Alan Rickman Guestbook

(July 2002)

hmmm, I didn't see Charlie Rose feeling threatened by Alan Rickman-a bit unprepared, I grant you, but not intimidated. Charlie is a New Yorker, and has had a bazillion years of interviewing famous people. They both seemed a bit guarded at first, and Rickman was careful in answering questions.Soon after, Charlie had open heart surgery for a congenital valve problem, so he might have felt a bit distracted. Glad he is recovered-he opted for a natural valve so he doesn't have to have blood thinners for the rest of his life-guess he doesn't look good in black and blue like Rickman does....
a concerned citizen
- Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 23:55:23 (PDT)

A diehard fan or a Die Hard fan? Say goodnight Cynthia. Goodnight Cynthia.
Cynthia
CA USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 22:37:18 (PDT)

For all those hoping that there will be a GQ sequel, I have done a thorough check and found one diehard fan who is still actively maintaining the site. And here's the latest:

There is no news of a sequel- at all. In fact, the last time the idea was even floated was in June 2000 - a long time ago!

So, for all those people hoping there is something, it is very much just rumour and hype, probably generated by someone wishing a sequel will come and eventually someone remembers someone mentioning it, and the next thing you know, its a rumour. Thats all it is folks - a rumour!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 22:01:31 (PDT)

I recently received the Charlie Rose/AR interview video, and I think Charlie behaves a little oddly at times. Not counting when he refers to Harry Potter and the Esophagus' Stone. Besides that. All along he refers to AR as a "very good actor", and "good at his craft". Then when Alan candidly,(thus making Charlie's show more interesting for which Charlie should be grateful),admits to stage fright and consideration of hypnosis to combat it, Charlie says somthing like, "one of our best,(now he calls him 'best' so the ridicule has greater impact),actors, considering hypnosis to conquer stage fright", and he just lets that hang there. Nice, Charlie. Then Alan says in defense, "I'm not alone, Olivier had terrible stage fright". Charlie just smiles condescendingly. Go ahead and call me sensitive, but I understand why journalists don't feel Alan's love. There's more strange Charlie stuff, but I'll save it for later. I think he was a little threatened by our man.
Cynthia <Just One Lousy Earthquake in Two Yearsfoo>
CA USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 21:56:05 (PDT)

It has been so good to read all your comments and reviews of PL!! I would like to say here, that this Play, has to be one of the greatest AR has ever done! I also wish AR all the best with his new LA!!!!!!! and HP3. Keep going!
Barbara the Aussie <hermione(underscore )3@hotmail.comfoo>
Gold Coast , Qld. Australia - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 21:41:29 (PDT)

Hello, all! Coming off the lurk to ask a serious literary question. Also, apologizing in advance for any HTML gaffes.

One of the more productive byproducts of my AR fascination is that I have been collecting and reading all the books and plays that the movies have been based on or which are mentioned in the movies. Only Alan Rickman could have induced me to read Proust, but that is for another post... Anyway, because of AABA (my fave by far) I picked up and read Dangerous Corner by J. B. Priestley. In the film, the troupe rushes onto the stage, the sound of a gun is heard, and the curtain goes up revealing that they have all been listening to a radio drama called "The Sleeping Dog". Now, the play I just read does not contain this scene. The title "The Sleeping Dog" is referred to as a novel one of the characters has just written, but that is it.

My question is this--is this just a bit of license by the director (either Meredith Potter or Mike Newell), or is there an alternate version of this play out there?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 18:33:50 (PDT)

Thanks Jules.
Cynthia
CA USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 16:24:54 (PDT)

Congratulations Suzanne!! Not only you have a beautiful website but quite an 'international' guestbook as well! - Keep up the good work!! :)
M. S. Rickman (MsLinda)
London, England - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 16:00:10 (PDT)

Catherine: You don't have to rub it in! I don't even want to think about it! Oh, the agony! :-)

Hey Sunny or lelefua: How about adding some German to the GB? Damit wir zu dem international flair dieses GB's beitragen koennen! LOL
Sabine
GA USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 14:54:20 (PDT)

I would like to pay tribute to this man of passion, restraint, and charisma through this entry. He has left this formerly content, solitary woman sleepless.
Janet <sohmerj@msn.comfoo>
Cincinnati, OH USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 13:13:54 (PDT)

just viewing the GB. wonderful job. I cant help but smile at some of the posts.:)
sheila
- Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 12:25:41 (PDT)

I meant "proud" not "prood", sorry.
lelefua
- Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 12:25:29 (PDT)

Hi Catherine, you lighted my longing for "The return of Native" again, and I was so prood coming over it, not have to spend so much money.
Hallo nettes Nordlicht, schön, dass Du wieder da bist!
lelefua
stuttgart, - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 12:16:57 (PDT)

CatalogCity.com has "Return of the Native," read by Mr. Rickman, for $31.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 12:13:21 (PDT)

Me!! Me!! Me!! Jumping up and down waving hand LOL.We could go on a charabanc!!!!
Magda (its Gods carts going across the sky)
- Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 12:09:04 (PDT)

hi ladies,I am back and glad to hear the news I passed.Oh,what a wondeful time I had :) The beach,the sundown/sunset,walking towards the huge red-yellow-orange-ball over the sea with Alan Rickmans wonderful voice in my ears (thank God for the invention of the WalkMan ;) ),so loud and clear as if he was standing next to me,talking about god and the world ....

And now: Home,in my dirty city,with no beach and no sundown/sunset,but with rain .. a hard world :)

But,oh,that´s enough! I just wanted to say hello to you & wish you a very good night...
verena ,still dreaming
bremen, germany - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 12:08:46 (PDT)

The Return of the Native. Anyone who hasn't listened to it really should if they can get the chance. The (library) copy I had was 12 cassettes worth = 15 and three quarter hours worth of listening. Hours and hours of blissful listening during soaks in the bath, lazing in bed, and walking to and from work! What more could a girl ask for?!! ;-)
It is worth concentrating on (not for playing while driving, perhaps?) but AR's reading makes this so easy. Every word is clear and perfectly pronounced (no room for accusations of "word swallowing" here!); sentences are paced according to the tone of the passage; and all of the characters have recognisably distinct voices/accents.
The story is typical Thomas Hardy - lots of detail, character development, tableaux that can make you laugh out loud, the usual, ahem, twist towards the end.
If you an AR fan you will like this (although probably not want to shell out lots of hard-earned cash on it, as everywhere I've seen it it is expensive to buy); if you are a Hardy fan as well (as I am), you will LOVE it!
There's a review of TROTN on Fausta's page too (if I knew how to do links I would link it!)

Only 30 days before AR is back on his home shores! Lovely! Shall we organise a coach trip to the airport to welcome him home! ;-)
Catherine - it's thundering! *cowers!*
Reading, England - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 11:51:50 (PDT)

FYI, for anyone who is interested, Audiobooks.com has available audiocassettes of The Return of the Native narrated by Alan Rickman for US $44.95 (plus shipping). I bought my set from them. I think it's 6 audiocassettes. It's quite good, (but dangerous to drive listening to it since I need to concentrate on the road, but I would rather concentrate on Alan's voice).
Ellen
New York, NY - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 11:17:25 (PDT)

Saludos para ti, Jasmine!!! No, ya no estoy en New York. Ya estoy en Londres. - - Adios!! :)
M.S. Rickman (MsLinda)
London, England - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 09:25:52 (PDT)

Man 'O man, Jules.....denting his fenders would be well worth the lynching...LOL. I volunteer....ohh pick me please!
Claudia
GA USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 05:51:59 (PDT)

If you've so much as dented his fenders we'll lynch you!
Jules
UK - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 05:38:59 (PDT)

Thank you Lelufa for the link to Tamara's site! Great site! The Alan quotes page is to die for!

I am excited about the new movie coming up but how long will we have to wait for this one? Seems like being a Rickmaniac tries the nerves and the patience (not to mention the pocket book!)! But as one sage friend pointed out to me...if Hugh Grant is on board, we have little to fear!

I am growing more and more keenly aware that the loaning out of AR, The National Treasure, is coming to an end and he will leave our American soil and return to you, dear British friends..... We have been gentle with him and kept him well. You can check for bruise marks all you want as he arrives at Heathrow.... for you will find none! Thirty days is all we have left.........Oh what I would do to go back and catch Private Lives on B'way again!:~(
Constance
Cary, NC USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 04:32:07 (PDT)

THE SUN AIN'T GONNA SHINE ANYMORE
by: Russell Hitchcock
Loneliness is a coat you wear
The dark shade of blue is always there
Emptiness is a place you're in
With nothing to lose and nothing to win
CHORUS
The sun ain't gonna shine anymore
The moon ain't gonna rise in the sky
The tears are always clouding your eyes
When you're without her
Lonely without you, baby
So lonely I can't go on
without her
Jules
UK - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 02:16:55 (PDT)

Will someone please point me to a (at least semi-reputable) website that actually mentions Galaxy Quest 2 is beyond a fantasy in someone's head right now? Because I can't find that rumour on ANY of the major movie rumour websites that I usually rummage around in, and I LOVE Galaxy Quest.

That said, I don't think a sequel could possibly be better or even remotely on par, and if it isn't, I think we can rest assured that AR won't be in it. Nor will Tim Allen and thus presumably, Sigourney Weaver. Its like the original Toy Story was hilarious because Buzz lightyear was in denial about being a toy, but the second one was nowhere near as good because Buzz knew who he was...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 00:16:31 (PDT)

Cynthia, I wish you a goodnight, fun for listening and have nice dreams! Oh? Of whom you might be dreaming ?
lelefua
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 23:06:01 (PDT)

Hi Cynthia, I'm already up for four hours, if I counted right this time. I am very jelous of you all, who could listen to "The return of the native", but our library hasn't it, I'm very happy I could find the "Barchester chronicles" which I didn't expect them to have either. It's very expensive to buy "The return of the native" and because I spent all my money for ARvideos I decided to dispense (don't know the right word, looked in dictionary) without it. Also because I'm very sure I won't understand a word.
lelefua
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:52:01 (PDT)

It said 'tired lelefua', going to bed, Tuesday, midnight, have to get up at 3:30. Three and a half hours sleep?
Cynthia
CA USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:41:55 (PDT)

Thanks Lelefua! It's only 10:30pm. What are you doing up? Soon I will get in bed and turn on The Return of the Native and listen to Alan imitate some guilt-trippin' old bag. Clem's mommy is a real pain in the butt. Somehow it's very soothing to fall asleep to, have to return it to the library soon, unfortunately.
Cynthia
CA USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:38:13 (PDT)

"..in the sky" ?
lelefua
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:33:53 (PDT)

Not only bad in english, but also in maths, it were 7 hours you supposed me to be in bathroom???? Therapist???LOL
lelefua
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:30:18 (PDT)

FastFilm, I never thought of that. How I had to wait up until the wee hours of the morning to catch my loved ones on old movies when I was a teenager. Now all they have to do is go to Blockbuster. Damn kids. I even remember desperately trying to remain awake until 3am to watch some crush in some movie, and my father walking in at 3:01 and ordering me to bed. What a gyp. I'm starting to think you're about 86,87 years old, FastFilm.
Cynthia
CA USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:29:59 (PDT)

Hi Cynthia, linklook for July,29th and go to the photolink there, I think those are Carries pics, but because it got more yesterday, might be include already Tamis.
Sorry don't need two hours in the bathroom, might be you are sleeping now?
lelefua
stuttgart, - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:19:39 (PDT)

Lelefua said it's too bad that the sun doesn't shine on Rickmanfans at the same time, but, as you know, the sun ain't gonna shine anymore, and as I don't know, the moon ain't gonna do something either, I'm not sure what. Rise in your eyes? Stars in your face? Anyone? Anyone?(When you're in luh-uve!!!)
Cynthia
CA USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:12:29 (PDT)

Lelefua, sorry to disturb you while you're sleeping, but where do we find Tammi's stage door pics and review? When you get up to go to the bathroom, please answer before heading back to bed. Thanks! I don't know if Alan is a workaholic, but as I mentioned before, in one interview he says he is compulsive as far as work goes. (I always wonder which interview is the one he says was completely fabricated.) But, it seems clear he goes from one project to another with hardly a break. He likes not having much of a home life. He says he loves to travel, likes that the fridge is nearly empty, likes a life on the go. He likes roller coasters, he says, because everything just "falls away'. An escape. Acting in some respects is an escape from life and your real self. He seems to be avoidant of certain things, like marriage, family, being in one place for long. You know how freeing it is to go on vacation, and it can be depressing at first to come back to old problems, housework, stale routine,etc., well, he's always going away again. What I picked up from reading interviews, and who knows how accurate they are, is that he likes the "gypsy" lifestyle. How lucky he is that he can live it and it's lucrative for him.
Cynthia, "The Therapist Is In"
CA USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:00:31 (PDT)

alan is great!! i love all his films!!
lindsay
CA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 20:40:26 (PDT)

Off/topic, but an answer to GML about Jeremy Brett(God rest his soul)and in which episode he sings.

It is called'The Bruce Partington Plans' (or possibly papers). It concerns the theft of some plans of a submarine, which were carefully locked up in some Government office and Holmes brother, Mycroft, brings him the case. The singing opens the piece, as both Holmes and Watson are relaxing by the fire in Holmes'drawing room, while a terrible fog is keeping most people indoors.

Hope this helps. If you wish to talk more about Mr. Brett, just E-mail me. I have always thought he was the definitive Sherlock Holmes. His so early death was a very sad event.

If you wish to see a good web site on his work and life try going through IMDB and look for one called the Brettish Empire. Some very good wav. files, some links to other sites you might enjoy and a rather touching, long interview, which also contains commentary by the interviewer.

Cheers.
Anne <ahard73977@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 20:05:35 (PDT)

Linda,toda via estas en New York?

Adios!!
Jasmine
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 18:55:46 (PDT)

Lelefua, disregard that last comment. I just read that "Love Actually" will start filming after Private Lives.

I have a picture scanned and I wanted to know if anyone knows how to make it into a link on this page???
Jasmine
thanx, - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 18:49:03 (PDT)

Lelefua, Maybe you are right about him not being a "workaholic". After Private Lives, isn't he starting to film GQ 2?? Don't mark my words, I may be wrong.
Jasmine
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 18:40:48 (PDT)

GML, I forgot to add about Emma Thompson: She was on hiatus to take care of her baby. But hell, she'll take any chance to be Alan's co-star... Grrr..... (What is it with those Thompsons? First Sophie kisses JB, then ET and her AR obsession in S&S, JK, TWG, and now LA. I bet even Phyllida's guilty!)
Julia
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 18:14:36 (PDT)

OT: GML (Please get an email address before we both get kicked off this site for JB-related trivia!), I cannot remember exactly which episode, but I believe it had something to do with the opera. I don't think it was the one where Sherlock's good friend in the opera gets killed (Ah, he cried in that one! What a coup! And so close to the End!) but then, it was a long time ago and neither A&E nor PBS have been obliging enough (grumble grumble) to air SHM for a long time. I have for the longest time now had to rely on the CBC's limited repertoire of SHM after Hockey Night in Canada. Why oh why are the VHS sets so expensive???

And On Topic: Canada's Vision TV is yet again re-running Barchester Chronicles. Tonight is episode 2 of 7. AR appears in episode 3. No, I cannot tape it for anyone. Sorry.
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 18:07:45 (PDT)

Hola Fausta, saludos desde Londres! Como estas? - By the way, Fausta, I've visited your site. Very interesting indeed! - Au Revoir! Adios! GoodBye! (or whatever, LoL)
Ms. S. Rickman (MsLinda)
London, UK - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 15:15:09 (PDT)

Barbara the Wallpaperer/Poet Laureat: loved the verses you penned; glad you liked my offering!!

Love, Actually is starting to sound nice and official - I'm looking forward to it already!

Sure I had more to add but cannot think what it might be! It's the heat you know....! ;-)
Catherine - finished (LOVED) The Return of the Native!
Reading, England - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 15:08:05 (PDT)

Nobody out there? Have to go to bed now, it's midnight and I have to get up at 3.30. It's a pitty that the sun doesn't shine for all Rickmanfans at the same time.
tired lelefua
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 15:02:05 (PDT)

Tami, thank you very much for the new stagedoorpics and the short review, can't wait to hear more. I prefer him in black T-Shirt, the yellow shirt looks a bit tight, wellironed and uncomfortable, sorry sounds not too good. I'm very very happy that you share your experiences with us, thank you very much. I just like him in black. I'm still curious about where the wonderfull pic on your page: "From his own lips" is shot, could you, please tell me? I'm sorry I mistyped your name in my e-mail.Thanks again
lelefua
stgt, - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 14:50:08 (PDT)

Jasmin,I'am thinking about that "workaholic". Might be he isn't, I think that he only wants to feel live and loves challenges. What could be better than the combination of work and friends instead of falling into a hole after one year of PL. But must confess, that I'm not sure, what to believe. What do you others think about it?
lelefua
stuttgart, - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 14:24:38 (PDT)

Uh, I know this isn't quite what Fausta meant, but now I have this vision of Mr Rickman (wearing one of these director's caps) calmly and British-ly explaining to an excitable and panicky French official that Versailles' gardens have to be all dug up for that scene where they show how t'was done ;) *noise of bulldozers in the background*

GML
UK - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 13:45:18 (PDT)

What I would like to see AR play in a movie would be for him to buy the rights (so he'd get to play the lead) to the filming of a story like that of Michael Gearin-Tosh, the man who wrote 'Living Proof' (see book review at NYTimes site), an interesting contemporary story.

Provided that distribution would be assured!

After all, EmmaT did W;t for HBO . . .
Fausta, again
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 13:30:38 (PDT)

Tiens, tiens, on dirait que le français est à la mode tout à coup! Comment ce fait-ce? ;) And since Mr Rickman doesn't need an army of personal translators, I'm afraid it will have to be me, girls! ;) Alas, I suspect he doesn't even need one. I'm sure he can say 'La plume de ma tante' as well as Izzard (whom we know to be an expert in tantes (ouch!;). No disrespect meant towards Mr Rickman's aunt(s) if he has any, of course, fine ladies I'm sure. I also suspect he won't be able to sun his er, centre of gravity, in France for long when he has to be available to shoot Harry Potter III in England at the same time... which is a shame because that must mean he probably won't be able to direct any film on LeNôtre either, as that would definitely require his presence there during the whole time. Later, hopefully. If they let him out of the rest home ;). Uh, while I prefer his less mainstream, crowd-pleasing movies, it is indeed nice to think he is going to appear in one which *will* be released, thanks to 'big names' (can you tell I'm p*ssed off I can't see The Search for John Gissing? Flying to Canada, a beautiful country I'm sure, is somewhat out of the question.) By the way, wasn't Emma Thompson supposed to have given up film work? Glad she's back. Talking money, the Times had a whole-page financial interview of Emma Fielding on its back page the other day. Uh, there apparently are years when these actors starve themselves in the name of poorly-paid theatre work and hardly make 4 times what I earn in the name of public service. Time to go on strike, I say, I'll lead!;) Ah, well, the universities' graduate staff has just been offered a 3% pay increase, what am I complaining about? That should pay for one West End theatre ticket a year, the bus fare to get there and the meal afterwards ;)

Uh... so many posts, so little time to comment... I won't even try. Real life claims so much of one's time. But Julia, I must ask: in which Sherlock episode does JB sing? Pleaase? ;)

GML
UK - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 13:25:08 (PDT)

Oh please, no Andre Le Notre, no Roi Soleil, no XVIII century, no costume dramas, no bustles, no corsets, no landscape architects turning the dirt (and let me tell ya, ALNotre had to turn a whole lot of acreage -- Versailles is huge!), no loooong waits for finding distributors to yet another movie.

Give me a good comedy/drama in a contemporary setting, widely distributed around the world, featuring people dressed in comfortable clothes that fit!

Thank you
Fausta
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 13:14:49 (PDT)

Y ahora, saludos en espa¤ol.

The August Monthly Rickmanista (in English) is now on line
Fausta
- Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 12:51:21 (PDT)

Avec vue a cuppa ma cherie !!!!This ees for my leetle Eenglish churms LOL
Magda
Aberdeen *snickering*, - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 12:15:20 (PDT)

Sue, just a bit of quirky fun. Traducteur translates to "translator" or interpreter.
Jacqueline
Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 11:25:57 (PDT)

Enough French already!!!!LOL
Actually I manage to get the gist of most of this chat but always slip up on the vital words!!!-eg Traducteur??(some sort of teacher or something?)
Sue
Angleterre - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 11:08:07 (PDT)

Merci bien, mais je preferais etre une "costume slave" pour M. Rickman si on faire le film sur Andre le Notre. Et plus, je n'ai pas du temps etre "Oh captain, my captain" et le traducteur personnel de M. Rickman aussi!
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 10:09:05 (PDT)

Julia, c'est vrai que ton français est excellent !
Marialis
France - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 07:55:49 (PDT)

Sorry, that's Steppenwolf not Stephenwolf. (It's too early in the morning here.)
Jacqueline
Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 07:31:12 (PDT)

Today's Guardian has a Small Piece on "Love Actually"
Sue
England - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 07:14:56 (PDT)

Julia, vous m'étonnez avec votre Français merveilleux. Peut-être nous devrions vous commanditer comme traducteur personnel de M. Rickman! Also, I agree with Lily, if you are in or around Chicago this summer, go see the group at the Viaduct Theater. It too reminds me of the early Stephenwolf group and is a prize find for theater lovers.
Jacqueline
Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 07:03:44 (PDT)

Hey girls, now it’s your turn to work ! Repeat after me : “La Plume de ma tante…” ;o)
Marialis
France - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 02:57:46 (PDT)

A few people from Chicago and vicinity contribute to this Guestbook. I recommend "The Terrible Tragedy of Peter Pan" to them and anyone visiting here thru 8/31. It's being performed by the House Theater Company at the Viaduct Theater over on Belmont & Western. I saw it over the weekend and it's excellent. Many of the actors were undergrads at Southern Methodist Univ. in Dallas and then went on to study at the British American Drama Academy (BADA) where I believe AR teaches from time to time. (If you go to the BADA website, you'll find him listed as a guest teacher with the photo for him the same as the GQ pic leading into the GB.) The actors are in their 20s but several have real stage presence. They can act. The choreographed segments of physical theater are exceptionally well done. And, if you consider it was 90 degrees at night throughout the weekend, and the theater is in a flat-topped old garage without air-conditioning, not the best situation for really, really good performances and for audiences to be appreciative, it's damned near miraculous--but that's what happened. It's like a second chance to catch the Steppenwolf actors back in the basement up in Highland Park (a northern Chicago suburb). You can have a beer or whatever to cool off while you watch the performance but it is 2 hours without intermission. (I am not related to anyone in the group. I just enjoy theater.)
Lily <LilyChicago@hotmail.comfoo>
Chicago, IL - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 23:21:30 (PDT)

Aaaaah! Sunnypoppet! The tales that have been told (in whispers) about that Wounding Tongue... :aha See you later.
Jules
UK - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 21:51:40 (PDT)

Bravoooo, Barbara the Poet! Still laughing...
lelefua
stuttgart, - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 21:27:32 (PDT)

I LOVE ALAN!!!!!! TREMENDOUS TALENT AND SUCH A SHAME ITS OVERLOOKED!!!
emilee
tucson, AR - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 20:30:56 (PDT)

i would just like to comment on how great this GB is. I actually feel loved while in the company of fellow Rickmaniacs.:)...However, i have seen a few catfights appear on some of the posts.but i guess u'll have that.Anywho, enuff ranting...im off to watch TMD for the millionth time.night all:)
cindy
- Monday, July 29, 2002 at 20:26:10 (PDT)

I like your Site! Hello from california.
day trading <calif_chris@hotmail.comfoo>
sf, ca usa - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 19:59:32 (PDT)

Oui, Julia. Charmant! Good Luck! 'MSLinda':) LoL
M. S. Rickman
London, UK - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 19:55:01 (PDT)

Ahh, mais M. Rickman n'est pas un francophone, alors le francais n'est pas necessaire pour Georgiana et les autres Rickmaniac enthousiastes! Et plus, les vraies francaises peuvent traduiser pour notre pauvre acteur anglais! Charmant, non?
Julia, perfectly qualified for a trip to France)
Calgary, Canada - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 19:18:54 (PDT)

IMDB has a listing for "Love Actually", says it will film in London and has a budget of £30 million.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 19:01:37 (PDT)

Thanks for all the help with the Mesmer info, especially to the gal (a thousand pardons since I can't remember your name) who sent in the sound wavs. I even made a little movie on my movie shaker program using pictures and using the "swoon" wav. Where did you get the wavs. I've been looking on the main site but the link just says that it's being updated? Thanks a bunch. You're the best. Thanks for making me feel welcome. So.... who's skipping work just to see Alan Rickman as Snape in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"? :) I've downloaded the full trailer and just pause it on Snape.
Catherine
Chicago, - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 18:26:50 (PDT)

Yes, Sally, which is why I responded that, summer or no, the remaining month's worth of practice would not be adequate to repair my poor French.
Georgiana
Seattle - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 18:11:02 (PDT)

I just noticed that Alan is a workaholic.

Linda- I don't they have put a release date for the new movie.

I am certainly going to go see it once it comes out. The actors/actresses are all a perfect fit for each other. It should be interesting.
Jasmine
Hmmm...Haven't heard from Jezebel in a while. (I don't know if that is good or bad.) States - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 17:47:36 (PDT)

Thanks to all for posting the info in regards to his new movie. This may be too early to know, but has anyone heard of an expected release date for the film?
Linda
NJ USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 16:36:31 (PDT)

I do hasten to add that is what Hezzer said in French below and has nothing to do with me!
Sally
Sydney, Aus - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 16:31:09 (PDT)

Georgiana - my french is quite useless as well. Thank goodness for babelfish (found at the altavista website as "translate") I don't know if its french humour or not, but this is the vaguely saracastic translation:

I believe that it is necessary that Georgiana practises French during this ete, before she takes her holidays in France in September!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 16:30:11 (PDT)

I love AR. His talent is unmeasurable and anyone who thinks other wise doesn't know what talent is!
Chris
uk - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 15:22:14 (PDT)

Hello all!
I was busy for a while and didn't visit our GB... A BIG MISTAKE as I found out just a few minutes ago. I nearly missed the news about HIM playing a part in a film in the near future. Uff... that was close.

About that *w... tongue* he admits he sometimes has. Hm. I can imagine that he might be fed up with someone or something sometimes and then he simple says something mean to get his freedom back. He's only human like the rest of us and might have mood swings and such. We only want him to be so nice... makes him more adorable.
Well, I'm glad there are some *bad habits* or *not-so-nice* corners in his character - I couldn't love a perfect image.
OK. I'll stop... but I'm getting excited about the new film. I hope we get to know more about it soon.
But why doesn't this man go on holidays after that long time on the stage with PL for almost every night during the last 10 months?? He's a workaholic. I hope he won't get health problems because he doesn't get enough rest (ok, it's his decision... but no, I want him healthy for ages)... a concerned Sunny
Sunny
Germany - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 15:17:30 (PDT)

Catherine, Reading --
"Alan, how we love your trousers?" *peals of laughter* Although, I confess, that I often have to look askance at Alan's sartorial choices in the trousers department....

"Alan's Trousers, a Poem Alan's trousers are often plaid
I confess I think that makes them bad
But what makes other women sad
Is that trousers aren't a passing fad.

No, Alan's trousers are always there
Though many cry, "That isn't fair!"
Wee confine ourselves to The Hair,
For Alan's trousers are always there

But, harken! Hark! Homage to Him!
Through worlds whose chances grow ever slim
And limited by decree and whim
We still can watch our Alan swim.

So, in this ode to skill and chance,
We homage to Alan's pants.

" This dose of silliness brought to you by WBtW, your Silliness Station....

I'm sorry, I just couldn't help myself...
Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Monday, July 29, 2002 at 15:14:11 (PDT)

Alas, my French is so poor, a month wouldn't be enough.
Georgiana (planning on a dino dig in China next spring instead...) <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 15:07:13 (PDT)

Je crois qu'il faut que Georgiana pratique le francais pendant cet ete, avant qu'elle prend ses vacances en France au mois de septembre!
hezzer
UK - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 14:08:49 (PDT)

just browing the GB and i mustt say its so nice to finally find a place to talk about AR and not feel so out of place. LOL. Many of my friends feel as though im insane for having an interest in such a reserved man but i am happy that ive found ppl are are such as crazy for him as i .:)
fran
Tarzana, CA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 13:47:19 (PDT)

NO, I can't believe my ears !!! The cast of "Love actually" should be in France in september ?? So maybe AR will be there too. Whaouh, I hope we'll be able to know where will be the shoot, I'll be somewhere near for sure. Welcome to France to Alan Rickman and all the Guestbooker.
Nathalie
paris., - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 13:44:23 (PDT)

OFT: For those of you planning to be in NY to see PL (or those who have made it a second a home (*wicked grin* Georgiana!), if you'd like to see Les Miz next door, there are 50% off tickets available through September 30. Here is the info:

ORDERING INFO: Call (212) 947-8844 and mention code LMDAG23
OFFER: 50% off all locations
OFFER VALID: For Monday-Thursday evening performances, through September 30, 2002.
SEAT location: Sale applies to all locations in the house except those regularly priced at $20.
TICKET LIMIT: 6 tickets per order
I hope someome can use this discount!

Renie <reniept@hotmail.com foo>
- Monday, July 29, 2002 at 11:24:48 (PDT)

Of course Lelefua, you're right... This hot and stormy weather had driving me dumb all day long ! My brain doesn't work as normal !
Well great new today : a film with AR but also with lot of great actors I love and made by the director of "Four weddings..." and "Notting Hill..."... but well, as a french I would say that the cherry on the cake (I mean the little thing that makes something perfect) is that some shots will take place in France ! It's so rare. I think it will be the first time for AR...
Marialis
France - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 10:44:42 (PDT)

Ananova have a report on the AR/HG new movie story too.
Sue
Well if it's in Ananova, it MUST be true!!(snorfle!), England - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 08:57:08 (PDT)

Independent 26th July report aAppointment of Stephen Boyd to RSC.

>........"Boyd, the frontrunner and staff favourite to succeed Adrian Noble, said he wanted to encourage the return of past stars such as Alan Rickman, Lindsay Duncan and Vanessa Redgrave.".......
Sue
England - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 08:44:30 (PDT)

Alan Rickman, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth.....all in the same movie!!!!!???!!This could be a little hard to take:))) (Not forgetting ET and Bill Nighy, as well)
Sue
England - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 08:39:29 (PDT)

"Love Actually" looks more and more interesting. This description was in the Guardian in March:

"Screenwriter Richard Curtis looks set to surprise his fans when he makes his directorial debut later this year. His first film is already being described as closer to a Robert Altman movie than the simple romantic comedies with which he made his name.

At first glance, Love Actually appears to be in much the same vein as such former Curtis hits as Notting Hill, Bridget Jones's Diary and Four Weddings and a Funeral. Like them, it will star Hugh Grant, who will play a lonely-heart prime minister who falls for the Downing Street tea lady on his first day at Number 10.

But it transpires that the PM-in-love story is just one of many narratives in a dense, multi-strand drama. "The new film will have ten different plotlines and Grant's is just one of them," Adam Dawtrey, the European editor of Variety, today tells the Independent. "This is a multi-story concept, stylistically like a Robert Altman film."

Love Actually will be produced by Working Title and backed by Universal and Canal Plus. Filming is scheduled to begin in London in August."
Magda
Canada - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 08:31:57 (PDT)

Now that is promising news! With Hugh Grant in it, it's definitely going to get released and widely distributed so that's one thing we won't have to worry about.
Magda
Canada - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 08:20:10 (PDT)

Wasn't someone just wondering why AR wasn't in Gosford Park? This looks to be our Rickman & friends version.
Cindie
- Monday, July 29, 2002 at 08:14:14 (PDT)

Georgina, thank you very much, wonderful news! I liked Liam Neeson as Michael Collins very much. Oh, how long will we have to wait to see this film. I think it will be great fun for Mr. Rickman to work with his friends in this new movie.
lelefua
Stuttgart, - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 07:30:00 (PDT)

How about a 'working vacation' in France with all your friends? For news about what Mr. Rickman will be doing when "Private Lives," a year-long effort, closes, see the News page.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 07:18:32 (PDT)

Marialis, I think he means doing just chatt chatt chatt and not mention that somebody is hurt, or not thinking about who is listening and could be hurt before speaking. But I don't think he does such things, he's too much caring with other people and to have his body and tongue under control is his excellent done profession.
lelefua
stuttgart, - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 07:12:53 (PDT)

Caution-pushing the "PG-13" envelope- Cynthia, I profitted from teen obsession whilst a teen myself. I used to draw pictures of friends "en flagrante" with their favorite Beatle for barter or cash, or with a family of children that bore too obvious a resemblance to, say, Mick Jagger (little realizing the potential verity of such art in future!) I also don't think many younger GBers realize how difficult it was to see rare or even out of general release movies in the pre-video era. Obsession is far easier now!
FastFilm
Los Angeles, - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 07:00:03 (PDT)

Do you mean that he could hurt somebody on purpose… just to hurt him… just for the pleasure to hurt him ? Well… there is some Snape in this man ! Well… I’ve got to get used to the idea that he’s not perfect now that I know that !
Marialis
France - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 06:44:40 (PDT)

Marialis: "The Wounding Tongue" is making a statement that hurts the feelings of another.
Mesmer's Patient
- Monday, July 29, 2002 at 05:50:56 (PDT)

Hey Cynthia ! Only fourteen ? I‘m still dreaming to the way Alan Rickman will be overwhelmed with passion when he will have the chance to meet me ! But hush… I’m not as candid as Cyndi… I haven’t told it to my husband !
Uh... and what is the "wounding tongue" ?
Marialis
France - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 05:45:42 (PDT)

Ok i was just on a web site and stumbled apon a Kate & Leapold movie review and it said that "Jackman hopes to create film work back home through a production company he has started with Furness and English actor Alan Rickman. " Is this true...I do love the GB a try to look at it when ever i can but i do not remeber seeing any thing about this. I think it might havee just sliped my mind..i dont know.
Bev <beverldiane515@yahoo.comfoo>
Ga - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 23:53:46 (PDT)

link
Just for fun
lelefua
- Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 23:40:19 (PDT)

Speaking of Tom Selleck, I met him not too long ago and yes, he has aged, but he still looks fine and he still has that great laugh. I've always loved his laugh. But he still doesn't come close to Alan.
Desdemona, The Gypsy Queen of New Orleans
USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 23:39:14 (PDT)

WPP, thank you so much for telling us who was with Alan at the Emmy's. Now, the 64 million dollar question, who was with him at this year's Tony's? I said it was his sister, but I would gladly be proven wrong for the sake of accuracy.
Cynthia
CA USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 21:38:56 (PDT)

I can't imagine a 14 year old girl not fantasizing that someone,(anyone-a boy at school, an actor of whatever age, a character in a book, a rock star etc.), is her boyfriend. When I was a teenager I stayed up until 2am to watch any movie with Marlon Brando in it, and he must have fallen in love with me a million different ways in my dreams. I had to break his heart a few times too. Anyway, Alan says his worst vice is a wounding tongue. What do you think of that women? Welcome back Marialis, it's nice to hear your french accent again!
Cynthia
CA USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 21:01:35 (PDT)

Hey, I have three goats... does that count? *heh* (sorry, just dropped by...)
Diane <crescentmoonluna@aol.comfoo>
- Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 19:08:13 (PDT)

I would like to clarify a couple things. The first of which is that I'm not an actress. As for my encounter with Mr. Langella--at that first meeting, he hadn't a notion as to who I am. In subsequent meetings, we exchanged hallos and how's-it-goings. Though acquainted, I wouldn't call us close. ;-) I was simply touched by his kindness to a stranger. As for any acquaintance with AR--we've met, we have friends and associates in common, and I hope, one day, to be fortunate enough to work with him.
WPP
The Apple, - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 18:44:31 (PDT)

I share a last name with one of the NSYNC kids. Every so often, I will get email from a determined fan, wondering if I am an aunt and if so, could I be useful in getting her in contact with said boy? Most fans imagine themselves in a romantic relationship with the object of their admiration, and leave it at that. These girls plan to move their dreams into action, and they aren't kidding. On the one hand, it's a little scary that someone could be that determined. OTOH, I imagine what they will be like when they have a career and their boss tells them "Accomplish X." Nothing on earth will stop them and they have experience being creative with problem solving. Kinda wasted effort or practice when it's chasing stars, but I expect I will wind up working for one of them, sooner or later, when they apply their skills to the job market. Achievers. Definitely achievers.
Cyndi
Hollister, CA USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 18:20:32 (PDT)

Hi Sally - I couldnt agree more, I cant understand some having to know such things. I am a tiny bit curious, I must say,about Alan and Ms. Horton, but I would never goes as far as some to find out what is their relationship. Again, I am not trying to be hurtful to those of you who have to know. I am just in admiration of the man, and the actor and knowing if he is or isnt married wont change that fact

P.S. Tom Selleck has always been a favorite of mine. Do you remember in the opening credits of Magnum P.I. when the car was stopped and he turned and looked into the camera and gave that little smile, then sped off. WOW! :o)
Linda
NJ USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 16:49:58 (PDT)

Tami - had to laugh at your comment. I've had some persistant fans want me to clarify to the finest detail that he is NOT married but may as well be considered off limits. You're right - I don't know why it should be so important, particularly when a the most persistant ones are only old enough to be his grand-daughters. Try as I might, at the age of 14, I didn't fantacise about running away with (postively ancient to me then) Tom Selleck of Richard Hatch - I just covered my wall with their pictures and avidly watched Magnum PI and Battlestar Galactica and maybe did a sketch of two. But it never entered my mind to fantacise about them as a boyfriend or something!
Sally
Sydney, Aus - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 16:32:15 (PDT)

Further to the IP thing - if I logged into my internet provider in Australia while travelling overseas, I would still register as having an IP address (unless my ISP has started to provide non static IP addresses) so I would still register has having logged in from Australia - even if I was typing away from a hotel in NY! If I was a member of compuserve or AOL, I would have an american IP regardless of where I was in the world. It means little.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 16:25:50 (PDT)

Annette - i would love to know how one would perpetrate this gross invasion of privacy by tracking down somoene's IP address. However, from my background experience, there are plenty of providers out there who are thoroughly generic -many ISPs in Australia will only go to a .com level so I don't necessarily know if someone visiting my site is from Australia or overseas. Anyway, WHO CARES??? If someone wants to brag about being a relative to AR, WHO CARES??? They don't seem to impart any invasive sensative information for the man, which may be out of respect for AR or it might be because they get to meet AR as many times as I got to meet my great uncle, a very famous member of the Three Goons i.e. never. Being a relative is hardly a golden passport to being a part of the inner possy of that celebrity! So ultimately, if you are offended by their claims, ignore them - because for every reason in this GB who flares up about it, there are probably 200 who don't care.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 16:22:33 (PDT)

Listen up, film distributors! 'Looking for John Gissing' was by far the most popular film at the recent Toronto Britpics Festival. And that's official.

And, while I'm on the subject - another TART who went to the second showing of the film says that there are several cameos by well known British actors in the film. She cites seeing John Cleese in a brief shot. Darn, missed that.
Gail
Toronto, Canada - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 15:27:18 (PDT)

This is pasted from the PBS website. Check your local listings. AR is mentioned here. BECKETT ON FILM Premieres Sept. 15, 2002 at 10:00 PM (EST and Jan. 1, 2003 at 9:30 PM (EST) Jeremy Irons hosts two special evenings showcasing new film adaptations of the plays of Samuel Beckett. Seven short works and Beckett's masterpiece, "Waiting for Godot," are performed and directed by leading names of stage and screen, including David Mamet, Harold Pinter, Anthony Minghella, Kristin Scott Thomas, Alan Rickman, and John Gielgud.
Juliana
- Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 14:31:21 (PDT)

i think alan is such a great talent.He portrays his characters so well it just amazes me that he has been overlooked by so many.
leah
- Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 12:19:04 (PDT)

I think MsLinda's about to get her bottom smacked, and sadly for her it won't be by her Uncle Alan!
Jules
UK - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 10:08:55 (PDT)

All right Anon, I understand you better now. Your message surprised me yesterday and I was not sure to understand what you meant.

FastFilm,you don’t only teaches me a slang word… I had to take my dictionary to understand you ! Your vocabulary is so rich ! About my “gala soiree”, the anecdote I told you took place few years ago. Since that day, I’ve learnt to behave like them and not to allow them to act this way with me. I’m shy but I’m proud !… and I’m also older ! But well… thinking back to it, you’re right I have modelled myself upon someone… I haven’t realized it before I read you…
Marialis
France - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 06:23:54 (PDT)

......I think MsLinda's got your goat or goats, as it may be.........
Mesmer's Patient
- Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 05:11:31 (PDT)

...and who will join me in the search for the three billy goats gruff?
Jules
UK - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 01:52:01 (PDT)

What's the big deal about MsLinda? I don't get it. WHY is it so important to know how (or if) she's related?? Would it make a difference if she said she was his cousin? His Aunt? His niece? His sister? His grandmother? I think not. And would you believe her any more or less than you do now? Probably not. Well, okay, if she said she was his grandmother, I'd have my doubts. LOL The point I'm trying to make is, it doesn't matter! It was a pleasure chatting with her and I hope she returns. Whether or not I believe her is MY decision. Besides, if I was related, I sure wouldn't reveal how, either!
S. F. Attendant
- Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 22:08:19 (PDT)

Hi, I found your site and spent a while here. It's quite interesting and informative...I'll probably visit again soon. take care, chris
day trading <calif_chris@hotmail.comfoo>
sf, ca usa - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 18:46:57 (PDT)

Interesting article from Variety on News page - thanks Georgiana.
Judy
Sydney, NSW Australia - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 18:36:35 (PDT)

Why does the image of a Troll come to mind?
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 18:05:56 (PDT)

Greetings Guestbook members, I'm really sorry if this started a useless discussion about whether AR's friends and/or relatives have the right to visit him when he's on tour (or not). It is clear that they DO have the right to accompany him. If you were interested in the internet connection, it has always been a Roaming Service I use everywhere in the world when I travel and never a computer from any US university or whatever. I really enjoyed the chats the past weeks. Thank you very much for your time. Good Luck, 'Linda' "University of Southern California - London Branch" ;) P.S.: I will 'not' answer 'any' posts following this one nor participate for it is not my intention to continue with this rather useless discussion. Thank you very much.
M S. Rickman
London , England - UK - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 17:52:08 (PDT)

I would like to weigh in on the 'Who is MsLinda' topic and hopefully there won't be flame-mail sent to me or posted here on the GB. I was on this GB chat several weeks ago when she was there. As anybody knows who has been on chat with her, she was very evasive about answering questions about how she is related to Alan, or answering personal questions about him. She's told stories about being on movie sets which some people have said are public knowledge, so no new information was being revealed. I've chatted off-line with some who don't believe her, as some have posted here, but there are those who do believe she is who she says she is. One way to ferret out the truth, in internet-land, is to trace someone's IP address to determine if they truly are posting from where they say they are. She claimed she has been in NY with Alan while he's been doing Private Lives.
I was on this GB chat briefly last Thursday, however I wasn't on when MsLinda appeared. I was advised that she did appear later in the evening, but also appearing were a bunch of numbers next to everyone's log-in names. These numbers were people's IP addresses. MsLinda's IP addresses, there were 2, were forwarded to me and a friend. My friend was able to trace her numbers, and MsLinda appears to be using a computer from The University of Southern California! How someone can claim they are in NY and have their IP addresses show as originating in California is puzzling to me. Unless they are not being truthful about who and where they are. So, you can take this information as you wish.
I also want to add for people not to be alarmed about the IP addresses appearing. They merely give an area or a city or a university or government id for a location. They don't give one's exact home, work or school address. So, if these numbers continue to appear on the chat, don't be alarmed that someone can come knocking on your door and say 'Hey, aren't you ... from chat?'.
Annette <annettegeisel@charter.netfoo>
Mansfield, Tx - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 15:33:24 (PDT)

One more comment and I'll get down off my soapbox. How many of us haven't waited in a doctor's office to be seen? I've waited up to four hours after my scheduled appointment time to see the doctor and I'm paying him. Someone should be paying me to wait, I mean, my time is money also. I'll gladly wait to meet Alan and it's not costing me a cent.
Desdemona, The Gypsy Queen of New Orleans
USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 13:20:57 (PDT)

I feel that the fact Alan takes the time to sign autographs and pose for pictures is very kind of him. It's been said before that it is not in his contract to stop after the show or come out between shows to do these things. He's getting paid the same amount whether he plays to twenty people or a full house and a know there's no clause about him getting an added bonus for signing autographs. About him having backstage guests, it's his right to have guests, isn't it? Don't we all have friends or family who come to visit us? Many of the people who come to visit him backstage (other actors,etc.) probably aren't going to visit him where he's staying in Uptown Manhattan. Many of the times that he walks out of that stage door, I'm sure he justs wants to run into his town car or run down the street screaming, especially when he has to do two shows in one day. He is physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted after the show. I don't blame him for wanting to have a glass of wine and visiting with family/friends after the show. He needs to relax after giving his all for the performance. There are many actors (who are nowhere nearly as talented as Alan) who will keep fans waiting for an hour or two before they come out and will not take the time to sign autographs or pose for pictures. As far as the people waiting outside to get his autograph, etc., someone said they are doctors, lawyers, etc. I know plenty of doctors and lawyers who won't take the extra time to speak with the general public outside of their paid visit. They associate with other doctors, lawyers, etc. We should all be thankful that Alan takes time out of his own personal schedule to meet with his fans.
Desdemona, the Gypsy Queen of New Orleans
USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 13:10:22 (PDT)

Didn't mean to start a fracas, just responding to the comment about FL and pointing out that an encounter between colleagues is more of a social occasion than standing at a stage door waiting for an autograph. Yes, it is nice of Rickman to not slag us off and sign autographs. And yes, he does look knackered some of the time. He has said that the stage door autograph thing is "part of the job" and "doesn't take too long". Sometimes he even seems to enjoy it. I know that there were lawyers, doctors, nurses,teachers etc, in the crowd waiting, because it was two hours before Rickman et all came out. While I was appreciative of his efforts, I am not prepared to elevate him to sainthood for spending two minutes signing my program while I waited two hours for him to come out. No, he didn't have to, and no, I didn't have to. I wanted to compliment the other performers on their performance, as I won't be seeing the play again. Lots of us work long hours and put in overtime and have to be nice to people when we are tired. I am glad that Rickman can provide an escape valve, and have no intention of implying that he doesn't do his bit to make the world a better place to be. I guess I am past the worshipful stage, or maybe too old...I will take my leave now...
anon
- Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 11:35:29 (PDT)

AR book alert:

TINY TINY little reference to him in one of the early stories in "Big Night Out," the book he did one of the illustrations for. It's in the story about the cruise ship. Made me giggle, heck.

Fun book, BTW--very well worth ordering. Good summer reading for a good cause!
Melissa from Michigan <melissa@wkar.orgfoo>
E. Lansing, MI USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 09:54:51 (PDT)

Marialis, I actually enjoyed your long treatise on the true nature of stardom, fandom, and their interaction. Since I've always lived the "company town" of Hollywood and our provincial custom of ignoring the famous, I was glad to be reminded of how you and everyone here come to grips with balancing admiration versus respect. As a photojournalist I was never one of those "jump out of the bushes at restaurants to ambush celebs" type, but I am somewhat resentful of celebs at actual promotional functions shunning the press, since those promotional functions were intended as mutually beneficial. All I wanted was a flattering shot of so and so at their awards ceremony that I was invited to by them as press, for example. Also Marialis, that caste system exists in all professions. I am not so successful in mine because I am not a natural "schmoozer" (now there's a great slang word for your English studies), someone who can make people who don't know them want whatever they are selling, albeit sales items, or themself. My suggestion for your next gala soiree? Watch someone who is good at this, and try to do your version of it. P.S. your English is absolutely great.
FastFilm
Los Angeles, - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 09:46:21 (PDT)

Not sure if this is a good idea to jump in the fray. I don't remember "Linda's" post and really don't care to go back through the GB to find it, but the evening before I saw PL, the theater we left routed us out a door that put us right next to the RR Theater. My friend and I decided to walk over and see if AR was doing autographs. He came out just a minute or two later. There was an attractive, sweet faced,lady with him(not Ms Horton). She went ahead and got in the "limo" and waited. The next night, when we actually saw the play, after getting his autograph, I wanted to snap a few more photos and walked around to the opposite side. My friend (who did not know who AR was before NY)stayed on the right side and began talking with the same lady I saw getting in the limo the night before. She surmised she was indeed a relative, she thought an Aunt. My friend said how nice it was of him to take his time to sign, that he appeared very tired and the lady said he was.She and AR walked down the street when he finished signing for his fans. The only reason I decided to post this is to say it may be possible there is a relative visiting him in NY and maybe it would be well not to doubt so quickly.
Eileen
Fl USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 09:41:24 (PDT)

I just read that Alfonso Cuaron--director of "Y Tu Mama Tambien"--will direct HP3. Interesting, no? Current controversy on GB also of interest.
Lily <LilyChicago@hotmail.comfoo>
Chicago, IL - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 09:39:27 (PDT)

Lelefua, Are you talking about the pic of him sitting on the stairs? If so, it is a great shot.

To add to the autograph/stage door comments. I dont think Alan owes us anything at the stage door. I will say that when he is on stage, I would hope that he was doing his best. But I paid to watch him perform, and dont expect anything else. I must say, it is an added bonus to be able to talk with him, and pose for pictures with him. The times that I met him were very exciting for me. And I feel that my admiration for him has grown because of his kindness. I dont think that he would stay out at the stage door if he didnt want to. I don't think it is in his contract to be nice, I think thats just "him". This is not meant in any hurtful way, I am just giving you my personal opinion. Thanks for letting me share my thoughts
Linda
NJ USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 09:15:55 (PDT)

"How would you like to work your tail off all day long and then come out and sign autographs, etc, just to make other people happy?" I think that would be very nice. No one asks for my autograph after work, but they do sometimes ask me to stay overtime, or yell about projects that aren't done yet. If I'm really lucky, someone will flip me off in traffic on the way home. I'm with anon. It is nice of Alan to sign autographs, and there's nothing wrong with being excited about meeting him for a moment. It does not, however, make him the same as someone giving cheese to the poor. If you sent me the bios of all the fans waiting for his autograph after a play, it's quite possible I would admire some of the fans' life achievements even more than Alan's. I might even ask for your autograph.
Unpopular
- Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 07:13:07 (PDT)

Anon, I don’t really understand you. You know that he can’t allow 5O persons per performance to enter in his dressing-room… So what do you want him to do exactly ? Do you want him to ask to the crowd : “OK, if you’re a doctor, a lawyer, a nurse, if you think you have some social usefulness, you can come in…” ?

But about WPP’s story, yes may be FL would have act differently with a fan. No-one could be sure. We often say that artists are a big family. I think it’s quite the same for every profession. I don’t know how it is in your countries but in France I find we have a society made of casts… I hate that. I’m sometimes so angry against people closed within their cast and despising others… I have been once with my boss in a sort of cocktail. I had to be there for some reason I don’t remember. There were all the doctors, lawyers, political men… in short, all the aristocracy and bourgeoisie of our little town… Most of them haven’t told me hello. They didn’t even answer to my smile ! ! It was as if I was transparent as a glass ! I felt so humiliated ! But I’ve met some of these persons since that evening… and they have been charming ! But at the cocktail, they were altogether and they had a strong cast feeling… Everywhere there is recognition of fellows… But certainly, the one who acts the same way with everyone in every occasion is a real gentleman… or Lady. I think they are few. I like to believe Alan Rickman is one of them, even if he can’t invite all his fans in the theatre after shows…
I would like to add that I think that in the case of famous artists there must be the fear to be monopolized by a fan. It is very different to sign autographs at the exit of the theatre and to meet a fan in a lift, in a shop or so… it could be a fan very respectful, who understand that you’re not in show at the present moment… but it could be also someone thinking you have to have a conversation with him because you’re famous. Some persons think it’s a due ! I’ve met once, while I was visiting “Le Mont Saint Michel”, very touristy place in France, a famous French singer I do love a lot. I was with my husband and I murmur him, showing him the singer discreetly “Look, it is Alain Souchon”. The singer saw us and quickly took the hand of his wife and went off the room… We were in an old church and he was wearing sunglasses… Poor man ! We met him again later and we just smiled at him… Then he understood that we didn’t want to annoy him… He is famous but he had the right to be a man just like another and to visit le Mont Saint Michel quietly with his wife ! .
About the usefulness of people, I like to think that everybody could be useful in this world. I think your heart and your acts say if you’re useful or not… not your job. And it makes the choice of “who could enter into the dressing-room? issue” much more difficult !

Well, I have finished to tell you the story of my life for today ! Hope I haven’t been too long ! And hope you can understand all my sentences ! I know I’ve got problems with grammar and especially with tenses… I don’t always know when I’ve got to use preterit or present perfect. If I make big mistakes… could someone tell me by e-mail. It helps me to correct my faults. Thank you by advance !
Marialis <marialisse@tiscali.frfoo>
France - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 05:28:09 (PDT)

Suzanne :)Whooar thanks for the soundwaves.What a fabulous wake up call.

Magda G, Hey you're up early.Not by any chance finishing the latest chapter of The Journal!!
No pressure of course LOL .Just being impatient as usual:))
Magda
Aberdeen(especially the trains they have to tie up with string), - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 05:25:55 (PDT)

Sue in Lincoln, you have mail! Thanks in advance.
Catherine - dontcha just love the UK railways! <catherineharpham@hotmail.comfoo>
Reading, England - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 04:39:56 (PDT)

Sigh. That is, of course, "throw a rock". I need tea.
Magda
Canada - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 04:07:45 (PDT)

Leaving aside the philosophical question of whether any of us has a "right" to know anything about anyone else, the unfortunate fact, Jezebel, is that we have no sure way of knowing whether MsLinda is who she claims she is. You either believe her or you don't. Debating it on the GB would be a waste of space and probably not change anyone's mind. The only relatively (no pun intended) way to check would be if one of those going to PL in the next week asks AR at the stage door if he's had a member of his family staying in NY for most of the run; if he responds with a blank is-this-person-on-a-day-pass-funny-she-looked-normal stare or if he reacts more personally, then we might have our answer.

BTW, there are an increasing number of anonymous postings on here lately and they are not serving to elevate the tone of the GB. There are of course valid reasons why people like WPP and FastFilm can't reveal their names but some others are using it as a cover to through a rock at someone or something and run away. This is an abuse of Suzanne's hospitality and tolerance.

Magda
Canada - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 04:06:11 (PDT)

Carolee, you are right 100 percent. I work 2 jobs and am in school. There are times I have so much stress it is not even funny. When I need to DESTRESS, it is watching AR movies and the like that makes me feel better. He does a great deal for lots of people. All the best to you on finding a permanent position.
Juliana
- Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 03:23:32 (PDT)

Catherine, Reading - did you have any luck with the CME video hunt? If not, I may be able to help, if you'd like to email me suethompson90@hotmail.com then we can talk about it on there?
Anne - Manhatten, glad you managed, albeit unwillingly, the vageries of what we laughingly call a railway system! All part of the UK holiday experience!
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 01:50:47 (PDT)

Anon said
"Lets keep things in perspective, shall we? It may be "nice" of Rickman to sign a few autographs at the stage door, but it really doesn't cost too much compared with working at three jobs to feed your family, does it."

Okay, "anon", let's talk about this.

I just lost my job due to "downsizing", and a good part of what is keeping me from going *insane* because I can't figure out why I was let go instead of some certain other people, but that's a long story!!!! is being able to lose myself in this AR stuff-I must have watched HP 57 million times over the past few days, for example-it's the best escapist AR flick I've got. (And if my Phantom and Les Mis music was on vinyl, I'd have worn holes in it by now-thank goodness it's on cd's). It's not the only thing, of course, I'm very, very, very lucky to live with lots of wonderful, supportive family members and we can get by with what they make plus my unemployment until school starts again and I can start subbing. But that's not the point.

So, what is my point? How much of my Harry Potter purchase price actually went to AR? Like a penny or something? This is charity work he's doing here, keeping me from going insane. And that's not even mentioning the vicareous thrills I get from reading about other people's stage door experiences, etc.

And, more importantly, this is just about me, one single solitary person. How many other people are out there having similar experiences? How many other people does AR help get through rough spots in life, one way or another, and he doesn't even know it?

So, yes, doctors and lawyers and all that are important. We shouldn't forget that. But actors do their part too, and AR is really going above and beyond the call of duty. How would you like to work your tail off all day long and then come out and sign autographs, etc, just to make other people happy? Please take a look at some of these stage door pictures that have been posted where he looks dead on his feet-that will bring some "perspective".

~`@
Carolee <carolee3976@yahoo.comfoo>
Demotte, IN USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 01:28:54 (PDT)

On Tammi's side "From his own lips" there is a new pic, I didn't know it yet, it's WOOOW!link
lelefua
stgt, - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 01:07:58 (PDT)

Bravo Julia... now you're the "Captain oh my captain" of the Alan Rickman Poets Society... ! And congratulations of course to all the poets...
Marialis
France - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 00:51:03 (PDT)

I think to take time for someone is today one of the most precious presents one could give.
lelefua
stgt, - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 00:08:13 (PDT)

Anon, what do you want to tell us, it was lost time for you to wait at the stage door, why did you do then? Or did you wait with a friend you accompanied, why don't you see it as a present you gave him or her.
lelefua
stgt, - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 00:03:01 (PDT)

Signing autographs at the stage door is a part of his job, and takes only 15-20 minutes-much different from a social situation with a colleague, which is what WPP was talking about, albeit with a different actor than Rickman. When I was there, waiting at the stage door for Rickman to come out, I chatted with a lawyer. Who knows if there was a doctor, a teacher, a nurse, a mother even-all people who have also enriched the world and made it a better place to be. Some of them might have made laws that benefit humanity, or saved someone's life. Lets keep things in perspective, shall we? It may be "nice" of Rickman to sign a few autographs at the stage door, but it really doesn't cost too much compared with working at three jobs to feed your family, does it.
anon
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 23:07:41 (PDT)

Hi Anon, I think WPP didn't tell us anything about meeting AR, and even if so, what should AR do? Invite all the people at the stage door to come in??? I think it's very generous of him to come out after each performance and take time for his fans.
lelefua
stgt, - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 22:28:08 (PDT)

WPP, of course he was nice to you, as you are a fellow actor. The actors went right to the stage door, went in and visited with Rickman-the rest of us had to stand outside and wait until after the lot of them finished visiting, "schmoozing" and quaffing wine. Congratulations on being one of the chosen few while the rest of us stand outside....
anon
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 22:16:11 (PDT)

Hi, Linda/NJ. The "Dark Harbor" DVD doesn't have too many specials -- sound options, scene selection, director's comments, cast/crew lists. But the director's comments are extensive -- they start with the opening scene and continue to the credits. You get to see the whole movie again with his comments. He talks about splicing, about camera angles, about fog machines, where scenes were shot, how they were shot, the order in which they were shot. The commentary takes some of the magic out of the movie, i.e. willing suspension of disbelief, but it is really revealing.
Toby
Newtown, CT US - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 21:43:16 (PDT)

I thought I should say hello. Although new to this GB, I'm a long-time admirer of AR's work. Theatre has been my passion and my living for 30+ years. Some years ago, I was fortunate to have unlimited access to a show featuring two astonishing English actors. I'm delighted that they're back on the NY stage. Who else? A trivial addendum: the woman with AR at the Emmys is Judy Hofflund, then his manager, I believe. She went on to produce a dreadful film "8MM", the only redeeming moments of which belong to Jim Gandolfini. As for Anne's brief--and coolish--encounter with Frank Langella. FL was rehearsing "Fortune's Fool" in the same facility in which I had a show rehearsing. We'd not met; I was (as were we all) simply aware of his presence. Late one night, I'd stepped into the elevator, and, as the door began to close, a voice called "Hold that!" I did. It was FL. He strode in, thanked me, the doors closed, and we began our descent. We made small talk to the ground floor and through the lobby, and then we walked out into a particularly raw late winter night. I turned to walk east and he called "Are you catching a cab?" I replied that I was. He flagged a cab and tucked me into it before catching his own car. One class act. Heard there's a revival of Larry Gelbart's "Sly Fox" in the works with FL as Slywell Fox (saw Robert Preston do it the first time 'round). Can't wait.
WPP
The Apple, - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 21:28:26 (PDT)

Sue/Lincoln - We just missed each other - I arrived in Stratford Wednesday 7/17, left Sunday 7/21, spent the rest of a too-short vacation with friends on the outskirts of London. Had a lovely time except for a missed connection in Birmingham - why do you people say "platform alteration" when you mean "track change"? - I sat there watching my train pull in and out on the other side and never knew it was my train.
Anne/Manhattan
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 21:25:51 (PDT)

i think alan is a tremdous talent and i love him to death. :)
lilly
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 20:36:35 (PDT)

Wow, I love the poems! They are terrific!!! Totally uplifted my day! Thanks yall! I missed the one about the shirt though, I can't find it! Well, I'm off for Four Days of Canoeing and camping. Can't wait to catch up on the GB when I return. Yall all have a good one! (Can't you tell I still haven't quite learned how to do the paragraph thing? Sorry.)
JC <Alvin415@aol.comfoo>
Mississippi, but not for long. - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 20:28:45 (PDT)

MA-I stayed because I heard that it was an interesting chat. I was waiting for an interesting conversation to start. It didn't.

Jasmine-- I think this topic should be commented on. IF Linda is lying, we should have a right to. I simply want to know why she won't tell us how she is related to him.
Jezebel
Frustrated on so many levels. - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 19:57:35 (PDT)

Catherine, I love and adore Mesmer. He is on the screen the whole time . He has some really good lines. He is very nurturing and caring in this role. Yes, great hand scenes. This movie is based on the real Franz Anton Mesmer. I highly recommed it.
Juliana
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 19:31:01 (PDT)

That is *supposed to be*
Jasmine
Correction - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 19:25:08 (PDT)

To Lana-- HP3 is supposed to start filming in 2003 and is trying to be releases in 2004 (Thank you for correcting me).

I really like the poems ;-) everyone.

Jezebel--You have no proof that Linda (not the one that post in the guest book) is bluffing or telling the truth. Your opinions are welcome here, just not about us. They are supposed about AR, as far as I know.
Jasmine <MadamJas57@aol.comfoo>
States - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 19:23:13 (PDT)

Sally, the question I get the most: "Is Alan married?" Nobody has ever asked me about his sexual orientation. It amazes me that so many people are curious about his wife/girlfriend. What difference could it possibly make to a fan?
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 18:46:08 (PDT)

Catherine from Chicago, here's a few Mesmer sounds .wavs for you:

This young woman is in urgent need of the assistance of Franz Anton Mesmer!
I want to be alone, thank you... Alone, I said!
Can I help you at all? I deal with most derangements.
I am the one you seek.
A diamond in a cradle of silk.

And this one comes with a health warning (smelling salts may be needed):

Don't be frightened if you swoon away. Don't resist. Let it caress you,... whisper to you,... murmur to you, as the force in me comes flowing into your flesh... your nerves... your bones...
:-)
Suzanne <Suz@mail.usa.comfoo>
TX USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 16:38:26 (PDT)

Hey, my poem is about a simple hairbrush. It's not my fault if some people have dirty minds :^)

~`@
Carolee <carolee3976@yahoo.comfoo>
Demotte, IN USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 16:24:59 (PDT)

You guys!!! This is a "family" GB!!! Let's try to stay this side of the NC-17 rating!! Then again, I started it, didn't I? :)
Julia (I love the "safe as houses" line!)
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 16:13:09 (PDT)

Okay, since we're writing poems, try this one on for size:
(I reserve the right to revise it later!

She lies in his bedroom
Reflected in his mirror
Her smooth ivory curves basking in the afterglow.
Ash blond locks still cling to her delicate fingers
As she waits, with infinite patience
To again make intimate contact
With the tresses of her Master.

Damn, it's good to be a hairbrush.

~`@
Carolee <carolee3976@yahoo.comfoo>
Demotte, IN USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 15:33:42 (PDT)

To Catherine from Chicago; Mesmer is available from Amazon.com on dvd. It's okay, but not one of his best. He looks divine in it, but sadly this does not wholly compensate for the daftness of the plot.The sound is poor in places too, but since the dialogue is rarely scintillating I do not consider this to be a particular drawback! I haven't come across many sites, haven't looked really, but this one has good screenshots from the film; http://yacht.zamok.net/DV/Potter/Posters/Rickman/mesmer.html
Helen <rickfan37@hotmail.comfoo>
UK - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 15:03:34 (PDT)

Hi everybody!
Toby - thanks so much for the details of the Director's Commentary on the Dark Harbour DVD. It was so interesting to read them as it is a film I have been unable to get hold of in the UK high street. Thanks for your effort in typing them out.
Quick question to anyone who was in Solo Flights chat last Thurs; a site to search for Close My Eyes was recommended to me but I forget what it was (was it videoflicks.com??). Thanks in advance.

As we had shirt and shoes poetry I thought I would try to help complete the ensemble with a pair of trousers. Sadly, not many words rhyme with trousers, and poetry is definitely not my strong point, but here goes.....

Oh, Alan, how we love your trousers!
They keep your legs as safe as houses.
You look so good you always wow us...,
Oh Alan, how we LOVE your trousers!

I know, I know! I did warn you about my lack of talent, but at least he's decently dressed now! ;-)
Catherine - evenings can get back to normal now that Big Bro has finished!
Reading, England - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 14:30:43 (PDT)

I just found this message board so hi and sorry if this has been answered already. Has anyone actually seen "mesmer"? I was just wondering if it was worth it to track it down on DVD and buy it. It looks interesting, but I've heard mixed reviews, especially where the sound is concerned. Please help if you can. I heard there are some great hand shots in this one. To show how goofy I am about this movie, I havent' even seen it and I've already made wallpaper from a picture of the movie (Just when the so called famous kissing scene is about to happen) to decorate my desktop with and I put the quote on it :This woman is in dire need of Franz Anton Mesmer!!! Also, is there any Mesmer sites with clips or sounds or wavs? I've had no luck. Thanks!!!
Catherine
Chicago, - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 13:54:34 (PDT)

i was just curious when filming for HP3 was supposed to begin and if alan is going to b in it?:)
lana
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 12:36:38 (PDT)

Ok Julia, my english is very bad, nevertheless I tried, just for fun:

My shoes I cleaned myself this morning

Smooth, smooth
looking for some shoes
on victorian oaks
danced some lovely toes.
Black socks, black shoes, allright!
Or better take the black and white?

Happy birthday Claire, hope you had some birthdaycandles and all your wishes while blowing them out will come true.
lelefua
stuttgart, germany - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 11:46:21 (PDT)

Anne - Manhatten - when were you in Stratford? I was there Mon thru Wed this week and was in the very same place. I find it quite encouraging that whilst I'm thinking "should I tell them about that on the GB" someone else has done almost the same thing! We went in that bookstore on Henley St and discovered the same thing that the photo racks of AR were empty save the folded arms one where he looks a bit grumpy, but endearingly so! Fantastic store, made even better by the fact they have the photos there so I thought I might find their website and order said photos. Earwigged on a couple of chaps discussing AR and how good he was as a villain, so quietly grinned and internally agreed with their nice comments! More people with incredibly good taste. Glad you had a good time there anyway.
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 10:49:12 (PDT)

Thanks for writing that up, Toby. That director's words about AR's "intensity, intelligence and mixture between beauty of soul and menace of mind" is a pretty keen way of putting it. Though for the role of David in DkH, I'm not sure I see the "beauty of soul" element--that is either more in Rickman himself, or more evident in other roles. What *is* in all his roles is that "still waters run deep" feeling.

I posted a Happy Birthday next door at FOF, but as it's hardly sufficient, am posting it here, too--Happy Birthday Claire! (Yes, it's that Claire's birthday.)
Renie <reniept@hotmail.com foo>
(Gee, I could go on for days about this kind of topic...), - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 10:47:36 (PDT)

Marialis, the shirt poem is not mine, I merely stole it from Jane Kenyon. There are plenty of poems about clothing; in fact, the shirt poem comes from a collection called "Clotheslines". The other poems in there aren't nearly as good! So, perhaps this could serve as a challenge to the many writers on this GB: write a poem about any item of AR's clothing.
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 10:04:32 (PDT)

Thanks Anne (Manhatten) :) I could send him to NY couldn't I. He could be pictured outside the Richard Rogers perhaps LOL..

Seriously though, if anyone has any nice pictures of places where you would like to see Snape. Please email them to me and I will see what I can do about sending Snape there! LOL
Amy <wallpapers_inc@ollienet.freeserve.co.ukfoo>
UK - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 08:06:17 (PDT)

Jezebel--if the Solo Flights chat was so boring, why did you spend four hours reading it? Just curious . . .

MA
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 05:06:57 (PDT)

Hi Cynthia ! It’s so kind of you to ask for me ! I’m actually very touched ! Yes I came back from vacation yesterday. I try to make up for the lost time and to read all the GB’s pages I’ve missed. But I’ve nothing brilliant to say today. Alas, I’m not brilliant 24H/24… Maybe my last post was just a sparkle of intelligence ! Who knows… ? But I’m glad to see that there are somewhere on earth a wonderful girl who understood once how wonderful I was myself !

During my vacation, I read Private Lives… and loved it of course. I’ve read so many reports here that I literally saw the scenes while I was reading them !

OT : I’ve read also “The Bridget Jones’s Diary” (I’m not sure it is the good English Title but I’m sure you understand what I mean) and “On the edge of reason”. I know that there was a movie from the first book with Rene Zelwegger… but what about the second? Do you know if someone think to make it ?

Julia, I absolutely love the poem about the shirt… Have you another like this one ? (I wouldn’t be coarse and ask about other clothes ;o)
Marialis <marialisse@tiscali.frfoo>
France - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 03:22:43 (PDT)

Oops - knew I'd forget something. Toby - I'm also going on September 1 and would love to meet you.
Anne/Manhattan
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 01:54:16 (PDT)

Just spent an hour catching up after an unbelievable week in England!!! First time ever - why did I wait so long? Saw The Hollow Crown in Stratford with Derek Jacobi, Ian Richardson, Donald Sinden and Janet Suzman. Four times!!! And Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London and the Purley Cattery in Croydon. Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow.

My London hosts somehow got onto the topic of Bad British Teeth, and I mentioned the "10 Worst Smiles" poll discussed here a while ago wherein AR was named. They didn't think his teeth were all that bad and were curious about the other nine, but I didn't remember anyone else - possibly because I didn't recognize half the people on the list at the time. If anyone has a link handy or remembers when this made the GB, I'd be grateful for your post.

Persons visiting Stratford-Upon-Avon should check out the Shakespeare Centre Library on Henley Street. For every RSC production they have an envelope full of black and white prints - contact sheets, which are 8x10 (approx.) pages with lots of little pictures (the size of negatives), and for many of the shots on the contact sheets they also have 4x6 (approx.) proofs. You can order prints of any of the pictures in several different sizes. It will help if you come prepared, with names and years of any productions you're interested in (see this site's "Resume" page - which I see does not include AR's debut in King Grisly Beard!). Unfortunately I found them 45 minutes before closing on my last day there, but the librarian was extremely efficient and helpful and produced envelopes for the four plays I asked about even though I didn't have dates. Rules: Large bags must be left in a locker; you may not use a pen (they provide pencils) and must wear latex gloves to handle the prints. Closed Saturday afternoon and all day Sunday. They have a website but I don't have the address on me; if anyone's interested, I can post it tomorrow.

A bookstore across the street and a few doors down sells some of the Library's photos. Two of their three AR shots were sold out (they had the one of him in the white shirt with arms crossed, but no Valmont). The cashier said that AR, Patrick Stewart and Kenneth Branagh were their three biggest sellers. I told him he could keep Kenneth Branagh - I've never been much for younger men - but did buy a lovely pic of Patrick as Oberon, looking delicious in a loincloth and long curly wig.)

Juliana - You asked about the barricades at the stage door. Not at all unusual. During previews, they had a uniformed cop as well, but I haven't seen him since, so I guess they decided they didn't need that level of security. Though I have seen people, while not exactly crashing the barricades, sort of overflow into that space (the barricades extend to the curb and are open at that end).

Barricades or no, we're very lucky that AR comes out after every performance and is so gracious about signing and posing for photos, especially since it's clear at times that his heart isn't really in it. I visited the Hollow Crown stage door five times, and only once (Friday night) saw all the actors leave that way; of the four principals, only Ms. Suzman came out every time. I wasn't going to see the show till Thursday night but went to the stage door after the matinee just to get the lay of the land and was glad I did - watching Sir Donald work the crowd (about 20 that day) would have been worth the price of a ticket. But don't let me get started on this or I'll go on all night.

Amy - "Holiday Snapes" is hilarious! Send him to New York next!
Anne/Manhattan
- Friday, July 26, 2002 at 01:51:46 (PDT)

Toby - Thanks also from me. I have DH on video. I had heard that the directors comments are great on DVD, so I decided to buy it. Are there any other special features?
Linda
NJ USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 21:50:10 (PDT)

Ah Toby - thank you. So... If diehard fan is curious about AR's sexual orientation, they should watch the Dark Harbour DVD with the directors commentary on. I think I will start using that as my reply as "What is AR's sexual orientation" (along with "Is he married?") seem to be THE two questions that endlessly filter through from my site. Honestly, I should set up a FAQ section on my site as well!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 21:29:39 (PDT)

Here is my feeble contribution as promised awhile back. The DVD for “Dark Harbor” has commentary by the director, Adam Coleman Howard. Some of the comments pertain specifically to Alan Rickman and I thought those with VCRs or TV downloads would be interested. The director seemed to presume that people would see the movie twice, which I thought was interesting. The director’s commentary rambled a bit– the grammar is his, not mine. SPOILERS FOLLOW.

When David and Alexis get out of the car in the rain to help the young man, “This scene was very uncomfortable for the actors and their clothes had to be dried after every single take which made it a nightmare. Because the movie is so dependent on the three actors’ performances and it either lives or dies on that, it is interesting to note that not only did we have to choose the right actors but we had to be lucky enough to get them. The casting process on this movie was very complicated because I had always wanted Alan Rickman from the word go which isn’t a very usual choice for a known British actor who has specialized in small sophisticated movies and big budget villain roles to play a Jewish Boston lawyer would not be most people’s first choice or first image for the role but he had the exact quality, intensity, intelligence and mixture between beauty of soul and menace of mind for the role.”

During the first breakfast scene, “Now here is a very interesting example of David’s [sic Alan's] performance being a lot heavier and more uncomfortable than I had originally imagined because Alan Rickman, who is a very brilliant man, took the chance with this performance and really convinced me that it was the way to go, that if he was really doing what he was doing and he was really in collusion to murder his wife and stage a suicide, that he would not be free and easy and jovial, which was the way I had originally imagined this invitation and challenge to the young man. It lends a depth and an importance to the events that occur in the movie and stays with the viewer way after the movie is over in a way they wouldn’t have if it had been played much lighter. American movies tend to give immediate gratification to the viewer but Alan really made a good decision to play the role that way. And we decided together that Alan [sic David] was not as good of a human actor as the young man is so the young man is much easier with his role playing than the character of David.”

During the love message, “We let the camera just roll and roll and roll and Alan did take after take after take and for whatever reason the sixth take of the third reel of 18 or 19 takes was the one we used entirely even though we intercut – there was this one take, that was about take 12, that was so far and away the most powerful one for reasons that are mysteries to me. And this was another example of Alan’s acting perhaps being slanted in this scene toward the serious and the solemn when it could have perhaps been more ironic. But when you find out at the end of the move what was going on the whole time, he does a brilliant display of focused nausea as things are getting very very deadly and uncomfortable for him. And he brought real grace to a role and a truth that is really hard and almost impossible to bring in my opinion.”

For the infamous nude scene, “Alan was, like all the actors were during the water scenes, very brave. He did his own dive that you are about to see in water that we were medically advised not to have an actor go into at this point. This was right at the end of the shoot when we shot this. And he dove completely bare naked into the coldest water that I had ever felt in my life. And he could only go in for 8 or 9 seconds at a time and then he had to be immediately rushed into a boat with a heating system and blankets. At which point he got back into the boat and did another dive for us.”

And for the last scene, “And the actors were very nervous about this scene with the intimate kiss that was required but on the day of shooting, they showed up totally prepared and totally....it couldn’t have been easier. And there’s a look of both peace and anxiety on Alan’s face that took a long while for him to feel comfortable with and me to be comfortable with. And he finally got it to such a degree that I find astonishing.”

Closing with Toby’s opinion, if the director had had his way and Alan Rickman had kept quiet, David would not have been nearly as ambiguous or interesting and neither would the movie have been as ambiguous or interesting. Hooray for AR to bring so many subtle nuances.
Toby
Newtown, CT US - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 21:11:03 (PDT)

I sat there for like 4 hours reading the Solo Flights Chat. You guys talk about the most boring things. Half an hour spent on chocolate and which one is the best (Dark, milk, or white).

Bravo, Magda, Jezebel is not my real name.

Jasmine, I was not being rude to Linda, I was speaking my mind. Isn't that what a guest book is for? I cant even put in a nopinion wihtout being bagered.
Jezebel
- Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 20:56:26 (PDT)

Linda, I am going to try to write to him, but I have no idea where to send it. Caould you e-mail the address you sent it to, please. It would be a great help to me. Thank you.
Jasmine <MadamJas57@aol.comfoo>
States - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 20:52:14 (PDT)

Sue and Helen, I believe the toes are a no-show in the Dark Harbor motel room scene. Cannot comment on possibility of toes in Close My Eyes as have not seen it. Feeling very scholarly regarding toe issue. May submit short journal article on it shortly. Just have to figure out which journal to send it to. Lelefua, Mounting Olympus seems to be someone's creative exercise, not a real movie. I'm sure Olympus is some poor girl. I think Marialis was the name of the person from France who posted on the 'wonderful girl' issue. What happened to you? You wrote very interesting, enjoyable posts. Hope you're just on vacation.
Cynthia
CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 20:04:29 (PDT)

Not that it has to be the same arrangement every night, but for every PL stage door experience I've had (4 to date), the town car (not limo) that was labelled "Bonnie" was for Lindsay Duncan and the town car labelled "Fred" was for Alan Rickman.

Am I the only one going for the last show on Sept 1?
Toby
Newtown, CT US - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 20:00:59 (PDT)

Alan Rickman is my favorite actor, even though I've only seen him in 2 movies. He portrays his roles so well, he is very gifted.Thanks for your awsome performances!!!
Cristina
Ky United States - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 18:33:08 (PDT)

Welcome Denise, You should write to him, currently he is at the Richard Rodgers theater in NYC. He will be there until Sept. 1. I wrote to him in early June, and received an autographed photo signed to me. And I know it is his signature, because I had some things signed in person, when I met him at the stage door. He is so good to his fans. Here is your chance, go for it. :o)
Linda
NJ USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 17:38:31 (PDT)

Lelefua, HI. My favorite photo, which is also the same one that he sent me, can be found on Tammi's site. Click on Photo Gallery, go to page 2. It is the in the 3rd row, the second photo.
Linda
NJ USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 16:21:46 (PDT)

oh, and i saw this one pic and he was in a room and the walls were COMPLETELY COVERED in cards and fan letters, i wouldn't dare write to him, first of all...i'd make a jacka$$ out of myself AND he wouldn't even recieve it cuz of all the agents and stuff it has to go through AND i dont even know WHAT THE HELL TO SAY!!!!! stupid computer! *whacks computer* it keeps disconecting! DAMN YOU! YOU INFERNAL CONTRAPTION!
Denise
- Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 14:54:46 (PDT)

hey all! i'm an alan fanatic and, dont laugh at me, but........i'm 13 *runs out of way while tomatoes are thrown* i dunno what started my obsession but me and i friend i met online are like obsessors and think he's hot, though a little on the old side he's good looking. i adored him in galaxy quest, god that was so funny! and (this isn't a lie or a cry for attention) but i have a friend and she's trying out for harry potter and she saw him and got his autograph for me, she still needs to send it to me, but if you dont believe me just email me and i'll scan it for you, ONCE I GET IT! ARGH! why i have my obsession is oblivious to me, so dont ask! and i need another alan rickmaniac to talk to! EMAIL ME! peace out! -Denise
Denise <messy_room@msn.comfoo>
Ridgefield, WA US - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 14:46:11 (PDT)

Helen - I know EXACTLY what you mean! It's rather a repeated scene on my video too!! Rather scrummy!
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 14:44:49 (PDT)

Allen Rickman is my FAVORITE actor of all times!! I love the way he brings out the person he is playing! I can't wait till I can see the next movie he will be in(Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets) comming on November 15 of this year (2002)!!!
Lily <fuzz84720@hotmail.comfoo>
UT USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 14:44:48 (PDT)

Sue from Lincoln; although Dark Harbor is one of my favourite AR films, I'm afraid I am unable to confirm whether or not his toes are visible in the motel room scene, since I have not yet been able to tear my eyes away from areas further north...;-)
Helen <rickfan37@hotmail.comfoo>
UK - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 14:16:12 (PDT)

Linda and Lelefua: email me, please.
Magda <mgrantwich@yahoo.comfoo>
Canada - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 13:26:13 (PDT)

Linda, whichone is your favorite? Is it on page five at Tammi's side? Didn't even notice my name was wrong, don't mind.
lelefua
stgt, - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 13:04:04 (PDT)

Lelefua, I am so sorry, I mistyped your name in my last post.
Linda - who needs a spelling lesson
NJ USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 12:35:37 (PDT)

Going back to the discussion earlier on toes, does my memory serve me correctly in thinking that you can see them in Dark Harbor when they're at the motel and he's sprawled on the bed looking lush in t-shirt and shorts? And almost the same in Close My Eyes when they're watching the film on TV on the bed? Now of course if my memory is failing, I might just have to go back and spend the evening watching the 2 films again to check - now, won't that be a shame and a great hardship!!
Sue
Lincoln, U.K. - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 12:35:11 (PDT)

Hi lelufua, I love that profile shot as well. Tammi has a lot of nice black and white shots. The one you found on Raeffella's site, is it the one where his hands on his head and his arms are back? If so, that one is gorgeous. Tammi has that one on her site as well.

My favorite picture of him is also there, I think it may be the one he sends to fans who write to him. I received that one from him about three weeks ago. He signed it TO LINDA ALAN RICKMAN. I wrote him a thank you note for being so kind to me and my son when we saw Private Lives in June. I think he looks fantastic in black and white shots.
Linda
NJ USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 12:33:38 (PDT)

Thank you Magda!
Lelefua
- Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 12:09:40 (PDT)

Lelefua: posting a link to a photo is always allowed. The recent discussion was about people copying a pic from someone else's site and putting it up on their own site without acknowledgement about where they got it. So you're safe.
Magda
Canada - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 11:58:31 (PDT)

Found it on tammi's side link,first picturepage, 4th row 3rd pic. I hope nobody is angry that I gave that link. You are discussing a lot about posting photos belonging to others and I now realy don't know what's allowed and what's not.
lelefua
- Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 11:54:05 (PDT)

An interesting review of "Private Lives," putting it in historical perspective, appeared in the 28 June issue of "The Chronicle of Higher Education." I have posted it on the News page.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 11:48:59 (PDT)

Sorry link didn't work like I wanted. Go to Photos, page 1, the second pic in the 9th row.
lelefua
- Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 11:21:36 (PDT)

Hi Linda, how do you like this one link I like it very much, it's a pity that the quality is so bad. I think it's out of a newspaper. Now I took it from the italian fan page, hope the owner isn't angry. In my collection I have another wonderful black and white picture, but I don't know how I could show you because I don't remember where I got it from. It's my absolute favorite, it's only his face from left side and in the right corner there written "Rickman Photo ...", do you know it.
lelefua
stgt, - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 11:17:03 (PDT)

Lelefua, "Mounting Olympus" looks very much like one of those 'ideal cast' websites--someone's notion of what movie they'd like to see.

Lana, apart from his "nursing home" comment on Charlie Rose, I do not believe we have any idea of what Mr. Rickman plans after the close of "Private Lives."

Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 11:07:42 (PDT)

i was just curious if alan had any productions that he was going to do when he returned to england after "Private Lives" had finished?
LANA
- Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 10:37:50 (PDT)

Thanks Gwen for the info on the ferry, I am going to check it out.

And also thanks for lelefua for the link to the wonderful pictures, there were a few I have never seen. Lately, I have been fascinated with black and white photos of him. I absolutely love the first picture on the fourth page. :o)
Linda
NJ USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 10:35:21 (PDT)

Does anyone know this film?mounting olympus
lelefua
stgt, - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 10:17:20 (PDT)

Found some pictures link
lelefua
stuttgart, - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 10:10:53 (PDT)

Oh Cynthia!!Rima needs to take a look at her microeconomics students, who are getting plenty of sleep in class
So it was YOU observing from the door! hah! Brilliant...
Jules
UK - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 09:28:42 (PDT)

This is just for Linda: you might consider taking a train to Hoboken (NJ Transit) and then taking the ferry across the river. It's a lovely way to ride...really sets the tone for the evening. I take the ferry every time I have to go across the river to NJ (that is, whenever my private limo/sedan driver is busy--ha ha). When you get to NY, there are free air conditioned shuttle buses that will take you across either 42nd St. or 50th St. (50th is closer to the theater). They stop at every Avenue. The ferry serice is run by a company called Waterways, so maybe you can look them up on the web. Enjoy!

Sorry for bothering everyone else with this.
Gwenn <moregato@hotmail.comfoo>
US - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 09:15:15 (PDT)

That is the picture,(italicize the is)! Thank you Mesmer's Patient. The poor baby! He needs us to descend on him like a coven of good witches armed with a cauldron of revitalizing enchanted tea and then send him back into the world to work his magic. Rima needs to take a look at her microeconomics students, who are getting plenty of sleep in class, and then that picture of Alan. Who needs you more Rima?
Cynthia
CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 09:11:51 (PDT)

Thanks Sally for the info on the limo's. When I saw the cars waiting for him at the stage door, I was surprised that were sedans. Before I had gone, someone had referenced that they were limo's. Around this area, limos are the long cars with a lot of seats. A lot of people use them for weddings and proms. I think that they call anything smaller "car service". Can someone correct me if I am wrong. I recently called for a "car" not a limo to take me and my mom into the city to see Private Lives. I live about an hours drive away. It was rather pricy, I thought, one place charges $48 an hour and they wait for you to finish, so you pay for the whole time. So the price of the "car service" would have been more than the cost of the tickets. So, we are taking the train and walking 13 blocks.
Linda
NJ USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 08:10:58 (PDT)

Slightly Off Topic: This has to do with British Men...since AR is British and a man.....well, just thought this was interesting.
Link
Mesmer's Patient
- Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 07:43:37 (PDT)

Stezi, You have a great website, and your photos are great! I have just returned from a trip to Europe which started in Amsterdam for 5 days. You have a beautiful country!
Ellen
New York, NY - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 06:12:20 (PDT)

Gwenn--the new pics on Stezi's site are from the "We Know Where You Live" DVD. It was an Amnesty International special in June of last year. The DVD as a whole is hilarious...add AR and you have an excellent buy!
Claudia
GA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 06:06:19 (PDT)

Stezi: Thank you so much for those new photos--they are adorable! Are they from a movie or tv program? It looks like he was in some skits. I know nothing about this--can you enlighten me? Anyway, they look very funny. Also, was this recent? The images of him look contemporary, and I'm struck by them and by everyone's photos from the stage door at how youthful he looks for his age--INCREDIBLE! Thanks again for your contribution.
Gwenn <moregato@hotmail.comfoo>
US - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 05:47:17 (PDT)

Stezi - thank you! We so rarely get to see his really goofy grin! But those GLASSES!! Ack! Looks too much like my Dad for comfort!
Jules
UK - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 05:20:55 (PDT)

Cynthia, thank you for mentioning the other male character in Dark Harbor. EEWWW!!! He just creeped me out.
Lori
USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 05:01:54 (PDT)

Hi guys! I am back from Paris and I had a great time. Next week I will visit London (again). But for now I've updated my site with DVD pics of We know where you live. Just click my name and enjoy Alan. Don't forget to bookmark the new location, just to be sure!
Stezi <stezi@wxs.nlfoo>
The Netherlands - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 03:04:54 (PDT)

Re that E-Bay pic. I see he's taken to holding a little shield to ward off the E-Bay 'freaks'.
And will SOMEONE teach him about ties???
Jules
UK - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 00:52:07 (PDT)

" "She's busy trying to work in barefoot Snape in black silk pyjamas." This is the explanation of why Harry Potter 5 is taking so long from my 19 year old niece. "

But she's already worked him in in a grey nightshirt. Why mess with perfection?

Carolee
~`@

Carolee <carolee3976@yahoo.comfoo>
Demotte, IN USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 00:18:28 (PDT)

"Cynthia, I believe this is the eBay photo you mentioned. AR does look in need of some TLC and a nice cuppa something!"

Rima better have taken good care of him after that picture was taken or I will personally go and scratch her eyes out!!

Sorry, got a little excited there.

Carolee
~`@

Carolee <carolee3976@yahoo.comfoo>
Demotte, IN USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 00:15:41 (PDT)

Cynthia, I believe this is the eBay photo you mentioned. AR does look in need of some TLC and a nice cuppa something!
eBay Photo
Mesmer's Patient
- Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 23:29:12 (PDT)

Jasmine, you can see his toes in Private Lives. There's a photo of him from the play with toes exposed at the Topfoto site. Log in as Guest and click on group photos,(I think), and then enter Alan's name. Toes show as well in Dark Harbor when he's walking naked up the path to the house at the end,(that gruesome end). Only gruesome because of how the other character looked and spoke, if only it had been Billy Crudup, or anyone palatable. Wait! Oh no, I guess his socks are on when his foot is on Juliet Stevenson chest in TMD. Wracking my brain for toe shots. Are those his feet during the hair-cutting contest in Blow Dry? Hmmm....that's all I can come up with...for those in the know, does he have a little pot-belly or none? It's fine with me if he does. (Thank you for the Bonnie car explanation.)
Cynthia
CA USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 23:06:41 (PDT)

Its just SAD sometimes seeing what people will bid for on eBay - I mean come on people - a greeting card? Easy enough to do yourself by downloading your fave pic of AR from the web, and then printing it out on greeting card paper available at most fine places that stock paper... Probably cheaper to buy the paper than pay for the greeting card! And yes, it is sad to see someone frantically trying to flog photographs of AR at the stage door of PL...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 22:37:41 (PDT)

Heres a link to the news release which says they are aiming to have HP3 in the theatres by the summer of 2004.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 21:16:41 (PDT)

I beg to differ on HP3 - it is to start filming in 2003 and aiming for a mid-2004 release.

And to Linda (NJ) - many countries seem to interpret 'limo' has a large 4 door sedan (esp. in Asia where a Ford Taurus would be called a limo...). However, I do recall meeting a rich NY friend at JFK airport (NY) - once- and his company escorted him (us) to and from the airport in a 'limo' - which was just a very large, comfortable 4 door sedan. Trust me, you sink so far into those seats, they practically fold over you...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 21:14:11 (PDT)

Jasmine-- I have heard the same thing that you have just posted about GQ 2 and HP 3. I think it is true.

His toes? That's a first. I will have to go look through my collection of AR movies to find a scene with his toes in it. I have never even noticed them before.

(Thank you Suz for fixing the double post. I will be more careful next time. ;-)
Jezebel
- Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 20:40:25 (PDT)

The 3rd HP movie is going to start being filmed in 2004. I have heard that there is going to be a sequel to GQ with all the same cast, including AR. During the 2 year time gap between now and then, I think is when he is going to be filmng for GQ 2. Can anyone confirm this??

Just curious, in what movie can you see his toes? :-) I would think he would look at you funny if you said that to him.
Jasmine
- Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 20:35:06 (PDT)

THANK YOU, THANK YOU , THANK YOU, Suz (D.o.C.), for cleaning up my messes!!! I am forever in your debt. I promise to stick with links only in the future.
Mesmer's Patient
- Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 19:48:31 (PDT)

Hi Cynthia, I think that "Bonnie" is the name that they have on the window of the car that takes Alan from the theater. Or maybe it is on the dashboard, I am not sure. There is another car and it has a mans name I believe, and I think that one is for Alan and one is for Lindsay. I was surprised when I saw the cars, they are not limos, but rather 4 door sedans.
Linda
NJ USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 19:41:54 (PDT)

"She's busy trying to work in barefoot Snape in black silk pyjamas." This is the explanation of why Harry Potter 5 is taking so long from my 19 year old niece. She is a big HP fan, and now a somewhat reluctant AR fan after I dragged her to 2 PL shows and stage door antics. He winked at her when she had trouble getting her sharpie from him. He made a very funny face at me when I told him he had very cute toes.
Kat H <katholtz@juno.comfoo>
Kent, OH USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 19:00:00 (PDT)

I was at the stage door on week nights only, which probably accounts for the smaller turnout. I don't believe there were more than 20 people, fewer than that on Tuesday. Just a judgment call, but I thought the composition was approx. 1/3rd men, 2/3rds women. People were very well mannered, quiet. No screaming, pushing, etc. Thank heaven! Kathy from Maine, thank you for the response regarding where Rima was standing. I missed her completely.
Lily <LilyChicago@hotmail.comfoo>
Chicago, IL - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 18:52:32 (PDT)

(I've never heard of a "Bonnie" car.) I don't know why there are barricades at the stage door, but I just saw a picture of Morgan Fairchild with a fan that really turned me off. The fan had his arm around her with his hand gripping her waist tightly, his other hand is splayed out on her stomach. He has this huge, stupid smile on his face, and I just felt, YUCK!! I used to think it would be nice if Alan would allow fans to put their arm around him or vice versa,(for a photo). I didn't think about how some people would take advantage of that, but of course some would. That would be enough for me, if I were the celebrity, to always keep my distance. Physically, but also emotionally. You never know who the wackos are. Even if fans aren't outright twisted, people say unbelievably offensive things, knowingly or not, to celebrities. It isn't all, "I loved you in Die Hard". I can't blame Alan for being distant with his fans, I think he's smart and self-protective.
Cynthia
CA USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 18:31:11 (PDT)

HI Juliana, I have had the great fortune of meeting him at the stage door twice. Once in May and once in June. In May, it was a Sunday and there were only about 10-15 people there, the barricades were set up on either side of the stage door. A story was told to me from someone who was there the day before that a few women ran up the center, and did not wait behind the barricade.

In June, this time it was after a Saturday matinee and there were a lot more fans waiting for him, I would say around 30-40. And as before, barricades on either side of the door.

I was curious as well, are the crowds larger than that now? It looks as if it is, judging from the recent pictures I have seen. Also, if anyone has gone to the stage door recently, does he seem to get to everyone, or are some left without an autograph? Thanks :o)
Linda
NJ USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 17:30:30 (PDT)

Great site! I can't wait for november to see alan in the 2nd hp film *shivers* oooh i really can't wait.
michelle <Michelle9771@aol.comfoo>
- Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 17:00:46 (PDT)

To Lily from Chicago-Rima was standing toward the edge of the sidewalk, right by the black "Bonnie" car. I also thought Alan's shirt was sort of different. Better then a tee-shirt though. She is so much prettier in person then in her photos. Have no clue who the other lady was.
Kathy <KBilier@AOL.comfoo>
Lewiston, Me - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 16:59:24 (PDT)

For all of you lucky ladies who have seen AR in New York- why have the barricades been added outside the stage door? Are there that many people surrounding him so he needs to be separated from them?? I am just curious.
Juliana
- Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 16:54:19 (PDT)

Just read the Mike Binder interview - didnt realise he was the chappy Tom Cruise was to kill in Minority Report - maybe he does have acting potential after all (RE: for me, he ruined Search for John Gissing, even though the story was fundamentally there...). Must be said, a lot of what he said about why Search for John Gissing not being picked sounds very true!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 16:45:11 (PDT)

That second photo makes me want to take him home and tuck him into bed. . . to sleep, of course.
Suze
NY - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 16:29:42 (PDT)

Thanks Laurie... :) And Jen... Of course they will all live forever... But you know me, I'll say anything LOL.
Amy
UK - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 15:30:48 (PDT)

LOVED that article comparing Jonathon Pryce and Alan Rickman! Fabulous! And the author has such good taste!
Was also great to see further good reviews of The Search for John Gissing - fingers crossed indeed for a distributor.
As for that second photo - aww, he's still lovely! Makes me want to take him home and make him a cuppa!
Catherine - zzzzzzz...tired...
Reading, England - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 14:35:00 (PDT)

OT, BtW - You bawled your eyes out too when Jeremy Brett died? I was inconsolable for days because he died so suddenly from heart failure. How I miss that man!
Melissa
NJ, - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 13:29:39 (PDT)

OT, Ann, NJ - I just heard about Leo McKern's passing too. He was a great actor who I fondly remember from 'A Man For All Seasons' and 'The Prisoner' tv series. He will be sorely missed.
Melissa
NJ, - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 13:25:41 (PDT)

Oh, no, BtW, don't say it! I must continue to believe that AR and Tom Baker (along with my two tabby cats) will live forever!

Of course, being a Morbid Millie, I made sure I got a pic and an autograph from John Inman this past May at a Dr. Who event sponsored by the Heritage Foundation, of which he is this year's President. You know, since I probably won't get another chance before The Inevitable . . . (No, TB didn't show, but Colin Baker, a.k.a., the Sixth Dr., stepped on my foot!)
Jen
USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 13:09:27 (PDT)

Big talents conspire to die together.... too true....

I bawled my eyes out when Jeremy Brett died. I rather suspect I'll be even more of a wreck when Tom Baker passes.
Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 12:49:40 (PDT)

I think that big talents conspire to die at around the same time. Chaim Potok died yesterday.
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 12:31:56 (PDT)

OT - Thanks, FastFilm. I had not heard about Leo McKern. I've been a Beatlemaniac long before a Rickmaniac (saw them in Forest Hills, twice in Shea Stadium, and George's Bangladesh concert). Leo McKern, with all the other wo