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Copyright 1997 Guardian Newspapers Limited
The Guardian, June 28, 1997
HEADLINE: STARS LINE UP FOR LABOUR FUNDRAISER IN LOS ANGELES, Joanna Coles on a rallying call to raise $500,000
BYLINE: Joanna Coles
BODY:"LEADING British film stars, including Ralph Fiennes, Liam Neeson, and Helen Mirren, have agreed to take part in a fundraising gala for the Labour Party in Los Angeles this autumn. The gala is being organised by Harold Evans, a former editor of the Sunday Times, who this weekend takes up the role of honorary secretary of Labour's American branch. The gala is expected to raise $500,000 (about pounds 340,000), making it one of the biggest fundraising events ever for the party. To date the two largest donations are cheques for pounds 1 million from the late chairman of Chelsea Football Club, Matthew Harding, and the International Fund for Animal Welfare.
The evening will include an Anthology of British Love Letters, first performed at the Almeida Theatre, in Islington, north London. Fiennes - who appeared most recently in The English Patient - and Neeson were nominated for Oscars after appearing in Steven Spielberg's Schindler's List. Actor Alan Rickman, whose girlfriend is a Labour councillor in west London, and actress Natasha Richardson, Neeson's wife, will also take part.
Mr Evans, now publisher of the New York-based Random House, expects tickets will sell for $ 100 to $ 200 each. The move to include sympathetic actors in fundraising is a departure for Labour. Although many actors, including Emma Thompson, Stephen Fry and Ben Elton, made clear their support for Neil Kinnock during the 1992 election, there were fears before this May's election that the "luvvie tendency" might turn off some voters. As a result there was a conspicuous absence of artistic endorsements, though Melvyn Bragg heads a group called Arts For Labour."
To LA anyone?!?
Lisa
USA - 06/30/97 at 18:32:48
AR as GW: I'm all a-twitter! Though too bad we won't hear him intone Patrick Henry's "But as for me, give me liberty or give me death" speech. S'OK - we'll take the bigger role, eh?
Laura Sparer <lsparer@ucit.comfoo>
Nashville, TN USA - 06/30/97 at 14:09:13
As for casting-- we've all seen it doesn't matter with whom they match him up; he still manages to suck up all the attention when he's in a scene. Think of the people we keep suggesting-- Hinds, Redgraves (and offspring), Hopkins-- and think of who we've actually gotten: Bruce Willis, Kevin Costner, Tom Selleck, even two shots of Mary E. Mastroantonio (I know it's spelled wrong!). All good stars, but not actors. At least it proves that AR's talent can help mediocre films. Although, I agree, it would be nice to see him headline a big-screen film. Regarding R&G are Dead: I love the idea! But I don't think he'll need to dye his hair. I always thought part of the joke was that the two men weren't alike-- that they were so insignificant to the royals t hat it didn't matter which was which. They were viewed as a unit: Hamlet's friend(s) from school. Plus, someone suggested that it was a slight anti-Semitic joke-- they were only Jews; who was who didn't matter.
Next thought: I'm going on a 6-to 8-week sick leave (surgery), so I won't me near my computer. Which means I won't get to visit with you wonderful people! (sobbing into my tea) I'll miss you all ( including you revelers next door!), but I'll "see" you in
late August! Meanwhile, I'll keep busy with many viewings of S&S, Barchester, et al. Now, if I can only figure out a way to get the Col. to read "The Fairye Queen" to me while I recuperate... TMD,
Sandra <SYJackson@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/30/97 at 09:56:27
Subject: Storyteller on HBO!!
Hi, I recieved this as an e-mail this morning from a friend who is also
interested in this stuff. I'm pretty sure you all will be interested in
this, too.
HBO RESUMES
RELATIONSHIP WITH JIM
HENSON PRODUCTIONS,
HBO To Air "Lost" Episode Of JIM HENSON'S THE
STORYTELLER
As Well As Four Episodes Of JIM HENSON'S GREEK MYTHS
Previously Unseen In The U.S. --------Anthony Minghella ("The English
Patient") Wrote The "Lost" Episode Of THE STORYTELLER, As
Well As The Rest Of The Series --------
NEW YORK, June 26, 1997 -- Continuing a successful
two-decade relationship, HBO will premiere five previously unseen
episodes of JIM HENSON'S THE STORYTELLER and JIM
HENSON'S GREEK MYTHS, representing some of Jim Henson's
last work, it was announced today by Carole Rosen, vice president,
family programming, HBO. To be presented beginning this
November, the shows include a "lost" episode of JIM HENSON'S
THE STORYTELLER, entitled "The Three Ravens," as well as four
episodes of JIM HENSON'S GREEK MYTHS, entitled "Daedalus
and Icarus," "Theseus and the Minotaur," "Orpheus and Eurydice"
and "Perseus and the Gorgon," all never before seen in the U.S.
Rosen also noted that both series have never been available on
home video or in syndication in the U.S.
"My father was extremely proud of these series, as is everyone at
Jim Henson Productions, and now audiences will finally get to see
them in their entirety," said Brian Henson, president and CEO of Jim
Henson Productions.
All nine episodes of JIM HENSON'S THE STORYTELLER were
written by Anthony Minghella, the writer and director of this year's
Oscar-winning Best Picture "The English Patient." Combining live
action and puppetry, the shows feature such top actors as John Hurt
(as The Storyteller), Brenda Blethyn (Best Actress Oscar nominee for
the 1996 film "Secrets and Lies"), Jonathan Pryce, Joely Richardson
and Miranda Richardson. Brian Henson puppeteers the Storyteller's
dog. The music was composed by Rachel Portman, who received an
Oscar this year for "Emma," while the executive in charge of
production was Duncan Kenworthy, whose credits include the hit
miniseries "Gulliver's Travels" and the smash feature film "Four
Weddings and a Funeral."
The debut of THE STORYTELLER produced a flood of critical
raves. The San Francisco Examiner called it "daring and fresh," and
"a wonderful half-hour." UPI hailed the show as "enchanting and
spellbinding," while the Los Angeles Daily News termed it "a witty,
romantic and visually stunning treat for the entire family."
Previous Henson projects seen on HBO include the acclaimed
specials "Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas" and "The Tale of the
Bunny Picnic," as well the series "The Ghost of Faffner Hall" and the
critically acclaimed "Fraggle Rock," which ran on HBO from 1983 to
1988 and was the network's first family series.
Jim Henson Productions, an established leader in family
entertainment for more than 40 years, is an independent multimedia
production company; one of the top character licensors in the
industry; a leading publisher of children's books; and home to Jim
Henson Pictures, Jim Henson Interactive and Jim Henson's Creature
Shop. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles with offices
and production facilities in New York and London.
Academy Award and Oscar are registered trademarks and
service marks of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
========
Visually, the stuff is Creature Shop stunning. GULLIVER'S TRAVELS was
something of a descendent.
Time to get HBO...
--Kathy
I've been with Debbye in AR heaven listening to him. "Sigh"
The Return of the Native (Cover to Cover Audio Books) 1. Ciaran Hinds. I think he and AR could do a rather nice job of playing brothers, for instance-- they look enough alike to be credible, and of course they're both splendid actors.
2. David Duchovny. Although I suspect that AR would steal any scenes he shared with DD-- the latter is a fine actor given the chance, but perhaps not quite good enough. However, they both have these marvellous languid voices that I wouldn't at all mind hearing more of...
3. Peter O'Toole. Now who's going to win that battle of the inveterate scene-stealers? I searched the IMDB and the PBS home page for more information on Liberty. So far there's no information available, not even a confirmation that the project is in development. However, this article I quoted from the Freeps was a local exclusive, so perhaps this is the first public mention of it. I mean, if Colm Feore is/was part of the project, he would surely be a reliable source of information as to who else was cast. And, btw, the reporter who did the interview was obviously not a
Rickmaniac, as he spelled Alan's first name with two l's. (And no, he wasn't talking about that "Allen Rickman" fellow from Shock! Shock! Shock! either. I am at least 99.999% sure about that.)
If I hear or read anything more I'll let you know. From an article in the Entertainment section of today's London Free Press (that's London, Ontario, not London, England, BTW) about local actor Colm Feore:
This is the first I've heard of this project -- I'm off to comb the web for more details! AR as GW? The mind boggles... I just hope they don't make him wear that awful powdered wig through the whole movie. :) I remember an Entertainment Tonight interview with Tom Berenger when he'd been nominated for an Oscar for Platoon. It took place standing on a dock apparently because he'd refused to have them on his boat. She asked if he liked the attention from the nomination. He looked off in the distance. "Not really because it means that I have to do a lot more," he turned and looked at her like she was something that had crawled out of his salad, "things like this." I didn't see any more interviews with Tom. AR should NEVER work with Julia Roberts. OK, I admit that sometimes I post just so that next time I'll know where to start reading. Also, you all start such interesting threads. I'm sorry but Simon Callow just does not have the heft to play 6' 4" Oscar. Richard Egan (I think) in the Masterpiece series, Lily Langtry with Francesca Annis, was ideal: huge, effete and droll. "I have nothing to declare but genius."
(Posting with a completely (okay, not completely) serious face, having gleefully left my unruly side in the other
guestbook.) The interview was not new but from about a year ago so we'll have to wait for TWG references. AR didn't go to Venice for MC but he has more to do with TWG. I hope they can convince him. Melissa's right; I think sitting in a panel opposite a bank of journalists is his vision of hell. Forgot who made the comment about him looking forward to the promo for TWG as much as extinsive dental work. As a dental assistant, I must tell you I dream often of the day he walks into our office to finally have all those hours of work done (with me by his side of course). tee hee. If memory serves, he was wearing a dark jacket, white shirt, and tan pants, very J.Crew casual. His hair was very much as at the GGs, quite light, rather long, centre part. He sat back in his chair with his legs crossed and his hands to one side. During Linehan's interminable(sp?) question, AR squinted at him with pursed lips, reminding one how much he hates journalists. The question was about how it affected him and his preparation to watch film of DeValera. I think Linehan was expecting answers about the physicality of the role. AR said that it reminded him of his obligation to a real person to get the characterization right. And then he talked about the connectedness of history. I confess, I was out of town and lonely in a hotel room. When he started to talk, I had difficulty concentrating on the meaning of the words. Eva: I agree with you. Maryanne is in love with love. An example is her conversation with her mother expressing her admiration for romantic heroines like Juliet and Ophelia. To die for love is the most noble end, in her opinion. After fighting for her life she quite quickly sees the attraction of "sense" and expresses true gratitude to Col. Brandon. Maybe high romance and dying for love weren't all they're cracked up to be after all...
Eva, I agree completely with
you regarding the Pemberely fiction. Once in the truly loving arms of Brandon how could anyone think of another? I am working on a very humble piece of fiction right now dealing with the time between Maryanne's illness and the wedding. Perhaps it can continue into their marital bliss. It's very rough still but perhaps I could post some if anyone is interested. My initial thought was to post at Pemberley. Jean, thank you for the music tentacles. Here's hoping for more real news in the near future. ttfn, Dana
One question though, if there's one guestbook for fact and one guestbook for fantasy, where will we go to post our complaints and criticism? ;-)
I must away. Taking a long weekend to visit an out-of-state
friend. Bringing my AR video collection and Emma Thompson's
diaries. We can watch DH, QDU and RHPOT with her husband.
Not sure how we'll manage TMD and S&S. Cheers.
Does anybody know for sure what that thing is?
My hands are a still a little stiff from the golf lesson I just
came back from, but I will try to set it up this afternoon.
Mary Anne: Perhaps if you post your e-mail address, those interested could 'subscribe' to your ongoing adventures. (Sometimes I worry about poor Karina bearing the cost of all these downloads.) I side with Rebecca et al.
Rebecca: On June 14 Cassandra added a few more chapters to
Never Love By Halves
(her S&S sequel). She is breaking my heart. And by the way, I thought the large font was cool. Put me in the party spirit. It really made the disclaimer quite effective, and it made the "AR" posting jump off the screen and say HELLO, too! It was a very happy accident -- don't feel bad! Thanks for
helping to make my day! In fact, thanks to everybody here for making my day. Great party guys! You're all delightfully twisted! I myself was content to listen to all the chaos from the little room where the gang was watching videos. I would
have posted, but I had promised dear Jamie that I would hold his cold hands in mine to keep them warm. (Sigh) What can I say, one doesn't like to break one's promises... Yippie Kai Yay Debbie PS: Liz Anne -- Karina has fixed it so that
"foo" automatically follows everybody's E-mail address whenever they post something here. See ya... Re the AR posting last week IMHO it wasn't AR, I think the e-mail address gave it away "nowayfoo" - I've seen "foo" in quite a few e-mail addresses so whoever wrote it I am sure is au fair with the
'Net. Somehow I don't see AR as a computer literate person (where did I read about those long hand-written letters to the author of The Winter's Guest.....?)
Mary Anne, I'm, afraid that I'd already broached the subject with the Colonel. Angels and ministers of grace defend us! Look you how pale he glares. How much I had to do to calm his rage! ("Upon the heat and flame of thy distemper sprinkle cool patience!") The sight was dismal. Alas, your entreaties came too late. Shame, shame and eternal shame! But, dearest, you *do* get the Hans Grovel Award. I must away, lest more mischance on plots and error happen. Sorry. I had to collect myself. I'm going home, now... (whew!) My roomie said her only thought was "I'm going to die!" Needless to say, it broke her snit. Sorry about the tentacle, but I got all excited thinking about AR as the Prince of Darkness (not to be confused with "Dark Prince of Destiny").
Karina, thank you for hosting a loud and messy party, and cleaning up some of the entries which looked like *they'd* been sloshing down detonators. Between graduation and party duties, you even slipped in the browser chat page. How *does* she do it? Cheers to you. (Clink!)
Was at Suncoast Video last night, and purchased
wide-screen versions of DH, S&S and RHPOT.
Way too shy to participate at the party, but I was
sitting in a corner watching you all.
Ellen: Keeping you in my prayers.
The browser chat page is all set up.
For those of you who just come straight to the guestbook, check out the main intro page for the latest scoop on the Almeida.
And, for those of you who mix up your HTML occassionally, don't feel bad,
I just did it with this posting, but I have the advantage of being able to
fix things immediately.
2) I have the code for the chat page, but I accidently typed the URL wrong to the supporting pchat group and they have to correct it at their end or it won't work.
3) The party was a blast. I was scurrying around, but it's amazing how much "trouble" one can get into scurrying amidst that company. Give me champagne and gorgeous accents and I will melt into a tiny (well, not so tiny) puddle.
(Did I get you with that IMHO, Nicole? It means "in my humble opinion")
Thank you for your understanding.
Ellen, thank you for being here. You are a strong and intelligent and determined woman. i feel priveleged to have known you here. Keep writing to Maxine, she's a good friend. I'm glad to see we didn't trash the wine bar too badly, I think once the furniture is back in place the damage won't be much. Maybe all those charges on our credit cards will go through now (smile). My
return ticket isn't for a bit, hope to see some of you around the neighborhood ... Rax, dance with you? Well, of course! This looks to be a wild and wonderful time together. Karina, (over the loud buzz of conversation) the chat idea sounds GREAT! AR , if that's
really you, isn't this a riot? Check in often.
2) Look for a change in the chat in the next couple of days. I have found a way to set up a chat directly from the web page, no more IRC necessary. However, one does have to have a reasonably current copy of their web browser of choice...one that
supports java. Let me know your thoughts on this.
What makes this neat is that one can just click at any time and see if someone's there, if not just move on to whatever other web stuff you want.
The reason I say the next few days is that tomorrow and Thursday are crazed due to the last couple of days of school and my daughter's graduation from elementary school. I would like to think I will get the thing set up tomorrow evening.
And no, everyone is not wearing black, Rebecca. With Hans on my arm, red feels **luscious**.
So, here I come to the party! I've rented a vintage Jaguar for this elegant occasion. No, I don't guess I'll need the collision waiver. Off I go driving down the right side of the street (What is everybody yelling at?!?), as I approach the bar I see that the streets are pretty narrow. I guess we're just supposed to park off the pavement. Oops! Sorry mister, did I hurt your dog? I guess this must be the place...In I go, that hot roller I couldn't find stuck to the back of my head. Over the threshold, and PLOP onto the floor as I trip over a singing monk. Oh hello, Father Gregori! Hmmm, you seem to have been here a while already. Jamie rolls his eyes and tells me I'm hopeless, George sees it as an opportunity, "As long as you're already down on the floor..." Thank God for dear sweet Sinclair who has appointed himself host for the evening. He helps me up with assistance of Colonel Brandon. Gesturing to the wine list, he asks me "what's you're pleasure?" "Pour me a big glass of Merlot and let you know" ;-)
Yeah, I need a drink!!
The management of the Almeida Wine Bar assumes no liability for injury or loss sustained to any patron due to reasons including, but not limited to: Petty Theft, Grand Theft, Larceny, Grand Larceny, Terrorism, Sword Fights, Gunshots, Bomb Blasts, Major Organs Removed by Spoon or any other silverware, Aboriginal Uprising, Revolution, Hypnotism, Mesmerization, Torture, Barbecuing, Offers of Non-potable Beverages not provided by this establishment, Kidnapping, Rape, Molestation, Incest, Adultery, Fornication, Death by Drowning or Sore Throats, Excess Intoxication, Impolitic Cruelty or the Cancellation of Christmas.
Thank you.
Why can't I be a normal person and concentrate on my work??? Arrgh.
I guess no news is good news about that bomb, at least we have one pair of watchful eys - Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you the FBI!
Oh, well...me go now. Pahlish shooz for big swahray at Almeeta...
I'm unplugging this bloody thing until later
Liz Anne, you're right - the
word at Heathrow is that some sort of bomb threat was *unofficially* reported, but the identity of the alleged suspect(s), and his/their whereabouts are currently unknown. Keep your eyes open for some antics from these troublemakers - they can get carried away even before the party starts! (And yes, I'm sure it will be a marathon party continuing into the weekend, don't you think?) I hope the party's still going when I get to work in the morning.
And what kind of decorations are we going to put up? ;-)
Yes, Noel, that photo wins - hands down. Hands up? Hans up? Can we decide on a set date and time for the party, so we can all be there? Cheers!
"...and when we kissed, which was at about 11 o'clock
the following morning, we were trembling so much
we couldn't take off our clothes." ...
"...my feet will want to march to where you are
sleeping, but I will go on living"
I do read the Current Guestbook almost every day and enjoy
all your comments very much. Cheers.
I had a pretty good time this weekend. I went down to San Diego and did a little swap-meetin'. I was able to get QDU and DH for $5 apiece. Now I can finally throw out my old tatty taped-from-TV copies. Continuing in the AR vein, I also obtained a RHPOT Sheriff of Nottingham Doll. I can understand now why AR was so inclined to make fun of it. It's rrrealllly ugly and bears no resemblance to AR at all. On the up side, the package has a nice sort of melancholy-faced picture of our dear Georgie on the
front. So, for a couple of dollars, why not? Lastly, whilst on a pub-crawl, I deciding to continue my AR binge by sampling a brew called Rasputin Imperial Stout. Take my word, DON'T EVER DRINK THIS! I'm pretty sure this stuff was brewed by the Interrogator. Although I personally like Imperial Stout, this stuff tasted like I'm sure old Raz smelled after two drunken days in the alley.
I'd love to see Rickman work with Leo McKern, something in the
likes of The Prisioner (the sixties series with P. McGoohan, who
I also like). (Won't go into who I don't like, too many!).
I can just imagine Rickman's voice at the beginning saying
"I am not a number..."(sigh!). Come to think of it, with 60's
remakes now in fashion, Potmeirion still in Wales, and a good script...
According to Janet Maslin (NY Times film reveiwer), Lee "creates as intricate a social and cultural web here as he did in "Sense and Sensibility," despite a vastly different milieu." [The] beautifaully acted drama takes a cool, disturbing look at ties that fail to bind." The film stars Kevin Kline, Sigourney Weaver, Joan Allen and Jamey Sheridan.
There's also this thermos lying around - anyone know what it is? The cap's screwed on pretty tight but if I can just...(huhnnnnnfffuh)
The bidding for that item closed. (The cruelty, the impolitic
cruelty.) January Man had it's moments but I cannot commend a movie in which our boy is 'silent, practically completely silent'. Fav line: Kevin wants to talk to Ed so Ed instructs his semi-clad model, "You, just languish there." Items for the silent auction? Obidiah's prayer book. Elliot's holster. Dinner with Sinclair. One of Ed's paintings. A signed copy of Peter Pan from O'Hara.
I was able to take some time off last week and lo and behold on the very first day of my vacation, my copy of Barchester Chronicles arrived! Needless to say, that first day's plans were quickly set aside. Without a doubt, this story was one of the most enjoyable I have seen in a long time. I had forgotten how much I also admire the work of the lead actor, Donald Pleasence. Also, Nigel Hawthorn had me in stitches with his portrayal of the clamorous archdeacon. Now, I hope I'm not going to open a can of worms with this one, but I have got to say that out of all of AR's characters that I have seen, Obadiah Slope "creeps me out" the most. Yes, even more than the Interrogator. I think maybe it's because out of all of AR's characters, Mr. Slope is the one type of personality (conniving, unctuous, etc.) that I find most disagreeable in real life. I was therefore elated (ROTFL) when Eleanor Bold dealt with him in her "special" way at the garden party. (I choose not to relate the exact details here lest I
spoil the surprise for anyone who hasn't seen it yet). On the up side, AR was so very handsome in his own right. Tall and skinny, those hands, and in particular, didn't his skin look good? So smooooth. Like Slope himself.
Side note, WELCOME BACK MARY ANNE! Now the Almeida wine bar party can start....
"She compares breasts with Pamela Anderson Lee and nasal hair with Goldie Hawn. She frankly discusses odd odors on a shop-till-you drop outing with Bette Midler. She's not your everyday interviewer. She's Ruby Wax, the American actress-comedian (and cowriter of Absolutely Fabulous) who has become a star on British TV with her irreverent, extremely forward way of chatting up celebrities.
There's a picture of Ruby and Goldie sitting up in a bed, smiling for the camera. Should be interesting to watch (Mondays 8:30 p.m. ET on Fox).
Saw an interview with Ang Lee (S&S) this afternoon about a new film coming out called
The Ice Storm. It stars Kevin Kline (January Man). Looks pretty decent from
the clips they included.
I would like to chime in as being, apparently, one of the few people who actually
liked the afore-mentioned January Man.
Mary Anne, dearest, of *course* we fired into the empty air.
From: Victoria Moss
Date: 1997/06/26
Message-Id: <33B33231.13A4@erols.com>
Newsgroups: rec.arts.henson+muppets
AIRING FIVE EPISODES
OF JIM HENSON'S THE
STORYTELLER AND JIM
HENSON'S GREEK MYTHS
NEVER BEFORE
PRESENTED IN THE U.S. THIS FALL
BTW, additional actors that I know are in the series:
Michael Gambon's the Greek Myths storyteller. Sean Bean's an enchanted
prince (we think) in "The True Bride", James Wilby's the prince in
"Sapsorrow", Saunders & French are the wicked stepsisters in "Sapsorrow",
Bob Peck's the soldier in "The Soldier and Death", no idea what Gemma
Jones is in, but Storyteller was listed on her credits. Derek Jacobi is
Daedalus and Art Malik's
Orpheus. Just trust me. It's British-actor-rama.
Karina <karina@fred.netfoo>
USA - 06/29/97 at 17:38:46
Re: Laura, I don't know about Amazon but the "right" version of Return of the Native CAN be found at
The Internet Talking Bookshop. Click on Un-Abridged and you will find Thomas Hardy under Classic Literature.
An excerpt of the description says, "...Alan Rickman's reading is outstanding. He has a plausible and adaptable West Country burr, and he sings the local folk songs tunefully. But more than this he has the perfectly paced delivery for the dense passages of description and narrative that brings the novel to life."
Suzanne K. <skurtz@cvtv.netfoo>
Hallettsville, TX USA - 06/29/97 at 16:55:18
Can anyone verify that the following, snipped from Amazon Books website, is the 'right' ROTN....you know, the one with AR narrating? The one in the FAQ here shows a different pub. date & ISBN, but searches on that ISBN at several websites, the library,
etc have come up empty so far. Any info much appreciated.
by Thomas Hardy
Cassettes Edition
Published by John Curley & Assoc
Publication date: January 1991
ISBN: 9992684429
List: $94.95 ~ Our Price: $94.95
Laura Sparer <lsparer@ucit.comfoo>
Nashville, TN USA - 06/29/97 at 13:32:35
Thanks for the rare pic sighting, Eva. Karina, I haven't seen this photo, is it worth adding to the photo page?
Renie
CA, USA - 06/29/97 at 12:17:01
There is a great picture of AR in British OK Magazine date , June 26where he is attending a star studded party/carneval in Venice. Either he is standing in a storm or he has changed into a new hairstyle (it the later is the case it is very becoming). T
he magazine also includes some snaps of Ralph Fiennes in the Avengers.
Eva
Copenhagen, Denmark - 06/29/97 at 06:45:25
What do you think of AR with Harrison Ford or Donald Sutherland?...
I know most of these roles have been done to death, but what about AR as Columbus, Gallileo, Michaelangelo or Don Quixote? I know they're not very original ideas, but I'll bet our boy would bring a fresh approach to playing all of them.
For any of you out there who enjoy Morgan Llywelyn's historical novels about the Celts and ancient Ireland, what do you think of Ar as one of her heroes? or one of her baddies, for that matter. Just a thought.
Deb A. <maalbers@uniserve.comfoo>
Canada - 06/29/97 at 01:05:28
AR and Ciaren Hinds playing brothers, fabulous concept. But
the only way they could play in a film together. They are SOO much alike, tall, rugged, dark, swarthy and those voices! Anything but brothers would be absolutely too confusing. How about AR playing against Judy Davis.... ah dreaming again. Re Jeremy Northam in M&S: I'm sorry but he reminds of a stereotype of a dropp dead gorgeous British Gentleman a la Cary Grant. JN, Pierce Brosnan, and the bloke from the Nanny, I get them all confused - totally interchangeble. JN in Emma? Who of us didn't know she
was going to fall for him. If ever a part was made for AR... obviously older, stoic, dignified, mannered.. not a show pony JN.
Stephanie <fewings@satech.net.aufoo>
Adelaide, Australia - 06/28/97 at 20:24:21
Joan - I had similar problems not being to download the wave files. Some kind person e-mailed some to me, before the sound page was set up, so if you let me know your E address, I will send some to you - I can zip them to make it faster if you like.
Claudia
Claudia <claudia-riley@xtra.co.nzfoo>
- 06/28/97 at 19:11:20
I must be stuck in a time warp or something - I can only get into the guestbooks - and keep getting the message that the main page doesn't exist!! Am I trapped in here for ever?! Oh, well, at least there is good company in here.
Claudia
nz - 06/28/97 at 17:07:57
The Amazon addres is www.amazon.com Sorry for the confusion, I had put brackets in and that must delete things. I hope my first post did not go through in multiple copies. I am already embarrassed about the address so I ask your forgiveness an patience. Have been trying to download sound waves and am now logging off in frustration!
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/28/97 at 12:03:18
Just received a message from Amazon that my back-order for 'Blind Corner' is in!!! The audio book is listed as out of print, but they will put you on a waiting list in case a copy comes in. Their address is
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/28/97 at 11:43:21
Thank you, dear Karina, for getting his voice back on the page! I missed it! Was wonderful to hear this morning! And I am giddy over the prospect of him playing George Washington! I hope it is true!!!! Thanks for all the info!
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/28/97 at 11:33:43
Oh and Eva? Yes, yes, yes (or should I say no, no, no) to
your list especially the insufferable Melanie Griffith...we
will need a tisane laced with bourbon to get thru. that!
Noel
USA - 06/27/97 at 23:08:24
Bonanza!! Marvelous news about "Liberty" and on t.v. (all
vcr's at the ready!) Let's all keep our fingers crossed. Thanks for the research on the Venice Film Fest. and TWG.
Usually the entertainment magazines like "Entertainment Weekly" and "Us" have special issues on Fall releases--I hope TWG gets a big push and lots of publicity. Maybe now that Emma is filming opposite J. Travolta in "Primary Colors" will keep her fresh in the media's eye and there will be lots of coverage. We are all starved for news of the Beloved so any little tidbit is much appreciated!! I
think AR will be a superb Washington altho. I would have picked T. Jefferson first for him. I wonder who will play
Martha? I also would like to see AR play opposite Helen
Mirren. And yes a leading romantic role is long overdue!
TMD, Noel
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/27/97 at 23:04:34
Actors I'd love to see opposite AR:
Rebecca J. Anderson
Canada - 06/27/97 at 22:07:05
Here's hoping that the info on "Liberty" comes to fruition! That would be incredible! I know there was a request for lists of who you wouldn't want to see Alan with, but I've never written down my fantasy: I'd love to see him act with Brian Dennehy!
That's all I have to say.
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/27/97 at 21:17:33
Information about the "Liberty" project can be found at:
http://www.pbs.org/ktca/liberty/index.html
No mention of any specifice actors but it says "a cast of renowned actors from the NY and London stage"
Chris <ckwible@ptd.netfoo>
NJ USA - 06/27/97 at 21:16:20
Quick update on AR as George Washington:
Rebecca J. Anderson
CANADA - 06/27/97 at 20:11:42
Rebecca: let us know any further information you may find about this project. I'm having a bit of trouble getting my brain firmly around that casting. AR has gone to great lengths in the past to avoid wigs, I'm sure he'll find a way around it here
too. He has such marvelous hair of his own, especially when worn longer. What would the time frame be for this project I wonder. Anyone know when Moon and Sixpence will shoot and where? Looks like we're in for more of the Beloved after too long a dry
spell.
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, Wa USA - 06/27/97 at 19:50:42
Feore... will also play american patriot (and lawyer) John Adams opposite Alan Rickman's George Washington in PBS's Liberty.
Rebecca J. Anderson <rebeccaj@pobox.comfoo>
Stratford, ON CANADA - 06/27/97 at 19:36:08
Karina,
Is there any hope of AR being on our screens later this year?. I'm fed up waiting to hear about the release of
TWG. There simply isn't enought of AR on our screens
at the moment. I could certainly do with some cheering up,
A bit of AR would make me feel 100% better.
I cant wait for the day he's cast in a romantic lead!.
oooh, what a thought eh?. Be still my beating heart.
Daryl <DGILLESPIE1@COMPUSERVE.COMfoo>
Glasgow, Scotland - 06/27/97 at 17:46:42
I am delighted over the enthusiasm you are manifesting for such a fine actor like Alan Rickman. He showes us what his profession is really about. Capturing the moment on stage, silverscreen, and television.
JoMenVisst! Jonas
Gävle, Sweden - 06/27/97 at 16:33:08
Still looking for more, but according to Reuter's, the dates for the Venice Film Festival are: 8/27 - 9/6, 1997.
Karina
USA - 06/27/97 at 15:18:10
Oh wow! AR and RF is R and G are Dead? What a wonderful idea...still, Ralph may have to die his hair black to look a bit more similar to AR? so the confusing the names jokes will work. Oh wow, I'd love to see that. I mean Simon Russel Beale and Adrian
Scarborogh (in an RNT version) were great nut AR and RF I'm fantasising about it already! :-)...pity it's not gonna happen :-(
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/27/97 at 15:01:26
Check out the page for Fine Line Pictures at www.flf.com. TWG is listed among the upcoming 1997 releases and for what it's worth, an excerpt from a Winter Guest press release runs: "In his directorial debut, Alan Rickman suggests that in the smallest
details and subtlest nuances, the most telling and profound epiphanies can come to light."
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/27/97 at 13:04:50
My fantasy project would be Rickman and Fiennes together in "Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead."
I've seen both fellows performing Hamlet and I think it would be funny/ironic/cool for the two ex-Hamlets to do Tom Stoppard's masterpiece.
At the Almeida with a NY transfer followed by a film.
Hilary <eekahil@aol.comfoo>
USA - 06/27/97 at 12:25:18
I'm applauding you, Andrea on Long Island. A Yahoo romp through international film festivals (who knew there were so many?) took me to the 53rd Mostra Internazionale d'Arte Cinematografica di Venezia--i.e., last year's Venice Film Festival at www.doge.it/mostra/mostra.html. I haven't been able yet to find a site for the 54th Festival and its schedule of films, but I'm extrapolating that it will run from August 29-September 5.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/27/97 at 11:31:35
Please not Natascha Richardson, she is so smug!! Did you know that it was considered casting the Richardson sisters as Elinor and Marianne Dashwood? I would rather not se AR against Liv Tyler, Demi More, Helena Bonham Carter, Sylvester Stallone, Arnold
Schwartenegger, Steven Seagal, Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Madonna and Melanie Griffiths. I would love to see him united with the casts of January Man, S&S, AABA and yet RHPOT, though necessarily not in the same caracters. Any ideas?
Eva
Copenhagen, Denmark - 06/27/97 at 10:21:31
Chris -- thanks for the info. I just placed my order forThe Captain's Verses. Amazon has it for $7.96. The one review listed was tantalizing. I'm sure I'll read with a certain "voice" in my head (but not in Spanish). I'm off tomorrow for vacation and will be computerless for ten days. I'm already looking forward to catching up with you all when I return. Bye!
BC
Washington, DC USA - 06/27/97 at 10:08:06
Thanks much, Chris. I hang out at Amazon quite a bit and have found many things there I couldn't find anywhere else. On the "actresses" thread, I still vote for the lovely Jodie Foster. After holding her own in a film with the magnificent Sir Anthony Hopkins, she's capable of anything. But I can't keep reading the "never work with" thread--there's not a tisane in the world strong enough! Bleah . . . 8-)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/27/97 at 09:23:39
Joan: I actually do like Mia Farrow and I loved "Widow's
Peak" as well. I guess I was thinking about her playing
opposite Liam Neeson in that Woody Allen film that I can't
remember the name of! grr.. I think AR and Natasha would
be great together...she has a certain presence I think.
Have a great weekend all and please let us hope that AR will
never take a role in a film with...Alicia Silverstone, Glenn
Close (remember her comment about British actors?) Drew
Barrymore and Whoppi Goldberg. I would like to see him with
Dianne Wiest, Sigourney Weaver, Kevin Kline or Ciaran Hinds
(which happily looks like this may happen!) TMD, Noel
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/27/97 at 08:58:01
For the yes list, Natasha Richardson and her sister,
Joely. Joely was in a movie called Wetherby several years ago with V. Redgrave, her mother, and was heartbreaking.
Emma
USA - 06/27/97 at 08:43:41
Noel, I agree with your Alan no-no's for co-stars except for one. Take a look at the video "Widow's Peak" and you may change your mind about Mia Farrow. Natasha richardson is also in the film and would LOVE to see her opposite AR (if Liam would let her)! How about Meryl Streep on the yes list, just saw 'Marvin's Room' and she was wonderful. Add to my no's Michelle Pffeifer and Uma Thurman.
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/27/97 at 07:57:54
Whew! Had to take a break--the possibilities are endless.
That lot would definitely be a tier in Dante's "Inferno"!
About Joseph Fiennes--he is apparently a model for a Marks
& Spencer campaign. I have heard he is talented as well.
What I enjoy about AR is that he is a movie star in the classic sense like Jimmy Stewart. Not their acting styles
mind you, but men of integrity and class (Tom Hanks falls in
this category too I think.) Although we would all LOVE to
hear more news about what AR is up too, aren't you glad we
don't have to go to the Enquirer et al for info.?
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/26/97 at 21:54:32
It is not a nice thing to reveal about oneself...being catty
is so much easier (and often more fun!) AR should never, ever work with: Darryl Hannah, Liv Tyler, Pauley Shore,
Barbra Streisand, Farrah Fawcett, Jean Claude Van Damme,
Steven Seagal, Sylvester Stallone, Mia Farrow and of course
Demi (you know who...shudder.) Kate, please pass the tisane
and tums.
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/26/97 at 21:48:45
Mary Anne: The book is The Captain's Verses by Pablo
Neruda. If you need the ISBN you can find the book
online by using the search routine at Amazon.com:
http://www.amazon.com/
Chris <ckwible@ptd.netfoo>
NJ USA - 06/26/97 at 20:32:28
According to Internet Movie Database Search, TWG will be released in the USA in December. Can anyone tell us when the Venice Film Festival will be? Cheers.
Andrea
LI, NY USA - 06/26/97 at 18:32:43
Back to the little dog thread in S&S. Did anyone else notice the change in position of Lucy's hand before she is flown at. She's petting the dog's ear and then it cuts to a shot of her from Fanny's direction and her hand in lower, around his neck...... You two aren't the only ones who noticed the dog's disappearance act. I think I watch that film too much!! no, I know I do!
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/26/97 at 18:32:41
Just got finished watching "Michael Collins" on video! He was really great in that. I'm anxious to see him do some leading roles in films. He is so wonderful. I just can't seem to get enough of him. Is he also going to act in " The Winter Guest"
or just directing it? You know when you live here in Arkansas in the "boonies" you don't get much entertainment news, except all the Clinton controversy! Talk to "ya'll" later! Corby
Cosrby <don.corby.carlton@worldnet.att.netfoo>
Bryant, AR USA - 06/26/97 at 18:18:38
Thanks, BC in DC! 8-)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/26/97 at 18:00:58
Mary Anne -- the poem is The Dead Woman by Pablo Neruda. Its in a collection that I've forgotten the title of -- something to do with Captains and the sea. If you find it, I'd appreciate knowing where, because I've been to many bookstores and
I even checked with the Library of Congress. They don't have it, but they did supply the name of the collection. Good luck.
BC
Washington, DC USA - 06/26/97 at 17:58:46
Quick, Kate, a nice jasmine tisane for you. I think I'll have one myself after that comment . . . yick! Could someone be so kind as to give a reference for the lovely Spanish poem Jamie and Nina recite together in TMD? Title, author?
Mary Anne
USA - 06/26/97 at 17:29:44
Oooo...Kate...yuck! (Please, just had lunch.) Actually, I'd love to see him in a movie with kids. I think he's fond of kids and I love to see him act tenderly and caring like with Alexie and that cute "salute" to Captain Margaret. I think he'd make
an endearing Dad-type in some great little film...like a remake of Captains Courageous.
Debbye
Washington, DC USA - 06/26/97 at 16:35:26
Just the thought of AR in a movie with Demie Moore makes me nauseated. I think I need a tisane....
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/26/97 at 14:29:52
P.S. Gary Sinise is a terrific actor but not a funny talk show guest. Kim Bassinger has had to work really hard at it. She was a picture of terror when she first went on Letterman. Harrison Ford has also had to work to overcome shyness in front of a
live audience. He was so nervous in his first Star Wars interviews that he used to make Mark Hamill come out with him. On the other hand Tom Hanks is terrific.
Laurie
Toronto, Canada - 06/26/97 at 14:07:10
AR AND Jeremy Northam! Be still my heart!
Laurie <lreid@cga.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/26/97 at 13:58:47
Fiennes dropping out of the Moon and Sixpence is a big disappointment. I know I'm not alone in wanting to see Fiennes and AR together, either onstage or onscreen. (Reading about "Love in a Cold Climate" is as close as I've gotten.) I agree that for the most part, Fiennes is not at home in live interviews. Like many other actors, including AR, he believes that journalists overstep their bounds and should focus on the actor's work, but he can't natter away about the work itself either, so it's more than just a reticence about his private life. Although some may disagree (I can't help remembering someone's past expression here that he was "as cold as old toast"), I believe he does have those qualities besides talent, they just may not "come across" in talk shows or live interviews, or even, arguably, in print articles. (I'm afraid I can't help Brad Pitt out, though. And I think Pitt would suffer Costner's fate if he ever was in a picture with AR.)
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/26/97 at 13:45:30
Susan: Yes indeed. Ralph's bro (young Joseph) is indeed totally gorgeos and darned talented (I saw him in ' Trolius and Cressida' in which he played Trolius (in leather trews:-) and was fabulous. You have great taste :-)
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/26/97 at 13:41:33
As a diehard [:)] animal lover, I'm so glad to read that others were concerned about the little dog in the S&S scene between Fanny and Lucy!! I thought they would at least have him barking--maybe he did but they didn't want the dialogue drowned out.
I was also interested to read that a lot of actors aren't interviewed on talk shows because, well, they're just not very bright. I think Alan would make a wonderful interviewee if he had an equally sharp-minded person doing the interviewing. What do you
think about him and David Letterman together? Oprah or Rosie would be great with him.
May I suggest that Ralph Fiennes' brother, Joseph, be considered for any parts that Ralph wasn't considered for or turned down. I saw him in London in The Woman in Black. He's extremely talented and drop-dead gorgeous. I really think he and Alan would
have a marvelous chemistry.
Can we start on thread on the Top Ten Actors/Actresses that Alan should never, ever, ever work with?
Susan <susan.fanning@mcmail.vanderbilt.edufoo>
Nashville, TN USA - 06/26/97 at 13:09:45
Teri - I've also noticed about the disappearance of the dog in S&S - I guess they didn't want the little thing caught up in that very unladylike brawl so although from a continuity point of view it's bad, full marks from an animal rights pov.
Liz Anne
St Albans, England - 06/26/97 at 07:23:34
Sorry to be a spoilsport but Ralph Fiennes will apperantly not be in the Moon and Sixpence. The official listing at Cannes had Jeremy Northam and Irene Jacob as the co-stars for AR. Regarding why AR does not appear in more interviews and talkshows the
answer is simply that he does not want to. The media would love to do them as he is intelligent, entertaining and articulate, where many popular actors are not, including Ralph Fiennes, who apperantly almost once lost his career through a very bad interview. Have you ever wondered why you see so little interview with a popular actor like Brad Pitt? Basicly because he does not come over well in live sessions. You hardly had any interviews with RF regarding the English Patient, probably due to the same reason.
Eva
Copenhagen, Denmark - 06/26/97 at 02:44:43
Thanks, Noel. Believe it or not, I've been here for quite
a while. I just haven't posted lately at all. I'm as 'big' a
fan, just not as verbous (not meant in a negative sense) or articulate, I'm afraid! You all do a great
job and I really enjoy reading your comments. I spent some time yesterday showing some of my
daughter's friends different segments of AR's movies and was pointing out
his vast diversity and abilities. His resume is really impressive. It was an easy sell...new Rickmaniacs!
Teri
Gettysburg, Pa USA - 06/25/97 at 23:57:09
It is nice to hear some new voices (not that there is anything
wrong with the old!) Welcome Corby, Teri, Suzanne G. and
anyone else I am forgetting. Lots of news and clarification
altho. I am having a hard time imagining AR bidding on Di's
gowns! I see him more perusing antiques and old manuscripts!
Noel Moyer <nmm@episcopalhighschool.orgfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/25/97 at 22:35:19
Sorry, don't know why that web site address didn't go through here it is: www.videoflicks.com
Joan
L.I., Ny USA - 06/25/97 at 22:02:23
Re: SEAGULL Alan did it it was set in Ireland so all the names were changed but he played the writer. Re: Rima in Di's gowns. Maybe after a lot of alterations. Di is about 5'9" or 5'10" Rima is around 5'0" to 5'2". RE: TMD at the Alamdia benefit. Francesca didn't read Nina's part, Natasha Richardson did (and very well).
KelClancy <KelClancy@worldnet.att.netfoo>
USA - 06/25/97 at 21:28:05
This is extremely trivial, but has anyone noticed, in S&S, how the dog on Lucy's lapevaporates into thin air as soon as she is attacked by her future sister-in-law? I think
I watch that movie waaay too much. My husband just ordered more Rickman movies! Life is good.
Teri
Gettysburg, Pa USA - 06/25/97 at 20:18:44
If you are interested in buying any of AR's videos try this site
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/25/97 at 19:23:13
As a recent fan of Alan Rickman, I'm curious too as to why the U.S. talk shows, etc. haven't talked much about this talented actor. I think he is wonderful! It seems to me if there is one person that might have him on, it would be Rosie O"Donnell.
I would love to see him on her show. We just don't get to see enough of him.
Corby <Don.Corby.Carlton@Worldnet.att.netfoo>
Bryant, AR USA - 06/25/97 at 17:11:26
Quick post from Rick Heaven: Laurie...now you talkin'! I love LILLIE and Peter Egan was superb. (I have a picture of Oscar with this quote over my desk, "Oh, I've had a very exhausting day. I spent all morning putting in a comma and all afternoon taking it out." LILLIE is available for about $100.00. I've seen some posts where people questioned, "What does RF see in Francesca Annis, but if you see LILLIE maybe it may be a little clearer. She must have some of that left! I understand she did a reading with Our Boy from TMD. Must have been ab fab--she is a wonderful actress. AR and De Profundis is a natural. (AR and anything is fine with me.) You know, I don't really know who RF is, but I dropped in on his fan page and saw his picture. Now I
can understand why he is mentioned so much by Rickmaniacs. If he can hold his own in the acting department it might be intriguing to pair him with The Beloved Alan.
Debbye
Washington, DC USA - 06/25/97 at 15:48:02
Told my best friend and HUGE fan of AR and RF about the 'Moon & Sixpence.' Her reaction was,"Oh my God! The dynamic duo!"
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/25/97 at 15:16:57
Karina, thanks for adding that virtual guest page. I am a purist,(or even just a stick in the mud) and I couldn't really appreciate all the party chat. I want to remind everybody of Emma Thompson's terrific book,THE SENSE AND SENSIBILITY SCREENPLAY AND
DIARIES. I came across it at our local library. Reading the script is as good as seeing the movie. She certainly deserved the Oscar she won. And of course the diaries are so reavealing and informative. Making a movie is very hard. Plus, there are sensational pictures of the cast, including our fab Alan.
Suzanne G <SzieQ@aol.comfoo>
Los Angeles, USA - 06/25/97 at 15:10:13
I'm thrilled that there are so many Alan Rickman fans. I have not seen many of his films, but it is a pleasure to see such talent. Sense and Sensibility was superb (How could any woman not adore Colonel Brandon!). Rasputin was captivating, and I was
thrilled that he won the award for that picture. I look forward to seeing him perform again soon. I'm glad that I found the Rickman fan pages.
nancy <oct1589foo>
USA - 06/25/97 at 15:05:09
I still want to see our boy in some out and out farce. Perhaps a remake of "The Bells of St. Trinian's" playing both the cheap hood and his sister, the stuffy headmistress. Can't you just see AR with that overblown sense of confidence. Then his face crumbles as he realises that his plan is going awry. He dashes madly off to try to save it. Maybe "The Lavendar Hill Mob". Gee, I've got to go watch all those old Ealing comedies again. They were fun.
Laurie <lreid@cga.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/25/97 at 14:25:00
Regarding Onegin again: Sorry, but it's just wishful thinking that AR is involved with this project, at least at this point. (But I've got my fingers crossed, Eva.) Jude Law is also in it with Liv Tyler. Ralph is doing the film with his sister, and
he's a co-producer, I believe. Production will start in the fall. Ellen in England, you'll be able to see him in the film of Peter Carey's Booker-Prize winning Oscar & Lucinda, with, I'm told, Ciarian Hinds in the cast. O&L has a fall release. There are many guestbook entries regarding the lucky ones who saw Ivanov at the Almeida (I'm *still* jealous), you might want to check them out.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/25/97 at 12:50:12
I'd like to know if Rima Horton would consider taking an appointment in the new administration if an interesting position in education or labor policy (or urban issues?) were to be offered. I would think she'd jump at the chance, but maybe other commitments beckon.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/25/97 at 12:11:00
Heard a rumor that AR would be at Christie's tonight, bidding on Di's dresses for Rima. She's about the right size, although she'd no doubt have to take up the hem. (Maybe I started that rumor). I want one of those dresses for my birthday! They are
about the right size, although I'd have to take up the hem. The price tags have dropped from $16,000 to $500 starting bids. My daughters could have fun playing dress-up in them, although they are still a bit pricey for that.
susan
USA - 06/25/97 at 09:58:28
When is this film with Ralph (I'm hopeing we're all pronouncing his name right:-) Fiennes comingout?
I cannot wait! I have to admit. Ralph is one of the only ppl I love more than...no I can't say it, I'll be thrown out :-)
Anyone see him in Ivanov (by Chekhov which is incidently the name of my goat (?!)...er..I can see you wanted to know that)?er...what was I talking about? Ivanov...yeah anone happen to see it?...I shouldnt think so, it was in London and tickets sold out almost immediatly.
Anyway, it was totally incredible and really proved that Ralph is a *TOP CLASS* actor. Actually AR would make a fantastic Nikoli Ivanov...very mean and moody but we feel sorry for him somehow. I reckon it's about time AR returned to Chekhov (I'm not biased! (I LOVE Chekhov)).
Last time we saw him in a Chekhov play was the 70s (possibly) in Uncle Vanya with Ian McKellen (oh how I wish I was born then and could see it (Ian is my other dog :-)
He'd be too old for Konstantin in The Seagull but in his youth that'd have been a greta part for him...
How about Baal in 'Baal' (suprisingly:-) by Brecht. (one of his early plays and very strange)...m'be he's a bit thin...ah well, Im rambling again...sorry.
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/25/97 at 04:57:28
Regarding Onegin. The movie will be made starring Ralph Fiennes and possibly Liv Tyler (she would not be my choice). I do not think AR has been casted but there is a part in the story, that is in some respect very like Col. Brandon, the older rich miletary man who marries the young heroine after she had her heart broken by Onegin. Regarding Allyan there has been two actors in the part at BBc Simon Williams (James Bellamy of Upstairs Downstairs) in the pilot and the truly great Patrick Malahide
Eva
Copenhagen, Denmark - 06/25/97 at 02:52:47
Well, ladies and gentlemen, I had an interesting weekend. I wentt dancing with a very attractive man who is a former professor of economics and got his advanced degree from the London School of Economics. I think he knows Rima Horton. So does anybody have any questionsfor her they'd like me to relay? Clean questions, that is. These are distinguished and dignified people. I can't guarantee we'll get any answers, but it's worth a shot, don't you think?
Andrea <Ondreja@aol.comfoo>
MD USA - 06/25/97 at 01:33:27
Okay, make fun of me again..if you see, I don't. That's okay. Ralph and AR in the same film? oooo..someone's dreaming. I threw in my hat for the bid of president of The tesla Wardenclyffe Project 97 and the current president and the treasurer are against me.. seems like nothings been done this past year and still they resent my "cut to the chase" attitude.. so I'm running! You can't vote, your not members.. but he author of Tesla, Man out of time, blushed tonight when I told her that she reminded me of Taylor Cauldwell.. you might be old enough to remember Jane Austen, but too young to recall Cauldwell.. anyway.. I also spoke to Robert Schwartz who said that they are close to having the script and being ready to go after the funds for the film on Tesla..oh, he spoke to me like I knew why these things took so long.... hello, I don't even know why the museum is taking so long..cut to the chase..No promise of who's going to play Tesla.. no promise of when production will begin..by the time thery're ready Finnes will be too old to play Tesla at 40!
Ellen
USA - 06/25/97 at 01:01:24
AR as Roderick Alleyn? Brilliant, Kate, and why didn't I think of that. Especially
in the earlier books which go back, I believe to the 1930's - Ngaio Marsh was
writing for an incredible length of time. I was deeply disappointed
in the series that the BBC produced a few years ago - the actor
playing Alleyn was totally colourless and the Troy (Alleyn's
artist wife who he initially meets as a suspect in one of his cases)
was nothing like the character as written.
Gail <grayment@istar.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/25/97 at 00:33:36
Ahh. Is AR doing De Profundis? I have to say, the master of talking Wilde has to be Simon Callow (the more asert of you will know him as my dog :-)
He did a one man show called 'The Importance of Being Oscar'. A sort of lecture with acting bits and poetry recitals...it was wonderful I have to say (written by Michael MacLiammoir if youre interested). Anyway, that involved an exerpt from DP but it would be great to see our Alan doing it. Anyone any idea if it's still going ahead?
Ellen
ST Albans, England - 06/24/97 at 18:13:45
I love the idea of AR in Martha Grimes' stories but would like to suggest Ngaio Marsh's Roderick Alleyn. One of my favorite bits is (I think) in *Black as He's Painted.* The police find the murder weapon (a luger *sp?*) in the ladies room and call the case "The Luger in the Ladies Loo." The stories are compelling and Alleyn is sophisticated and handsome. Sound like anyone we know?
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/24/97 at 17:53:58
Forgive me, I mean Debbye!
Emma
USA - 06/24/97 at 16:24:29
Debbey, I loved your comments on the tapes! I saw Patrick
Stewart's Christmas Carol, and a solo show for Rickman to
showcase would be rickmaniac heaven! PStewart does every
character with such intensity (and very physical) you end up
seeing the character instead of him (that might be a minus
for a Rickmaniac, though). Now, I remember reading here that
Rickman's doing De Profundis, which is very moving, but soo
depressing...What would be a good solo adaptation?
Emma
USA - 06/24/97 at 16:23:15
Why is it that American journalists don't interview AR? I think we need to start writing to Rosie.
Sarah <MadeleineY@aol.comfoo>
OH USA - 06/24/97 at 15:49:04
Re: Linehan. Debbie, thanks for the extended version. Once again, we see that the VCR is mightier than the memory. He did look lovely and please note that he did not look overly friendly with supercilious Linehan.
Laurie <lreid@cga.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/24/97 at 15:25:49
Someone (Eva, perhaps?) posted here some time ago about the possibility of a film
of Pushkin's *Eugen Onegin* with Ralph Fiennes in the title role, and
there was some mention (fact, rumor, wishful thinking?) of a
role for AR as well. I can confirm the project as far as Fiennes'
involvement goes--a friend of mine just returned from a trip
to Russia and saw an interview with Fiennes on Russian tv--
but the AR part remains to be confirmed. Something to keep an
eye on, especially for those of us who enjoy both actors.
Mary Anne
USA - 06/24/97 at 09:27:51
Noel...doesn't take long to receive "Chronicles" from Best Videos..couple of days! I'm thinking I better order another 'cuz I'm going to wear this one out! (Sleep by it, eat with it, it's always on...can't get enough of the Sublime Obadiah.) Atleast TMD gets a rest! Won't be dropping in for awhile, ("Please don't say anything important!"). Received "Return of the Native" last night and I'm in Rick Heaven! Much as I love each and everyone of you maniacs, I'd throw you all over for The Real McCoy!
Got through the first tape before sleep claimed me. Someone posted awhile ago they couldn't follow the story for concentrating on his pronunciation and of course the cadence and timbre of The Voice. (I don't know what they're talking about, do any of you??!!) He does the accents for each character so distinctly and convincingly (even the women) and sings the folksongs so well, it's a pure joy. I've always felt that British actors act with their voices for the most part...although I do appreciate the physicality of Peter O'Toole, Anthony Hopkins and especially AR. (The way he moves sometimes...a bunch of us were watching "Die Hard" and when Hans glided across the floor toward the miniature display everybody cried out, "Yo, that boy's got soul!") Gotta go now..tapes set up, earphones plugged in, office door closed...I'm ready. See y'all later. (Forgive me...just gushing. But I don't have to explain that to you.)
Debbye
Washington, DC USA - 06/24/97 at 08:44:40
I saw the Ruby Wax show tonight. I like the show. I like her. The show seems so out of control , though. No one ever seems to finish a whole thought or statement before they rush onto something else.
Siobhain <sdandy@fls.infi.netfoo>
VA USA - 06/24/97 at 04:13:08
*laffs* oh I seee Ellen. ok. er...no I don't :-P~...but I will when I finish my A-Levels (English exams) and have some more free time hehe
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/24/97 at 03:43:13
Oh my, how very formal most of you sound. I, on the other hand am a little more forward. Alan Rickman . . . hmmmm, what comes to mind when I think of Mr. Rickman? Possibly that he is one of the sexiest men alive? Maybe that he's a phenomenal actor?
Perhaps it's the fact that you hear that voice and your knees wilt like a plucked flower. At any rate, Alan Rickman deserves a huge THANK YOU for giving so much to the entertaiment industry. I await his next project with eager anticipation.
*~* Lady Krycek *~*
Ms. Krycek <LadyKrycek@aol.comfoo>
Denver, CO USA - 06/24/97 at 02:14:34
Hi all: Add my thanks for the interview tidbits. I feel the anticipation for TWG promo happenings becoming palpable in this room. Glad also to hear Moon and Sixpence getting into gear. Is it confirmed that he will be involved in that project?
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, WA USA - 06/24/97 at 00:25:34
Amy - I watched the Ruby Wax show tonight too. Sorry, I think the lady
is far too taken with herself. The cover story in our local
TV magazine said that the seemingly spontaneous film is in fact heavily
edited by Ms. Wax - to make sure that only the best profile shots
get in, I suspect. However, I do agree wholeheartedly about
the London background shots - love those.
Gail <grayment@istar.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/23/97 at 23:58:42
Just saw Ruby Wax's talk show tonight....anyone else? Can't decide if the interview with Lisa Kudrow was just an act or real....I loved the London back-drop regardless...and I'm always on the look-out. Thanks, Jean, for the mail:)
amy <JoJabez@prodigy.netfoo>
OK USA - 06/23/97 at 22:57:20
Thank you Debbie A. for the interview transcription and to..
I'm so sorry your name just slipped out of my head...for the
description of AR. I would have opted for "form over function"
too! I am going to order "The Barchester Chronicles" this
week--Debbye you got my salivary glands going! Hope your
meeting wasn't too long! Thanks again for the news all! Noel
Noel
USA - 06/23/97 at 21:43:07
Thanks, Laurie and Debbie for the interview information. Since you say he was wearing a royal blue shirt and black jacket, then that is from the video short that you should be able to find at www.michaelcollins.com (at least that is what I show for the site). It is a very short interview, but doesn't seem to have been included in the Lineham interview according to what you have reported. Thanks again!
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/23/97 at 21:38:41
Oops, sorry Laurie, didn't notice you'd already posted something about the Linehan interview.
Also, please forgive the couple of spelling mistakes in my last posting.
Debbie again <maalbers@uniserve.comfoo>
- 06/23/97 at 20:27:21
For Maxine, and any others who might be interested, here's a transcript of the AR / Brian Linehan interview (I taped it :-)
We're shown a shot from MC of Dev waving to the cheering crowd from the back of an open car. (voice over: (BL) "The actor is Alan Rickman, the character is Eamon de Valera.")
(Switch to studio) AR is seated with hands folded in lap, looking rather serious, very professional. He is wearing a royal blue shirt, top button undone, and a black jacket. His blond-grey hair is brushed back over his ears in the usual way, parted
just off centre, with some bangs falling down over his forehead. (OK, got a mental picture? He looked very gorgeous :-)
BL: "May I ask you, Alan, for those who are not as aware of Irish history as some (AR listening intently, nods), who is this man in terms of Ireland and Irish history?"
AR: "Um, whatever you think about his actions or intentions or his personality -- and there's a lot of contradictory opinions about that -- you'd have to say one of the most important figures in Irish history. He was president of Ireland at one time or another until he was 90 years of age, and blind. Uh, he was one of the founders of the original IRA, along with Michael Collins..."
BL: "When you sit in a room and you're allowed to watch film of this extraordinary human being, (AR nods, lips pursed, one thumb rubbing the other), what happens to you? What happens to your perceptions of what you thought you were playing from the printed page as opposed to watching this person?"
AR: "Well two things. You become aware of a kind of huge responsibility to someone who actually had a life, and uh, and a very, in many ways, brave life. (pause) Certainly at the early part, you know. Then once you become a professional polititian,
of course, in come the critics, and the chroniclers and the vultures to rip it apart, but you are very aware that you want to, um, be true to that life, and responsible."
That, sadly, was the extent of the interview with AR. Much to short! I'm hoping against hope that BL had the sense to interview AR about "The Winter Guest" directing experience, and that it will be aired in the fall around the time of the film's release, but I doubt it.
Debbie A. <maalbers@uniserve.comfoo>
Canada - 06/23/97 at 20:02:46
What eagle eyes you all have spotting that watch! I am very impressed, we do love our details, don't we. Ellen, when you said the "vest" was his own, I presume you mean "vest" in American English. In British English, a "vest" is an undershirt. :D A
press junket for "Winter Guest?" Oh please, let him do some talk shows here in the States!!
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/23/97 at 20:02:31
That very well might be his watch because in the fashion credits of the interview with Brittish GQ it lists the watch as his own..as well as a vest I think and shoes..It was a joke about the stalking..I mean I can't imagine living in the UK and not trying to meet AR.. I'd be joining the Stratford theater..
Ellen
USA - 06/23/97 at 19:18:58
Christopher Hampton says that Philip Glass has signed on to do the music for The Moon and Sixpence. This is going to be a big, shiny project! The interview can be read at: www.towerofbabel.com/film/towerofcritics/hampton_interview.shtml.
I wonder if principal photography has been postponed until AR has wrapped up his promotional junket for TWG (which he is no doubt looking forward to with great anticipation...sort of like extensive dental work)?
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/23/97 at 18:12:01
Boston's PBS station ran TMD this weekend, and I noticed this time through that Anthony Minghella's wife, Carolyn Choa, plays the tiny part of the translator leaving the office near the beginning of the movie. Her entire speaking part consists more or
less of "Goodnight, Nina. Goodnight, Sandy." Also, I could have sworn that I heard one of Mark's (i.e., Michael Maloney's) charges sing out, as she was alighting from the bus, "Okay, Mike!" Oops.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/23/97 at 15:55:03
Re: Linehan interview.
Laurie <lreid@cga.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/23/97 at 15:49:42
So many luxurious threads; to respond to them all would take pages. One that I could not resist is prompted by Lynne's posting of budget and time restraints. How about we bombard Ang Lee for the twelve-hour "director's cut?" I'd certainly buy a copy!! Just a thought... :-)
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/23/97 at 12:51:13
Bargain-Hunters alert-Barnes & Noble has the Emma Thompson S&S diary on sale for $4.98!! I spent the weekend reading through it. Also did anyone else notice that AR is wearing the same watch in DH and TMD ( at the very beginning when he's playing the cello during the credits) ? Wonder if it's his own and not a prop?
CBB
Long Island, N.Y. USA - 06/23/97 at 09:59:16
Jean: John Donne...Perfect for AR!! Joan: His sermon...I think he missed his calling!! Since I recently received the Chronicles I play it over and over again. I've begun to fast-forward to where Slope goes up to the pulpit. (His delivery aside...it's a good sermon, contentwise). Need I say, "LOVE IT!" (You hit the nail bang on the head with you description of us...cruising around looking for January Man and DIE Hard. When anyone makes a comment about it, I don't offer an alibi... I just 'fess up...I love Alan Rickman! "Whose he???" is still the inevitable response. Welcome new posters! Darn, gotta go to a meeting. TMD
Debbye
Washington, DC USA - 06/23/97 at 09:49:43
Yeah, Vicki, I think we're all a bit sorry at the end of DH
when Hans takes his spectacular fall. We know he can't be allowed
to get away with it, but we hope he will . . . sort of. Fave moment:
when the time lock shuts down and the vault opens. The look
on Hans' face is indescribable--pure, naked greed, of course,
but something else as well, a kind of wondering awe at the
treasures before him. It's his "softest" moment in the film,
one that underscores why AR's villains are hard to hate. Of
course, I can never listen to the finale of the 9th Symphony
in quite the same way again . . .
Mary Anne
USA - 06/23/97 at 09:31:28
Other Ellen: What stalking question?...I read a bit about stalking but didnt understand?...help! oh and btw Simon Caloow should have been Simon Callow (sorry Simes).
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/23/97 at 07:12:56
I love Mr. Rickman's voice. While I was recovering from eye
surgery, I learned to appreciate great voices. Fortunately,
I can now appreciate attractive faces too. He makes an
intriguing villain; you want him to get caught in the end…
and yet not!
Vicki Hopkins <vhopkins@hotmail.comfoo>
Fort Worth, TX USA - 06/23/97 at 01:42:31
You know, I had a thought, this entire planet is not what it apears to be. From the ground you could sware that clouds are corpreal and were you to be able to reach them you would definatly be somewhere. The soil under the canopy of the rain forest looks like the most fertile ground in the world, it is not, barely able to support one crop. The entire written history of the planet was erraced about 2,000 years ago to perpatrate a lie to suppress women. There's no way that all that history just got lost..."ooohh I'm sorry, I must of left it in my other pants.." So why should this most perfect thing, this creature I could have created in my own mind be any different. I have been watching from the sidelines a long time and this carousel has many brass rings to it. This is not a case where the big hero has many other closer real relationships with women..these, including this is the real..relationships...the center of it, the extent of it.. its maximation of intensity is played in two different rooms
in two different worlds at two different times in two different or three, or 12 different time zones! Elevating the fans to a much higher level of meaning than those belonging to someone who's every thought were otherwise happily engadged. Which makes it a good thing. Even then an open thing. For it is through that very door that I would enter. Pray that they don't have to run the tape of jack nicholason screaming.."You want the truth? You can't handle the truth.".. But it is someone's obligation not to tell everyone. No its not to tell the people who allready know that we know. Some confidence would be lost. Of course the more complex reality.. Corporate America thinks that we are so studpid..even in the rain forest..Normally I am so in favor of freedom of speach that I quit jobs because of it..however, maybe a ban is the right thing. But then it makes this whole thing a sham, on the other hand..it is.
its raining
Alex Sherry
Pueto Vello, Brazil - 06/23/97 at 00:30:39
Not you Maxine, the scottie owner.. Ellen, you havn'tanswered the stalking question...or is that a mirror of other questions?
Ellen
USA - 06/22/97 at 23:35:29
Careful sweetie, they'll be calling you a troll..
Ellen
USA - 06/22/97 at 23:24:05
Did anyone get to see those interviews of Alan and Liam on Canadian TV after all? Could you give us some information on it PLEASE--even to what AR was wearing and how he wore his hair. Those are not simply trivial concerns but help to picture what we
cannot get here. Thank you for whatever kind of synopsis you can give.
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/22/97 at 22:01:38
Jean in Leeds. Tried to E-mail you...sorry,everyone, for this personal entry. Jean, have a friend here in OK that is from Leeds and will be returning soon. I was just looking for one of the 'six degrees of separation.' one never knows..... I thought i edited the right bits from your address...came back to me anyway. Help.
amy <JoJabez@prodigy.netfoo>
Norman, OK USA - 06/22/97 at 19:50:16
re: Doggy. hmmm, tricky one but I'd have to have either the lovely Simon Caloow (great british stage actor and 'the funeral' in 4 weddings and a funeral) or the lovely Ian McKellen (nother British actor blokie of loadsa films (may I recommend seeing his Richard III (out on vid atm)...ok, how many brackets have I used...)))) that ought to round it up :-)
So, Sir Ian or Simes...why? coz it's be sure to have a good booming bark :-)...and be gay...but that's less important.
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/22/97 at 16:32:33
Re: items left out of S&S. We've discussed the missing "duel
scene" here before ; there are a few lines concerning that in
the S&S script: "We met by appointment . . . he to defend, and
I to punish his conduct. We both returned unwounded, so news
of it never got abroad" (or words to that effect, very similar
to the novel). Ang Lee's "less is more" technique works beautifully
in this film, but it's a pity those lines were cut. One of
the fun things about reading the script is spotting those line
that didn't make the final cut and then picturing how they
would have been delivered. Emilie Francois, for instance, had
more lines in her role of Margaret that would have been hilarious,
I think. There's one that made me laugh out loud: when she's
reprimanded on the ride home for hinting to Sir John and Mrs.
Jennings about Edward Ferrars, she has the line (concerning
Mrs. Jennings): "I like her . . . she TALKS about things. We
never talk about things." [Sigh of disgust from persecuted
youngest sister] Then a moment later, as if to show that she
has not been bested in the conversation: "I like Colonel Brandon,
too. He's been to places." Well, as to liking the Colonel . . .
how could anyone help it after "The air is full of spices"? 8-)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/22/97 at 15:31:58
Oh, "wellcome back' but don't answer my question. You know I was just thinking..this questbook..I'll bet you anything that the mail, the snail mail doesn't get read anymore..except if there's art in it..I'll bet you that this questbook is a quick way the asuage guilt..although that may be the hidden motive. It reminds me to watch my step all the same. Batman was film by the numbers..a venus film by numbers acording to the Bat-formula.. I hated seeing Uma deliver those inane lines..I hated it being targeted to hit the solar plexi of 11 year olds..not like Batman I which was aimed at 25 year olds.. Thta's not a nice film review of DHIII someone just posted..I liked it, I thought Jeremy was cute..well, I do think that. Not often or for long..I'm going
to write the perfect play. You guys will have to research and choose the director... I wasn't kidding about my idea.. Is that Venice California or Venice, Venice. ??? Be verwee quiet...I'm hunting for rabbits...
Ellen
USA - 06/22/97 at 15:03:41
Since there's nothing new, how about two older items?
Independent, 11.8.95, Pick of the Day - Fallen Angels. Alan Rickman - to some, the sexiest
man on earth - gets to play his now-trademark homme fatale opposite Laura Dern and Diane
Lane in Murder, Obliquely, a noirish thriller.
Independent - Cinema - from Quentin Curtis on Die Hard witha Vengeance
...The exhilaration of Die Hard I and II lay in their fusion of action and claustrophobia.
Sprawling special effects exploded in cramped settings. The regard for the unities of time,
space and action suggested a collaboration between Alfred Hitchcock and Aristotle....
Simon...turns out to be the brother of Hans Gruber, Alan Rickman's memorably ruthless and
sardonic villain from the first film... whereas Rickman used ideology as a front for theft,
Simon's motives are muddled. Alan Rickman's Gruber was one of the best and most
imitated blockbuster performances of the last decade. He honed a character out of pure
arrogance. Irons's Simon, like so many villains before him, is a pale shadow of Rickman.
He has a much lamer script to work with. But there is also a feeling of bad faith, as if he
were condescending to the role, or his heart was simply not in it. Where Rickman's class
converted into conceit, Irons's sophistication seems at sea, bordering on the effete. You are
likely to see more genuine malevolence in a pantomime.
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/22/97 at 12:14:16
We AR lovers at Pemberley would be thrilled beyond measure if those who post on this fan page would bombard the VirtView Bulletin Board at Pemberley with commentary related to TMD! Please feel free to do so! Also comments about S&S are welcome, too (access our Group Read to find threads about S&S, the book). As to the scenes left out in S&S concerning Colonel Brandon going to London and finding Beth, pregnant and destitute---someone over at Pemberley thought that had this scene been allowed to remain in the film, it might have added an interesting subplot: one might have thought that the child was Colonel Brandon's-----especially after his response when they were going on the picnic, his mournful attitude, etc. Someone watching the film for the first time, without benefit of having read the book might have thought this----if you think about all the scenes previous, then insert that particular scene in your mind where he finds Beth in London. It would have added another mysterious layer to the film---causing the filmgoer to question (for a little while, at least until Brandon's first scene with Elinor in London) whether Brandon was the man he seemed to be. But, of course, time and budget constraints did not allow for this to happen....unfortun
ately.
Lynne
MO USA - 06/22/97 at 02:28:00
I found the Lyman Chronicles at Olsson's Bookstore in Alexandria
--they have the whole series (with the third and fourth on
sale--why only those two I have no idea)there. They look
marvelous (best Fernando's Hideaway accent) indeed. Welcome
back Ellen--the Washington Post called Batman a "hero blandwich."
Should we have a book group discussion? It is hard to choose
between all the wonderful reading recommendations. Next to
AR, reading is my favorite thing. I do remember Elinor having
tea whilst looking out the window for Maryanne but don't remember
the lapse. I do agree with the theory of tea as a restorative--
I will be happy to be a case study Mari! The TMD discussion
is on 6/29 but I am not sure of the time. Those poor people
are not going to know what hit them when they are bombarded
by all the various interpretations and pithy observations that
are bandied about around here! TMD to all, Noel
Noel
Alexandria, Va USA - 06/22/97 at 01:25:15
Okay, just for fun, if you could have a dog with the personality of any actor..which actor would you choose for your dog? I didn't choose AR because I don't want my dog lying in hte sun all day dreaming and then expecting fancy dog food..I asked my 14
year old son that question and he said Cheech Marin, I said, oh great, a dog that will never be house broken, who sniffs the crotch of everyone it meets and hides under the bed when burglers come.. This is a serious question.. By the way I walked out of
the theater 20 minutes into Batman tonight, and I love film, I never walk out on movies, I can't remember the last movie I saw that was so bad that I bailed. My pick for a dog? Nicholas Cage. Well, I didn't exactally leave..leave the theater.. I saw Con
Air.. very good film. Lisa- I don't think that defination of troll is in the dictionary..because if that's the defination then I need to find a bridge..I like this one better..Troll: (n) a maladjusted internet wanderer, unable to communicate in kind with groups.Usually uninvited and unwellcome. Come on everyone...who'd be your doggy?
Ellen
Peachtree City, GA USA - 06/21/97 at 21:52:23
Joan... after years of watching the butchered Die Hard on TV (even tho I have my own copy, I still can't miss when he's on TV), I'm glad to hear that someone else is going to get the video! After Hans removes Takagi from the party, he takes him in the
elevator (and humms a bit) up to his office and sees a model of Takagi's company's empire/building... and speaks that great line. There is much more to that scene and he is just wonderfully witty and gorgeous, so get the video asap and enjoy!
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/21/97 at 20:50:36
Thanks Eva for the ab fab news re Winter Guest at Venice. Carla,
the responsibility falls on you. No flights, just a train trip, and
you are appointed as our exclusive correspondent. By the way, what's
happened to our Saturday afternoon (Sunday morn for me) chats.
Are they on the old irc channel or Karina's new chat line. Whenever
I go to either spot, I find I'm on my lonesome. My self esteem is
taking a battering. Can any of the Pemberley residents tell me what time
the TMD discussion on the 26th (I think) happens?
Stephanie <fewings@satech.net.aufoo>
Adelaide, SA Australia - 06/21/97 at 20:07:23
At last some background information about the best British actor ever! A thousandfold thanks to the creators of this page (where would we be without Internet)! And to Alan: thank you for your excellent work - do keep it up for some devoted fans in The
Netherlands who follow your every move breathlessly!
Andrea M.H. de Palm <Andrea.De.Palm@net.HCC.nlfoo>
The Hague, The Netherlands - 06/21/97 at 19:04:52
Re the cups of tea: we've been cheated! The screenplay has "Brandon runs up the hillside
as though the devil were at his heels." as a scene between the Mr Palmer kind speech and
the Mrs Palmer cuppa. It was filmed, too, as in the diaries Emma says "Alan arrived and had
to run up a very steep hill in thick tweeds and thermals. Then he had to stand in rain which
was blinding today." So it's been edited out, and the passage of time marked only by cups of
tea.
Wouldn't you love to read a Winter Guest screenplay and diary? I would!!
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/21/97 at 16:27:07
Saw the rest of DH last night. My word, how much fake blood did they use in that movie? Since I saw the edited version (will now go searching for the tape to buy) can someone please tell me when that wonderful line "When Alexander saw ...." comes in?
I thought AR looked wonderful in that suit! I hate to resort to cliches, but he does make a charming villian. I loved Jean's suggestion that he play John Donne. He would be a wonderful preacher; I love his 'sermon' in Barchester Chronicles. This list comes up with suggestions for such great roles for him, wish he would do some of them! Plus another book to add to the growing list of things to read this summer.
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/21/97 at 11:56:23
When I read Sense and Sensibility first I was convinced that the sensible Colonel would get
over his infatuation with the younger sister and fall instead for the much more enduring
charms of Elinor. This sub-plot is quite important in the book, and I should of course have
realised that Brandon had fallen in love irrevocably with Marianne and would remain faithful.
Poor Edward, though, does think the worst, especially when Elinor tells him about Brandon's
gift of the living. When she says, "He is the kindest and best of men," Edward is convinced
she loves Brandon, as does Mrs Jennings for so long. Even in the screenplay this
misunderstanding is mentioned, notably in the cut scene at the very end before the wedding.
So why did Ang Lee not make anything of this aspect?
I had a look at the thing at the wedding. It isn't a maypole. Looks revolting! If it's a cake
count me out!! Actually I think it is, as in the screenplay "the door opens and Betsy comes
out holding the bridal cake aloft". She's been replaced by a fiddler but the other thing
certainly is aloft.
Has anyone read Hugh Walpole's Rogue Herries? It's set in the Lake District of England in
the 1700s - he meets Bonnie Prince Charlie - sells his mistress - fights a duel and gets
terribly scarred - rejects his family and their great houses to live in isolation in a lonely valley
- consorts with pedlars, gypsies and witches - falls in love with a much younger woman who
has no interest in him - he marries her and at last she comes to love him too. AR would be
great as Francis, I reckon. I can also see him as John Donne, the poet and cleric, who wrote
such marvellous prose as well as poetry (very erotic, some of it). Apart from the famous bit
about "No man is an island" he wrote some terrific sermons. I'd love to hear AR deliver them.
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/21/97 at 05:51:31
I am so happy to find this web page that I feel weak in the joints..much like I do when I watch Alan Rickman portray Colonel Brandon in "Sense and Sensibility". Thank you so much for creating this beautiful web page. I am forever indebted.
Susanne Martinez <Soosipoo25@aol.comfoo>
Mcallen, Tx USA - 06/21/97 at 02:43:13
I thought that I was the only "twit" who would watch "Die Hard" on USA when I already own the movie! Glad to hear that I'm not alone in my obsession!
Michelle <MBushmire@aol.comfoo>
Pittsburgh, PA USA - 06/21/97 at 00:57:28
Thank you all for being here tonight. I just got through a very long day of committee markup and thought I'd check in before I left work. After reading everyone's comments and getting the great news about the Venice Film Festival (Thanks, Eva - where
do you get this stuff?) I feel all is right with the world again. Sweet dreams, everyone.
BC
Washington, DC USA - 06/20/97 at 20:35:20
Re: tea and tea again. I have to say what I held back from when the conversation turned to how exhausted Brandon looked when he carried MA into the house. Of course Will lifted her as if she were light as a feather but he had a horse handy to carry her home. Will's estate is 4-5 miles away from Cleveland. Presumably Brandon has carried her from the top of the hill overlooking Combe Magna. That's a walk of at least a mile or two, of course he's exhausted. The screenplay call for this also "the Colonel enters with Marianne. He is exhausted and soaked. Marianne is dumb with cold and fatigue." This would allow for at least two cups of tea. Have to admit I thought it was an editing oops at first too.
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, Wa USA - 06/20/97 at 18:25:27
Just got home from the library, where I took out 'Bob Roberts'and a D. Dunnett book, although not in the Lymond series. Just had to share this quote from The New Yorker, "[The Disorderly Knights has] a lively, busy narrative that features an energentic hero in whom we find Ivanhoe's temperate nationalism, D'Artagnan's fine swordsmanship, and James Bond's unchivalrous way with women." Is this series tailor-made for AR or what!!!! Someone grab his agent's ear and someone else get busy on a screenplay!! I cannot WAIT to read this series!!
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/20/97 at 16:39:07
Sarah: The tea bit was confusing to me at first, too. Seemed Elinor was being handed a second cup before she could have finished the first. But I think perhaps it's meant to convey the passage of time--they've been worrying and watching long enough to
be into the second cup.
Elizabeth
Fairfax, VA USA - 06/20/97 at 16:28:43
Well, even though it wasn't me who said it, welcome all males! Please don't be lurkers, speak up! Did not see all of DH last night, but will watch the tape this weekend. From the hour or so that I did see, I know why I haven't watched this movie before - too much violence. Thanks for the tip on Caldor, I'll check it out and buy the video $9.99!!! how can I miss! BTW, this probably belongs on the fantasy page, but I can see all these intelligent women, who normally shun violent/action movies, who are well versed in classical literature, wandering around discount stores scouting out copies of "Die Hard." I'll pretend I'm buying it for my nephew :D Thanks also for the tip about the Lymond [sp?] Chronicles, sounds like a great summer of reading ahead. I appreciate ALL the tips I've picked up from this list about books to read. I would love to see AR in a mystery series on PBS. Any suggestions? Dorothy Simpson's Luke Thanet series has never been done, that I know of, and since Insp. Thanet's wife's name is "Joan"
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/20/97 at 15:03:15
Sarah: As a frequent pond-jumper, all I can say about tea is that it's ubiquitous. If a situation calls for comfort of any kind--your cat's died, your aunt's prognosis is poor, your best friend lost your earrings, you've broken off with your fella, the bookstore was out of the latest Robert Ludlam--tea. It's the kind gesture, more than any medicinal effects the tea might have. But there have times when someone offering sustenance when body or spirit was low has been remarkably restorative. Tea is
also what you offer when you have nothing else to offer--when there's nothing to be done. (There have been times when I've wanted to scream "No more bloody tea! Thanks!") It would probably make a lovely undergrad thesis: tea as a metaphor.
Mari
USA - 06/20/97 at 14:44:02
Oops, sorry ; that was Kate who made the remark about "estrogenpoisoning." Hi, Kate! 8-)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/20/97 at 14:06:11
Noel M: "A cross between the Sheriff and Valmont, who evolves
into Col. Brandon"?!?!?! What on EARTH are you trying to do
to me?! You can bet I'll be checking this out . . . and I'll
have plenty of extra time, since I sure won't be getting any
sleep. BTW, I seem to remember this being posted here already,
but for any who might have missed it the first time, grab your
copy of *For Women First* mag while it's still at the grocery
checkout counter. Fun article on romantic men of the past--
wonderful picture of AR in the wedding uniform. And all you
male visitors out there, I'm with Joan: we need your input!
C'mon, don't be shy . . .
Mary Anne
USA - 06/20/97 at 14:04:00
I have got a question about S&S. Why do both Mr. and Mrs. Palmer give Elinor a cup of tea while they are waiting for Col. Brandon to find Marianne? This has been puzzling me for some strange reason.
Sarah <MadeleineY@aol.comfoo>
OH USA - 06/20/97 at 13:41:50
Gail and Anne: I just got a book catalog that features the
Lymond Chronicles which have been out of print after more than
a decade. "In 'The Game of Kings', we meet Francis Crawford,
a scapegrace nobleman of elastic morals and dangerous talents
whose tongue is as sharp as his rapier. When he is accused of
treason, he starts a band of outlaws to baffle and thwart his
enemies. Next, in 'Queen's Play' we see the result of that
effort: Francis is now a respected Scottish diplomat who is
sent to France to protect a very young, very vulnerable Mary
Stuart. He'll need all of his wily intelligence to keep her
safe!" The remaining 4 titles will be added soon. Francis
sounds like a cross between the Sheriff and Valmont who
evolves into Col. Brandon (watch out Mary Anne!) Sounds
like great stuff! The catalog is called Manderly and has
a homepage. It is mostly romance genres but has Jane Austen
and other authors (Emma T.'s screenplay too!) For all who
requested the copy of the TMD photo--"it's in the mail"--at
long last! Many apologies for the delay.
Noel Moyer <nmm@episcopalhighschool.orgfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/20/97 at 13:40:14
Hi Everybody. I suppose that most of us are still on the high that the Die Hard fix provided last night. I think one of my favorite moments in the movie is when Joe Takagi (sp?) introduces himself (as if Hans wouldn't know exactly what he looked like), Hans gives a very brief smile and says "pleased to meet you." That smile, gone almost before it begins, makes me melt. And , yes, the "nice suit" bit in the elevator DID get cut.... Notice how they never cut out any of the running around with guns stuff that goes on interminably???
Dan, we love having male company. I hope that we don't subject you to estrogen poisoning.
Anne, I ordered the first two Lymond Chronicle books from the Crown in Old Town the moment that I finished your posting (they're holding them for me). Thanks for the heads up. I am a tremendous fan of Ellis Peters and when I last went to England, I left my deadbeat boyfriend in a pub while I took a walking tour of Shrewesbury "in the steps of Brother Cadfael." I'd have had more fun, I think, if I had left the deadbeat boyfriend on this side of the pond. Oh well, live and learn...
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/20/97 at 12:57:03
Eva: Thanks. What is the time frame for the Venice Festival? Can't wait for the wonderful reception I'm sure this film will receive. Would sure love to attend, was lucky enough to visit Venice in 1985 and loved it!
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, WA USA - 06/20/97 at 12:21:01
Karina! oops! Never mind I found it. Dont know what I was
doing. Boy I feel like a schmuck!
Nicole
Tampa, FL USA - 06/20/97 at 12:06:07
Hi Karina! I need some help. Yesterday, I was looking
through the photo gallery,and noticed an option to view
a trailer or "preview" ,if you will, for "An awfully big
adventure". Naturally, I proceeded to try it out.
Well, I couldn't connect with it, so I figured I'd try again
later. When I went back for it, it wasn't even there.
I dont think I'm imagining anything, so can you help?
Thanks so much. By the way, I like that 2nd guestbook!
Take care
Nicole
Tampa, FL USA - 06/20/97 at 12:00:13
Eva, where did you come across the reference to TWG's premiere at the Venice Film Festival? I'm a history student and live for footnotes...I can't help myself.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/20/97 at 11:17:49
Regarding the Venice Film Fest.; didn't Michael Collins do
quite well there? I remember Liam Neeson became ill there.
I think Michael Collins would have been a much more interesting
and deeper movie if Neil Jordan had focused on the relationships
between Michael, Harry and Dev. de Valera's character was
not very well developed (thank God they had AR's talents to
flesh out the role.) In the diary of the movie I had to laugh
at Neil Jordan's comment that AR accepted the role without
making a fuss...well why should he? It was a small part and
he took a pay cut to do it! I loved it when Dev made an
impression of the jail key in the candle after Mass. And of
course the escape scene was priceless! Neil Jordan said AR
looked like an angular spinster! I wonder if AR wanted the
role because of his Irish/Welsh background. Have a great
weekend all. I am off to float in the Pond. TMD, Noel
Noel
USA - 06/20/97 at 10:09:56
Great news Eva! Let's hope there is lots of coverage and that
the film garners awards and lots of attention!!!!
Noel
USA - 06/20/97 at 09:48:04
Yes, DH gets butchered on tv but have to get our "fix" somehow!
8-) A few comments on acting technique, things that occurred
while I was watching last night. 1) Along with having a beautiful
voice in general, AR is one of the few actors who doesn't sound
ludicrous adopting an accent. (I, too, love the "hostage imitation"
scene and his prompt switch to an American accent--one of them,
anyway. I'd love to hear him try Southern!) 2) Very good--nay,
"exceptional"--control of body language and movement. Watch
his chill, amused detachment in DH, which is what make the few
occasions when Hans loses his temper so intimidating. In the
"exceptional thief" moment, he reminds me of an attacking spider
when he pounces on poor Holly. Brrr. But his control of movement
is amazing. I have a friend who has suggested he's unusually aware
of how to present himself visually because he spent some time
as an artist before taking up acting. Interesting theory. Comments?
And Joan--it was you, wasn't it, seeing DH for the first time?--
hope you enjoyed the evil Hans (so to speak), even in drastically
cut form.
Mary Anne
USA - 06/20/97 at 09:27:15
NEWSBREAKING Winter Guest will be presented at the prestigious Venice Film Festival
Eva
Copenhagen, Denmark - 06/20/97 at 02:57:11
Anne of Alexandria - Francis Lymond has been as dear to my heart
these thirty years as AR has been for some ten. I am delighted
to hear that the series is being reissued for a new generation!
Mary Anne - add them to your reading list! I have not been able
to become so attached to Dunnett's current anti-hero Niccolo.
However, I don't see AR in the Lymond role. One of the joys
of living up here in Canada is the large amount of British
TV programming that gets picked up by the smaller networks. We
recently enjoyed a good thriller, The Ice House, and I think
I would nominate Daniel Craig, who did good work both in that
and Our Friends in the North, another BBC series, for the role.
Gail <grayment@istar.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/20/97 at 00:26:32
BC---No, I wasn't offended at all, please don't think that, since I understand that this is a website devoted to the admiration and adoration of Mr. Rickman and I include myself in that description, too! I just hope I didn't come across as over-intellectulizing to everyone about Jane Austen. Many people read her literature for pure enjoyment---others wish to dissect and analyze and critique her work--and that is fine, too. She is a great writer and deservedly so----I just don't anyone to believe that Pemberley it is pro--CF and anti--everybody else. It isn't----but there are just more people over at Pemberley willing to discuss CF and his role in Pride and Prejudice than there are those wanting to talk about S&S and AR. However, there is also a large contigent of Jeremy Northam fans (they have their own site over there) and admirers of the Emma adaptation starring Gwyneth Paltrow and JN. Those of us who love S&S and AR have vainly attempted to enlist enough interest for our own bulletin board at Pemberley---but the interest doesn't seem to be there. But, to be fair, we AR fans do have this wonderful place of Karina's. I, for one, am glad it exists!
Lynne
MO USA - 06/19/97 at 23:35:53
Other Ellen..you are in England and I here..that's defination enough for me! How ever do you keep from "stalking"..?? I think I would find myself surrounded by Bobbies.. not a wholly unwelcomed thought..hmm. No one should watch Die hard on television. I keep meaning to make my friend Elke watch it with me so she can translate the German for me.. speaking of translations, did you all get that bit in French in TMD when at the translation office Nina's boss inturupts his French client to talk to Nina and he says in French.. "No one has been this rude to me since I left France!"..I think we should pool our funds.. get a script for a play with incest in it and hire a "designer director" and lure AR into a production!..We could do it at The Bearsville the
ater in Woodstock NY (I know the owner) I could arrange accomedations for everyone, we could throw a cast party.. this could happen..
Ellen Sherman <writersherman@mindspring.comfoo>
Peachtree City, GA USA - 06/19/97 at 23:11:13
I have enjoyed your discussions on the William Monk character and books by Anne Perry. I agree it might be a great part for Mr, Rickman, as long as he doesn't get "trapped" in it like Jeremy Brett was with Sherlock Holmes.
I would also like to recommend for your consideration a series of books by Dorothy Dunnett, "The Lymond Chronicles", a six book chronicle of the life and adventures of a character, which, except for being described as 'blue-eyed' is an excellent description for Mr Rickman.Tall, lithe, lean, clever, witty.... well you get the idea.
They have just been re-released, the first two, this past May, the next two in July and the last two will be out in September. The first one is entitled "The Game of Kings" and is filled with wonderful characters. The anti-hero, (for Lymond IS an anti-hero to his enemies,) is Francis Crawford of Lymond,a wondrously complex character. Let me knoe what you think once you have had a chance to read some of this book. Anne
Anne <Ahard73977@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/19/97 at 22:57:51
Greetings! I am typing this whilst keeping an eye peeled
for Ar on t.v. (it's not like I can't go out and rent the
thing!) I don't want to miss one of my favorite scenes--
the one when AR impersonates a hostage. I love his sheepish
little grin! But I digress. I was perusing the foreign mags.
at Borders tonight and came across a (mere) mention of AR's
name. It was a list of the most powerful stars. Emma T. was
down from 3 to 13. She apparently choose to do The Winter Guest
with "fellow thesp. Alan Rickman" and passed on some roles that
went to Kristen Scott-Thomas. No word about release dates etc.
more's the pity. Back to our favorite villain! TMD, Noel
Noel
USA - 06/19/97 at 21:57:34
Dear Rickmaniac friends... to those of you who have only seen Die Hard on USA channel, please do yourselves a great favor as soon as possible and rent or buy the video. They keep cutting more parts of Alan's scenes out to fit more commercials in; and
you will be wonderfully surprised if you see the original how many more fantastic shots of AR there are in the film! Fie USA channel!!!!
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/19/97 at 21:51:26
Jean: It seems to me The Drooling Pond would be the proper place to send that article. I think there are many CH fans there. It is part of the Republic of Pemberley. www.pemberley.com
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, WA USA - 06/19/97 at 21:50:03
I had always wondered how that little 'cake' could possibly feed
all those people. :)
Teri
Gettysburg, Pa USA - 06/19/97 at 21:17:30
Perhaps the site might also help my grammer. Sorry.
BC
Washington, DC USA - 06/19/97 at 20:09:39
Lynne -- I've enjoyed your comments regarding the Pemberley site. I hope my earlier posting did not offend you or anyone there -- I really like the site very much. What I was actually trying to convey is my embarrassment that my obsession with AR see
ms to have clouded my ability to appreciate Austen (or other actors) fully. Lurking about your site made me realize how narrow my interest has been. Please continue your efforts to educate me!
BC
Washington, DC USA - 06/19/97 at 20:08:06
The Independent Magazine of Saturday 7 June 1997 had an article on Ciaran Hinds. Can
anyone suggest a site that would like this? I will email it to anyone who is interested.
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/19/97 at 19:36:56
CBB-Thanks for the warning. Now, hopefully, I will be prepared tonight when DH is on.
Sarah <MadeleineY@aol.comfoo>
USA - 06/19/97 at 18:52:22
Lynne: Welcome! Thank you for your imput re the Pemberley fiction. I have REALLY enjoyed The Uninvited and await each additional chapter anxiously. Thank you for sharing your talent.
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, WA USA - 06/19/97 at 18:32:48
WOW. I just decided to see what I could find about one of the greatest actors around. You all have done a great job on this web page. I think that I'll be visiting it quite a bit in the future.
Dan Holmes <Dholmesc@fe.netfoo>
Kamloops, b.c. Canada - 06/19/97 at 17:04:44
Eva--you are quite right about the fiction at Pemberley: however, none of us who submit there claims to be able to write with the genius of Austen. I have not read all the stories, so therefore I really shouldn't comment on the issue of whether of not JA's style is kept intact, but I think the purpose of the Writer's Guild is to promote the love of Jane Austen. I think the writers work hard to entertain rather than emulate JA's work. And many of the writers do try to keep true to character as much
as possible. I also think some of the reason the fiction has such a romantic/erotic tone is that Jane Austen was raised on one culture---we in another, one that allows for the expression of sexual feelings. And Jane Austen's books do not detail much
in this area---and I am glad she did not, really. I think her books were not really meant to be read primarily as romances----many levels of meaning (like all good lit) are present in her novels. That is what I enjoy, more than anything. Since you enjoy Jane Austen so much, your input would be welcome at Pemberley I am sure. As for the character of Colonel Brandon in the film: when I did my first reading of S&S some years ago, I had problems with his character. Also with the fact that the men all disappear, leaving eveyrone guessing. To be honest, I did not find either character appealing (this is the book, not the film let me please emphasize)----and because of this and some other problems, S&S is not considered JA's best novel---and many of the pariticipants at Pemberley rank it very low on the likability scale. This is completely apart from the film adaptation, which I think most of them like very much. But it just isn't her greatest work----the film made it more interesting, to be sure---and I
love AR's protrayal, in fact the acting of everyone was just excellent. I do not really agree with the opinionsabout the book---I like S&S---and I think the second chapter is as funny as anything she wrote later (this is the chapter in which Fanny Dashwood tries to decrease the allowances of the Dashwood daughters)---and it is very well written, of course--beautiful language, etc. So it ranks high on my list. I am currently reading "Eliza's Daughter" by Joan Aiken---and the portrayal of Colonel Brandon in that book is not very appealing. I will have to take a look at the book mentioned by Mary Anne--"The Third Daughter." Thanks for the information, Mary Anne! (What a nice name you have, too!)
Lynne
MO USA - 06/19/97 at 13:40:53
Karina, you are the ne plus ultra of Webmistresses. Having finally had time to surf a bit, I can say with some authority that you have one of the finest web pages out there...and I say that with no bias whatsoever as to content. Really. Truly, even.
Thanks for all your work. I am now off for 10 days, sans laptop, to get reacquainted with my husband. (We don't see much of one another except on occasional weekends when we're working.) Y'all be well, be safe.
Mari
USA - 06/19/97 at 12:56:33
"riefly" should be "briefly," sorry!
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/19/97 at 12:10:32
One of my favorite AR bits in S&S is a "throwaway" visual. As he approaches the cottage (I think after Marianne has hurt her ankle), he playfully swipes at one of the dogs and riefly snaps to attention, saluting at Margaret. It's very brief, but make
s the Colonel look very likeable.
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/19/97 at 12:09:21
Heads up to those with access to British newspapers, especially that paragon of journalism, the Daily Express. Now that the AR unauthorized bio has recently been released in paperback, a review or two may appear in the press. Since the Daily
Express (for which Paton is theatre critic, I gather) did a biggish promotion of the book on its initial publication, they may well want to wring more publicity out of the new paperback.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/19/97 at 11:17:36
Rickmaniacs alert, When USA broadcasts Die Hard it is drastically cut! Most of AR's best scenes are replaced with commercials! The elevator "nice suit" and the "when Alexander saw the breath of his empire" scenes are left out!How could they !!! I finally bought a copy of DH on sale at Caldor for $9.99 ,it's well worth it! Great page Karina,for a long time I thought I was the only AR fan out there.
CBB
L.I., N.Y. USA - 06/19/97 at 10:02:36
First things first: thank you, Noel, and Ellen S., welcome
back! A huge "virtual" hug to you, dear, and we're all so glad
you're better now. The "revisionist history" debate on S&S is
fascinating. Something all of you might want to have a look
at: Julia Barrett's *The Third Sister*, which is about Margaret
Dashwood and how she turns out. A light read, but a very entertaining
one. It's funny though, because Barrett succumbs as well to
the phenomenon of making the Colonel much more dashing than
he appears in the original ; there are many passages to the
effect of how different he is now that Marianne is his wife--
gives up wearing the flannel waistcoats, etc. Seems that AR
has given the definitive interpretation of the part and ruined
it for any other actor who might ever attempt it--not likely! 8-)
But Emma Thompson's screenplay, Ang Lee's gifted direction,
and Alan Rickman's intelligent and sensitive take on the part
have made a big difference in how many Austen devotees read
the character.
Mary Anne
USA - 06/19/97 at 09:33:21
There seems to be two Ellens on here...well, we are slowly but surely taking over ther world.
Other Ellen: Do you want me to change the name I put down seeing as you were here before me (and everyone else loves you more *sniff*)?
I will if you like.
Ellen
PS Better mention AR hadnt I...well he's one of the best but we knew that already.
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/19/97 at 09:02:51
More news from the U. K.: The Economist 14-VI-97 theater
critic said "The seats are hard, sawdust fills the air and
the place reeks of fresh paint. Do not be deterred. London's new
Globe Theater...provides a wonderful night out. The authenticity of its
'Henry V', with female roles taken by men, is exciting the
critics. But the alternative attraction, a sensual and
physical 'The Winter's Tale', ought not be overlooked. Nicholas
LePrevost witty Autolycus is by itself worth the price of a
ticket".
Thanks to Karina for her wonderful work!
Emma
USA - 06/19/97 at 09:00:51
Dear Lynne. Thank you very much for your comments. I enjoy the fan fiction very much, but I must admit that much of the fiction fails to get the specific tone of Jane Austen right and end up more romantic and erotic, that what JA writes herself. My compliment is however that the fan fiction writers succeed better than some of the published writers like Emma Tennant whose Elinor & Marianne is even more awfull than her sequels to P&P. Regarding my point on S&S the morale of the story is to receive a balance between Sense and Sensibility. Kate Winslet said in an interview that Marianne is more in love with the caracter of the romantic lover than specificlly with Villoughby. He just happens to be in the right place at the right time. I think this is a correct analysis, because Villoughbys caracter is not what Marianne desires, he just go along and play the part of her ideal. Once the spell is broken villoughby will never regain his reign over Marianne, nor do I think Marianne will understand his fascination if she should meet him at a later stage. The brilliant writing of Jane Austen clearly state what Villoughby will become in a few years. If you read JAs Lady Susan, there is a caracter named Mainvaring that is excactly what Villoughby will become. I read
Austen intensely at university and did not understand the conclusion of S&S before seing one brilliant actor interpreting the caracter, which had been an enigma to all Austen scholars for 200 years. However, Marianne is the key person in the novel, to have her fall flat for Villoughby once more is not appriating the caracter in full. To me it would be interesting to mix the caracters a bit. How would Henry Crawford suceed with Marianne or Elizabeth? I always imagiended that Col. Fitzwilliam would end up married to Mary Crawford (he would have to marry money, she will marry a younger son). Would that not be interesting subjects to work on?
Eva
Copenhagen, Denmark - 06/19/97 at 08:14:06
Hmm, I thought it was a May Pole rather than a cake that was being carried at the end of S&S. Now that I've finished Emma T's Diary, I'll have to watch S&S again. Looks like this will be an AR film festival weekend. Taping DH tonight, AABA arrived yesterday, and now homework, rewatching S&S.
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/19/97 at 08:04:39
Regarding the sequels to S&S at Pemberely---the posters and participants at Pemberley are by and large very enthusiatic Colin Firth fans. Just as we adore AR and his role in S&S---they are just as much in love with CF"s portrayal of Darcy. Surely, we
can appreciate such emotion! Also, Pemberley exists primarily to discuss the works of Jane Austen---although they have a section where other films (including TMD starring AR) and books (such as Jane Eyre) are discussed. When we discuss Jane Austen at
Pemberley, it is understood that one must read the books---and many citizens of Pemberley also read criticisms of her work. As fine as the film adaptation of S&S is--it does neglect certain areas. Even Emma Thompson admitted leaving out a rather pivotal scene between Einor and Willoughby while Marianne is sick in order to emphasize the love story between Marianne and Brandon. In essence, Emma Thompson filled in many gaps about the character of Colonel Brandon in her screenplay since the character in the book is not very well defined. Also (and I may really hear about this--but so be it): some literary critics of the book seem to believe that Marianne "settled" for Colonel Brandon---and if you cannot see this as a possibility, read the last 4-5 paragraphs in S&S. We had a very long discussion in the Austen chat room about this one evening----some people thought Jane Austen was being ironic in her description of the Marianne/Brandon alliance--but others thought not. In fact, the book does seem to state that her love for Brandon came after her marriage to him----and that how could she not marry him when all her relatives/friends wanted her to! So when we decided to write our sequels, those of us who decided to write about the events following the marriage have capitlized on the the idea that Marianne may have married for connvenience in order to tease our readers a bit: did she really love him? Does Willoughby still have her heart? We are following the book after all---and not so much the film.
But--anyone who wishes to do otherwise is more than welcome to access the FanFiction portion of Pemberley and submit a story more to their liking. We are very much outnumbered by writers at Pemberley submitting stories related to Pride and Prejudice---
and any new viewpoints are more than welcome. So if the stories at Pemberley are making you upset---write your own! Part of what makes AR's portrayal of Colonel Brandon so stimulating is the fact that he is tortured! If his conquest had been assured from the start----there would not been much of a movie----or book for that matter. And I very much agree---why would Marianne want Wil when she could have Colonel Brandon as played by AR? But when one is storytelling---there has to be a crisis of some sort, a conflict between two entities---or else the piece of writing is a nothing but a piece of boredom. By the way, I am the author of "The Uninvited" over at Pemberley and I challenge anyone to read what I have written, critique it to death if you like-
--but I will still write it in such a way that excites, saddens and yes, even makes a reader angry. And if everyone is upset with Never Love by Halves---well, you will also be upset with my story, too---because there will be some very disturbing scenes I
will be writing---but, believe me, dear Colonel Brandon can handle any difficulty---he is a soldier, remember! I will not allow him to experience another tragedy because the book indicates they lived happily ever after---but not without a few twists and
turns along the way!
Well, now that I have written a post long enough to be called a book in its own right---I will sign off and give space to another Rickman fan.
Lynne
MO USA - 06/19/97 at 03:14:20
Just saw Sense and Sensibility. It has been a long time since any actor made me cry, but such a fantastic job of acting was done, I really boo-hoo'd.
In addition, when Alan walked out of the church with his beloved, I jumped up out of my chair and yelled...YES!!!!!!!!!!
My daughter (32) was shocked. Great job...what a hunk!
I hope Alan reads this and knows that after many years of drought, this 55 year old has just downloaded a pinup picture to put by her desk at work.
(Hugh eat your heart out!)
Carol J Culp <mumsy@concentric.netfoo>
Escondido, Ca USA - 06/19/97 at 01:36:30
Thank you Karina, thank you everyone for being such a wonderful group of people and working this all out to a win/win solution. I will enjoy both sites. Why can't the rest of the world be as rational and polite as we?
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, WA USA - 06/18/97 at 23:53:01
My what a busy evening it has been on/in the guestbook. I
have been reading about The Globe as well and think it has
great potential to be visited by some of "the greats". I
just wanted to say to Mary Anne that I think you contribute
much to the guestbook and I love your "flights of fancy"!
I didn't/don't want to sound critical--what is in our minds
doesn't always translate properly (or the way we think it) in
the virtual mode! I will definitely check out your opera links.
Debbye--I liked what you said about the evolution of the guest
book being like a family. It is pretty amusing how we pounce
upon any morsel of news concerning AR! However this is what
sets us apart I guess!! TMD and sweet dreams, Noel
noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/18/97 at 23:30:58
To Lisa: Re the S&S ending. I've always thought it was a cake, and never even considered it being anything else, if that's any help. To Eva: thanks for the info on the readings, keep us posted.
Pam <Bagdzinski@worldnet.att.netfoo>
NJ USA - 06/18/97 at 22:35:48
You can get to that page with the Alan Rickman TV
appearances by going to:
http://www.tv-now.com/stars/index.html
and then searching for his name.
Chris <ckwible@ptd.netfoo>
NJ USA - 06/18/97 at 20:54:50
Hi..well after making a complete ass out of myself at the party..and don't say I didn't because I did. I lost the e mail and the internet completely..the e mail is still messed up and requires one more call to mindspring. Thank you for your kind words.. I was really going thru a bad time. Then Max sent me Mesmer and the interviews.. I want to appoligize to all of you for being such a downer there. I'll get the e mail back and then hopefully my son will not fool with the system controls or load suspicious MTV software from the internet on here anymore! Real life is so messy! I'm okay now. Ellen
Ellen <writersherman.comfoo>
USA - 06/18/97 at 20:48:14
To Robyn in Miami: I find I cannot get to that website that you listed... would you please do all of us a great favor and keep us informed of whatever you find out about our favorite that they may list until the site is easier to be reached? Thank you very much!
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/18/97 at 20:13:47
For the information of her Rickmaniac friends, Ellen has not been able to get online for days due to a problem with her computer. I told her I'd let you know.
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/18/97 at 20:04:25
Do not buy the video Shock! Shock! Shock! from videoflicks. It is not Alan Rickman from England in the film, it is Allen Rickman from New York!
Kari Guy <Kari@adlgtv.comfoo>
Palo Alto, CA USA - 06/18/97 at 18:25:47
oops, it was Mary Ann...please forgive me, I apologize muchly.
Sorry
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/18/97 at 18:25:02
RE: Shakespeare's Globe.
I totally agree with..er..damn, I shouldve checked the name before I started really...Katy possibly about going to the Globe if youre in London soon.
It's a great place (haveing been there before it was officially opened to see 'The Two Gentlemen of Verona'.) However (and there is one I'm afraid) unfortunatly as yet the UK's best Shakespeare is not being performed in there
If you want a good and highly origional evening out then the Globe is the place but if you wanna see the really great productions I would not go there (The RNT (which incidently is just along the Thames from the Globe) or the RSC (although this season has
been disappointing) are (in my humble and over-use-of-brakets opinion) the best places to see the best plays
However, I love the Globe and cannot go to Blackfriars station without taking a walk along the platform and looking out over the river and looking at it (I would highly recommend doing that...). So, anyway, that's my opinion...
and if you do come to England lemme know!
Bye now...
Ellen
St Albans, England - 06/18/97 at 18:06:57
Karina: In the words of Shakespeare, "For this relief much
thanks." I'll post this here only because most people it applies
to will still be looking at this page rather than the "Fictions"
page, as of yet. Some of you have mentioned trips to the UK
in the near future: you might want to check out the new Globe
Theatre, which has been rebuilt less than 400 yards from the
one of Shakespeare's day. Its aim is to present Shakespeare (and
others of the period, Marlowe et al) as he would have been
presented then, rowdy groundlings and all. Sounds fascinating.
Sounds like something to watch in case AR puts in an appearance
in a production ; if anyone could captivate and silence a noisy
gaggle of groundlings, he's the man. For more info, check out
www.rdg.ac.uk/AcaDepts/In/Globe/Globe.html or put "Shakespeare's
Globe" in the search engine of your choice and check the hits.
Hope this might be of interest. Watch the posts on upcoming
productions and see if a cast list is available! And those of
you who are going on these trips, have a great time! I envy you! 8-)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/18/97 at 17:07:54
Karina: I think the second guestbook is a great idea! I do appreciate everyone's creativity but sometimes I only have a few seconds to catch up on what's going on. I also think it's fair to point out that after all, you created this site and you're
the boss. We are all benefiting from your hard work and providing a place for 'maniacs to share our common interests. One of the things I like most about your site is that it is continually evolving and growing to accomodate not only those of us who post
frequently, but I suspect, many others who visit often but haven't yet taken the plunge. Thanks!
Jane <janeo@smartnfinal.comfoo>
Los Angeles, CA USA - 06/18/97 at 16:55:59
Flights of Fancy Now Available
The virtual party/fiction section is now available to spin your hearts out in. I ask that we keep any of our flights at the romance level they are now at. This is a page for all ages and sensiblities and would like to keep it that way. Have fun.
Karina <karina@fred.netfoo>
USA - 06/18/97 at 16:51:31
RE: the fact vs. fantasy thread. I've been around this place for quite a while now and it occurs to me that the reason the fantasy part got started is because there is so little "fact" to be discussed at present. Most of the aspects of ARs past performances (as we have knowledge of them) have been discussed nearly to death. The lack of factual discussion has lead us to conjecture and deduction in search of viable answers to our questions. Unfortunately, even that is only fun for so long and then voila we turn to fantasy. And whether you like it or hate it, it beats the pants off of some other guestbooks for other celebrities where, for lack of subject matter, everyone just
keeps posting HE'S SUCH A BABE!!! over and over. Bleah! At least we've got wit and intelligence on our side and besides what else have we got to do until the next sweet morsel of AR finds it's way to out to our local theater, TV, radio or wherever it comes from? But that's just my opinion... (homage to Dennis Miller).
Lisa
Riverside, CA USA - 06/18/97 at 16:43:39
For those who would like to keep track of Alan's television appearances in America, go to http://www.tv-now.com/stars/rickman/html.
Robyn
Miami, USA - 06/18/97 at 16:31:28
Add my hand to the show of those who'd prefer two guestbooks. As for "Die Hard"--it's difficult to resist that film, because, since our arrival in LA some years ago, both my husband and I have had many business engagements which have taken us to "Nakatomi Plaza". It is impossible to enter the parking structure, wind through the tunnels to the lobby, cross to the elevator bank, and float up to one or another floors without, at some point, having Beethoven dance across the synapses...usually for the rest of the day. Sometimes, I love LA.
Mari
USA - 06/18/97 at 14:54:44
OK, it's easy to criticize rather than contribute, but thank goodness I'm not the only one bored to bits by skimming through in hope of an interesting comment only to find endless episodes of daydreams featuring the interrogator in charge of the barbecue e.t.c, e.t.c. Speaking for myself I can only say the guestbook had lost it's appeal of late, but recent comments give new hope! The thing is one doesn't want to spoil anybody else's fun either, perhaps we ("critics") had better just be more active ourselves! Change of subject, a project supposedly including AR, "Blue Room", I found out is to be directed by Pat O'Connor of "The January Man"(also "Cal" and "A month in the country"). Has anyone else heard about this project? I'm not sure what to believe since the same source (p.c.-filmlexicon) listed AR's filmroles as including "On deadly ground", a Steven Segal (braindead) actionfilm, which I can't help but think must be a mix up ,but maybe it's just a well kept secret!?
Siam
Oslo, Norway - 06/18/97 at 14:23:16
Hmm, well I havent been here often and whenever I do there's always soooo much more stuff to read (which is a good thing btw). We seem to be talking about 'Die Hard' today so I'll offer my insignificant views...
The best thing about the movie is obviously AR *but* the best thing about AR's performance has got to be his first few minutes on screen when he says absolutly nothing!! He just *looks*...the odd raise of the eyebrow or titch of the nose...now if that ain't top class acting, I dunno what is.
And of course "And when Alexander saw the bredth of his domain he wept, for there were no more worlds to conquer" ... I love that bit.
Anyway, sorry about that...noone else listens when I ramble on about him. (awww).
Bye now.
Ellen
St Albans, H England - 06/18/97 at 14:16:07
Gotta question: Has anyone seen any of AR's art work?? Mary Anne: I don't think you have irritated or offended anyone. Your fantasies reflect your intimate acquaintance with and appeciattion of his work which is the common thread with most of us.
(Personally, I love your enthusiasm.) The recent thread just demonstrates a difference in what motivates us to drop in here at all. I think the two guestbooks is a great idea. Karina, like Noel..if there's anything I can do (including finances), just whistle. I'm so grateful to you and appreciate all your hard work. You deserve all the awards going. BC..The Colin Firth thing flew by me too. If you saw the earlier BBC "P&P" with Elizabeth Garvey, I could see David Rintoul's appeal. Firth seemed older than I imagine Darcy to be. Incidentally, does anyone remember the BBC Jane Eyre with Michael Jayston? I'd love to add that to my collection. Received "Barchester" yesterday. Stayed up and watched it. (This is more my speed--guess I'm a tea-and-crumpet type after all.) I love the Forsythe Sagas, also. (Ever see, "That Forsythe Woman" with Greer Garson and my absolute favorite looker, Errol Flynn?) Love the way we are growing in this "relationship." Like a family. Take care...
Debbye
Washington, DC USA - 06/18/97 at 14:06:02
Thanks to Chris and Jean for your responses to my music
query.
Andrea
LI, NY USA - 06/18/97 at 13:46:36
Can anybody tell me what AR is doing right now? As in filming/rehearsing what, where and with whom? Tall order perhaps, but the German media just hasn't caught on to him yet and we're starved of info here in mitteleuropa! All info gratefully received.
Also if anyone happens to know if he's performing in August (in London, eg.), please drop a line. Thanks!
kanut
USA - 06/18/97 at 13:39:46
A quick P.S.--Joan, you've never seen DH? Then you're in for
a treat. AR at his handsomest, and a great "scenery chewer"
role as well, not as over the top as the Sheriff, but great
fun. An elegant, spine-chilling villain. And no, I don't carry
concealed weapons around types like that--I carry them IN PLAIN
SIGHT! 8-)
Mary Anne <maellis@jbpp.comfoo>
USA - 06/18/97 at 13:20:39
Help me out on a question that has come up. At the end of S&S, during the wedding scene, a man comes up the pathway carrying something on a pole decorated with ribbons and flowers. I have always believed that it was a wedding cake, but my friend tells
me that, although she doesn't know what it is, it definitely is not a cake. Her logic is why would he bring the cake to the church especially when Marianne and Brandon are leaving just then. I say it is a cake as evidenced by the fact that all the little
children are following behind so eagerly.
Lisa
Riverside, CA USA - 06/18/97 at 13:16:47
Dear folks: a somewhat more serious post than usual, and come
of it what may. Just wanted to say, as I've seen some recent
entries for the first time, that I had no idea of the extent
of this situation. I won't call it a "problem" because Rebecca
spoke up before it became one, and we're far too civilized to
flame. Anyway, if my zanies have irritated/offended anyone,
I am most TMD sorry ; such was never my intent. And thank you,
Karina, for your efforts--truly worthy of the award suggestion
for you that I posted. Also, for those who want to get in
touch about other threads (like the opera thread--hi, Gail!),
check with me at maellis@jbpp.com and we can natter a little
as time permits. Warmest regards to you all,
Mary Anne
USA - 06/18/97 at 13:15:55
I also second the motion re the introduction
of a second guestbook for the flights of fancy, then I can visit
either as I feel like it and time allows - and there would be more
continuity in the storytelling. Lisa - I'm sorry my great theory
regarding the AR contribution (s) went up in flames, but I did
appreciate the Almeida spoof it was, to quote, priceless!
Gail <grayment@istar.cafoo>
Toromto, Canada - 06/18/97 at 13:06:37
I think the double guest book is a good idea as it has grown
to rather unweildly (sp.?) proportions. If there is any way I
can support you Karina please let me know--financial or otherwise.
For now I send you a virtual hand massage by Dr. Mesmer!
Take care all and a welcome to the new posters!
Noel <nmm@episcopalhighschool.orgfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/18/97 at 12:20:49
Re: the Willoughby debate. Greg Wise was a competent actor, but clearly outclassed by AR. What if Lee had cast a clever scamp -- a Brad Pitt type -- or someone more complex. Clearly if we all love AR we can love a bad boy at times. This reminds me
of an article I read long ago about deciding whether you were a Rhett or an Ashley fan (in the context of Gone With The Wind, of course), which led to an analysis of the type of men you fall for. In my own case, having three small children I can't even
think of the name Willoughby without hearing Raffi singing in my head "Willoughby Wallaby Woo, An Elephant Sat on You..."
susan
USA - 06/18/97 at 11:37:36
I, too, second the motion for two guestbooks: one for facts and one for fantasies. I apologize for the duplicate post; I swear I only hit the send key once!
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/18/97 at 11:33:39
How about if I start a second guestbook. One specifically for parties and flights of fancy and one
as a more informational/analytical facility?
Karina <karina@fred.netfoo>
USA - 06/18/97 at 11:23:51
B.C., I love the Forsyte Saga to the point that I read all nine every 10 years.
To me, it is THE novel of the 20th century, but greatly
underrated.
Emma
USA - 06/18/97 at 11:15:47
Anyone with news of the reading, please, PLEASE, keep us up to date. Surely Breda Daly at Almeida knows by now that she could sell out any performance just by advertising on this site.
Laurie <lreid@cga.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/18/97 at 11:00:45
Rebecca, thank you for saying what I've been thinking. Regarding the Pemberley fiction -- I've only been lurking, but I, too, find it interesting that the S&S fiction focuses on Marianne and Willoughby's future. Never Love By Halves is making
me sad (and angry! How can any sane woman choose that blackguard over such a man?) And also, in other Pemberley discussions, S&S was reckoned Austen's 4th best novel. The Pemberley page makes me laugh at myself -- they can talk on and on about S&S and
rarely, if ever even mention AR! Definitely a reality check. I think I need to branch out . . . I don't see the appeal of Colin Firth either. And one more note: way back somewhere in this guestbook, there was a discussion of The Forsyte Saga. I'm now totally engrossed - thanks to whoever recommended it.
BC
Washington, DC USA - 06/18/97 at 10:59:46
Jane, thanks so much for the heads up about "Die Hard." I've set my VCR and am very curious to see this movie. Normally I'd never watch an action movie, but this one will be different I'm sure. I also will get to see the evil Hans who has been persuing Mary Ann at all the parties. Although Mary Ann keeps insisting she does not have detonators or any other concealed weapons, hmmm, doth the lady protest too much? Mary Ann are you tempting Hans? Be careful.
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/18/97 at 09:29:30
Amen to Rebecca, Elizabeth and Melissa. Maybe we could split this guestbook up -- "Facts" and "Fantasies" or something like that. Clearly there are many who like to indulge but it is not to everyone's taste.
susan
USA - 06/18/97 at 09:29:05
The qoute from Irish Republic was included in the Reuters Business Briefings yesterday. Normally the news would be less than two days old. There was no mentioning of the context of the reading. Nor was any dates publiced. There is also another S&S sequel on the Pemberley page, called an uninvited wedding guest. Why do all sequels have to deal with the temptation of Marianne being involved with Villoughby? That man is history!
Eva
Copenhagen, Denmark - 06/18/97 at 07:07:32
Andrea - When John McClane gets to the party the string quartet is playing the 1st
movement of the 3rd Brandenburg, which sounds a bit thin and weedy. Jamie and the guys
play it with the full complement of 3 violins, 3 violas, 3 cellos, double bass and continuo. As
soon as the gang is on its way, when we first see the big truck, the quartet has switched to
Hans's theme, the Ode to Joy from the 4th movement of Beethoven's 9th symphony. (It is
played full blast when they finally breach the vault).
I love the tunes they play at the dance in AABA. As they come in it's "The weather outside is
frightful..." (Let it snow etc - Al's theme in DH) As O'Hara whisks Stella off to dance the tune
is "You make me feel so young". When he ditches the old girlfriend to take Stella home it's
"Every time we say goodbye... I cry/die a little". Very clever.
The Winter Guest, as a play, had music by Michael Kamen, who did the music for DH and
RH:PoT.
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/18/97 at 05:23:44
Bravo Susan! I acquired "Sins of the Wolf" or is is "Sons"?
by Ms. Perry and it will be even better reading with the
visage and voice of AR in front of me--thanks! I'm glad to
see there is another Amelia fan out there--I think she is
hysterical altho. the last few novels have been a little too
over the top. The other characters I love by Ms. Peters are
Jacqueline Kirby (?) the librarian and Vicky the art historian.
I agree that we are a genteel, civilized group here but from
admirers of Mr. Rickman who could expect less? Mary Anne and
Rene--"don't go changin'!" Debbye it is great to have you
back--I missed you and Eva too! TMD to all and to all a good
night.
Noel <nmm@episcopalhighschool.orgfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/17/97 at 23:50:56
Yippie Kai Yay again - "Die Hard": the one movie Rickmaniacs and their significant others can enjoy together (albeit for different reasons) is on Thursday night on the USA Network. Check your local listings.
Jane <janeo@smartnfinal.comfoo>
Los Angeles, CA USA - 06/17/97 at 19:12:40
Yup, you're right DH and TMD both have a touch
of the Brandenberg Disease, er Concertos.
Chris <ckwible@ptd.netfoo>
NJ USA - 06/17/97 at 18:35:59
Over the course of the past fifteen months hundreds of women (and a handful of brave men) from around the world have collaborated here, and somehow during this time we've managed collectively to inform and entertain each other. For the most part it's been a remarkably amiable conversation, I think, with abundant generosity (e.g., the Almeida adventure) and very little grandstanding. I agree with Rebecca.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/17/97 at 18:25:10
Hi All: On Sunday I watched the wide-screen version of DH.
Fabulous quality, sound and picture. Before Hans crashes
the Xmas party, a string ensemble plays what sounds like
the piece that Jamie plays with his friends in Nina's
living room in TMD. Can anyone confirm this for me?
Andrea
LI, NY USA - 06/17/97 at 17:43:38
Thanks for the comment, Rebecca. Right on target, IMHO.
Elizabeth
Fairfax, VA USA - 06/17/97 at 17:40:07
Noel: I liked your suggestion that Alan play Emerson Peabody. Since he is constantly bursting his shirt buttons to climb into bed with Amelia, it would be a true wet dream for us. Have you ever read Anne Perry's Inspector Monk series? A group of fellow Perry devotees voted Alan as the hands-down favorite to play Monk if the books are ever filmed.
Has anyone heard about anything Alan might be doing in London at Christmastime? I'll spending the holidays with English friends, and we're working on lining up theatre tickets (Beauty & the Beast has absolute first priority as part of my friend's 8 year old's daughter Christmas gift. Hmm, Alan as the Beast--that voice, that growl!)
Susan Fanning <susan.fanning@mcmail.vanderbilt.edufoo>
Nashville, TN USA - 06/17/97 at 17:39:15
Rebecca: [In my best Sean Connery imitation]"Do I detect a
rebuke?" 8-) No, dear, don't mind me--I know you didn't make
that post to be spiteful, and as a person who is responsible
for more than her share of the "fantasy-spinning," I'll step
forward and take my lumps in that area. A few thoughts: traits
of being a Rickmaniac, from what I've seen here, include wit,
intelligence, humor . . . the list could go on. It's bound to
break out when we're discussing one of our favorite subjects.
As for real news of AR, don't I wish there were more of it!
He guards his privacy (and, out of respect for him, so do we)
and is quite selective about his projects. Which is fine, because
he seems to care more for quality than quantity. All who have
encountered the "Alan who?" response, raise your hands! So . . .
though there is sometimes real news to be had, it's not so often
as we would obviously like. I can assure all of you, if I am
the first to see a new item about him, it'll get here fast enough
to create a sonic boom! Now, as to the fantasy madness . . .
the air was getting a bit thin in here (puff, puff). I promise
to set a good example and cut back a bit. I'd be lying if I
said I'd stop entirely! Oh, and to the "marble-hearted Renie"--
(MA gives sweeping salute with her fencing foil)--I have been
right royally entertained ; it's great fun to "Colonelize"
with you! But, oh, the cruelty . . . the impolitic cruelty . . .
Hugs all around,
Mary Anne
USA - 06/17/97 at 17:25:14
Eva in Copenhagen: When did the notice about Rickman reading Stirrings Still and De Profundis run in the Irish Republic? Will this be done in conjunction with some Irish cultural festival (at the Almeida?) this fall? Who, what, when, where why?
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/17/97 at 16:59:52
Lisa, the disclaimer is fantastic -very funny and very realistic!
At last it occurred to me to borrow a video of TMD which would have the credits on it! The
classical music is Bach, arranged by Pheloung, and the credits have been entered in a very
confusing way.
It says:- Sonata no.3 for cello and piano (viol de gamba and piano) // 2nd movement
Brandenburg concerto no 3 // 1st movement // Sarabande // keyboard concerto no 7,
andante. It should (I think) read :-
Sonata no.3 for cello and piano (viol de gamba and piano), 2nd movement [when Jamie first
appears]
Brandenburg concerto no 3, 1st movement (Sarabande) [Jamie and the guys play it]
keyboard concerto no 7, andante [2nd movement? played at the end of the film].
IMHO AR is doing his own bowing because it (the bow) is wavering about all over the place
like mine, instead of being straight (staying at right angles to the strings). I started learning in
September and find it (as Huck Finn said) "interesting but tough".
In Die Hard, why do you think the right-handed AR shoots Takagi with the gun in his left
hand?
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/17/97 at 16:27:24
Thanks to everybody who e-mailed and/or posted their kind support and praise regarding the disclaimer. I really would have preferred to let that bit remain anonymous, but my self-conscious nature got the best of me when I made that "goofball/big fat idiot" remark later in the guestbook. Everybody knows now that I was just laughing at myself, but I was concerned that some people thought I was being mean to the person that actually wrote it (and I hadn't even had a drink yet!).
Lisa
Riverside, CA USA - 06/17/97 at 15:48:31
Eva: Thanks very much for telling us about AR's projected
readings. It's refreshing to find that actual information
about the actual Alan Rickman and his work (as opposed to
speculation and fantasy-spinning) is still being exchanged
among us.
Rebecca
USA - 06/17/97 at 15:40:50
Using the Internet for the first time this evening, I'm overwhelmed by the amount of info available about AR. By a stroke of luck, his was the first name to occur to me when deciding where to surf. Thanks for all the juicy tidbits, I'll be back!
marius <kanut@t-online.defoo>
Saarbrücken, Germany - 06/17/97 at 15:04:38
Mary Anne, I've been lurking. Reading the old guestbook posts. Loved the party--the location, the disclaimer, the drama! You are hopeless, child, you know that...and very talented. (An occupation is not going to help most of us...we've already run
mad!) Pained by Ellen's plight. (If you are dropping in, Ellen: "My feet want to march to were you are...." I pray you will have the peace of God which passes all understanding.) Bought AABA. (hmm!) Ordered "Barchester" and the right version of "Native". (Can't wait to wrap my ears around The Voice growling, rumbling, purring and singing.) And about The H.... oh yes, I almost forgot, we're not going there! Gotta go fix some weak tea! TMD
Debbye
Washington, DC USA - 06/17/97 at 13:40:30
Hi Everybody! :-) I missed you over the weekend. Friday I watched Rosie and the name of her Senior Talent Coordinator is Tommy Grudup. If we intend to campaign for an AR interview, we should probably address our letters to him, so that they don't get lost in the fan mail shuffle.
Nancy, Thanks for the info from your Penguin Dictionary of Surnames. The book sounds facinating; I'll try to get a copy myself. I can't believe that Mr. Cottle's explanation hadn't occurred to me, but I would rather have AR protect me from the weather (under a haystack? *leer*) than swear fealty to Richard.
Fly on the Wall, the drink had nothing to do with it, I'm maudlin by nature (sorry to embarrass you).
Mary Anne, I'm sure that if we put our heads together, this group could come up with an entire awards show to put the Academy to shame. Of course, our beloved AR would have to host and present all the awards. Regarding *feeling* for your life, as you were talking of the dear one's hands, it conjured up some amazing images. Please forgive me if I ignore the correction. As for the object of our idolatry as Mephistopheles, it's enough to make me start wearing pentagrams and burning incense.
Am I the only one here who can picture AR in Gilbert and
Sullivan (Iolanthe, Ruddigore, or Yoeman of the Guard perhaps)?? Wonder of wonder, miracle of miracles, I actually remembered to close my $%^&* parentheses! Three times!! I warned you all when I started that my typing is a "search and destroy" mission.
I should have also warned you that I talk too damn much!!! (Sorry I rambled on for so long.)
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/17/97 at 12:24:11
AR media sighting!: I was in Columbus, Ohio this past weekend
for a graduation. Of course I had a moment of silent blessing
this state of our beloved site creator/maintainer Karina! At
any rate, I was perusing the magazine stand at the airport and
a headline caught my eye. It is in a women's magazine called
"First for Women" and it is a little piece on why can't men
today be like the heroes of the past. It had a picture of
AR from S&S (in the carriage at the wedding) it also featured
photos of Colin Firth etc. Worth a look at! Also has anyone
read a series of books about a nineteenth centurey archaeologist,
Amelia Peabody? It is a mystery series by Elizabeth Peters.
Very light reading but extremely entertaining. AR would be
perfectly cast as her brilliant stalwart husband Emerson!
It was great to catch up on all the great entries from the
weekend--thanks! TMD, Noel
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/17/97 at 10:47:59
Lisa -- Thank you for the wonderful disclaimer. I thought it was hilarious!! When I read it originally, I just assumed it was one of our crazy, clever Rickmaniacs who posted it, but then as the party wore on, and after one 'cyber-Madeira' too many, I
began thinking "What if...?" ... I imagined AR's wonderful voice saying those words, especially the "God help us" line, rolliing his eyes at the thought of all us wonderfully crazy women, and grinning from ear to ear. Can't you just picture it?!
Deb A. <maalbers@uniserve.comfoo>
Canada - 06/17/97 at 10:26:44
According to The Irish Republic, Alan Rickman is involved i a reading of Becketts Stiring Still and Oscar Wildes De Profundis. The programme will be performed in London in the Authum and perhaps later in Dublin
Eva
Copenhagen, Denmark - 06/17/97 at 10:09:23
Excerpt from a new film series (to be released in installments
like the old movie serials) called *The Misdeeds of Mary Anne*,
Ang Lee, director, music score by Patrick Doyle. Scene: interior,
day. Mary Anne writing frantically, with anxious glances at
the door of her study. Camera closes on the writing and we
read: "Rickmaniacs all, afford me your compassion. The Colonel
will arrive within moments, doubtless to deliver the sternest
rebuke that ever he pronounced, or ever I have heard. Oh, perdurable
shame! Let life be short, or shame will be too long!" (Very
softly, in the background, we hear the 'lament' theme, 'Hung
be the heavens with black, yield, day, to night'. Return to
the writing.) "And, ah, Renie, thou marble-hearted Renie: could'st
not pity and forgive? Is there some cause in nature that makes
these hard hearts? Truly I did not intend that you should once
again run mad at the mention of the deplorable 'h' word, let
it not be spoken here. Oh, what a rogue and peasant slave am
I..." (SFX, sound of approaching footsteps. A determined stride,
firm, implacable) "'Tis he!! Thou sure and firm-set earth,
hear not those steps, which way they walk . . . sweet Rickmaniacs
all, think of me, if thou didst ever hold me in thy heart . . ."
(HEAVY knocking at the door) "I go, and it is done--the knock
invites me . . .it must not, nor it cannot come to good. But
break, my heart, for I must hold my tongue! Break, heart, I
prithee--break!" (Slowly, MA rises to go and answer the door.
All color has drained from her face. Fade to title card: TO
BE CONTINUED . . .)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/17/97 at 09:32:01
Katrina B (8 May) has found most of the classical pieces in TMD, including the piano/cello
duet.
Please will you post the info here, Katrina, or email me. I'd especially like the source of the
cello music.
The music is credited to Barrington Pheloung who has done a lot of TV programme themes
like Inspector Morse. He was originally an Australian guitarist who came to England to study
(at the Royal College of Music). He seems very in-tune with cellos and uses them a lot.
Presumably he used Bach pieces with his own links.
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/17/97 at 09:09:11
Nancy R, I would be interested to know more of this "new evidence" that Richard III was guilty of murdering his nephews - difficult to believe there is anything really new after 500 years, perhaps it's just a "new" interpretation. Your friend may have
read some highly suspect books written by Alison Weir who is not an academic historian. I love your idea of a more "balanced" approach to Richard - whether guilty or innocent he's a complex character and somebody of AR's calibre could bring some understanding to such a role. So forget the age difference!
Liz Anne
St Albans, England - 06/17/97 at 05:18:14
"I never drink--wine...." Not to slight Messrs. Langella
and Julia, but David Dukes as Dracula (yes, on Broadway)was
astonishing. His theatre work has always been first class--
he wiped the stage with Richard Gere ("Bent"), and for those
veryveryvery few lucky enough to see him as Victor in Vic
Gialanella's "Frankenstein"--suffice it to say that David is
one gifted fella. As for Mr. Rickman...I vote he plays
Marlowe's Faustus.
Mari
USA - 06/17/97 at 03:33:47
er...sorry, I'm back again. If anyone wants to have a wee chat with me about Mr Rickman (or anything else) there's a great talker called 'Snowplains' at (Telnet) Snowplains.enquiries.com:3456
It's a good place and I'm there quite often (wasting money.) So, if you can telnet come talk to meee. I'm nice really..er..honest.
Ellen (again)
St Albans, England - 06/16/97 at 23:50:51
Emma, I second the motion....when's the next flight over the border?
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/16/97 at 23:44:47
Well, the man's three times my age but gorgeous none-the-less and one of the great actors of our time....and looks great standing on a monument in a kilt :-)
Ellen
St. Albans, England - 06/16/97 at 23:43:15
Joan, I remember vaguely "Those Lips, etc" being a remake of
"Marjorie Morningstar", but I'm probably wrong. Langella did
a Mel Brooks comedy, "The Twelve Chairs" that's still out there
for rental.
A program with Rickman AND Neeson on the same show! Gad, I
wish I'd gone to Canada for the week!
Emma
USA - 06/16/97 at 19:22:27
For Canadian Rickmaniacs, Tuesday at 8:30pm on WTN on Brian Linehan show he interviews Alan Rickman (and Liam Neeson and Helen Mirren).
Lolly
Canada - 06/16/97 at 18:45:18
Error*s*, of course.
Renie
CA, USA - 06/16/97 at 17:59:27
(Fanning myself furiously) Why oh why didn't we think of this before? As the Count? A sensitive Count, please. Any movie moguls out there reading this? Can Rufus Sewell be the younger male character? AR, what do you say?
Nancy,
I know you were talking to Mary Anne, but as tempting as Otello's Iago might be, I'm voting for less villanous roles in general. (Although AR rendering "I believe in a cruel God!" might be quite, quite, chilling. And he would have a pretty tough time paired with Placido Domingo unless he were a bona fide opera star.) And Richard III is so downright mean. (Although a libretto with "your bedchamber" - which would have to be spoken, not sung...but I digress.)
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/16/97 at 17:42:58
Debbye, I second the motion--and the emotion! Welcome back,
gal, where have you been? I missed you! And Sandra, save some
weak tea for me! And a cold compress, and a Valium, and . . .
pant, pant. Oh, but the Doc is going to be so upset . . .
AR in a cape, and NOTHING like the good Colonel . . . [Thud
of MA swooning onto the fainting couch] I'm in trouble now!
Mary Anne
USA - 06/16/97 at 17:42:26
actor's should be actors. Sorry, I knew that looked funny!
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/16/97 at 17:42:09
Here we go with the tentacles again! Frank Langella (my this list has good taste in actor's) was in a movie called "Those Lips, Those Eyes" in l980. I never saw it; it came and went VERY quickly. (I have never been able to find a video of it.) I believe it was a story about a summer stock theatre company and his character was someone who was NOT very nice. Has anyone ever seen this movie? I was lucky enough to see FL in "Dracula" on B'way and also to see R. Julia in several theatre productions. Now, if only I could see AR on the stage I'd be TMD happy :D
Joan
L.I., NY USA - 06/16/97 at 17:39:08
Alright, ladies! Cold compresses and weak tea all around! No more gushing about dark eyes and sex-on-legs and flowing capes and biting and voices and...
Sandra <SYJackson@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/16/97 at 17:13:47
I saw a preview of "Batman & Robin" recently. Although I think the world of George Clooney, I got a little distracted thinking about Alan in the very anatomically-correct bat-suit. Those lips, those eyes hidden ever so slightly in the bat-mask. Just a
thought.
Susan Fanning <Susan.fanning@mcmail.vanderbilt.edufoo>
Nashville, TN USA - 06/16/97 at 17:08:32
Debbye, sorry, I forgot Langella did a Dracula movie. He
was on Broadway this year, doing Noel Coward, but I'm not sure
if he still is. I guess having Mom swooning over R. Julia
biased me toward Julia's version.
I sure hope Rickman reads your entry! Not that we've been
demure here.
Emma
USA - 06/16/97 at 16:42:00
Ladies..have some mercy!! Some of us are at work. Frank Langella is accused of ruining The Count. After his portrayal, with those eyes and those lips, Dracula could never be frightening again. I remember leaving the theatre and all the ladies (myself including) came out muttering, " He could bite me..and he wouldn't be limited to the neck either!" Took me months to be able to discuss this film objectively. (I still only watch the video when I'm in the right mood...too tempting!) Now you want to
cast "Sex on Legs" as The Prince of Darkness???!! You'll have women throwing bricks at their husbands!!
Debbye
Washington, DC USA - 06/16/97 at 16:31:37
Sandra, Langella would look much better with a different haircut, but
he's still has that voice. Yum.
Raul Julia was splendid, to the point that my own mother
swooned (gasp!) during the bedroom scene! The theater lost
a wonderful actor.
Now, Rickman in a cape...
Emma
USA - 06/16/97 at 16:29:28
You too, Emma? You just reminded me of two of my all-time favorite actors. I never got to see either of them live, but I saw a lot of "small" productions via Public Television and other sources. BTW, I think Frank still has "it". Whoopie ( you go,
girl!) Goldberg thinks so, too! I also agree about the "men in capes" scenario. My college roomate was in a snit and was lying on her bed pouting one Halloween night. I walked out of the room, and saw a "vampire" leaving a message on another student's
door. I said, "Come with me," and opened the door to our room. Without anyone saying a word, "the Count" walked in, threw his cape over my roomate, bit her, and swept out. We never found out who he was.
Sandra <SYJackson@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/16/97 at 15:20:08
Sorry, Renie, my message should've been addressed to Mary Anne.
Nancy R.
USA - 06/16/97 at 15:18:28
Renie, I hadn't thought of "Richard's man" in connection with the last Plantagenet, but I like it, Richard III being another enthusiasm of mine (although an English friend tells me there's new evidence that he probably *was* responsible for the murder
of the two princes). Now there would be a great role for AR, but not in Shakespeare's (admittedly great) hatchet-job of a play; someone would have to write something a bit more balanced. Come to think of it, AR's too old, since Richard was something like
33 when he died. Oh well. Two roles I'd love to see AR play are Prospero and Faust. And re. operas, how about Iago in Verdi's Otello, opposite Placido Domingo?
Nancy R. <nroberts@pop.sonic.netfoo>
CA USA - 06/16/97 at 15:17:18
Mary Anne, yes, I meant the Vicomte...but now that you mention
it, I saw Dracula with Frank Langella back when he was
good-looking, and returned with my Mom to see the great Raul
Julia, and that would be a terrific part for AR: They both
played it VERY sexy, and their voices were wonderful. Edward
Gorey did the beautiful stage design. Neither FL or RJ used
fangs, but I developed a fascination with tall men in capes.
Emma
USA - 06/16/97 at 14:04:02
Emma: If by "The Count" you mean the Vicomte--no, I'd remember
anything he did to me. He'd see to that, because he'd probably
want to savor the pleasure of my regrets. Perhaps you might
have been referring to a certain . . . Transylvanian . . . count?
I don't *think* AR has played that one, but gad, what a role
for him! [Pause while MA checks for bite marks] All clear, but
just the thought makes my neck tingle. Guess who'll be wearing
a large silver crucifix at the next party . . . And Renie,
please, don't leave me dangling like this---!
Mary Anne
USA - 06/16/97 at 13:23:01
Gail, Re: conjecture on who wrote the greeting and the Almeida disclaimer. Since reading the greeting from the alleged AR, I have also imagined the exact same scenario as you. However, as to the disclaimer, that was me that wrote that. I sort of alluded to the fact earlier when I mentioned that the disclaimer was really big and wondered "what goofball did that?" The goofball was me. I guess not as many people saw my boo-boo as I thought, but when I wrote the disclaimer, I tried to make a headline larger than the rest of the text, messed up my HTML, and turned the whole guestbook into giant sized font. I was going to try to save myself further embarrassment and forget about it but I thought I better mention it now lest anyone think I was being mean to someone else by calling them a goofball or a big fat idiot. I was just laughing at myself. I hope no one was offended...
Lisa <pubdefrv.lwagner@co.riverside.ca.usfoo>
Riverside, CA USA - 06/16/97 at 11:28:50
Mary Anne, not to be nosy, but I do seem to detect a coincidence
between your temporary amnesia and the fact that the Count was
conspicuously absent from the party. But forgive me... I do
not want to be indiscreet.
I also need a spell-check!
Emma
USA - 06/16/97 at 11:15:45
That should be "fleeing" for my life, by the way. I certainly
don't need to feel for it to find it! It's too early in the
morning . . . (Grrrrr)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/16/97 at 09:27:30
Nancy: Interesting stuff on derivation of "rickman" as "Richard's
Man"--could there have been an ancestor at Redmore Plain, better
known to us as Bosworth Field? Hmmmm . . . A few others: Gail,
you'll be hearing from me on the opera thread. And Emma, it will
only be first-class flights for me from now on!!! Brrrrrrr!!!
Finally, Renie . . . (camera closes on MA sinking slowly to
her knees) Please, please, don't tell the Colonel anything
about all this!!! I'm SO sorry, please, I'll do ANYTHING you
ask . . . I can bear the brutality of Hans, the leering of
the Sheriff, even the God-knows-what attentions of the Interrogator
(I STILL don't know what happened to me at that last party ;
if anyone else does, please speak up), but that look of sorrowful
disappointment from the Colonel can serve, for types like me,
as an adequate substitute for the rack and thumbscrews! BTW,
Renie, since we're so "interested" in his "digital configurations,"
perhaps we could share the "Hands Grabber" award! [Shot of
MA feeling for her life!] Have a good day, all. Once again,
Renie, DO forgive me--and have fun with your "practicing . . ."
Mary Anne
USA - 06/16/97 at 09:25:16
More from the U. K.: In The Economist of 14-VI-97, Farrol
Kahn of the Aviation Health Institute in Oxford, says "If
you must fly in economy, don't expect to arrive in good
shape. The cheaper [airline] seats, he says, are tilted at
an angle (35 degrees) favoured by interrogators wishing
to deprive their subjects of sleep."
No, it couldn't be. . .
Emma
USA - 06/16/97 at 08:51:21
Mary Anne - a Rickmaniac, an opera lover, and a baritone fan to boot?
Yes - the perfect Scarpia. And how about Onegin? I would love to hear from you directly if you would like
to discuss this type of casting in more detail. Gail
Gail <grayment@istar.cafoo>
USA - 06/15/97 at 23:39:50
Is it just my computer, or have we lost our dear, lovely little sound bite?! May we have it back Karina? Thank you always for this wonderful page.
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/15/97 at 22:23:25
I was so excited today to find a copy of "Fallen Angels" at the Best Buy store here in Valencia! It is the only Alan video that I didn't have in my collection. I was even more excited when I saw the price - $3.99! I know that "Murder Obliquely" is only 30 minutes long but, when you are as starved as I am to see Alan in something I haven't seen yet I'm sure it will be worth it. I'm forcing my husband to watch it with me tonight (he is rather bored with all the other videos that I force him to watch
over and over.) I'm sure he will tell me he loves it just to please me!
BOO
Valencia, CA USA - 06/15/97 at 19:36:27
I just completed listening to Maugham's "The Moon and Sixpence" read by Robert Hardy. I understand there is a possibility that AR will be case in an upcoming movie version of same. I appears to me that it will, while being a vehicle for his immense talent as an actor and artist (reportedly), add another "bad guy" stamp on his career. This, of course, is assuming he plays the lead as Strickland/Gauguin. Whatever the public will say about the role, i.e. "bad-guy", "free thinker", etc., there is no doubt, no doubt, that Mr. Rickman is the actor-of-actors who could wring the deepest emotions from the audience. Whether or not the movie is made, I feel my time listening to Robert Hardy's reading was very well spent and now I am tentacly dusting off my
collection of Maugham's books.
Jannsue <Jannsue@aol.comfoo>
OK USA - 06/15/97 at 18:30:14
Mary Anne, dearest, *now* who's the torturer! Maybe the penalty for mentioning hands in a post should be a mandatory inclusion of a different hand photo link and/or film/stage hand moment or reference, otherwise people like me will run mad. [I shall
report your misconduct to you know who, MA. (And he will look hurt, how can you bear it?)] As for being a writer (yes, published, but not my screenplay yet(!)) and having AR see our performances - well, he's already been here and seen our first one, right Gail? (VBG)
I suppose I should voluntarily step foward for the STIC (Silver Thermos for Impolitic Cruelty) Award (as in "give her the STIC") for the last party when I summarily closed the bidding quite early on a priceless prize. However, I will
be able to play beautifully for our next virtual party (a duet with the Colonel!), which perhaps should be a more refined high tea affair. Not too soon, though, I'm still *practising* ;-) MMMMmmmmmmmmmm.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/15/97 at 17:54:09
Kate in Alexandria, I liked your message on the meaning of the surname Rickman. There's a different derivation in my Penguin Dictionary of Surnames, 2nd edition, by the splendidly opinionated Basil Cottle (saddled with a Dickensian moniker like that, it's no wonder he became an expert on names): "Servant of (dim) Richard." That's "dim" as in "diminutive" or nickname (i.e., Rick), not "dim" as in "a few detonators short of an explosion." In other words, Cottle believes that Rickman originally meant "Rick's man." Must say, Kate, I find your haystack explanation more plausible. And in reference to AR, I can't see him being anybody's servant, but I can see him making hay!
Nancy R. <nroberts@pop.sonic.netfoo>
CA USA - 06/15/97 at 17:06:43
Dear folks: with all I've been reading in here lately from
new neighbors in the guestbook, I am reminded that this is
a lovely group of people. Bernie, your entry was very moving,
and I've done quite a bit of smiling (and not a little laughing)
over some of the entries that the comics among us should take
our act "on the road." But I wouldn't quite dare: what if AR
showed up at one of our performances? With all this in mind,
I'm beginning to think we should have our own Rickmaniac Awards
Show or something. Hmmm, let's see . . . for the Rickmaniac
Life Achievement Award: Karina, of course, for her hard work
in creating and maintaining this page, a noble service to
fans all over the world. On a more serious note, the Colonel
Brandon Medal for Courage in Adversity should probably go to
Ellen. Hope she'll reappear one day to receive it. In other areas,
there could be an Interrogator Award (shaped like a silver
thermos, perhaps?) for Impolitic Cruelty, but we're such a
nice bunch of people it goes unclaimed year after year. If I
were to receive one myself, it would most likely be the Hans
Gruber "Please Don't Let Me Die!" Panic Button (cast in the
shape of a small detonator) for Person Least Likely to Survive
the Next Party. 8-) If we have another one of those, I think
it should probably be a masquerade ball--then I might stand
a chance of not being recognized by any of the villains! Can't
seem to stay clear of them. On second thought, since I was
mischievous enough to start these "virtual parties" in the
first place, perhaps my prize would be the Colonel Brandon
"God Forgive Me" Award for Conspicuous Overindulgence ("God
forgive me, I indulged her, I gave her too much freedom . . .")
Ah, well. Need some recovery time before the next party, anyway.
And here's another thought: I was reading some of the older
entries and followed a thread on what other professions AR might
have followed if he hadn't become an actor--my favorite of
those was "massage therapist," naughty me. Think of having
your stresses soothed away by those HANDS . . . (sorry, Renie,
too wicked of me.) That would only be replacing one kind of
tension with another! But I had the thought of what it would
be like if, in some alternate universe, his vocal gifts had
taken a slightly different direction and he were an operatic
baritone. Any of you who are opera nuts like me, think about
it. Mephistopheles in *Faust* . . . Dr. Miracle in *Tales of
Hoffman* . . . Scarpia in *Tosca* (Great bumpy chills on that
last.) As for those of you who attended the last party but
were "too shy" to join in--Hi there, "Fly on the Wall!"--do feel
free to drop in anytime. You'll come to no harm from us, but
some of these villainous characters, well . . . take warning
from me and my various misadventures! And Bernie, hope you'll
be a regular. Now, having done enough damage for one afternoon,
I really must go. "Loin de cet heureux sejour, le temps fuit
sans retour . . ."
Mary Anne
USA - 06/15/97 at 16:08:26
It's been a long time since I've posted, in part because all our bookmarks mysteriously disappeared and partly because I've started a new job and haven't had as much free time. Also, I suspect, because life has taken a different turn. But a couple of weeks ago I logged back on and spent hours reading past posts, and this morning when I logged on I found Ellen's message and it affected me deeply. I, too, was using Alan Rickman's films as a haven -- it filled holes in my life left by a broken marriage, a
job loss, and the deaths of several friends and relatives, including my mum. Several of you have told Ellen what a strong person she is -- something my friends have been telling me, as well. But when you're in the midst of the pain you don't feel very strong. I can't begin to imagine what Ellen must have been going through; my children have been the only anchor in my life the last couple of years and if someone had threatened to take them away ... well, I don't know what I would've done. I hope I, like
Ellen, would've been strong enough to say NO. How wonderful that she could draw strength from film characters. I wonder if AR has any idea of the impact his work has on ordinary -- not that ellen's has been ordinary -- lives. I'll bet Ellen lurks here now
and then; it's hard to completely sever something that has been a lifeline for so long. In the event that she's reading this, I wish her well. Her children are very lucky that she put her own pain aside to fight for them. I don't know how old they are, but I bet she finds out someday -- as I did -- that everything she sowed in them, will be reaped a thousandfold. And I hope she buys herself a beautiful, new notebook to write in. As wonderful as the Internet might be, there is a greater permanence to words set on paper. All the thoughts she lost when the internet gobbled up her words should be set down on a clean, white page so that someday she can look back and see exactly how much she has accomplished. I'm glad you shared your words with us. Good luck
to you and your children.
Bernie (a female version)
Montreal, QC CANADA - 06/15/97 at 14:12:08
Thanks Mari, I agree....wsa just in a rush when I cut & pasted it into the guestbook.
TMD all,
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/14/97 at 14:25:07
Hot news from the U. K. Multiple BAFTA, and three-time
Oscar winner Nick Park, creator of Wallace and Gromit, has
just been awarded an Order of the British Empire. Crackin'!
Emma
USA - 06/14/97 at 12:16:05
"The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore" was written by Gaudio
and Crewe. (Seems only fair to credit the writers, no?)
Mari
USA - 06/14/97 at 03:07:29
There is no way I can compete with the inventiveness of the party
goers - is every Rickmaniac a writer, frustrated or not? - but let me put forward a theory regarding
the entry signed AR a couple of days ago. AR is at the Almeida, possibly to discuss
a forthcoming project. There is chat about the contributions to the theatre from
from the Guest Book readers. This prompts a visit to Karina's site, and the impromptu comment, which,
written by AR or not, I would swear was written by someone English, particularly
with the use of the word priceless in the context of amusing.
A couple of glasses or wine or so later, they decide that they had better compose an
entry more in the spirit of the then ongoing party. The Warning from Management of
the Almeida Wine Bar then gets composed, and entered some three
hours later - very much in the spirit of things.
Whether AR or not, I suspect both came from the same source. Anyone in the UK
want to 'fess up??
GailR <grayment@istar.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/13/97 at 16:16:50
I am NOT, I repeat NOT, reopening the religion can of worms, but someone once made a speculation based on Mr. Rickman's last name.
Both the Oxford English Dictionary and the Tormont Webster's Illustrated Encyclopedic Dicionary (which is a bit
easier to read) contain the following information
rick (n): a stack of hay, straw, or similar material especially when covered or thatched for protection from the weather.
rick (v) To pile in ricks. [Middle English reke, Old English hreak
, akin to Old Norse hraukr.
For what it's worth, a rickman is undoubtedly "one who stacks hay, straw, or similar materials." A good, honest, agricultural profession. I hope that I haven't bored you all to tears, but I thought it worth the
mention.
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/13/97 at 15:13:28
That WAS a party! Although virtual it managed to be quite authentic. Late arrivals, no shows, out of hand guests, and wallflowers. Right down to the person who got a little too tipsy and became embarassingly maudlin.
A Fly on the Wall
USA - 06/13/97 at 14:57:09
Anna--if you are crazy, then I am too (I am 15). Your friends sound a lot like mine. Every time I say anything about AR, they tell me I must be insane. They just don't know what they are missing.
Sarah <MadeleineY@aol.comfoo>
Akron, OH USA - 06/13/97 at 11:55:21
Good morning, Rickmaniacs. I found this item about Trekkies. Change "Star Trek" to "AR" and make a few modifications in the wording, and it begins to sound like a bunch of wonderful people I know who shall remain nameless...
Star Trek fans are like drug addicts who suffer withdrawal symptoms if deprived of their favorite television show, a British study has shown. One woman ''Trekkie'' spent her whole holiday worrying that her video recorder had not been set properly at
home to catch the latest instalment. Another spent $10,000 on Star Trek merchandise every year. After studying fans for four years, psychologist Sandy Wolfson said: ''My research found that about five to 10 percent of fans met the psychological criteria of addiction.'' ''They show withdrawal symptoms such as frustration and agitation if they miss an episode and develop higher tolerance levels, so they need increasing doses,'' Wolfson told the London Times. But the news is not all bad. ''Most Trekkies
have made friends and even met spouses through their love of the series and they are intellectually challenged by the range of moral and ethical dilemmas presented in the show,'' Wolfson said.
Have a great, AR-filled weekend, everyone. I hope we all get a "fix" soon.
Sandra <SYJackson@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/13/97 at 10:34:16
Sorry, it's Kate that was the "extraordinary thief." Sarah,
my apologies. Not that I could blame anyone for desiring
Brandon's company!
Mary Anne
USA - 06/13/97 at 09:23:46
To Anna, age 14: No indeed, you're not crazy ; I'd say you're
developing extraordinary good taste at an early age! Believe
me, I had the same problem at that time--my peers giggled over
teen idols and I already had a taste for grown men. Re: *Rasputin*--
has already been on HBO, tape pretty widely available. And Sarah(?)
dear, don't feel bad about "stealing my protector." 8-) The
good Colonel could never refuse a lady in distress, which is,
of course, one of the reasons we think so highly of him, isn't it?
I'm a little worried, though ; he's really put out with how
The Interrogator has been behaving to me (and others, for all I know)
at these parties. I'm so afraid he's going to "call out" Mr.
I to the field of honor. Problem is, if he challenges, then Mr.
I will get to choose the weapons. Please, ladies, help me
talk him out of it--or at least talk to Hans and persuade him
to loan Brandon some twentieth century firearms! What's that,
Colonel darling? Yes, I promise I'm staying out of trouble and
being very, very good . . . [grin]
Mary Anne
USA - 06/13/97 at 09:21:22
I am a major fan of Alan Rickman and want to be kept up to date with what he is currently doing. I have seen all his films, except Rasputin - when is that coming out? I would dearly love to see him on stage and wonder if he is appearing in any plays
in London this year?
Carol-Anne Hernon <chernon@eurologic.comfoo>
Dublin, Ireland - 06/13/97 at 06:59:03
From London Times Internet Edition, 6-9-97, "Out to Lunch" column by Philip Delves Broughton: Trevor Nunn, theatre director who will take over at the National Theatre later this year. Goes to: The Ivy, Le Caprice, The People's Palace. Eats: The Ivy's upmarket nursery food, bangers and mash, fishcakes. Drinks: modestly. Lunches with: Imogen Stubbs, ALAN RICKMAN, Richard Eyre, Sir Peter Hall, Sir Cameron Mackintosh. Style: not a formal luncher, wears trainers, loose jackets, maybe a script poking out of his pocket. He looks more like a polytechnic lecturer than a multimillionaire director.
Kathi O. <elmer117@sat.netfoo>
Nederland, TX USA - 06/12/97 at 23:24:21
The list of the 10 worst roles for Alan Rickman to play is
wonderful. Here, however, is a slightly different list:
the 10 most alarming ways to cast him. The difference is:
of the major roles in The Tempest, the worst choice would
be to cast him as Ferdinand (and lucky us, the RSC has
already done this); the most alarming would be to cast him
as Ariel, which is my number 10. The rest of the list:
9) Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol; 8) The voice of Bambi;
7) Courtney Love in The Kurt Cobain Story; 6) Christ in
Paradise Regained: The Movie; 5) Helen Keller; 4) Sylvia
Plath; 3) George Bailey in It's A Wonderful Life;
2) Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz; 1) Mary Poppins.
Sofia
USA - 06/12/97 at 22:46:36
HELP! I'm only 14 and I've fallen into him! Do you think I'm crazy?
My friends do!
Anna <anners@innerx.netfoo>
GA USA - 06/12/97 at 21:43:55
I am so glad to find other Rickmaniacs. None of my friends know who he is (they are all drooling over Leonardo DiCaprio). I love the site and the pictures. What is AR working on now? Can't wait for whatever it is.
Sarah <MadeleineY@aol.comfoo>
Akron, OH USA - 06/12/97 at 20:41:55
Karina, thanks so much for setting up the chat room! I always enjoy browsing through the guest book and now I can chat with all the other Rickmaniacs like myself out there. (There do seem to be a lot of us, don't there?) Thank goodness for the Internet because I honestly thought I was the only one who knew who Alan Rickman was. How wonderful to know I have lots of company!
BOO
Valencia, CA USA - 06/12/97 at 18:56:09
The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore
Loneliness is the cloak you wear
A deep shade of blue is always there
The sun ain't gonna shine anymore
The moon ain't gonna rise in the sky
The tears are always clouding your ey-eyes
When you're without love...ba-a-a-a-by
Emptiness is the place you're in
Nothin' to lose but no more to win
The sun ain't gonna shine anymore
The moon ain't gonna rise in the sky
The tears are always clouding your ey-eyes
When you're without love
Lonely, without you, baby
Girl, I need you
I can't go o-o-o-o-on
The sun ain't gonna shine anymore
(The sun ain't gonna shine anymore)
The moon ain't gonna rise in the sky
(The moon ain't gonna rise in the sky)
The tears are always clouding your eyes
(The tears are always clouding your eyes)
(Sun ain't gonna shine anymore)
When you're without love...ba-a-a-a-by
Rebecca
USA - 06/12/97 at 16:56:41
I really must apologize. I suppose that I should have spent time with Hans at the party. He may have granted me a modicum of professional courtesy as I seem to have been an extraordinary thief - stealing Sandra's escort (I beg your forgiveness, my liege - no disrespect or insult was intended) and stealing Mary Ann's protector (it was only to be for a moment, I assure you). Next time I will spend time with Sinclair so that he won't feel left out. I could certainly use the attention of a sweet, witty, rich man even if he is a bit slow to pick up on sinister undercurrents around him. He could definitely support me in the style to which I would like to become accustomed.
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/12/97 at 16:29:59
AND--incidentally--I just found the 1987 Book Club edition
of LES LIAISONS! 4 b/w photos, 3 of Valmont, and he's on
the dust jacket too if you're lucky enough to find a copy
with one. This edition is a must for every 'Maniac's
bookshelf!
R.Faey
USA - 06/12/97 at 16:02:05
Yes, this is a SHOUT (over all the party noise). DOES THE
PAPERBACK TIE-IN TEXT TO THE BBC'S ROMEO & JULIET INCLUDE
PHOTOS OF A.R. AS TYBALT? (Thanks! Bibliography is *my*
party, but this out-of-print book is impossible to find.
Snapped up by students and teachers?)
R.Faey
USA - 06/12/97 at 15:58:35
Hey! Almost forgot: what's this "Java thingamabob"?
I know nothing about computers except how to find
you guys. It's amazing I can do this much.
Ok, now I'm off to the pub! Toodles!
Nicole <Privatefoo>
Tampa, FL USA - 06/12/97 at 15:43:32
Hello my passionate Rickman nuts! Thanks for the info.
If that really was A.R., I feel like tremendous twit!
Arrrrrrrgh!!! Oh well. I'll just cross my fingers.
Hope I didn't rip his heart out. At least I didn't
use a spoon. Farewell. Off to drink a pint!
Nicole <Privatefoo>
Tampa, FL USA - 06/12/97 at 15:31:11
Oops! I meant to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ELLEN!!! :-)
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/12/97 at 14:29:11
HPPY BIRTHDAY, ELLEN!!! :-)
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/12/97 at 14:22:19
Susan and Noel--wow! Your "top tens" are terrific. Looks like
I've started something . . . again. And then there's always,
"Top Ten Things We'd Say if We Met AR Without Warning"--"TT
Rickmaniac Responses to AR in the Guestbook"--"TT Exclamations
From AR on Reading Our Guestbook." And then, personally, there's
Top Ten things I'd like to do to . . . but never mind about that.
After all, I did promise the Colonel I'd *try* to be good. 8-)
Susan, I can't exactly say "enjoy" CL, but let me know what
you think/thought about it. If you haven't watched it yet, well,
buckle your safety belt. And be warned that it may put you off
of barbecue . . . for life.
Mary Anne
USA - 06/12/97 at 13:23:24
Top 10 Roles AR Shouldn't Play?
10. Mrs. Doubtfire
9. Data
8. Forrest Gump
7. Ace Ventura
6. Puck
5. Bill Clinton (when Oliver Stone makes the movie)
4. Gandhi
3. The Invisible Man
2. Chewbacca
1. John Major
By the way, thanks to everyone with the info about Closet Land. I even found a copy to rent.
Susan <Susan.fanning@mcmail.vanderbilt.edufoo>
Nashville, TN USA - 06/12/97 at 13:05:41
Gee, I go away for a few days and miss another party! With no Internet access I felt some small amount of solidarity by watching Ruby's show which I thought was a hoot. Check it out next Monday. I returned to find a lovely letter from Breda Daly at
the Almeida, so I think she's catching up with her correspondence.
Jane <janeo@smartnfinal.comfoo>
Los Angeles, CA USA - 06/12/97 at 11:39:31
Great idea Mary Anne! Here it goes...
Top Ten Signs You Are at a Rickmaniac Party
10. the temperature in the room is extremely high.
9. lots of wine, women and song.
8. the bar only serves something called a "detonator"
7. lots of side swiped cars parked in front along with
several befuddled looking horses.
6. the only men present all look suspiciously alike with a
bewildering array of accents.
5. assorted weaponry in the coat check.
4. the house wine is Madeira.
3. Someone named George is in charge of games which consit
of 15 minute increments in a back room...
2. Everyone not in period dress is wearing black.
1. Many witty, clever women are reduced to "languishing"
around.
Let's get those creative juices flowing not that this crowd
needs any encouragement!!!
3.
3.
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/12/97 at 11:36:51
No doubt I am the last person in the guestbook to discover this tentacle, but while browzing yesterday the title of a novel stopped me in my tracks. It's The Sheriff of Nottingham by Richard Kluger, a 500-page 1992 Penguin paperback, probably widely available in libraries. One blurb calls it a real parchment turner, richly imagined and beautifully written. Looks like great summer reading.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/12/97 at 11:00:31
A tidbit for amusement: last night on David Letterman, the
Top Ten List was "Top Ten Signs You're at a Bad Barbecue."
(Gulp) Are all of you thinking what I'm thinking? No mention
of the Interrogator, but his presence would certainly be one
of the signs. I think we should start some Top Tens of our
own, e.g.: "Top Ten Signs You're at a REALLY GOOD Rickmaniac
Party" or--as a change of pace--"Top Ten Roles AR Should NEVER
Play . . ." How about it?
Mary Anne
USA - 06/12/97 at 09:18:57
I forgot to say, Melissa, that I'd do anything for a picnic at Delaford. Golly, I'd even *buy* that (adjective here) (noun here) but that's about all that would force me to it. BTW, it's not necessary to invite Mr. Willoughby.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/12/97 at 03:51:18
Somehow I doubt that the (platitudinous) MP bio will a) improve, unless it's totally re-edited for substance and style. Or maybe it should just have photos - without captions. (g)
(I guess I gotta get a Java-based something-or-other now.)
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/12/97 at 03:40:50
Ellen: We've never met, and I doubt we will. But I will
keep in my prayers you and those you love. May life treat
you gently, and may you know contentment. --Mari
Mari
USA - 06/11/97 at 23:49:09
I have to tell you that I have been giggling all day over
the festivities. Each time I visit the guest book, more wit
and merriment...I can't take it! I think Emma, Kate, Renie
and Mary Anne need to go on the road. Hell, we all need to.
Should we call ourselves the "Rickman Players"? Perhaps we
can become more than just patrons of the Almeida! Well, one
more detonator for the road and I'm off!
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/11/97 at 23:48:42
Ellen, darling, thank you for making it such a happy place here
on the guestbook. We will miss your wit and humor. I hope that
your life will be on the upswing from here on out. All the best,
and please, dont' stay away long. TMD,
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/11/97 at 22:25:08
When last we heard a peep about the real, flesh-and-blood Alan Rickman, he was turning up a day late at a pre-election Labour Party event, and then appearing Election Night with Ruby Wax at a fancy victory party in Hampstead. What IS his daily life like in June of '97? Are he and Minghella collaborating on perfectionistic film editing of The Winter Guest? Is he preparing for The Moon and Sixpence? Beating back yet more film offers with a stick? Trying to talk Fine Line Pictures OUT
of sending him off on the dreaded publicity tour for TWG? Or is he in the political trenches now, with the change in government?
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/11/97 at 18:51:00
The (add your own adjective here) Maureen Paton biography is now out in affordable paperback. Blackwell's Books (www.blackwell.co.uk/bookshops) has it listed at 6 pounds 99. The first person to tell us if the paperback edition is a) an improvement and/or b) if a photo of the Real Rima is correctly captioned wins a picnic at Delaford.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/11/97 at 18:36:56
Just ordered my copy of AABA from the Video Catalog.
Thank you Jannsue and Joan.
Andrea
LI, NY USA - 06/11/97 at 18:06:53
Karina is on a roll.
Karina <karina@fred.netfoo>
USA - 06/11/97 at 18:04:19
Feeling better now. Renie, thanks for the bouquet--lots of
heliotrope, I suppose. 8-) And I know you didn't mean to leave
me there with Mr. I ; we were both a bit silly from a round
of "dueling adjectives," and then the Colonel went to rescue
Kate from O'Hara (and herself) and then there I am, in trouble
once more. Poor Brandon, he feels he's been too harsh with
me, as if a chivalrous gentleman like him could ever be harsh
to a lady. But if we have any more like this--EVER--I'm trading
in the spaghetti-strap haute couture numbers . . . for plate
armor! BTW, Ellen--take all the time you need to think things
over, and may all happiness be yours. Please don't leave us
forever, okay? Hugs,
Mary Anne
USA - 06/11/97 at 17:52:50
Sorry I missed most of the party. That damned P.J. O'Hara was supposed to pick me up and he never showed. He gave me some lame excuse about the cycle breaking down, but I'm not sure I buy it. He looked vaguely guilty, standing by the bar, playing his little game of seeing how long he can participate in a conversation without speaking. It's very annoying, but most people don't even realize they're not hearing a reply-- they just prattle on. Anyway, while I was waiting in that cold garret, slightly
ill from the smell of turpentine, I decided to create a "detanator." I thought it should be tall and cool, with just a hint of bitters. Smooth but deadly. After a few unpotable mistakes, I came up with something very similar (read: identical) to a vodka tonic. The runner-up was hot buttered rum-- dark, warm and buttery, but seductively intoxicating. Oh dear. Well, here comes Mr. "Heroical, twice nightly," with a bunch of flowers and a string of pearls. I guess I can only be so angry, even if he did slip and call me Stella again. He makes a good cup of tea, and is always willing to lend me his coat.
Sandra <SYJackson@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/11/97 at 17:31:34
1) Nicole, I don't know which browser you use, but if you have problems with vision, you might want to try Internet Explorer which will allow you to change the size of the onscreen font. It will go up quite large.
Karina <karina@fred.netfoo>
USA - 06/11/97 at 17:19:14
Nicole: A troll is someone who comes into a chat room or a guestbook like this one and either makes rude or inappropriate comments or simply posts information that is no where's near related to the subject being discussed. For example, sometimes someone will post a message saying that AR is gay. That's a troll. A while back someone kept posting an ad for self-defense lessons. That person is a troll too. See what I mean? The person who posted claiming to actually be AR was not, IMHO, a troll. I think that if it was not AR, the person just wanted to catch our attention and play a little amusing joke. No one was insulted and it kinda gave us a little hope. Of course, if it was the Dear One, imagine how he feels! "Right, I finally show up and they don't beleive me". Ah, the price of fame Mr. Rickman!
Lisa
USA - 06/11/97 at 17:11:04
Well, I'm for a few days at the River Estate. Sinclair is devastated. He worked so hard to arrange all the catering. Then he found that, although everyone spoke well of him, nobody remembered to talk to him. Fortunately, I could listen to him complain forever.
Laurie <lreid@cga.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/11/97 at 16:55:30
*Hams* and the Sheriff, I kind of like that. Pour me some more champagne!
Renie
CA, USA - 06/11/97 at 16:05:26
Well, let me tell you first hand (hah!) Raz is a big man! We have been all over town in that cab and made it to the airport locker, got the mysterious contents, and were nabbed by the FBI and HMSS officers. The bomb squad went into action and...carefully...revealed...drinks!
Yes! The "detonators"!! Hans appeared from behind the ticket counter with a very sheepish looking Sheriff, taking bows and credit for the whole gag. It seems those troublemakers had cooked up some good-natured fun for this party game. Raz and I were released and Hams and the Sheriff got stern warnings, but all in all, everyone was so relieved that no one had been in any danger!
I can't believe the party has survived the raid and that the guests have tidied up. Mary Anne, dear, goodness, you've been in there all this time? What have you been doing? Don't answer that. You look much better but forget those spaghetti strap numbers next time. You need something more durable. We did pick you up a virtual bouquet to cheer
you up - here you go. Lisa, you should know better than to mix detonators and Merlot. I'm told you passed out in the rafters after a particularly prurient game of Scrabble - do you remember who you were playing with? Hans, dear, what a funny man you
are! Be a darling villian, would you, are take that knife away from the Interrogator, he's liable to incite a swordfight or pistol exchange, and the authorities will be upon us again.....(Breath)
Renie
CA, USA - 06/11/97 at 16:03:17
Hi Lisa. Sorry about the caps.I'm practically blind,
but I'll improvise. Not to be a pain in the butt
again,but what the hell is a troll?
Obviously, I'm a net dummy.
Nicole <Privatefoo>
Tampa, FL USA - 06/11/97 at 15:59:15
Oops! The italics don't turn of the way I thought. Looks like its remedial html for me... :-{
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/11/97 at 15:56:37
GREAT!!! I have this terrific experience and find out that everyone left before it happened. All I know is that as I was entering, someone handed me a drink. Maybe Raz spiked the madeira with an hallucinogen and I had a WONDERFUL trip. Maybe those
detonators are extremely powerful. Maybe Jamie and his friends felt sorry for me and brought the
"ghost" of the party. Oh, well...(heavy sigh)
Renie, as for being normal, I have found that it tends to go hand-in-hand with being boring... don't
regret your lack of normality.
Ellen, it sounds as though your reality has been harsher than anyone deserves. Thank you for allowing your fantasy to brighten my reality. You are stronger than most; your strength and courage have touched me deeply. We will keep you here in spirit, even if you decide that it is time to let go of the fantasy. You and your son will be in my thoughts. I hope that your birthday marks a joyous new beginning for you, and that the sun shines for you again. :-)
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/11/97 at 15:55:13
Nicole in Tampa: Hi! Um, uh, I don't know if anybody ever told you this, but if you TYPE IN CAPS like that, it's considered shouting. Normally I wouldn't criticize, it makes you seem so enthusiastic, but I've got this splitting hangover headache see...
Lisa
USA - 06/11/97 at 15:41:59
HEY GUYS! WHAT EXACTLY IS A TROLL? I DONT BELIEVE THIS
SUPPOSED "AR" CHRACTER. I'M NEW TO THIS SO, FORGIVE MY
IGNORANCE. ANYWAY, I'M SURE THE REAL AR IS TOO BUSY
TO EVEN KNOW WE EXIST.
NICOLE <PRIVATEfoo>
TAMPA, FL USA - 06/11/97 at 15:22:58
What an exquisite party! I must say that you all look dazzling - so sophisticated and graceful, yet somehow slightly wicked. Huzzah to those responsible for the lovely decorations, understated but elegant. The most impressive of all are SO MANY versions of "the face." It may not have launched a thousand ships, but it has certainly inspired the most creative web page (and, Mary Ann, Sandra, et al, the most creative fans) available on the net.
As the "new kid" in the Guestbook neighborhood, I stand apart, in awe of the presence of its legendary residents. While I stand here taking in all the breathtaking views, Mr. O'Hara approaches me and says "Good morrow, Kate---for that's your name I hear." In trying to resist his obvious charms, for I know
him to be inconstant, to put it politely, I quip that he must be hard of hearing as they do call me Katherine that do talk of me, but he will have none of it. He caught me in the lie and threw it in my face, declaring "You lie in faith for you are called plain Kate, and bonny Kate, and sometimes Kate the curst...." I must stop him before he becomes moved to woo me for his wife, I must interrupt. Although, in truth, I would enjoy being wooed (so long as that's not being rude to Elmer Fudd), I know that Mr. O'Hara's heart belongs to Stella Maris. I know that too long an exposure to such overwhelming magnetism will weaken my resistance to the breaking point. I must flee before embracing the promises of the insouciant charmer who would eventually break
my heart without a backward glance...
Ah, there is Colonel Brandon, next to Mary Ann. I shoot him a look of desperate pleading and he crosses the room to rescue me from O'Hara and myself. Would that his heart were not already pledged. Here is a man
to whom a woman could give her heart with no fear of its being broken by careless handling. Be careful, Colonel, the Interrogator has managed to get hold of a carving knife...
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/11/97 at 15:09:25
Emma: [grooaann] I WISH I KNEW! When/if my memory returns,
I'll let you know. I finally talked the Colonel into attributing
my behavior to my "impulsive sweetness of temperament," but
goodness, was he upset. He didn't even raise his voice, but . . .
oh, my. A rebuke from Col. Brandon is pretty dreadful. As for
you, Interrogator, back off! I'm armed--and taking shooting
lessons from Mr. Marston!
Mary Anne
USA - 06/11/97 at 14:16:38
Dear Mary Anne: I assure you, my only intent at the party
was to conduct a search for truth, in which I was your friend,
philosopher, and guide. Also, to everyone at the party: I seem
to have mislaid my briefcase. Anyone with information as to
its whereabouts (or who has concerns about missing toenails)
may call at one of our branch offices--they're everywhere in the
world--to discuss these matters. I give my word, you'll come to
no harm. But be discreet ; They're watching me, too.
Kindly, but, firmly--
Mr. I <inquisition.orgfoo>
everywhere, USA - 06/11/97 at 14:12:18
Me again!
Mary Anne, you're back? Pray tell us, just WHAT you've been
up to all this time?
Emma
USA - 06/11/97 at 14:06:34
For those of you who have not yet purchased your own copy of "An Awfully Big Adventure" - it is available at the unbelievably reasonable price of $9.99 through The Video Catalog (1-800-733-2232). Ask for item #49715. It's disgustingly opportunistic to admit that I purchased an Alan Rickman video at a discount. He's worth full price.
Jannsue <Jannsue@aol.comfoo>
OK USA - 06/11/97 at 13:55:30
Ellen , I'm sorry I did not read back before doing my very silly entries.
I admire your courage through these ordeals, and took the
liberty of adding your name to a prayer circle that prays for
healing. I hope you will soon find the help and support of
real people (not just us in cyberspace) that will help you reach
the hapiness and good fortune you have so painfully earned.
Emma
USA - 06/11/97 at 13:46:16
Ohhhhh, my head . . . no lunch for me this afternoon. I'll never
mix "detonators" and madeira again, especially not on a stomachful
of cucumber sandwiches. Thanks, Renie, for helping me into
that little room off the kitchen when I felt so ill. Of course,
you weren't to know that the Interrogator had set up shop in
there . . . WERE YOU?! When you left, the last thing I remember
is a pair of PIERCING eyes in the gloom--and then I woke up
this morning with Doc Mesmer and Col. Brandon standing by my bed.
Mesmer looked very grave, murmuring about "the possibility
of complete relapse" and Brandon is very upset. I know as soon
as the Doc leaves I'm in for a good talking-to about staying
out of trouble at parties. Better put on my meek, "thoroughly
unspoilt" demeanor and take my scolding like a brave girl.
Yes, sir . . . I promise . . . I'll be good . . .
Mary Anne
USA - 06/11/97 at 13:28:35
Ellen, I am hoping that your decision to leave us will not be a permanent one. You have been a major contributor to this guestbook and part of the magic that brings this thing to life. True, it's a fantasy life but it is a basic human need to seek an outlet for creativity and for the general madness that runs rampant in this world. Now, please understand that I do not mean to discount your feelings or your needs. I realize that there is more going on with you than I ever will know, but I am hoping that you will come to see that you are as much a part of our reality as we are of your fantasy. I also hope that you will quickly be able to separate your church and state, reality and fantasy and that when you have, there might be a little courtyard somewhere in between where we can all meet again. Until then, I wish you happiness and love and strength and all the great things that you deserve.
Lisa <pubdefrv.lwagner@co.riverside.ca.usfoo>
Riverside, CA USA - 06/11/97 at 12:41:36
Thank you Noel, I got a little help from Will S. on Jacques's
lines.
Emma
USA - 06/11/97 at 11:51:04
Third act
Emma: Raz and the girls sure are making a loud racket! Too bad
he looks so untidy, he seems to be such fun. But that hair, and
those clothes, that beard! Talk about a bad hair day!
Jacques: "And how oft did you say his beard was not well cut?
Emma: Uh, I dunno... Actually, it looks like a large group's dancing and singing.
Jacques: "There is, sure, another flood toward, and these
couples are coming to the ark"
Emma: What ark? We're at the Almeida, Jacques! Geez, you do like to
extemporize, do you?
Jacques: "I do love it better than laughling"
Emma: Well, I'm joining the conga line! Coming along?
Jacques: "So, to your pleasures: I am for other than for dancing measures.
Emma: As you like it, Jacques!
Emma
USA - 06/11/97 at 11:46:37
Ellen: I was very moved by your posting. You need to do
what is best for you but I hope you know you are always
welcome here--you are among friends. All the best, Noel
Emma: you have a natural ear for dialogue. I too feel like
it is the "morning after" a giddy night of fun. I haven't
got the hang of the IRC thing yet so I participated from afar.
It was a smashing soiree and well worth the sacrifice of my
lemon chiffon...
Noel
USA - 06/11/97 at 11:45:46
Damn, I knew I was going to be late for this party. I was just in time to see this funny little creature pointing a very long digit at Marston and asking "are you El - i - o - tt?" I wandered into the theatre which I thought was empty but then I spotted an oriental gentlemen, I think his name was Sei, looking longingly at the stage but seemed a bit nervous about something. Did he make it to the party? By the way ladies I feel very remiss at not warning you it's not a good idea to drive in Town. Even a certain actor of our 'acquaintance' who lives in London doesn't drive in this city.
Liz Anne
St Albans, England - 06/11/97 at 11:39:55
Whew! What a night huh? Those detonators are really good! I'm awake now, but I have a couple of questions...How did I get up in the rafters of this theatre? Why am I wearing underwear with Cyrillic writing on the label, and for gosh sakes, WHERE ARE MY
TOENAILS?!!!
Lisa
Riverside, CA USA - 06/11/97 at 11:02:45
Emma, eating hungrily from a plate: Jacques, this is great
food, have you tried the quiche yet?
Jaques: "Why, I have eat none yet"
Emma: When I go back for seconds I'll get you some.
Just then, George, Sherrif of Nottingham walks in.
Jaques stand up and introduces him: "This is the motley-minded
gentleman that I have so often met in the forest: he hath
been a courtier, he swears"
Emma: How do you do?
George, shaking hands with Emma: My pleasure (stares up and down at her, greedily)
Emma: Oh, I've heard about you. Weren't you involved in deer
hunting or something like that?
George, confused: Excuse me...Miss...
Jacques, raising his voice: "Which is he that killed the deer?
George looks around the room and moves on: Mnm, I must go...
Jacques: "Nay, then God be wi' you, and you talk in blank verse"
Emma: This man, seems to have disturbed you, you don't like him, do you?
Jacques: "A material fool!"
Emma: Well, what do you say we go and explore the place, do you
know anything about theater, the stage?
Jacques: "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players"
Emma: Would you like to show me around?
Jacques: "Go thou with me, and let me counsel you"
Emma
USA - 06/11/97 at 10:38:38
Emma rushes into the small room, trips a man walking past her,
and starts apologizing: Oh, I'm so sorry, are you OK,
did I ruin your suit? No, it looks fine, thank goodness.
Jacques: "It is my only suit"
Emma: I was trying to find a quiet spot away from all the sirens
and stuff, and also from that despicable Interrogator, you
look OK now. I don't like that Interrogator. (she brushes lightly his lapel with her hand)
Jacques: "And I have been all this day to avoid him. He is too
disputable for my company"
Emma: Well, we do seem to think alike! Excuse me, let me check my shoe,
I think i broke my heel in the rush, no, it's OK, I guess I'm
not used to high heels anymore. Which do you prefer, high heels
or low heels, I'm sorry, I didn't catch your name...
Jacques: Jaques
Emma: Call me Emma, so do you rather I wear high heels or flats?
What do you think of teal silk, does it look appropriate?
Jacques: "I do not desire you to please me"
Emma: Oh... unusual thing to say, but it has its own wisdom,
in a refreshing sort of way.
Jacques: "You have a nimble wit...Will you sit down with me?"
Emma: I thought you'd never ask!
Emma
USA - 06/11/97 at 09:17:00
I woke up this morning to visit the party site, feels a bit like the day after the night before...was it the detonators?
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, WA USA - 06/11/97 at 08:51:48
Ellen, I just read your last posting. Can you send me your e mail address? I have lots of things to tell you.
Alana- <sam@mix.itfoo>
USA - 06/11/97 at 02:59:12
Where did everybody go? HELLO...
George
England - 06/11/97 at 00:26:51
Goodbye, Ellen, we wish you the best of everything.
Renie
CA, USA - 06/11/97 at 00:24:47
I wrote, probably too much and lost the internet connection. and saved it but it didn't save it.. and that's a shame. I was applogizing and explaining. and there's no way I can call that beck to mind again. I have to go. I shoudn't even have ever been here. What is a nice respite for you is not for me anymore. I used alan to save my life in 1992. I did a quantum leap emotionally, I found out that the man I loved had molested my son. I was not allowed to love him anymore, so I found a safe and warm place to store my emotions.. while I healed. I I hate that it got lost on the internet. all that explaning.. my case.. if it were a case is far different than a movie star crush.. I learned so much from the walls that I borrowed to protect me because I had
no such walls.. I don't belong here. Trust me on that point. You think some of you were afraid to watch closetland.. ha.. I watched it when I was still going through court.. my parenthood was questioned by child protection who wanted to take my children away.. I went to court in the charactor of george and hans and elliot.. and I stood up and said "NO." and they listened to me. I learned that its a good thing and a fun thing to love ones self. that people who have a choice between good and bad and choose to be good are far better people than the ones that are just good and have no choice. that the seperation of church and state is the seperation between reality and fantasy and that there are safe places for every emotion and count less other things that.. well, I don't belong here and I have to go.
Ellen
USA - 06/11/97 at 00:19:41
Ann, this conversation in the theatre has an air of unquietude. Move over a bit and - wait, did you hear that? Sirens! Not a RAID! Oh dear. And we were being so good. What, Colonel? To what part of London? Heathrow - why? (whispers) Good God, the ticket is actually to a locker filled with...Hans is backstage laughing. The Almeida is filling with UK's finest. Sensible amidst the tumult, Brandon has gathered the others in an attempt to spread out and find Hans, or beat him to Heathrow. Everyone's going to have to split up with someone - to either find Hans or head for the airport. I absentmindedly picked up the ticket, which is actually #6001. Raz says he knows a shortcut, and if I trust him and God everything wil be "horosho" (good), he and I
are comandeering a cab, he's driving like a lunatic. What a party! The Sheriff is missing!
Renie
CA, USA - 06/11/97 at 00:18:42
Note to BC: The original recording of "The Sun Ain't Gonna
Shine Anymore" (the tune from TMD) is by the Walker
Brothers, and can be found on "Love Sixties", an anthology
from Warner Special Products (catalog # JCD3102) and
distributed by JCI, 5308 Derry Ave, Agoura Hills, CA 91301.
The courtesy credit lists Polygram Special Products--which
means that it's likely available in England through
Polygram. Probably more than any of you really wanted to
know. Ah, well--back to rewrites. Be well, y'all.
Mari
USA - 06/10/97 at 23:30:12
Having arrived a little later than is truly fashionable, I find a most amazing sight. George is reeling around waving his Spanish steel and slashing away at a young slender man in wrinkly tights who seems to be muttering in iambic pentameter, whilst desperately trying to defend himself from the onslaught. I quickly duck as a statue's head come flying my way. Raz is under the table with... is that... no it can't be.. Karina??.. What are you doing down there? You told me you were going to work on a new chat room. For shame!... Oh..What do you mean you ARE working on it?...Hmmm. Elliot is in the corner, mixing up some green minty smelling stuff and talking with an elegant looking gent who's turning the barbecue.. Oh no...Who let him near the grill?!!...Jamie is watching old movies again... I tiptoe over, trying to keep out of sight of the man with the barbecue spit in his hand, and realize Jamie is watching silent movies again, ah me... Oh there's Sinclair...Yooohooo... Sinclair...I hurry over.. Sinclair
is surrounded by loads of food, although the only thing he seems to have eaten is cucumber sandwiches...He smiles and offers me a bite of the last one. Just as I reach for it, a tall bearded man in a most elegant suit, walks up behind me and whispers in my ear " give me my detonators..." I can't understand this.I know I arrived in something of a hurry but I AM better dressed than the person with his detonaters ever was. I stare him straight in the eye..."I don't have your detonators.." He frowns. "I will
be a hostage if you like..." He smiles. "To the roof..." Oh dear and I thought this party was going to be fun... Well maybe he just wants to show me the view... I take his arm and he we begin to walk towards the stairs when,... who's this? a tall clean-shaven man coming towards us. He rushes up, takes my other arm and steers me away. "Miss Dashwood... Here is a new piano piece I would like you to try out.." I walk towards the Broadwood Grand and sit on the piano stool. My foot hits something. I look under the piano. Why, it's Ed painting little birds on the underside of the Colonel's piano! He grins and waves half a sandwich in my direction. I decline as I still have the cucumber one Sinclair gave me. He shrugs and goes back to drawing. I realize I have
arrived too late to see Mesmer. He's left already. The party is winding down, Dennis has left too. He was cold without his clothes and he was worried about anyone finding his plants. Obadiah is in the corner talking with a young lady. Something has been done with his hair, it looks less greasy. I murmer my apologies to the Colonel, who bows gracefully, and I slip into the theatre to see if anything is going on there. As I approach the stage I make out several figures, all strikingly similar in looks, engaged in deep conversation. I climb onto the stage and walk over to the group. One of them, rises to his feet and makes room in the circle. We all sit back down and the conversation picks up again. I look round at the people. Ah heaven! They all are so handsome!! I think I'll sit here for a while. Anne
Anne <Ahard73977@aol.comfoo>
Alex., VA USA - 06/10/97 at 23:14:32
I'm sorry, I followed you. Who is that idiot making drinks called detonators? I should blow him up. I came because I thought you were in trouble. And now that I am here I can see.. that you are. First of all you shouldn't be here. I warned you about this internet. Here you are slumming with this.. really, there is a seperation, not unlike church and state, called reality and fantasy..and where do I find you? Sherman! Have we not had this conversation? "yeah well, not in front of everyone..you're here
to take me home?" In a couple of words, yes. "These are my friends.. this is a party and Thursday's my birthday.." Do we have to go back to the conversation about good and bad? "no, I know what's good and bad for me.. but these people understand.. they all have.. they are responsible, they have jobs.. they.. have real lives! and so do I.." Charles holds Ellens face in his hands..those hands.. "Look, we shouldn't be here. This is a public place.. a point in time that even your friend maxine avoids.. and why? Because it's not productive. Your idea for a liberal, art oriented paper for your town that accepts no paid advertising.. now that's productive.. saving the Tesla building.. that was brilliant! But this.. however nice they all are, and they are.. this
is not good for you. " That's why I'm giving up my tapes.. I'm trying, I am. But I love... I do love.." Loving is good, but time.. Sherman, time is of the essecence.. the dog has to go out, your daughter wants to use the phone.. laundry.. dishes.. and you
know the real reason and always have.. "I have to go guys. My ride is here. I won't be back.. it isn't good, and to quote Ghostbusters.. we are clear on the good, bad thing. Maybe I had one beer too many at the pub. I can't do this anymore. It was never
a game for me. I was serious. I am in love. And that's not good. E
bung
Purto Villa, Brazil - 06/10/97 at 22:35:36
I'm sorry, I followed you. Who is that idiot making drinks called detonators? I should blow him up. I came because I thought you were in trouble. And now that I am here I can see.. that you are. First of all you shouldn't be here. I warned you about this internet. Here you are slumming with this.. really, there is a seperation, not unlike church and state, called reality and fantasy..and where do I find you? Sherman! Have we not had this conversation? "yeah well, not in front of everyone..you're here
to take me home?" In a couple of words, yes. "These are my friends.. this is a party and Thursday's my birthday.." Do we have to go back to the conversation about good and bad? "no, I know what's good and bad for me.. but these people understand.. they all have.. they are responsible, they have jobs.. they.. have real lives! and so do I.." Charles holds Ellens face in his hands..those hands.. "Look, we shouldn't be here. This is a public place.. a point in time that even your friend maxine avoids.. and why? Because it's not productive. Your idea for a liberal, art oriented paper for your town that accepts no paid advertising.. now that's productive.. saving the Tesla building.. that was brilliant! But this.. however nice they all are, and they are.. this
is not good for you. " That's why I'm giving up my tapes.. I'm trying, I am. But I love... I do love.." Loving is good, but time.. Sherman, time is of the essecence.. the dog has to go out, your daughter wants to use the phone.. laundry.. dishes.. and you
know the real reason and always have.. "I have to go guys. My ride is here. I won't be back.. it isn't good, and to quote Ghostbusters.. we are clear on the good, bad thing. Maybe I had one beer too many at the pub. I can't do this anymore. It was never
a game for me. I was serious. I am in love. And that's not good. E
Charles Norton
Purto Villa, Brazil - 06/10/97 at 22:28:20
No wait, don't eat it yet! We've got to sing! Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday dear Ellennnnnn, Happy Birthday to You!
NOW, make a *wish* ;-) and blow....
Renie
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 22:07:05
Ed, you've used up all the icing on my cake with face paintings.. its okay, really, you're so sweet. I wonder if we can cut it now though.. George hates me. The guy in black over there, past .. oh my there's maxine! I've got to go get Elliot! Go ahead,
eat the cake.
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 21:54:52
Rebecca, what a lovely name. Do you know that woman over there with the black dress? She called me a cartoon charactor! What are you doing around 12:15?
George
England - 06/10/97 at 21:49:03
Apologies to all. I can not seem to spell anything tonight! =(
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/10/97 at 21:42:52
Whew...go to have a little movie break with the guys (they're nice aren't they?)
and I go and miss everything. Glad to see you're not all in black. if fact there is quite an array of colors here. I see Raz is living it up. And it looks as tho George is as well. Thsoe eyes of his
have mischeif in them...and they're headed my way. BTW, Karina the chat room would be a fantastic idea. Then
we could have parties all the time without cluttering up the guestbook! Please do!
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/10/97 at 21:39:48
George, look, I may be among many, its true, but I am the only one, the only one here who's house was distroyed by a tornado on your birthday. I saved an important historic building for you! I know there's no room for me.. 9:28..you have another scheduled at 9:30, 9:45..etc. But I'm the real deal. (said in Bruce Willis's voice dispite myself) Collectivly, we may all be charming, lovely, brilliant..and far more than any other fictional charactor ever had. (I'm sorry I brought up the fictional, but you are behaving badly) I love you. I neamed my cat Locksley so I could call him in your voice. Point me twords danger, I'm ready! George looked at the floor for a moment before replying.. "I don't know what to say. You present a ...I came here to have fun. There are lots of.. look over there, that fellow in the robe.. with the flower in his teeth.. I'm sure he would.." "George, you sound like Dwight! Fine, I'll go see Raz.. no problem.. you know, I loved you first,and I thought that .. never mind what I thought. Charles was right, you are a cartoon charactor!" Ellen goes over to Raz who is dancing with 3 women and singing at the top of his voice.
ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 21:32:24
Dear me! Such goings on! I think I am a bit more than
"fashionably late" but here I am none-the-less. As for my
detainment as I entered the party. Raz, whilst dancing the
"can can" on the table inadvertently flung some madeira on
my lemon chiffon. Off to the ladie's room went I were I was
assailed by sounds of heart-rending weeping. When I asked if
there was any thing I could do (smelling salts? tea? laudenum?)
a charming lady, a Mrs. Jennings, bent my ear for some time
with a story of two sisters...well I'm sure you have heard
it all by now. I will now hasten to find a Col. Brandon to
see if he can provide assistance. I've heard that if left idle
for too long he has a tendency to "run mad!" Although it
sounds as if that is what you lot are doing. Disclaimers and
all. It is a swell party with the lovliest, most intelligently
humorous guest list! Not to mention one very special guest.
If "AR" is indeed the real McCoy please take all of this as
a very large compliment and thank you for all you are and all
you have given to us. No, Mr. I. I've heard that club soda
will take stains right out and I don't think you have club
soda in your thermos. Thank you all the same and no I am
not being "subversive"! TMD to you all. I will be smiling
all day tomorrow!!
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/10/97 at 21:32:22
Ellen, you're next. What's this you need to talk to me about.
Care to step into this room for a minute while we, ahem, talk this
over? There we go (ushering her thru the doorway)...what is that crazy contraption
running down the back of your dress? Zipper, you say? Ahhh, how does one
work it?
George, Sherrif of Nottingham
England - 06/10/97 at 21:31:44
Oooooh, edible face paint?!!
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, Wa USA - 06/10/97 at 21:31:42
Whew! Finally made it to London for the first time, quite the place! Glad to see the party getting into full swing. Didn't go for black myself, my gold lame' number sets off Brandon's braid and buttons beautifully. It kind of brightens those golden
eyes too, they seem brighter when gazing at me anyway...Uh oh, Hans is eyeing the gold a bit greedily.
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, WA USA - 06/10/97 at 21:24:13
Ellen, you silly woman! Control - hah! And someone else is wearing red? WHO??? Face painting with icing?
Renie
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 21:21:01
The men are all smirking, and someone (who was it?) has suggested that the disclaimer sign should be used as a list of party games/things to do. Good God! I need to...powder my nose. And that food looks delicious - great idea to have it catered by friends of Sinclair. I may grab a plate with Hans, who wants to introduce me to - his brother! I love England!
Renie
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 21:18:32
Rene, Maxine was afraid of meeting Elliot, I thought that when George saw me that he'd fall madly in love with me.. but he's in that alcove over there with some woman in a red dress.. that's okay with me but.. 11:15..Oh! Ed's doing face painting over by my cake. Where's Han's? I wish I had let Charles Norton come.. I told him he couldn't come because you all didn't know him and he sulked. And when a Pices sulks it does bring half the world out of alignment.. but.. I cna't believe George is doing this!
I actually thought I could control him.
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 21:17:28
Look, George, here's the thing, I've been in love with you..Madly Truly Deeply for..800 years now and I don't care if this bakery ticket says 601 or 6,001. You need me. You're a mess. You have no clue how to ..put that spoon down! Spoons have not even
been invented yet as far as you know..No I will not wait my turn at 11:15 pm! I only want to talk to you.. well that's a lie. I admit. Are those laces? hmmm. No I will not stand look out while you go in there.. with her.. oh come on!
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 21:09:36
Off-party: I doubt it was AR, since the address was "No Way"; I assumed we should take it only in jest. But we can dream!
Back to the party: (choke) Hans, dear, what is *in* this drink? A secret, no I don't think so - Hey do you guys share your
pick-up lines or something? Ellen, nice to see you looking lovely in your black dress. Is the ticket for a drawing? Our raffle? Goodness, the men who are arriving are so wonderful, I may just wish that no one else comes but us!
Renie
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 21:04:59
Maxine, the impolitic cruelity of taking Obed off like that and disapearing into the night. I wanted you with me in case George rejected me.. oh my..Here I go!
again me
USA - 06/10/97 at 21:02:41
Good gracious Karina, don't you know there is a party going on? Rebecca, who is that girl talking to George?
ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 21:00:17
Stuff
1) I have no idea if that was truly Mr. Rickman or not. Aside from that note in the guestbook, I have had no contact from anyone saying they were him.
Karina <karina@fred.netfoo>
USA - 06/10/97 at 20:54:57
I'm back, Oh, there's George over there with..who is that girl? Do we know her? I'm going over there now. I missed Max! Yes, there's my cake, you dear. But Elliot is here, oh my, no introductions tonight I see. "Elliot, be a dear and get me a beer." "George, Sheriff of Nottingham, I am your humble servant, and most ardent admirer." George looks at me and hands me a bakery ticket. Number 601.. what's this?
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 20:54:24
I love the disclaimer. Sorry to be a bit late! I was taking the turbo-bus from the aeroport and was still trying to stuff myself into this dress (I was a bit over-optimistic when I bought it yesterday) literally dressing outside in the alley (you never know who you're gonna meet out here) and who's voice sang out, "Would you care for some help? I am somewhat of an expert with ladies' fashions as well as men's" - Hans! Dear! He zipped me up and turned me round to check the fit. Wordlessly, he took
my arm and well, here we are! And I've been thinking about Brandon all day! Lisa, Hans is making me his specialty drink - something he calls a "detonator." Care to try one too?
And I dunno, who is a big fat idiot?
Renie
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 20:37:01
Well all, its been a pleasant evening...however, I'm being summoned by Jamie's lot to watch Sense and Sensibility. Have fun all, we may emerge later...
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/10/97 at 20:36:17
I feel a little coy, but I will come to the party... and just stay a few minutes; long enough to check if Obadiah is there. I'd like to get him to the nearest bathroom and wash the grease out of his hair, fluff it up like Franz Anton's and take him for a long walk. If Elliott is there, I will be terribly embarrassed... but I think Obadiah is still young enough to change his personality a little. Don't expect me (and Obadiah) back at the party anytime soon. Have fun folks!`
Maxine <mrose@pawneenet.comfoo>
Greeley, CO USA - 06/10/97 at 20:33:15
Lisa, you're priceless. I, too, drove here on the wrong side of the street.
Very peculiar...these London streets. At least we've all made it in one piece.
Ellen did leave briefly to attend to some mysterious business. She did promise to return with some
surprises tho...
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/10/97 at 20:31:03
WOW! That disclaimer is really big! I wonder what goofball did that? (OK, the first party game for the evening, "Guess Who's a Big Fat Idiot")
Lisa
Riverside, CA USA - 06/10/97 at 20:23:02
With pleasure Ellen, dear, we shall see you within the hour.
Elliot, shall we go and listen to the music for a bit?
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/10/97 at 20:16:21
"The resemblence, though uncanny is only skin deep, I asure you." Elliot kisses Rebecca's hand. "Um, Rebecca, I'm in a bit of a quandry, I have to leave for about one half hour, George did not come with me.. He doesn't even know me yet. I will be right
back..by 9pm EST..would you keep an eye out for George?"
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 20:14:05
Ellen, Not here yet!? What could be keeping him? I thought he was coming
with yourself? Isn't Jamie's music beautiful? Elliot, how do you do? I'm very pleased to meet
you tho I sware I've never laid eyes on you before tonight..you do bear a
striking resemblance to the rest of the malefolk herebouts....
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/10/97 at 20:10:12
Sorry I gave you 2 b's..you could sell one, I know normally people only buy vowles.
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 20:05:02
Rebbeca, darling, George isn't here yet. This is Elliot Marsten, Elliot, Rebbeca.
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 20:03:40
Evenin' ladies and gents (or should I say rogues?) Barring the Colonel, Jamie, and Dev,
that's what we've got here. Where is George?! He's a guy I have, to see.
I think I'll step inside for a sip of tea. I hear Jamie tuning up his cello. Good grief why is
everyone in black? How odd........
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/10/97 at 19:58:35
Oh, there's Elliot! What'll I say? No time to think..
"Elliot Marsten, how good of you to come."
"Ellen Sherman, from the USA..you're my second favorite Rickman charactor."
"Second favorite?" He's looking at me.. WHERE IS EVERYONE??? "I adore that hat." ( oh, great thing to say) "It was made in your country..Dodge City, do you know it?" "No..I mean I know of it.." "Pity." "We should go in. My friend Maxine, who will be here,
she lives not far from Dodge City, she adores you." "Really?"
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 19:51:02
Whoa, I can take off my glasses..that's good because George would probably ask what they were anyway. Shall I call my State Farm agent and see if my home owners covers spoon injuries? I can see George now.."But your honor, we were only spooning.." I brought the rope.
Ellen Sherman
USA - 06/10/97 at 19:39:04
YOUR ATTENTION PLEASE!
God help us <I hope the insurance covers this>
Islington, UK - 06/10/97 at 19:30:25
Oh, I get it now..(maybe I am mentally suited for George) 5 pm pacific..8 pm eastern standard time.. oh what a fool I am.. still. I suppose that goes without comment. You poor people still at work on the west coast. How can they expect you to work now?
Isn't it strange that wonderfully fantastick, truly eligable men have not discovered our site as a source for charming, intelligent women? Probably intimadated by the competition. We'll I'm not standing out here on the street for three hours! And I won't
drive on the left hand side of the road, I keep thinking people comming around corners are going to hit my car. I'm sorry I rented it! George probably doesn't drive. My birthday's day after tomorrow, if Maxine shows up, she's so thoughtfull, I think there will be a birthday cake, and we had another birthday last week in our group..Oh..I'll go back to the pub..it's very noisey though..darts flying everywhere..
Ellen Sherman
USA - 06/10/97 at 19:20:45
Okay, I'm not late, I thought it was at 5 pm, but there's no one here, good, at least George won't be poking anyone with Spanish steel before I get there. No pun, I sincerely meant that, so there's time for me to nick off and e mail Maxine and convince
her that even though she does not go to parties very often that I'm sure that she'll have fun here. (Elliot is her favorite) I have to confess, although it shows dramatic lack of breeding and good sense I love George the most. Sinclair probably runs second..for the river being full of corpses remark..I'm so early, the streets are empty..everyone's gone home from work and no ones out for the evening yet. I'm afraid though that if George gets into a duel or something I might have to defend him..after all
he drools when he's wounded, so messy. And I did borrow this dress. Does anyone know the layout of the party site? Oh, there's a pub open up the street, think I'll have a beer and go e mail maxine.
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 18:58:53
Emma - No! It ain't so! His eyes are not sooty, obscure or murky. (Although AR himself sometimes has that dusky quality (Raz!)) - AR's eyes have been fulgent at times, though.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 18:45:05
I *can't* believe it. The one time I unplug this #$%^$%$^%$ thing, and who shows up. Come to the party AR! Only two hours to go! (Working feverishly.)
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 18:15:22
"A.R."?!?! [Mary Anne pushes herself away from the computer
and take several deeeep breaths] There, that's better. Hmmm.
If you are a practical joker, there are worse pranks you could
play ; at least this one really is amusing. However, if this
is the real thing: greetings, Mr. Rickman, and join in with
us anytime. You've brought a lot of enjoyment to our lives, and
I hope we've added some to yours as well. Meanwhile, on with
the party! My, Colonel Brandon, you look simply devastating
in that uniform. Shall we be on our way?
Mary Anne
USA - 06/10/97 at 18:04:39
Well, what do you think we DO all day when we're not in the field? We are roaming the internet for subversives. Now, what's all this then about Heathrow? I'm going to have to ring up Tony B. about this.
Not Agent Mulder <FBI.comfoo>
Washington, DC USA - 06/10/97 at 17:51:55
I think the getup du jour should be the one with the demonstrated record of success, i.e., whatever Ann of Ann Arbor wore to the Almeida that arrested the gaze of both Rickman AND Fiennes.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/10/97 at 17:27:26
Good day lovely ladies and (I hope) gentlemen,
I nearly had heart failure when I read the posting from A.R. No way to tell whether it's real, but I like the idea of THE A.R. considering us "priceless." I guess it's true, since none of us would charge him a cent for ANYTHING.
I, too, hope that the bash will last a while since the only time I can use the web is after work, but before the office gets locked up. As I am built along the lines of Mrs. Jenings, I will be wearing the figure that I had in college covered by a deep burgundy Thai silk. The benefits of virtual parties are almost limitless. ;-) See you all at the Theatre.
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/10/97 at 17:26:59
Loved you in
redley <TG-FV.BUTLER@WORLDNET.ATT.NETfoo>
USA - 06/10/97 at 15:48:15
Well I see we have "A.R." checking out the website. If
you are the real deal A.R., welcome to the party, come on over
here and sit on my lap. If your a troll, hey at least you
perked up my day.;)
Dee Korbel <deek@garnet.berkeley.edufoo>
Berkeley, CA USA - 06/10/97 at 15:33:36
For anyone inclined to a little idle shopping while waiting for the bus to Islington, the US distributor of The Preacher (from Peter Barnes's Revolutionary Witness about the French Revolution) has a new address. You can contact Coronet at
2349 Chaffee Drive in St. Louis, MO 63146 USA, call them at (800) 221-1274, or FAX them at (314) 569-2834. Ask for Laura Gruenloh. The tape is number 61383 and costs (are you sitting?) US $79 plus shipping. But! there's no Bruce or Kevin or Liam in the way.
Melissa <masmith@law.harvard.edufoo>
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/10/97 at 15:25:36
Just think what would happen if an FBI web-crawler
hit this site because of the mention of Heathrow.
The British cops would gather outside of the Almeida
wine bar this evening to see who the terrorists are
that are showing up for the party. :-)
Chris <ckwible@ptd.netfoo>
NJ USA - 06/10/97 at 14:37:33
You women are priceless! And YES! I do indeed know
about you now! It's very flattering. Thank you!
A.R. <NO WAYfoo>
SOMEWHERE, ENGLAND - 06/10/97 at 14:25:05
OK, so I'm standing here steaming the wrinkles out of my black silk and lace cocktail dress and I'm thinking "How am I gonna keep up with all these wordsmiths?". I'm gonna be the first woman ever to show up at a party with an Oxford English dictionary
crammed into her handbag. I'd better just throw on an old dress, my babushka, and crawl into a bottle of Madeira with Raz. (Raz! Hee, hee, hee. That's still so cool).
Lisa
Riverside, CA USA - 06/10/97 at 14:21:14
That is, fuliginous!
Double ha!
Emma
USA - 06/10/97 at 13:59:42
Fulginious! Ha!
Emma
USA - 06/10/97 at 13:58:02
Minatory! I had to look that one up! Mary Anne, stop, stop, you're killing me! I have got to get some work done or I'm gonna be *late* for the party. Don't sidetrack me now! Ok - pious, hypocritical, seductive, withering, imploring, forgiving, fulgurous....
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 13:48:50
Just thought I'd share this -- on Sunday afternoon I had just gotten into my car (in a terrible mood, I might add) when I turned on the radio and suddenly heard the "sun ain't gonna shine anymore" tune from TMD. I just caught the end, and didn't even
get the artist's name. But needless to say, I had a mental image of Jamie singing and I was in a much better mood the rest of the day. I'd never heard the actual song before.
BC
Washington, DC USA - 06/10/97 at 13:46:28
My dear Renie, how kind of you to be so concerned about me. One
of the things I like about this page--we take such care of each
other. No, I have not "run mad" ; how could I, when I already
AM? [Fiendish chuckles] If you don't favor "piercing," there
are plenty of other adjectives for those eyes ; we have seen
them be, by turns, melting, languid, amused, inquiring, penetrating,
smoldering (mmmm . . . really love that one), minatory, chilling,
inexorable, merciless, pitying, sorrowful, tender . . . I had
really better stop now or I shall indeed run mad, and take some
others with me, no doubt. As for the party--look for me in a
long black "column" number with little spaghetti shoulder-straps
(I do have nice shoulders and a long neck ; I'm a show-off, so sue
me). And Colonel Brandon has promised to look after me in case
the Unholy Three show up. Awfully decent of him. See all of
you there!
Mary Anne
USA - 06/10/97 at 13:19:15
Goodness yes, Ellen, I suppose I should've winked after I jokingly inquired about what sort of people we *were* and tying up the Sheriff. After all, I come to him (gee, I like that) for his sensitivity and edge.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 12:46:37
OK! NICK CHECKING IN HERE! QUESTION. ARE THERE ANY MALE
FANS ROAMING AROUND,OR IS THIS JUST A GIRL THING?
NO BIG DEAL,JUST ASKING. MY HUSBAND IS A HUGE FAN TOO!
SEE YA!
NICOLE <PRIVATEfoo>
TAMPA, FL USA - 06/10/97 at 11:38:35
More items for the party,
resin for Sherlock's violin bow
a life jacket for Ferdinand (of The Tempest), and a towel
cucumber slices and soothing eyedrops for Mesmer"s lovely eyes.
I have this lovely simple teal dress that I haven't worn in a while,
do you think it'll look good? Don't want to overdress...
Emma
USA - 06/10/97 at 09:43:11
There seemed to be some kind of security altert around Heathrow Airport this morning - do you think the authorities of got wind of a couple of troublemakers who are flying in today for a certain bash?
Liz Anne
St Albans, England - 06/10/97 at 07:56:25
Wait! 5pm, you people have to get computers at home. I don't get out of work till 6 and then there's the drive.. I'll be there but I'll be late. So somebody watch George for me until I get there.. I'll see you at 6:30 ish.. I was supposed to tidy up tonight.. (that phrase almost makes the whole idea of cleaning a house seem like a much smaller and managable task.. "tidy-up" that can't take more than 3 monutes at the most..)
I'm going to wear a black dress with black ballet slippers that tie all the way up to the knee. Someone let George know that I'll be late, he such a baby, he'll probably think that I'm not comming.. perhaps Mary Ann might tell him for me?
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 06:56:01
that was "I think some of them could be decorations.." its early, way too early and I neeed COFFEE!!!
ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 06:48:35
Well I'm not sure about anyone else, but that is by definition, exactly the sort of person that I am. Who in their right mind would not wish to tie up several of these charactors? Loose, you saw first hand (or was that Hans?) the chaos that insued at
the last party. I like some of them could be decorations.. no, I'm sort of kidding, its early in the morning. As I've maintained from the start there are those who came here via Brandon and they are a different ...ilk than those who came via, George, Hans, Elliot..and you call him the interagator.. I've always refered to him as "What's His Name.."
I don't think Alan visits this page.. Nice fantasy though..
Ellen
Ellen
USA - 06/10/97 at 06:47:17
Mary Anne, dearest, you have finally run *mad*. (PIERCING eyes? Here? Perhaps, just perhaps, you have been watching or thinking about CL too much?) And tying up the Sheriff? Just what sort of people are we? And what will he think?
Sorry, it's almost 2 am. This party's at the Almeida Wine Bar, right? Did the invitation say tonight, June 10, 5:00 pm U.S. Pacific time/8:00 pm. Eastern Standard Time? I'm packing now, and I'm wearing RED.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/10/97 at 04:56:46
greatest actor these days?
Anne Millicent Fern Pritchard
Whitehorse, Canada - 06/09/97 at 23:40:48
Well, all this talk about party favors, what about our dear Dev? What creative thing should we give him, and what might he give to an auction, a copy of a treaty? Frankly I'd love to see him in that fancy hat again, the one he was disguised in after he
escaped! And what about the good Doc M? A nice velvet cloak or some kind of scientific tome about hypnosis? BTW, "Raz" is a lovely name!
Pam <bagdzinski@worldnet.att.netfoo>
NJ USA - 06/09/97 at 22:51:28
DAGGI -- wishing you a TMD wonderful birthday! Letter & goodies are on their way.
Nancy R.
CA USA - 06/09/97 at 18:06:10
To Susan in Nashville: I haven't seen *Mesmer* but I can fill
you in on *Closet Land*. In my opinion (and I'm sure others
will have different ones, which is fine), AR's performance in
this is his best film work ever. Brilliant. But excruciating.
Briefly, he plays a sinister interrogator in a totalitarian state
(tantalizingly left undescribed for the viewers). His victim is
a young woman who is an author of children's books (she's played
by Madeleine Stowe). He tried to get her to confess that her
books have "subversive" elements ; she insists they do not, and
a battle of wills commences--he tries everything, and I do mean
EVERYTHING, to break her will. It's petrifying to watch, a
graphic though allegorical presentation of what political prisoners
suffer every day. Rickman is a nightmare creature, but as usual,
he brings such humanity to his villainy that it's hard to hate
him outright. As for finding CL, I've found it at Blockbuster
Video. Special order it if you have to, but don't miss it. One
caveat: don't watch it at night, and especially not ALONE!
And another message to Ellen (I think it was): love to see
the Sheriff tied up? Mmmmm . . . and I thought I was the only
kinky person in this bunch. Silly me! 8-)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/09/97 at 17:52:48
Reading some of the older guestbook entries,
I came across accounts of the Almeida Benefit.
Thanks to all for the info. Especially happy to
know that Nina and Jamie's last scene together
from TMD was presented.
Andrea
LI, NY USA - 06/09/97 at 17:28:07
Nichole....click on the FAQ on the top of this page for the
address of his agent. We post no home address for him.
Chris <ckwible@ptd.netfoo>
NJ USA - 06/09/97 at 16:44:51
FIALLY!I HAVE FOUND PEOPLE WITH MY SAME ILLNESS!
I HAVE BEEN A LONG TIME FAN OFA.R. FUNNY,I THOUGHT
I WAS THE ONLY ONE. GLAD TO KNOW I'M NOT ALONE.
IT'S NOT LIKE I WOULD MAIL MY UNDERWEAR TO HIS HOUSE.
WELL, MAYBE. JUST KIDDING. I'D LIKE TO KNOW HOW TO
WRITE A LETTER OF APPRECIATION TO HIM. ANYBODY KNOW?
THANKS FOR LETTING ME CHAT. SEE YA.
NICOLE L.
TAMPA,FL
NICOLE L. <PRIVATEfoo>
TAMPA, FL USA - 06/09/97 at 15:24:52
RE: Collectibles. There's a Sheriff of Nottingham
designer-style nutcracker (17") on the market. About
$200, and fiercely adorable.
R. Faey
USA - 06/09/97 at 15:20:56
Party favors: A designated smoking section for Jacques
Roux, who likes his pipe ("There's nothing better. Except
making love, or making a revolution.")
R. Faey
USA - 06/09/97 at 15:17:26
Emma - love the new nickname for Father Gregori, Raz! I can hardly wait for the upcoming party, but let's not forget some kind of party favor for Lukas Hart III. It may be kinda hard to find something for such a pious individual ;-) maybe some candles
and a rosary? Or just ask Obadiah to choose something since they're about equal in their sincerity where religion is concerned.
Lisa <pubdefrv.lwagner@co.riverside.ca.usfoo>
Riverside, CA USA - 06/09/97 at 12:35:36
Hello all! Now that we aren't in a state of anticipatory
anxiety over whether or not AR will be on The Ruby Wax Show,
there was a mention of his name in the Post review (t.v.
supplement.) It says that she has lived in England for about
20 years after she "ran away" from Chicago to study acting
at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. From there
she performed with the RSC, did years of stage work, and wrote
and performed in shows with other RSC actors including Zoe
Wannamaker, Alan Rickman and Jonathan Pryce. That's it except
that Wax is her real name (Austrian), she is married with
three children. The show got good reviews and is on tonight
at 8:30 on the Comedy Channel. Cheers to all. For those
who requested the xerox of AR and JS, I will mail them out
this week--promise! Although it cannot compare to the "hands"
photo. I agree with Mary Anne, the cello is very lucky
indeed!!
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/09/97 at 10:26:49
Picking up on Mari's suggestion, anyone who wants to see three
serious, excellent movies must see Mephisto, Colonel Redl, and
Hanussen with Brandauer. These are a trilogy, and when I get
around to making my own website will hope to have a section for their
discussion. I always thought Out of Africa should have Brandauer
as the lover instead of the husband.
I also like Rutger Hauer, the Dutch actor who was in Bladerunner
(another movie I liked), and in Ladyhawk with Leo McKern.
Emma
USA - 06/09/97 at 10:11:50
Ah, Renie, of course I forgive you--just sorry I didn't think
of it first! 8-) And if you value your peace of mind,please,
leave that thermos alone! Brrrr . . . Quick comment: I note
that Danny in Tel Aviv (Shalom, Danny!) addressed his comments
on this page to AR personally. Doesn't it sort of make you wonder
if he ever reads this page himself? Have any of you ever felt,
while posting your comments, that you were being watched? That
a pair of PIERCING eyes had turned its full glare upon you . . .?
(Gulp) Just in case: Hello, Mr. Rickman. Hope you're amused
and entertained, not offended. Just take these posts as a tribute
to the skill, talent, and charm you bring to your chosen
profession. With warmest admiration,
Mary Anne
USA - 06/09/97 at 09:28:03
FYI: Judy Hofflund, if I'm not mistaken, is his manager in
the U.S...signficant, but not a Signficant Other. And, since
good actorial sparring partners are hard to come by, why not
Klaus Maria Brandauer--who is certainly one of the finest
actors in any language (see "Colonel Redl", "Mephisto",--the
dubbed versions, please--or "The Burning Secret".) Or, for
that matter, the exquisite Rosemary Harris.
Mari
USA - 06/08/97 at 23:02:30
I come to the Reverend's defence. Yes he is ambitious, deceitful,
and mercenary. But so is Mrs Proudy, the 'good' archdeacon
and his wife. The difference being that Obadiah is transparently
so, where the others are highly skilled in disguising their
motivations within the social morees of the time. They have been
born and educated in a ruling class where they know exactly
how 'far they can go' without over stepping the bounds of
propriety. Obadiah, on the other hand, is a 'working class'
boy 'made good' insensitive to the subtleties of more genteel
behaviour. Even the ideal Mrs Bold expresses the rampant snobbery
against Obadiah when she talks about him changing his name from
'Slop' to 'Slope' (who wouldn't?). I like Obadiah. Rather than
the villain, I think he is the victim of the piece. I'll don
widow's weaves and sit next to Obadiah at the party.
Stephanie <fewings@satech.net.aufoo>
Adelaide, SA Australia - 06/08/97 at 19:52:25
I am currently watching "Sense & Sensibility". You shall DEFINITELY find me sticking close to Colonel Brandon at this party! What a wonderfully sweet and sexy man! If I get the chance to be alone with him...
Michelle <MBushmire@aol.comfoo>
Pittsburgh, PA USA - 06/08/97 at 01:56:05
What I know: hope i'm not being redundant. my modem is weary and even typing is slow. AR learned to ride for "quigley" but said sadly all his horse scenes were cut. (he proved he can ride in S&S, however; i ride, so i notice such things... colin firth rides REAL well; check out one particular scene in "nostromo" ...but i digress...) at emmy's that apparent was S.O. Judith Hofflund at his side. she kept her distance during the press red carpet entrance, i noticed. she ran for parliament a couple of
years ago; never heard if she won; assume not. noticed during "golden globes" he lastly mentioned "the incomparable Judy Hofflund" in his thanks. can't wait for "winter guest" wrote AND directed. must've gotten on well with emma t. during S&S. one other tidbit in bruce willis' favor (there are so few). in a not-so-long-ago invue, he said AR made die hard a success and should at least have been nominated for best supporting. cheers! kate
Kate <katebak@aol.comfoo>
Sherman Oaks, ca USA - 06/07/97 at 21:43:27
Probably the most seductive voice in film and theatre today - sandpaper on black velvet!
Marion Aston <marion@marst.demon.co.ukfoo>
Oakham, England - 06/07/97 at 19:47:51
Socks, coat, & thermal undies are a good idea for Jamie, but he's sooooo cold I wonder if they'll be enough. I volunteer to do whatever I can to keep him warm at the party...
Deb A. <maalbers@unisereve.comfoo>
Sardis, BC Canada - 06/07/97 at 18:09:21
Good news, just received The Video Catalog and "An Awfully Big Adventure" is available and on sale for $9.99. The telephone number is 1-800-733-2232. I almost told the order entry operator to stock up because I had a feeling there would be a big demand for this item very shortly :) (BTW, it is item #49715.) I have not been able to locate this video anywhere so I am very excited about seeing it.
Joan Vogelle
L.I., NY USA - 06/07/97 at 14:26:01
Kinda OFT - For those of you in NYC (boy, do I miss it sometimes), Ang Lee's "The Ice Storm", based on Rick Moody's novel about mate swapping and family trauma in suburbia, will open the 35th annual New York film Festival. This is Lee's New York Film
Festival debut.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/07/97 at 13:38:34
Ah, Mary Anne, there is a little bit of the Interrogator in all of us - is 't not so? (Shivers!) But forgive me...forgive me.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/07/97 at 00:33:37
Thank you rebecca, everyone should read this. Poor Brandon, I don't think that he'll be in the mood for a party now.
Ellen
USA - 06/06/97 at 21:22:09
I have this screen play in my head, where AR plays Merlin and his evil twin Sandor. Sandor turned the nice prince (Ralph Finnes) into a dragon and he's still in love with his lady love..(us) and she has to go petition Sandor for the prince's release. She meets Merlin and mistakes him for Sandor.. he's not evil, he's nice and trys to help her but Sandor captures her and Merlin saves her and both Merlin and Sandor fall in love with her. She chooses Merlin, but he's 1,000 years old and even though he looks 49.. he knows that while he is imortal.. she will grow old and die. This has kept him unattached for centuries.. Sandor rapes her and Merlin finally gives in.. the prince is restored and ... wins an oscar.
Ellen
USA - 06/06/97 at 21:05:57
For those of you that haven't checked in over at Pemberly- go there!
There is a story (continuation of S&S) that
someone is writing called Never Love By Halfs. It is awesome and
well worth the trip over. For you Brandon fans this is a treat...
If anyone can't find it and needs the URL try going to: http://www.pemberley.com/ and then into the Writer's Guild.
TMD,
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/06/97 at 21:02:28
I wouldn't wave that 30,000 pounds sterling around if I were you! Hans is lible to blow us all up after taking us one by one to the roof on some ruse.. then George is likely to try and claim it as some sort of party tax! Of course Brandon will defend the sum with Sinclair, whip cream still showing in the corner of his mouth. Are we inviting any gypsies this time? Jamie could play for them, but he should be free to mingle. I could volunteer to watch George at all times. I always thought that if only Marion and Robin could have tied George up and talked to him, that all that killing him could have been avoided. Anyway I'd like to see George tied up! I'm probably bad huh? Poor missunderstood Sheriff.
Ellen
USA - 06/06/97 at 20:52:44
That should be "gentlemen" in that last post--plural, not singular.I
know there's more than one guy out there checking out this list
and saying, "What in the WORLD is the matter with these gals . . .?"
Mary Anne
USA - 06/06/97 at 17:54:46
Renie, you torturer--show the rest of us some mercy! 8-) The
Interrogator is also offering a very handsome briefcase, but
for the love of heaven, don't open that thing. It looks harmless
enough, but . . . Also, some items to consider for the party:
condoms, yes, by all means, but for the Vicomte as well. And
better put in a supply of wide-spectrum antibiotics for him, too,
because he's bound to have caught something with all that
philandering. Mild anti-depressants for the Colonel, though
the love of a good woman should relieve some of that melancholia.
(Mmmmm . . . Bet I could make him feel muuuuch better . . .)
Some anti-psychotics for Mr. I, if he breaks cover and shows
up. As for Hans, I'll personally offer the services of a good
security escort--HEAVILY ARMED. I'm not turning my back on
him at *this* party! Trying to stay out of trouble--yeah, I know,
lost cause--I remain, ladies and gentleman, maniacally yours--
Mary Anne
USA - 06/06/97 at 17:50:04
Continuing the party list and some questions...
For Jamie: a new coat, warm socks and some thermal undies from L.L. Bean, and a lifetime membership at Blockbuster
For the Colonel: Ben-Gay for the ache in his shoulder, and a private picnic with Marianne since he missed the first one
For Rasputin: Vodka and condoms
For the Sheriff: His own hair stylist
Also, since I don't believe I'll ever be able to see Mesmer and Closetland, could someone enlighten me on the plots? It's no fun just seeing hints on this board!
Susan <susan.fanning@mcmail.vanderbilt.edufoo>
Nashville, TN USA - 06/06/97 at 17:22:28
I for one, am ready to bid 30,000 pounds sterling for the opportunity, the *most* delightful opportunity, to have Colonel Brandon show me around the pianoforte with his...hands.
Renie
CA, USA - 06/06/97 at 17:21:28
Maybe Brandon, Elliott and the sherriff could offer horseback riding lessons. Ed could provide either art lessons or a portrait of the highest bidder "languishing." (Think of the "perspective" possibilities!) The sherriff could provide archery lessons, and may be "interviewing" for new castle wench positions. Just don't let the interrogator offer his services for the auction. I can just see his offering instruction in advanced grilling techniques....
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/06/97 at 17:19:16
Laurie, Col. Brandon would like to offer a Master Class in piano and a private recital (for one) on his Broadwood Grand to be given at his home - - - scheduled, of course, at a time when he is not needed in London.
Debbie <allend6@ten-nash.ten.k12.tn.usfoo>
Lakeland, TN USA - 06/06/97 at 15:21:34
You're out of town for a week and there's so many threads...
Laurie <lreid@cga.cafoo>
Toronto, Canada - 06/06/97 at 14:37:27
Hey anyone looking for "Blind Corner", In the US, try your
local interlibrary loan system. I live in Northern Illinois
and they located a library in West.VA. to loan a copy. It is worth
a try.
Sarah Ewald <ssr166@clc.cc.il.usfoo>
Spring Grove, IL USA - 06/06/97 at 13:51:35
Continuing the list,
10. Eyeglass cleaner and cotton cloths for Dev
11. Pen, quill, paper, and a shoulder to write on for the
Viscomte
12. Lobster bib for Raz
13. Hors d'oeuvres for the Interrogator so he won't need to
get near the utensils. Paper cups for his drinks
14. Polartec garments for the director of The Winter Guest
15. Party games so the Colonel will be occupied
16. Slippers for Nijisky. And maybe some chamomile tea for
his nerves
Yes, it's been a very long week!
Emma
USA - 06/06/97 at 11:29:33
This is a suggestion for those of you still looking for sources to get Alan's reading of Blind Corner by Dornford Yates, since Chivers no longer carries it (why do they do these things?? I was so upset when the publisher of the script for CME decided to bump it, and there are no copies available anywhere!). I was looking through some old papers, and I found a listing of Web sites I might be interested in trying. One is the Ash Grove Audiobook Exchange (http://pacific.telebyte.com/~ashgrove). They offer
new and old titles for sale, and they buy back old titles as well. I checked for both of AR's audio books, but they don't list them right now. This may be a good place to bookmark for future reference. Hope this helps!
Gilda <GildaC@aol.comfoo>
CT USA - 06/06/97 at 10:25:48
As the party is just around the corner, I started a list of
party elements that might make our guests comfortable (a bow
to Martha Stewart, who's sick, sick, sick!)
1. Faust Lager on tap for Mephisto's Hendrik Holger
2. Bathrobe and sunscreen for Dennis of The Grass Widow
3. A place for Hamlet, the Count, and the Sherrif to hang
their swords and daggers, and also their cloaks.
4. Tissue for Jamie
5. Pastels for Ed
6. Wine women and song for Raz
7. A well-connected, rich young widow for Obidiah
8. A bathrobe for O'Rourke, in case he didn't have time to
change since his final scene
9. The latest databases from the auction houses for Hans
Also, I wonder if we should have a silent auction as a benefit
for the Almeida, such as, a 1/2hr cello lesson with Jamie, etc.
I will continue to add to the list as my fevered mind goes
on exerting itself.
TTFN!
Emma
USA - 06/06/97 at 09:31:56
Mary Anne - thanks for the feedback. At the risk of getting too excited about this concept and then being heartbroken when it doesn't come about, I'm going to continue the story sketch. Maybe we should get together and really develop this and create a screenplay. Here's an idea. Maybe AR's character (SV for short - strong victim) is involved in this via someone also connected to A.H. and that person is the pivot about which events occur. We may never see that person even, but just an intensity piece with the two great actors. Is it an intentional hurt? I don't know yet. Would it be more interesting if it was? For the first time ever I'm putting my email address here and I hope you respond Mary Anne and any other collaborators, as I think we may have the genesis for a script emerging. I'm in the mood for some serious writing if you want to join me! Let's put this together guys, we've got the devotion and imagination if nothing else!
Anne <aeastawa@ozemail.com.aufoo>
Sydney, NSW Australia - 06/05/97 at 22:45:39
Ellen, what a time for your daughter to break her ankle
with summer coming up quick! Been
there, done that. Let her know that we hope she heals fast!
Is the party really next weekend?! Aughhh! What do I wear?!
Melissa, thank you for that tidbit. I'm happy to be proved wrong
I just think its odd that he's always half hidden. You can
imagine that someone else's arms are there. Ah well, maybe it is just
to show him as being sort of "not there" because he really isn't!
I can't wait to see it again! A definite favorite!! TMD all,
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/05/97 at 21:40:40
To Anne in Sydney: "Chess-like duel of intimidation
and defiance . . ." Mmmm, what a way to put it. Is anyone else
out there getting great bumpy shivers thinking of AR and Sir
Anthony going mano a mano?! And the term "strong victim" is
interesting, too. I envision some sort of situation (for this
script) in which AR plays a character who has in some way injured
the "villain," but quite unintentionally. Or maybe it is intentional--
say he's the lawyer who gets the villain convicted, for example--
and the antagonist seeks his revenge. Hoards of possibilities
there. Question: should other people be involved, or should
it be more of a CL setting, strictly the two of them? INTENSE!
So, there's the script idea . . . any volunteers to write it?
BTW, my friend (that I've introduced to CL and then TMD) can
hardly wait to get on-line and join us. I'll let you know when
she does so you can give her a real Rickmaniac welcome! 8-)
Salut,
Mary Anne
USA - 06/05/97 at 17:57:22
Sorry....
I meant to reload the guestbook NOT the addition to it. I have now joined the ranks of the double-posted. At least I'm in good company. :-}
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/05/97 at 17:27:40
Hi All!!!
My access to the net has been severely limited, so I don't get my guestbook fix daily, but it's well worth waiting for.
Ellen, I hope that your daughter's ankle and your ac are soon as good as new. It's difficult when people that we love are hurt.
I received a copy of Closet Land and five (count 'em, five) copies of TMD in the mail yesterday (guess what I'm giving as birthday presents for the next two months...). In connection with earlier discussions, I think that Jamie comes back
as much to help himself let go as to help his lady love. Also, I find it an interesting point (if a tortured metaphor) that each plays an instrument and each is an instrument in the other's healing process. I know that I'm prone to over-analysis, but that struck me when I was reading some of your comments about the scene in which they're playing the piano.
I'm being kicked out, so TTFN. I can't wait until I have another chance to "visit" you all.
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/05/97 at 17:25:02
Hi All!!!
My access to the net has been severely limited, so I don't get my guestbook fix daily, but it's well worth waiting for.
Ellen, I hope that your daughter's ankle and your ac are soon as good as new. It's difficult when people that we love are hurt.
I received a copy of Closet Land and five (count 'em, five) copies of TMD in the mail yesterday (guess what I'm giving as birthday presents for the next two months...). In connection with earlier discussions, I think that Jamie comes back
as much to help himself let go as to help his lady love. Also, I find it an interesting point (if a tortured metaphor) that each plays an instrument and each is an instrument in the other's healing process. I know that I'm prone to over-analysis, but that struck me when I was reading some of your comments about the scene in which they're playing the piano.
I'm being kicked out, so TTFN. I can't wait until I have another chance to "visit" you all.
Kate
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/05/97 at 17:24:23
For what it's worth, AR says in the 1992 Radio Times interview that he did all of Jamie's bowing in TMD. The credits must list the cellist whose playing was actually recorded.
Melissa
Cambridge, MA USA - 06/05/97 at 17:19:38
Mary Ann,
Someone has mentioned this before but if you
look real close you can tell its not him playing. If you
remember, he's always sitting with partially off-screen when
he's playing a solo and the arms are not his (as far as I can tell)
TMD,
Rebecca
MI USA - 06/05/97 at 15:57:42
Hi guys, I've been away for a while. Mary Anne I loved your idea of AR playing the strong victim to an Anthony Hopins type villain. I think it would give a great opportunity to see a chess-like duel of intimidation and defiance. We can only dream.
Anne
Sydney, NSW Australia - 06/05/97 at 10:26:58
Couple of TMD comments: first, can anyone tell me if AR is
really playing that cello? Certainly looks like it (my friend
loved the film, by the way ; we were both "projectile weeping"
by the end). Also, seems this would be a good film to use in
grief recovery support groups--when we lose someone dear to
us, don't we wish we could somehow, miraculously, get them
back? But we don't realize what it would be like if we did!
Have seen the on-its-way-to-legendary "hands" picture . . .
pant, pant. I do envy the lady. Heck, I envy the cello! 8-)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/05/97 at 09:38:28
I borrowed The Moon and Sixpence from the library and read it with great interest.
Presumably it will be altered a good bit for the screen - but the descriptions of Charles
Strickland are interesting.
...He was broad and heavy, with large hands and feet, and he wore his evening clothes
clumsily...He was a man of forty, not good-looking, and yet not ugly, for his features were
rather good; but they were all a little larger than life-size, and the effect was ungainly. He
was clean-shaven, and his large face looked uncomfortably naked. His hair was reddish, cut
very short, and his eyes were small, blue or grey. He looked commonplace.
(later that same year)...his trousers were baggy, his hands were not clean; and his face, with
the red stubble of the unshaved chin, the little eyes, and the large, aggressive nose, was
uncouth and coarse. His mouth was large, his lips were heavy and sensual...
(5 years later)...his red beard, ragged and untrimmed, hid much of his face, and his hair was
long; but the most surprising change in him was his extreme thinness. It made his great nose
protrude more arrogantly; it emphasised his cheekbones; it made his eyes seem larger.
There were deep hollows at his temples. His body was cadaverous ... I noticed his hands,
dirty, with long nails; they were merely bone and sinew, large and strong; but I had forgotten
that they were so shapely...
Thank you Renie (and Linda) for the hands picture!!
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/05/97 at 04:30:16
Hi, I'm all moved in and just set up the computer and found that so much had happened here whist I was unpacking. My favorite line from January Man was at the very end when Ed goes off up the street after saying that he was going home to do something really original. I took that to mean, something different than the type of movie that they had just done! and Mary Elizabeth's comment to Ed.. after he says that people are either fantastick or all washed up and she says.."You think" like she's been hearing quite a lot of what he thinks lately..
Its cute. I will send the tapes to all this week. My daughter broke her ankle, the AC's not working, I must be under stress because I found that my obsession is returning, but Maxine is sending the cronicles and mesmer so I'll have a new..prospective. When is the party? I have a black dress!
Ellen Sherman
USA - 06/04/97 at 23:48:58
The first time I saw Alan Rickman I was disgusted - I hated him! When I was a child we had
a Robin Hood series on TV with a noble and aristocratic Sheriff of Nottingham who was
almost a goodie. I expect AR was brought up on this too! When I heard that Kevin Costner
was going to be Robin Hood I nearly died laughing, but I thought at least this British classical
actor would make an excellent heroic and noble Sheriff. Of course he is utterly, gloriously
different, but after what I expected I thought he was just dreadful !!
However, some years later ... in January 1995 AR read a poem on a radio programme in
support of Bosnia and the same evening Die Hard was on TV. That's when I saw the light!
He read the poem so well - not beautifully, not emotionally, but plainly and simply, full of
truth and pain. ("My subject is war, and the pity of war. The poetry is in the pity.") I begged
the BBC for a tape and offered to pay (a lot) but no dice.
I loved him in Die Hard. I was absolutely captivated! That began such an enjoyable time of
finding out, with some effort, about him and his films. I was too late for any theatre, apart
from The Winter Guest, which I saw in the second week at the West Yorkshire Playhouse in
Leeds. How wonderful to have VCRs so we can watch him over and over (and of course
whizz past the boring bits without him), and - joy O joy - freeze frame on those eyes! the
hands!! the grace!
I have enjoyed the Guestbook such a lot. It took me ages to catch up from the beginning,
but now I'm (usually) up to date. What a lot of interesting, sensible, cheerful, intelligent
people call in! I've learnt a lot and laughed a lot. Thanks Karina and all the rest of you.
An AR quote:- "I do take my work seriously and the way to do that is not to take yourself too
seriously."
Jean <geoff.cram@virgin.netfoo>
Leeds, UK - 06/04/97 at 16:24:08
Hi Everyone!
The Republic of Pemberley (a Jane Austen web page) has a great board (Virtual Views) for film discussions. They just posted their schedule for June, and TMD is scheduled to begin on June 29. I don't know if the citizens of Pemberley are quite ready for a
group of rabid Alan Rickman fans joining in, but if anyone is interested here's the schedule.
June 8: Discussion begins on Much Ado About Nothing starring Kenneth Branagh and Emma
Thompson.
June 23: Discussion begins on Hostages starring Colin Firth and Ciaran Hinds. This may be rented or
seen on the History Channel, Sunday June 22.
June 29: Discussion begins on Truly, Madly, Deeply starring Alan Rickman.
The address to join in on the discussions:
http://www.pemberley.com/pemb/adaptations/virtview/index.html
Love
Linda
Linda <lpolin@unex.ucla.edufoo>
USA - 06/04/97 at 14:47:31
A quick response to Elizabeth of Fairfax, since I see nobody else has commented on her query about the siblings in CME. Yes, they are brother and sister; but there seems more of a 'gap' between them which is explained by their having been separated as young children and only meeting again later in life - in their mid teens, I believe. I won't comment on the movie itself as I developed a chronic aversion to these two characters from the start, and it only got worse. Thank heaven for Sinclair who saved the entire movie. Bye for now.
Annette <carson@global.co.zafoo>
Johannesburg, South Africa - 06/04/97 at 02:44:38
You're welcome, R. Fahey! I first fell in cinematic love with
A.Bates when I sneaked in to see Women in Love (was too young
at the time, the olden days), and the web site is very good,
almost as good this one. They even had info on movies I didn't
know existed. His son is also an actor.
Then I fell in cimenatic love with Rickman when I saw DH to the
extent that I didn't even notice Godunov, whom I seen dance in NY
when he used to be gorgeous.
Emma
USA - 06/03/97 at 17:14:56
Emma: THANKS!! for the Alan Bates site tip. That's *THE*
most effectively laid-out, graphically attractive Web
design I've yet seen for a performing artist. It befits
and honors its subject in every way. Especially liked
the Library, Audio and Spotlight sections.
R.Faey
USA - 06/03/97 at 16:32:05
Renie: Thanks for the Hand Photo *pant* haven't quite caught my breath back yet *pant* Mmmm Mmmm Good TMD, Dana
Dana <strom@methow.comfoo>
Twisp, WA USA - 06/03/97 at 10:15:36
Thank you, Renie, I meant "Chronicles," not "Towers." Don't know
where my mind was--unsettled from the madcap life I've been
leading, no doubt. To the person who asked if my captors'
"proclivities" had been rubbing off on me, I can only answer that
that when I'm in the proper mood, I could teach them a thing
or two . . . or three. (Evil chuckle) Good thing Hans left
when he did . . . ! Also, I'm introducing a friend to TMD
this evening. Think I should take along a crying towel? A
crying sheet? The whole linen closet, perhaps?
Mary Anne
USA - 06/03/97 at 09:20:23
To Order the Barchester Chronicles call 1-800-RAREVID.
Clarification of the site for the AR hand photo - it's in Sanctuary just off the Friends of Firth page.
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/02/97 at 17:57:14
Re: pictures in the S&S Diaries. I really shouldn't (though
I do) look too often at the cast photo of AR at the front of
the book--those eyes go straight through me like lasers. The
one that breaks my heart, though--and I mean the tears literally
stand in my eyes when I see it--is the double-page one of Col.
Brandon in the boat. So sad. He looks absolutely desolate. If
Tennyson's poor brokenhearted Lady in the boat had been a man
instead, he would have looked like this. In other business,
would someone please post again where/how to order *Barchester
Towers*? Thank you. BTW, Hans has gone away and left me in
peace for now ; he's far too cultured to continue trashing a
library in that barbarian fashion (like us loutish Americans,
right). So be on your guard . . . he and his cohorts might
not be able to resist showing up at the Wine Bar party! See
you all there, if Doc Mesmer says I'm fit to attend. ;-)
Mary Anne
USA - 06/02/97 at 17:50:22
Oh no! Lisa talked about his hands. For anyone else interested (that's a nice word - "interested") in his hands, a visit to:
http://www.geocities.com/Paris/LeftBank/4560/tmd9.jpg is lovely. (And thanks, Linda for the site.)
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/02/97 at 17:34:10
Hi everybody!
Lisa <pubdefrv.lwagner@co.riverside.ca.usfoo>
Riverside, CA USA - 06/02/97 at 14:02:11
January Man was a movie that should have been much better--I
remember being so disappointed in it because it had such a
great cast. I agree that the dramatic, not to mention the
suspense, should have been played up more especially with
the whole thing with the brother, his wife etc. There
was too much over-acting--why is it that when a movie is set
in New York there has to be tons of foul language, loud
voices and big gestures? Not all "N.Y." films are like this
of course but action and comedies tend to be the biggest
culprits. I thought AR was great as Ed and I wonderif his
part was cut down a la RHPOT? More interaction between Ed
and Danny Aiello's character would have been fun. I really
did enjoy AR's performance and other aspects of the film were
amusing. Kudos to the person (Emma?) who noticed the "Fish
Called Wanda" promo. stance! I agree with Mary Anne that
Alan could show off his versatility with more varied or
subverted roles--playing against type if you will. That
seems to garner lots of attention from Hollywood and all
that rigamarole (Oscar anyone?) Til the next round of
discussion, Noel
Noel
Alexandria, VA USA - 06/02/97 at 11:35:29
The "sex-week"?? Oh, my God! And I thought I read it through before I submitted it!! I know I'm gonna get crucified for that one!
Gilda <GildaC@aol.comfoo>
CT USA - 06/02/97 at 10:25:09
Whoa, didn't mean to cause a furor over January Man. I'm glad some of you posted comments in its defense because it allowed me to rethink my opinions; I said, "Oh, yeah, I liked that part too." But I do concur with a lot of you who say the comedic plot of a disturbing subject didn't work and the swearing was really unnecessary. Normally, stuff like that doesn't bother me, but it perked my ears enough that I was looking around my room when I was watching it, hoping no one could hear all the "f---" and whatnot. Anne, a lot of us have been trying to figure out whether the art in JM was actually from Alan's own hand, so if anyone has any insight... Also wanted to pass along that this week's People magazine (dated June 9, 1997) has a short story of The Ruby
Wax Show in the Picks & Pans section. It gets a very nice review and is graded a B:
This sex-week series consists of interviews already seen on Wax's BBC show, and the June 9 permiere provides a fair sampling of her ebullient outrageousness. You may giggle helplessly, as Hawn does almost from the moment Wax barges into her London hotel suite. You may start out a little dubious but gradually go along with the gag, like Lee on the set of Baywatch. You may feel Wax tries awfully hard to be even less demure than the Divine Miss M. But you'll probably agree that her act is a refreshing change
from talk show routine. It's good for the celebs to be overwhelmed once in a while."
Gilda <GildaC@aol.comfoo>
CT USA - 06/02/97 at 10:22:32
Yum, Hans growling, I love it when Hans growls!
Emma
USA - 06/02/97 at 09:58:13
Melissa--who says I left the library? I worked hard to get this
job and I'm not leaving it, Hans or no Hans! (Look, ma, no Hans!)
Anyway, on the "challenge roles" thread, how about the following:
1) The victim of a psycho instead of the psycho--not a whimpering,
helpless type, but one who fights back with courage and resourcefulness,
sort of reverse *Closet Land*. But who'd be scary enough to
play the villain? Maybe Sir Anthony Hopkins? 2) Some sort of
physical limitation--perhaps a role that had to be played from
a wheelchair. Yes, we'd miss that wonderful control of body
language, but he'd depend even more on facial expression and
[sigh] that voice. Besides, people with disabilities could
use more positive, dignified portrayals of themselves, and he'd
do full justice to that, I'm sure. There have been some good
ones (*Children of a Lesser God*, for instance) but more woudln't
hurt. Feel free to take these comments and run with them, though
I needn't worry about that on THIS page! (grin) And keep those
posts coming, since I'm locked in this office until Hans gives
up on growling outside my door and goes away. Such a lovely
baritone growl, though . . . and thank you, kind people, for
your lovely comments that you missed me so much. I missed all
of you more than I can say. And to you more "recent" types,
I can see I've got some reputation to live up to! 8-) Meanwhile,
watch your backs ; we know Hans is, but The Sheriff and Mr. I
are still on the loose! Who know where they'll strike next?
Mary Anne
USA - 06/02/97 at 09:48:24
Just came across a nice quote from Lord Byron (with a little
help from W. Safire)that looks timely for the party, if you
pardon my alteration,
Let us have wine and Rickman, mirth and laughter,
with something to keep Obidiah Slope and Jacques Roux happy,
Sermons and soda water the day after.
Emma
USA - 06/02/97 at 09:29:27
IMHO 'January Man' is an OK film, too little of AR though, I think they were trying to turn a "serial killer" movie into a comedy, (anyone notice the similarity between the cover stance of Kevin Kline and his stance on the cover of 'A Fish Called Wanda?.)It would have been a better movie if they had kept it a little more serious, I think. The language was soooo unnecessary. I personally don't think the blue ribbon Ed's model was wearing was to lead us to think Ed was the killer. It wasn't the same kind
of ribbon. As to AR's "killer" reputation, well when I saw the movie, there were two people in back of me who got into a serious arguement over whether or not the 'guy playing Ed was the same guy who was in 'Diehard'. One of these folks refused to believe Hans and Ed were played by the same actor, so the 'killer' reputation was not too firmly fixed in those folks' minds. I thought it looked like a fun part for AR, an artist, (talk about type-casting,) and a guy who thought you shouldn't NEED money. I wonder if he really drew all the little parrots, or just the one we see him working on? also whether or not all the sketches on the easel were his. In any event, it was sort of fun to watch, I loved Ed's choices for dinner. And his clothes. And the haircut.
Face it, if AR is in a movie I just enjoy! Anne
Anne Harding <ahard73977@aol.comfoo>
Alex., VA USA - 06/01/97 at 22:44:37
More tentacles, Karina: The screenwriter for Ang Lee's "The Ice Storm" won a screenwriting award at Cannes.
Suzanne, it's a good bet (mine anyway) that Michael Gambon, star of Dennis Potter's "The Singing Detective"
will win a Tony Award for
Hare's production of "Skylight". His female counterpart, Lia Williams
may lose out to Janet Mcteer, for her new take in "A Doll's House" which Pam loved so much...
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/01/97 at 22:23:38
Karina and others--I also want to put in a vote of approval for January Man. The plot was a little tired, but anything with Kevin Kline and AR can't be all bad. AABA, on the other hand, was interesting to me only for AR's performance (and the discussions generated here on deeper meanings). The rest was depressing. Question for anyone who remembers it: the model Ed is painting is wearing a blue ribbon, and the killer also uses a blue ribbon. Were we supposed to suspect Ed? Was AR's "villainous" reputation supposed to aid that suspicion? Also, in CME, another question: Were the two lovers blood relations, adoptive relations, or half-blood relations (I got the impression they were not truly brother and sister somehow)? Thanks, anyone, for the clarification.
Elizabeth <simonses@mindspring.comfoo>
Fairfax, VA USA - 06/01/97 at 20:36:25
Karina, you're not alone -- I actually thought "January Man" was kind of funny. It IMHO would have been much better without all the swearing, and if Alan's acting talent had actually been *used*, but...
Debbie A. <maalbers@uniserve.comfoo>
Sardis, BC Canada - 06/01/97 at 19:57:59
Multiple tentacle spotting:Please remember if you are sending e-mail by clicking a link from this guestbook, you will HAVE to edit the address down or the maile will bounce back to you.
Karina <karina@fred.netfoo>
USA - 06/01/97 at 18:42:23
Here I was, thinking how tiresome it is waiting through this dry spell without AR.
Then, I'm fast-forwarding my son's Magic School Bus tape to find the end so I can
tape some of the French Open (tennis) and what do I find but my missing 15 seconds of AR accepting the Golden Globe Award for
Rasputin. What a surge! Charming, handsome, funny, humble and exuding warmth and class. (Sigh.)
Renie <reniept@hotmail.comfoo>
CA, USA - 06/01/97 at 18:39:56
Can anyone please tell me if the illustrated text of
ROMEO AND JULIET, issued to accompany the BBC-TV
production, includes photographs of AR as Tybalt? I've
found many of the BBC texts in used bookstores, but not
this one. Thanks!
R.Faey
USA - 06/01/97 at 17:46:46
A "Profile" of Dennis Potter (wrote the screenplay for Mesmer) will be on tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET on Bravo. But you might want to set your VCRs for the repeat at 1:00 a.m. instead because the Tony Awards will also be airing tonight on PBS at 8:00 p.m.
ET and continued (?) on CBS at 9:00 p.m. The Dennis Potter/Bravo show will also be repeated on Thursday (6-5) at 7:00 p.m. ET.
Suzanne K. <skurtz@cvtv.netfoo>
Hallettsville, TX USA - 06/01/97 at 15:00:30
Apologies to all for this use of the guest page: Daggi, please send me your mailing address!
Nancy R. <nroberts@pop.sonic.netfoo>
CA USA - 06/01/97 at 12:11:14
TMD Alert for southern Californians: TMD is on today at 4 pm on KCET Channel 28. Rev up your VCRs!
Jane
Los Angeles, CA USA - 06/01/97 at 11:48:42
Hello Allan,
I think that you are one of the best male actors in the world today, you are a very talented individual.
I love the way you played on "closet land" you were great!
Keep on the amazing work.
Truly yours,
Danny
Danny Ben-Ari <DANNYB@nice.comfoo>
Tel-Aviv, Israel - 06/01/97 at 08:16:43
I hate to be the one to spoil the illusion but I may be able to shed some light
on the Ruby Wax series you are about to see in the US. If it is the series with Goldie
there is no sign of AR anywhere, not even the credits. It has already been aired here.
But the good news is that it is a great series anyway. Enjoy and dream on.
Stephanie <fewings@satech.net.aufoo>
Adelaide, SA Australia - 06/01/97 at 00:26:39
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