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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...
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 rationa