dogma pics too. Well, I finally saw Dark Harbor,,but..well, I have alot of mixed feelings about this one. Too bad one can't upload pics in this guestbook (other than linking to one's site) as I've captured about 30 from the video. Alan looks great as always, and the story itself is ok,,until the ending.
Blackrose <blackros@telusplanet.netfoo>
Edmonton, AB Canada - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 22:21:26 (PDT)

I don't know if anyone has pointed out this site before, and if they have, I do apologise and plead my newcomer status - but there are TONS of behind the scenes pictures of AR in the Dogma movie... Its at http://www.dogma-movie.com/pics/imagesnf.html (Warning, the photos were captured by an guy. Guess what aspect of AR's role in Dogma he focused on...)
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 22:14:53 (PDT)

I just received DarkHarbor DVD in the mail yesterday and although another fan/friend/from this page didn't like it, I thought it another splendid showcase. (Unlike GQ). The writers were young, the director young, yet they had enough continuity to hold the film together from begining to end. I would fault some of the dialogue for not being strong enough yet the actors made up for that lack and then some. If you can, do see it. Its got me writing poetry again.
Ellen <writersherman@mindspring.comfoo>
Peachtree City, GA USA - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 15:17:09 (PDT)

Lucky you, Fausta! My first was 26 hours (and seemed like 190 miles!)
Georgiana (I'm not sure I've yet forgiven her, well, except for Zelda...)
Seattle - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 14:39:42 (PDT)

I've decided already - I only want the audio version of this programme when it crosses the Atlantic in the summer!

Claire
- Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 14:38:29 (PDT)

LOL, Georgiana!
But in my case childbirth only lasted 6 hours, and did not drag for 190 miles
Fausta
USA - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 13:48:33 (PDT)

...not to mention the woman with history of 'bone cancer' who kept having problems with her hands...
...then there was the woman who dislocated her elbow (and broker her nose!)--wasn't watching that be relocated rather inspiring?
So, Fausta, perhaps childbirth is appropriate preparation!
Georgiana (ooh, I cringed!)
Seattle - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 13:33:56 (PDT)

Thanks, Fausta. He seemed to vary between ACK and AHC for the lead in to that mountain name--which gives me fits every time I need to say it! But I realize it should be a 'soft' A. It was a great show to which to do a work-out--the whole pace of it kept one going, and at the end the point was made that a team that had 3 women and 1 man finished 'in contention'! Wasn't Aconcagua climbed by a team of breast cancer survivors? Alas, in this challenge, I believe Team Aconcagua and Team Black Rhino finished dead last--but finished!
Georgiana (reminded me of hiking the Inka Trail--a bit higher but not nearly so inclement!)
Seattle - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 13:09:46 (PDT)

re: Eco-Challenge,
A-m, yes, exhausting to watch, and brought back memories of backpacking/camping at high altitudes in the freezing rain, back in my dim & distant past.
Georgiana, for Spanish pronunciation coaching, here I am.
Having just read the ad for the Eco-Challenge, which aks, "Could Having a Baby Prove To Be The Best Training for The World's Toughest Adventure Race?", my definite answer is

"NO!"

The Cinefex article has a couple of small pictures of Mr. Rickman I haven't previously seen. It was quite enjoyable listening to him last narrating Eco-Challenge--although I do think the pronounciation of Aconcagua varied a bit... The versions of Eco-Challenge running on Discovery-Civilization were earlier races--notably in the Pacific Northwest. Parts 1 and 2 of Argentina airs again on April 16, 2 pm ET/PT and again on April 22 at 4 pm.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 10:49:39 (PDT)

There is a special effects quarterly journal named Cinefex and there is a 16 page article with many pics of Galaxy Quest. This is the article you should read if you want to impress your children who constantly ask "But how did they do that?" There is only one reference to AR (a discussion about the special effort to tone down the glare from his headgear under the lights), but if you're into the How-to stuff, it might be a fun read.
Magda
Canada - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 09:50:20 (PDT)

It's a relief to know I wasn't seeing things.
Magda
Canada - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 05:09:43 (PDT)

Regarding the backstage photo on Claire's page - no, it is not the same photo that was up on Sunday. The photo that appeared there on Sunday was taken by me and shared with a few select people, all of whom PROMISED that it would not be published in any form. You see, I promised Mr. Rickman that the photos would not be published when I took them in 1991 and 1992. Someone with whom I shared the photos apparently broke her promise to me and gave copies of the photos to others. Somehow, they got to Claire, who posted them in good faith. She was kind enough to take the photo down as soon as possible after I requested she do so. I really appreciate her assistance.
Keyser
USA - Tuesday, April 11, 2000 at 04:10:39 (PDT)

I'm about to scream!! Dark Harbor is being released at one video store I frequent. I asked them to reserve it for me and they said sorry,,first come, first serve..With my luck, I probably won't be able to see it for a month. Oh well,,at least I got The Alan Rickman Unauthorized Biography today to console me..sorry,,just had to vent..By the way, if anyone is interested, I put up a chatroom for anyone who wants to go in and chat with other Rickman fans. And a place to put photos of your choice. They can be used as greeting cards. It's not really a site,,just a little page with a link to the chatroom. That's all it was intended to be really.
Blackrose <blackros@telusplanet.netfoo>
Edmonton, Ab Canada - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 20:40:42 (PDT)

It will be repeated... I went to the Discovery website... here is what it says: Discovery Channel Eco-Challenge Argentina premieres on April 9, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET/PT, and concludes on April 10, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET/PT. It re-airs on April 16 at 2 p.m., ET/PT and on April 22 at 4 p.m. ET/PT.
Maxine <maxinerose@prodigy.netfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 19:35:38 (PDT)

Sandy, I'd have been watching the Pythons as well if I hadn't thought I'd set my VCR. Surprise!! I goofed. Hope it was good.

Am I the only one who is getting cold and tired just WATCHING the Eco-challenge? My favorite phrase so far-"Patagonia is exquisitely empty."*sigh*
A-m
LI, NY USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 19:00:42 (PDT)

Hello everyone! I finally got to see GQ yesterday - I have never laughed so much in all my life! It was worth the price of admission alone to see the look the doctor gives one fan who wants his autograph. Poor AR - sweating under that rubber thing, not even getting something to eat, and still saving the day! This is such good fun and to AR (if you read this)well done for being so good. This movie really hit the mark and appears very real. The cinema was full and everyone had a good laugh. I do hope this comes out on video soon. bye!
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 18:53:51 (PDT)

If I remember from when Liam Neeson narrated; they like to leave you guessing as to who is narrating it till the end of the entire two days and then it goes quickly by at the end. I remember wondering the entire EC last time, who is that narrating?? I wonder if we could convince the EC staff to have AR do it every year?? :-)
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Listening to The Voice as I type, CA USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 18:10:56 (PDT)

You're right Magda. It IS a different photo!
Sandy
Tewksbury, MA USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 17:34:57 (PDT)

Maybe it's the pressure of having three projects for three different clients going at once, but are my eyes deceiving me? Claire, is that "backstage photo" the same one that was there yesterday?
Magda
Canada - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 17:24:07 (PDT)

Thanks for the heads up A-m! Rats, if I had only known (but I watched the Monty Python special instead on A&E)... Also, does anybody know if AR was at the BAFTA awards?
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 17:05:05 (PDT)

I don't know if anyone has observed, but I notice Amazon is taking pre-orders for Mesmer on DVD. It will be released on May 23. Anyone know if there are any plans to migrate Rasputin to DVD???
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 16:22:25 (PDT)

Usually the tell who narrates the program rather prominantly in the credits - don't they say who the narrator is in this Eco-Challenge program?
Sally <cybmause@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 15:49:07 (PDT)

As a big Eco-Challenge fan, I can tell you that last year's EC was not narrated by AR and I know one of the past ones was narrated by Liam Neeson(don't remember if it was last year or not). They are quite addicting and I am still disappointed I missed the first round this year. But I will be watching tonight with even greater anticipation then any other time!!!
Heather <arbgfan@yahoo.comfoo>
Atascadero, CA USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 13:26:02 (PDT)

All AR fans must watch his performance in the BBC's production of Anthony Trollope's Barchester Towers filmed quite a few years ago. - Superb!!
Anne <acamec@yahoo.comfoo>
Hulett, WY USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 13:13:49 (PDT)

Thank you for the photos, Claire. They're a great (unintended) birthday present. He looks like PL in the top one! :) Oy, must go in and write. And I'll see if PT II of the eco-challenge airs tonight. I trust they gave the assignment to the same guy as Pt. I.
Ann <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
AZ USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 11:04:05 (PDT)

Information about air times for "Eco-Challenge" (including in Europe, Australia--starting in June) can be found at: Air Times.
Georgiana
Seattle - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 10:40:43 (PDT)

Daily News (New York), April 9, 2000, Sunday, SPORTS FINAL EDITION
HEADLINE: NATURE'S OLYMPICS, BYLINE: BY PAUL KEANE

'Eco-Challenge," the Discovery Channel's annual expedition race pitting human against nature, took an especially dramatic turn this year when Mother Nature struck a particulary aggressive stance, in the form of a blizzard, and wreaked havoc on the course and the competitors.

What transpired during the competition has been consolidated into a four-hour program, narrated by actor Alan Rickman, airing tonight and tomorrow. [cut]

Eco-Challenge airs on Discovery tonight & Monday, 9-11 p.m.
Georgiana
Seattle - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 09:50:21 (PDT)

Thanks for the heads-up, A-m! For those with digital cable, Eco-Challenge, pt 1, runs on D-CIV (Discovery Civilization) twice today, and pt 2 on DSC--both prime time on the West Coast. On my digital TV Guide, pt 2 ends with "Narrated by Alan Rickman."
Georgiana (looking forward to a look at Patagonia--went dino digging there in '96) <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle today (DC tomorrow...) - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 07:59:27 (PDT)

Thank you for answering my questions so promptly. That news about Marianne dying is indeed sad and Mary Ann not being able to have children for Brandon, who would make an endearing father, means that Brandon will die without any heirs. Or will there be any provision made for that, since from what I have read 20/21st century technology can exist side by side with mid/late 18th(Hans Gruber can use his cell phone while at Delaford), then maybe Dr. McCoy or another physician might be able to heal, as they would call it, 'an empty womb'? If not being able to heal her, then perhaps another could bear her a son or two. I know I seem not to be able to get over this, but it hurts me to see that the good Colonel Brandon-the kindest and best of men(homage), might be without sons/daughters. Sincerely saddened, D
Davida <williamsdav@onebox.comfoo>
Queens, NY USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 07:27:35 (PDT)

Oh, peachy, not only does Rickman films never (or nearly-never) get released, now he narrates documentaries while not being listed in the credits, which means that the program doesn't get listed in the tv-now schedule, either.
Let's hope his name appears in the Discovery video, IF there is one.
Fausta <emma-mail@mailexcite.comfoo>
USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 07:13:11 (PDT)

After a little look around the Discovery.com site it looks like tonight's show was part one of two. Part two is on tomorrow at 9:00 Eastern(and repeats at 12:00am). In looking around the site this seems to be part of a series of Eco-Challenges. I don't know if AR only narrates this one. The credits they list don't include him. The info I gave below seems to be for the rebroadcast of the two parts. Sorry to be so confusing, but the site is a little less than helpful. I suppose they assume people are looking for info on the race and not the narrator.
A-m
LI, NY USA - Sunday, April 09, 2000 at 23:10:55 (PDT)

Thanks to Kim I was able to catch the last half hour of a program on The Discovery Channel that AR narrated. It is called Eco-Challenge Argentina. It will be rebroadcast twice this month. The times I have are all Eastern. Sunday, 4/16 at 2:00 pm, and Saturday, 4/22 at 4:00 pm. The program is 2 hours long and AR sounds great. The show is pretty interesting as well!!
A-m
LI, NY USA - Sunday, April 09, 2000 at 22:40:29 (PDT)

Oh yeah, According to IMDB Blow Dry is currently set to be realeased in the US on August 18, 2000 and The Netherlands (!!!)on the 28th September, 2000. I can't find release dates for anywhere else yet - it certainly isn't on the Australian radar at all.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, April 09, 2000 at 19:42:57 (PDT)

Barbara: Thanks for the info on the video's. I called around on the weekend and determined that Mesmer and Judas Kiss were never released in Australia - which I think bodes exceptionally badly for Dark Harbor beign released here. Mind you, despite having eventually finding a copy of Rasputin in a video store, I was assured that one had never been released here either, and it sure looked like it had been distributed in Australia by Village Roadshow and Warner Bros. Studios, Qld to me... However, I do hold less hope for Mesmer and Judas Kiss.

AS for Harry Potter, there havne't been any reumours really since Stephen Spielberg walked from it (in part, apparently because the nepharious 'they'm wouldn't let Hayle Joel Osment play Harry Potter - 'they' wanted an english boy... Now, if only they had applied that logic to the Diary of Bridget Jones - we wounldn't have to put up with a skinny blonde texan chick playing Bridget Jones...). Anyway, the only casting rumours to date are Christopher Walken (Sleepy Hollow) for Professor Snape, one of Harry's magic instructors at Hogwarts School; and Rosie O'Donnell (A League of Their Own) for Molly Weasley, the mother of Harry's best friend Ron. Officially, neither actor has signed any contract.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, April 09, 2000 at 16:12:00 (PDT)

May I also add my thanks, Claire! It's always great to see theater pics for AR, and these are certainly no exception.
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Sunday, April 09, 2000 at 15:46:48 (PDT)

Great pics, Claire! I was beginning to despair if I would ever see any new AR pics, and then you posted those! Thanks!
Neva
USA - Sunday, April 09, 2000 at 12:45:25 (PDT)

Hello everyone, and to Davida from Queens, welcome! Claire, have you heard anything about Harry Potter? Also, do you know when Blow Dry will be shown? Fausta, thankyou for the info on ROTN. Hopefully will get a copy of this soon, here in Australia.I will be seeing GQ on Tuesday! Sally, will keep an eye out for Mesmer, perhaps A call to Arena will not go astray to play it again. It seems JK and Dharbor are lost to us here. Perhaps a letter to Ar's managers would help? Bye for now.
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Sunday, April 09, 2000 at 00:17:08 (PDT)

Sally - Mesmer,Judas Kiss are not released in PAL in the UK, AABA was only rental release but all have been on TV, Mesmer on cable only. You will need a European GB poster to report on possible PAL releases there, but they are usually similar to the UK.

Ann - Yes it is the Nov.95 Vanity Fair with the Kilt picture, it often crops up on ebay.

Claire
UK, - Saturday, April 08, 2000 at 11:20:23 (PDT)

Thanks Georgiana - I've bookmarked the site in anticipation of the Aussie dollar rising (in my dreams if the newspaper analysts are anything to go by...).
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Saturday, April 08, 2000 at 07:13:56 (PDT)

Just checking in from Geneva. My but it is a challenge on a French keyboard, where they have moved some of the keys. Barchester has been available in PAL at Blackstar (.co.uk). I bought it there and had it converted. Check the FAQ for specifics as Chris keeps it fairly up to date.
Georgiana (looking forward to seeing Claire...)
President Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland - Saturday, April 08, 2000 at 03:18:48 (PDT)

Claire's previously mentioned AR quote: "The audience arrived and you sensed they were not regular theatre goers." Gee, sounds like myself going to see A&C in 1998! Makes me wonder just how many of those Hamlet-goers were there for the same reason .. err, person .. as me! (grin)

Kari
Seattle, USA - Friday, April 07, 2000 at 21:12:48 (PDT)

Hello ladies, I saw the November '95 iss. of Vanity Fair for sale on ebay, and I wondered, it lists a lead article on Ralph Fiennes, and then serveal bits on British Stage Actors. This wouldn't be the Lord Snowdon "kilt" issue? :) Wish I could afford it. The sight of Alan in that kilt -- posed among statues "representing" peoples from the various territories of the British Empire -- it's as if he's saying don't forget Ireland and Wales!;) Thank goodness for the internet. And my generous fellow Rickmaniacs.
Ann W <wagner@cybertrails.comfoo>
AZ USA - Friday, April 07, 2000 at 21:01:36 (PDT)

Double deleted.
No problem.
D.o.C.

Sorry about the duplication there - didn't do proper HTML... Meanwhile, my original questions wasn't posted:

Has anyone outside of America found Memser or Judas Kiss in PAL format??? I'm wondering if these two movies were only released in the American video format and thats why I can't find them even in the dingiest of arty video stores in Sydney
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Friday, April 07, 2000 at 16:51:24 (PDT)

I don't know if this has been recommended or not, but I just found a site selling The Barchester Chronicles for 19.99 pounds (but having said that, as I scrolled through all that was available, it didn't appear when I went back to Page 1, and the site flat out disappeared when I was using my NEtscape browser...). Its www.moviem.co.uk. I'll be intrigued to hear if anyone else sees it there... (I searched in the UK Lit database to find it...)

Should the Aussie dollar stop its current freefall (SHOOT the Wallstreet Mutual Funds and Investment Banks before they cripple the world economy PLEASE!!!), I'll consisder buying these seem I gather AR's perfomance stile the show!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Friday, April 07, 2000 at 16:35:11 (PDT)

You mean you only swiped one copy? *koff* Mary Anne, how hard could that mag be to track down? Thanks for that info, Claire.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.com foo>
- Friday, April 07, 2000 at 14:44:26 (PDT)

Travel Update

British Airways is showing GQ on routes out of US in April - complete dummies, don't they realise you have all seen it and its us lesser mortals going the other way need it !!! We get Ripley, nice but not quite the same.

And after you have seen GQ .. check out the High Flyer magazine for the small AR article in part of My Greatest ever Shakespearean Performance. Rickman reckons his was Hamlet in Barrow. This is for the unfortunate person next flying who will find their copy of the magazine strangely missing (grin)

"The warehouse was bigger than we expected and freezing cold. Geraldine McEwan who played Gertrude, has to wear an overcoat allevening, even when we were playing indoor scenes. The audience arrived and you sensed they were not regular theatre goers. But the atmosphere was electric and we were just pulled along in telling the story of the play."

"Working with Robert (Sturua) was a pleasure, even if he was a little eccentric.We had only five weeks rehersal and at the end of the first week we were only on Act I, Scene1. He just wanted to talk about it. At the end of that week I suggested we should do some rehersing. I suggested Geraldine and I should try the closet scene, which is actually quite violent, and I threw her about a bit. He said if we could do that already then we did not need a director. It was such an open thing to say. I liked him very much"

Small picture which will be in the usual place over the weekend.

This is for Renie - KB also in the same article, his was Peter Quince Chicago MSD and Hamlet in Elsinor.

Claire
UK - Friday, April 07, 2000 at 13:39:59 (PDT)

Thank you, Davida, for your kind words! 8-)

To answer your four questions . . . 1. The death of Marianne is understood to be several years ago, but the time is not specified. 2. She did not leave Brandon any children. 3. Her death is mentioned at several points but there are no lengthy descriptions of how she died. 4. No, Mary Anne will not be having Brandon's children in the foreseeable future. Actually, she can't have children, but that's another storyline entirely.

I hope you keep reading and enjoying!

Mary Anne
Typing with one hand and packing with the other, USA - Thursday, April 06, 2000 at 18:29:49 (PDT)

Sally, I was forced to read ROTN in high school (along with the rest of my class), and you're right: the first chapter is a doozy, to say the least. However, after reading the many high recommendations of AR's reading from the other GB regulars (and thank you Fausta, for your review), I decided to give it a second try. I only have to say that I wish that I could have listened to the VOICE while we were reading. It changed my opinion of the book, to say the least ;-).
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Thursday, April 06, 2000 at 18:06:02 (PDT)

Since I am listening to ROTN as I walk to and from work at present, I think listening to AR speak is he ONLY way to 'read' this book. The opening chapter would have pretty much prevented me from reading the rest of the book, but since I was listening to AR, I persevered and am now quite enjoying the tale. Recommend this route to everyone - even if getting it to listen to AR for 15 hours is the only reason
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Thursday, April 06, 2000 at 16:54:02 (PDT)

Kaboombooks http://www.kaboombooks.com has The Return Of The Native for $29.22, and they say that they charge only $3 per order for shipping. I highly recomend it, if only for Mr Rickman's reading
Fausta <emma-mail@mailexcite.comfoo>
USA - Thursday, April 06, 2000 at 14:09:36 (PDT)

Thank you for the welcome! I hope your week out is on vacation and if it is(hopefully), then I am sure it is well deserved. I wanted to ask four quick questions: When did Marianne Brandon die, did she leave him any children, was her death written about in any of the stories and will Mary Ann Brandon have any children for him? Is that four, yes, that's four.(smile) Thanks again. P.S. You write extremely well.
Davida <williamsdav@onebox.comfoo>
Queens, NY USA - Thursday, April 06, 2000 at 13:58:41 (PDT)

Davida--re: your questions about Flights of Fancy, or as we tend to say here on the GB, "next door." The character I'm writing there is one based more or less on myself. A little less, actually . . . though at times much more. *grin* "Mary Anne" is not Marianne Dashwood, who in the Flights of Fancy universe, died several years ago and left Brandon a widower. Lucky "Mary Anne," who had a similar name, took up with him and the rest is . . . history?

Glad you're enjoying reading and as you say you like to write, perhaps you'll join us at some time or another. Read a while to get the feeling of the different storylines, and if you'd like to jump in, check with one of the regulars about what's going on, which characters are "in use," etc. You say you've read Claudia's excellent pages; she could answer your questions if you have any. I'd be happy to field some myself, but I'm about to be out of town for a week or so. Thanks for letting us know you've been reading our madcap adventures. I wonder how many other lurkers are out there in the shadows . . . *eerie musical sting*

Mary Anne (not Dashwood)
USA - Wednesday, April 05, 2000 at 20:24:31 (PDT)

Glad to be back from Phoenix (the 4+ hour ride to the Grand Canyon alone from where I was staying was totally worth it!)and just wanted to mention that I saw Galaxy Quest on my connecting flight from St. Louis to Phoenix on the way down with my sister (flew TWA). She is NOT a fan of sci-fi in general, but she loved the film-very funny were her words. Big praise from her, to say the least. Back to catching up on the GB!
Sandy <fiebrans@prodigy.netfoo>
Tewksbury, MA USA - Wednesday, April 05, 2000 at 20:08:49 (PDT)

I was a bit suprised David and Margaret gave GQ such a good review after Margaret very glum intro - brilliant throw there... And David's comments, emphasising AR (sort of): "A terrific romp, a genuinely funny spoof on Star Trek, with joyful performances from Tim Allen, Alan Rickman - particularly good - and Sigourney Weaver. The Seven Samuri plot is sweet, and the special effects are surprisingly lavish. Very entertaining."

**(for the foreign readers here, David and Margaret movie critics who are the Siskel and Ebert of Australia with their weekly show, The Movie Show). But, a big YAY! Its worth it guys - it is the funniest movie I've seen in ages (but maybe I am biased and getting tired of all these dreary 'based on fact' dramas out at present...).

Actually, trolling the SBS website, I see Margaret has praised AR before in Dogma - "Alan Rickman's performance lifts the film immeasurably whenever he's on screen"

Ah well, none of this is really news to us anyway, is it?! Now, if only we knew what AR was negotiating now... Although I think an appearance on Harry Potter would be great (which I also know is pure speculation at this point!), he obviously isn't going to be the lead actor, and I want him to be in a hit leading actor role right now, not supporting as always seems to end up (at least, in the films that make the movie theatres. Vexing!)
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, April 05, 2000 at 17:15:08 (PDT)

Barbara, I too was amazed by the favourable comments about GQ by both David and Margaret on the Movie Show last night. For years they've always given AR bad reviews, over the top acting etc., Hopefully this may mean the beginning of a new era of reviews. I am off to see GQ Friday (my day off) Let's know what you think about it. Jenny
Jenny <gberry@cosmos.net.aufoo>
Melbourne, Australia - Wednesday, April 05, 2000 at 16:17:00 (PDT)

Hi, I would like to introduce myself to the guest book. My name is Davida and I am of course new to this book, but, not however, new to this site(this and Claudia's A.Rickman's pages). I recently fell in love with Alan Rickman through SENSE AND SENSIBILITIES via Colonel Brandon. These two pages are wonderful indeed and I want to thank the originators for putting up these sites. They are indepth and original. I wandered through the Flights of Fancy page and have read the many wonderful stories. There are such excellent writers here, and as a writer myself, I am always looking to improve my skills. I looked in the Who's Who profile on the characters and the people behind them and in particular wondered who Mary Anne was. Is she the same Mary Anne Dashwood from Sense and Sensibilities or is she another? If that is the case, will Elinor, her husband, her mother and sister ever be included in these stories? If she is not the same Mary Anne, what happened to the young Miss Dashwood(who did become Mrs. C. Brandon by the end of the movie)? Once again, thank you for this site and I look forward to talking with everyone and anyone soon.
Davida Williams <williamsdav@onebox.comfoo>
Queens, NY USA - Wednesday, April 05, 2000 at 13:27:07 (PDT)

From 2 April 2000 Chicago Tribune, "In Focus," by Michael Wilmington, movie critic: "Truly, Madly, Deeply" (Anthony Minghella, 1991) at 12:50 p.m. on Encore. Juliet Richardson plays a woman whose lover, played by Alan Rickman, comes back to life -- sort of. This British fantasy romance is a more civilized entertainment than, say, "Ghost." It's a bit too self-consciously life-affirming, but worth seeing.
[Well, at least they got *his* name right!]
Georgiana (just because it's there...)
Seattle (to Geneva through London today...) - Wednesday, April 05, 2000 at 09:38:22 (PDT)

I just received a copy of the April "Critic's Choice Video" catalog and they list The Winter Guest (VHS format) for $19.77. They have a website at www.ccvideo.com, or you can call 800-367-7765 to order. Right now they are running a "free shipping" special on any order, even if it's just for one video. Can't get better than this.
NancyC <Nancy.Currier@agg.comfoo>
Atlanta, GA USA - Wednesday, April 05, 2000 at 09:34:00 (PDT)

Well everyone, I have to take back every bad thing I have ever said about David on the "Movie Show" , because, tonight, both him and the wonderful Margaret gave GQ a HUGE thumbs up!! Both were unanimous in their praise of this very funny film and especially for saying that AR was superb in his role. They gave GQ 4 stars out of 5! Thanks for the tip, Sally. Now I am off to see this movie as soon as I can. Bye!
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Wednesday, April 05, 2000 at 05:04:18 (PDT)

Well, I finally got a chance to catch up, started a new term in school and it's keeping me very busy. :)
Claire-Great pics as always and loved the April Fools. :)
Fausta-oh wow!!! Gotta love the hair!!

Heather <BeenBaby25@aol.comfoo>
CA USA - Tuesday, April 04, 2000 at 00:03:52 (PDT)

Hello everyone! Thanks for the tip off, Sally. I do like "the Movie Show", but I don't always agree with David though. Will try and see GQ this thursday hopefully- I can not wait.Ladies, I do agree about "Closetland", very difficult part to play and perhaps would have been better on the stage. Here in AR's natural Habitat with an audience around him, he could have bought an even chillier angle to this odious person. Have a great day where ever you are in this small world.
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld. Australia - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 19:29:46 (PDT)

Ok Aussie fans - it all systems go for a review of Galaxy Quest on The Movie Show (SBS) wednesday night (5th April) - I saw the shorts for the Movie Show last night - and GQ was the first thing... Set them VCR's! I'm intrigued how they'll rate since I loved it last Friday...

Barbara, I saw GQ at a Greater Union Cinema Mystery Night, but they only seem to that in Brisbane - which isn't exactly a hop skip and jump from you is it? If Greater Union do do a Mystery Night, they do it the first friday of the month and only when they have some 'big' releases coming up. Thats how I saw American Pie (?yay?) and The Sixth Sense before they were released. You can kind of guess which one will be the mystery movie in each case - its the one that will appeal to the masses and is being released the following week. In this instance, it was a toss up between Galaxy Quest and Stuart Little - I guessed (correctly) it would be GQ...
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 17:30:34 (PDT)

Sue Zen: Although I can't say I enjoyed Closet Land, I thought AR's performance was amazing. It must have been an extremely difficult role, and I can think of only a few other actors who could have pulled it off. Anthony Hopkins comes to mind...
LynnP
PA USA - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 17:20:10 (PDT)

Actually, that Hot Properties bit might be a little dated. According to Bookwire in November, "Another forthcoming movie, called ``Blow Dry,'' is being ``integrated'' with a Talk ad campaign by Tommy Hilfiger." Talk is a glossy Vanity Fairish mag edited by Tina Brown and owned by Miramax. So we should start watching for it soon.
Magda
Canada - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 15:13:40 (PDT)

Chris Columbus wrote "Young Sherlock Holmes"; it was directed by Barry Levinson. Columbus directed "Mrs. Doubtfire," "Home Alone" I & II, Bicentennial Man, among others.
Georgiana
Seattle - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 13:40:56 (PDT)

If I recall correctly, was it not Chris Columbus who directed "Young Sherlock Holmes"? As a Holmes aficionado, I didn't much care for that movie, finding its sensibility too "American" and its characterizations stereotypic rather than capturing the depth of Conan Doyle's well-rounded characterizations. I hope Columbus does a better job with Potter...
Sue Zen
Not a lot of "Closet Land" fans on the Guestbook, eh...?, USA - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 13:15:48 (PDT)

Any Rickman role in "Harry Potter" at present is from fan speculation, as I read the article, Can Chris Columbus Make It Magic?. I watched "Galaxy Quest" yesterday with Zelda, nearly 4. She really enjoyed it, especially the 'mock' fight between Commander Tagart and Dr. Lazarus, which had her doing Judo kicks around the house. She was a wee bit apprehensive about Sarris, but handled him fine with a bit of warning. She liked how he went up in smoke at the end, which she likened to how the Wicked Witch melts at the end of "Oz."
Georgiana (still hoping for more grown-up fare...)
Seattle - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 12:42:05 (PDT)

This mornings LA Times suggests that AR is being considered for the role of Prof. Snape in Harry Potter! Oh please, no - can't we give him Dumbledore? (Or maybe Prof. Lupin in the 3rd book?) Of course, AR could do it. Something along the lines of the Sheriff, only wearing wizards robes - an interesting thought to ponder. And it would keep him in all the movies, assuming there is more than one. Patrick Stewart is being considered for Dumbledore. If AR can't have the role, PS would undoubtedly be excellent. Make it so!
Karen
USA - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 11:10:11 (PDT)

A site called HOT PROPERTIES, which deals with film marketing, lists "Blow Dry" as a fall release with this blurb:

Blow Dry: Miramax presents a romantic comedy set in the world of competitive hairdressing starring Rachel Griffiths, Alan Rickman, and Rachael Leigh Cook. "We don't want a lot of partners, we want the right partners," says Miramax senior vp-worldwide promotions Lori Sale.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
(flight delayed waiting for Air Force One to land in Las Vegas but back in ...) Seattle - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 09:44:11 (PDT)

But wouldn't he be great IN Harry Potter! Perhaps as Dumbledore or the wicked Valdemort (Valmont to Valdemort, not bad.) Then I could take my kids to another AR movie, help them develop the taste. Here's to J.K. Rowling for reinvigorating children's literature!
susan
USA - Monday, April 03, 2000 at 07:17:41 (PDT)

De Sade, yech! Of all I have read, I can't think of anyone more sick and revolting.
Off-topic, try this Shakespeare quiz. My score read

You scored 8 out of a possible 10
You're either Kenneth Branagh or a English literature student with far too much time on your hands. Go and write a screenplay for a version of Julius Caesar set in a Minnesota kids' summer camp

Read that Geoffrey Rush is due to play de Sade in Quillis, with Michael Caine. Another role, just like Javert, that I would've preferred to see Rickman...
Sue Zen
El Lay, USA - Sunday, April 02, 2000 at 22:09:21 (PDT)

I think AR probably gets to hear what we talk about on this guestbook. an insider would have told him "hey, those bunch of women think you should do more comedy."

"Hmm, more comedy," he muses...

Then he does more comedy... Said insider lets him know what's said on the guestbook...

Throwing arms exhasperatedly in the air, "there's no pleasing some people!"
Claudia
The above is a complete work of fiction, I didn't tell him a thing ;^D, NZ - Sunday, April 02, 2000 at 20:36:30 (PDT)

THAT is heart attack material, Claire!!!!

I agree, Karen, that AR is responsible for choosing the scripts he works with. If he chooses to only take the weird, wacky and wonderful to avoid being typecast, then there aint' much we can do about it (except moan with exasperation!)
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, April 02, 2000 at 18:40:10 (PDT)

Sally (and everyone) - I agree, there ain't no justice! How can someone like Bruce Willis, who isn't even remotely good looking, sexy or seemingly intelligent, be so successful? I guess it's a sad commentary on society that there are so few of us with good taste that's developed highly enough to appreciate AR. I don't understand why he doesn't get better scripts. I understand he has many offers. I feel like a heretic - PLEASE don't shoot me everyone - but we have to realise that AR is to a large extent responsible for what he chooses to do. Maybe he needs a better agent. GQ was just plain FUN though. I didn't even mind Tim Allen.
Karen
USA - Sunday, April 02, 2000 at 17:37:20 (PDT)

CLAIRE! You are a wicked, wicked lady! I had a moment of hope. Dashed, I tell you! CONGRATULATIONS!
Valerie
Richmond, IN USA - Sunday, April 02, 2000 at 12:32:05 (PDT)

Thanks for the reminder about changing the clocks. I had completely forgotten about it..and that was very funny April Fools..ha ha
Blackrose <blackros@telusplanet.netfoo>
Edmonton, AB Canada - Saturday, April 01, 2000 at 21:41:45 (PST)

Hi, all--don't forget that Daylight Saving Time begins tomorrow. Remember to "spring forward" tonight!

Mary Anne (already missing that lost hour of sleep)
USA - Saturday, April 01, 2000 at 19:47:34 (PST)

Nice to meet you, Sally! In response to your question, let me direct you to a link~

http://freespace.virgin.net/sc.i/scinescapenews.htm

This might help clear up your confusion! ;-)
Neva
USA - Saturday, April 01, 2000 at 18:49:50 (PST)

Sally, I have not heard a word in months (seems much longer) about what AR's next film will be. I anxiously scour the internet, hoping for news!
Georgia
Anaheim, USA - Saturday, April 01, 2000 at 18:45:58 (PST)

Oops! Sorry, meant to say I was disappointed in AR missing out on playing Hannibal Lecter, not himself...
Sally
Sydney, Australi - Saturday, April 01, 2000 at 17:29:27 (PST)

I HATE AUSTRALIAN ISP's!!!! Mine keep disconnecting me every time I go for this page (or any database driven page) and its beginnng to ANNOY ME!!!

Thanks Barbara - appreciate you keeping an eye out for me (and Judy).

What this about Henry Potter and Titanic II? Are you talking Steven Spielberg? Latest news with him is he is definetely going to be directing A.I. a new film with Heyley Osment Joel (Mixed up names???) from the Sixth Sense

I just finished The Book and I am deeply depressed AR missed out on playing AR. Any word yet whether Hopkings has firmly decided to play Hannibal in the sequel? Last I heard, Foster was out, Blanchett was in and Hopkins was still waiting for the final script... IF he pulls out, will AR be offered the part again???

And what is happening with AR anyway? I'm asuning he finished filming Blow Dry Dec99 or January 2000, so what's been happening since? Any theatre news from our british correspondents?

And to wrap it all up, I just saw Rasputin and I was blown out of the water with AR's performance! I can't believe he then goes on to appear in 4 movies - two of which never made the movie theatre (judas kiss, Dark HArbour), one that nearly didn't (Dogma), and one which made it, but he wasn't leading (GQ)(although he may as well have been given I don't think Tim Allen had significantly more screen time). WHat is going on here - I'm feeling like he is jinxed in the lead roles - does he feel that way??? How can a man with sooooo much talent end up having such a bad run of luck while talentless morons like Bruce Willis (yes, I my arch-nemesis) keeps cropping up in brilliantly written scripted films that make even him look good????
Sally <cybamuse@mailcity.comfoo>
Sydney, Australia - Saturday, April 01, 2000 at 17:28:06 (PST)

Lynn P, I agree with you about those two songs. Savage Garden came from Logan just north of me here about 30 minutes away and we are proud of them for doing so well! Sally, no worries. I will keep looking for you and will let you know if the movies come on. I envy you! you have already seen GQ. I hope to see it soon. bye for now!
Barbara
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Saturday, April 01, 2000 at 06:03:37 (PST)

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