Alan Rickman Guestbook

(February 1 - February 28, 2002)

Ok, now, first off all, I don't want you all to think I'm really this bored. With that said, ok, here goes...

I was watching Jay Leno a minute ago and there was a clip of a band scene with George Bush edited into it. The clip was the one of AR in some band movie, I've seen the pictures, I'm not sure about what movie it is. Sorry to act so ignorant to it, but I can't help but notice Alan Rickman playing the guitar.

Did anyone else see this?
Jayne Claire
AL - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 20:54:38 (PDT)

Does anyone know how to contact the webmaster at the Russian Alan Rickman site? I can't figure out where to email the buggers.

Sally (Cybermuse) -- they've got your stuff up there, too.....

Click on my name to go there. Can anyone help?
Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 20:08:27 (PDT)

Concerned Citizen, I liked your post with "20 Questions" (or however many) about Truly Madly Deeply. Even if the movie is considered a tad flawed (perfectly acceptable in a first film) despite its wonderful performances, it did its job if it made you think about it afterwards, a good example of "artis longis" entertaining you beyond your initial viewing. Your post, however, made me think about mortality in general, as one of my best friends died from a mistake by National Health, hence my acceptance of the sudden death concept. Intriguing to me is the concept portrayed here of how ghosts amuse themselves throughout eternity: Jamie had a mission, and invited his friends down to help. (His contemporaries remained alive...)
FastFilm
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 18:22:57 (PDT)

Sorry, Sally. I meant that she does some "undercover" work in front of the Ab-Fab cameras. I have spotted her in disguise on that show on several occasions.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 17:57:19 (PDT)

This just in from one of the yahoo groups. Ruby Wax was interviewed on BBC Radio 4 on Tuesday to plug her book (which I can't wait to get my hands on!). You can listen to the interview here. You'll need RealPlayer. She does mention The Man in passing. But the whole interview is VERY interesting for RW fans
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 17:52:47 (PDT)

Apologies for previous comment - continued reading and caught up with entire spool. Yes, one must rememeber Ruby Wax makes her shows for non-American audiences. That said, I don't necessarily think the ones she was doing in the 80s/90s were terribly good...

Delightfully though, one of our tabloid mags showed a piccy of the AB Fab duo in NY on shoot recently - is it true? Another Ab Fab series?!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 17:29:01 (PDT)

Constance, while I cannot give you a direct answer to your question, I can only say that it is an actor's job to accurately portray the concerns of the society in which he lives. God and religion are still a concern for many people. Therefore, characters are created to that effect, and Alan gets to pick and choose which ones he plays. Certainly there are religious undertones to the way he plays his characters: from the overtly religious figures of Jacques Roux, Rasputin, Metatron, and Rev. Slope, to the quasi-religious Mesmer and even the posturings of Hans Gruber (it was said that he handled the Rolodex like a priest handles the Bible when he has finished his sermon). But I think it takes a certain amount of irreverence to do that. Alan was raised in an interfaith household, but perhaps someone may yet bump into him at church on a Sunday? Somehow he doesn't strike me as a crucifix kind of guy.
Julia
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 17:28:08 (PDT)

I would hardly describe the several Ruby Wax series' as 'undercover!' By my reckoning she has had at least 3-4 series through the '90s and had one series as recently as a couple of years ago (true, she was 'investigating' the weirder sides of America, but she certainly wasn't in disguise...)
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 17:26:18 (PDT)

Concerned (and obviously curious) citizen: 1. This was 1991.Thatcher's legacy of cutbacks, remember? He might have gone into shock before the NHS got to him, and then it would have been too late. 2.As far as I remember, these other parts of the anatomy work with blood, not heat. Which raises the interesting question of what a person who had bled to death would do in the afterlife? 3.He's a ghost, not a corpse! 4. Jamie keeps up with his learning--he learned Spanish, so why not VCR-operation? Perhaps Alice taught him; you know how those kids are with technology! 5. It's magic, C-C, willing suspension of disbelief! 6. That's a type of therapy. Perfectly legal. Might not work for Nina in this instance, but we only see Birge once. Nina says that Birge lent her some books on grieving. Maybe they helped? 7. Ha! 8. I think the whole orchestra is dead. Your comment reminded me of the Monty Python song, "Decomposing Composers". "There's less of them every year..." 9.Does Nina strike you as the kind of person who could take care of anything on her own? She'd have Titus over there every night, making the cat cough up the furballs! Besides, with all the rat poison in the house, the SPCA would be on her in an instant! And with her luck, the cat would also die of anaphylactic shock, and come back to haunt her. :-)
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 17:21:39 (PDT)

Ruby Wax is a script editor for Ab-Fab. She has done some "undercover" work in front of the camera though.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 17:08:53 (PDT)

Well, with all the talk of this past month on Dogma and my reading up of Jacques Raux from The Preacher, I cannot avoid the glaring question......... Does AR believe in God or is he an atheist? He has stated in interview, that if you want to know about him, to look at his work, that it is all there..... But I do find it a bit confusing.What do you all think? And please, I don't really care.....it will not make me think more or less of the man... I am merely curious! :~)
Constance
NC USA - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 16:51:33 (PDT)

Ruby Wax was on Ab-Fab? How did I miss her? Well, it was a few years back and what did I know from Ruby Wax? (plans yet another trip to the A-V Department)

Thanks for all the feedback on GOT. While my reaction is not quite as, er, liquid as that of Claudia, I can attest that all I have to do is look at Jennifer Saunders and I break out laughing. I think that's what saved GOT for me, actually. The shows get funnier as time progresses (the tape set has shows from more than one season), and with a second viewing I was able to make out more of the asides and slang.

One of my reasons for mentioning the show (aside from encouraging everyone to engage in "six degrees of appreciating Alan Rickman") is to find out if anyone, like me, got a graphic lesson in perceiving stereotypes from watching Ruby Wax. As I watched her in the first ten minutes or so of her screen time I thought had never seen such a tired, predictable portrayal of an overbearing loud-mouthed American. But then it struck me--she does it on purpose! She's playing the token American, and acting like she thinks she is expected to act. (This is comedy, after all, and comedy thrives on caricature.) Suddenly I felt myself in the place of any (fill in the nationality/ethnicity here) watching the token (fill in nat/eth here) on whichever episode of (fill in American sit-com here). Wow. What a reality shift that was.

Sorry this is such a windy post. Suffice it to say, I have a new appreciation for Ruby Wax, if only for the lesson she unknowingly taught me.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 16:37:10 (PDT)

I've just been catching up with AR chat as I have been busy. Forgive me if I'm out of line here, after all I'm new to this. But isn't this suposed to be FUN. It is called a guestbook, we are guests we don't have to insult each other. We can get enough of that in the real world. Nor do we have to lower the tone, too much! We are guests after all. All I want to do is talk about Alan either as himself, (but as we don't know him thats a bit difficult) or as a character. My favourite is TMD. I know it's a bit depressing, I only watch the Jamie bits any way,DVD's are useful,the "Sun ain't gonna shine anymore" scene is sumthin' else, and when he pours water on JS, how she kept herself from smiling when she knew what was going to happen, is good acting. I like to see him work in anything, some I wish he hadn't bothered BR & JK come to mind but hey, I like to watch him. Maybe he had a morgage demand or something. Anyway I'm looking forward to seeing HPCOS, on the 8/11. Goodnight all it's way past my bedtime.
Mary <m-kerman@connectfree.co.ukfoo>
U.K. - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 16:20:14 (PDT)

ACC--I have had some of those same questions. Especially #6, #7, and (God help me) #2. As for the live/dead musicians, I would have to agree that they are all ghost musicians, except that one of them also plays the cello at the bus stop--you know, where Nina originally thinks she sees Jamie playing? Perhaps this is just one of those famous movie bloopers.

Tami--about Busted. Haven't seen it yet, but give me a week.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 16:02:00 (PDT)

ACC--I understand all of your questions except number 8. If you are referring to the symphony that took place in Nina's livingroom, I was under the impression that the whole orchestra were ghosts.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 15:28:35 (PDT)

hmm, my favorite Rickman movies Sense and Sensibility-brilliantly acted by all concerned-has anyone else noticed Brandon's "vice"? he likes to listen to gossip-ie"I have heard around town"-otherwise he is perfect, isn't he! TMD-shows the interaction between two friends, and is, in my opinion, the closest to Rickman's true personality. My analytical nature gets in the way though and questions arise 1. Is the national health service so lame that no one did an emergency tracheotomy on Jamie? Most healthy young people can be salvaged from an anaphylactic rxn, especially if they are already in the hospital. Granted, Jamie wouldn't have been able to talk with a hole in his throat. 2.If Jamie didn't have enough circulation to keep his lips warm, chances are that other areas of his anatomy would be adversely affected also. 3.Would Nina want to sleep with a dead person? Would a dead person be interested in sex? 4. How would ghosts from different centuries know about VCR's and videos? Surely Jamie would have a wide circle of friends, and most of the people I know from this century {all of my friends are alive} don't know how to operate their VCR's. 5. What was the other love interest doing with a bird in his jacket at a coffee shop? Does the bird like Russian novels too? 6.Why is Nina paying perfectly good money for a therapist that just sits there and looks at her? 7.Does Juliet Stevenson say "Trotsky" and "Bum" before every meal? What do Tory and Independents says before eating? 8. Why do other live musicians see the ghosts, but regular people don't? Is it something to do with musical talent, string quartets or a lack of good musicians in heaven? Surely Jamie would have wanted to meet Bach or Mozart, wouldn't he? 9.Why didnt Nina get a cat?
a concerned citizen
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 15:12:33 (PDT)

I agree with Amanda, but I do think in some movies and some still pictures he's gorgeous, without having to do anything.
Vera
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 14:17:19 (PDT)

Lelefua
thank you so much

Hope it did work this time...
black-sheriff
you know where, - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 13:49:11 (PDT)

black-sheriff,
see above under "Quick guide to...
lelefua
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 13:40:11 (PDT)

Correction: After a quick review of the press, I see that the number of marchers in London was 400,000 to 500,000--the biggest march since the Vietnam era. The Independent Media Center has photos but no info on attendees.
Lily
Chicago, IL - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 13:38:43 (PDT)

Can anybody tell me how I manage to get paragraphs to my postings? Might sound silly but I'm trying in vain so far...Thanx
black-sheriff
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 13:34:34 (PDT)

Magda, you've said it all for me, thanks! I do agree with you Amanda. What I like so much about AR is the fact he is obviously not taking himself too serious while taking his acting very serious though. I mean, playing the sheriff, he isn't all mean, he is funny too( I heard the hillarious scene when the sheriff trys to part Maid Marianne's legs just after their wedding was HIS idea) and then the Ken-doll scene in Dogma, you need a good sense of humour to show yourself that way in a movie. And then again Colonel Brandon, he says it all without saying a word. Who ever did fall in love with someone who didn't love her/him back, knows how he feels... Oh god, I just sound like Major Tums predicted us to do... Sorry, was taken away by admiration :-)
black-sheriff
Karlsruhe, Germany - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 13:30:12 (PDT)

When there are major political marches in the States, we usually get reports of the celebrities who turn out to support the event. (Support definitely doesn't have to include making a speech.) Susan Sarandon, Tim Robbins, Ron Silver, the Baldwins, are just a few examples. Any word from England if AR has been listed/spotted as being among the 150,000 marchers against military intervention in Iraq in London this past Sunday? (Will search a few newspapers on the net to see if I find any news in this regard.)

Lily
Chicago, IL - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 13:26:23 (PDT)

Oh and IMHO, besides my sweetie, The Man is the best looking thing I've seen.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 12:04:36 (PDT)

I lurv Ruby Wax's humor! She is hilarious.

Girl's On Top was a funny show and I thought the combination of RW with Jennifer Saunders (Absolutely Fabulous), Dawn French (Vicar of Dibley), and Tracy Ullman (Visible Panty Lines) was brilliant.

RW had a VERY brief run with her own show on the Lifetime network a few years back. Unfortunately for people that love comedy, it didn't take off.

RW, JS, and DF, now collaborate on Absolutely Fabulous which is another show that makes me nearly pee my pants!

Goodness--AR does seem to surround himself with funny people. Emma Thompson is just as funny as the four mentioned above.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 11:43:30 (PDT)

Sure, I wanna shag Alan. But I don't wanna talk about it all the time or read others talking about it all the time. It's boring and silly and a waste of space. Do I like Snape? Sure, I love Alan as Snape. But I don't wanna hear about Snape all the time either, since there's so much more about Alan to discuss. On this Guestbook I expect to find some interesting or even intellectual discussions of Alan's films and characters and pertinent information about Alan himself. BTW, as webmistress of my own site, I have to agree that I find it gauche to promote your own site so often. All you have to do is enter your Homepage URL when posting, then interested parties can click on your name to visit your page. You don't have to beat anyone over the head with it.
Tami
Notre Dame, IN USA - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 11:24:44 (PDT)

Cool, Amanda! That's exactly how I think of him! :D
ColonelGruber
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 11:16:23 (PDT)

Bravo Amanda, that's it!!!!
lelefua
germany - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:37:58 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, your exposure to Ms. Wax is a bit better than mine. I only know her from Shock Treatment. **shudder** And I've seen her name in the credits of Ab Fab a few times.
Meryl <aanrmem@yahoo.comfoo>
Middle of Nowhere, OH - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:35:34 (PDT)

I'm interested as to whether any of you share my impression of The Man--he's not the best-looking man I've ever seen; he's not even in the top ten (okay, maybe 8 or 9). Still photos, by and large, do not do him justice. His magic is the alchemy he brings to a role when he is moving, speaking, or eloquently not speaking. It is what he conveys, what he "uses the instrument" for, rather than the instrument itself, that is so attractive, and it is his skill as much as his looks that I find appealing. Don't get me wrong, I do like the way he looks, but I think what puts him over the top is what he can *do*. What say ye?
The long-silent Amanda <editor@texas.netfoofoofoofoo>
San Antonio, - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:29:09 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, I have a video of Girls On Top with a short cameo by AR. Personally, I don't care for Ruby Wax in this show, but I've never seen her anywhere else. Also, I would like to ask if anyone out there has AR in Busted (1982) and what is their opinion of it? -Tami
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:17:55 (PDT)

Magda, I don't mean that the posters can't separate AR from his characters, or have a problem doing so. I think that actors generate obsessive fan worship because their art invites fantasizing about the artist themselves. You don't see sculptors up on a huge screen looking gorgeous and reciting poetry to a lover as part of their art. If Alan had decided as an artist to only play Hitler in various plays and movies, do you think we'd all be here? I don't think we would. I know we know he's not Snape and Colonel Brandon, but these attractive characters that he plays affect our feelings for him, the actor.
Major Tums
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:12:08 (PDT)

Sometimes when I check in here, the conversation is not interesting to me and I wait it out. The tide always turns. What I find boring, other people find interesting. We're all different. There's something for everybody here. I've read expressions of love for characters here for a long time. It's no more nonsensical than expressing love for Alan himself, a man none of us knows intimately.
Vera
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:02:10 (PDT)

Sorry to interrupt the conversational flow, but may I again ask if anyone out there has seen any episodes of Girls on Top, with or without AR? I ask this again because of the news item Georgiana has just posted (next door--news page) about Ruby Wax. My sole exposure to Ms. Wax has been through her appearances in GOT, (plus that tiny cameo in The Borrowers) and I'm just curious how people react to her. I must admit, she put me off at first, but I have warmed to her. And if you are wondering by now what all this has to do with AR--all the better to understand him by understanding his world.

Oh, and if I have made you curious and you are wondering how on earth to find this show, I checked it out of my local public library first, and then found it quite easily on places like half.com when I decided to buy it.

And one more thing--a keyword search on Google using the name of this show produces some pretty interesting results...(so just be careful out there).
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 09:56:35 (PDT)

This is getting silly.

There are only three people on this GB whose words have the effect of law and judgement. Those people are Suzanne Kurtz who owns this GB and the two people she has appointed co-moderators, Claudia and Claire. Anyone else's opinion is exactly that: an opinion and can be accepted or rejected as the reader requires. Or ignored completely. (Hint. Hint.)

Major Tums: I'm afraid I must disagree with you. A perusal of the archives (and not very far back either) will reveal that this GB has never had much problem seperating AR from his characters.

Magda
Canada - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 09:49:10 (PDT)

Harlii, you once posted that you fantasized about Alan as Snape, not Alan as Alan, so I would think that you could relate to those posts that you complain about. Aren't we all to some degree admiring of Alan because of the roles he plays? Actors get a large fan base because they are in movies acting roles. You don't see guestbooks like these for painters, photographers etc., (other types of artists.) Why? Because their type of art isn't conducive to fantasizing. Why? Because their art doesn't enter the realm of make believe and fantasy. Acting does, that's why those artists, (actors), have a bunch of women posting about them in guestbooks. There is no firm delineation between Alan and his characters in this guestbook, there never has been.
Major Tums
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 09:38:15 (PDT)

Ja, ja "schie� dem Fenster", so h�rt sich mein Englisch an, ich wei�. Thanks very much for your help, everyone. Mortianna, Du wei�t, dass ich nicht alles versteh' und nicht in jeder Situation das Lexikon dabei hab', aber manches versteht man ja zum Gl�ck auch aus dem Zusammenhang.
lelefua
stuttgart, germany - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 09:28:39 (PDT)

Ensnaring Snape and Col. Gruber, it's so nice that you've gathered a mourner's bench for your poor hurt feelings. All you had to do was cut the crap (the nonsensical declarations of love for CHARACTERS) and move on. Pardon me for not choosing to ignore it and just keep scanning over piles and piles of your floccinaucinihilipilification.
Harlii
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 09:16:38 (PDT)

lelefua -ich glaub, poppen w�rd himkommen.
und du solltest gebildeter sein:-) du hast das schon gelesen...
mortianna
germans?wot?where?, schiessdemfenster - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 08:47:26 (PDT)

CG: Will do, next time I see him!! Barbara: I could tell you some german synonyms for "to shag", but I'm afraid to be the cause of another discussion..., so I'll better not pot them here. But if you are really interested, send me an E-mail! Btw, is there a german invasion taking plance in this GB???
black-sheriff <keunecke-dreixler@web.defoo>
germany - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 08:36:01 (PDT)

lelufa

"Shag" is a British English slang word. It means sexual intercourse.

We Americans have a word that means the same thing, but Suzanne doesn't like us to use it on the guest book (insert one of Harlii's emoticons here *heh*).

I wish I knew the German word for it -- but my german cursing is limited strictly to scatalogical terms...
Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 08:27:01 (PDT)

Dear concerned citizen,
I'm curious about which of the films you liked most?
And still guessing what's sh___? sorry
lelefua
stuttgart, germany - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 08:20:24 (PDT)

Major Tums, thank you for the post. It got a great laugh out of me, and a laugh was what I needed right now. I also wish to thank everyone extremely for their support. I view and thought that this guestbook was a place for discussion of Alan's works and to just post and have fun. Like the others said, if we just talked about only his works and didn't have fun here posting about other things and chatting with other Rickmaniacs, we would all be dead and dry. I'm not going to leave, and I'm going to take part in this GB, but it will take me a while to get cooled off. Okay, maybe I was posting too much about Snape, but forgive me, that is something that happens to me when I'm having a lot fun, which I haven't had in a while, thanks to my real life being near-hell right now (excuse the term). Harlii, I am not going to get into a shouting match with you and you are entitled to your own opinion, so, unless something else comes up for some reason, I will not be saying anything more on this subject. Once again, to ES and everyone else who posted their opinions about this and defended me, I say extreme thanks. Oh a hopefully happier note, black-sheriff, say hello to Hans for me! ~CG~
ColonelGruber
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 07:52:54 (PDT)

uuh,schlechte Stimmung im Haus! ...
verena
- Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 06:37:17 (PDT)

I always thought that this GB has got room for everything, serious discussions about Alan Rickman as well as some jokes. So what is this fighting all about?
Kristin
Germany - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 06:27:12 (PDT)

Uuups, spelling mistake. It was meant to be "glad", well... I know i'm a new-commer here, but I'd like to sy taht I enjoy the serious discussions as much as the excitement. And I'd surely miss ES and CG if they would leave (Please don't!) What's wrong with sharing your phantasies (after all that's what it is!) with some co-maniacs? Cheer up, all of you. Sunny greetings from Germany.
black-sheriff
Germany - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 04:18:58 (PDT)

Ensnaring-Snape, I was gald to read that you consider comming back. Please do!! And tell me how you liked Dogma.
black-sheriff
germany - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 04:13:31 (PDT)

Duplicates deleted.
Suz (D.o.C.)

Oh my God! 3 times monster-posting... I better leave now, before you all kill me... ;-)) Have a nice day, we have a lovely sunny autumn-day today and I send you some sunbeams. @FastFilm: If you want to discuss german films, you can send me an email: Eustacia.Vye@web.de
Lisa
Bavaria, - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 03:00:04 (PDT)

Sorry for posting it twice!
Lisa
Bavaria, - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 02:56:00 (PDT)

Off Topic- Lisa in Bavaria, I have a "global economy" question. Were the American "Austin Powers" movies released in Germany? Would the extreme Anglophile tone of these movies be considered humorous where you live? (Topic came up because of your asking of the word "shag." A big joke in those films.) For instance, "Les Visiteurs" was remade for the American market with its 2 original stars but the rest as an American cast, slight story tweaking, and in English. I guess this is preferable to dubbing and changing humorous dialogue to untranslatable non-jokes. But one can't find a copy of "Les Visiteurs" here... FastFilm ______________________________ Hi FastFilm, yes Austin Powers was released in Germany and it was a big success. I�m not really a Austin Powers fan, but I liked Waynes World so much. The most jokes are understood in Germany. The sitcomes which are successful in America are successful here, too. We have so much american movies, series here, we can handle the jokes. We don�t need undertitles, because we get it all in a synchronized version and many famous actors have their special voices/speakers. Alan Rickmans german voices are always different :-((, but I like to hear him original ;-)). There are many films which were re-maked for the american market: 3 men and a baby with Tom Selleck for example. It was nice with Tom Selleck, but the original french version was more charming. In the american version were more action. The film with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny de Vito, were Schwarzenegger is pregnant, was usually a german comedy with Mike Kr�ger and Susanne Uhlen. With a different ending, because Mike Kr�ger awaked discovering it was just a bad dream. Sometimes it�s a pity, that people in other countries don�t get the chance to see the original movie, just a adapted version for their country... But often, other countries have a problem to understand the german humour... "Der bewegte Mann" for example with Till Schweiger (= the german guy from Judas Kiss). It was a great success in the german speaking countries, but americans didn�t understand it. http://www.geocities.com/mishaca/articles/art0009.html Sorry for my monster-posting. ;-)) Bye and Servus Lisa
Lisa
Bavaria, - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 02:55:22 (PDT)

**polite cough** Well where to start? I awake thismorning to some lovely messages here and in my inbox. It appears there are some kind people out there. To them (you know who you are) I say a shy but grateful �thank you�.

To Harlii, I can say only this. Your insults I can accept as being valid if a little over-the-top. I will not however, whatever your reasons, tolerate you insulting other people through their �associations� with me.

Colonel Gruber and I have had no contact outside of this GB to date, but I have quickly grown fond of her humour and spirit, along with several other posters here. She did not deserve your foul accusations and as such I felt compelled to return this morning to defend her. Insult me all you like, but leave others out of this.

I won�t get dragged into a slanging match with you however, what�s said is said and you are entitled to your opinion. But there are ways of expressing them which might have been taken less personally.

As I�ve mentioned before, I feel there is room here for all levels of discussion in sensible proportions. From the emails and postings overnight I�d say I was not alone in that opinion. But for a few days I will be stepping back from the board to let the dust settle. I�ll continue to read the posts here because I enjoy them, and I�ll return when I�ve regained my sense of humour, but for now I�m going to catch up on a few things including watching Dogma and Rasputin.

Thanks to those who cared enough to share their views.

ES
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 22:51:54 (PDT)

Anne: I will e-mail you re the photo.

The steps to reach the deleted potions class scene on the HP & TSS DVD are:

1. On the opening screen on Disc Two, select Diagon Alley (Hedwig)

2. Put the selector thingy on Gringotts, then press down selecting the Key, click to get to the Gringotts area, then select the Galleon, Sickle, and Knut and click

3. Now you should be back at the main page for Diagon Alley, go to Ollivander's and have fun selecting your wand (not sure if it's the same for every DVD)

4. Go back to the main screen and select the wand and click, getting to the classrooms

5. Select Transfiguration (the cat), then hit down to select the Owls on the Torch, then hit up to select the H on a Shield. Click

6. At Fluffy, select the Flute and click

7. At the Keys, select the Silver one in the middle with a bent wing (its the only one that is completely over the door in the background)

8. At the Bottles (which were not in the Movie) select the round one with the yellow liquid

9. Select the Red Stone in the Mirror to get to the cut scenes(*seven altogether*)

Scene 1 - Smeltings uniform

Scene 2 - Letters in Eggs

Scene 3 - Hagrid and Harry on the Underground

Scene 4 - Harry and Ron befriend Hermione

Scene 5 - More Christmas

Scene 6 - Dumbledore's Card and Neville's legbinding

Scene 7 - Extended Potions Class

Kimberly
Michigan USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 22:31:21 (PDT)

Someone posted the answer to this a LONG time ago but I only just bought the Harry Potter DVD - how do you bypass those maddening games and get to the outtakes?

Kimberly/Michigan - I can send you an undated photo of a rather young AR in a leather jacket - don't remember where it came from, though. agilhuly "at" gibsondunn "dotcom"

Which reminds me - I read something over the weekend about how spammers operate and it said that the bots that search sites like this for email addresses search for the "at" symbol. Possible to reconfigure the email address box to replace the "@" with some other symbol so that we could go back to posting our addresses?
Anne/Manhattan
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 22:07:33 (PDT)

You are very funny Major Tums! Thanks for the laugh--I needed it!
Cheryl
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 20:59:19 (PDT)

British Friends and Friends Around the World, do you have Ben & Jerry's ice cream? Chunky Monkey is an ice cream flavor.
Major Tums
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 20:54:12 (PDT)

Ensnaring Snape and Colonel Gruber, I enjoyed reading your posts the past week(s). I thought they were bubbling over with enthusiasm and were fun to read. Fresh blood as they say, needed and welcomed. Occasionally, things get rather dry around here, and your posts were a respite. One or two people said something that hurt your feelings and I'm sorry that happened. There are the rest of us however. You weren't being insulting to anyone, whoever didn't like your posts should just deal with it. If we really only discussed Alan's work, wouldn't we all just shrivel up and die after awhile? Die Hard was his best work, the nuance of it was so esoterically obfuscating...no,no,no, I beg to differ, it was Truly, Madly, Deeply where his star shone as no other star ever shone...nay, nay, nay it was Stupor and Stuporability where he leaned against that wall and moaned with such moanability that my own soul cried out and I stabbed myself in the thigh with my spoon so full of Chunky Monkey...
Major Tums
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 20:44:44 (PDT)

I'm curious.....Has anyone ever seen a picture of AR prior to his appearance in "Romeo & Juliet?" I think that's the earliest photo I've ever seen. I'd love to see photos of him pre-age 30.
Kimberly
Michigan USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 19:22:01 (PDT)

Sonny Strait, one of the voice actors in Dragonball Z, and a major artist working for ElfQuest, had this to say about fan feedback:

...most fan comments come in 2 forms. There is the �Oh, my god! You rule!� form and there is the �You suck! Die! Die!� form. Neither should be believed. If you take stock in either of those you�ll stop improving or give up.

I'd like to think that's AR's attitude, too. :D
Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 18:30:49 (PDT)

Gee, Harlii, relax ,please. This is such a wonderful guestbook and as a (more or less) public forum open to everyone and their oppinion, even if it's mentioned more then once (or even twice). I don't post a lot here, but I enjoy reading (almost) everything. (Major Tums -thanks for the laugh) And yes,you do come over a little harsh-unprovoked no less. Please,just try to be a little more flexible.Thank you. -Eni
Eni
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 18:03:07 (PDT)

Harlii,

OT a bit. E-mail me when you get a chance. Nothing SOS, just a lil chat.

Gillejc@auburn.edu

Thanks muchas!
Jayne Claire
AL - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 17:42:08 (PDT)

AR is the best lookin british actor ever!!!! he is the greatest
rainie
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 17:05:23 (PDT)

I'm inclined to agree with Harlii here. I love reading all about Alan; about the way we enjoy his appearance, charisma, his voice, etc., as well as his work, but there's a limit, ladies. There are plenty of Yahoo sites for Snape salivating (yahoo being the operative word, LOL)
Gaye
Adelaide, South Australia - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 17:03:41 (PDT)

Oh, Col. Gruber? You're the other one spamming up the place. Is that rude too? Because it's true. I've wondered for the past few days if you were both doing it on purpose to make people angry. And just because one person or a few people say your constant slavering over Snape (as opposed to Alan Rickman) is annoying is no reason to leave with one's tail between the legs. Just post to the stated subject at the top of the board.
Harlii
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 16:52:55 (PDT)

A new review of HPCoS has been posted at something called The Facer. Not to get your hopes up but AR gets one line: "Rickman is excellent but underutilized." There, now go read about everyone else.

I'm rather surprised that Ensnaring Snape might be gone from the GB. She had a very impressive site, or rather sites, and I do hope she reconsiders after a good night's sleep.

Magda
Canada - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 16:38:16 (PDT)

Sorry I haven't posted today guys, I have been gone all day. Forgive me for butting in, but I have to say something here and state my opinion. I will try not to be rude, and forgive me if I am, but I was very offended by what you said to ES, Harlii. Though I don't know her very well I have become quite fond of her and am extremely sorry to see her leave. I know she is much more offended than I am, but I am angry for how rude you were to her. Anyone who has created a new site and is getting great reviews from everybody would be quite excited. I would be. Just because someone posts a lot about a subject isn't a reason to critisize them. If we get tired of hearing about a certain subject, at least we can present it to them nicely about it. Forgive me once again if I come across rude, but I am trying to state how much this offended me. I am extremely sorry to see her go and hope that if she returns, she won't be treated as rudely. ES, you still have a friend here if you come back. CG
ColonelGruber
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 16:17:21 (PDT)

OT to Ali-Pat, GML and Barbara the W- "It is all part of Life's Rich Pagent"- Inspector Clouseau (while emerging from falling off a balcony into a fountain) and R.E.M.(as obvious tribute.) Although others try tirelessly to steer us to the work oeuvre of Monsieur Rickman, I appreciate that the GBers who gravitate to his style/intelligence and artfulness also seem to share the humor, whimsical intellectualism and opinionated good taste of my university years! Jean Reno and Monty Python sort of fit here. P.S. the best English subtitles translation that keeps the puns and jokes is still "Ridicule." Amazing translating job: why can't everyone try that hard to get it right?
FastFilm
Los Angeles, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 16:04:49 (PDT)

Don't be dramatic Snape. I'm just one person who had enough of "I have a site." "Have you seen my site?" "Did I mention I have a site?" That's all I mean when I say *spam*.
Harlii
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 15:18:04 (PDT)

Yes, AR's performance was great in Die Hard. It's just not my favourite genre, otherwise I would have been thrilled! There were some very nice twists and turns that made the theftpart ingenious.

I love Sense and Sensibility, not least because it has a happy ending. AR is wonderful as Col. Brandon.
Inger
Gothenburg, Sweden - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 15:08:50 (PDT)

One of the funniest stage door interactions was when the male fan stated "I think that Die Hard is the best thing that you have ever done!" No comment from Rickman-probably quite a bit of discussion afterwards with his peers, though. The poor stage door young man didn't even realize what he was saying "the best thing you did was your first movie and everything else is second best." At least the comment was made at the stage door of PL instead of A&C-Rickman might have assaulted the poor chappie.....ps-my preference would be that the gentleman want to "get to know me" rather than the other way around, and that would be an exercise in futility, so why waste my energy.....
a concerned citizen
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 15:07:06 (PDT)

Spamming? Really? Well its so nice to feel appreciated. For your information, this is the only site I've bothered to put my site onto, under the delusion that this was a place for people who appreciated Alan Rickman, and enjoyed viewing picures of some of his work. I don't get anything from it other than enjoyment at providing people like you with something to look at. This site did so for me and I thought it would be nice to give something back. Obviously I was mistaken.

I've given you all umpteen opportunities to tell me to get lost because equally I didn't want to appear to be pushing in on something that I was not welcome into. You've now made it quite clear this is a club for exclusive membership only.

Pity, since there are a lot of people here that I have become quite fond of. But I know when to bow out, and that's now. Thanks for your support everyone.

ES
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:58:41 (PDT)

If you British AR fans haven't got your tickets to HP:CoS yet, you might want to hurry; according to CNN anyway:

Tickets for the long-awaited "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" went on sale across Britain on Friday. The film hits cinema screens in Britain and the United States on November 15.

Advance ticket sales for the sequel, which again stars Daniel Radcliffe in the title role, are expected to surpass those of the record-breaking first Harry Potter film. Odeon, Britain's largest cinema chain, was deluged with phone calls Friday from fans clamoring for tickets to the sequel.

"We have had to triple staff at our call centres," an Odeon spokeswoman told Reuters. "We're expecting sales to be even higher than they were for the first film because the second book is even more popular."
Magda
Canada - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:54:41 (PDT)

Jacques Roux... now I'm not a historian so I'm more than happy to be corrected, but to my knowledge he is remembered as a 'real' revolutionary, or the 'red priest' : a leader, or rather the most gifted speaker of a somewhat disorganized movement of people who thought that social injustice should be totally abolished in France (as opposed to the main well-off bourgeois-led revolutionary movement who did not care that much about the poor but really wanted the aristocracy to be replaced by... themselves). And a wonderful performance by Mr Rickman too. (Oh, and if you want to know, he ended up being sentenced to death for his beliefs and stabbed himself to death in prison)

GML
UK - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:53:39 (PDT)

Georgiana, would you clarify your comment about "Wetherby" -- specifically, about realizing "he" was in the film, albeit in a miniscule role? Do you mean Rickman? I haven't seen the film... perhaps I will if I can find it.
Christine
USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:50:34 (PDT)

Oh, my!
I haven't read this GB for a couple of days and how much there is to catch up with! I really want to see Dogma after all these interesting comments!

Ensnaring Snape, your site is getting better and better! Lovely content in beautiful surroundings!
Inger
Gothenburg, Sweden - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:45:33 (PDT)

Ensnaring Snape, it's not my job to steer the discussion to what it should already be. You've been spamming this board for days, so don't be offended by anyone being sick of it.

Die Hard was great, IMHO. First major film with a major American star and AR held his own. Sense and Sensibility was a more subtle performance to me, yet still just as great as DH. I remembered the Col.'s character more than Willoughby's.
Harlii
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:43:13 (PDT)

I'll do that for you, Ensnaring Snape. Now, let's see, In Die Hard, I believe Alan Rickman's performance was great. There are those who think it was very good, and then again those who would vote for just "good". In Sense and Sensibility, I'd say his performance was very good. Who out there would say "great", anyone? Anyone for "good"? I believe all future performances of Alan Rickman will likely fall into the "very good" to "great" categories. Any dissenters?
Major Tums
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:35:16 (PDT)

Constance--Jacques Roux is an elusive subject. The websites I have found do not give much more than a thumbnail sketch, and most of them are in French, which my HS knowledge of French does not equip me to translate. The books on the French Revolution I have scanned mention him only briefly as well. There is an article in a book called The Left and the French Revolution entitled, "Jacques Roux, A Victim of Vilification" (Humanities Press, 1995, Morris Slavin ed.) which you might find interesting. Also, I discovered that Peter Weiss wrote Jacques Roux into his play, Marat/Sade, which is a real treat, especially if you listen to the RSC production on tape.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:30:59 (PDT)

Fastfilm, and whoever it was talking about Les Visiteurs... Pleaaase don't judge the original movie by the American version (Just visiting) which is really a pathetic re-write played by actors who are a bit tired of it all and have lost their enthusiasm. A perfect example of Hollywood not knowing where to leave a good thing where it is and trying to squeeze as much money out of it as possible, till it's dry, bland and floppy. The French version was original, very, very funny, and underneath the obvious scenario, it was a hilarious satire of French middle-class attitudes (mostly thanks to the hilarious Val�rie Lemercier)(who knew better than to appear in any of the sequels). The actors enjoyed it (OK, I have a soft spot for Jean Reno) and their enjoyment was contagious. I went to see it 4 times in France, and believe me, I don't do that often (Oh, OK, I saw Private Lives once or twice ;). Now when I saw the American version of les Visiteurs , I never smiled once. The rumour in France is that the producers are really ashamed of it, but had to do it, for commercial reasons. OK, I agree that dubbing is a terrible thing to do to any work of art, and that subtitles don't always work and maybe an adaptation is sometimes the answer... but in this case it should be complete, with native actors and situations. You see I also went to see the French original version in an English cinema, complete with English subtitles, and the subtitles were indeed as good as they could be - but some things just cannot be translated. The French members of the public rolled on the floor laughing, the English guys smiled politely. Maybe we should just accept that although there are universal forms of humour (Eddie Izzard comes to mind), certain forms of humour are specific to some cultures and cannot be totally grasped by non-natives. All part of the great human diversity ...
GML
UK - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 14:30:49 (PDT)

Barbara - I'm sure the thought of having intimate relations with any single person on this guestbook would fill AR with equal amounts of cringe-factor as it does for you.

Now perhaps Harlii would care to steer us back onto a topic of her own choosing since she's sick of this particular direction.

ES
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 13:59:15 (PDT)

Age doesn't matter to me, but I love my SO and I haven't even met AR in reality.

A friend of mine lent me Die Hard. Now I realize the discussions about his height, since he looks rather short in some scenes. I guess it's that costume. The movie was better than I had expected, but not any favourite of mine.
Inger
Gothenburg, Sweden - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 13:53:21 (PDT)

(Blush), not as ashamed as I am, Julia... My only defense is that my memory of the TV shows is stronger than the films as I have seen the films less often than the TV episodes.

And besides, this tired old brain is full to bursting with my current obsession.

(sorry--end of OT comments).
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 13:44:50 (PDT)

The very idea of actually having intimate relations with a man who's the same age as my mother -- makes me want to sew my knees together.

Sorry, but there it is....
Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 12:44:17 (PDT)

Fastfilm --

"Les Visiteurs" is available in the US! A friend of mine, who is very into All Things French, has a copy of it.

The original is *much* funnier, innit?

We paired it that day with "The Advocate" (with a very young, very skinny Colin Firth). A very naked Colin Firth..... *la la la la la la la*
Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 12:42:45 (PDT)

Constance, go to Google.com and search for "Jacques Roux". He was a historical figure and pops up on a number of sites.
Magda
Canada - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 12:29:02 (PDT)

I hate to be a bitch, but all these seemingly endless posts about being in love with various characters of ARs and personal chit chat relating to the same (between two or three posters) is driving me nuts...and I'm usually the one to say "go for it", but it's really overboard today ladies. If you do a search for Alan Rickman you can find several other boards where this kind of lusting takes place and is welcomed. I even have a board. But up there it states specifically that this GB is to discuss ARs work past and present and while infrequent off topic discussions are usually ignored/accepted, whatever, this constant barrage of hormones is getting on my nerves and I assure you nothing is wrong with my Alan Shag Moniter...it's just really too much.
Harlii
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 12:29:01 (PDT)

OT--Ali-Pat, I'm ashamed you haven't gotten the reference! Holy Grail... The heir to the castle, and all he wants to do is sing... With the fat bride... And the ensuing massacre...
Julia
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 12:03:27 (PDT)

Hi! One question: Does anybody know if You can buy Dark Harbor in Germany?
Kristin
Germany - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 11:45:56 (PDT)

Lily--I think AR's firm was called "Graphiti" (slightly different spelling).
Ali-Pat
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 11:34:23 (PDT)

OFF TOPIC:

Would someone here be able to give me some historical background concerning The Preacher, Jacques le Rue (forgive possible mis-spelling)??? I have watched the video-gram (thanks Sue!) and am now full of questions!
Constance
USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 11:33:12 (PDT)

Message for Colonel Gruber: We havn't heard much from you today. I hope you're not really sad about Snape - hey we all want what we can't have, you just get used to it as you get old (like me haha!). I've taken on board your request for a Hans Gruber site, but it'll be a while yet. Perhaps we could do a vote on which character I should do next. Thanks for visiting btw.
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 11:27:55 (PDT)

Major Turn, you were posting while I was writing. Let me tell you, I could give ex-Pres Jimmy Carter lessons on how to improve on sinning with mental images! Hope there's a person or two on this GB who is old enough to recall how Jimmy admitted his mental infidelities to Roslyn.
Lily
Chicago, IL - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 11:06:14 (PDT)

Just bits of trivia to add to Guest Book discussions over the past week. I noticed that a graphic arts firm named "Grafiti" (forgive mis-spelling) did the font and graphics style for the credits to "Dogma". Wasn't that the name of AR's graphic arts firm? If the firm Grafiti isn't still in business with new owners (miracle if it is), might AR have had a hand in the text design for the credits and have used his old business name as a cover? AR might have wanted to work with Kevin Smith, in part, because of their shared graphic arts background.

(I can't be the first person to have thought this) I think AR in costume as Snape resembles John Lennon. A subliminal but powerfully appealing image that I think they've played around with.

For those of you who've seen, and enjoyed, the Cohen Brothers' "The Great Lebowski" who do you think played the part of "The Dude" (Duder, El Duderino) at the NYC bowling alley?!! Do you suppose anyone ever lapsed into John Turturro's part? Would have been a blast to overhear some of that boys' group humor. As I think about it, what a coincidence that Jeff Bridges' interview was paired with AR's on the Charlie Rose repeat.
Lily
Chicago, IL - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 10:57:26 (PDT)

ps. Lets not all assume that everyone here is a female. Alan has a male following too, whether you like it or not. Fairs fair in love and war'n all that. (But in case you're wondering I was female last time I looked!)

ES
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 10:37:23 (PDT)

Uh, um, I was doing ok until you got to the bit about wrapping his arms around us and whispering sexy things in our hair. Now all coherent thought seems to have left me...

ES **sitting staring out window with strange vacant expression on face**
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 10:31:57 (PDT)

Bags I stand on her 'ead.
JD
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 10:31:46 (PDT)

If you don't want to shag him please make an appointment immediately for a complete neurological work up. How boring if we only discussed the Great One's talent and never discussed the Great One's body, smile, hair, nose and our desire to have that smile directed at us and those arms around us and that voice murmurring sexy things in our hair right before he kisses us...passionately. This guestbook cannot be solely a dry, intellectual appreciation of AR's talent. There is room for that, and we have proved ourselves worthy of academic debate. But we are women here, with hormones, and the capacity to love. All of us in working order have given ourselves over to absolute pleasure in our minds with Alan. We will swim the waters of sins of the flesh. Ladies, tighten your life preservers, and jump in, the water's fine!(If you knock concerned citizen in it's okay, she needs to get wet.)
Major Tums
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 09:29:18 (PDT)

FastFilm, that exchange sounds maddeningly familiar, but my brain is not yielding the source. One teeny hint, please?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 09:27:51 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, someday this will all be yours. (Whot, the curtains?)
FastFilm
the cast;le, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 09:15:09 (PDT)

Does anyone know if AR has ever declared his favorite role?
Harlii
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 09:00:39 (PDT)

Its really difficult for me to choose a specific thing about The Man that does it for me because its the whole package (relationship w/Rima H and all) that piques my interest.

Yes, his smile is very nice toothy or not.
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 07:49:36 (PDT)

I believe you this, Claudia. And I learned a new english word today... ;-))) Lets talk about his wonderful smile... I�m sure, I�ll get weak knees, if he�ll ever smile to me... I wonder, if his "wife" (I know, they aren�t married) ever gets immune against this smile?
Lisa
Bavaria, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 07:36:11 (PDT)

I hope my comments about "The Shag Response" were taken in the spirit in which they were intended (i.e. humorous). I am afraid years of overindulgence in the Marx Brothers and Monty Python have left me with a heightened sense of the absurd. Sorry if I rubbed anyone the wrong way. If it ever seems that way, please consider the essentially harmless source.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 07:30:26 (PDT)

Just to clarify a little, Lisa. The "shagging" of The Man is all in fun. I by no means would even consider doing something like that since I am in a very committed and loving relationship with the most awesome man God ever put on the face of this earth.
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 06:24:48 (PDT)

Thank you, Magda! Well, I don�t think Mr. Rickman wants anybody of the guestbook-writers to ... If I ever meet him, I will be thankful for an autograph and a nice smile from him.
Lisa
Bavaria, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 06:20:45 (PDT)

No? Damn I needed some entertainment, I'm bored (supposed to be working) :-/
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 06:13:20 (PDT)

What makes you think you started a fight, ES? Did I miss something????
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 06:05:23 (PDT)

Cool! Now I've started a fight! I'm lovin' this guestbook!
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 06:03:12 (PDT)

Ohhh loosen up and have some fun, Magda. Gawd!
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 06:00:49 (PDT)

Well I'm soooo glad I didn't manage to bring the tone down then...! What was I thinking?! LOL

ES
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 05:51:14 (PDT)

"To shag" someone means to have sexual relations with them. And no, not all of us want to or even understand why others do. And speaking personally I don't understand why people feel almost compelled to post the same desire over and over again on the GB. Say it once, get it out of your system and proceed to other topics.
Magda
Canada - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 05:47:56 (PDT)

What means "to shag someone"? I can�t find it in my dictionary and the translator-programme in the internet doesn�t really help me as well... Is there a synonym, that a stupid bavarian woman can understand? ;-)) Would Mr. Rickman be pleased to be shaged by his fans? He seems to like staying in distance to the fans. ;-))
Lisa
Bavaria, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 05:30:12 (PDT)

Yes, JT. Roth was offered the role of Snape first but only because it was thought that AR would not consider it. So after Roth turned it down, they thought "Hey, all he can do is say no!"
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 05:11:42 (PDT)

Well of course we all want to shag him. But we slyly couch our desires in pseudo-intellectual discussions about his characters and motives and noble ambitions. It's all in code! Only the initiates know what we are really talking about here. (meanders over to light candle at AR shrine and intone secret words).

No, Constance, those words about the lifetime of disappointment that follows the realization of the dream are not mine. But thanks for thinking of me.

And Julia--you have been visiting those S&M Snape sites again, you naughty girl!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 05:06:36 (PDT)

Is this true? Alan was given the role of Severus Snape, only after Tim Roth backed out.
JT <justday22@hotmail.comfoo>
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 04:52:58 (PDT)

I thought we all wanted to shag him! Some just more seriously than others.
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 03:52:41 (PDT)

It's raining in Germany and it's a very bad weather. I surf and find your fantastic homepage, bookmarked it and will be back! Thank you for the resources. Keep up the good work! Greetings from " Krankenversicherung Hans "
Krankenversicherung
germany - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 03:09:16 (PDT)

Hey! I do.....where do we line up?
Mesmer's Patient
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 01:50:21 (PDT)

not even sideways.
a concerned citizen
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 01:50:04 (PDT)

No, I don't want to shag him, thank you for asking
a concerned citizen
- Monday, September 30, 2002 at 01:47:44 (PDT)

Why's that, poppet? Don't YOU want to shag him?
Jules
UK - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 01:43:38 (PDT)

You want to WHAT him? I hope it�s something you can write here without being censored! ;-)))))))))))
Lisa
Bavaria, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 01:04:50 (PDT)

I think that we all enjoy seeing new sites and pictures of Mr. Rickman and expressing our appreciation of his talents-perhaps just a bit less of the OMGHISSIWTSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!{translation-OH MY GOD HE IS SO SEXY I WANT TO SH__ HIM!!!!!!}
a concerned citizen
- Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 23:29:40 (PDT)

Concerned Citizen - I feel I should appologise for inducing a small amount of excitement on this page with my Sheriff site. By all means please get back on topic. I do feel though that there is room here for people to voice their opinions both on AR's unquestionable talent and on people's attraction to him or his characters.

Perhaps I'm wrong, maybe some of the long-term members here would like to voice their opinions on where this page should go from here. Is there another guestbook that perhaps us less serious folk should retire to? I like it here, and I enjoy all the more serious reviews as much as the light-hearted comments, but I'd hate to be the cause of unrest in the ranks.

**Bows gracefully and awaits a stoning**
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 22:52:56 (PDT)

'ello all! Brand spanking new fan from the Colonies here! Though angels are ill-equipped, I think AR makes a dead-sexy Metatron (he can walk on water to me anytime!), and I can hardly wait to see more of AR's good guys--but you know how we good girls love the bad boys . . . To borrow a phrase from a very good bad girl: 'when "The Voice" is good, he''s very, very good--but when he's bad he's even better . . .'
Lynne Adele <lynneh@wans.netfoo>
New York, NY USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 21:04:54 (PDT)

This is somewhat on topic. I have the DVD of the first Harry Potter, and I'm able to remember the game right up to the 3rd potion (to cure a boil) but I cannot remember that one nor any that follow.

Needless to say I'm having a senior moment and beg the help of someone who remembers all the potions mixes so I can get to see the additional footage of Our Good Professor helping Harry.

Can some kind soul send the answers via E-mail? I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.
Anne <ahard73977@aol.comfoo>
Alexandria, VA USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 19:39:59 (PDT)

I did mean to thank Georgiana for the spellcheck, etc.....I must be sleepy..........Good Night! zzzzzzzzzz
Constance.....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 19:37:53 (PDT)

Well, thank you for the spellcheck ( my spelling is becoming notorious!) and for the quick Greek Mythology revue. Heaven knows what some my have thought of my podiatrical metaphor! LOL But, really... I hope none have taken offense to what I wrote earlier. I was in no way suggesting that we women want to be abused, but rather dominated by a love more powerful than our own egos! But, as someone said earlier, (was it Ali-Pat?)even that moment of surrender, so glorious in the moment, once played out as a relationship........ quickly becomes disfunctional. As for AR himself, being a champion for women's rights, yes... this I know to be true but still...... I could not deny that his presence, his spirit was something else. He cannot help it, it is beyoond him, really...what his spirit projects outward. I know that he is still quite baffled by our fascination for he views himself in quite a different light. But I do not want to suggest that I know all this from experience, just a quess. :~)
Constance
NC USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 19:36:03 (PDT)

In that picture that Magda(Canada) linked to, it almost looks like Snape is wearing a corset, which is an interesting development, and is likely to keep my mind in the gutter for a long, long time!
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 18:49:47 (PDT)

Ensnaring Snape, you're not lowering the tone, as a matter of fact, we've had this discussion before. I remember Lelefua posting awhile back on this. She said something to the effect that Snape is alluring because he is masculine and feminine (long robes, long,loose hair). We don't know if he is a protective or threatening. Lelefua, are you out there? You said it so much better that I can remember.
TL
- Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 17:25:01 (PDT)

All those Sheriff fans out there please PAY ATTENTION! For your exclusive viewing pleasure, sister site to EnsnaringSnape has just been born - "House of Nottingham". Please pop in and say hello (the Guestbook links to the ensnaringsnape site, and I'd really appreciate happy comments from anyone who stops by). Get to it from my home page (to avoid geocities ads):

http:www.ensnaringsnape.com

Or if you're in a hurry and don't mind ads

http://www.geocities.com/houseofnottingham

One word of warning, geocities (bless them) limit downloads so no doubt the site'll be blocked on occasion when people are pinching my lovely photos & sound clips of Nottingham!! :-) If this happens, just try back in an hour.

Its been a long few days but I think you'll like it. Let me know if you have problems with it. I think I know every single expression AR did in RHPOT having edited all those screen shots - and these were only the best ones!

Ensnaring Snape. Tired, emotional and off to bed! :-/
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 15:17:08 (PDT)

GML--excellent analyses of the Sheriff and Snape personae. I agree completely! Perhaps Snape's body being hidden beneath all those clothes is a metaphor for how his private life is also hidden? Imagining what the real Snape might be like, body and soul, sets the creative mind afire. Often it is what we cannot see that tempts us most.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 14:48:11 (PDT)

Dear Mary, you must be really, really, really frustrated! But you are among friends here--one way or another we have all been overcome by the power of those amber eyes.

Georgiana, thanks for your comments about Wetherby. I also found it a disturbing film, which is why I wanted to hear some other viewpoints on it, tangential tho it might be to AR's film canon. I had to get the screenplay to really figure it all out, and even now I'm not sure what is really happening in this film. Yet, there is so much atmosphere in the film, and there is such a strong cast. I spent half the film being confused about who Joely Richardson was supposed to be playing--I thought she was playing Jean's daughter, not a younger version of Jean. And I had to laugh out loud when I realized where I had seen the actor who plays John Morgan before--he's Sir Percy Percy from the Blackadder shows! But that was about the ONLY thing about this film that made me laugh.

It is a memorable film, if confusing. And I encourage you all to see it and draw your own conclusions. And share them, of course!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 14:35:47 (PDT)

It's just occoured to me what a frustrated lot we seem to be! I'm not complaining! I'm just glad I'm not the only one. Untill I found this website I was in serious doubt about my sanity ( I'm still not sure) especially when I look at those wonderful hazel eyes. He must have had contact lenses in for Snape as his eyes are very dark. I like looking at peoples eyes you can tell a lot.

I have two very lovely photos of Alan on my computer as a background thanks to Tami Chapmans photo pages. I don't turn on my computer, I wind Alan up! Now theres a thought to conjure with!. It's worth it just to look at his eyes never mind anything else. Excuse me I must take a cold shower and lie down in a darkened room. I've just checked my spelling mistakes there is definatly no hope I'm lost.
Mary <m-kerman@connectfree.co.ukfoo>
uk - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 14:23:52 (PDT)

Yes, Ali-Pat, have seen "Wetherby." In fact, it was my reading of the jacket to the "Blind Corner" tapes that made us realize he'd been in the film, although it took several watchings to actually catch his miniscule role. Alarming film. And, Constance, I think you meant "Achilles' heel." This was the Greek God Achilles, the son of Thetis and Peleus, the bravest hero in the Trojan war. When Achilles was born, his mother tried to make him immortal by dipping him in the river Styx. As she immersed him, she held him by one heel and forgot to dip him a second time so the heel she held could get wet too. The place where she held him remained untouched by the magic water and stayed mortal or vulnerable. He was killed by Paris in the Trojan War by an arrow to that heel.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 12:57:49 (PDT)

Ah, all this is interesting... I once read a perfectly respectable national survey which said that a high percentage of women fantasized about rape. (No, no, not you of course ;). Yet, as we know, 0.00 % of the women unfortunate enough to go through the real experience enjoyed it. Maybe most women feel an urge to be 'dominated', as some ancestral physical need (reproduction 'n all that, you know) but... but surely, in reality, many women (I'm not saying 'most' because observation tells me most can't) are perfectly able to see macho pigs for what they are and feel no attraction whatsoever to them? As for feminists, they are not women who hate men, are they? They are women (and men) campaigning for equal rights. What would there be for them to melt or be defensive against in the presence of Alan Rickman? He seems to be very much aware of feminist and other justice issues and that is one reason why many women like him indeed. Any falling apart in his presence (or any other 'idol') is probably due to, I dunno... to a lot of emotion? Meeting for the first time somebody you have focused a lot of feelings on for a long time is clearly a strange, slightly un-natural, and probably (physically) stressful experience. Of course, the Sheriff is another matter: perfect fantasy material, and of course perfect game for feminists... and Constance, I'm sure many women's heels (including yours) would know exactly where to kick him, if he was real! :)) But he is not, and indeed that makes all the difference. As for Snape... Well, we don't really know that much about him, and this is where the female imagination comes in. I wonder if Rowling realized how attractive a character he was going to be (I say 'character' because he proved a very popular fictional character and there were several websites devoted to him long before AR got the part). I don't think she meant him to be attractive at all, which is interesting: he seems to have escaped from his creator's lead and taken on a life of his own...

GML
UK - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 12:52:33 (PDT)

Wow, that's beautiful! I have always wanted to meet Alan, but I know that if I did I'd be reduced to a simpering blushing gibbering fool. Having said that I'd still love to see him in the flesh. I did send him some artworks I'd done (one day I'll post them on my site) and he signed them for me and sent them back (all the way from NYC!) which was nice! But I don't think meeting him would be a good idea, I'd just hate myself for being me afterwards. At least this way I can convince myself he'd be putty in my hands! :-s

As far as dominating men, its very strange. I find the idea of a Snape or a Sheriff truly thrilling, but I've been involved with a man in the past who's been fairly dominating on the verge of being a control freak and I can tell you its not a pleasant experience. It stays with you for a long time and makes you look at men in a different light. So I'm a firm believer that fantasy and reality should be kept well apart. And if we actually got our fantasy, what would we then fantasise about?

ES
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 10:31:50 (PDT)

What is the mystique of Snape and the other "bad guys" Rickman plays so well? A good question! I believe that we as women have an innate desire to be dominated....not in a bad, chauvanistic way, but to be dominated by love. And somehow, a man such as Rickman, with such self confidence and authority, especially when portraying Snape, brings this out in us. The most militant femenist, I believe, would melt in his presence. All her posturing and defences would vanish before such a man. When I met him last Spring, face to face... I was mad at myself because he reduced me to a tiny, silly school girl and I hated that! I hated myself for feeling that way! But...that is what it is. Can't escape the truth..... His masculinity, in real life as in the form of Snape or Hans or the Sheriff brings out the vulnerability that is within all of us women, whether we want to admit to it or not..... that same vulnerability which makes us the caretakers of the Universe, the nurturers to the suffering and the keepers of all spirit and civilization throughout the ages. What is our greatest asset as women is also our akeles heel and Rickman.........the poisoned arrow!
Constance
Cary, NC USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 10:11:44 (PDT)

Hello? Hello? (tap, tap, is this thing on?)

Has no one else seen the film Wetherby or is everyone outside enjoying a fine autumn weekend?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 10:07:42 (PDT)

CG: Your soooo lucky!!! Haven't found the sheriff, jet. Was distracted by real life :-) But I'll keep on searching... ES: That's great news! I'm waiting impatiently for your new site!! (Will I still be able to sleep...:-)) Major Tumbs: I agree with you that Hans isn't a sympathatic guy (neither is the Sheriff, by the way), but still while watching I can't fight the feeling I wouldn't mind to be held hostage by one of them. It's a stange feeling, but still it is there. I think it's just Alan's charms and sexappeal (especially when he plays the bad guy), you simly can't hate that man. And to be honest: the good boys often aren't the really interesting ones, are they...*runs to hide from furious Bruce Willis Fans*
black-sheriff <keunecke-dreixler@web.defoo>
karlsruhe, Germany - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 09:44:53 (PDT)

Sorry to have lowered the tone recently but while we're considering what's attractive about Snape, has anyone noticed that there is an incredibly fine line between his looking extremely masculine in his costume and his looking quite feminine? I noticed it recently in the COS pics where he doesn't have his cloak on. Somehow he looks more masculine with his cloak. Either way there's something definately attractive about him showing so little flesh. The buttons still do it for me, but the way his cuffs half-cover his hands just drives me nuts!

ahem. Anyway I think you can compare his costume with that of the Sheriff - I've been working on loads of stills from RHPOT this weekend (boy I'm tired!) and his costumes have a lot of similarities in that film. Loads of buttons,loads of black and in most cases fairly limited exposure. Call me strange, but I love that it leaves so much to the imagination. Maybe I've too much imagination for my own good!

That said, I do love him in blue jeans and jumpers and with his hair all sun-kissed blonde. Call me fickle!

Please tell me if I'm lowering the tone of this guestbook, I know most of you want to talk in-depth on film plots. Can't help it. Sorry!

ES
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 09:39:03 (PDT)

Attraction to Snape? I don't wonder why I am attracted to him, I just wonder why I want him to punish me. Calling Drs. Freud, Jung, and Phil!

Such thoughts, and on a Sunday as well...

On another note, am I the only person who can visualize Snape singing the into to Intelligence song from HIAF? (Well, it's about a potion, after all.)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 09:16:52 (PDT)

With Snape coming across so alluring, i think it's actually some deep hidden psychological thing within us all - out of all the characters in HP he wears the least revealing clothes, thus leaving an awful lot to the imagination. I don't know what the thing is about Hans. Or the Sherrif. Or any other of his characters, for that matter. I don't know, maybe it's just The Man Himself. :D
Jizel
- Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 09:06:31 (PDT)

Here's another rather funny pic of AR as Snape watching Malfoy "duel" in Jackie-Chen style in CoS. As the pic is high res, you can see his expression much clearer than in other pics from the trailer:

Snape Watches Malfoy.

Magda
Canada - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 08:18:32 (PDT)

Hey guys, it's Emily. I'm an old poster for those who don't know me or remember me, hehe. But i'm a HUUGGGGGEEE Rickman fan. Anyways, does anyone possibly know how I can get my hands on Help! I'm a fish? I'm dying to see that and John Gissing but i'll figure something out for that one. Tahnks. Btw, nice to meet you all!!
Emily <Dkny9428@aol.comfoo>
NJ USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 07:46:42 (PDT)

Mary - Re John Gissing - If you check those dates I think you will find that 21st Oct was a Sunday LAST year and the 25th is on a Friday this year! John Gissing was at the Raindance festival last year and their Website is a little confusing. They don't appear to have a timetable up for this year yet. I may be wrong but would hate anyone to get their hopes up.
Sue
- Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 06:52:20 (PDT)

Correction to T.S.F.J.G.information the premier is on sun, 21/10 @ 9pm at the metro1. The second showing is on thurs 25/10@ 9am @ the same place. Raindance Film Festival.
Mary <m-kerman@connectfree.co.uk.foo>
UK - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 06:22:15 (PDT)

There�s NO rain in Germany... well... in Bavaria... Our sky is in the bavarian coulours: white and blue (like your background here, but with less white *ggg*). It�s the ideal wheather for a visit on the Wies�n (=Oktoberfest)... Bye and Servus, I�ll send you good vibrations from there ;-)))))))))))))
Lisa
Bavaria, - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 04:11:07 (PDT)

It's raining in Germany and it's a very bad weather. I surf and find your fantastic homepage, bookmarked it and will be back! greetings from Hans
Krankenversicherung
G - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 04:00:26 (PDT)

Ensaring Snape, I did manage the whole lesson without drooling - quite a hard feat actually. My class are 10 and 11 years old - last year at primary school; I'm training them to appreciate talent young! Actually several of them had seen RHPOT too, which I was quite surprised about. I even got last year's class to watch HIAF on video - told them it was a treat (they assumed for them, I really meant for me!!!) Several twigged early on that "that actor you like is doing one of the voices". They are very sweet in indulging their mad old teacher - I have Snape stickers on my pencil tin brought by kids, and a Snape postcard stuck on my wall! Bless 'em!
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 00:10:36 (PDT)

Hey ES. I will email you when I can access my account again, because I can only access it on a certain computer. Just a warning, it will appear under the name "Megan Taylor" because that is a fake name I use. It's the name of a character in a book I write because I jot down ideas and stuff sometimes. To answer Major Tums question about Hans--I'm not sure. It's not a sexual thing, and he doesn't turn me on...I just like him. I believe Hans is one of the best, if not the best in my opinion, performances AR has ever given. I can't really explain it, I can just say it's not anything sexual, I just think AR gives an extroardinary performance and Hans is just my favorite. If that makes any sense.
ColonelGruber
- Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 18:57:28 (PDT)

I love Alan Rickman! He's da bomb! He should keep his hair black like it is in the movie Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Its workin for him!
Dai <Shiningstarrs98@aol.comfoo>
NJ *USA* - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 18:25:46 (PDT)

Dear Kernel and other Hans fans, what is it about Hans that is romantically, sexually attractive? Because Alan is playing him I think Hans is good-looking, but the character of Hans doesn't make me go weak in the knees due to his being a cold-blooded killer. What is it about him that turns you on? Is it a sado-masochistic thing?
Major Tums
- Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 18:03:21 (PDT)

Hi CG. Thanks for the question - my email address is on my home page on my site, which is a good point - I should have put it on my fanfic page too. Another thing to do tommorrow!. Email me b4 you send it though cos I'll need to know what sort of size file we're talking about.

ES
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 15:47:40 (PDT)

Is anybody interested in discussing some of the more obscure items in the Rickman resume? I am talking about things where his on-screen time is so scant as to be microscopic, like Therese Raquin or the Girls on Top episodes or Wetherby. This last I am particulary interested in discussing as I found it such an unusual and thought-provoking film. Granted, our man only appears for a brief few seconds as a talking head on a TV show (the screenplay itdentifies him as "Bearded Man"), but I'm not sure I would have watched it or even heard of it had it not been for that tenuous connection.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 15:47:03 (PDT)

black-sheriff--I found Snape a few minutes ago. It feels very good to kiss him (O_O). Kind of odd, but VERY nice. My knees went out when I did so he had to hold me up :D :D. I kissed him and then he left :(. Didn't even ask me to marry him. I wouldn't mind kissing the Sheriff either, because I adore him. But over all of AR's characters, I'd have to say I'd like to kiss my precious terrorist Hans, for he's my ultimate fave :D. Or Colonel Brandon (another victim of Brandon's charm ;).). Or anybody for that matter! With that in mind...*goes looking forHans* One more thing--EnsnaringSnape, what is your email address? Is it on your site? Because you mentioned something about uploading fanfictions and stuff and I had one (Snape, of course :D) that I've been working on that I was hoping you wouldn't mind looking over if you wanted to. You don't have to, it's just a thought.
ColonelGruber
- Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 15:35:25 (PDT)

On mixing work and pleasure: I remember last year we had a discussion in Psychology about what celebrities people found attractive. We also started talking about older actors who have 'still got it'. Inevitably, we starting talking about Alan - best lesson I ever had!

(Then it just so happened that night that I brought up the subject again and found out that my mum seems to be a closet Rickmaniac - and is the proud owner of Close My Eyes! :D )
Becky <kolaqube@hotmail.comfoo>
Manchester, UK - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 14:46:58 (PDT)

Why do Warners hype HP opening night as being 15th November when you can get in a week earlier than that. When I asked my cinema they couldn't tell me - just that it probably made them more money. But surely opening night should be just that. What's the point of everyone getting excited over a date that's just meaningless cos loads of people have seen it by then. Including me :-)

Am I missing the point? I guess they do it for all films, or do they? Just seems pointless to me.
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 14:04:00 (PDT)

Wow, I'd love to have been at school with teachers like you! Don't remember ever getting to talk about subjects like that. How old are your students? Did you manage to do the whole class without dribbling once?!

:-/
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 12:58:54 (PDT)

biographies, that should have been - carried away in the excitement of it all!
Sue
again, - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 12:35:41 (PDT)

Just a quick heads up for UK GBers - Michael Collins is being shown on ITV2 at 9.30pm tonight, if anyone has Sky or whatever and can get ITV2.
Have to say that photo still of Snape from CoS of him standing on the table ready to duel is probably the BEST one I've seen of him - he just looks incredible in that frock coat, and I'm one who adores him in his robes too!
Managed to even get AR into class discussion this week! We did biogrpahies in Literacy so I had to demonstrate of course, with the only person I could think of as a shining example! There followed a great discussion on AR as Snape, which of course I encouraged - another 29 minds hopefully converted into fans!! And a nice lesson for me! Sorry, that's a bit by the way, I think!
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 12:34:42 (PDT)

About the name Severus: in Russian language Sever ( ��) means just "Nord", so there is nothing negotive, it sounds even romantic, something like "Nordus"...^)))
Maria <mahe@mail.rufoo>
Moscow, Russia - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 11:44:04 (PDT)

Hoi, guys!:) I am Russian, so my Englis is bad, VERY BAD. I love Alan so much when I seen him at Harry Potter. That was great! His Snape is cool! I love him! Thank you for the great website!:)
Crazzy Hmster <wra@rambler.rufoo>
Sochi, Russia - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 11:38:38 (PDT)

Colonel Gruber - thanks for visiting my site! & Black-Sheriff, if you are a big fan of the Sheriff, I'm going to make you very happy in a few days. I've been creating a site to add to my Snape one that'll have loads of screen caps from RHPOT. Its proving time-consuming, but hey, can't complain about spending hours, days even, drooling over AR stills now can I? Someone has to do it!

On another matter, does anyone know why people leave insulting messages on guestbooks by the way? OK so I'm new to this, but I've had my first nutter already! It doesn't bother me, I can delete them anyway, but if you hate someone like AR, tell me why on earth you'd go to all the trouble of tracking down a site that's not even on a search engine yet, about someone you couldn't care less about? Weird. And what a waste of time.

Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 11:09:53 (PDT)

Ok Claudia, I will see what I can do. Jessica Friedlander, black-sheriff, and Kim Van Hoof--welcome! It's always cool to get to meet new people in the GB. I hope you have a good time here. Jessica F.--you picked two of my favorite films as well! One more thing that crossed my mind--Snape would be insane to fight in the robes, because he could trip and fall flat on his nose, and we wouldn't want that, would we? Kissing Snape. o.O That thought just makes me go weak in the knees. It's all I can do not to slide off my chair!! Now I have to kiss him. Must. *goes searching for Snape*
ColonelGruber
- Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 07:06:27 (PDT)

GML--the characters in HP are wearing traditional academic regalia. It used to be in Oxford and other British universities (possibly other European unis as well?) that both the students and professors wore academic robes over their clothing. Now we generally do that only for graduations, etc. Don't know about Oxford these days, but as recently as 20 years ago the robes were worn during final exams and during some special events as well. Pat
Pat
CO USA - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 06:49:35 (PDT)

Hi everybody my name is Kim and I'm a great fan of Alan Rickman, but who isn't? I LOVE his acting! I saw: Sense and Sensebility Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Galaxy Quest Die Hard Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone Michael Collins and I'm still looking for others I've got to go now, Bye Kim
Kim Van Hoof <vanhoofkim@hotmail.comfoo>
Balen, belgium - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 06:44:52 (PDT)

Hi there! Here comes a new born AR fan. First of all: I love your GB! I followed your DOGMA discussion with great interest. (Prepare the tinned tomatos: I liked the film!) But my all time favorite is RHPOT, though the film that made me the rickmaniac I am today was S&S (another Col. Brandon's charms' victim ;-) ). The scene where he waits outside Marianne's bedroom...so many feelings expressed in such a short scene! He's a genius! And an extremly sexy one!!!
black-sheriff <keunecke-dreixler@web.defoo>
karlsruhe, Germany - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 06:01:38 (PDT)

Jessica Friedlander--welcome aboard!

(Possible spoilers if you have not seen AABA)

Perhaps a bit of explanation will help to "de-bland" the title An Awfully Big Adventure. It is a direct quote from a character from the play, Peter Pan, which features so prominently in this film. I think Peter Pan himself says it, but the character is using the words "an awfully big adventure" to describe death. You can also think of Stella's foray into the world of theatre, sexuality, and burgeoning young adulthood as "an awfully big adventure"

I congratulate you on your taste in films--you have chosen two of my favorites!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 05:21:23 (PDT)

A long robe during a duelling scene? Snape isn�t nuts! He could stumble over it... Did the Sheriff of Nottingham has this robe during duelling with Robin Hood? No! Ok, it didn�t help him, he WAS killed... ;-))))))))))) Servus from Bavaria! *ggg*
Lisa
Bavaria, - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 03:20:45 (PDT)

His fine acting aside, what strikes me most about this man is his overpowering sexual charisma. He has texture, resonance, delectable features, a solid presence, complexity. I wish there were more roles that could do him justice. I recently saw both Blow Dry and An Awefully Big Adventure. I'm not sure of the title of that last as it was too bland to remain caught in my memory. The movie itself, however, is wonderful. Frankly, it's hormonal madness that inspired my visit to this site and thus impells my words. Right now, If I were confronted with the choice between this actor and a bowl of Hagen Daz's Dulche Leche, well.... Silly isn't it? Oh well. As far as Blow Dry is concerned, I hated Josh Hartnet, Hartlet, What is that kids name? Pointless subplot! Loved Rickman! Loved the shot of the underside of his foot with the tatoo! Who knows if that was his foot or not but I found it titillating. The movie is worth renting out. There is a role out there that could take advantage of the fullness of his talent. I'm just not sure what it is but I'm looking.
JESSICA FRIEDLANDER <EKOFRIEK@CS.COMfoo>
WALNUT CREEK, CA USA - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 17:41:37 (PDT)

too human...that's the impression...
Vera
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 17:33:38 (PDT)

I liked the long robes, they gave a very mysterious, supernatural look to Snape. I don't like seeing his legs, he looks to human, and with the length of the coat, his legs look stubby. They aren't in actuality, but that's impression. There's something about the makeup and lighting when Alan is in character as Snape that makes his facial skin look kind of tough and hard. His face is softer and fleshier looking in 'real life'. Anyway, regardless, I need to kiss him.
Vera
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 17:30:29 (PDT)

Colonel Gruber--I bought my copy of BC at Amazon Sellers. I see the guy is down $10 since I bought my copy. I was very pleased with the condition of mine and the seller was prompt.

Amazon Seller-Pite

Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 17:23:16 (PDT)

In regard to the name Severus, I thought the name came from the word Severe. We know how strict and severe Professor Snape is with his classroom management and punishments,and that is what I have always thought about until now. The sever us post is a new twist I had not thought about. Thanks.
Juliana
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 16:37:28 (PDT)

Just found out some interesting info on MuggleNet.com: Severus - Sever means cut off obviously. Add that to "us", it could mean Sever Us (as in kill us). Severe also means cruel, grumpy. Also... Lucius Septimius Severus restored stability to the Roman empire after the tumultuous reign of the emperor Commodus and the civil wars that erupted in the wake of Commodus' murder (if you watched "Gladiator" then you should know this). Snape - A town in England. Interesting, huh?
ColonelGruber
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 16:27:22 (PDT)

Are UK fans aware that you can already buy tickets to see HP 2 months hence?!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 16:22:49 (PDT)

Just to add my thoughts to the discussion on Snape�s clothing-though it isn�t robes, I agree and think JKR would�ve had a say in what clothes to wear in the films, so she probably doesn�t have a problem with his outfit. *hyperventilates at the thought of the picture* He�s so HOT in the Snape outfit it drives me nuts!!! I am so sad, because I haven�t seen ONE HP2 trailer. But I AM going opening day wherever there�s a theater close by!! No one wants to sit next to me in the theater because I�m going to be drooling all over myself and hyperventilating. Also, I watched �Mesmer� and �Blow Dry� last night. I nearly fainted at Mesmer o.O. I thought AR gave an outstanding tour de force performance as Mesmer and it really moved me. I rented the director�s cut edition and didn�t know it-has anyone seen the director�s cut and the original and are their any differences? Also, since I�m in US, does anyone know where I can hunt down a copy of Barchester Chronicles? I�m dying to see him in it. And I also enjoyed Blow Dry immensely. It could�ve been better, but I thought it was worth watching. He�s got great feet. Nice close up on the hands. Interesting hair styles. I love the scene where he�s listening to the radio and the �Good Morning, Sunshine� thing comes on and he starts banging the items on the counter (I�m weird, but I thought it was funny!). Please tell me, I couldn�t see very well, but were they utensils? Couldn�t see what they were. That movie makes me want to become a hairdresser! :)
ColonelGruber
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 16:19:15 (PDT)

Ensnaring Snape. Bear in mind, I am not a big fan of historical literature - although I had to start enduring it when researching ARs work... But the first video tape of Barchester Chronicles to me was practically not worth watching. I think AR entered the tape about 10 minutes or so towards the end of the 3 hour tape (it may have been a half hour, but it wasn't much at all!)

Then, well! For the next 2-3 hours, it was a magnificent exposure of AR! And bear in mind, this was the TV show that put AR on the map with the British people - long before Hollywood or even Broadway knew who he was! He is tall and slender here (mid-30s I estimate). But his character is marvelous - AR oozes slime out of every pour(?sp) in his skin - its definetely one of his better career roles! So, I'd say its defintely worth forking over the money to get!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 16:03:43 (PDT)

Forget the outfit, look at that man's proportions! Never have I seen that perfection in real life. I first noticed it in RHPOT (it seems to be more eyecatching in black) and now this! As an aside; perhaps the costume designer saw the reviews of Snape looking like a giant overgown bat and decided to give him a more tailored look. Or else, the robes are official school uniform and help protect against those nasty potioon spills! And a naughty little thought crosses my mind: How could Professor Snape fly on a broomstick with any kind of decorum with just his robes on? ("The Scotsman with Nae Trou" comes to mind! hee hee hee hee!)
Julia
Calgary, Canada - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 13:28:19 (PDT)

Ensnaring Snape: I agree with you about the buttons. They get me too!
Gwenn
NYC, USA - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 12:49:20 (PDT)

Evil?! Ooooh I love him best when he's evil! I've been thinking of getting a copy for some time, I'll track one down. Gosh I'm so easily led..

Do you think there is any coincidence with the characters names Slope and Snape? I just wondered if JKR might have been a fan of BC? It seems a bit close for comfort. Maybe I'm just cynical. Having not seen BC I'm not in any position to compare the two anyway. Just wondered.
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 12:44:48 (PDT)

Ensnaring Snape--Let me tell you...you have really missed a great AR performance if you haven't seen Barchester Chronicles yet. The whole cast is brilliant but young AR's Slope is just superb...from his facial expressions to his "evil" doings.

Since your in the UK, you shouldn't have a hard time tracking a copy down. Blackstar has a copy for 19.99 pounds.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 12:36:25 (PDT)

I've not seen Barchester Chronicals either yet. Anyone care to start a new review so I can guage whether to spend the next week hunting down a copy?
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 12:05:48 (PDT)

All kidding aside, I really do think Snape's clothes look a lot like Slope's. They have that clerical/academic look of days gone by.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 11:37:37 (PDT)

I guess I'm biased, but I have to disagree about Snape's outfit. I don't think you could really say that the costume they gave him is particularly "Muggle". Personnally I've not seen too many guys dressed like this round my way, although that's perhaps a good thing or they'd have to run pretty fast!!

The look they've gone for is quite gothic, if not true to JKR's books, but I'm pretty sure she'd have had a say in what he got to wear for the part. She was certainly involved in selecting Alan for the role, so they must have consulted her on his outfit.

That aside, I just have this thing about all those buttons... :-s
Ensnaring Snape
UK, - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 11:20:53 (PDT)

Y'know, I'm a bit cheesed off about the clothes in Harry Potter (the movie). Where in the books are trousers (pants) mentioned? These guys are supposed to wear *robes*. Not capes over normal clothes. And of course it's too late for any new director to change it now. It's clear in Book 4 that when they have to wear muggle stuff, they feel awkward in it (unless they're half muggle). It's clear in whichever book-it-was that Snape rolls up his *robes* to get his knee seen to after he was bitten by Fluffy.

Mmh... if you had told me 10 years ago that I would be talking to complete strangers about wizard fashion today, I think I would have patted you on the head and dialled for an ambulance... ;)

BTW, I didn't know about the advance tickets, but I have noticed that the large colour adverts for Chamber of Secrets have appeared in all the newspapers today. That and another (alas real) beginning of term... Yep, another year has gone.

GML
UK - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 10:49:15 (PDT)

I didn't think of it as stooping to middlemen. I thought that "I'll have my people talk to your people" was de rigeur out there. The entourage thing. But what you (Claudia) posted made me see it in another way...Alan just has to let it be known that he's interested in a director, singer etc. and he's in. So there is justice in the world, because he is one of the best actors of all time, of stage or screen.
Vera
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 10:43:57 (PDT)

Yes, C.O.S. tickets are available from UCI. I know I've got mine. From today for the 8,9,10,&14 Nov. I wanted to go to the Raindance F.F. 23Oct., as T.S.F.J.G. is the opening film. Not a hope to far away for a start. So I had to settle for C.O.S. Talk about spoilt for choice.
Mary Kerman <m-kerman@connectfree.co.uk.foo>
U.K. - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 10:32:46 (PDT)

Pant, pant, hyperventilate! EnsnaringSnape is now the proud owner of tickets to see CoS on the opening night!!! Wow can't wait! Do we really still have 7 weeks to still to go?

Now all I have to do is get invited to the premier...

Anyone know anyone who knows anyone who could get me in? Nope thought not, but it was worth a try! :-)
EnsnaringSnape
UK, - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 10:19:22 (PDT)

Oh my, me neither. Makes me wish my CD collection wasnt stolen when we moved. :(

::Mortianna...I haven't thought "Son of a Preacher Man" in a long time! Love that song! Claudia::
Meryl <aanrmem@yahoo.comfoo>
Middle of Wet & Soggy Nowhere, OH - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 10:00:23 (PDT)

RE Snape's new get-up. I don't think he is wearing anything different in COS--that frock coat was just covered up by the cape all the time in the first film. And besides, my Snapester action figure is wearing the frock coat as well. So there.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 09:41:33 (PDT)

Let's not have discussions about reigion other than talking about Dogma because otherwise it will spark off a huge discussion about it and it's not what the guestbook is for. Has anyone seen the new pics of Alan as Snape in the new, shorter-style robes? Christ, The Man is yummy....
Jizel
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 09:09:00 (PDT)

Returning to the topic of the films for a moment:

Get moving, Brit AR fans! According to the Guardian, you don't want to get left in the cold:

Tickets for the hotly anticipated second instalment of the Harry Potter film saga have gone on sale across the UK -- seven weeks before it opens. Advance tickets for "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" were made available at British cinemas on Friday [today].
Magda
Canada - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 08:41:56 (PDT)

Vera, you said it yourself...he is extremely respected by people in film and theatre. They know what he can bring to a role. This is why he has no need to stoop to middlemen or other means to get a role on stage or screen. He has never and hopefully will never bow to the crass, commercial Hollywood.

The same applies to Harrison Ford in respect to film roles. I prefer to keep my 2 cents about Cruise. LOL
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 08:24:21 (PDT)

*atheist* if you want to continue this discussion you can e-mail me at harliiwood@hotmail.com But to briefly answer your question, my POINT was that NO ONE can prove whether someone else's religious beliefs are true or false because people believe MOST religious doctrines, etc. on FAITH. That's what I said. YOU can't prove that God doesn't exist. So does that make you gullible? No. It can't be proven to the satisfaction of either of us. Thus no one is right or wrong. Gullible or sensible. It's moot.
Harlii
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 08:08:30 (PDT)

Let's not inject references to 9/11 into the GB; it can only lead to trouble and hurt feelings. The discussion is a film called Dogma, not religion in general. There are other sites for that.

Magda
Canada - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 07:55:45 (PDT)

Claudia, in crass, commercial Hollywoodland, I don't believe Alan Rickman has the power of Tom Cruise, Harrison Ford or others of that type. He's extremely respected by people in film and theatre. There's so much competition, I don't think any actor can rest on their laurels and merely give the nod to parts they want and they come to them. There's always someone ready to take your place. You are yesterday's news in a flash.
Vera
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 07:50:24 (PDT)

Harlii do you think that whatever the 9/11 perpetrators believed is true then? That's what you've just said. But then religion isn't very logical is it?
atheist
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 07:16:09 (PDT)

Clarification!! My statement below isn't directed at Atheists in general, but to the person who posted as *atheist* further down the page.

Also, before stones are thrown, I couldn't take this to e-mail as no e-mail address was listed.
Harlii
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 06:56:10 (PDT)

This Dogma discussion has been interesting. One point for *atheist* to consider. To say that people are religiously gullible suggests that what they believe isn't true. Usually when I hear people referred to as *gullible*, it's in reaction to them believing something false, impossible, etc. If you're suggesting that people who participated in 9/11 events or anything else that is done in the name of religion are gullible, you're off base.

Religious or spiritual people believe through faith. Obviously faith can't be proven to the satisfaction of non-believers, so I can't understand how someone would or could suggest that religious people are gullible. Just a thought.
Harlii
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 06:54:34 (PDT)

Mortianna...I haven't thought "Son of a Preacher Man" in a long time! Love that song!

Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 06:35:18 (PDT)

Well, here I have to hold my hand right in the air and admit that Dogma is one of my favourite AR films, and indeed, one of my favourite films in general (hence my website). Mainly for one superficial reason - it introduced me to Alan in the first place. After Metatron's first appearance in the bedroom I was smitten.

Obviously, it has its flaws. For example, the Golgothan always makes me cringe at the crudeness (although I like the idea about it came about). The language is very coarse, but even my mother finds the scene where Jay is ignorant to the fact God is standing in front of him hilarious. But overall, I think it's a great, thought-provoking movie.
Becky
Manchester, UK - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 05:30:09 (PDT)

It has been interesting to read all your comments about "DOGMA". This film is, of course, too LONG. However, I had to agree with Ms. Pomerantz on SBS here, that you have to be a Catholic who is well into this faith to try and make sense out of it.Kevin Smith is just that. I did not like Mega Mouth (Jay) for all his ridiculous foul language, could have done without him... AR is, as always "Walking on Water!" I read that AR's father was Catholic. Maybe Kevin is saying that this faith is changing and a new idea is needed. This has been such a good discussion. A film that gets you thinking - just what AR likes best!/ Carol/Japan - great photo's!! Good to Mr.Evil Lucius Malfoy with his long blonde hair amongst your photo's! I found Jules, UK, comments intersting. Keep writing, Jules. Bye.
Barbara the Aussie
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 05:10:46 (PDT)

I thought Dogma was a deeply religious film because in spite of all the fun and games it does insist that god & co are real. I don't find that offensive although it is contrary to my beliefs. Any one offended by the undermining of religious dogma and certainties needs to stop and remember that very recent history demonstrates how far from reason religious gullibility can lead. I hated the foul language as much as any religious type, mainly because it was boring, but then poor Jay has a small vocabulary and it was in character. And why not Alanis as god? Who would be suitable? If you believe, then is she not one of god's creatures, as worthy as anyone?
atheist
somewhere - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 04:33:52 (PDT)

my much belated thanks to SUZANNE for doing this preacher videogram. erm, I just heard it and my first impression was that of Jamie with a touch of the sheriff going on and on and on with it. I thought: I would have sent him off to his ancestors quite soon then.
Then he began talking so soft it was barely audible. like Jamie (must be the hair?)and I was deeply moved. Didn't manage to listen to every word, still, but had to look at the pics Claudia made . Great stuff, really. that man can talk.(no, really?!) Thanks to both of you.
mortianna
the onely man who could ever reach me, was the son of a preacher man:-) - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 04:32:26 (PDT)

Actually Vera. AR is the caliber of actor that can pick and choose his parts. If there is a part he wants to do I am sure all he needs to do is simply ask for it. He has no need for "middleman" games or any other sneaky means.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 02:11:29 (PDT)

(He was kidding about Swiss Family Robinson.) Alan got the role in the Sharleen Spitintheair video because he had a friend tell her that he "loved" her. Then he got the part in Dogma because he told people who told people who told Kevin Smith that he loved Chasing Amy. AR knows how to bypass the middleman and get considered for roles that ordinarily he wouldn't be thought of for.
Vera
- Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 20:14:46 (PDT)

Yesterday, while watching "Smallville," I managed to catch a new HP 2 TV Spot...this ones shows Alan during the dueling scence actually dueling! A bright white light comes out of his wand...also, go to muggle.net for more HP 2 pics...one of them has a Alan during the dueling scene, cloakless replaced with a tunic-type thing...
425
- Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 16:51:18 (PDT)

Hi all,

Just wanted to let you know that you can get the Texas DVD at Blackstar.com. I ordered it a day ago and it is being shipped already. They ship to anywhere as far as I can tell. It is a region 2 DVD, so you do need a multi-region DVD player.

Have a great weekend all!
Leanne
Wisconsin, WI USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 16:31:44 (PDT)

i think AR is gorgeously gifted.
yalonda
- Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 16:01:25 (PDT)

EnsnaringSnape, I owe you SO MUCH!!! I'm going to watch it ASAP. Unfortunately, parents are around and I think my dad would go balistic having me watch Alan Rickman dancing the tango and my mom would probably faint! So I have to do it when nobody's around hee hee :D. Magda, thank you for the information on that site. I will try it out and see if it's there. Carol, AMAZING COS pics!! *drools and faints* I also look forward to see Jason Isaacs because I loved him in "The Patriot." Emma Thompson as God...:D :D :D :D :D :D :D. That would have been awesome (much better than Alannis Moresset...not exactly sure how to spell her name). I think I need to watch Dogma again and reevaulate it, because having this conversation has made me rethink some things. And good news...I am spending the night over at my grandparents tonight and they have a *big* movie rental store in the town...>:)
ColonelGruber
- Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 14:44:20 (PDT)

This Sky promo or whatever it is, where Alan lists his three favourite films (Chasing Amy, Apocolypse Now, and Swiss Family Robinson, LOL!), did anyone ever catch it on tape? I'd love to see a Videogram made of it, if that's at all possible. I think I have to hear this coming from his own lips!
Ashley <drinky_mcmilk@hotmail.comfoo>
Ontario, Canada - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 14:43:21 (PDT)

@Lola: *gackergackergacker* ;-))))))))))))))))))))
Lisa
Bavaria, - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 14:04:44 (PDT)

GML (and others): In one of my previous posts, I mentioned that one of my favorite films is "The Last Temptation of Christ" (it's actually my second favorite film, after my all-time fave "To Kill a Mockingbird," but that's neither her nor there). It's a heady and absolutely fascinating portrayal of Christ as a man. Directed by Martin Scorcese, with an amazing cast led by Willem DeFoe and Harvey Keitel, and a soundtrack by Peter Gabriel that's one of the most intriguing soundtracks I've ever heard, it's great but it's DEFINITELY not a comedy and DEFINITELY not for the kiddies. However, I'd highly recommend a bottle of wine for it, if you can handle the fact that your head will already be spinning with imagery and questions. The only thing bad I can say about this movie is that Alan isn't in it. If he were, it would be the last temptation of me!
Gwenn
NYC, USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 13:36:12 (PDT)

"Infuriating 'sexy talented' genius" Yep,that about sums him up!

Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 13:09:21 (PDT)

Hi again,

"GML, I think you are too defensive. A person's tolerance level depends largely on background and environment, which is different for everyone." - But... but... this is the point I was making. This is practically a quote from my own post! *scratches head in utter bewilderment*. However you spell that... *blushes*. Ah, well, I'm pleased somebody (if unwittingly ;) understood it. Oh, and it looks like I should mention that my use of (carefully st*rred) rude words was an illustration of my point, not a sign of anger (*thumps fist on desk*). Never mind. And definitely not worth another post. I enjoyed the Dogma debate, and I made careful note of the other Christian satires I didn't already know mentioned by various people and will be looking them up. I love them... these sacred texts are the results of much wisdom and thought spent in search of the Truth, and it is only doing them justice not to follow them blindly but to appraise them with wisdom and thought and not be afraid of any truths. And to add my own contribution, the best ever written (fond) satire has to be The Bible according to Mark Twain. By Mark Twain, need I say. Not so well-known in the States, sadly enough, but a favourite in France, or so it was when I lived there. ("Mark Twain appears to have actually read the Bible, thus gaining a sinfully unfair advantage over its many adherents and defenders." said one critic) (LOL!)

And on a different note, I saw The Chamber of Secrets trailer for the first time yesterday. I had promised myself to avoid it like h... uh, ah, like the plague, because I knew the HP I trailers by heart and I found that it spoilt my enjoyment of the movie - but this one came unexpectedly as I was waiting for My Big Fat Greek Wedding to start. Snape with the newspaper reporting Harry and Ron in the flying car, Snape in the duel, Snape running around. I'm always surprised by Rickman's ability to become somebody else. I wouldn't say playing Snape is in any way a challenge for him (and I certainly think he is doing it mostly for money and fun) - (throw the *tinned* tomatoes this time if you like, you'll never reach me, la la la;) - (I mean, all this stuff about promoting books for the good cause of encouraging kids to read... Ah! How are Harry Potter videos going to encourage reading? How many kids are going to bother reading a story they already know the plot and end of from TV? Sure he's doing it for the cash and because he liked the books and fancied doing it, so what? When you spend most of your career doing stuff you believe in, you have to find the cash and the relaxation somewhere. I only wish he would see how superior he still is to many other actors in that respect and be honest about the odd paycheque aspect)... Where was I? Oh, yes, I am amazed how he can play yet another 'villain', and yet with one subtle gesture and one subtle glance make him a totally different villain from all the other ones. Y'know, I've already demonstrated my lack of ability to worship... so I admit I don't think he is quite the best actor on earth (while above most), I don't think he is intellectually or morally quite perfect. But I sometimes think he's a bit of an infuriating genius :D

GML
UK - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 12:53:25 (PDT)

I really enjoyed this page,although I missed the Photo Gallery and the Sound Files it's well done. ;-)Bye
Saskia Sohn <sevenofninedoc@web.defoo>
B�hl-Iggelheim, Germany - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 12:11:35 (PDT)

Emma Thompson as God in Dogma? ;-))))))))))) I enjoyed Dogma, but - hey - I live in a town where naked people run throug the park in summer... to live and let live.. Which of his films will be put down next week?
Lola Montez
M�nchen-Nymphenburg, - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 12:08:37 (PDT)

OMG!! Thanks Carol!! Listen, if anyone else out there sees pics from COS of Snape that aren't on my website Plllllleeeeeeeease let me know.

I've updated my site with my favorite of the two!

Darn - cold shower time yet again...
EnsnaringSnape
UK, - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 11:09:27 (PDT)

Being a Christian not a catholic I watched Dogma with some apprehension. I can't say I enjoyed it I wanted it because it had Alan in it, and it was part of my collection I have 16 of his Films. I was offended by the language but if you notice Alan doesn't use it maybe it's his part, but after watching it for the umpteenth time I don't listern to the language I just wait for Alan's appearances, and enjoy. After all what else do you with the man.
Mary Kerman <m-kerman@connectfree.co.ukfoo>
U.K. - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 11:04:07 (PDT)

Gwenn, I think you're exactly right about why Alan did Dogma. He likes to make us think. And I don't believe at all that morality and profanity must always be linked. When I said that I was shocked, I only meant that the movie was recommended to me for it's religious content, so it wasn't quite what I expected. Also, I sat down to watch it with my entire family, which includes very small children! As a rule, profanity does not shock me, but it does offend me when it's extreme. People don't routinely speak with a expletives in polite society, it's a very poor way to communicate. GML, I think you are too defensive. A person's tolerance level depends largely on background and environment, which is different for everyone.
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 10:30:21 (PDT)

It has been really enlightening to read all these posts on Dogma. Thank you my esteemed colleagues. I'm glad people kept posting on it. The more I read the more inklings I got into this film. Georgiana, what is the Sky promo? What were his other favorite films? Coincidentally, I rented Chasing Amy a month ago. I didn't like it much, but was intrigued. I watched it two more times at least. I appreciated it more after repeated viewings. A couple of scenes were amateurish. One Ben Affleck monologue sounds like he's reading from the script, the words don't sound natural. The actress who played Amy grated on me, but she pulled off a difficult role. Some of the emotional scenes were done beautifully. Jason Lee is impressive. Some of the graphic descriptions of lesbian sex just made me feel like, Owww! That must hurt! What do you all think of Chasing Amy? I'd love to hear what Alan thought of it in detail...
Vera
- Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 09:58:13 (PDT)

Thanks for the link to those new HP photos, Carol! Wonderful head-to toe shot of my favorite perfesser. Does anyone else think a likely caption could be "The Evolution of Slope"?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 09:20:15 (PDT)

Thank You, Claudia for the (hick!) wine! You are so thoughtful!

And thank you to our friend from Dublin for that post! I feel better about Dogma already!
Constance (who really shouldn't drink in the morning...)
Cary, NC USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 08:41:40 (PDT)

Make that "In the Beginning...".
VH
Dublin, OH USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 08:25:12 (PDT)

Perhaps some of you would be interested in these quotations from Kevin Smith's essay "In the Bginning...The Story of Dogma"

"...the passion to tell the story came solely from my unbridled appreciation for God, and my predilection for dick and fart jokes (the former represents how I make it from day to day; the latter represents how I pay my bills)."

"I wanted to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, yes; but I also wanted people to hear the joyful noise, and not just shut it out because I was running around talking about Jesus. So I opted to pepper my parable about faith with some real salt of the earth-type humor."

"The key difference between Spreading the Word of God and Spreading the Word of the Church can be summed up thusly: the Church is the shoddy house that was built upon the perfect earth. I'm not saying that Church is bad; I'm saying it was built by men (and women), and because of this, it's weak and frail. The earth, on the other hand, is organic and natural, strong and durable.
Like God.
It was this idea I wanted to get across on film once I realized I wanted to be a filmmaker."

"If you can entertain people (especially make them laugh), they won't mind you being preachy on any subject."

"Through the grapevine, Scott and I had heard that Alan Rickman was an Amy fan. Metatron was always meant to be British (as the voice of God should be), so we sent him a script. Word came back that he wanted to ask us two questions in regards to the flick. He called the office and asked whether the wings would be real or CGI, and would we be keeping all the dialogue. Scott and I managed to stop giving each other high fives long enough (I mean, c'mon, we were on the phone with Hans f---ing Gruber) to respond that the wings would be both practical and digital, and that our aim was to keep the flick as close to the script as possible. He then said he was in, and, in turn, suggested Emma Thompson for the part of God; and, for awhile, we had our Almighty. However, Emma dropped out a few months later to stay in England to try to have a baby, and we were left God-less for a period."

Perhaps this helps clarify the message if not make it more palatable. BTW the Scott referred to was Scott Mosier the producer. The full essay can be found with the Dogma Special Edition (which I own because I happened to love this film).

This is my first post to this (or any other) guestbook. I hope it is not too long and that I didn't italicize the entire GB.;)
VH
Dublin, OH USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 08:20:21 (PDT)

Vera, the Sky Promo wherein Mr. Rickman cites "Chasing Amy" as one of his three favorite films was captured on video; there is 'proof.'
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 06:46:40 (PDT)

thank you soo much , Carol!!!!!! Wonderful pics!
verena
bremen, germany - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 06:31:28 (PDT)

Wow, it's been a LOOONNG time since I posted last - maybe a year? But that's what us lurkers are good at :) Anyway, I got a wonderful birthday present yesterday when the Leaky Caldron posted a link to page of brand new HP Chamber of Secrets photos, including two that feature AR as Snape! Very swoonable stuff.
Carol <A Silent Dogma Loverfoo>
Aichi, Japan - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 06:13:56 (PDT)

I'll try one more time.

Can you tell I really want to share??? (giggle)
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 05:57:09 (PDT)

Oops! My emoticon didn't work! LOL
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 05:41:55 (PDT)

Awwww, poor Connie. I'll share with ya.

[img]http://community.the-underdogs.org/smiley/happy/bottleplus.gif[/img]
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 05:41:17 (PDT)

Good Morning! Well.... yes, I did watch *Dogma* last night; no wine to soothe my rattled nerves but the hot tea did help in my resolve to withstand all verbal abuse from the charming Jay and Co. I must thank this GB because the pre-viewing discussion here of the past 24 hours did help to fortify me and desensitize my Victorian nature and therefore allowed me to view this movie with a less defensive and more open heart.But... did I find the truth I was in search of? In short........ YES.

I can't believe it but I did find some extremely valid points in this nasty little film . This is the kind of movie that old prudes like myself never finish because we tend to be offended early on and devine that it can only get worse or in this case, more offensive towards God and all the religious institutions that uphold faith. I expected that this little movie would give God the finger, that this was Keven Smith's adolescent angst against God and that we the audience, held hostage by the charismatic cast,would end up depressed and feeling somewhat violated. But no, it was not like that at all.I grant you that the first half of the film is offensive, up to the part with the poop-monster...but then, the discussion begins and I found myself nodding a lot and letting my tea grow cold in the process. Great point was made about "Beliefs" vs "Ideas". Absolutely. I was quite impressed with that.It was an original argument (that in itself miraculous in the Dogmatic argument).The discussion about the role of organized religion in segregating people and causing suffering for mankind is valid, although not original, it did strike me as the movie ended, that this is targeted to a younger audience,the MTV crowd, one that is not used to pondering the existance of God and the validity of faith on an ordinary Friday night at the movies. So, at the risk of sounding Machiavellian (an awesome task at 8:13am and only on cup #2 of the great Java)..... The end, the conclusion of this film did justify the means. All the obsenity and childish humour did reach out to young people; all the Mall rats, skate boarding dudes and video game addicts (yes, my children, LOL) and grabbing them by the throat affirmed the existance of God, miracles and the reality of the spiritual dimension.For one such as Kevin Smith to takle such a lofty subject, and wrestle it down to earth for the likes of our youth to begin to think of such things is........ an answered prayer.

I could write more, elaborate and discuss what I did NOT agree with theologically, etc... but it is awfully early for such lofty debate and besides.... the dryer is beeping! :~)
Constance, a rainy morning in North Carolina <madaboutron4@yahoo.comfoo>
Cary, NC USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 05:35:51 (PDT)

RE A Concerned Citizen--I think your comments about the "inner 11-year-old" blend nicely with my theory about the "inner guy". And I agree. The part of me that would have been an indulgent parent thinks, "oh, let him have his fun--he's usually such a good boy."

And Julia, although deep in my heart I know you are right, your comments to us baby boomers made me think, "Excuse me a moment while I get a caraway biscuit and change my crinoline." :o)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 05:04:36 (PDT)

Vera: yes, he did say that Chasing Amy was a fave film. Do a Google search on Rickman and Chasing Amy.

Colonel Gruber: if you're looking for a Quigley script, try here: http://www.screenwriter.com/bookcity1.html

Magda
Canada - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 02:37:47 (PDT)

I'll try that again shall I?!

You could try this website, don't know if they'll ship to the states (havn't time to check thismorning) but they've got the version I bought a few months back - "The Greatest Hits - UK - DBL CD" the enhanced UK delux limited edition 2 CD

OK @ �24.99 its pretty expensive and shipping might add a fair bit, but it depends how desperate you are for a copy!

eil.com

I hope you find a copy somewhere, if not here. Look around, there might be cheaper options.
EnsnaringSnape
U, - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 23:16:40 (PDT)

COLONELGRUBER - I hope I'm not missing something from an earlier discussion but if you want to see the In Demand video have you not tried "Claire's Sound Page"? Its on there cos I've been in and watched it thismorning to check.

The url for the page is

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

On the right hand side is a hyperlink to UK VIDEO. Click on there and depending on your connection speed (I manage to watch it ok over a 56k) sit down somewhere comfortable so you don't fall over and ENJOY! Please be prepared for serious drooling and fighting the urge to send hate mail to Spiteri!!
EnsnaringSnapr
UK, - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 22:47:03 (PDT)

Rickman frequently talks about some of his characters "being about eleven years old". I have always thought that the child within Rickman enjoys "potty jokes" and irreverent humor. Thus the song entitled "Wanker" on the Winter Guest soundtrack. I find Dogma to be a "showoff" movie. Kevin gets to show us all that he paid attention during his Catholic school religion classes. Thomas Aquinas, he's not. He satirizes the cultural and mutable interpretation of Christ with the "Buddy Christ", and then creates his own caricature. I believe that the old testament was full of working class, rough shod, simple speaking folks that did shocking things and could be incredibly stupid at times. They at least recognized the glory of God, and felt their own unworthiness. To Kevin Smith "the voice" of God is deserving of respect, but the image of God is a woman wearing plaid boxer shorts and standing on her head sniffing marigolds. Surely God is not well represented if he is part of a punchline, especially if it is a dirty joke to start with. I would respect Kevin Smith if he had shown the courage to make a statement and stand behind it, instead of saying "gee folks, this is just a comedy, don't put too much weight to it" and then wanting to make a religiously significant movie. If ya can't stand the heat, don't stand in the fire, Kevin.....
a concerned citizen
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 22:05:46 (PDT)

No, it's not true.
Rumor control

is it true that AR dated Salma Hayek while working on the film Dogma?anyway i think AR is a really good actor. my e-mail address shouldbe "alanrickman_iz_kewl@hotmail.com"'coz he iz the kewlest actor i know!
julz.c <julz_iz_kewl@hotmail.comfoo>
Sydney-most locations, n.s.w Australia - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 20:51:39 (PDT)

I'm glad we're finally discussing something of value! I want to elaborate what I said about Kevin Smith being an icon in the comic book world. Understanding that genre and its appeal may be the key to understanding Dogma. I'm not sure how many of you will accept this, but my view is that Dogma is a very well-constructed film that plays with the ideas/ideals of popular culture by subtly and not-so-subtly inserting visual references that pique the viewer. We all know that Alan is a political animal; he's also not above movies with explicit moral overtones. (In fact, when I watch his "serious movies" I sometimes cringe at the often heavyhanded delivery of consequence and morality.) Dogma, besides being an inter-genre work, has the added strength of strongly appealing to an audience often seen as devoid of morality and politics. This is where it gets difficult for baby-boomers to understand the teenage psyche: Caricatures are a VERY useful way for young adults to understand the world. Jay and Silent Bob are funny because they are only slightly exaggerated versions of what can be found all over America. I think I would go so far as to call Dogma a kind of burlesque. I realise I sound like intelligentsia trying to appease the outraged middle class, but there is merit to Dogma, both artistic and political. It isn't great art because it doesn't cut across barriers of class and age, but it does effectively target an often-neglected audience; one would hope with positive results.
Julia
Calgary, Canada - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 20:27:09 (PDT)

I am amazed that Chasing Amy is one of Alan's favorite movies. I need some evidence that he said that. Anyone have a reference? I've read every interview I could find on the internet and never saw it mentioned. I did read that he liked Magnolia. Chasing Amy? Are you serious?
Vera
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 20:22:38 (PDT)

Stacy, Alan did Die Hard for exposure and fame.
Vera
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 20:11:33 (PDT)

Swiss Family Robinson??? AW. Now I have to watch it again! Hee :D.
ColonelGruber
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 19:10:40 (PDT)

Sue--unfortunately, I am not in UK, I am in US. But thank you for the information. I hope to be able to find it somewhere. Alan dancing the tango...*faints.* I wanna see it! I wish I could hear the song too (EnsnaringSnape, you are so lucky). Also, does anyone know where I can find the script for "Quigley Down Under"? I have searched for it but can't find it anywhere. This discussion about Dogma is getting very deep. By being offended by the profanity I am not at ALL saying that I am higher up than anybody else. I'm not. I am stating how I feel about the bad language. Jay's character is like that, I understand, it's just that it shocked me first time around and such language offends me. I don't think you need so MUCH of that language to get the point across to people. I personally don't think Alan did it for the publicity. He likes to keep to himself, why do something liket that? It doesn't sound like him to me, but you never know. Maybe there was something in the script he liked. Excuse me as I go to take a shower :).
ColonelGruber
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 19:08:39 (PDT)

Best Christian satire of all time -- Life of Brian by Monty Python. Kevin Smith doesn't touch it!!
susan
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 18:34:44 (PDT)

FAITH. *That's* the point of the movie (for me): As long as you have faith, that's what counts. And I don't think AR does *anything* for "exposure" or "fame." In fact, it seems he does his best to avoid it!
Stacy <Eustacia@ureach.comfoo>
NC USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 18:29:52 (PDT)

This has been a great discussion, with all counties heard from so far as I can see (grins). And it underscores for me why I enjoy this community so much. Alan's films nearly always provide food for thought and a lot of material for discussion. Even (and sometimes especially) the ones I don't care for!

p.s. too frickin' bad about that wine being gone...
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 17:14:49 (PDT)

My....... what a great discussion! I come back here 10 hours later and we are still in heated debate! I love this Guest Book (hugs). Well, dash it all, I will probably end up watching it tonight! I will get out my pick axe and dig, dig for that truth I am having such a time finding in this little movie! But alas... sad news....(sigh) all out of wine! :~( (LOL)
Constance
NC USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 16:27:19 (PDT)

I guess the reason I didn't 'get' the movie is I've never wrestled with the problems of organized religion. It turned me off as a child, always seemed full of hypocrises and absurdities and I was never a part of it. I don't have anger since I never 'wrestled' with it. There's a lot of anger in the movie. Frequent profanity is boring but doesn't offend me. That long post was interesting, and so was Harlii's reply. As far as Alan being a 'player' in Hollywood, does Alan want Hollywood commercial success? If he does, why? More money and more fame? He's so private, does he want more interviews?
Vera
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 15:54:31 (PDT)

Sorry, that was supposed to be "toilet" and"regardless of the quality..."
Eni
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 15:07:55 (PDT)

Hi there, Just my two cents worth about Dogma. I'm always wrestling with my catholic faith, but in my oppinion that's definetely better then ignoring the "questionable" parts and just blindly following dogmas. I guess that Kevin Smith might feel similar. Aside from that, I thought some of his notions were quite brilliant and he just got scared out of his wits about himself and had to dilute the whole (actually quite wonderful) movie with those awfull scenes ( tilet monster, profanity,gore...).As for Alan acting in this movie, my husband thinks it was probably mostly for exposure. Knowing Kevin he probably knew, regarding of the quality of the movie, his name will be buzzing all around Hollywood. And you can hold Alan in as high regards as you want, he is still an actor who makes a living of exactly that Hollywood buzz. The film business is sooo political, and there is no way you could be a major player without knowing how to actually play that game.
Eni
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 15:04:04 (PDT)

does anyone know alan has any relatives or brothers or sisters who are in the entertainment biz.
chelsea
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 14:25:48 (PDT)

My 2 cents on Dogma. I am a Catholic and I teach a class to adults who wish to join our church. I love this movie. The truths in it for me are that one must always have respect and reverence for God- [ characters bowing in God's presence]; another truth for me is that repentance for sins is necessary [Bartleby tells her he is sorry and he is punished]. God loves us [God hugs Bartleby at the end]. Yes, organized relgion does have some faults and we will probably have to answer and be accountable on judgment day.
Juliana
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 14:22:08 (PDT)

Ooo, GML. Your comments seem so bitter. I don't think anyone got personal here and suggested that there was something wrong with anyone else's morals for enjoying the movie. I think several people were asked their opinions and what they got personally from the movie. Your post suggests that all of us who commented on language being offensive or foul because of our personal moral or religious beliefs must then think ourselves above the rest of society. That obviously we must equate clean speaking with right and foul speaking with wrong. I can't speak for anyone else, but that is NOT what I was saying. And I have to disagree that because someone seemingly only speaks in expletives that that is the only way to reach them. All of society that a person must deal with on a daily basis does not speak like that so they must revert to normal ways of speaking sometimes.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 13:52:31 (PDT)

Interesting... so it's the rude language and 'profanities' in Dogma that offends people? Mmmh. I cannot remember any footage of [insert favourite famous ruthless dictator's name] using rude words or uttering religious profanities in public speeches (far from it, tyrants often praise God for being on their side, don't they?). That makes them good people? Surely anybody who pushes his/her Christian interest for the rest of humanity to the extent of reading the international news knows that the greatest evils on this earth are committed by very-well spoken and *outwardly* very religious people indeed. Their very oratory skills and professed faith gained them their misguided support. Any poor foul-spoken yob committed genocide in your neighbourhood recently? Not in mine. Surely people who use foul language are 99% of the time people from deprived backgrounds. Tut tut. Disgraceful. Uh, I must have got a fake version of the bible because it says nowhere in mine that being poor is wrong, yet surely deprived people of the time were no more refined than today's. Not all parents are well-spoken. That makes the offspring evil? - Gee, when it is so easy to tell a good person from a bad person, you have to wonder why the bad ones are allowed to grow up. (I blame the governement!) -So easy: any newborn telling the midwife to f*ck off and go fetch him a banana milkshake instead of that breastmilk sh*t should be killed on the spot: end of society's problems. Can Alan Rickman's fans see no further than to associate language and morality? I am happy *he* can. If Dogma tells you one thing, that thing is that you should think for yourself, not follow some written-down rule just because somebody wrote it down one day and following it so happens to get you the approval of a bunch of self-interested religious leaders. That is absurd and is reflected by the absurdity in the movie. If the majority is following a rule, the chances are it is a very easy rule to follow. It might still be a good rule, but that is up to you to decide, not up to the person next door. Of course it's a lot easier to show up at church once a week than to be a good person every day of that week. Of course it is easier to follow a dogma than to be a real Christian (for instance). Of course it is easier to show polite and respectful adoration to some image of a perfect God than to show understanding to the real, self-centred and infuriating people you have to put up with every day. And I defy anybody who has set him/herself the task to understand humanity not to come up with a *lot* of 'profanities' at regular interval. I agree that the message is so obvious, it shouldn't have needed stating. Alas, from my own every-day experience of the giant-shaped amount of excrement-esque comments (as seen in movie;) I hear on TV and from people around me and read in the popular press, I'd say it was worth making the point. Particularly so to a young audience. Don't think it made that much money either, it was bound to be badly received. Dogma is a highly moral movie. It tells you that what/who some people choose (and some people are told) to name 'God' gave you the power of reason and that rejecting the gift to follow a text (full of loopholes easily exploited by bad individuals) is wrong. If you think that the message is obvious, simplistic, redundant and unworthy of your intelligence, I suggest you read the international news. The fact the movie teaches *you* nothing new does not mean it cannot teach other people something new. Preferably in their own language and preferably in a light-hearted way. And there *are* other people. Lots and lots of them ;)

Gee, this must be full of typos and short on paragraphing, sorry, I'm too tired to check.

GML
UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 13:41:47 (PDT)

Vera, we all may have gotten something different from our viewing of Dogma as not all of us come from the same backgrounds and experiences. When I say I *got it*, I may not have truly gotten anything. But to try and answer your question: I thought after viewing it that KS was trying to do two things. One, show us the flaws of organized religion and two, while showing the flaws of organized religion, balance it out with the good parts. Because in essence, that's what he did. He made fun of a lot of basic Christian and Catholic doctrines, but the end of the movie sort of balanced it out to say, "Well, it was right deep down anyway."

At least that's what *I* got. I can't think of any other purpose he could have had.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 13:04:02 (PDT)

Hi there! In my opinion, KS just likes to make people discuss about things.Religion is not a very interisting topic for many of us, so while he turns some of the myths upside down (black jesus,female god etc.),he`s doing a very good job of provoking.For me, it`s just good entertainment,not more and not less.
Kristin
Germany - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 12:40:47 (PDT)

Swiss Family Robinson???? How adorable. It's about the last thing I would have expected as one of Alan's favorites. Like I needed him to have ANOTHER endearing quality. Damn him!
Gwenn
NYC, USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 12:34:55 (PDT)

As to "Why 'Dogma,'" the 'word' at the time was that Mr. Rickman had seen "Chasing Amy" and thought it one of the best films he had ever seen. A few years ago, there were bits running on the telly in the UK wherein well known actors gave their top three favorite films. (Was this a promotion on Sky?) Mr. Rickman's were, "Chasing Amy," "Apocalypse Now" and "Swiss Family Robinson," as I recall. I could have that last one wrong...
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 12:23:39 (PDT)

...SAW Dogma...
Vera
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 12:20:02 (PDT)

Gwenn, The average young male and female that say Dogma and liked it does not see Jay and Silent Bob as morons. They think they're cool and funny and would love to see lots more movies starring them. That makes how they talk about and to women disturbing.
Vera
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 12:18:52 (PDT)

Jayne Claire, what was the script hitting at? That there are a lot of dumb rules and loopholes in Catholic dogma? Would the people who 'got' Dogma please tell me what there was to get that made it worthwhile and funny? Posters say they 'got it' but so far have yet to enlighten us ignoramuses. If it's so obvious, articulate it!
Vera
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 12:04:17 (PDT)

ColonelGruber, are you in UK? If so, I've just bought Texas - Live in Paris on DVD from DVDpopcorn.co.uk which has the video of In Demand on it - that came on good authority from some good person on here also with the name of Sue! Don't know whether that is any help to you - only if you're in UK, by the sounds! If you're not, please ignore paragraph! Happy hunting! Worth it in the end - the best 3 mins of AR in a long while!!
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 11:44:35 (PDT)

I watched Dogma this past summer on video with some friends. I must admit, before I saw it my main attraction was that Alan was in it, as "The Voice of God," no less. But I also has heard that it was (literally) an iconoclastic take on Catholocism, and that sounded interesting too. The cast seemed totally eclectic, so I figured that was a good sign that there would be some originality. I had never seen a Kevin Smith film before, but I figured he must be pretty impressive to have the likes of Alan Rickman and George Carlin in his film.

After seeing it, I was pretty unimpressed. For what it's worth, I was raised Jewish, but am now a Unitarian (or "Jew-nitarian", ha ha), I do know a bit about Catholic dogma, and The Last Temptation of Christ is one of my favorite films. Which probably explains why the scene where Alan's character comforts Behtany in the pond is one of my favorites; that plus the fact that it's some great acting on Alan's part. I thought that Chris Rock was great, and I even thought that "Jay" was funny, profanity and all. The reason I don't think his hijinks are misogynistic is that he is portrayed as an utter moron (in fact, doesn't Alan's character actually refer to Jay and Silent Bob as the two morons, or something like that) and Bethany's disdainful reactions to Jay's idiotic advances are hysterical.

The biggest problem I have with the movie is that the script seems impossible to act. It nowhere near resembles anything like real-life dialog, just one over-opinionated, expository monologue after another. I guess if you want to be charitable, you call that type of script "highly stylized". Oh, and it seems as though Salma Hayek can barely speak the English language, much less act her way out of a paper bag. But, of course, she looked fabulous in the stripper scene (yes, there's a stripper scene on top of everything else, in the same scene as the excrement monster. Thankfully, Alan is not in that scene).

I do have an opinion on why Alan was attracted to this script, and I stress that it's just an opinion and that I have no idea what actually goes on in that pretty little head of his. Ironically, it has to do with the Preacher videogram I just watched yesterday. (And let me take this opportunity to thank Suzanne for creating and posting such a magnificent piece of Alan's work). It's possible that Dogma appealed to Alan for similar reasons as The Preacher--at heart, he's what we call in the U.S. "a lefty" and he likes scripts that stir things up a bit and approach entrenched ideas from a different perspective. Nothing wrong with that, in my mind. Perhaps this also explains his role in Bob Roberts? He seems to like unconventional messages, especially when it comes to questioning authority (which is specifically referenced in The Preacher monologue). And what better example of questioning authority than the movie Dogma?
Gwenn
NYC, USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 11:23:15 (PDT)

Uh, sorry to butt in, but just been reading through the Dogma comments (just got in from work) and now I'm thinking that I really should skip reading any until after watching the film cos its all going over my head! Unfortunately I won't get time until Saturday (the suspense is killing me!).

Wanted to make a quick mention of something close to Colonel Gruber's heart though... I was at work today and we always have the radio tuned in in the background. You know how you don't really notice it after a while, well I was writing this report and all of a sudden the hairs on the back of my neck went up. I wasn't sure why but my ears tuned into the radio. This intro had came on, which I've not heard for ages and for a moment I did the "I know that intro but I'm not sure where from" thing. Then it swung into Texas' In Demand! I tell you I seriously lost all concentration and nearly slid under my desk!! :-s

Isn't it strange how the human mind works. A few notes of a tune and Alan Rickman's dancing the tango round my insides and my knees have given up working!

EnsnaringSnape
UK, - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 11:13:28 (PDT)

Re; Dogma. I have no objection to Dogma on religious or moral grounds. I have a fairly broad sense of humour, and have watched it several times, because of Alan's role, trying to get the joke. And basically, I just don't find it funny! None of it is offensive to me, I don't even care about the sexist jokes (yes I know they're meant to be making a point). It just leaves me cold, that's all, and it goes on too damn long. I own the dvd of Dogma. I tried to watch it while listening to the commentaries. They offered no insights at all, other than what infantile men talk about when they are (seemingly) drunk. Yes, Alan looks good in it, and acts well. He always does. But the film , for me, sucks.
Helen
Cheshire, UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 11:11:21 (PDT)

The first time I watched Dogma, it was at the suggestion of my daughter (she was 18 then) who was with me browsing for videos in the library. I never like any of those teen movies she likes, so I resisted. She kept insisting it was one of the best films she ever saw, so I gave in. I was shocked by the profanity and what I thought was anti-Christian jokes... blasphemy I called it, and shut it off. Then after I started my AR collection last year, I decided to give it another try and see it with an open mind. My daughter kept saying, "Mom, you just don't get it! There's a lot of truth in there." Well, I have to admit she was right. I still cringe at the constant profanity, but it has many redeeming qualities and I'm glad I made the effort to find them. So... not all teenagers missed the point, and probably that's the audience Kevin Smith was targeting -- those teenagers and young adults who enjoy the shock value but can also use their brain. Of course, on the most basic level, you can always enjoy it for Alan's brilliant acting and adorable good looks!
Tami
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 10:58:30 (PDT)

PS. I agree with Harlii's last statement. If KS and the other actors were trying to make a point, I missed it.
ColonelGruber
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 10:12:08 (PDT)

Thanx for the suggestion for the "In Demand" video, Sally. I will do what I can to try to hunt it up. I have been reading all the reviews about "Dogma" here and it's an interesting subject for me because I agree with what everyone is saying, but also have my own opinion, if that makes any sense. I know nothing about Catholicism (forgive me if I spelt it wrong), but I want to make it clear I am a very serious Christian and did take offense by many of the things in "Dogma" that were said and done, and yet, in a strange way, I found it funny. I don't take my faith lightly at all, but I do laugh at some of the corny jokes in there, but I never take it seriously and hope no one else ever does. One reason why I respect it (in a way) is because in the conversation between Bartleby and Loki after the train scene, what Bartleby and Loki are saying is exactly doctrine, except Barlteby's view is skewed, like Satan's was. I was amazed that something like that came out of a Kevin Smith film because of all the profanity of his other films and beforehand in "Dogma." And I don't appreciate having Alanis Moresset playing God. Some of the things in "Dogma" are funny, but the rest of it is offensive. I do like it in some spots, but in other parts it frustrates me.
ColonelGruber
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 10:09:12 (PDT)

Just FYI...I don't think anyone here is judging anyone else's morals for enjoying or not enjoying Dogma. I have friends who are not any faith and they are offended by foul language like that found in Dogma and many other movies. So it's not just religious people who take issue with that part of the movie. It's personal to each viewer.

I suppose my point (again, yes I know. :D ) is that if indeed Kevin Smith and the other actors, including AR, were trying to make a point (whatever it is) they sold the audience short by trying to camouflage said point in foul jokes relating to religion and other crapola. Note, I said foul as opposed to just plain jokes. Probably (probably) KS's main audience STILL didn't get his *point*. I would say that his audience isn't mainstream as far as theatergoer's are concerned and that the jokes about God, faith, religion, etc. were just that...jokes to those people. And perhaps for certain people, teenagers esp., it probably had the opposite effect...confused them as to what his point was and they probably left the theater (or video) not understanding he was trying to make a religious statement. What I saw, or rather how I interpreted what I saw was: It's okay to disrespect people of faith, their various gods or goddesses, etc. by using foul language and themes. I don't watch anything but cartoons with a *just for fun* attitude, so I do tend to dissect my viewing choices more than other people. I only watched Dogma because Alan was in it and then I was sorry I had.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 09:58:21 (PDT)

replace with "sophisticated"
FastFilm
still asleep, - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 09:49:42 (PDT)

I am glad we live in the video/dvd era of fast-forwarding film viewing. I enjoyed most every aspect of the sophicated cum slapstick comedy "A Fish Called Wanda," but cannot watch it unless I control the remote and fast forward. The Yorkie-killings as played for laughs (as opposed to the dog death in "Magnolia" which emphasizes the intrinsic tragedies befalling the characters) bothers me so completely that I cannot let it remain part of viewing this otherwise highly enjoyable and commendable film (director was 80 years old!) Therefore I empathize with those GBers who find "Dogma"'s irreverance at tenets they hold dear. I laughed a lot, but I'm an overaged irreverent punk. Therefore I would suggest newcomers who want to see an interesting Rickman performance watch it with VCR remote tightly clutched (you'll catch on to the rhythm of what you can't fathom easily: Smith is nothing if not obvious.) I can't watch "A Fish Called Wanda" any other way, and would have missed the career-high hilarity of Kline and Curtis' performances otherwise (Cleese and Palin have many others.)
FastFilm
Los Angeles, - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 09:48:14 (PDT)

Kevin Smith's goal was and is to promote Kevin Smith and his films. That is perfectly legitimate and, as far as his financial backers are concerned, even wonderful. But that's not what Dogma is about.

You have to give the ol' Kevster credit for his marketing skills: how many other filmmakers out there can claim that if people don't like his film it's because they're too uptight about religion? Not "I can't tell a joke without telegraphing it minutes in advance so that it's half stale by the time it arrives" but "the viewer has issues". Nice work if you can get it. And of course, if someone really gets too close, he can always fall back on "hey, dude, lighten up, it's only a movie".

Which has been pretty much Smith's attitude in interviews since Dogma came out. He even got annoyed last year that he wasn't given "credit" for using the f-word in a film about God.

Kevin Smith is nothing but a big 10 year old with a limited vocabulary, a weakness for humour based on body functions and a rolodex of names of people who will give him money to make movies. It is nothing to AR's credit that he thinks Smith is funny.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 09:25:14 (PDT)

Ok, I just had to post my bit on Dogma before I head out to the store to buy me a new set of morals. Yall've convinced me, I'm obviously lacking in that department.

I honestly "loved" Dogma. It is one of my favorites. I easily got past the language and sexual comments and laughed till my heart's content every chance I could! I, also, don't know much about the Catholic religion and I admit, I'm a struggling Methodist, but I understood what the script was hitting at (at some points) and was able to sit back and enjoy the movie. (I'm not armed! Throw tomatoes! I dare you!)

Perhaps I fall under the age group that Kevin Smith was hitting for, maybe I just don't take offense to this stuff like I should, I should possibly spend a little more time at church now that I've posted this, but fact being, I was able to really enjoy Dogma and I still watch it as often as possible. I foresee a movie night coming up!

By the way, if Lee's anywhere hanging about, I watched Closet Land and was able to stomach it easily! Am I weird, doctor? Just tell me! Straight out! (Gonna tell you Lee, I told you I could watch it! LoL)
Jayne Claire
AL - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 09:23:25 (PDT)

Tell me what it is first. I *think* the point at the end was that the angels were bad and God was good (all the time, heh). But I'm not sure how I came to that conclusion based on what was presented...you know, besides Loki and Bartleby being destroyed. Becasue they basically ripped apart the basic tenants of my faith and I'm not Catholic. So for me, it had nothing to do with Catholicism vs. the WORLD. The jokes were dumb, thus funny to many. But I don't think the jokes were meant to, or in fact did cover, camouflage, etc. his point. If indeed that was his point...to promote Catholicism, faith, religion, God, etc. I'm confused now.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 08:28:59 (PDT)

That Kevin Smith is a devout Catholic? So is Madonna. That doesn't make Dogma a quality film or Madonna a quality act.
Vera
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 08:27:11 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, thank you for the info. So you saw Kevin Smith at the stage door? Chasing Amy was a male fantasy that I hadn't seen before on film. The fantasy of being able to convert an attractive, admired gay female to heterosexuality by the force of your potent masculinity and lovable character. I have had more than one male friend and a male relative tell me that they have had the fantasy of converting a lesbian. The movie makes realistic sense until Amy turns around in the rain and goes running to Affleck and jumps on him with passionate kissing. Then it becomes fantasy. Anyway, Harlii, Alan was spoofing the 'serious actor' aspect of himself in GQ. That shows he has a sense of humor, can laugh at himself and lighten up. Jules, I'm sure I have many less synapses than you, please enlighten me, what is so obvious about Dogma?
Vera
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 08:24:31 (PDT)

OK. I promise I shan't try anything clever like italics. But I am sad - sad, I tell you! - that some of my most fondly revered and respected denizens here seem unable (sorry - unwilling: you are far too intelligent to be unable) to see beyond the obvious in Dogma.
Kevin Smith is about the most devout Catholic I have ever come across. Can you not see beyond the profanity? Can you not see it for what it is?
I know several devout, God-fearing Christians of various denominations who are as foul-mouthed as he, for all that!:arbrow
Jules
UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 08:10:00 (PDT)

DOGMA SPOILER

Constance--count me in, although I prefer Pinot Grigio. But let's just track it forward to where he walks on water and be happy with that (giggles).
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 06:49:51 (PDT)

***Possible DOGMA SPOILERS***

I realize why Dogma bothered me so much. I sat on my bed and my muscles were tense as I watched it. I felt it was sacriligious on several levels. I felt like I was going to be struck down by lightning for watching it. For seeing Alannis, of all people, portraying God, doing handstands, etc. For hearing Bethany lash out at God in the manner that she did. Maybe it's my fundamentalist Christian upbringing, but while I realize there are faults with many religions, it still seems somewhat disrespectful to make fun of their beliefs, even to prove a point. And to see AR, an actor whom I admire and respect, involved in such a movie gives me pause regarding my good opinion of him. And the funny thing is, DkH & AABA didn't affect me the same way and that subject matter was just as strange as that of Dogma.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 06:38:25 (PDT)

EnsnaringSnape, don't be afraid to watch Dogma. It does have a lot of sexual jokes and bad language and one very embaressing scene with AR (I recommend an edited version if you're to watch it) but it's a good piece of comedy in some spots and some good acting, and also made me think by some of the things they said. But that's just me. I'm a Dogma supporter, except for all the bad parts (which, unfortunately, make up most of the movie). I think AR is adorable in the suit and the spikey black hair. *runs into the "Dogma" supporter tent and hides fromt the pelting tomatoes* Galaxy Quest is one of my all-time favorite comedies, and it is SO MUCH BETTER THAN DOGMA, it's an amazing script, it left me laughing outloud ten minutes after the movie had ended. I love the alien fish-head :D. Also, on another note on Snape, I'll be MORE than happy to be his love interest...he just needs someone to love in his life...*raises hand* Pick me, pick me!!!
ColonelGruber
- Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 06:37:36 (PDT)

Dogma......... oh dear.... THAT movie! I am still lost as to the humor of it. My dear husband says that there are valid truths in there and that I need to get past the ever regurgitated F-word and immature sexual jokes..... but NO. I am sorry. Once the poop in the toilet stared to congeal and walk about........ (no, I am not speaking symbolically), I was done with it! Left the room shaking my head and muttering Rickman's name in utter disbelief! But..... since this whole AR experience( the illness ) has left me with a "never say never" attitude towards life in general, I shall say that I will probably give it another go (since we do own it now...damn thing...progressive husband felt it was good for our teen sons to watch....lol..)But mind you, it might take a couple of glasses of red wine to get me in tolerant enough mood! Anyone care to join me? ;~)
Constance
Cary, NC 27513 - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 04:52:19 (PDT)

Vera, I can't give you an exact reference, but in a couple of the articles and interviews associated with Dogma, AR makes a point about how funny he thinks KS is and that one of the reasons he did Dogma was that he thought it was a very funny script. In another one of those articles, he singles out Chasing Amy as one of his favorite films. So it looks like he was a Kevin Smith fan even before he made a movie with him, and he still is, judging from the comaraderie I witnessed at one of my NY stage door experiences. (did I spell everything right--can't reach my dictionary at present..)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 04:07:15 (PDT)

Italics fixed.
Suz (D.o.C.)

Oops. Oh the italicised embarrassment of early morning sarcasm. Sorry Suze!
jules
UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 01:29:41 (PDT)

Vera, re Dogma:much of the humor of this film was lost on me
Really. You don't say.
jules
UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 01:28:38 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, (late answer, sorry), yes, the newspaper extract was adapted from Ruby Wax's How Do You Want Me. And since I am here, I cannot help jumping *on* the chorus like a ton of bricks (Magda won't mind, we've had this disagreement for a long time!;): I am not not noted for being indiscriminate (my friends have given up asking me to the cinema, because my opinion of most movies holds in a four-letter word starting with c that Suzanne would not allow here) but... I *love* Dogma. I don't particular like that *style* of movie, but this one is clever, light-hearted (why not?) and well-acted. A lot of the humour is tongue-in-cheek and at several levels... And for a serious point, catholicism vary an awful lot between countries. I recognized the particular brand he was gently laughing at very well. So did an Irish friend of mine... Ah, well, a matter of taste. *waves Dogma banner and runs for shelter*

GML
UK - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 00:00:01 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, how do you "know" Kevin Smith makes Alan laugh? My guess is that he did Dogma for the exposure to the audience that that movie would attract. But who knows, maybe he did think it was sincerely funny, (oh, please God, no). Did anyone see him in person and ask him how he felt about Dogma?
Vera
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 22:39:17 (PDT)

GQ is one of my favorites. It just doesn't fit the *serious actor* bit, in my opinion. That's all. I view,er, Barchester Chronicles as a comedy, but it's...different. I suppose with GQ the costume, headgear throughout the movie, even when he was *home* puts it on the level of just plain silliness...to me.

I hated the way Dogma was presented, but I agree that Smith was trying to make a point. I got it, as a Christian...not sure that it doesn't get lost on others. Not sure (unless I hear it from AR's lips) that AR chose Dogma for it's *message* and the comedic factor is...strained. I don't call what KS does comedy...I can't say what I call it here. Heh.
Harlii
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 18:47:50 (PDT)

Comic books. Hmmmmmm. Julia, you just set off a lightbulb over my head. Dogma might actually have worked if it had been an animated film!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 18:19:44 (PDT)

Hey is the video section going to be updated? It's hard to find good Alan Rickman video clips around, and I heard that back in the day this was the place to go! Great site otherwise! ;)
sara
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 17:56:50 (PDT)

Let's not forget that Kevin Smith is an icon in the teenage boy world of comic books, sex and profanity. But let's face it, Alan could have done worse; He could have been in a Tom Green film!! What was that discussion about a year back about young Alan looking like Tom Green? :-)
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 17:16:49 (PDT)

Oh, Harlii! How can you rank GQ with Dogma??? I like them both but GQ is a superior comedy and I would truly think AR picked that script based on its sheer brilliance! There has never ever EVER been a spoof film done so brilliantly and benovolently as GQ - it is truly a very cleaver script - especially if you are in the know about all the Star Trek TV series etc. And for all of Kevin Smiths desire to trash his movie, Dogma, with profanities and expletives throughout, if you were able to edit them all out (and possibly the senseless carnage at the end i.e. rewrite the ending!), then it is actually not a bad movie either. Its just he went for the 'teen' factor rather than a more intelligent approach like GQ.

Afterall, if the religious ones amongst us get past the fact it appears like he is trashing Catholicism, he isn't actually - just attacking a few of the inconsistencies of the bible itself and in the end, to a vague extent, clarifying them for the skeptics out there.

But please, never say GQ isn't an excellent pick! I think it was a MAGNIFICENT choice by AR and wish wholeheartedly he would do MORE comedy because for all his poignant drama roles, I think he excels at comedy, and that can't be said of many actors...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 16:54:55 (PDT)

Oh--and Ensnaring Snape. Don't be afraid to watch Dogma--AR's scenes are some of the loveliest he has ever filmed.
Ali-Pat
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 16:02:36 (PDT)

Magda--you nailed it with your assessment of Dogma. My sentiments exactly, even down to George Carlin doing a wittier job of ragging the Church. My overwhelming emotion at seeing Dogma the first time was anger at Kevin Smith for setting up such a great premise and eroding it away with infantile humor. Don't misunderstand me--I wasn't offended by his satire of the Church, but I was offended that he handled the satire so amateurishly. And I don't buy all his backpeddling about how surprised he was that people found parts of it offensive, and how it was meant to be a love letter to Catholics everywhere (or words to that effect).

I, too, am mystified by Alan's involvement in this and some rumored future project (I think the animated Dogma series might still be a possibility), but I do know Kevin Smith makes him laugh. Or maybe it is just a "guy" thing. Maybe he feels free to get in touch with his inner "guy" around KS. Tim Allen is always talking about "going to Men's Town" when he engages in "guy" activity. Maybe Alan and Kevin just hang out in Men's Town when they work together? If so, then ooooooookey-dokey, I can see that.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 15:54:34 (PDT)

i think that AR is really great and he deserves more credit for his hard work
jenny
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 15:34:09 (PDT)

Forgive me if this has been posted on the Guestbook already, but I just found it today and it gave me an enormous laugh!

Stalking Alan Rickman

(Remember--it is fiction.)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 15:29:09 (PDT)

OK, if you insist! I'll watch it at the weekend and let you know. All in the name of research you understand....!

I guess in his favour, he does look like he wears a lot of black in it...but then again, I'm not sure eyeliner really does it for me!!

:-/
ensnaringsnape
UK, - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 13:22:11 (PDT)

You should never be afraid to try new experiences. Go for it. (Look at it this way; he can't do worse than this.)
Magda
Canada - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 13:13:55 (PDT)

Below post edited.
Just because we're talking about a Kevin Smith Film, doesn't mean we should start using his language. Please, keep it clean, folks.
Suz (D.o.C.)

I liked Dogma for Alan (I didn't know who HE was when I saw it) but somehow I knew he was the best actor in the entire bunch. It also has a strong female lead who didn't take s**t from the 2 a**holes (Silent Bob & Jay). I'd say go for it and watch.
Maggie
NJ - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 13:04:54 (PDT)

Um, sitting on my mantelpiece is a DVD of Dogma that I borrowed last weekend from a friend to watch. I'm not 100% sure I'm looking forward to seeing it now. Just tell me - will it put me off him? I'm not convinced I like the way they've made him up just looking at the cover and at pics I've seen elsewhere.

Pleeeease tell me it won't put me off him. I'd hate to see him in a whole new light. Am I safer to stay in my own happy little world, or should I take the plunge? Help I'm scared now!
ensnaringsnape
UK, - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 12:59:02 (PDT)

And the famous "Ken Doll" scene that AR takes part in (and I hope the memory of it embarasses him so much that he learns to pick better scripts) made me long for electro-shock therapy so I could erase it from my brain.

Ahahahah! Totally agree. I was just thinking this morning that AR seems to have a major dichotomy in his nature. On the one hand he seems in certain instances/interviews to be such the *serious* actor...so concerned with his craft and the subject matter. And then there's Dogma or GQ that *appear* not to require the same amount of...depth...as his other films/projects. And one wonders if AR thinks after the fact, .
Harlii
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 12:41:44 (PDT)

One of Dogma's cleverer twists was a monster made out of excrement. I always thought that pretty much summed up the film. AR has some nice moments but if I ever watch it again it will be with my finger firmly on the fast forward button.
Cindie
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 12:22:49 (PDT)

And the famous "Ken Doll" scene that AR takes part in (and I hope the memory of it embarasses him so much that he learns to pick better scripts) made me long for electro-shock therapy so I could erase it from my brain.
Magda
Canada - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 11:28:38 (PDT)

I don't have the time and Suzanne doesn't have the bandwidth to enumerate the reasons I don't like Dogma. On the whole, I thought it was a very self-indulgent film; the production meetings between Kevin Smith the writer, Kevin Smith the actor and Kevin Smith the director were probably not fraught with creative tension. Smith's satire of the Catholic Church is radical only if your idea of the CC is Bing Crosby in "The Bells of St. Mary's" too-ra-loo-ra-looraling in cassock and robes. George Carlin did it better, shorter, cheaper and funnier 30 years ago in his taped comedy routine about growing up Catholic.
Magda
Canada - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 11:26:46 (PDT)

Inger, I like "try to fashion some kind of rudimentary lathe". When members of my household are completely frustrated with some task, I like to quote that line. They usually come after my with various blunt instruments. ( I think that's what he says, correct me if I'm wrong.)
Vera
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 11:18:54 (PDT)

Two things no one has mentioned about Dogma, one is the misogynism. I was really turned off by how one of the characters, (the movie didn't impress me enough for the names to register), talked to and about women. I remember a diner scene where I was so disgusted and offended by how the long blonde haired guy talked about women. Hard to imagine a female character degrading men like that and still remaining likable. That's because it's okay to put women down. Second, I guess I haven't seen enough violent films to be immune to watching people being shot in the head at point-blank range. For an American audience, that's all part of the fun and no one bats an eye. I had to look away. I'm not Catholic and not familiar with it's rules and regulations, so much of the humor of this film was lost on me.
Vera
- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 11:15:37 (PDT)

Please film gods, say it "ain't" so!
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 07:48:59 (PDT)

Madonna to 'cameo' in "Love Actually"? See News page.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 06:37:01 (PDT)

Vera: Does any of the quotes mention a certain hammer? ;-)

I had never read any HP before I saw the film and AR as Snape made such an impression that I had to read the books. I like them to, and I just become more and more fond of Prof. Snape. I don't consider him bad, he's just not pleased with his life, which makes him unsocial. Give him someone to love, that loves him back and he will be more 'relaxed'. (any volunteers? ;-)) He's skilled and has integrity...(ehmm, it seems) and still looks kind of vulnerable. *swoon* (thank's for that new word in my vocabulary)
Inger
Gothenburg, Sweden - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 02:01:00 (PDT)

Sue (the other one) - thanks a million - you made my day! Priority number one today will be to order it now for a birthday treat! Thanks again.
Sue
Lincoln, Sue - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 23:08:44 (PDT)

ColonelGruber, you are too late - "In Demand" has been and gone... The song is 2 years old and by the looks of it, is no longer being produced as a CD single anymore (and its the single you want - thats the one with the video clip!). Best place to find it now is on websites (real stores??) that sell these things or eBay.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 16:39:16 (PDT)

Dark Harbor, Dark Harbor. Now there's a pip of a film. At the end of it, I sat slack-jawed thinking, "did I accidentally fall asleep in the middle and miss something?" This film definitely improves on the second watching--once you know the ending, you can see all the pieces falling into place along the way. But I think that is too much for a director to ask of a viewer--being too subtle and too clever just clutters the plot and loses people. Still, I find myself watching this film often because AR has so much screen time, and he uses it so well. So, don't think--drink in all those lovely AR scenes!

Ensnaring Snape, your comment about loving AR in black has started the Beatles song Baby's in Black looping about in my brain. Thanks a bunch. (wry grin)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 16:27:53 (PDT)

I know this is my third post in a row and I hope no one minds but I just rethought one of my earlier statements. I do like HP, but I'm not a huge fan. I've read all 4 books and seen the movie, and am looking forward to the 2nd movie. As time goes by and I read the books over again and watch the movie more and more, I am becoming more fond of it. So I DO like HP, but for the moment I'm not a huge fan...doesn't mean I won't be, though hee hee.
ColonelGruber
- Monday, September 23, 2002 at 16:04:14 (PDT)

Forgive me (watch as my brain flies out the window...), I forgot to mention--EnsnaringSnape, GREAT site! I have been exploring it and think it's awesome :). I look forward to see what you're going to do with it! Now to ruin the keyboard by drooling over Snape pics.
ColonelGruber
- Monday, September 23, 2002 at 15:55:32 (PDT)

EnsnaringSnape, I know what you mean. I, personally, think RHPOT is where AR looks his best. Don't worry, I'm not trying to pick on RHPOT...I love the film!! It's my second favorite AR film in the world. Die Hard is my favorite, with RHPOT coming in second. If it weren't for DH, RHPOT would be my favorite. I agree with you that Snape didn't get enough coverage. We didn't see enough of him! I am not an HP fan but I watched the movie for AR, and I don't really like the movie but I LOVE Snape, and he's one of my all-time favorite characters. And I, too, am a sucker for AR when he's dressed all in black. I would also like to add my opinion on the discussion of Dogma and Dark Harbor. (This contains a few POSSIBLE SPOILERS.) Dogma is one of my all-time favorite AR films. It does have a bit too much sexual mentions and language in it for my taste, but like others have said, most if it comes from Jay and that is how he is created, to not do it is going against his character. I think Dogma is hilarious and it has also made me think because of some of the things they mentioned, and I think it is a very well-acted and well-done movie. Plus I love Kevin Smith. Dark Harbor, on the other hand, is a different story. I totally agree with Kathy. When I watched Dark Harbor I was very surprised with the ending and somewhat aggrivated with the movie, because I thought it would've made a better ending if they hadn't done what they did with David and the man. I think it has an extroadinary (sp?) acting job for AR, especially in the scene right before he chases the man into the woods, and the supporting actors do a passable job. I'm not saying I wouldn't watch it again to re-examine it, but this is just what I got out of it when I first watched it. I probably wouldn't rent it again, but I would watch it if it came on TV. Okay, that was another one of my long boring winded musing moments LOL :). Now off to watch something AR!
ColonelGruber
- Monday, September 23, 2002 at 15:51:48 (PDT)

ColonelGruber - what you said about not getting why any woman in her right mind would go for Costner's character over Nottingham - I totally agree - I mean come on! Any guy who dresses entirely in black (let alone covered in studs) has to be a bigger turn on than one who looks like he's been dragged through a hedge backwards! And that's even before you get to the man behind the Nottingham character himself!

Say what you like but RHPOT is still my all-time AR film. At the time I watched it beacause I thought Costner was cute..(I was young then, what can I say?!) but mid-way through the film I'd converted and can safely say I never looked back!

Now, why then am I now devoted to Snape? And why is HP not my favourite AR film? Well, mainly because Snape's character in the first HP film didn't get enough coverage. If AR hadn't been in the film, frankly I'd only have watched it the once. But having since read more Snapefic than I thought was writeable, I've fallen for the character as much as the actor. Sorry!

But at the end of the day its all irrelevant cos I guess I just love AR dressed all in black.

Excuse me while I nip off for a cold shower...

:-s
EnsnaringSnape
UK - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 15:02:38 (PDT)

(sigh) Upon reviewing my last post I found it riddled with grammar and spelling errors. I apologize for the rough reading. Also, though I meant what I said, I'm almost never convicted so feel free to try and change my mind.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
MO USA - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 14:55:32 (PDT)

Strange. I'm fond of both Dark Harbor and Dogma. (There may be SPOILERS in this post.) The first time I watched Dark Harbor I thought it was okay. It affected me in an odd way. I suppose I had never thought of a movie being structured that way before (I don't mean the twists). It opened my eyes to whole new perspective of film. I liked it because it wasn't mainstream American directing. The second time I watched it I liked the storyline and the acting even better because I caught on to a lot of things that I didn't in the first viewing. In subsequent viewings, however, I've lost some great amount of any respect I had for Adam Coleman Howards work. In the kitchen scene the morning after the poison ivy incident when Howard attempts to show the growing fury and storm of emotions as words get heated the camera does things that made my stomach flip in very bad ways. It's one thing to use the camera to stir the film up, it's another to give the audience naseau and a migraine! It has been a while since I've seen this so I'm going to have to go get it and view again. You'll get a much more in depth review when I do see it again. The acting was for the most part incredible. To me now it is the saving grace of the film.

I love Dogma. Yes there is a lot of swearing. There always is in KS's films. I'm not sure why he does this. In Chasing Amy, the film that made me fall in love with View Askew, the swearing was realistic. In Dogma most of the swearing was Jay's. Jay was an established character who has always sworn. To tone Jay's cursing down would not have been true to character. I was really happy for KS when this film came out because it really was such big film, to me, for him. I like his work because I find it to be original in perspective and presentation. Dogma was hilarious. It was a wonderful satire about the modern day, set in modern day tones. AR was a complete doll. I've heard a lot of people say that he looked like crap in this film. I think he got the look he went for. From what I hear he was going for the 'jaded rock-star whose been on the scene for some time' look. I think he hit it right on the spot. I see it as a satire that is somewhat farce and certainly has a moral. My friends and I, who have watched this film many times have mostly different ideas on whatever moralis being conveyed so I leave that bit to your own interpretation.

Just thought I'd give my defense on these two films. While I realize they are far from perfect and have many oddities and occasionally holes you could drive a bus through I think they each have their own cinematic marit.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Missouri USA - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 14:50:14 (PDT)

Well, I felt the very same way about Dark Harbor as Kathy. I thought I would never watch it again. However, I did watch it again, and it was totally different, just because I understood so much more the second time around. I think you should give it another try. My husband swore the movie off forever, and he changed his mind too after I convinced him to watch it again. Makes so much more sense once you know whats going on.
nanc
ks us - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 13:53:54 (PDT)

Magda, Just curious as to why you consider Dogma to be a complete waste of celluloid. While Blow Dry isn't Casablanca, its still a nice little amusing film. Dogma, is one of my favorite AR films. Take aware the overuse of profanity( think how really good the script would have been if Smith hadden gotten so lazy with overkill)and it becomes a very witty, contempory satire of modern religious beliefs. True, its about 10 minutes too long, but the inspired casting and fine performances more then make up for it. Now if were talking about total waste of film, my vote goes to Dark Harbor, A film I've only watched once-and once was more then enough. I found it to have NO redeeming values at all. On a side note, a friend knows how ga-ga I am about AR, so she watched DH just because she's my friend and it starred Rickman-her vote-another two hours of her life she'll never get back! Now thats's friendship for you!
Kathy
Lewiston, Me USA - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 13:41:47 (PDT)

Helen, I agree with you that that is what is happening in the movie but I think the script leaves AR hanging out there for long periods of time and relies on the audience to fill in the blanks, as it were. The Phil Allen who tells his son that if he wants to partake in the competition with his mother then he can leave and not come back, is not the Phil Allen of the end of the movie and we have not seen the transformation explained adequately. The audience has to do a lot of heavy lifting that the filmmakers should have done themselves.
Magda
Canada - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 13:39:13 (PDT)

Does anybody know if the DVD that features "In Demand" is in the USA or soon to be released? I am dying to see it. Also, everyone who got to see "Rasputin" today is extra lucky...I don't have the channel!! *sobs* In a fatal attempt to cheer myself up, I watched a back-to-back showing of RHPOT. What I can't understand is why Marian chose the American-accented man over our beautiful Sheriff. Any woman in her right mind would choose the Sheriff. I wouldn't mind being the object of the Sheriff's affections...hee hee. It's probably because the bad guys never get the girl in movies. :P Also, GML, thank you for the excellent excerpt from the article. :) And EnsnaringSnape, I shall look at your website as soon as I can. Right now I am being kicked off the internet (by connection AND by family members), but I will see what I can do later ^-^.
ColonelGruber, the Object of the Sheriff's Affections
- Monday, September 23, 2002 at 13:33:58 (PDT)

Magda brings up an excellent point about the importance of good scripts. "Blow Dry" was a much-tampered with film, wasn't it? It shows. The best film history class I ever had at UCLA consisted of the following: the professor very briefly explained why he thought the film was important, then just as briefly explained the circumstances under which the film was made. Then the film ran for us to conclude our own insights. A film presenting its own merits, tempered by some insider industry info. Good way to study a highly collaborative art form.
FastFilm
Los Angeles , - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 13:25:51 (PDT)

Sue Lincoln- Yes it DEFINITELY does have the "In Demand " video on that dvd. Until you see it on widescreen, surroundsound you haven't lived!!;)
Sue
- Monday, September 23, 2002 at 13:14:59 (PDT)

Magda, I think Phil Allen's change of heart was due to a little bit more than Sandra having a tantrum. He found out that his ex wife had been battling against cancer in recent years, that she'd never loved any other MAN (which meant a lot to Phil as it helped him understand a bit better) and that the cancer coming back had devastated Sandra, thus making him realise that she loved his wife just as much as he did. I also believe he felt he owed it to his son, and to all of them, not least himself, to give it his best shot. Just my humble opinion. I do like this film very much, despite Josh Hartnett who is the most wooden actor I have evr seen.
Helen
Cheshire, UK - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 12:57:35 (PDT)

Please does anyone know whether the Texas-Live in Paris DVD has THE video for In Demand. It doesn't actually say, but does have In Demand on it and it just says some videos from greatest hits - sounds a bit loose for my liking. Just wondered whether anyone knew for definite? Thankyou kindly!
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 12:21:00 (PDT)

I was hoping no one would mention the bathtub scene because it was one of the two scenes that just did not work for me at all. Does it make sense that Phil, after nursing the Mother of All Grudges for a full decade, would suddenly morph into Mr. Sensitivity just because Sandra yelled at him and then cried? I was disappointed that Sandra turned into a wimp at the end.

Still, I don't regard BD as a bad film in the sense of being an absolute waste of celluloid like Dogma. I would slot it into the "Could Have Been Better With More Effort" column with Judas Kiss, Mesmer and QDU. Maybe even January Man.

As for Galaxy Quest, it's a good example of a film that works well because the plot is tightly focussed. Just when the Trek satire element has gone as far as it can go, it turns into a semi-serious adventure movie. Great sense of timing. Good script.
Magda
Canada - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 10:31:13 (PDT)

About Blow Dry - ok it's not the best film AR has done. I grew up about 15 miles from where this film takes place. There are towns and villages that you think time has forgot around there. That's where people get their strange ideas about people from Yorkshire being thick!! In a sense, it's a bit nostalgic for me. People really do walk around calling everyone "love/lovey"!!!! You might consider the next paragraph to be a Spoiler So - as for the film and man himself.... not a bad accent - coming from a Yorkshire girl like me that's a big compliment!! Hair is a bit iffy.... nice hands shots. I really like the bit when he and Shelley's girlfriend are in the bath on the hillside!! It's kind of funny but kind of sad, too. Josh Hartnett ruins it for me. He's a bit wooden. The contest is great and I love the tattoo bit. It's not such a bad film; let's face it, we have to appreciate what we can get!! POTENTIAL SPOILER OVER Oh, by the way, I'm having a complete nightmare getting hold of films like Mesmer etc. I really want DVD but can't seem to get it in the UK and the USA stores have the wrong regional setting. Am I missing any great DVD extras by getting VHS videos instead? Can't wait for the new Harry Potter, nor can I wait to see the new film Love Actually. What a great cast! Have to wait until next year, though.
Gill Ranson <gillmr@dialstart.netfoo>
Harrogate, England - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 09:55:40 (PDT)

My brain can't be bothered to even notice the details of a poor movie. I just read the reviews of Blow Dry here and I'm amazed at all I missed. I just stared at Alan when he was on. I didn't notice a blind old lady, or the relatives at the contest, or someone's background. Wow. When nothing registers, the movie, for me, is bad. I didn't realize how bad this one was 'til I read all these details and didn't recognize one! Galaxy Quest I noticed. That movie was very funny, I can quote lines from it...
Vera
- Monday, September 23, 2002 at 09:24:17 (PDT)

I saw rasputin last night and i must say it was wonderful. I was reduced to a gibbering wreck on the floor when he started throwing the vases around and then he fell to his knees and said 'I wouldn sit my wrists if i knew for one moment it woould make you happy'. Yum. And i haven't actually seen all of it yet, but the performance is incredibly passionate and i reccomend it to all of you. J P.S He's hairy.
Jizel <insanerickmaniac@aol.com>
RASPUTIN SPOLIERS, - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 04:28:51 (PDT)

i've been around, have a job, moved into a flat, didnt have internet access, had other things to do when i did have internet access, etc etc etc....y'know.
flamingkitties
- Monday, September 23, 2002 at 00:07:23 (PDT)

Thanks for your support everyone. Its getting there, but there's a long way to go. I'm just so excited people have been to visit! :-)
EnsnaringSnape
UK - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 22:41:34 (PDT)

I should mention - I do agree with you, Magda, although BD was a bit more watchable (for me - I know everyone out there has differing opinions on AR's movies...)
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 22:20:11 (PDT)

Well Magda, if Blow Dry was another AR film placed in the wrong genre bucket, it must surely lie right beside that great comedy, "An Awfully Big Adventure..."
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 22:19:23 (PDT)

Hey, Flamingkitties! Yer back!! Where ya been?????
Mesmer's Patient
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 17:19:57 (PDT)

i think alan rickamn is a wonderful actor and i love him to death. Im also very excited about the 2nd HP movie due out this november!!!!...yee haw...cant wait!!
rainie
san fran, CA - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 16:34:30 (PDT)

one assumes the Britsh boarders know Rasputin is on BBC2 right now!?
flamingkitties
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 16:15:17 (PDT)

Yes Esnaring Snape is a wonderful site. I loved the Sounds and photos section. Also thanks again to Suzanne for "The Preacher" I was very moved when he spoke about his "Soulmate" and his son. I don't recall Alan ever speaking with quite so much longing and tenderness before. I watched it last night and that part has stayed with me since.
Lily
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 14:45:52 (PDT)

Ensnaring Snape: It's a beautiful site!

I saw Galaxy Quest last night and it was wonderful! Well, I do like science fiction, but I was more thinking of how much AR it contained. As Claudia found him gorgeous even caked in mud, I found him gorgeous in that rubberhead!;)
Inger
Gothenburg, Sweden - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 14:22:47 (PDT)

Well......I can't put my finger on it exactly, Magda, but I think I found BD endearing overall in a kind of folklorish or fablish way. Never having been to any part of England, and only knowing what I know from films and TV (and Bill Bryson), I don't know what resemblance there is between this mythical village of people and reality, but I took it for broad caricature. And it is that caricature I enjoyed--all those slightly odd people with their weird quirks and situations. Yet they all work together somehow and get through things and move the film along. I know I'm not making sense here, but to me the film, with all its parts, make up a whole I find completely captivating. Perhaps I liked it for the same reason I like flea markets.

As for specific endearing parts, Phil is a large one for various reasons. Also, I love the way Sandra reacts to things, especially when she is riled--saying she has no elegance, but she has a BIG BOOT. I actually think she got all the best lines--stole scenes from Rickman for a change. I also really loved the relationship between Shelly and ???(Rosemary Harris's character). Fake cataracts or no, their interactions are lovely. I also found all the mugging and over-the-top acting very, very funny--the Mayor, Ray Robertson, his partner (is there an animal print he does not like?), all those little bits of business from the various hairdressers and townspeople. I guess I found it all endearing because there is a part of me that absolutely loves schtick (but only in the right hands).

Can't explain it really. But I place BD in the same category with other wacky, ridiculous movies, like Best in Show, or Ed Wood, or Tune in Tomorrow. And I gotta sweet tooth for dat stuff.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 13:08:41 (PDT)

Has anyone else in the UK/London seen AR since he returned? Is he scheduled to be at any Public events soon?
Betty
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:45:13 (PDT)

Thanks GML for the Ruby Wax excerpt. I suppose her success has allowed her to have the last laugh.
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:30:03 (PDT)

Hi guys! I've updated my Alan Rickman Page with DVD pics of In Demand. Just enjoy Alan! I wish I had met Alan in Harrods, but then again, I live in Holland and are not really close to London! Well, maybe some other time!
Stezi <stezi@wxs.nlfoo>
The Netherlands - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:23:50 (PDT)

Sorry about the extremely short notice. I JUST found out!
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
MO USA - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:22:38 (PDT)

I think that Truly Madly Deeply is coming on AMC RIGHT THIS INSTANT!!! If you get that channel!
Brit
USA - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:20:46 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, I would have liked the film better if the script had had more faith that the audience could be trusted to get the point. The old wise woman (I can never use that phrase without thinking of Blackadder) who imparts her life wisdom has to be made as pathetic as possible. Shelley can't just want the people she loves in different ways to be friends; she has to be dying of cancer too (not a spoiler; first 5 minutes of the film). When the pathos is laid on with a trowel, you know you're watching a film that is nervous about its reception.

What were the endearing parts you liked?
Magda
Canada - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:20:01 (PDT)

Maresa, In London does AR get a lot of attention in Public or are the folks there used to him and just let him be?? Have there been any other Rickman "sightings" in London.
Lonnie,
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:17:11 (PDT)

GML--Thanks for that fascinating excerpt. Is it from Ruby Wax--How Do You Want Me??
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:09:23 (PDT)

Well Magda, of course I'm gonna disagree with you on BD! I guess I am a sap (as my initials seem to indicate), but the endearing parts of the film enable me to turn a blind eye to its deficiencies. However, I appreciate your viewpoint and admire your powers of insight. And I have to admit I agree with you about the "Winter" hairstyle--it really was the most creative of the bunch.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 12:06:29 (PDT)

'evening!

I can't believe she's made me buy the Daily Torygraph, but a big title mentioning Ruby Wax caught my eye, so I got a copy to read in the cinema while waiting for the film to start (Cabaret, if you must know, a favourite but I had never seen it on the big screen. Brilliant). Anyway, the Telegraph is publishing extracts from RW's book and I thought you might be interested in a reference she makes to her life during her RSC days. Uh, it makes a lot more sense if you have read what she has explained about her somewhat colourful parents before, but I could not find the article online to copy, and I don't want to spend the whole night typing! Suffice it to say that no, they were not actors :)

(...) My parents visited me constantly, and the whole Royal Shakespeare Company would fight for seats at the house I shared with Alan Rickman. We used to call my parents the Scuds, as in missiles. When my mother showed up, she'd drop her bags, and re-enter, sweeping with a broom, and for an encore she'd drop to her knees and clean the corners of the rooms. Then my father would enter in a Swiss Alpine hat with feather, tweed jacket and cigar jutting out of his mouth, firing rapid machine-gun insults at me. The sofas overflowed with Jonathan Pryce, Zoe Wannamaker and David Suchet, all watching with bated breath. After paticularly vicious one-liners, the audience would erupt in applause.

My parents continuously observed how crazy the Royal Shakespeare Company must have been to let me join. My father would observe "Well, they must be going down the drain for them to take her." My mother would harmonise with "I think the theatre is after her money." After the shows, he used to snarl at me "Whoever you're playing, you'r always Ruby Wax".

He used to take Rickman aside and ask him seriously how many people were laughing at me and how big a fool was I making out of myself. "Come on, you and I know she's a sad sack and a kook." Alan would respond: "No, actually Mr Wax, she's very talented." And my father would come back with, "What do you know, you're a communist." (...)

Well, that remark made my day! :) - and now we know who did the cleaning in their place! ... Gee, and I thought *my* dad was rather unsupportive! This puts things in perspective. To paragraph a certain Sheriff of Notthingham, it's amazing she's sane. She must have been appreciative of friendhip at the time. Anyway, the whole thing's worth a read: it's both very funny and very sad.

Off to the pub...

GML
UK - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 11:38:00 (PDT)

Maresa, YOU ARE SO LUCKY!! If I ever passed AR on the street or met him in public I would pass out on the spot. I'd probably act like a gibbering idiot and make a fool of myself fainting on the spot. At least maybe I can satisfy myself with watching "Rasputin" tomorrow for the first time...IF I have the station, that is...and everybody, make sure to hit the little button labeled "record" :D.
ColonelGruber
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 11:00:34 (PDT)

Well, I gotta give it to ya Magda. I positively loved that review of Blow Dry. I totally agree. When I saw Josh Hartnett in Black Hawk Down and sumpin' else, I was like, "Eeeewww! He's the kid who can't talk in BD!" However, he seems to be very popular in the U.S. for some strange reason. And I, too, didn't get the Heidi Klum on the video box connection. Sorry to say I didn't even know who she was...anyway, great review...
Harlii
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 09:31:49 (PDT)

HI,Girls! I'm glad there is no age limit to being a fan of AR as I'm proberbly old enough to be your Mother, but to appreciate talent like his you only need eyes and a sense of humour. Thanks for your comments I was wondering when our American cousins were going to send him back to us? I hope the problem with his voice has cleared up can you imagine!!! no, don't even think about it. Can our UK fans tell me if we have a web site that is (a) up to date (b) as good as the US ones and (c) keeps us AR starved of information fans satisfied. I wish!
Mary <m-kerman@connectfree.co.ukfoo>
UK - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 07:54:22 (PDT)

I watched Blow Dry again last night and confirmed my first impression last year that Simon Beaufoy was right to take legal steps to get his name off the production. Has there ever been a comedy where people cried so much? It is a great pity that a movie that starred AR (first in the credits list; blink and you'll miss it) is so - to be charitable - uneven in quality.

Ten years from now when Josh Hartnett is popping up in "Where are They Now?" articles, savvy movie writers will point to BD as the place the downward trajectory began. What a mumbler! And such a bad accent. A question to Brits on the GB: are there no other words than "summat" and "luuuuv" to indicate that a setting is in northern England?

This isn't really a comedy with real-life butting in (like The Full Monty) but more like a tear-jerker with inappropriate joke scenes. Nor is the film helped by the pace which must fly along if it's to cram all the side stories into 90 minutes. The whole Heidi Klum/two brothers subplot could have snipped (NOT a pun) without any loss to the film. In fact, why is Klum featured on the back of the DVD as if she was a major part? She's practically product placement. The kids falling in love is also a drag on the action. Sandra's bad attitude about her poor background comes along too late since we've already defined her character. And does the plucky, sick, lonely, hospitalized old lady have to be blind too? Like we couldn't get the point that she's inspirational otherwise?

The plot also asks you to hang your suspended disbelief in a big closet for the duration. Phil has never forgiven Sandra and Shelley for The Big Betrayal and doesn't want anything to do with hairstyling again, yet the trophies are beside the front door and the winning photos are on all the walls. The cheating Ray pulls a nasty trick on the other hairstylists in the first competition but the judges don't drop everything to find and eliminate the culprit. Characters do things for strange reasons just because its necessary for the plot at that moment: our heroes driving out to the rural B&B to discover Ray setting up another trick and do nothing about it; Sandra mopes about her background so that Phil can create a big moment for her that is cringe-inducing for the audience; angry relatives chase Hartnett's character out of the competition to exact revenge but 30 minutes later say they don't really care about the cause anyway.

The film has some good moments, especially Bill Nighy as the cheating Ray and Warren Clarke as the small-town mayor getting caught up in the spirit of the thing as the competition progresses. The background hairdressers are great and the creations rather interesting (I liked Ebony in Winter sneezing sparklies all over the place; she'd have won if I'd been a judge). Natasha Richardson shows that you can't keep a third-generation actor down no matter what the material and Rachael Leigh Cooke is as cute as a bug's ear in her do-it-herself pixie cut. Rachel Griffiths cries well and Josh Hartnett sucks.

And AR? He's got a lot of screen-time and within the narrow confines that he has to work with, makes the best of pouty Phil. Throughout the film you can believe (albeit sometimes just barely) that Phil would react that way in real life. And for those of you who care, his hair looks fine.

But I can't help regretting that the film wasn't made 10 years ago. Then AR would have been cast as the cheating Ray and he would have been so much fun to watch, especially in the opening scenes where he's wielding two spraycans and practically gassing the model.
Magda
Canada - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 07:50:54 (PDT)

ooooh my god,what did I write? I�m sorry. :)
verena - the next morning
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 07:39:12 (PDT)

Christine, I have wondered the same thing, and for the same reason. I am 41 and my memory started deteriorating in my late thirties. Maybe having children jump-started the decline. I've often wondered how middle-aged actors remember all those lines. I draw blanks so often. AR did say on Charlie Rose that he had a fear of forgetting lines. Some GBers who saw the play said he did seem to forget lines at times. Still, it seems an amazing feat to be constantly memorizing streams of dialogue as your brain ages. Probably keeps him sharp. BTW, remember, AR has said, along with many other celebrities, that journalists routinely make up quotes, as well as entire interviews. The question is not only when he said the pink lurex quote, but if he ever said it at all.
Vera
- Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 07:31:35 (PDT)

How true, Claudia. What is wrong with shopping in Harrods, if you are a Socialist?? I have,& I am a Socialist, and it took me a LONG time to get there. Jules, what are you getting at?
Barbara the Aussie
Gold Coast, Australia - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 06:33:37 (PDT)

Oh, your in for a treat, Ensnaring Snape! Rasputin is an excellent showcase of The Man's talent.

I'm curious, Jules. How does being seen in Harrod's prove he's not betraying his socialist roots.....or are you just being facetious?
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 06:01:35 (PDT)

Set your videos all those with access to BBC2...

"Rasputin" is on at 12.10am GMT tommorrow morning.

Havn't seen it myself yet, looking forward to it immensely!
EnsnaringSnape
UK, - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 05:10:35 (PDT)

Maresa - You don't sound overly-excited about having seen AR in Harrods - EEEK! If it'd been me I'd have probably hyperventilated and passed out on the spot! I always thought that if I saw someone famous on the street, I'd play it real cool, say a causal "hi" and walk on. But last month coming back from a show in London we pulled up at traffic lights and Sean Connery walked past the coach! No kidding! Did I play it cool? Hardly - I did a fair impression of a gibbering idiot and nearly passed out on my friend's lap! If the coach hadn't taken off I'd have jumped off running! OK so noone other than the coach full would believe us afterwards and I'll never know if it was him, but it made my day! If It'd been AR - Harrods or not I'd probably be in hospital right about now!
EnsnaringSnape
UK, - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 03:50:20 (PDT)

Harrods, huh? So pleased he's not betraying his socialist roots.
Jules
UK - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 03:15:13 (PDT)

Tami, I have to agree with you. And also, everyone has to start somewhere. Whether they're teenyboppers or OAPs at least they're out there giving it a go and giving people something to look at, whether they last or not. I guess trying to get mine going has made me a tad defensive, but don't forget if it wasn't for the bad ones, would we appreciate the good ones so much? Originality is another issue - its not easy to find something that's not been done before. If I do I'll let you know! Incidentally - I'm 34 and no teeny-bopper. At least kids have an excuse for having these crushes/obsessions - at my age perhaps I should know better than to spend my life drooling over pictures of AR! But hey - everyone has to have a hobby right?! :-S EnsnaringSnape ps. I'll be moving mine to somewhere else in the not too distant future - with NO ADVERTS on - cos I know exactly what you mean. And I'll keep mine going for as long as people keep comimg back. :-)
EnanaringSnape
UK, - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 03:06:33 (PDT)

Sally, I think you generalize too much about the new AR fans being "teenyboppers." I think since HP is so big and interests kids, many older women have discovered Alan too through their children, or at least been reminded of him again. I wouldn't worry about the teenagers and their crushes, it's their nature to grow and move on to something else and eventually the fly-by-night websites will go by the wayside. Some of them already have. What gets on my nerves are commercial sites with pop-up adds and advertisements. Drives me crazy.
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 22:02:53 (PDT)

Lisa, the lead in the film The Madness of King George was taken by the late Sir Nigel Hawthorne. Not AR, but very close.

Nice site, Ensnaring Snape. Great choice of sound files!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 20:15:12 (PDT)

HI all....!!!! Just thought I'd let you all know that I saw Alan Rickman in the flesh today in Harrods, LOndon looking to buy a new telly!! Very exciting!!!! What a stunner!!! Maresa x
Maresa <maresa.c@ntlworld.comfoo>
Glasgow, Scotland - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 17:34:25 (PDT)

Magda, I have the video and to tell you the truth, it is very difficult to tell whether Roux is preaching to an empty church or not. There are no sounds at all coming from the congregation. But when he is talking about his helpmate/soulmate and son and then says "No more of that...not for your ears or yours or yours" he does look at three different places in the audience. That led me to believe that maybe there were people present. Just my 2 cents...maybe someone has a take on this or better yet an historical account of it.

Catherine...loved your trivia!

Amanda--wasn't the way he held onto the "st" in "Don't molest anything" just breathtaking??? LOL
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 15:07:38 (PDT)

ColonelGruber - thankx for trying! I just went in myself to check and got the message that the file transfer something-or-other was exceeded, when I clicked on more info and then hit the "back" button it refreshed ok and went in. It'll teach me for using a free Geocities web address I guess, but I'm still learning and its all good fun! Hope you get in, keep trying it may just be that a few people are actually looking at it! You never know - stranger things have happened! Thanks again for looking, and if you get in, let me know if you think I need to add anything or if you've got any ideas. Off to bed now tho - just got home. :-) EnsnaringSnape.
EnsnaringSnape
- Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 15:01:22 (PDT)

@Catherine: And who played King something?
Lisa
Bavaria, - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 14:49:49 (PDT)

EnsaringSnape--I am interested in your website and tried to access it but every time I tried to it gave me the "this page cannot be displayed" message. My net connection today is TERRIBLE, and absolutely nothing on my comp is working, so that might be it...I'm not sure yet. I must admit, out of all the AR characters, I have fallen head-over-heels in love with Hans *THUD*. But Snape is one of the best, most definently hee *cough cough* :X
ColonelGruber
- Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 14:43:08 (PDT)

Hello again everyone! I've not posted here for AGES simply because "Real Life" has been busy lately (nothing bad, thankfully), but I try and catch up with the posts as and when I can. Felt I had to add a mini bit of AR trivia tonight; was just watching "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" and "Alan Rickman" was one of the option answers to the question Who played the title role in The Madness of King George? As I just love to hear our Alan's name in ANY kind of context, it was a thrill for me! Just thought I'd let you know!
Catherine - busy, busy, busy!
Reading, England - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 14:36:54 (PDT)

Missing and merged posts were caused by an html error. All fixed now!
Suz (D.o.C.)

Gee, and now the first of my three posts (the one about the 'Unreel' magazine) has completely disappeared! And I didn't even use any rude words! Did my remarks on the Country Alliance march in London upset anybody? ;) That makes one out of three left! *bangs head against wall, bursts out crying and shouts "nobody loves me!"* :)

Goes off to bed.

GML
UK - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 14:22:18 (PDT)

OK, I understand why my cheap-AR-movies link never appeared: I forgot a set of "s, here it is again (I hope):

cduniverse.com

But why on earth my post was signed up as 'Claire' is a complete mystery to me. I put down my own name *laughs*, I swear! *rolls her eyes right and left and puts down Terry Pratchett book*... there's dark magic at work...

GML (not Claire, promised!) (No, no, nothing wrong with being Claire, but I'm not;)
UK, France, Papua New Guinea, whatever the GB fancies... :) - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 14:08:44 (PDT)

The 'Unreel' magazine ... (which tends to turn up on Ebay, I have noticed) is a freebie 'current movies' rag, and good value for money, if you see what I mean. As I remember, the interview claimed to be genuine (our guy 'so and so' talked to Alan Rickman bla bla bla) but it's likely enough they got a few answers out of him in a doorway and padded the rest with bits from past interviews. Not important...

GML (annoyed because she had to cancel a trip to London after remembering the Countryside Alliance march (+ BNP who will tag on anything) is on tomorrow)
UK - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 13:41:22 (PDT)

Magda - the Church is empty except for The Preacher and his dog.

Unreel is a cinema giveaway not noted for the quality or originality of their interviews . Not only do I suspect that the Hamley's paragraph was lifted, but the actor in LA part sounded suspiciously familiar.

Yes, we hear stories round more than once in interviews, verbally and in print, but they do not tend to read/sound indentical.

Claire
- Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 13:13:06 (PDT)

Managed to download "The Preacher" and found it well worth the waiting time. You're right Suzanne: it's a very visually dark film. I could not make out anything beyond AR's face and hand gestures and only in the last cutaway did I actually see the dog.

I would strongly urge those who haven't looked yet to do so. It's a very strong portrait of a man whose religions have failed him and whose high standards will not allow him to forgive God for allowing misery on earth. AR handles quite well the shift from the fervent revolutionary to the well-intentioned man wondering where it all went wrong and steeling himself (no pun intended) to die. A very touching moment when he describes his wife and son and cuts himself off because he cannot bear to linger on the subject. On a more prosaic note, it's an amazing display of breath control as AR speaks almost non-stop for 20 minutes.

One question: I assume the church is empty but I cannot be sure as I could not make out anything in the darkness. Is it?

Trivia: as I was listening I kept imagining that I had heard this particular voice somewhere else and it came to me at the end. It's the same voice he used for Captain Hook in AABA.
Magda
Canada - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 12:02:55 (PDT)

ich liebe euch alle!! *lol* yeah! und erst recht liebe ich diese seite!!

sorry,but today it is a PERFECT day :)
verena
- Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 10:35:08 (PDT)

Forgot to add this: since he is required to remember so many lines of dialogue when he does a play, I guess remembering a few "rehearsed" short stories wouldn't be too hard to do (for him or for other actors). That ability to remember so many lines (along with all the physical acting that goes along with it) and repeat it night after night really amazes me (obviously a non-actor). The older I get, I find myself more often unable to come up with a word that I'm looking for in simple, non-pressured conversations with family or friends. Scary, that middle-age memory lapse stuff. I can't believe that actors are immune to it as they age. And Alan is about 14 years older than me. Anyone know if any older actors have talked about the difficulty of dealing with an aging memory in terms of the ability to act on stage?
Christine
USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 10:13:02 (PDT)

I am not surprised at the idea that some actors make up humorous anecdotes to haul out for TV appearances and interviews--or their publicists/PAs make them up. But my gut feeling is that AR does not create such stories. I do think that, as part of his carefully constructed public persona, he has a set list of topics, responses, and stories he goes to again and again. I have seen many "variations on a theme" so to speak, in different interviews I have read or seen. For example, how many times did we hear him talk about the joys of playing a character who acts like an eleven-year-old-boy (or sometimes an eight-year-old-boy) when referring to his stint as Elyot? I think he also used language like this during his spate of interviews for GQ.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 09:56:45 (PDT)

Right, Magda, both of those possibilities crossed my mind also. Being the private, shy type myself, I would dread having to give interviews... good thing I'm not remotely famous.

Suzanne, may I add my thanks for your work in providing us with "The Preacher" videogram... I haven't downloaded it yet but I will. And If you wanted to do the same thing with "Play", I can't imagine anyone here objecting! My local PBS station has apparently deemed its viewers unworthy of this, or maybe can't afford it, or are saving it for a later date.
Christine
USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 09:52:06 (PDT)

Following on Magda's comments, I remember reading or hearing that many actors/actresses who appear on talk shows MAKE UP most of the *funny* anecdotes they relate. That shocked the bejebus out of me. Somehow it seems...campy or dishonest. Hate to think AR would do that, no matter what the reason.
Harlii
- Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 09:43:21 (PDT)

This page is my rescue! thanks! I`ve got to do a report for school about AR and I found so many interesting things about him. But I hope you will get ready soon with the photos. Thanks a lot.
Tina <tina.heger@gmx.defoo>
Zirndorf, Bavaria Germany - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 09:34:35 (PDT)

This is a bit of a blatant ad, hope you don't mind, but I've just started my first ever web site and noone's visited it yet! www.geocities.com/ensnaringsnape I'm afraid of all Alan's characters, I seem to have fallen for Snape, so that's the theme. I'm going to add links to other AR things as I go along. Its very much in-progress and its so far pretty small, but I'd love it if one or two people would drop by and give me some encouragement. Pleeeease come vist! Maybe I'll work out how to get myself on a search engine one day! Love your site BTW - its sites like this that inspired me to have a go. I'm going to add a links page, so if you want me to link to you - let me know. Still can't actually believe mine worked tho - call me a techno-phobe!!
EnsnaringSnape
UK - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 09:10:05 (PDT)

Brit--I have been thinking the exact same thing you have. I am really looking forward to sneaking down the aisle and grabbing Sevi (hee hee). o.O heh. *looks at calender* Mmmm...got several months left. POO!! And Suzanne, thank you SO MUCH for loading "The Preacher"! I haven't been able to download it yet because I'm not allowed much net time but I can't wait to see it! :D
ColonelGruber
- Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 09:07:07 (PDT)

I wouldn't rule out the "stockpile of folksy stories" theory, Christine. If you're an actor who hates giving interviews, knows he has to do them because they're in the job description and/or the HP contract publicity clause, yet hates to think of actually revealing personal information, you'd come up with a stockpile of faux intimate anecdotes too. You might even reread some of your old interviews to refresh your memory of how you got through them.

Or the Unreel people (great designation, that) might have read his old interviews during research and fed some lines back to him. Most interviews are edited and not printed verbatim anyway.
Magda
Canada - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 08:56:27 (PDT)

It is much funnier if you replace the "on" with "oh".

Ali-Pat, Queen of the Typos
Ali-Pat
- Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 08:33:49 (PDT)

RE: the nieces in pink lurex story. Can you just imagine those girls, who surely must be in or past adolescence by now, rolling their eyes and saying, "On gawd, not that story again, Uncle Alan!"
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 08:32:41 (PDT)

Oh all right! I'll tell you the slightly embarrassing truth. I didn't go straight to the check-out line. I lingered in the nail polish remover section for a while until I could be sure that the rather cute fellow had moved on. (hee hee) Then I sauntered over to the isle I'd found the HP stuff in. I also found, to my utter mortification (and giggled once more), that I didn't even need to do all the reaching I'd done befor as there was the exact same display to my left about five feet at a much more reasonable height. I searched and searched and unfortunately came up with no Snape Bubble-bath. However, I did find a lovely body wash in the most enchanting Slytherin green! Oh well, I suppose I can pretend that if there was a Snape he would use the stuff often (Hey! It could happen body-wash doesn't require cleaning your hair!). Or better yet I could just pretend that a certain Alan is rather fond of it himself! lol Also, as I was walking toward the check-out lines I passed the toy section and was made even more giddy as I realized that it won't be long until another HP movie is out which will flood the market with many HP toys, which means I can pay my nine year old cousin to come with me so that I can buy all the Snape figurines without too many stares!
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Missouri USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 08:06:11 (PDT)

Sorry, Sally, but I have to disagree with your comment that there is nothing in the Unreel interview that looks like it could be attributed to 1992. The whole bit about his nieces: "We do all those daft things..." is exactly the same as in the 1992 Elle interview, with the exception that then he said "Last time, I told them we'd walk through Hamley's..." and in the Unreel article it's "One time, I told them ..." (italics mine). The 1992 interview ends with him saying "None of my friends would believe me, but I'd let them walk down the road in pink Lurex and gold plastic." In the Unreel article, that exact sentence is followed by the"interviewer" asking him: "Or let them attend a school for witchcraft and wizardry?" (or similar wording), to which he replies "Even that".
So yes, Harlii, you're right. There might even be other "quotes" which were things he said in years past, if anyone else has a good memory. So either this article was cobbled together from a shorter 2001 AR interview along with old quotes, or if Alan has the ability to repeat verbatim stories that he has stockpiled in his head, I don't know.
Christine
USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 07:17:17 (PDT)

Brit--how can you leave us in suspense like this? Is there such a thing as Snape bubblebath?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 06:41:14 (PDT)

Omigosh, Claire! It looks like 1996 was a very good year photo-wise! (Don't know what took me so long to glance at the CPP this month, but it was a lovely addition to breakfie this morning.)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 04:57:12 (PDT)

AHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! *Finishes by picking up her jaw off the floor*

Suzanne, thank you ever, ever, ever so much for recording "The Preacher" for our viewing pleasure!

I am stunned. What a long monolog! It's so indulgant, I love it. The one moment where he takes a breath for self pity and his voice faulters struck me to the heart. If he had gone on to shed tears I would have been shedding them with him! All it would have taken was one more ragged breath.

I confess, that is the first time that I have seen AR do anything remotely serious. God save me if I ever saw him doing Shakespeare.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Suzanne, I'm in your debt.

Just a mention: I scored a copy of January Man at the local 'used things' shop. You are all right, it's rather a waste of his talent. Interesting though to see him pitted up against Klein. The only reason why AR didn't come off as sexier than KKlein is because of his severe haircut. Otherwise, his quote "Don't molest anything!" was shocking. I can't wait to score more AR.
Amanda <avollaro@globix.comfoo>
NYC, NY USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 03:37:50 (PDT)

Alan Rickman is back to London!
Lisa
Bavaria, - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 01:44:04 (PDT)

Harlii - unless that page has been modified since you last looked, there is nothing on the "Unreel" page that looked like it could be attributed to 1992 - Snape does come along a good 9 years later... GML/Elizabeth typed it up in the GB in October 2001. Doesn't look like they have the full interview on that site you pointed us to.

Personally, it strikes me that before HP, you could pretty much rely on the sources of info on AR on the web because most of the AR sites had their own unique themes. But since HR, zillions of teeny boppers have jumped online and all whipped up their own websites dedicated to AR and most of them have basically pilfered/plagerised from the "Big 10" (or however many there are) that have been established long before HP came on the scene. Some have created wallpapers and stuff, but that is the most original thing I have seen on any of the newer sites.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 23:33:19 (PDT)

Is HE still in USA or back in UK???????????
Just Wondering?
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 22:34:52 (PDT)

Thanks Suzanne for putting the time and effort into bringing us "The Preacher".
Thankful AR Fan
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 22:25:01 (PDT)

Hey all. Question. How do we know that the articles we find online that mention AR are legit? I ask because someone at my board posted a link to a website that has posted an article, described as an Alan Rickman on Snape article. After reading it, I said, "I know for a FACT that last quote is from an earlier article that Claire has up at her site." So I went to Claire's place and found the article from Elle, February 1992.

So I came here and did a search and found that an Elizabeth and then GML posted the same article that has this info/Snape article from an *Unreel* Magazine, supposedly recently (2001)...Then A Rickman Admirer said that article sounded like it's info was gleaned from previous interviews. Anyway, I never saw anyone respond to how something like that could happen.

So, is Unreel legit media? And when we do searches online for info on AR, is there any way to verify the info and the source? Here is the link to that site: Unreel Snape Interview And you can do a search of this GB for October 2001 to find the same thing (and more) posted here. It just bothered me that someone who HADN'T read the article at Claire's place, might believe that interview was recent. No way could AR have quoted verbatim from the SAME interview given 9 years earlier!
Harlii
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 22:09:47 (PDT)

Oh boy! I feel that I must impart to you my experience tonight. I went to my local Wal-Mart superstore to pick up some toothpaste. So I'm over in the toothpaste isle when what should catch my up on the very top shelf but Harry Potter toiletries! Well of course I was instantly overcome with curiousity in wondering if there were perhaps any Snape toiletries. So stretching all my five feet and three inches to the max of about another couple of inches and reaching with my arms I could just barely scrape along the edge of the front bottle! I giggled (oddly enough! ;-) upon realizing my situation. Then all of a sudden I heard someone coming. I moved back quickly and pretended to be looking at something next to the HP stuff as a wonderfully handsome man of about 30 rounded the corner. I had a feeling he had seen me reaching! I pleaded silently that he would quickly move on but instead he said: "oh were you trying to get something of the top shelf?" I quickly shook my head, muttered a thanks, and turned tail! I quickly took my toothpaste and headed toward a check-out line. However, a display of DVDs caught my attention before I could stand in line and glanced over them for a moment. I was about to move on when I glanced down at the very bottom shelf, in the shadows and before my mind could process anything my faithful hand had reached out, snatched up and held to me my now recently bought, soon to be viewed, very own copy of the January Man! Yeah! So all wasn't for naught and toothpaste, anyhow!
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Missouri USA - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 20:42:48 (PDT)

I was just wondering if any of our GB Guestbookers will be attending the Peace One Day Celebration at Brixton Academy on Sep 21? Does anyone know if AR will be in attendance or perhaps on the list of celebrity presenters/readers? I see from their website that there will be a live webcast of the program at 8pm UK time tomorrow.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 20:21:20 (PDT)

i loveAR
stella
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 20:00:48 (PDT)

Suzanne, I would just like to add my admiration for your efforts with "THE PREACHER"! I think that everyone here really respect's all that you do for us, here on this GB. I was so glad AR, also, shared some time with you in New York. I do feel that he is aware of all your good work! GML - thanks for the info re HP5!!!! Bye.
Barbara the Aussie <hermione(underscore )3@hotmail.comfoo>
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 18:26:14 (PDT)

Hey, everybody! I got my signed picture from AR just about 4 weeks after I requested it! So don't give up! I've never tried to put a link here before so I don't know if this will work but this is something I'm sure all of you will enjoy for fun. Its a compatability match page. I had lots of fun. I am definately compatible with AR. Althought my huband, will disagree! LOL! http://www.celebmatch.com/birthdayform.php?categoryid=898&celebrity=Alan+Rickman
nanc
ks us - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 18:05:41 (PDT)

Thanks for the information everybody ^_^. It helps a lot. If I can just *find* the movies somewhere now...
ColonelGruber
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 17:15:19 (PDT)

I think Alan Rickman was GREAT in Harry Potter and Roben Hood!
Michelle <Pokelander@comcast.netfoo>
Southfield, Mi U.S.A - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 16:56:34 (PDT)

Colonel Gruber, for additional opinions about those films, take a look a the "Films" portion of the Rickmanista Review.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 15:11:49 (PDT)

Re Harry Potter V, apologies if this has been posted already, from today's Times:

September 20, 2002

J K Rowling and the top secret By Brian MacArthur

MILLIONS of children and their parents can relax. J. K. Rowling was working yesterday on the final stages of the fifth Harry Potter novel. It may even be ready for Christmas. In an exclusive interview with The Times, Rowling said not only that she has not been suffering from writer�s block but also that she is expecting a new baby to join her daughter Jessica next spring. Amidst the �indescribable mess� in her Edinburgh office, there is a �little oasis�, she says, where the manuscript is stacked, �nice, neat, pristine and big� - as big, she thinks, as The Goblet of Fire (636 pages).

The words have been flowing, she says, in spite of the action against her in the United States where she was falsely accused of plagiarism, an accusation comprehensively dismissed by a judge in New York on Tuesday night. The novel, entitled Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, is already readable and she is happy with the result. She is now at the tweaking stage. So can her millions of readers expect a Christmas present? �Possibly�. There is a deep, throaty chuckle.

Some would interpret that warm chuckle as a �Yes�, I suggest. �Maybe�, she murmurs, meanwhile emphasising that the decision when to publish rests with Bloomsbury, her publisher (...)

There's more, but that was the gist of it. Not that what appears in the Times is gospel, but it makes sense: if I was the publisher, I certainly would try to get it in the shops in time for Christmas... *sounds of sickles and knuts* ;)

Hey, I can't wait to read what Snape has to put up with in this one! :D

GML
UK - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 14:53:29 (PDT)

Thanks Claudia, I'll give them a call.
Ellen
New York, NY - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 14:51:54 (PDT)

Ellen, try The Phoenix Learning Group 1-800-221-1274 for The Preacher.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 14:28:52 (PDT)

Suzanne, Thanks a million for the videogram of The Preacher. Is there a website or telephone number for the organization that sells a copy of the videotape? My computer plays the videogram very blurry, and I was hoping to buy a copy of the tape if it is available. Thanks.
Ellen
New York, NY - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 14:08:19 (PDT)

Inger you are right. One of the groups posted that JKR was in an interview and held up the book and said that #5 was complete and had hopes that it would be out by Christmas.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 13:28:04 (PDT)

BTW Zel-Anne, thank's for the link to the postcards! Lovely picture...
Inger
Gothenburg, Sweden - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 13:07:30 (PDT)

A swedish newspaper mentioned that the fifth HP was finished and that the english version could be out by Christmas. I hope it's got it right?
Inger
Gothenburg, Sweden - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 12:48:20 (PDT)

"Blow Dry" (Okay. Great feet. Great hair. What more could I ask?) "Judas Kiss" (No thanks.) "Rasputin" (Excellent. If you like history, you'll like seeing this version of events.) "Mesmer" (One of my favorites. Can't say why on this site. Heh.) "Bob Roberts" (Just shoot me for even trying to watch this.) "Close My Eyes" (Strange, but AR is looking close to perfect.) "Closet Land" (Disturbing. Very. But he looks great and it's a great bit of acting.) "The January Man" (Another waste of celluloid.)
Harlii
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 12:37:00 (PDT)

einmal lachen bevor ich schlafen gehe :) danke Harlii !
verena
bremen, - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 12:20:06 (PDT)

Hello Colonel Gruber (cute name)--You might try scrolling down some on this page to see some of the opinions of most all of the films you asked about. "Bob Roberts" is the all time worse AR flick for me--to much Tim Robbins serenading for my taste. "Close My Eyes" by far has the best AR look. And "Rasputin" was excellent work--The Man won an Emmy and Golden Globe for that one.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 12:13:40 (PDT)

Hello, I hope I'm not bothering anybody by posting in this GB. I am a huge fan of Alan Rickman's but somewhat of a newbie because I just discovered him 3-4 months ago. I've seen about half of his movies but some of the best (so I've heard) ones I haven't seen yet because I have not been able to find them. I was wondering if it wasn't too much trouble if somebody here could give me their opinions and such on "Blow Dry," "Judas Kiss," "Rasputin," "Mesmer," "Bob Roberts," "Close My Eyes," "Closet Land," and "The January Man." I'd really appreciate it. I've heard "Rasputin" is going to be on BBC sometime Sunday evening, don't know if anyone else has heard of this. Also, I think this is the best AR site. I've been to a ton and I think this is one of the most informative, and I like the guestbook option :D. Anyways, I'll be quiet now LOL ^_^. Bai all :).
ColonelGruber
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 12:02:30 (PDT)

Thank You so much Suzanne, first time I`ve seen this (I guess I have to watch it over and over again to completely understand it), as for this is just my second posting(still a bit shy), I just wanted to say that the In Demand video is also on the Texas Greatest Hits DvD.
Kristin <KOBkristinBO@aol.comfoo>
Koblenz, Germany - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 11:18:15 (PDT)

Hip hip horray for Suzanne! Nice work. Now, with the offer of Play, I think your just a glutton for punishment! But bring it on, Girl! (tee hee)

Play is really one that will need to be played over and over. I catch something different each time I watch it. I really can't wait to see Beckett on Film on Sunday. Georgia's PBS affiliate, GPTV, pre-empted for something or other..but I suppose I should be thankful they didn't cancel it altogether. LOL Some people are just never satisfied, are they?

I missed the trivia to, Harlii. Well, maybe our loss is someone else's gain.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 10:34:48 (PDT)

Suzanne, THANK YOU!!! :) That was wonderful. Now I wonder what it would be like with sound (no speakers on the PC).

As for the In Demand Cd on ebay. There must be something up with that Stella-95. She (or he) has been asking ALOT for some items. And has been getting it. I cant beleive she got $75 for a Private Lives (NY) Poster. Unsigned.
Meryl <aanrmem@yahoo.comfoo>
Middle of Nowhere, OH - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 10:34:34 (PDT)

Ta-da! Below is the link to The Preacher Videogram. I did run into a few errors because of its length, but I finally managed to get it working by sacrificing the video quality a bit towards the end of the clip (sorry, but that couldn't be helped). And it's a little on the dark side, but as you probably noticed from Claudia's screen captures, it's supposed to look like that. Either that or their budget ran out before they bought lights. ;-)

Revolutionary Witness: The Preacher (preacher.exe, 10.7MB, 18 mins, 48 secs)

So... shall I try Play (including his brief interview) next?

Suzanne <Suz@mail.usa.comfoo>
TX USA - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 10:02:45 (PDT)

I must have missed the trivia and I love that kind of stuff.

To whomever was looking for the Enhanced In Demand CD...there are a few copies at eBay. If you can't find it anywhere else, that may be your best bet, but the prices are climbing.
Harlii
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 09:32:53 (PDT)

Why do people keep loading up the site with trivia that has NOTHING TO DO with Alan Rickman. This isn't any silly chat room. If you don't have a comment about AR, then don't add to this guest book..
Charlotte
Los Angeles, - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 08:48:50 (PDT)

Check this out:

Hollywood Stock Exchange

Yes, I am now the proud owner of a piece of The Man! ROTFL
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 07:27:19 (PDT)

Juliana--Bummer, that wasn't much of a discount was it? But still--that piece is just so good...I am still glad I took the plunge.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 05:38:21 (PDT)

Wait...there should've been a link...here it is! Hope it comes out right...CoS Postcards!
Zel-Anne <zelanne@yahoo.comfoo>
Philippines - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 05:34:53 (PDT)

Been checking the Harry Potter website again...has anyone seen the latest set of Chamber of Secrets postcards? One of them would be of interest to all contributors of this guestbook (^-^).

Like many of you, I can't WAIT to see the movie!
Zel-Anne <zelanne@yahoo.comfoo>
Philippines - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 05:33:18 (PDT)

The URL for Tower UK is towerrecords.co.uk, and they no longer appear to carry the ECD.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 05:29:55 (PDT)

Reply to Leanne, WI, USA CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME???? I bought my copy of the Texas In Demand single on CD thru Tower Records UK. I think it's Towerrecords.com.uk Delivery was speedy and it only cost about $11 or $12 US dollars. (They do the pounds conversion for you) All you need is a credit card. Let me know if this works for you Leanne. Love 'n Peace, jane
ladyjane
- Friday, September 20, 2002 at 04:41:29 (PDT)

Ah, yes Tami--the great facial expressions in BD! How about that lopsided grin and thumbs-up Phil gives his son? And the "gotcha" look he gives Raymond Roberston after he has thwarted him? And speaking of co-stars, isn't Bill Nighy slated to appear in Love Actually?

Oh, and one more thing I loved about BD--seeing Rosemary Harris again. I had kind of lost track of her, and it was such a pleasure to see her. Someone on this list a while back referred to her character as Shelly's mother--did anyone else catch this? I thought she was just one of her favorite clients.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 04:09:08 (PDT)

I think Blow Dry is my favorite after TMD. I like the music and the characters and it's entertaining. Phil seems so sweet to me, even though he's held a grudge for 10 years. AR has some great expressions and some adorable smiles :-) My only complaint is that he doesn't have more screen time, especially since he's so central to the story. Critics hated it, but I find it utterly charming. -Tami
Tami
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 22:14:10 (PDT)

Kathy, that is pretty much how I feel about QDU and BD also (sorry, Harlii!). Although there are some fine Marston scenes, especially when he gets thrown out of his own house, I feel that in this role, AR is simply vamping for the Sheriff (which I think was his next film after this one). I enjoyed QDU as a western, but it is one of my least favorite AR roles.

Nowwwwww, BD is another matter! I love this film because of all the loopy characters in it. I love films that have so much texture that you have to watch them over and over to get everything, and this one certainly qualifies! AR's character is a little subdued in this one, but he kind of has to be with all the goofiness that is going on around him. Still, scenes like the one where he is sitting alone in his shop, in drunken haze, beating out the time to the song on the radio with a comb and a scissors--pure gold. And when I saw him glide out onto the floor with Sandra for the "Total Look" competition, I thought I had died and gone to AR heaven.

Oh dear. I think I need to watch that again RIGHT NOW.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 18:42:27 (PDT)

Leanne (and all others interested), I have the CD and since it is an OOP (I think, or at least extremely hard to find) I'm willing to make a copy of it. All I ask is for you to cover the cost of the blank cd and shipping to where ever you are. Please dont send me first borns. I've been offered them and already have one myself. I dont need another. :)
Meryl <aanrmem@yahoo.comfoo>
Middle of Nowhere, OH - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 18:08:26 (PDT)

I suppose I ought to have summarized, but in my glee at actually doing a link I forgot to mention: JKR has won her suit and the other party has been found to have committed fraud upon the court and has to pay sanctions along with JKR and Schoolastic's court costs and expenses. Now maybe she can focus on finishing the fifth book.
Cindie
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 17:52:05 (PDT)

I just received my video of "The Preacher" and it is wonderful. He is in such fine form. What a wonderful performance! I ordered the film Monday afternoon and recieved it today. The video is from an educational service and the discount is 10 dollars, which barely covers the shipping. AR is gorgeous and looks divine.
Juliana
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 17:23:30 (PDT)

Anyone know where I can get a hold of some movie stills from Dark Harbor? I've been searching everywhere. o_O
Lauren <stalkingsnape@hotmail.comfoo>
Edmonton, Canada - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 17:21:49 (PDT)

CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME????

Hi everyone. I am in need of help. I have been trying to get the "In Demand" enhanced CD with the video for 1-1/2 years now and don't know where I else I can turn! I have tried Amazon, CDNow,Dufflebag,etc. Has anyone had any luck recently in purchasing this, or does anyone have one I could purchase? Or, does someone have a video tape copy of it I could purchase? (can you tell I am getting desperate?). I LOVE this video and would really like to buy it somehow. I would appreciate any help or info you could give me. Thanks again. I truly enjoy this site!
Leanne
WI USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 17:15:14 (PDT)

Here goes, hopefully this will be the link for the court case in which JKR has been involved.
Article
Cindie
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 16:20:26 (PDT)

Regarding Harlii's questions about Marston from QDU and Phil from BD- Quigly is not one of my fav AR movies. As bad guys go, Marston is typical Hollywood bad guy sterotype. Seeing that Quigly and the girl are played even worse, that makes Marston the most interesting character in a woefully boring movie. Now Phil in Blow Dry is one of my favorite Rickman parts. I don't think Shelly left him because in some way he could not satisfy her, I think she left him because she finally accepted her own sexual preference. It's the scene outside the guest house when he says"You could have at least left me for another bloke" and she says "there never was no other bloke". It wasn't anything that Phil did or didn't do-it was Shelly having the courage to say this is who I am and who I want to make my life with. The thing in the film I always found most interesting was that Shelley gave up custody of her son to Phil and in the 10 years since they divorced, he never found another woman. Phil doesn;t truly understand Shelley, but he will always be in love with her.
Kathy
Lewiston, Me - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 15:55:12 (PDT)

We've had very in-depth discussions of certain of AR's characters...but I don't recall seeing too much *in-depth* discussions about other characters here. I may have missed them (knowing me).

Is there any depth to say, Elliott Marston in Quigley? Or Phil in Blow Dry? What do you think about those characters? Or does it help to really, really enjoy the movies before you can really discuss/analyze those characters fairly & adequately?

I, for one, really enjoyed QDU. I love westerns. On the other hand, BD isn't one of my favorites. I kept thinking in the back of my mind that maybe, just maybe, *Phil* didn't satisfy his wife on some level and THAT'S why she left him...for.someone.else. Did these characters interest you at all?
Harlii
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 15:21:16 (PDT)

Hi I�ve visited this site for about 10 times in the last 5 years, and it seems that all the time the pic- , sounds- and videopages are temporarily unavalable. What a pity! When are they avalable????
Little Lioness
Netherlands - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 10:55:41 (PDT)

I second that Lin. This is a great site.
Rose <GardenerPro@hotmail.comfoo>
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 09:38:34 (PDT)

Suzanne, you're a sweetie!! Can't let that hard work go unacknowledged. Thanks.
Lin
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 08:40:25 (PDT)

If anyone is interested in the script to "Play," it can be found by clicking on this link:

Play Script
Kimberly
- Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 07:51:41 (PDT)

"Beckett on Film" has its own web site, and the "Play" page links to an interview with Mr. Rickman which ends with this lovely quote:

However good you are as an actor, you're never as good as the play. Actors are poor souls. We can only throw ourselves against the wall. Hope to stick a bit.

Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 07:16:03 (PDT)

Thank you, Jen, for the great screen captures!

The Preacher Videogram progress report: okay, I recorded the entire sound file, edited it and it's ready to go, and I've captured the video onto my computer. Next step will be to merge the two into one file, hopefully without encountering any errors. If I do, I'll play with it until I can come up with a version that works. But if everything goes well, I should have it ready for you by tomorrow.

And welcome to all the newcomers!

Suzanne <Suz@mail.usa.comfoo>
TX USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 06:33:49 (PDT)

Thanks for the screen caps, Jen.

My my...The Man is even gorgeous caked in mud and regularly belching/hiccuping. (tee hee) Is there nothing this man can do to discourage my loyalty to him????
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 03:51:27 (PDT)

A Big hello to Terri Allix from Brisbane! Welcome to this GB. I just wanted to say that I say last night, Bob Roberts, which is coming soon to Encore (Pay TV). Will let everyone know here what times it will be coming on - Maybe next month? "I must go and Pray"! I agree with AR!! Jody fro CA, I must admit that seeing Jason Isaacs is something else. A worthy match for PRof. Snape?!!! Let the games begin! Bye.
Barbara the Aussie <hermione(underscore )3@hotmail.comfoo>
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 23:20:55 (PDT)

Hi there! Jen- I'm so sorry! I was checking in every now and then and Lindsay was mentioned and I couldn't help myself! Thanks for all your support. Lily- Your assumption was correct! I am Greek (Cypriot actually) but, much to my shame, I don't speak it. I'm so sorry but I don't know what you said! Can you translate for me? Thanks all! Eleni
Eleni
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 22:24:14 (PDT)

Eleni! You beat me to it! (But I'm glad. *GRIN*) If anyone hasn't gone to take a look at Eleni's site, try to take at least a moment to do so--it's a lovely tribute to a phenomenal actress!

I spent part of this evening making screen captures, and I put several nice ones from "Play" (including a few from the interview with AR that preceded it) up on my site. If you'd like to have a look, they're here:

"Play" Screen Captures
Jen
MD USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 22:17:18 (PDT)

you most proberly hear this all the time, but you are my all time favourite actor. i'm even doing my assignment on you. i've got to go, saying luv ya is too tacky bye
terri allix <hairypurplemonster13@hotmail.comfoo>
brisbane, qld australia - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 21:04:20 (PDT)

Magda (Hu) - I am suprised that you had that response from AR's agent. By the sounds of the email chatlists, AR replied to zillions of people's letters sent to the theatre while he was in NY. It sounds like he hasn't been responding to stuff sent to his UK address while he was in NY doing PL, but his agent sent letters telling everyone that he had been away. Of course, it would probably be easier to send something again in the UK now that he will be returning there... He doesn't usually reply personally (by the sounds of it) - just sends a signed dedicated photo (a bit valueless on eBay unless its the one of him in the early 90s with his black coat on)

Anyway. It sounds like some people get lucky first time, others have to send several letters as he gads around the world, but I wouldn't give up! I know I can't speak for him, but its just that from the email chatlists, I wouldn't give up!

By the way, has ANYONE ever got a response out of his US agents address? I have yet to hear of a any successful contact made by sending anything to that address. I fear many Americans send there, and never hear anything and thus assume he doesn't reply...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 20:41:31 (PDT)

Does anybody in NY or UK know if AR has gone back to Europe yet? Just wondering if he has left us yet. Thanks
Terry
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 20:21:57 (PDT)

Thanks Ali-Pat, I really appreciate you posting LD address. :o)
Linda
NJ USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 19:26:31 (PDT)

Eleni,

As you've probably noticed, this is a multilingual group. I'm making some assumptions based on your name, so I hope the following makes sense to you. Oh, and to make things even more challenging, I don't have Greek characters downloaded on my computer but I thought I'd try my hand at phonetics: Synchariteria, Eleni! Bravo dia tin techne kai tou ergo pou etimases. Poli oureya kai efharisto.
Lily
Chicago, IL - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 18:09:07 (PDT)

Thank you so much for all of your nice comments! I'm so glad you like my site! It's so nice to share it with people who actually know what I'm talking about. If you have anything you want me to add to the site or anything just tell me. My e-mail address is VassarSpdrWmn@aol.com I hope you don't mind my popping by to post every now and then. Thanks again! Eleni
Eleni <VassarSpdrWmn@aol.comfoo>
NJ USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 17:08:19 (PDT)

Right. According to The V.I.P. Address Book, you can send mail to Lindsay Duncan via her agent at this address:

Lindsay Duncan

c/o Ken McReddie

91 Regent St.

London, W1R 7TB, England

Never underestimate the power of your local public library.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 16:28:09 (PDT)

Thats supposed to be "telling", Sorry
Linda
NJ - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 16:06:32 (PDT)

HI, Its me again, got to Eleni's site. It is wonderful, thanks for tellin us about it.
Linda
NJ USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 16:05:49 (PDT)

Hi,

Ali-Pat- did you say that you have Lindsay Duncans agents address? If so could you post it. I would like to send her a letter. I thought she was wonderful as Amanda.

Having a bit of trouble, cant seem to get to Eleni's site. If anyone can help, please do. Thanks
Linda
NJ USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 16:01:11 (PDT)

Hey, Ali-Pat--I'm a bit behind on my GB reading, and so I only just now saw your post from Sept. 12, about TMD and the "halos" of people we carry around, and how on Sept. 11 the halos of those who've gone came out to remember them. It was really touching and brought some tears to my eyes (last week was a difficult one), and I just wanted to say thanks. Yours was a lovely insight into a great movie, and also a moving thought for real life.

--Gwenn
Gwenn
NYC, USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 15:40:01 (PDT)

i love AR .hes absoluely fab
grace
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 14:59:15 (PDT)

I was about to say, "Well, get them personalized, no one will buy them like that." But then I realized I've seen people post personalized ARtographs up there. I was in shock. I'd never part with my, "To Lori: Marry me when you come to England" Valmont photo.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 14:08:32 (PDT)

Do I win the prize for longest sentence in the guestbook?
a concerned citizen
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 13:51:25 (PDT)

Although I know it is disappointing not to have a reply from Mr. Rickman, he must feel an understandable resentment to see photos that he has personally autographed end up on ebay, being sold for personal profit by unscrupulous persons who take advantage of a fan's admiration. It was just a matter of time before these incidences ruined it for all of us. Also, perhaps Ms. Parker cannot find her desk anymore because of the mountain of requests for autographs, letters of admiration, small tokens of admiration, love letters, personal artwork yada yada yada. Liberace may thing that "two much of a good thing is wonderful", but surely it must be overwhelming for an individual person to handle.....I read somewhere that grumpiness is the body's way of saying "back off, I need some space to recuperate. Perhaps in six months you will have more luck..
a concerned citizen
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 13:47:24 (PDT)

@Verena: Google.de machts m�glich *ggg*: http://www.kabel1.de/home/
Lisa
Bavaria, - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 12:29:35 (PDT)

@Verena: �hhh... kann auch sein... *sch�m* Ich hab mich beim W�schezusammenlegen dahin gezappt... ich schau mal durchs Netz, vielleicht finde ich da was... Servus!
Lisa
Bavaria, - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 12:26:55 (PDT)

whoops, sorry, two typos. "Well done" and "sung". It's been a LONG day! and it's only 2:15!!!
JC again
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 12:15:57 (PDT)

Eleni, great page! I thought it was awesome!!! I also love the title and the many quotes throughout. We done!!!

On a note to other folks, I got a copy of "The Noel Coward Songbook" yesterday sun by Ian Bostridge with Sophie Daneman and I think it's a great CD!!! "Someday I'll Find You" is the only song from "Private Lives" (however I am still desperately in search for the theme music!), but if you're a Coward fan, it's a great investment!
Jayne Claire
AL - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 12:14:22 (PDT)

Lisa aus Bayern: Lief der Film nicht auf Kabel 1? Ich wei� nicht,wo Kabel 1 seinen Sitz hat.. du vielleicht?
verena
bremen, - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 10:29:39 (PDT)

Another symptom of Rickmanitis--when can't access the Guestbook because your cable modem goes down and you sit staring at your blank computer screen murmuring "what do you MEAN 'unable to access?'" until the repairman gets there. Or is this a whole new subclassification?

Elini--BRILLIANT SITE! Thank you for performing this service to the world. Nicely laid out and lots of good info. BTW, Did anybody ever get the address to Lindsay's agent? I keep forgetting to look it up, but I will if prodded.

Venida, about CL, I still think they are in her dream corridor, but I love the way you question who the prisoner is now.

Additional note about "blogs". Think in terms of "web log" instead of "we blog"

And finally.....to all those who want to know how the short story Murder, Obliquely ends, I still encourage you to read it--read everything you can get your hands on by Cornell Woolrich, in fact. If you cannot locate this story, email me and we will work something out (but I have an over-active spam blocker so I might not get your message). HOWEVER, I post the ending here because I am really very kind at heart and do not enjoy torturing people.

READ NO FURTHER UNLESS YOU WANT THE SHORT STORY MURDER, OBLIQUELY SPOILED FOR YOU.

The big difference in the short story is that Annie flat out refuses Dwight's proposal of marriage. She is still in love with him, but she has forced herself to get over it--I think she is so creeped out by that evening alone with him at his house that she shuts out her heart listens to her intellect. However, as she tells herself in the book, "They tell you wrong when they tell you infatuation dies a sudden death. Infatuation dies a lingering, painful death." She and Dwight continue to see each other at parties and begin dating, but in the end Annie goes to Dwight's house to break it off. It is also implied that Dwight pays off the private investigator hired by Bernette's ex-husband and he (the PI) ends up implicating the ex-husband.

Sorry to be so long winded, but I feel like I have been holding my breath for 12 hours!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 10:19:02 (PDT)

Just scrolling through: Closet Land is a difficult movie to watch, yes, but creatively exciting, because nothing seen on the surface is as it seems; remember, this is the underbelly of human relationships. Is it torture, or is it pleasure going on here? Hate being a spoiler--but this film is not just empty-headed entertainment. When the woman goes down the hall way with AR's character in tow, I can't help thinking "Whose the prisoner, now? What happens, next?" Oh, to be a fly on that wall!
Venida <kiddiecar@hotmail.comfoo>
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 08:32:21 (PDT)

Thank you Georgiana and Claudia! And, yes the title does say it all doesn't it? I couldn't have called the site anything but that. In addition to being one of my favorite lines from the play, I think it describes Lindsay (and Mr. Rickman) perfectly! Thanks again! Eleni
Eleni
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 08:16:56 (PDT)

Eleni, Ms. Duncan indicated that she had new employment following the close of "Private Lives" at the Royal Court event on 9 September, and the item posted here appeared in "Variety" last Thursday; I posted both items to the News page as they became available.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 06:14:48 (PDT)

Hi Verena, schreib doch mal an RTL II, welche Version die hatten. Ich glaub, RTL II hat seinen Sitz in M�nchen oder Unterf�hring bei M�nchen. Schau mal unter www.t-online.de ins Telefonbuch. Und bitte: Berichte mir vom Ergebnis... mir ist das n�mlich auch aufgefallen *ggg* Servus, Lisa.
Lisa
Bavaria, - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 06:14:15 (PDT)

Guten Morgen die Damen,

On Monday,I watched S&S on TV and I have the opinion (my mother too) there were more scenes to see than on the DVD. Does anybody have the film on Video,taped from TV? Maybe someone has or had the same opinion...??!
verena
Bremen, - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 04:47:47 (PDT)

Hi, you all, and CLAUDIA (GA US) asked in 11. Sept. "unpolite". 1)you will not believe it: I saw accedentally the PL in London, accedentally on the Boxing Day - because of my own language is not the English, I use to see only musicals when I was in London. you all can hung me! I looked Harry Potter only because of Richard Harris... (then I realized that I know AR very well from his films, and he was always marvellous) But, of course, I like AR very much. From Budapest I wrote a few line for him, sending a nice postcard, which he never answered it (since dec.2001.) 2)second time I wrote in March 2002. for his agent, sending a replycoupon, and she answered very "pickirt" (=flegma, unpolite, etc) that AR become so Great Star that he and his agent has no more time to write and no more time to send photo for his fans! and sent me BACK the coupon for that I would give it a children-aid fundation!! 3) if I have a secretary like this one, I could dropp her down suddenly. 4)Dear MAGDAS! This is a tipically Hungarian (flamand?) name. I'm surprice. HOW MANY MAGDA ARE HERE? 5) But the biggest trouble is that: Richard Harris is so ill (pneumonia), that he is (and will) in hospital, and his agent doesn't see the future... By M.
Magda (Hu) <clan.cameron@freemail.hufoo>
Hungary, - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 04:32:04 (PDT)

Eleni--Your site is very impressive. The title of the page says it all doesn't it? Thanks.

Ali-Pat--you have been very successful in piquing curiousity. Thanks for adding to my already arms length reading list. ;-)
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 01:42:18 (PDT)

So sorry that's Jen of AR Forum fame. So sorry, Jen! Typing fast is bad for me ;o) Eleni
Eleni
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 22:11:41 (PDT)

Hi there. My name is Eleni and I hope I'm not bothering anybody by posting. I'm a HUGE Alan Rickman fan and perhaps an even bigger Lindsay Duncan fan. I was just wondering where Kathy heard about the "Under the Tuscan Sun" movie, I'm so excited about that! Jan of the AR Forum fame told me she might send you guys a link to my page about Lindsay but I got so siked when I saw the post about her film that I figured I'd add a post and save her the trouble. If any of you would care to check it out it's http://vassarspdrwmn.tripod.com/jaggedwithsophistication. Thanks for reading my post! I'd be honored if any of you would look at the site and/or tell me what you think! Thanks again! Eleni
Eleni <VassarSpdrWmn@aol.comfoo>
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 22:10:18 (PDT)

Ali-Pat: Thanks for the wonderful quotes from the original MO. I currently have such a massive amount of reading to do that I do not have time to search for and read this short story. However, you have piqued my curiosity by saying that the ending is much different than the one we have seen on the screen. I know you do not want to spoil it for everyone, but would it be possible to announce in big capital letters that spoilers will follow and then briefly describe what makes that ending so different? If not, I understand completely. You can't blame a girl for trying though! :)
Elizabeth
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 19:40:54 (PDT)

Ali-Pat and Claudia, thank you for your comments on the Murder, Obliquely question. Ali-Pat, the quotes from the book were perfect for AR. The casting was certainly well done. I love that show. Also, thank you for the "we blog" explanation. I appreciate it.
Juliana
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 18:33:20 (PDT)

Soundtrack of "Help I'm a Fish" available at amazon.co.uk for 10.99BP. Track 14 reads "Intelligence-Alan Rickman." Oh Gill-I think this is the rare instance in which I don't hope for your condition to get better. I esp. agree w/ you on the symptom of "salivating."
jody
CA USA - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 18:30:29 (PDT)

Juliana and all, my final verdict on MO--POSSIBLE SPOILERS

The end of the short story is significantly different from what ended up on screen, but not so different that there is a hint of suspicion of Annie. But it is very, very different. I will allow you all the pleasure of reading the story for yourselves.

However, I must share some Cornell Woolrich with you--hope you enjoy this as much as I do. Here are the words Annie uses in the short story to describe Dwight when she first meets him:
"He was tall and he was thirty-five; brown eyes and lightish hair, blond when he was still a boy. He was like--how shall I say? ...What's the good of trying to describe him? He was--well, how was that man that you didn't quite get over to in time?"

Later, she observes:
"He looked well sitting; not too far forward, not too far back. Not too straight, not too sunken. Couldn't he do anything wrong? He should do something wrong. This wasn't good for me."

And finally, after she leaves the Dwight's house:
"He closed the door and we could hear his step going away down the corridor inside. He had a fine, firm, crisp tread; clean-cut, without any slurring. He even walked right."

Ohhhhh yeah.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 18:27:44 (PDT)

Juliana, "blog" is slang for "weblog". What's a weblog? It is a collection of articles and links on one topic or another that the collector finds of interest. The list is likely to change frequently.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 18:09:26 (PDT)

Question for UK fans..what does 'blog' mean? The Leaky Cauldron site has lots of HP information, and they state they 'blog for Harry' thanks for the help.
Juliana
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 17:58:14 (PDT)

For all the Lindsey Duncan fans here-she has been signed to a new film--------* Lindsay Duncan will join Diane Lane and Sandra Oh in the Disney romantic comedy UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN, based on Frances Mayes' bestseller, for writer/director Audrey Wells.------Good for Lindsey!!Hope this film gives her lots of exposure. A romantic comedy-wonder who the romance will be with?
Kathy
Lewiston, Me - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 16:57:58 (PDT)

Hello there, could anybody tell me whether AR is still in N.Y.? Thanks a lot.
Terry
Boston, U.S.A. - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 14:35:33 (PDT)

She claims her house was destroyed in a snowstorm?!? Where on earth did this woman live? Did she live in a cardboard shack?
Christine
USA - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 14:29:52 (PDT)

The Nancy Stouffer case has been heavily (and one-sidedly) discussed on a number of HP websites but it does seem like she's made a number of claims that haven't panned out. She claimed she expected to generate $1 billion in revenue from book sales, yet there seem to be few copies of her books in existence. She claimed that her house was destroyed in a snowstorm and thus she has no documentary evidence about her book sales. Her lawyer quit on her. Also it's interesting that she's not suing for plagiarism but rather copyright infringement over the word "muggle". Anyone wanting more info should go to google.com and search under Stouffer's name. Plenty of sites.

I doubt that Rowling needs to lose sleep over all this. As we've seen from earlier posts today about name searches, there are lots of coincidences in the card catelogues of libraries.
Magda
Canada - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 12:55:47 (PDT)

Anne/Manhattan: Thanks. I found several sites last night talking about the initial lawsuit, but couldn't find any follow up to it. However, after re-reading those articles, I can't understand how anyone could refuse to see the similarities between the two...the words, Nimbus, muggle, Keeper of...and so on...I'd really get a bad taste in my mouth about the HP books if I find out that because the HP books and J.K. have been made household names, that her camp has strong-armed this woman into keeping quiet. I wonder if the actors in the movie know about this or if they even care? I wonder what AR would say.
Harlii
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 11:21:00 (PDT)

Well I'm one who found the News sight and the (old) news that "The Search for John Gissing" was playing in Toronto this summer at a Festival. I would have made the journey! Did anyone see this film?
Rose <GardenerPro@hotmail.comfoo>
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 11:03:07 (PDT)

VCR ALERT - To all Uk GBers, Rasputin is on BBC2 this sunday (22nd) late at night and through till monday morning. Don't forget to press the record button :-)
Jizel
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 10:24:05 (PDT)

Rose! Come out from behind that shrub! We need you here, girl!
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 07:59:01 (PDT)

Rose, please don't go away! I was just having a bit of fun with your post.....I didn't mean to bruise anyone's feelings, most certainly!

The more Rickmaniacs on this site, the more fun we can have. I, for one, will try to be better in the future and not have fun at anyone's expense.

Please forgive me; any slight was quite unintentional. Now, off to see my doctor.......
Mesmer's Patient
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 07:49:05 (PDT)

Thank you Claudia for the kind word....did I step on anyone's toes?? Didn't think I was. An honest mistake about "Georgiana's site" which ISN'T Georgiana's site,I do know this now! It's just that Georgiana seems to be the only person who posts. Ok, I'm going back to hide in the garden again.
Rose <GardenerPro@hotmail.comfoo>
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 07:26:56 (PDT)

Fausta, The HB Studio (Herbert Berghof Studio) is a very famous acting school in Manhattan (Greenwich Village). They have a website: "hbstudio.org". I thought someone wrote in the GB that she had asked Alan whether he was doing the Virginial Woolf reading at the HB Studio, and he said "no". Too bad, I think Alan would have been a great George.
Ellen
New York, NY - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 07:05:29 (PDT)

Hello! I'm a 15 year old girl from germany an I am a fan of Alan Rickman. I saw him in "Robin Hood" first time and I was faszinated. He is a great actor! I saw him in other movies, too (for example Harry Potter). This page is very good und funny. the layout is great. finally I want to say "hello" to all alan rickman fans! bye, beccy
Rebecca <star.reb@gmx.defoo>
Hagen, Germany - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 06:45:03 (PDT)

Re:

"Another possible pairing would be Christine Lahti and Alan Rickman, who will play George and Martha in a reading at the HB Studios this fall."

What/where is the HB Studios?

Thank you,
Fausta <faustaw@yahoo.comfoo>
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 06:31:37 (PDT)

Thanks KMesmer's Patient. But I think the AR fans have it going in the news department too. What little AR news involving "Love Actually" there is has been reported pretty timely.

Gosh, Firth is right "purty" isn't he? LOL
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 05:24:28 (PDT)

Click on this link to access a web page devoted to the film "Love Actually":

Love Actually

Colin Firth fans have it goin' on in the news dept.!
Mesmer's Patient
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 04:50:11 (PDT)

POSSIBLE SPOILERS FOR MURDER OBLIQUELY

Juliana, about an alternate ending for MO... Having watched it last night with an eye toward implicating Annie, I remain unconvinced. The screenplay does a pretty good job of hammering out the clues in the direction of Dwight. However, and this is why this theory intrigues me, I have read enough Cornell Woolrich to know that this turn of the plot is a real possibility. I will re-read the short story today and see how your theory holds up against that. I vaguely remember some significant differences between the page and the screen.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 04:10:45 (PDT)

Gill--you have withdrawals? ;-)

I shall give your prescription a try. Although a Die Hard fan, I'm not. Maybe I will substitute with Rasputin, an extra dose of Truly Madly Deeply (my fav), and then throw in Robin Hood POT for good measure.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 03:43:45 (PDT)

I forgot to mention Dogma as one of my regular infusions... maybe amnesia is another symptom
Gill Ranson <gillmr@dialstart.netfoo>
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 03:10:52 (PDT)

I have no query, I simply wanted to express my relief at discovering others living with Rickmanitis. My symptoms were very insidious, starting in my early 20s. Now, at the age of 30, my symptoms are well-established and utterly incurable. Management of the symptoms (rapid pulse, dry mouth, flushing, incoherence, salivating, spontaneous utterances, obsessional behaviour) can be difficult but mine are subdued by regular infusions of Sense & Sensibility, Truly Madly Deeply, Blow Dry, Die Hard. The visual and auditory stimuli usually evoke a powerful manifestation of symptoms before they subside to a quiet level until withdrawal sets in. I wish to stand before you all now and admit - I am an AR addict.
Gill Ranson <gillmr@dialstart.netfoo>
Harrogate, England - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 03:09:09 (PDT)

Thanks Anne/Manhattan. Hmmm, the likenesses in the books are uncanny.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 01:28:46 (PDT)

Harlii - An American named Nancy Stouffer published some children's books in the '80s, well before J.K. Rowling first published. She had a character named "Larry Potter" who, I think, wore round glasses (Stouffer also illustrated), and there were other similarities of language including the use of the word "muggle." The books were out of print for years but were reissued in 2001 and are available on Amazon. I've not read them.

This was in the news around the time Goblet of Fire came out but it quickly dropped out of the headlines and I have no idea how the litigation's going. Here are a couple of links to news stories from last spring: BBC; GMA.
Anne/Manhattan
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 22:26:01 (PDT)

Mesmer's patient--thanks for the huuuuuuge giggle! :o)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 18:32:39 (PDT)

Julia and Ali-Pat: Don't forget this classic Hollywood film which may have inspired J.K.:

Film Link
Mesmer's Patient
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 17:41:46 (PDT)

Stellla - give the man a chance to actually BE in the film! Usually the promotions don't begin until the film is about to be released, so I think you are looking at least 6-9 months down the road before there would be any actor promoting the film...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 16:55:08 (PDT)

...And going farther afield, I find 8 books by that eminent Egyptologist, S. R. Snape.

(It's a slow night at work, can't you tell?)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 16:26:45 (PDT)

i was just wondering if anyone knows if alan is gonna b on any talk shows to promote love actually
stella
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 16:14:16 (PDT)

Ohhhhhh--My turn! My turn! I like this game!

In our library's database I find these children's books by Juliet Snape:
The Boy With Square Eyes
I'm Not Frightened of Ghosts
Magical Mazes

Wonder where she did her research?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 16:14:11 (PDT)

Harlii-I remember hearing something about that in those days leading up to the movie's release but never heard another word. Along with being a royal addict (I'm wild about Harry) I am a news addict as well and I would have thought it would have been news worthy. Don't you? CNN is where I heard about it in the first place.
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 16:12:38 (PDT)

I don't know if anyone remembers this, but an author (can't remember if she was American or British) sued/was suing/is suing J.K. Rowling for copyright infringement or something. This author has a children's book series that was published several years before HP and she used the word *muggle* and some other names that J.K. has used in the HP series. Since this author's books were written and published first, she claimed the rights to those words...I never did hear how it panned out. Does anyone remember this?
Harlii
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 15:57:33 (PDT)

Uh, yeah, can I get the ordering info on that book about "Inflimation of muscle" yadda yadda by William J Snape? Is that the cure for the tendonitis in my shoulder?
JC
AL - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 15:09:26 (PDT)

Ha! Remus Lupin's predecessor: Ars�ne Lupin, gentleman de la nuit. Hahahaha!
Julia
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 14:50:21 (PDT)

Well, no Severus Snape, BUT the following came up:

The Cavendish guide to mooting, by John Snape. Biodiversity and the law by William J. Snape III Structures and machines by George Snape Roman brooches from North Britain: a classification and a catalogue of brooches from sites on teh Stangat by Margaret E Snape Effects of immune cells and inflammation on smooth muscle and enteric nerves by William J. Snape and the always intriguing English monastic finances in the later Middle Ages by Robert Hugh Snape.
Julia
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 14:45:31 (PDT)

So I was searching the University of Calgary's Library catalogue when I came across this intriguing title: Handbook of the engineering sciences, by Potter, James Harry. Published in 1967, this multi-volume work is currently in progress (meaning they are processing it, putting labels on it, etc, etc.). Perhaps they have something by Prof. Snape? :)
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 14:37:53 (PDT)

The new Trailer is great.For the german Fans:Heute morgen gab es den Trailer auch im SAM Magazin zusehen.Ist nat�rlich wesentlich besser als auf dem Computer.Ich kann es kaum noch erwarten.....!
Anja <markmannthies@onlinehome.defoo>
Germany - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 12:37:19 (PDT)

Rose and Georgiana: I was just teasing! ;-) I thought Rose was referring to the "News" page, but, hey, you just never know! There seems to be a new page a day devoted to either AR or one of his characters, esp. "Professor Snape."

But, of course, we all know Suzanne's site is the cream of the crop. :-)
Mesmer's Patient
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 11:30:05 (PDT)

Jayne Claire--you are correct about this being a two-part Stage on Screen installment. Next week they will feature the entire length of Waiting for Godot. However, according to the SoS website, they will rerun both features beginning on January 1, 2003. Also, many PBS stations will rerun prime time shows on at a later date and time to fill in their schedules, so it could be playing somewhere else this week.

It occurs to me that tapes of this special might be for sale in the near future--other SoS programs have been. It might be a more affordable alternative to buying the whole Beckett DVD set, although you don't get to see enough of the wonderful John Hurt in "Krapp's Last Tape". And of course, you can always videotape it for free!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 11:25:19 (PDT)

Thanks from me to, Mindy...and congrats on getting The Man to hesitate at the stage door.

Rose chin up, anyone could have made the same mistake. Georgiana is soooo good at seeking out the news on The Man and sharing it with us, it does seem a bit like its her page.
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 09:58:11 (PDT)

Mindy, thank you for that information. I'm glad he said it was tough going.
Vera
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 09:23:14 (PDT)

I'll second that--it is NOT my private page. However, many of us felt that a page devoted to actual Rickman News would be of interest, and a number of us try to pull newsworthy items and place them there, for those not inclined to wade through the (sometimes totally irrelevant) chatter. It has been referenced at the top of this page for months.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 09:05:13 (PDT)

In response to Mindy in Connecticut:

I asked Rickman about the humor in "Closet Land" when we met him after a performance of "Tango at the End of Winter" in 1991. His reply was:

"Humor in CLOSET LAND? There WAS no humor in CLOSET LAND."
Keyser <keyserfankf@netscape.netfoo>
USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 08:57:58 (PDT)

If Rose is referring to the news page linked at the top of this guest book, it is neither Georgiana's page nor private; It's a part of Suzanne's wonderful site, though Georgiana seems to be the major contributor and I visit it often. Thank you Georgiana and everyone!
Becky
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 07:58:09 (PDT)

Don't know if this has been reported or not. But the Marco Island Film Fest will be featuring "Help! I'm a Fish". The festival runs October 18-27, 2002. Marco Island is located in southwest Florida near Naples. The website is

Marco Island Film Fest

Funny, HIAF has been out on video in Europe for a long time now.

Nope...no "The Search for John Gissing", I'm afraid. It would be worth the drive for that!
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 07:33:28 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, I did catch the Stage on Screne last night. It was AMAZING! I really enjoyed it. A great way to recoup from seven hours of studying. Play was amazing and Ohio Impromptu really took me away with it. Maybe one day I'll be able to afford it.

Wait! It's showing again?! The end of it last night sort of implied a "Part 2", not a replay.
Jayne Claire
AL - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 07:30:57 (PDT)

Georgiana, do you have a private AR page that you've been hiding from us? How does one access it? :-)
Mesmer's Patient
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 07:27:24 (PDT)

Wow! I just found Georgianna's private page which is full of information....news and tidbits!
Rose <GardenerPro@hotmail.comfoo>
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 07:14:49 (PDT)

God ! Another victim of colonel Brandon's charm. Welcome to the club Marie !
Marialis
France - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 06:20:28 (PDT)

Murder Obliquely--I don't think Dern's character was a culprit but I do think she knew in her heart of hearts that Dwight was responsible for the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend. The only mystery for me is whether Annie betrayed her head and accepted the affections of a man that she clearly was attracted to (and who wouldn't be ;-)). Or did she leave her heart completely out and refused to allow Dwight to use her. But who would mind being used by someone like Dwight??? LOL

No, Mazzie...Claudia, GA doesn't just like wine....she LOVES it! LOL
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 05:49:16 (PDT)

Juliana--what an interesting idea! I don't know... Guess it's time to watch MO again. If that's true, then the film is chock full of red herrings.

On another topic, did anyone see Stage on Screen last night on PBS? It used snippets from the documentary on the DVD, but it was different. I have to say, being a newbie to Beckett, that I found it informative and enjoyable. And they included, in full, three of my favorite plays from the series: Play, Come and Go, and Ohio Impromptu. Catch the repeat if you missed it the first time!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 05:17:53 (PDT)

Hi girls! Thanks for your welcome! I'm a new fan, and, to answer to Marialis, I'll tell you how I discovered AR. I saw HP last year with my children and was impressed by Snape but...not much. Probably because his part is so short. During the same week, the french TV showed S&S, and that was it... For me, THE scene was when Col Brandon is waiting outside Marianne's room when she's badly ill... Fever, despair, sensuality, all in a few words... S&S is my favorite AR movie. Unfortunately, lots of his movie are not available in France. My hope is that he finally makes his movie about Len�tre (Versailles's gardener) because I live near Versailles...
Marie
France - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 05:02:49 (PDT)

Spoilers ahead for "Murder, Obliquely"- Are there differences of opinion on the end about Dwight and Annie? Does anyone feel like she is the culprit? I am interested to know your opinions of the ending? Thanks.
Juliana
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 04:57:35 (PDT)

Suzanne,I am sorry! I swear I will never use that kind of words again! ...I don�t like this man and what he did. Emma Thompson is so kind,so wonderful. It�s not an apology ,I know. Sorry.
Rena
Schoenberg, - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 04:34:13 (PDT)

Sorry, idiotic me. Attached is the e-mail addy. Remove the excessive dashes, but I'm getting rather irritated w/ increased SPAMs I've been receiving.
jody <jodylynjo------------at----------msn.comfoo>
CA USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 01:22:55 (PDT)

Anyone out there w/ a copy of the unautho biog in their posession that they'd be willing to let go of? Yes, I've read numerous accounts of how awful it is, but y'know, curiosity did kill the cat, did it not? LOL.

I believe this is why it's called an *obsession*. I've read some atrocious unautho biogs before, so I know sorta what I'm getting meself into. I'll be willing to negotiate a price, or maybe a trade, 'tho my AR collection is pretty much limited to VHS's. But let me know if anyone's interested.
jody
CA USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 01:20:03 (PDT)

Stacie : you�ve got it ! well almost because �Mary� doesn�t exist in France : it�s �Marie�.

Thank you GML for your knowledge. I remember now that you told me once that you were a XIX literature specialist.

Marialis
France - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 00:50:44 (PDT)

Thanks to Barbara the Aussie re: Lucius Malfoy. I, along w/ probably million of Americans here noticed Jason Issac first on The Patriot. Unfortunately didn't notice him enough while busily drooling over Heath Ledger. Too bad HL didn't seem to have much substance beyond the pretty face, so that was that. THEN saw Black Hawk Down when it came out in theatres, and my goodness, once again found myself drooling.

Now I gotta wait 'til Nov. I predict many re-viewings of the upcoming movie. (Mind you, I don't even have a decent excuse-i.e. a young child, or even a young cousin---but saw the 1st movie 5x in theatres.) And now, I have 2, count *TWO* reasons for viewing. Mind you, my obsession for AR seems to be long-term, probably indefinate. So far, my infatuations w/ an actor/-ess was limited in time frame, and waned off. But not so this time. AR seems to be for keeps.

So sorry, I've gone way OT today, but to keep it going, can I just plug a movie I just saw---titled LIAM, w/ Ian Hart. Here we go-AR connection-----Ian Hart starred w/ AR in both MC and HP. TWO connections! LOL. The storyline is somewhat similar to ANGELA's ASHES, but more...bleak, grim, realistic, not so polished...geez, can't quite put it into words. Times like these I wish I *was* an English major.*g*

It's been such a long time since I was so moved by a movie, and it made me cry, something that hasn't happened a long time while watching a movie. Didn't even cry the 1st time I watch TMD. Was so disappointed w/ that, as every review I've read prior to viewing talked about how they cried at the last scene. Had my Kleenex ready and everything! *pouts*

Some time ago, someone posted a link to buy Romeo and Juliet on DVD, for around $30 or so. Being the college student I am, couldn't quite make myself spend the money. But while being irritated at price tag of Beckett on Film ($149), I found a BBC SHAKESPEARE TRAGEDIES DVD GIFTBOX (also at $149), containing:

1. Romeo and Juliet
2. Hamlet
3. Macbeth
4. Julius Caesar
5. Othello

Gotta go grab a jar to start my collection of $149, and change.
jody
CA USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 21:50:40 (PDT)

Maybe you can make The Preacher into 2 videograms (Part 1 & Part 2) if it is too long for one. I am just guessing since I am not sure how it all works. But thanks for trying!
Lynn T
- Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 21:21:52 (PDT)

At the stage door last month, I asked AR if he liked making Closet Land. After a moment of hesitation he told me it was "tough going". I do believe he has mentioned somewhere that there was no comic relief in that film, no respite from the darkness at all. Perhaps there is an interview that goes into more detail...
Mindy
CT USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 20:44:48 (PDT)

After reading all the Closet Land posts I had the thought that it's at least possible that AR enjoys playing a torturer. Anyone know of any interviews where he discusses that movie?
Vera
- Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 20:34:39 (PDT)

Claudia, I think any given GuestBooker here could have performed a better Titania than Michelle Pfeiffer in "A MidSummer Night's Dream." (It's film, you can re-do it 'til its right!) I, however, would have a difficult time looking that spectacular without many bouts of major surgeries. (I think her husband was involved in the production companies, too.) Magda, thanks for pointing out to all Kevin Kline's wonderful performance in the above. The moment where he returns to home and normal life, humbled, but having spent the night with a queen, is so poignant. This is a great film to show how accessible Shakespeare remains to all demographics. Hello, AR newcomers, you've a great many films of his to enjoy from comedies, sci-fi, to historical dramas, get cracking!
FastFilm
Los Angeles, - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 17:32:17 (PDT)

Oh Suzanne, it would be GREAT to put the Preacher here! I still love this one! Ali Pat - I agree with you and I feel that AR has a really good time with Mr. Roux, and it reflects a lot of what AR believes in today (Politically). All people should have a touch of the Reveloution in them! AR certainly does! I doubt that Anybody would put AR into any pidgeon hole. He likes to surprise all of us too much. I guess that is why he makes these "Unusual" films. It keeps all his fans thinking a bit. On their toes so to speak! He will not be fenced in! Jody from CA USA, Yes, I did see Lucius Malfoy for like 3 seconds in the second trailer, but he is very distintive as he has straight Blonde hair that goes down over his shoulders not tied at all! - and evil blue eyes and I do feel that Jason Isaacs (The Patriot with Mel Gibson?) is a definite plus for this HP2! He IS an older version of his son Draco. Roll on Nov! It is so good to be able to write here, it is appreciated so much, Suzanne. Bye.
Barbara the Aussie
Gold Coast, Australia - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 16:36:22 (PDT)

I think Alan Rickman is the best actor ever. I'm his #1 fan.
Tricia Armstrong <PurpleGirl21689@aol.comfoo>
Westminster, CA United States - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 15:53:25 (PDT)

i think that AR should do more films here in america because he is such a great actor. In my opinion he seems to care more about his work than most. Hes always going out of his way to appeal to the people , instead of trying to make a name for himself...which usually just seems to happen b/c of his awesome performances:)
natalie
- Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 15:12:29 (PDT)

Ohhh Stockard Channing (one of my favorites) and Christine Lahti would be wonderful pairings for The Man. Thanks for the info, Anne.
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 14:54:00 (PDT)

More re "Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf" - In Sept 13's Back Stage: "With the recent shelfful of awards for 'The Goat' and a well-received revival of 'All Over', Edward Albee's stock continues to soar. Numerous parties are reportedly clamoring to mount his most famous play. Jessica Lange, Ed Harris, and director Sir Peter Hall are planning to meet with the playwright to plan a production for London and then Broadway. Another possible pairing would be Christine Lahti and Alan Rickman, who will play George and Martha in a reading at the HB Studios this fall. Other stars who have expressed interest in engaging in this iconic marital battle are Mercedes Ruehl (just finished a run in 'The Goat'), Judith Ivey, Bette Midler, Patti LuPone, and Stockard Channing."
Ann
NJ USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 14:50:47 (PDT)

Thank you so much for the sound files Suzanne.. lovely..
Amy
UK - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 13:34:33 (PDT)

Alan Rickman is so cool his greatest movie was Harry Potter and the Scorcers Stone in which he play professor Servus Snape and he is so cool.
Maggie <Maggie@aol.comfoo>
Oklahoma City, OK USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 13:26:51 (PDT)

Great to see some locals around - Stacie, if you're near Monterey, you must know how difficult it is to find some of the more obscure videos! I'm still looking for Mesmer, and Closet Land - may just buy them; I know I'm buying Blow Dry - that was great! Hehehe, Claudia likes wine? I live in the middle of vineyards! You'd love it here! Cloninger Cellars are within walking distance! (so I can stagger home!) Off to join the e groups!
Mazzie <wyrrdsystr@aol.comfoo>
Monterey, CA USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 12:19:00 (PDT)

Well, Rena, seems to me they end up in a swordfight, don't they? (In the film, I mean.) Ahh, shades of LLD....
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 12:11:51 (PDT)

Hey Suzanne. Those are great. The sounds I did are larger chunks but basically include what you have here.

I was only teasing you about the videogram. I wouldn't trade my copy of it for the world.

I'm afraid the screen caps aren't the best in the world (my capture card is a dinosuar). But I hope they are good enough for everyone to at least get a peek at how cute he was in that piece.
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 12:08:17 (PDT)

Rena, I had to edit your post. This server does not allow foul language, so please be more careful in the future. Thanks.

Thanks, Claudia, for those fantastic screen captures! And thank you for your offer for the sound waves (I know how time consuming it is to make them, too!)! But I've already made loads of them. They used to be in the old Sound Gallery (and I apologize again for the delay in getting it back up!), but here are a few of the ones I've moved so far:

And so it begins! - 22K (TP_begins.wav)
I shun fame... it always costs to much. - 64K (TP_frame.wav)
You've nothing to fear. - 17K (TP_fear.wav)
This is how fires are kindled. - 35K (TP_fire.wav)
I had nothing to do with the incident. - 18K (TP_incident.wav)
No more of that. - 14K (TP_nomore.wav)
That's why you sent for me. - 19K (TP_sent.wav)
Something strange happened. - 23K (TP_strange.wav)
We are of that generation that so transformed the world, that future days and nights can never be the same. - 84K (TP_transformed.wav)
I love the harp. That's how men and women should die... to the sound of harps. They're so precious. - 92K (TP_harps.wav)

However, Claudia, if you've made some different ones than these, I'd be happy to post them! You can e-mail them to webmistress@alanrickman.org (don't use my USA address or they'll probably bounce back to you).
As for the Videogram, yes, I shall try (thanks for the encouragement, Mr. Palmer *grin* and everyone else). I tried to make one of the HardTalk interview awhile back (also around 20 minutes), but ran into trouble because of its length, so I gave up since there was already a RealPlayer version. However, I think I have since found a solution to the problem, so I shall go at it again with The Preacher. But give me a few days. They're not the easiest things to make, especially one so long. I'll keep you posted with my progress.

And Claudia, I'm sure you'll treasure your video even after having the Videogram. :-) For there is nothing that compares to seeing it on your own TV (... unless your TV screen is only three inches! LOL).

Suzanne <Suz@mail.usa.comfoo>
TX USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 11:34:24 (PDT)

I am sure The Man can maintain a professional attitude with anyone whether he likes them as a person or not. Isn't that the way it is with just about everyone? I know I have to put on the act from time to time. LOL And besides, I don't think it bothers Emma Thompson all that much--she's the one that ended up very happy...I wouldn't be surprised to see her work with KB again.

And despite KB's personal life, he does really good work. I could name many projects that KB has had his hand in that were excellent pieces of work....Hamlet for one.
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 10:54:34 (PDT)

Isn�t it difficult for Alan Rickman to make a film with Emma Thompson�s ex-husband who has betrayed her? I mean,she�s one of his best friends and Kenneth B. is this kind of man ...(if you know what I mean). How can Alan be friendly to KB - a---e??? I could hardly image Alan talking to KB- a---e in a friendly way.

What do you think?
Rena
- Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 10:43:45 (PDT)

oh no!!!NO NO NO! NOOOOOO! The end of the film (TJM) is missing!! Do you know how the film ends? After the murder was caught,the film is over ... KK and the murder are outside and he asks for .... a coffee??? *RRRUFFF* and over! *Sh.....it Well, c�est la vie. Can anybody help me,please???
verena
- Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 10:31:48 (PDT)

Ohh Magda. I was so glad to read someone else feels the same way about Michelle Pfeiffer's performance in "A Midnight Summer's Dream". Although I think she is a good actress, I just don't think Shakespeare is one of her forte. However, I did find Calista Flockhart's performance delightful.
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 08:16:09 (PDT)

I think the trouble with January Man is twofold: a romantic comedy about a serial killer was not a good idea (anyone else notice how anti-woman this film is?) and there was an assumption that you would find Kevin Kline's character such a charming and compelling rougue that you would be swept up in the spirit of the thing.

Viewers would find KK's eccentricities charming, I believe, if the script weren't so determined to force us to. In addition to making his character an absolute saint, there's an underlying tension of "he's funny, isn't he? isn't he, dammit????" to a lot of his interactions especially with Susan Sarandon's character at the beginning of the film. By the midpoint of their dinner, I no longer had any doubt that she'd made a sane decision when she dumped him years earlier. If the script had had enough faith in Kline to let him generate his own chemistry with the audience it would have worked better.

Anyone interested in seeing Kline at his best, should rent "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and watch him rock the Bard as Bottom. This is one Shakespearean film where the Brit actors do not walk away with the whole thing (although the genius who cast Michelle Pfeiffer as Titania should be sent back to bussing tables asap) and hold out for the Pyramus and Thisby sub-play at the end. KK makes that film work wonderfully.
Magda
Canada - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 07:29:46 (PDT)

Oops! A pause can be a good "thing" not a good "think" (giggle)

I have also posted some sound files from "The Preacher" in Yahoo's ARExp group and a little later in the ar group. Suzanne, I have no way of posting them. If you will contact me, maybe we can work something out. Or you can grab them from the group(s).

Other Webmasters and Mistresses--feel free to use them on your site. Just remember to give credit where credit is due, please....as on anything on your site that you didn't create. Thanks.
Claudia <flipper828@aol.comfoo>
GA US - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 07:27:36 (PDT)

**From Today's New York Times** Filming Beckett, for Education or Excitement September 15, 2002 By CARYN JAMES IN the minds of most television viewers and moviegoers, the name Samuel Beckett comes with the unmistakable aura of homework. But all the energy, comedy and piercing sadness that make Beckett great are on display in "Beckett on Film," a project that brings his 19 stage plays to the screen, translated into works of pure cinema by an amazing lineup of directors and actors. Tonight PBS presents a 90-minute special, "Stage on Screen: Beckett on Film" (10 p.m., Channel 13; check local listings), which includes seven of the plays, including one of the project's most stunning. Jeremy Irons plays two roles, the identical Reader and Listener, in "Ohio Impromptu," a hauntingly beautiful, elegiac 10-minute play more moving than its throwaway title suggests. (It was written for a 1981 symposium honoring Beckett at Ohio State University.) With flowing white hair and a black coat, Mr. Irons faces himself at a long table. The Reader begins reading from a book, a tale of the Listener's lost and perhaps dead love. At times the silent Listener raps on the table, as if he can bear no more, and the Reader pauses, only to pick up the tale again. Mr. Irons, his face hollow, creates a timeless portrait of loss. As the Reader, the ghost of a memory, he does justice to Beckett's graceful words: "Stay, where we were so long alone together. My shade will comfort you." The Listener responds with expressions of excruciating sorrow. Charles Sturridge, who directed Mr. Irons in "Brideshead Revisited," has enhanced the effect by shooting "Ohio Impromptu" in black and white. And as he argues in the commentary on the DVD, film allows him to fulfill Beckett's intentions better than theater, where the stage directions call for the Reader and the Listener to resemble one another as much as possible to suggest they are the same person. Here they really are. Unfortunately, the rest of the special does have a Beckett 101 air about it. Mr. Irons, also the show's host, introduces the other works (including "Catastrophe," in which David Mamet directs Harold Pinter and John Gielgud, and "Play," with Anthony Minghella directing Kristen Scott-Thomas and Alan Rickman). But his narration also lays out Beckett's Big Themes, exactly the way to deaden the viewer's experience. And none of the other works in this television special is as successfully transformed to screen as "Ohio Impromptu." You have to go to the complete project on DVD (Ambrose Video, $149.95) for other gems. In "Endgame," the great Michael Gambon gives a fierce yet restrained performance as the blind, chair-bound Hamm, reflecting on a life that might have been meaningless. All lives threaten to be meaningless in Beckett's world, yet these film adaptations capture how furiously he resisted that threat.
Mesmer's Patient
- Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 06:28:35 (PDT)

Yes, Ali and the shagginess of it! To quote an e-pal of mine......Wowsers!
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 05:37:49 (PDT)

Claudia--thanks for the pics! You are right about AR looking good in this one, and the camera really loves him. It took me a few minutes to realize what was different about him--it's his hair! I think it is closer to its natural-born shade of brown in this film.

Thanks again!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 05:34:33 (PDT)

Verena, TJM is kind of a mess, isn't it? It might help to know that it was produced in the midst of a great writer's strike, which helps to explain why it is so uneven. Still, it has its moments. I've already mentioned how much I like the scenery. And Ed is delightful--his body language all says, "yeah, sure, okay," which is just about all his character says. The great falling-off-the-couch-laughing moments come (for me) during the model scene (he's painting her legs?) and the closet scene when he "serves" Kevin Kline dinner. Also the look he gives the woman as he is guarding her is priceless. I also like just about everybody in the supporting cast, which helps me tolerate the overall sloppiness of the script. I am particularly tickled by Rod Steiger's performance. ("Whhhhoah!")
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 05:26:08 (PDT)

Oh Stacie--That part of the country is my favorite. All the way from Sausalito and the Napa/Somona Valleys (;-)wine tasting!) to Monterey and Carmel (;-) more wine tasting!). Gorgeous area.

GML--I think your on the spot with the reasons AR does such controversial work. The challenge, of course, must be an element (who doesn't look for challenge in their work?) but I think it does go further into being a party to the "opening of the eyes".

Now with all the talk of "The Preacher", I thought I would do a few screen caps to share with you until Suzanne can do the videogram. And let me tell you, she is not undertaking an easy job when she volunteered to do this for us. So here are the screen caps:

The Preacher

The piece is intense...and I do not mean to take away from such wonderful work by saying this but.....I think he is simply to gorgeous for words in this! (giggle)

Oh and I just have to share with you! It has often been stated that it would be nice to have a preview of our post before we commit it to semi-eternity. Well, if you have an html editor package...something like FrontPage, you can test your post beforehand...even a link! Of course, you have to be online for a link to work properly. Just copy and paste your post into the html part of your editor and then click the preview (Frontpage--other editor may have a difference or two) and voila! I hope that helps. Yes, this gets a little cumbersome and does take away from lightening like reaction...but pause sometimes can be a GOOD think....LOL
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 05:11:12 (PDT)

I watched *The January Man* . No idea how I could describe the film. Good? Ok? Bad? Everything! It is the 15th film I watched and it�s not one of my favourites. I like Alan with a moustache,it reminds me a bit of my father ; )

Can anybody please tell me when TJM was produced? In 1988 or after DH in 1989? thanks
verena
bremen, germany - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 04:00:56 (PDT)

OooOoh, thanks for the behind-the-scene videogramme, Suz. I bought the Fallen Angels video a while ago (and sold it again after viewing because this was the only way I could afford it in the first place, umph!) (off with their heads! ;) but I had never seen the interviews. How could I forget Alfonso Cuaron was the director? I was really happy to hear he is going to direct HP III because I think a lot of his work, but I had forgotten he had directed Fallen Angels! That's even better, he's used to working with the man and so might make more and better use of his skills when it comes to Snape... We hope. Oh, and purely from the girlie point of view, it was also nice to see Mr Rickman's *real* hair again... I hope it outgrows the Elyot dye soon.

Marialis, I'm sure you're not 'uneducated', obviously far from it ;), Delphine de Girardin was a great success in literary circles at the time, but has not really made it to the textbooks if you know what I mean. I'm not even sure that her work is available in print these days. I only know of her *in relation* to people like Balzac (who was my favourite author for a while) and Hugo (all these guys used to eat out of her hand apparently, they enjoyed her wit and simplicity), and she was a friend of George Sand, another favourite author and brave unconventional figure. I had to do a little research on her when I was in my last year at school, that's all. Oh, and welcome to the new Frenchie! I'd wave a little French flag at this point if I wasn't a little nervous of all the flag-waving going on in the world at the moment :)

Stacie, I think (my take only) that the reason why Mr Rickman often plays disturbing parts (incest for instance) is that he does not like taboos and this ostrich attitude so many people adopt when it comes to certain very present and very real aspects of humanity or society. I think he is simply hoping to make you confront these phenomena and think about them, rather than run away from them or react with centuries-old prejudiced reactions. If after watching the film, seeing how it can happen, seeing 'real' human beings being involved or sucked up into something that shocks you, and if after reading about the issues etc (which the film might prompt you to do) you still think a reaction of rejection is the right one, then you now are the happy possessor of an 'informed' opinion as opposed to a prejudiced one, even if it is the same one, and you have progressed on the evolutionary scale, so to speak... Thumbs up to him as far as I am concerned. In that sense, he is more than a mere talented interpreter but part of a larger educational machine... if you know how to use it. Oh, and of course, there might be an element of 'challenge' in it. These parts are much more difficult to play than the usual 'hero' or 'villain' ones, it might attract him.

And to come back to the Preacher: please do make a videogram of it, Suzan, it's such a gem and unaffordable, making it available to a few more of the new (and old) guests is only right.. and quite in the spirit! ;) -

GML (revolutionary and pacifist... uh, pretty ineffective ;)
UK - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 03:12:33 (PDT)

Hi! Filme k�nnt ihr auch gut bei edonkey runterladen. Download for Films by edonkey. Dogma,help,I�m a fish,die hard ect.
Anja <markmannthies@onlinehome.defoo>
Germany - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 01:23:21 (PDT)

I don't know if this was already mentioned in the guestbook, but I was very surprised to hear today that Ms. Hortan retired from Kingston in July. Good for her. Maybe they can be together more often now? Anyways, thank you Suzanne for the clips.
Christine (my eyes are like a dying sun)
sitting in the shadows, - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 22:57:54 (PDT)

There is child molestation in Mesmer, in Close My Eyes there is incest, in ClosetLand memories of child molestation, does anyone wonder why Alan chooses so many movies with this theme? I can't think of any other actress or actor with three films under their belt dealing with child molestation and/or incest. (For me, incest is consensual sex between two adults who are blood-related. I don't think it's fair to call the abuse of a child 'incest', it implies mutuality in my mind, or 'sex' with a child. No one can 'have sex' with a child, it's physical abuse, always.)
Stacie
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 21:00:31 (PDT)

Claudia, I live near Monterey.
Stacie
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 20:51:14 (PDT)

Suzanne, thank you very much for the videograms; they are fabulous.
Juliana
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 18:32:25 (PDT)

Suzanne, THANK YOU!!!!
Ashley <drinky_mcmilk@hotmail.comfoo>
Ontario, Canada - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 18:10:53 (PDT)

Oh, Suzanne, Thank you SO MUCH for the videogram. It's wonderful. I have never seen AR in such type of character before, and being obsessed by a very beautfiul woman and obsessed with one.... it's just PERFECT! I think I have to go and find this video and buy it :)

And how passionate AR's character was in this programme! The "swoop her in his arms and kiss her neck" eipsode is so swoon worthy.....*thud* :P If anyone is looking for passionate AR scenes, I will recommend this one. *thud again*

Apart from swooning all the way, :P the videograms gave me more hope on Prisoner of Akzban. Hopefully, with Alfonso Curon who has already directed AR once, AR would have more screen time on PoA and better used than in Philosopher Stone.
Fitz
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 17:36:33 (PDT)

Suzanne,

Try.
Mr. Palmer
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 17:30:08 (PDT)

Pearl J., Received your message. I cannot reach you via network and was told you post here. If you still do and read this message, please be aware that we no longer use 'Philosopher's Stone' interface at 'Hogwarts'. You will need the new interface to log on to the Network. For more information please contact me via (old interface) Keyword: 'HowardPref', House: 'Slytherin', Loc: 'Hogwarts SWW'. Thank You.
Howard
'Prefect', Hogwarts Wizards Network - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 16:56:11 (PDT)

Thank you thank you thank you for those MO clips!!!!! I have never seen them before--what a treat! I think the very first line the narrator says in the short one would make a great photo caption: "It's a story of obsessive love". Nowwwwwww, which of my dozens and dozens of photos of Alan will I attach that to? Hmmmmmmmmmm.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 16:46:45 (PDT)

Mazzie! I love Monterey! IMHO that area of the country is the most beautiful!

Yahoo has several AR related groups. The two I know of right off hand is ARExperience--moderated by Frankie and the ar group moderated by Rafaella. Both groups are full of nice, helpful, and most important....AR drooling people!
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 16:43:08 (PDT)

Fabulous site! I always liked Alan's work, but just recently fell in love. Now I'm making the effort to see everything he's done! Is there an E-Group, such as Yahoo, of some such we can all drool collectively? The man is a God, as far as I am concerned!
Mazzie <wyrrdsystr@aol.comfoo>
Monterey, CA USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 16:08:17 (PDT)

Just want to point out that Beckett on Film may be aired on a different time in your area, so please check your local listings. It will be shown this Friday at 9:30 pm on my PBS station, for example. Also, I like Jamie's mustache, although I prefer AR with none ;-) About Closetland *WARNING, SPOILERS AHEAD* I have heard lots of opinions on this but here's mine: I think the Interrogater is actually the man who abused her as a child. I know, he seems too young and in real life he is only 12 years older than her. We know the abuse occured when she was 5 years old, making him 17. But the characters ages could be slightly different, for instance 15 years difference and he could have been a college student. Aside from the age issue, I think his identity is obvious several times in the film... like at the end when she relives being in the closet and he sings the song about chopping off her head. That's when she recognizes that it is the same man. Who else would know that song but him? Also, the part he says about pulling out the fingernails and the pink, tender flesh underneath. He compares it to a little girl's bottom "before a man's touch." The look in his eyes... he knows and remembers. She doesn't remember him at first because she was so young, she is traumatized, and she has blocked the incident from her mind for years. He doesn't reveal himself until the end because it's his last desperate attempt to make her sign the confession. I feel like he doesn't really want her to be killed or lobotomized and thus all his attempts to convince her to sign. I'm not saying he's a nice guy... far from it. But you can see the conflict in him, he's not 100% bad--a common trait in AR's portrayals. Also, I believe that at the end she is imagining freedom in her mind, thus the lighted hallway. He puts the handcuffs on her and opens the door and she walks bravely to her doom. This is just my opinion, of course, but I've seen it many times.
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 15:41:57 (PDT)

Thanks Suzanne....but my question to you now is......Why didn't you think of that before I became $100 poorer...LOL???
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 15:05:39 (PDT)

What is WYWKL and how does a mortal get it?
Vera
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 14:55:09 (PDT)

Here I am! :-)

It's okay, paragraph fixed.

And Ashley, yeah, those links from the March 01 GB are old. Below are the current links for the Murder, Obliquely Videogram clips you're looking for:

FA Preview (53 secs, 1.4 MB)
FA Behind-the-Scenes (3 min, 32 secs, 3.5 MB

Perhaps I should try to make a Videogram of The Preacher. It's about 20 minutes long, right? Hmmm,... I could try...

Suzanne <Suz@mail.usa.comfoo>
TX USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 14:53:09 (PDT)

As soon as Suzanne sees the request, I am sure she will re-post the videograms. She has done so with some of her other work on several occasions.
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 14:41:52 (PDT)

WHAT?! I'm awake! I think...anyway...

SO! I was actually reading my Entertainment Weekly today and I found "Beckett on Film" under the EW Recommendations with an EW Video Grade "A". Just thought I'd let yall know. I was supprised to see it there.

Well, there's my bit for the day. Good night.
Jayne Claire
AL - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 14:20:08 (PDT)

Well, Claudia, I must have talked to the wrong person (or could it be this rash of inquiries they suddenly received?! LOL). I said I was interested in "The Preacher" from the Revolutionary Witness series and the lady on the other end responded with: "what is the name of your institution?", which caught me off guard of course so I said: "pardon?" And I THOUGHT she said I had to be the administrator of a learning institution such as a library or school to order this product (but I could have heard wrong since I was still shook up over the "institution" question!). So I said: "oh, sorry" and I hung up! LOL Maybe I'll try again one day when I can find some justification for spending so much money (sorry I still have CL on the brain!).

Marialis, I think your description is perfect! Nina was grieving for SO long over Jamie's sudden death that she couldn't remember what it was really like living with him. So I think he came back to remind her and to help her get over him and get on with life. But he can come haunt me anytime! :)
Deborah
AZ - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 14:05:22 (PDT)

Sorry, but does anyone know where I can get these two videograms of Murder Obliquely? They were posted by Suzanne in March 2001, but the links don't seem to work anymore: Preview (53 secs, 1.4 MB) Behind-the-Scenes (3 min, 32 secs, 3.5 MB) From: Sunday, March 11, 2001 at 09:09:08 (PST)
Ashley <drinky_mcmilk@hotmail.comfoo>
Ontario, Canada - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 13:56:41 (PDT)

Oops! I meant to include a giggle or LOL with my wake up call to JC...sorry I was just kidding.
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 13:50:14 (PDT)

Wake up Jayne Claire!

Stacie, the company I posted earlier today is a US company. I included their toll free number.
Claudia (a Dog fan!)
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 13:48:28 (PDT)

Hello! Amy Catering San Diego California. Thank you for letting me sign your guestbook and thank you for your website. Glad you are here.
Amy
San Diego, CA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 13:46:43 (PDT)

OT-Sorry.

"Idgit"? Wait, scuse me? Did someone use my word? Scuse me? Huh?
Jayne Claire
AL - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 13:30:41 (PDT)

DVD extras--Its the "Victoria Wood w/All The Trimmings" extra that has the delightful (yet very brief) footage of The Man cracking up.

The extra on WKWYL is one of my favorites. It is a backstage look at the making of "The Four Yorkshiremen" skit. It shows the group of guys (and hey...Izzard ain't so bad ;-)) backstage before and after the skit and I must say that the footage of The Man just seem sooo like the real AR. I lurv watching just that part of the DVD...and as with anything thing AR that I lurv...I watch time and time again (giggle)
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 12:52:26 (PDT)

Marialis, what did you combine? Mary and Alice? I interpret TMD as Marialis' and Ali-Pat's views combined. I think Jamie is behaving as he did when he was alive, but deliberately, and his goal is that Nina will remember his imperfections and be able to give up her idealized vision of him and their love. From the beginning he keeps her emotionally at arm's length, and he immediately starts with the complaining etc. His purpose is to show her the part of reality she's blocked out. He does not want her to get emotionally re-involved with his ghost. I don't mean to sound like an idgit, but what is The Preacher and can we get it in the U.S.?
Stacie
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 12:09:11 (PDT)

Deborah--I don't know who you could have talked to but I ordered it and had no problem. The associate asked me if I would be using the video for educational purposes and I told her no and being the inquisitive person I am, I asked why. She just said there are discounts available for educational purposes.
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 10:52:19 (PDT)

So many Post to respond to!

I love Jamie's mustache!

When I tried to order "The Preacher" (expensive is right: over $100.00 total!), they told me I had to be from a school or library.

Now I'd like to give my short views on "Closet Land"

I don't think you have to be twisted to like this movie. I love it too! Not only because I think it's some of AR's best acting. And not only because of the way he looks (hot, yes!) and moves (such precise mannerisms!). But mostly because of the profound affect it had on me. I must have lived a sheltered life, because I had no idea things like this still happened today in so many countries! So it opened my eyes to put it simply. And I'm sure it must have had the desired affect on me that Amnesty International intended because I have been a regular contributor to that organizations ever since. And since AR participated in this movie and the "We Know Where You Live" event, he must also believe it a very worthy cause. CLOSET LAND SPOILERS:

I think one reason this film is so disturbing to some people is because it often takes the perspective of the prisoner. In other words, the camera is looking at things from her point of view, so we feel like all these things are actually happening to us. The scene, for instance, where he is walking directly towards her (i.e. towards the camera: TOWARDS US!) with pliers in one hand, rolling his sleeve up with the other, never fails to send shivers down my spine! Ok, I think I said enough -- sorry, didn't mean to scare anybody. :)
Deborah
AZ - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 10:29:06 (PDT)

I know this is trivial...but there is almost a 10 buck shipping and handling for The Preacher.
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 10:21:37 (PDT)

Dang! That touchpad caught me again. As I was about to say before I so rudely cut myself off, you can find ordering information for The Preacher and other items on the FAQ section of this wonderful website.
Ali-Pat
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 09:37:37 (PDT)

The total for The Preacher comes out to be around $90, which makes it about $6 per minute! And although I am curious about the other three segments of this production, I am not curious enough to shell out $270 for them. (insert image of battered wallet here).
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 09:36:18 (PDT)

Frivolous post to Stacie. The TMD facial accoutrements were, believe it or not, once fashionable. 3 fave aspects of TMD plot to me: he is so nice to her! Always pawing her, and of course, the overall mission; these classical musicians get a kick out of pop music and freely play it, like most unsnobby classical musicians I've met; and the pop music choices, no matter how exuberantly presented, have such gloomy, pessimistic perspectives, underscoring the movie's mix of tragedy and comedy.
FastFilm
the here and now, - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 09:34:04 (PDT)

Ann M.--extra stuff on DVDs:

Die Hard--Five Star version. The Cutting Room lets you see camera angles from a Hans scene that are different from the film.

Bob Roberts--no extra scenes, but a whole passel of film stills of the cast, incl Rickman. (What is he doing with that light fixture, by the way?)

Michael Collins--no extra scenes, but one of the documentaries includes footage of Eamon De Valera which shows how much Alan copies his body language in the film.

Dogma--lots of extra scenes, but I don't remember any with Metatron. Sorry--I don't have a lot of patience with this DVD! You will have more luck at the View Askew website, which has a lot of stills of a "kitless" Metatron.

Blow Dry--a documentary with an interview in which Alan describes the difficulty of holding a comb and a scissors and tossing them from hand to hand. Very funny--my hairdresser loved it.

Galaxy Quest--don't forget the "Easter egg" with the short interview.

We Know Where You Live--there is some rehearsal footage which includes AR cracking up a lot (have not seen this but it has been reported several times on the GB)

Harry Potter--there is acut Snape scene, but it takes the patience of Job to find it. Worth the work, though!

It also seems to me that there are outtakes on Victoria Wood with all the Trimmings, but I can't verify this.

And as for the Galaxy Quest cut scenes--AR shows up in all but one, and I dearly love the "motivational" speech he gives Tim Allen!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 09:30:09 (PDT)

Hi Claudia! How much?
Anja <markmannthies@onlinehome.defoo>
Germany - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 09:25:34 (PDT)

Welcome Ashley--The Preacher is available commerically through The Pheonix Learning Group--toll free number in my previous post. Be prepared though, it is REALLY expensive.
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 09:10:08 (PDT)

WinMX is just like Kazaa so again, be careful and use common sense when downloading.

Your welcome Marialis--and BTW, love your name too.
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 08:53:05 (PDT)

Hi, I've never posted here, but I really like to read the GB. I've been working on my AR collection since spring and have only one left to find (Close My Eyes) of the main films. I am now extended my search to his hard-to-find pieces, like TV shows. After reading some of the recent posts on The Preacher, I really really want to see it! I didn't know it had ever been made available commercially. Does anyone know if it can be found online? I also noticed in a post from a little while ago a link to the Intelligence lyrics back in March 2001. In that same month, there were two videograms for M.O., the Fallen Angels segment Alan was in. I tried to download them, but I got an error message. Could this be because they are old links? If so, could someone please post them again? Thank you so much!
Ashley <drinky_mcmilk@hotmail.comfoo>
Ontario Canada - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 08:51:49 (PDT)

Thank you Claudia for your explanation.
Marialis
France - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 08:31:13 (PDT)

If you want to download "Take Me With You" without going to Kazaa (sp?) then you can go to winmx.com and download the winmx thing and you can get the song off of that. This is where I downloaded it. You can also find many other great songs to download some of them AR associated (Intelligence, Texas-In Demand, etc.) I've never had any trouble with viruses on that and none of my friends who use it have either.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Missouri USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 08:31:10 (PDT)

Ali-Pat--On the other Revolutionary Witness segments, try The Phoenix Learning Group 1-800-221-1274. Amazing description of your feelings when watching "The Preacher" for the first time. I think you summed it up, perfectly. The Man is truly awesome in this piece.

And thanks for the heads up on the Beckett DVD. Although I like a great deal of Beckett's work and I already own Play, I really sort of laughed at the price but now I think I might just have to bite the bullet.

Ann, CT--I know that the "Help! I'm a Fish" and "Blow Dry" DVDs have extras with some nice interviews with The Man. Unfortunately, HIAF is a Region 2 exclusively and I'm not sure if the Region 1 of BD has the interview or not.
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 07:55:35 (PDT)

Barbara the Aussie--I agree with you about The Preacher. I wish there were a way for more people to see this as it is probably the best bit of film Alan has ever done. It is only 15 minutes, but it is all Alan, and he is particularly intense. The first time I saw this, I felt exactly the same way I did the first time I rode a roller coaster ("the Beast" at King's Island, for all you Buckeyes). I felt breathless and tingly all over. And just like the roller coaster, I immediately had to experience it again.

I wonder if the other three segments are available somewhere on film? (The Patriot with Simon Callow, The Butcher with Alfred Molina, and The Amazon with Janet Suzman). I would be curious to see them.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 06:54:41 (PDT)

RE Beckett on Film, I urge everyone to watch this entire series, not just "Play". I bit the big one this summer and purchased the DVD collection and I must say I am impressed, especially since I had previously known next to nothing about Beckett. Included with the set is a documentary called "Check the Gate: Putting Becket on Film", which I hope they include in the TV series. It puts the plays in context and spotlights most of the directors and actors (with one notable exception which the producers make a wry point about). The segment on the filming of "Play" includes an interview with AR that has some quotable lines and a humorous moment when he asks the interviewer if he can hear him over all the hammering going on as they build the set around him. But anyway, the whole series of plays is extraordinary (or at least those I have watched so far). I particularly liked Ohio Impromptu with Jeremy Irons, which left me speechless.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 06:44:39 (PDT)

Do any of the DVD's have extra scenes with Alan? I know Galaxy Quest has a little more (but the director made the right choice in snipping them, in my opinion). I'm especially wondering about Dogma and Harry Potter. I wonder if we'll ever get to see all the Harry Potter stuff that was cut. Ann
Ann M. Williams <awilliams@sjc.edufoo>
West Hartford, CT USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 06:37:40 (PDT)

Dag nab it! http://www.kazaa.com/en/index.php One of these days, I am going to quit copying and pasting! LOL
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 06:10:44 (PDT)

OT-I'm pretty sure this kind of off topic. I was just sitting here reading the GB, wondering how Alan feels about PM Blair backing G.W.Bush on his plans for Iraq. From what I understand Alan is a Liberal. I only have a scant overview of British politics and I was wondering if there were any like-minded British GBers who could give insight to the generally feelings on this. If anyone would like to discuss this please feel free to e-mail me and strike up a chat (American or British or German/Bavarian, etc.). Also, it would be great if anyone has heard anything AR has said about this. I'd really be interested in knowing. I know this isn't about TMD or anything so please don't flame me if you find it a little off topic. Thanks
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Missouri USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 06:10:30 (PDT)

Kazaa is a p2p (peer to peer) application that allows its users to share, search, download, or play files with other users. The application and downloads are completely free. The KaZaA website is very informative and has virus protection tips. There have been a few AR files available from time to time (the availability varies because the sharing user may not stay connected 24/7) and I have seen the "In Demand" video available at times. May I suggest that anyone contemplating Kazaa to please read their site thoroughly.

Google--my boyfriend turned me on to Google in their early inception days and told me that Google can find just about anything. It has been a thrill to watch this company grow to the magnitude it is today.
Claudia
GA US - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 06:07:13 (PDT)

I forgot this - or rather, in doing a googlesearch on "Alan Rickman Download" I stumbled over an Italian? site that has the extended confrontation of Snape and Harry in the new Potter Movie. I find Alan's careful pronunciation of the herbs involved quite quite nice... (from an herbologyst's point of vew!) Don't drool on the keyboard, girls. Lovely Snape Webpage

Look for "L'aula di Pozioni (inglese - 5,07 mb)" under "Video" :)
Amanda
NY, NY USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 05:55:46 (PDT)

Oh No! I'm a moron! I can't believe it! I missed the HP preview on WB last night. Please someone help me! Was it good? How good was it? Did anybody tape it? I had meant to. I should have set my VCR to tape regardless my own stupidity or inability to flip on the television. I can't believe I missed the one thing I'd been looking forward to all week! Oh well, at least I'll have the Beckett films on PBS on Sunday! I hope AR is in those!
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Missouri USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 04:53:07 (PDT)

Credit where due - I'm glad so many liked the poem, but all I did was Google it - I'd never heard of it or its author until Vera (I think? - it was days ago) posted a line from it and a search for the phrase turned up the author. For more info on her, search "Delphine de Girardin."

Off-topic, speaking of Google - I read this week that mainland Chinese Internet users who try to access Google and Altavista are being automatically re-routed to government-approved search engines. Not nice! On-topic (somewhat) - I'd be curious to know how many/which countries are represented here, including lurkers. Any way to tell?

Re letters - One of the things AR is doing at the moment is catching up on his mail. On Saturday August 31, I left two photos and a Playbill at the stage door along with a letter requesting personalization for my teenage niece and a young boy whose mom I met through the GB. They arrived on Thursday, both inscribed "To [Name]/Best Wishes/Alan Rickman." I don't know whether they arrived any faster because I included a stamped, addressed envelope, but if you live in the same country where he happens to be at the moment, it can't hurt.
Anne/Manhattan
- Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 04:52:52 (PDT)

I was browsing the internet and stumbled over it:

Press Release:

THIRTEEN/WNET NEW YORK'S STAGE ON SCREEN CELEBRATES ONE OF THE 20TH CENTURY'S MOST INFLUENTIAL PLAYWRIGHTS WITH A TWO-PART EVENT: BECKETT ON FILM ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 AND WAITING FOR GODOT ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1 ON PBS

Jeremy Irons Hosts A Beckett Showcase Featuring New Film Adaptations Of Seven Short Works And Waiting for Godot, Performed And Directed By Leading Names Of Stage And Screen, Including David Mamet, Harold Pinter, Anthony Minghella, Kristin Scott Thomas, Alan Rickman, And John Gielgud

More can be found on:
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/stageonscreen/
http://www.thirteen.org/pressroom/beckett/press_release.html
I know that you will all enjoy this. Please keep your eyes open for other PBS station's broadcasts. I was hyserical for a few moments when I thought I might get a bit of a Rickman fix off the Stage On Screen Website, but alas, my Realplayer is not contacting it due to a cruddy firewall. Rickmanus Interupptus! I hope you all enjoy it.
Amanda <avollaro@globix.comfoo>
NY, NY USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 04:42:46 (PDT)

Thank you girls for your advise regarding writing more letters to A.R., but what is the point? A.R. will open previous letters before he gets to the current ones, thus he will eventually get to my first of 3 letters to him. The only reason I am going to write one more time is because I am moving, and hope I will get a reply from him rather than his agent in the near future. Note: I regard my letters and artwork to him special - they are semi-love letters... I am sure you girls can relate... Are yours like this? Maxine
Maxine
Toronto, Canada - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 03:46:48 (PDT)

To everyone - What is KAZAA ?

Ali-Pat - Thank you for loving my name� but I�ve created it just like you have created yours ! And I sincerely love yours too ! Back to TMD : I have thought too that Jamie could have come back just to help Nina� and balanced between the two possibilities. But I don�t think that Jamie manipulates her. He comes back just like he was before : complaining, inviting friends whenever he wants without asking her before, moving furniture however he wants just because he�s at home and has never appreciated Nina �s taste in decoration and certainly because it�s boring staying at home all days long ! She asks him something like �Was it like this before ?� and I think yes it was like that but after his death she forgot all those little things that make difficult to live a couple�s life. She just remembered how wonderful it was and how wonderfully in love they were. And because she realizes that it wasn�t perfect with Jamie she could accept to come back in real life and go on with another man. That�s the way I understand this movie. But maybe Jamie knows from the first moment why he�s here. I don�t really know.

GML - I�m quite amazing that you know Delphine de Girardin ! I don�t think I am totally uneducated but� who is she ? Well, your post makes me wonder about the sense of my life� I grew up in Provence, not so far from Vidauban (to be frank I don�t know Vidauban, but I know all the country of Marcel Pagnol around Aubagne) � but I moved some years ago to marry and find a job in the west of France� Gosh� So if I haven�t marry I would have had a chance to meet (and seduce) Alan Rickman (sigh !)

A Concerned Citizen, It�s difficult for me to make up my mind on your very interesting post. The question of the choice is always very interesting. It�s the main theme of the �Chamber of Secrets� isn�t it ? Harry wonder during all the book if his place isn�t actually in Slytherin because the Sort Hat told him that in first and he discovered that he speaks the snake�s language. But Dumbledore explains to him, at the end, that he is a Griffindor because he wanted to be one. He made the choice of the human being he wanted to be during the ceremony of the Sorting Hat. But is it so simple in real life ? History told us so many times that it�s easy to manipulate people, playing with their fears, with their fantasies� with the dark side we all have in us� History told us but current events still do everyday� In Afganistan, in Israel� not so far ago in Yougoslavia and so many other countries I don�t think to right now� Algeria too� God help us ! When I think to all this I really feel depressed ! Still� I can understand that people could be manipulated mainly by misinformation and I don�t think to myself as a better person than another � but I still can�t imagine that I could have been a torturer in another life�or anything like that. And you�re right : there is everywhere, each time, people who resist and stay in the right way so� Why them and not others ? Even if they�re few they prove that we have the choice� And it�s comfortable to think we have the choice. Maybe we could even say it�s a luxury to think that we have it. It�s certainly easier in our societies than in some others�

It was �The Philosophical Hour of Marialis�� Don�t give up� GB still goes on !
Marialis
France - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 03:10:20 (PDT)

Barbara the Aussie---My, my, I must have blinked; where was Lucius Malfoy? Fell "head over heel" w/ Jason Isaacs a.k.a. another deliciously evil British guy w/ piercing gaze.

From Oct issue of Premiere mag, inc. in their list of "Best of...", Best Action Film---Die Hard (1988). Director John McTiernan's mastery of staging, framing, and cutting made this new-style action movie kick like nobody's business, but it was the engrossing interplay between wry hero Bruce Willis and suave terrorist Alan Rickman that gave it a galvanizing emotional jolt. Yippee-kay-yay, indeed.

Also from the same issue, under Best Villian-Anthony Hopkins as Dr. Hannibal Lecter. Also really great: Glenn Close in Fatal Attraction; Robert DeNiro in Cape Fear; Ralph Fiennes in Schindler's List; and Alan Rickman in Die Hard.

Just a reminder about this Sunday's "Stage on Screen: Beckett on Film" on PBS, from 10-11:30p.
jody
CA USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 02:07:07 (PDT)

Anne/Manhattan your poem was really on the mark! I'm glad to see it. Ali Pat, I agree with you that 1991 was a wonderful year for AR (minus Closetland, I'm afraid), maybe it was because he had just done, what I consider is AR's best work, "The Preacher". I hope everyone here gets to see this one. Like Jamie, there is a lot of AR in this one. Judy, Sydney, N.S.W., gee you have a good memory! "The capaticity humans have to love, what happens to it? I blame the Goverment! I hate the B###'s. I still attend meetings!!" I am glad someone responded to you. I feel that we should all respond to the questions here on the GB, wherever we are from. P.S. Good to see the two trailers on ch.7 and 9 for HP2 CoS last night. My My, Lucius Malfoy looks interesting!!!! Cannot wait!
Barbara the Aussie
Gold Coast, Australia - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 23:32:24 (PDT)

Closet Land spoiler- again. The man is too young to be the person who hurt the woman as a child. She is saying "oh, it's you again," to recognize that she is dealing with this issue again, but not the same person. The Mother's friends would probably be much older. At the end of the meeting, I think he opens the door for her.
Juliana
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 23:15:53 (PDT)

SPOILERS FOR CLOSET LAND **** I've only watched CL once and absolutely hated it (Alan's good looks notwithstanding). I believe the woman would have been killed in the end, so was there any benefit in The Interrogator making her stronger? Only to handle her own death perhaps.
Gaye
Adelaide, South Australia - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 22:24:54 (PDT)

And don't forget that extra ".
Ali-Pat
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 21:29:38 (PDT)

Read "doused with water.
Ali-Pat
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 21:28:56 (PDT)

Okay, back to more serious discussion. It's a character flaw--sometimes the silliness just pours out of me....

But, anyway, CLOSET LAND SPOILERETTE AHEAD

Elizabeth, there is some serious contention as to whether the Interrogator really was the man who molested Madeline Stowe's character as a child. I adhere to the camp that thinks he was making her project that experience onto him. He seems far to young to have actually been the man, and by this point in the film she has retreated so far into her mental Closet Land that it is quite easy to believe her mind is not fully on the present.

'NUTHER CLOSET LAND SPOILER

Where does everyone think Madeline Stowe's character goes at the end of the film. Do you think she escapes? The key for me is realizing that the hallway she walks down at the end of the film is the same hallway she walks down to get her pitcher of water ("dew" left for her by the fairies) and also the same hallway she imagines walking down and getting doused water (same pitcher) by the Interrogator. Those are both imaginary scenes, and I think at the end of the film she is imagining her escape.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 21:27:04 (PDT)

Stacie--I'm with you on the moustache front! Ohhhh, this is heretical, but I think Jamie just needs a little trim here and there so he doesn't bring the name "Mario" to mind.

Hair's an idea--how about a special "beard" issue to accompany the two highly satisfying "hair" issues of the Monthly Rickmanista? I can see a progression of photos as the beard recedes from Hans (full) to George/Cedric/Cecil (a bit of a trim) to Marsten (goatee) to Jamie (moustache) to Sinclair (no beard). Or how about a sideburn issue? Even more variation there!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 21:15:19 (PDT)

POSSIBLE CLOSET LAND SPOILERS: I just saw Closet Land and would like to chime in on the recent discussion regarding this movie. First,I have to say that AR was fantastic in it. Of course what the Interrogator does to his prisoner is terrible and there is no excuse for it. However, I think that it is a tribute to AR's abilities that he was able to make even this character three dimensional and not just a cardboard cutout representing evil. This is not to say that the character is redeemed in any way. I feel no sympathy for him, especially knowing what he did to Madeline Stowe's character as a child. Nevertheless, I think what people are reacting to is the fact that we are allowed to see that he may be conflicted (however slightly) about what he is doing, and that he, too, has been manipulated by a tyrannical government. The Interrogator is a sick individual and not a nice person in any sense of the word. But he is also, as portrayed by AR, a very interesting and complex character.
Elizabeth
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 20:43:45 (PDT)

I am wondering, how do GBers feel about Jamie's mustache in TMD? For me, it's too long, too wide. I like facial hair, but that looks like a kitchen broom under Alan's nose. What do you think?
Stacie
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 20:12:43 (PDT)

Concerned citizen -- well, we are talking about Alan here and speculating about a fictional character. Most fans will admit they were rooting for nasty villains like the Sheriff, Hans, Elliot, and Rasputin, and look what they did. Alan has a talent for making us sympathize with the bad guys. And yes, I did refer to him as ALAN, because that's how I have always addressed him in person and I don't see any reason to do otherwise here.
Tami
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 19:44:38 (PDT)

To Concerned Citizen & Others: AR has been recorded as saying that to portray an individual is not to become that individual, that the essence of an actor is to portray an individual no matter how foreign to one's own point of view. The interrogator in Closet Land is horrific and despicable. It is frightening that admirers of AR could find reasons to excuse this charactor because they admire the actor who plays him. You should be horrified by this character, as AR assuredly was when portraying him.
susan
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 19:33:56 (PDT)

"Closet Land" Spoilers ahead-- I really love "Closet Land" because it helped teach me a very valuable lesson. When AR's character tells Madeline Stowe's character to "depersonalize what follows" that is the main point of the movie for me. We all have stress at times in our work and personal life. Taking the emotion out of a situation helps one look at the problem with a clearer head and point of view. When AR 's character realizes she has a secret she does not want to reveal, he makes her undergo all these trials to face up to her miserable childhood. When she finally admits everything her Mother never noticed, only then can she get on with her life. She is so amazing and strong; her character really is an inspiration to me. His character finally realizes that she is stronger than he is especially when he repeats , "There is no justification for cruelty." He has resigned himself to a miserable life, but has made her a stronger person in the end. I know that this movie is also an educational one about the need for Amnesty International, but it speaks to me on many different levels. Alan Rickman's performance is one of the finest ever is his career, especially when he is pretending to be the 2nd man with the gruff voice and the 2nd prisoner. He is an amazing actor who conveys strong emotions for me. This is just my opinion and not meant to start a big row. Kindest regards, Juliana.
Juliana
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 19:32:37 (PDT)

Closet Land Spoilers Ahead-- I really like
Juliana
USA - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 19:21:03 (PDT)

Mmmm, encouraging "possible" news about "The Search for John Gissing". I can't wait to see that one. Thanks, Georgiana.

Thanks for the Kazaa warning, Barbara. In my rush this morning, I neglected to add that to my post. I apologise. The danger for viruses exist when you download anything. Yes, with Kazaa the danger increases. But I have been using Kazaa for three months now and have downloaded over 300 files with no problem whatsoever on my personal or work PC.

A reliable virus detection software package should be a staple on every PC.

Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 17:46:53 (PDT)

Barbara, thanks for posting that about Kazaa & the viruses; I was about to download it tonight. Can't thank you enough.
Harlii
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 17:18:29 (PDT)

Christianne, do you refer to the inclined-head-scrunched-forehead-raised-eyebrows-looking-over-invisible-glasses posture? If so, nope--that is not the look he used in the CR interview when he talked about the common problem of stage fright.

Wonder if his gremlin resembles Dobby...
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 16:58:53 (PDT)

I do not feel sorry for monsters. Certainly, Hitler had a bad childhood and crazy parents, but he chose to become who he was, and act in the way he did. The interrogator might have been a victim of the regime he was working for, but he still chose to become the aggressor, victimizer, abuser and torturer. Possibly even got a bonus when he did a good job, with weekends off, medical insurance, and a two week holiday in the summer. I am sure that many people choose death rather than become like those who are their torturers.
a concerned citizen
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 16:01:18 (PDT)

Those Colin Firth folks appear organized. At their site, I learn:

1) "Londinium," the Mike Binder film that preceded "The Search for John Gissing," and which starred Colin Firth, is presently showing on Cinemax (premiere 2 Sept - through 29 Sept). (This is what happened to "Judas Kiss," and is certainly better than no release at all.)

2) From their "Love Actually" page, it appears Colin Firth--at least last week, was the one on location in Vidauban, France. The film is in production now through 29 November.

Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.com`foo>
Seattle - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 15:31:40 (PDT)

OT: KAZAA

Please, please, PLEASE be very careful with Kazaa. That site is a hotbed of "burglarizing" viruses -- they embed in your system, copy your passwords and creditcard numbers and send them to various addresses across the internet.

I recommend never using Kazaa at all. My cousin regrets that *he* did....

Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 15:01:03 (PDT)

Hi...

Just a quicky, to admit that I don't know the poem by Delphine de Girardin either.. but I remember that she's the one who said something to the effect that (baaad translation) "what (who) we love best is what (who) we can't get" (not meaning it to be on-topic or anything, rrrrhummmm ;) - Oh, and while I'm here, I hear that the French part of the shooting of 'Love Actually' is taking place in Vidauban, in Provence. I think this is where Marcel Pagnol shot 'le Chateau de ma M�re', well, something to live up to! Great location. Don't know if the man has to shoot scenes there himself, but if he does, he should have a good time: the locals make their livelihood producing *wine* ;))

GML
UK - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 14:10:51 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, I just got around to reading the posts from the last few days. When I read your analysis of TMD, I thought I was reading MY words. I have thought exactly the same thing, about Harry, the scar, the little girl. I am so glad that I am not the only one who has made that connection. It was wonderful to read that. Thanks for sharing.
Linda
NJ USA - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 12:33:23 (PDT)

Well, luckily I didn't have to sit through the entire hour's worth of that atrocious new sitcom, Family Affair to see the preview. I loved how even the narration implied that Snape was the bad guy. And that clip! He's more twitchy than ever! I have a feeling that by the next movie he'll develop an all-out nervous tic! Of course, if you're a highly intelligent political animal who is forced to teach over-confident brats who suspect you of wrongdoing only on the basis of your stereotypically evil appearance, a nervous tic might be the natural consequence! :)
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 12:27:41 (PDT)

I was going to ask this question of you anyway, and now on coming to the GB I read a related discussion, so here goes: I read the Charlie Rose transcript and at one point they are talking about fear, and AR says, "You know, it's a common problem." When I read that remark, I could just hear Jamie, see his facial expression, in 2 scenes with Nina, one where he says "It's fine; it's fine" and the other where he says "I know you shave your legs". So my question is for you who got to see the CR interview--do you think AR resembled Jamie when he said that to CR?
Christianne
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 11:56:20 (PDT)

So. Mortianna, Mail abgeschickt. Es kann sein, dass ich die Mail 4 - 5 mal abgeschickt habe - tut mir leid, doofes Programm ; )
verena
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 09:46:49 (PDT)

na gut mortianna, I�ll try again. Mal sehen, ob es diesmal klappt.
verena
Why men don�t listen and women can�t read maps, - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 09:36:54 (PDT)

Marialis (beautiful name!), I think that not only did Jamie know when it was time to move on, he was planning for that moment from the time he showed up. In fact, I believe that the whole reason he came back was to help Nina "over the hump", so to speak, in her grieving process. You can see the plotting in his eyes as he manipulates Nina into realizing that she has to let go. Moving furniture, bringing home friends, keeping the apartment stiflingly hot, nagging and complaining--these are all the tricks he is using. And they work. Reminds me of a line from an old John Denver song (I Think I'd Rather be a Cowboy):

"Her memory always makes me smile, but I want you to know I loved her, yes, I loved her--just enough to let her go."
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 09:10:51 (PDT)

New CoS trailer at http://harrypotter.warnerbros.com/web/dailyprophet/home.jsp. Check out Alan looking really Snape-ish. (^-^)
Zel-Anne <zelanne@yahoo.comfoo>
Philippines - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 08:44:20 (PDT)

Bienvenue Marie ! There is too few french people here ! Sometimes we read from Nathalie from Paris. And I think that Saskia would come back soon from vacation (really Saskia, where are you ?)... but the oldest one (not by age but by years of GB) is GML who has got the chance to live in England. So she could see all the films we can't get here in France !). So tell us Marie, are you a new fan... when did you noticed the man first ?

Anne/Manhattan and Vera : Sorry� and ashamed� but I didn�t know the poem of Delphine de Girardin� And I don�t even know her� Hope that GML could help you.

SPOILER TMD and CL

Ali-Pat, I love you post about groups surrounding Nina, Mark and Jamie. I�ve noticed that it is the first time someone speak about Mark too. It�s as if for us - I mean Jamie�s lovers ;-), Mark was competing with Jamie. Yet I think it isn�t at all the theme of this movie which I regard as an Hymn to Life. I love Mark too. I don�t see any competition between Jamie and Mark. Because Jamie knows when he�s got to leave� He knows it before she tells him about Maura�s Baby. Because if not, how could we understand the very little scene with Pierre when Nina has left the house to meet Mark ? I don�t remember it very well, but I think Pierre just asks �so ?� to Jamie (still sitting near the carpet, on the floor) and if I remember well he just answers �yes�. Very short scene� but there is so much in it. It means �I know it is now the moment to leave, to die, for good�And it was inevitable.� And I consider the bunch of roses on the table when Nina comes back after her first night with Mark as a sort of �take over� from Jamie to Mark. This movie is a gem. And I think that if it works it isn�t only because of AR� If Mark was charmless we couldn�t believe to his love story with Nina. But Mickael Malhoney (not sure of the spelling) gives to his character something human, something warm, and sensitive, something that makes me feel that it would be wonderful to love him and to be loved by him�too. It works too because Mark is so different from Jamie that somehow he could appear being �complementary� with him.

About CL : I haven�t seen it but for people who are interested in it I remember a very fine analyse of this movie made by Elisabeth, here, in the GB. I think it was in June or July 2001. As you said Tami, she tended to show that both characters are victims.

Ewa, I remember you very well� I�m happy to see that you are still with us.
Marialis
France - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 08:34:03 (PDT)

Tami: macht's nicht! Ich spitze! JR from Scotland: Did you prefer the books or the TV series(Moomins)? I prefer the books myself and Moomintroll is such a great word i must find a way to use it more often.
Rose Snape <epansesor@yahoo.defoo>
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 05:21:56 (PDT)

I have the following videos up for grabs:not PAL- Rasputin, January Man, Dark Harbor . The following are PAL: Winter guest, Help I'm a Fish, Judas Kiss. All in good nick! E-mail me, lol, Sallyxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Sally <sallyphillips@btinternet.comfoo>
London, UK - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 05:12:14 (PDT)

****CLOSET LAND SPOILERS***

***********CLOSET LAND SPOILERS*********

******************CLOSET LAND SPOILERS**************

I want to clarify what I said earlier about not finding anything sympathetic about the Interrogator. Alan really pulled the rug out from under me with his performance. I now see that he was a victim also, but I did not see this on first viewing. The Interrogator lied to the woman so many times and pulled so many "bait and switch" moves that, when Alan's patented sympathetic portrayal came through in the end I did not trust him. The whole cigarette thing shook me up badly, even though there is some grim humor to it. Only on later viewings did I begin to warm to the possibility of Interrogator's own victimization. But that is what makes this such an amazing movie--it is so convincing. Yet it remains disturbing to me, and I have to really build myself up to see it. Alan gives a tour-de-force performance, however (playing three people at once is no easy feat--even with the assistance of electronic audio enhancement), which is why I have watched the film more than once. I can't really say that repeated watchings dulls the impact of the cruelty and torture, but I concentrate on the acting that is going on and am able to get through it.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 05:10:06 (PDT)

Marialis, c'est avec plaisir que j'ai d�couvert une deuxi�me fan fran�aise de AR. Y en-a-t-il d'autres? I'm a french fan of AR. He'i infortunately almost unknown here, and we have very fex occasions to see his movies (dont(even think to the plays!). So thank you for all the informations I can't find elsewhere.
Marie
Paris, France - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 05:04:00 (PDT)

Harlii--The name of the song at the end of The Winter Guest is called "Take Me With You". Music by Michael Kamen, sung by Elizabeth Fraser, and lyrics by the one....the only....The Man....err or is that Mr. Rickman? LOL BTW, download the song from Kazaa. It is a beautiful song.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 04:51:51 (PDT)

Oh and I had read that Jamie was very close to The Man's real personality as well. Just one more reason to lurv that film. But, I did not make the connection with the Charlie Rose interview. Thanks for that, Ali-Pat. I will have to examine that interview once again this evening. Oh my, what a chore (giggle)
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 04:47:04 (PDT)

DARN! Interrog"a"tor. Typos are what I get for being in a hurry! LOL
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 04:41:47 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, I could only watch Closet Land twice--the second time only as a favor to a friend but in the second viewing, I was able to see a teeny weeny spark of "humanism" in the Interrogtor when he was acting as the nice guy. It seemed he was trying to make the woman know that it really wasn't his desire to do what he does. There was something in his eyes.

TMD--That film could never get "over viewed" for me

Harlii--The Man does make an oh to brief appearance in TWG. That film is very special to me as well. It has so many wonderful messages in it.
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 04:12:07 (PDT)

DH: rewatched the scene, sorry she wiped over his lips and then looks at her fingers.
lelefua
- Friday, September 13, 2002 at 00:48:45 (PDT)

Need some help please, does anybody know, where to get a version of closet land, running on a german DVD or VHS player?

DH spoiler!
Did anybody see, what I ment to see, that the young man, when he run off and Alexis looks for him in the woold, wipes over his mouth, because he has also a red spot there. Might it be from kissing David, who just came out of the woold after following him?
lelefua
stgt, - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 23:36:06 (PDT)

Aaaahhhhh it's all clear to me now Alice Patricia! Still giggling
Judy
Sydney, Australia - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 22:52:40 (PDT)

I must be one of the few who hated TMD. I really hated it. REALLY. Too much weeping and too much snot. I wanted to smack her. The other 2 flicks of AR's that I don't care for at all are CL and JK. I taped over my JK and sold the CL...it was just not subject matter I could watch more than once. Very hard to watch and just...strange. I guess I'm too shallow to have appreciated it.

On the other hand, I loved TWG with all my heart. I can watch that over and over and AR isn't even in it really. I think just knowing he directed it got to me...I totally felt the coldness depicted in the scenery. And I loved that song sung at the end...I can't remember the title, but I posted the words here once, not knowing they'd been posted before...beautiful.
Harlii
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 21:08:09 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, I feel much the same as you about TMD. It's far too special to be over-exposed. The AR film I watch most often is probably Blow Dry, since it's entertaining and enjoyable but not so emotional for me. I do love Closet Land, call me twisted, but I think Alan is amazing in it. And I do feel sorry for the Interrogator-- you can see through his act if you pay attention. He is also victimized by the government in a different way.
Tami
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 20:56:15 (PDT)

Re: Closet Land, I saw the film when it was first released more than 10 years ago; I would have walked out of the film early on had it not been for Alan being in the film. The movie played in NYC for no more than 2 or so weeks. It's pretty tough to watch. I also bought the video, and I have to confess I've never even removed the cellophane from the box. It's a really disturbing film, but I believe it was meant to be. Please be aware before you watch the film.
Ellen
New York, NY, - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 20:53:01 (PDT)

Stacie, RE Closet Land, you don't actually see the most severe episodes of torture being inflicted, but it doesn't take very much imagination to know what is going on. This film made my skin crawl, and it almost put me off AR for a while because his charactr had no apparent redeeming qualities. By the end of the film, the Interrogator had used so many tricks and baffles that I didn't know what to believe. (Plus I my feelings were very confused because AR looks absolutely HOT in this film--a big "huzzah" to whomever put him into those suspenders! [bites knuckles]) But I told myself that it was only a movie and they were only actors and I watched it again. The second time was still pretty bad, but I began to see a glimmer of something in the Interrogator I could read as human. With subsequent viewings (and I still have to be in a certain mood before I watch it), I have learned to appreciate the depth of the performances offered by both the actors, and I have come to admire it from that standpoint. But it is certainly a hot potato of a film!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 20:33:37 (PDT)

Thanks a million for the HARDtalk interview posting. I was able to watch it for the 22 minutes via RealPlayer and it worked great!
Ellen
New York, NY, - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 20:27:04 (PDT)

Here is the link to the "To be the idol of one's idol....." quote: http://www.aeu.org/loveis/chap09.html

Hope that helps

Brenda
Brenda
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 20:17:09 (PDT)

Jules from Scotland, what's a moomin'? Anne, thank you for finding that poem. I want you all to know that I know you've had that fantasy of Alan meeting you and having the epiphany that it is you that he has been waiting for all his life, yes, you...and don't you deny it. Tami, thank you for the grammar lesson...Claudia, so you don't see the abuse...does he talk about torturing the woman, in detail? Did anyone like ClosetLand? Jaime, Can you make an appointment with Jules' hypnotherapist? Try the Moomin'/Rickman cure. I'm not sure what it is, but it sounds like Alan running around with HR Puf'nStuf and a bunch of Oompa Loompas. Visualize that 12 times a day for seven minutes each and get back to me.
Stacie
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 20:15:33 (PDT)

I loved the FAQ's, and I think I have a little clarification about Mr. Rickman's height: 5'10" may be close, but in "Quigley, Down Under", I noticed that he's not THAT much shorter than Tom Selleck. (If I remember correctly, he's 6'4", which may put Mr. Rickman a little closer to 6'0", or maybe even 6'1".)
Denise <drkenned@yahoo.comfoo>
Knoxville, TN USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 20:01:14 (PDT)

Oh jeez...
Stacie
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 19:54:07 (PDT)

Granted, Judy, but forgetting your own name is a pretty serious lapse in memory!
alice-patricia <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 19:48:33 (PDT)

I got home late tonight but managed to tune in just in time to see the Harry Potter CoS trailer on TV. Yes, it was a trailer of decent length and included a somewhat brief shot of AR- looking very Snape-ish.
martissima
chicago, IL usa - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 19:23:13 (PDT)

Perhaps your mind was on "other things" - mine ususally is!!!
Judy
Sydney, Australia - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 18:20:04 (PDT)

Stacie-- I like the tooth.
Jaime
i have tried everything!!, - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 18:18:52 (PDT)

Alice!! Of course that's her name! Geezy-weezy how could I forget that?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 18:15:18 (PDT)

IMDB - Internet Movie Data Base - when you get the word order right.
Lily
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 18:02:05 (PDT)

"Doesn't obsession say it all?" Well, yes, doesn't it. And, since I haven't obsessed on the GB for a few days, here I go obsessing away with a little speculating thrown in for good measure.

I looked up the IMDB entry for Heike Makatsch (as I'm sure others have). Given what I read there, I'm speculating and guessing wildly that she will be a sexual dalliance, away from Emma T, for AR's character in "Love Actually". Do we have any professionals reading the GB at this time who could fill us in on the casting phenomenon? Who would have guessed at this young German star being part of the "Love Actually" cast. What do the German Guestbookers think of her? I'm glad to know of Franke Potente since "Run, Lola, Run" so I probably shouldn't be so cynical.

Also, any scuttlebutt from Germany regarding whether the movie with Famke Janssen and possibly AR as a detective working on the capture of the Bader Meinhoff gang is going forward? (Forgive mis-spellings.) No information on the IMBD.

And what happened here! No one made it into Judith Ivey's living room for the reading? Jeez.
Lily
Chicago, IL - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 17:48:33 (PDT)

"Alice"?
Judy
Sydney, Australia - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 17:38:51 (PDT)

Will the videos be back in the near future? I miss them.. Re: AR roles: his greatest role is yet to be portrayed (although I never saw him in LLD, which I heard was amazing.) S&SB was great, but his part was too small. Mesmer was HORRIBLE (you can rent it from Netflicks if so inclined--I recommend turning off the sound and watching it.) As for the kissing -- I have yet to see an AR film with adequate kissing. Don't know why this is -- might be I am expecting too much. susan (old GB)
susan
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 17:17:02 (PDT)

Claudia, about the director's commentary on DkH, I couldn't agree more! Seems he was too wrapped up in his own cleverness to produce a really coherent film.

Thanks, everybody, for all the positive feedback about TMD. It is a movie I only save for special occasions, as it is so meaningful to me. And I don't ever, ever want to lose that through overuse.

I do want to point out one other detail about the film, however, but this will only make sense if you have watched the Charlie Rose interview a lot. I read somewhere that Alan's portrayal of Jamie was much closer to his own personality than any other role he as taken. I saw evidence of this during the part of the CR interview where Alan talks about doing a run-through of LLD for Christopher Hampton. The way he keeps pausing and adding parenthetical comments along the way is exactly the way Jamie talks when he is telling Nina about the little girl and the playground (I forget her name, but she is three).

Hope you all are enjoying the movie tonight! I seem to have set off a rash of TMD viewings. Oh, and as often as I have watched that film, last night was the first time I ever noticed the scar on Nina's nephew.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 17:01:11 (PDT)

Hey Deborah--that's just as good an excuse as any to sit down in front of Jamie again! I'm on my way....LOL
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 15:07:27 (PDT)

Oh, the child in TMD! Yes I understand now. Thank you for the clarification, Ali-Pat. What's funny is, as many times as I've seen TMD (almost as many as Claudia! lol), I don't remember the child having a scar on his forehead. And even forgot his name was Harry! Must go watch it again...
Deborah
AZ - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 15:02:34 (PDT)

Rose Snape, was meinst du? Wir haben viele Leute, die Deutsches hier sprechen. Es hat nichts mit dir zu tun. Viel Spass!
Tami
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 14:47:39 (PDT)

I understand perfectly, Ali-Pat, and I love your observations on TMD. I would like to hear more, if you have them. Sometimes I think that maybe I see too much in this film... but to me it's a masterpiece-- rich with symbolism, poignant, funny, and down-to-earth. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one who finds it so meaningful. Stacie, it's AFFECTED. Effect is a noun.
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 14:38:59 (PDT)

(tee hee) I was scratching my head on that one too, Ali-Pat....and I call myself a TMD expert since I have watched it a hundred million times (well maybe the number is an exaggeration).

Deborah--yes, the poison ivy scenes are as you remember and it never showed Alexis scrubbing his face. Among some of the things I don't even try to understand with that is the boy offered to go into the wooded area to retrieve the birdie but David stopped him and went himself...even after Alexis pointed out the poison ivy. It just doesn't make sense as does several things in that film. The director's commentary was soooo over analyzing that I just can't even bare to go back and check to see if he did say something about it.
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 14:30:22 (PDT)

Deborah, the child in TMD (Nina's nephew) is named Harry and has a scar on his forehead not unlike Harry Potter. The film came out in 1991, which left ample time for that little detail to lurk subconsciously in JKR's mind as she wrote her famous novels. Far-fetched, I know, but possible! (Besides, I had my tongue poked pretty far in my cheek when I wrote that.) But as for the JKR being a closet Rickmaniac, it has been observed by more than one person in the past that the character Snape seems almost to have been written with Alan Rickman in mind. And somewhere I got the impression that she had a lot to say about who was cast in the various roles.

Does that help?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 14:13:39 (PDT)

Ali-Pat, could you please elaborate on the "JKR being a closet Rickmaniac" because the child is named Harry and has a scar on his forehead? Maybe I'm dense, but I don't get the connection!

DARK HARBOR SPOILER:

I only rented "Dark Harbor" twice, so correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't David get poison-ivy after going to find the lost ball (or whatever that was they were batting around in that game)? Isn't it the next scene we see Alexis scrubbing him down under the shower to get the poison-ivy off of him? Apparently she forgot to scrub his face. :)
Deborah
AZ USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 13:51:22 (PDT)

Denken sie nicht das sie deutsch koennen sprechen und ich werde nicht verstehen. Ich denke Deutsch ist klasse aber wie klingt Severus Snape in Harry Potter und der Stein der Weisen, mein boese deutsch Lehrer hat es nicht gekauft:( Sorry couldn't resist.bye *waves to e/one*
Rose Snape <epansesor@yahoo.defoo>
Plymouth, England - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 12:34:28 (PDT)

Well Jules from Scotland, I wish you luck. AR has never helped my own depression. It's something having to do with overwhelming intensity being too much for tattered nerves.
Julia
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 11:56:39 (PDT)

Hi everyone. I'm glad to see there are other young AR fans around! I'm 16, and just wanted to share a bizarre (for me at least) experience with you. I suffer from depression, and visit a hypnotherapist for help with coping with it. During my first session she had me find my 'happy place' which was,hilariously, a non animated Moomin land ( c'mon, you must remember the Moomins!) complete with Alan Rickman wandering around. Don't ask me to fathom how one's unconscious mind works...
jules <psychodairyfarm@hotmail.comfoo>
Scotland - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 10:33:11 (PDT)

n�, verena, war genau richtig, aber ich hab immer noch keine mail von dir.

ali-pat -i loved your post about tmd, and the others:-) have to differ on the priorities, thouhg. the scene where jamie recalls this experience (the kissing at 11 o'clock in the morning part) was about the most erotic thing ever, last time i saw it. must see it again, i think.-)

thanks to anja, who pointed someone in the right direction, i went back to the guestbook of june and found a wealth of stuff. beside loads of reports about pl (and ann/nj: i really am an idiot, i should have known you at the stage door) there are those whatyoucallems from the tonys suzanne in her never ending graciousness made. if you, like me, thought: "why should i be interested in costume, design and all that?" - go for it! it has been said before, but i never did actually go! i should have known our hostess better*lol*. there are no boots, but surely some nice things to watch over and over again. kissing and such.yep!
mortianna
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 10:17:24 (PDT)

Stacie--you won't see the torture but AR is sooo good at implying it that it is almost to real. Besides the heebie geebies it gave me...it also gave me a good look at the depth of AR's talent.
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 10:06:10 (PDT)

ClosetLand Spoiler. I haven't seen Closet Land. To those who have seen it, did it tarnish your image of AR? I know he's just acting, but I'm worried about watching him be a sadistic torturer. Isn't that his role? I have a friend who was so affected/effected, (English teacher anywhere?), by Matt Damon's performance in The Talented Mr. Ripley that he can't watch him in movies anymore. He associates Damon too strongly with his Ripley character. I don't want to watch AR torture someone. It might have a similiar effect on me.. As far as RHPOT goes, to me, that was comedy. That's not a rape scene, that's slapstick.
Stacie
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 10:03:21 (PDT)

Sorry to take up so much space, but I am feeling very thoughtful today.

Some thoughts on TMD, which I felt moody enough to watch last night.

First off, here is something to add to the "Why we think J. K. Rowling is a Closet Rickmaniac" list. I never caught this before, but the child in the film is named Harry, and he has a noticable scar on his forehead.

Secondly, another belated reaction to the recent discussion of passionate/passionless kisses. Someone pointed out that Jamie and Nina kiss more like siblings than lovers (at least, more like siblings who are NOT named Natalie and Richard). That is true, I think. But if you look at their relationship as portrayed throughout the film and hinted at from dialogue, it is not out of character. Think about it--the first night they spent together they talked the whole time and didn't even get around to kissing until mid-morning. And even that after cornflakes. We all have our priorities...

And my final observation on TMD (I promise). I love the way the three major characters are portrayed as having their own set of "people" who act almost like a little Greek chorus, looking out for them and commenting on the state of their lives. Nina's group is the four men who watch her hanging out laundry as they do the dishes (four guys in the kitchen doing the dishes together--how common is that?). Jamie's group is, obviously, all the ghostly pals he has around him. And Mark's people are his learning group. I love the way they surround him, kind of like a halo.

My point is, this is a poignant portrayal of how we all carry groups of people around with us--nobody is alone in this world. This was made even more real to me last night as I watched the film and reflected on the memorial ceremony held at the WTC site yesterday. All those people who are now gone as a result of what happened a year ago--they all had choruses of people they left behind. And yesterday, many came out to be together and form halos for them.

I'm not sure I expressed this as clearly as I feel it, but I hope someone out there understands!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:58:05 (PDT)

mortianna, yes, I did. War das falsch?
verena
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:56:50 (PDT)

Yes, Claudia, he called it "that dog" when I asked him to sign a picture from the film.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:46:59 (PDT)

Sorry, forgot to say Dark Harbor spoiler. Look out below!!!
Stacie
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:44:35 (PDT)

Dark Harbor is not one of my favorite AR flicks. I only own it for the obvious reason! LOL But, I have quite a few problems with the film and one of them is the poison ivy factor. I could find no redeeming reason for ole to Dave seemingly purposely walk into a patch of the wicked weed! He seemed quite capable of coming up with reasons for pushing Alexis away without poisoning himself. The motel was a excellent example.

JC--A break out of poison ivy can be isolated to only the areas of contact but depends on the patient. I for one, break out all over by just coming within 2 feet of the nasty stuff

Also, some where in the archives is a post that states that The Man thinks this film was a stinker or a dog or something to that effect....maybe it was a Georgiana post???
Claudia (who is deathly allergic to p.i.)
GA US - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:38:46 (PDT)

Oops! RMD is not some undiscovered classic. It is simply a mis-typed TMD.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe#earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:35:15 (PDT)

A belated response to Harlii's question earlier this week about which AR movies we find ourselves reaching for again and again. The one I love most and watch most is AABA, but BD seems to run a close second. Maybe because they are both so richly textured and are full of details I keep unearthing. I also watch DkH a lot because there is so much of him in it, in more ways than one. And I also love S&S because, even though there is not much AR in it, what is there is "cherce". And it is such a beautiful film--full of painterly settings and scenes.

I also find myself coming back to what I think of as the "great quartet", the four films made or released in 1991: RMD, RHPOT, CME, CL. What an amazing range of characters he presented to us in a short year's time! I get the impression that he felt at the top of his game that year, and it shines through in all four of these.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:33:18 (PDT)

Poison ivy on purpose? Heaven forbid! I am still getting over a nerve-wracking bout with the stuff--it covered my arms and legs from fingers to armpit, toes to thigh. I thought I would go mad until I discovered Rhuli-gel.

I have always wondered about that spot of poison ivy, though. David just might have been that set on getting the details right (I will will not say anal retentive, I will not say anal retentive, I will not...) to give himself a dose on the face. But my unfortunately vulgar mind always supposed that it was a result of the boys having a little tumble in the undergrowth that night David was supposed to be taking the young man back to the mainland.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:22:22 (PDT)

Dark Harbor Spoiler

Stacie, I think the poison ivy was on purpose. First of all, how easy is it to get poison ivy on the corner of your face, yet no where else? And second of all, things were winding down and he was realizing it was about time to do the deed. He felt the urge to push away from her. Sorry if my wording is a bit ambiguous or short.
Jayne Claire
AL - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 09:09:32 (PDT)

Also Lee, that same morning scene in Dark Harbor shows them both causing the other to feel 'off kilter'. For example, he's weirded out by the fact that she's not wearing her watch, and she's weirded out by the fact that he doesn't want banana. Even the camera angle is crooked in the beginning of that kitchen scene. I don't think that he delberately got poison ivy to repel her, but I'm not sure what it's supposed to symbolize. Anne/Manhattan, thank you so much for printing that poem!
Stacie
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 07:22:51 (PDT)

Thank you Barbara-T-W!
Fausta
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 06:38:32 (PDT)

Vera - Poem is by Delphine de Girardin, nee Gay (1804-55):

To love one who loves you,

To admire one who admires you,

In a word, to be the idol of one's idol,

Is exceeding the limit of human joy;

It is stealing fire from heaven.

I assume this is a translation from the French but a quick search didn't turn up an original; one of the French GBers might have better luck.
Anne/Manhattan
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 02:28:34 (PDT)

I think the *Magsa* is a typo. S & D are side by side on the keyboard. I'm enjoying reading the GB this evening. Heh.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 20:42:12 (PDT)

Alice, if the show were HardMan, that could imply a physical requirement of male interviewees that would be difficult for some to achieve, but what an idea, I know I'd watch.
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 20:19:39 (PDT)

Is Magsa a nickname for Magda or a misspell?
Cindy
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 20:04:13 (PDT)

When you are female, (and heterosexual), and admire a male greatly, I think the inevitable fantasy is of the male admiring you equally. Which reminds me of the end of a poem, does anyone know the beginning or who wrote it? To be the idol of one's idol is to exceed the limits of human joy, it is stealing fire from heaven. - Are there any guestbookers present who have not had the fantasy of Alan meeting them and being greatly impressed?
Vera
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 20:02:02 (PDT)

Not AR, but Colonel Brandon as AR 'plays' him.
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 19:54:08 (PDT)

Thanks Magda. Claudia, I think AR has an unusual intensity and gravity in S&S, which may be what they are referring to when they say they had to get used to him.
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 19:52:57 (PDT)

Oh, for God's sake, Magsa, pay attention! (that was my tribute to Prof. Snape for today.) We have discussed this before: It's rude to hint at extra info without revealing it, AND none of us can be expected to read each other's minds. If Georgiana meant more details of her trip would be shared with friends, that's fine and dandy. It's fine and dandy if she doesn't share her AR tidbits with us, either. She paid the $500+$150 USD to go see him, she respects his privacy and she was kind enough to tell us where he is and what he was doing there. Good enough. However, my own patience for exclusivity is only so great. Call it Marxism, call it Miss Manners, call it "hiss hiss". I don't care. I have stated my views on the subject quite clearly enough, I thought, in a post addressed to Georgiana, in a polite manner. Any views on the subject you or anyone else may have can be sent to me via email privately. As my great-grandmother used to say, "This is the end of the discussion. The conversation is over."
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 19:37:01 (PDT)

March 3, 2001 23:11:52, to be exact. I'm glad somebody brought up that song. Since I will have to wait until Santa brings me a no-region DVD player before I will ever see the HIAF movie, I have been contenting myself with listening to the soundtrack. It's pretty good! I play it when I am feeling kind of low, because, being from a kid's film, it is relentlessly upbeat. But I go around the house singing the shark song occasionally, and Little Trees haven't gotten on my nerves nearly as badly as I thought they would. And of course there's Terry Jones....and Alan.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 17:57:13 (PDT)

That's okay, Stacie. Cheers.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 17:53:27 (PDT)

The words to "Intelligence" were posted to this Guestbook in March 2001.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 17:23:17 (PDT)

i think this is the greatest site and i love alan rickman
samantha
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 17:22:54 (PDT)

Yes, Lee. I know the Pemberley site. Interesting reading for the Jane Austin fan.

In the S&S section, when a poster is writing about ET's adaptation, its strange for me to read how they had to "get used to" Rickman's Brandon or how Brandon "grew on" them. I can't even imagine watching that film for anyone else! LOL
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 16:49:55 (PDT)

Oh, never mind.
Vera
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 16:40:09 (PDT)

Magda, don't take that personally. I don't know you, but of course you're intelligent. I didn't phrase that in a nice way, I'm sorry.
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 16:38:31 (PDT)

Do any of you ever visit the Republic of Pemberley website? I have just been over there reading people's posts on S&S, specifically on one particular army officer in the film . . .:) I wanted very much to invite one contributor in particular to the GB but did not know if it was my place to do so. The Republic is at www.pemberley.com
Lee
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 16:14:33 (PDT)

I haven't been here for ages, that's why I'm a bit embarrassed... But could anyone point me to the lyrics of "Intelligence"? I wanted to decipher the song all by myself but I seem not to be able to do so.

Btw, I watched AABA recently and I was really disappointed with the ending. The film had such a potential and I had a feeling that it was all left unresolved.
Ewa <ev_vy@SoftHome.netfoo>
Warsaw, Poland - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 15:58:01 (PDT)

So how come David didn't see the poison ivy rash when he was shaving?
Lee
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 15:30:32 (PDT)

Don't give up hope of Alan signing an autograph. I wrote to him in early August at the Richard Rodgers Theatre and received an autographed photo yesterday.
Juliana
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 15:11:40 (PDT)

Yes, Stacie, I can grasp simple concepts. I can even grasp complicated ones and more than one at a time, in fact. Thank you for enquiring.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 14:46:47 (PDT)

Just my 1.5 cents...

On the Mr. vs Alan deal, I think it all depends on that person specifically. I, for instance, am VERY Southern and I believe that the idealness of Southern Hospitality lives within the people and within me. I have grown up teaching MYSELF morals and proper etiquette and would stand for nothing less than calling anyone that looks any bit older than myself "Mr. or Mrs." if I find it to be proper. I admit, when I was at the stage door, I referred to Lindsay Duncan as "Mrs. Duncan" and she was thrilled at my Southern Hospitality and commented on it a few times. It makes me feel a bit more "proper" (for lack of a better word) or respectul to address adults in that fashion. I am still young so I address quite a few folks that way.

Sorry to hold it just to the "Southern Hospitality" part, but like I said to begin with, it's what etiquette is held within the person themselves to decide.

Whereas, what the response to your comment will be...Well, that's THEIR decision!
Jayne Claire
AL - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 14:40:46 (PDT)

Hiss, Hiss. Oh my, what a way to begin reading the GB. :)

As to the Mr vs. Alan. I know many people from AR's generation that when referred to as "Mr" they automatically think they are refering to their father. "Mr. Wilson is my father, I'm Jim" kind of thing. Doesnt mean we shouldnt do it. We still call teachers Mr & Mrs (at least I think most of us do). Just my 2 cents.

ps - I hope I did this thing right. I'm still new to the gb thing.
Meryl
Southeast, OH - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 14:10:48 (PDT)

Point well taken, Stacie. I do understand what your saying, but as Magda pointed out...the "more to friends later" could simply mean that she has non-AR related trip details that closer friends would appreciate more than the general audience of this GB.

Vera--you have confused me.
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 14:00:37 (PDT)

Alan vs. Mr. Rickman

My mother taught me, when speaking to non-family members, to address them as Mr., Mrs., Ms. or Miss -- especially when addressing someone from her generation or older.

I called AR, to his face, "Mr. Rickman" -- too bad if that bothers him. My mother taught me to and, frankly, I fear her disapproval more than I fear his.

Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 13:57:12 (PDT)

Claudia, how would you feel if you had such a story to share with this guestbook? My guess is excited, thrilled and proud. Georgianna may have got as much out of sharing it as we did out of reading it. It was interesting and informative, thank you, Georgianna.
Vera
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 13:35:23 (PDT)

Nobody said she didn't have the right to share more information with her friends. Of course she does. The point is that Miss Manners would say that announcing that to the uninvited is careless of other's feelings. That's not a hard concept to grasp. If anyone posts anything that says--"She has the right to tell her friends whatever she wants"--again, you are only revealing an inability to grasp a simple concept.
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 13:29:55 (PDT)

Thanks for the Hardtalk direction. As I sat watching his thousands of expressions on a blown-up screen, I was amazed at all the muscles that man could make work on his face, and how many expressions he could come up with: from a frown to a twinkle in a twinkle of any eye. Wonder if he deliberately trained himself to make all those faces: guess so, since he talks about 'the instrument'. Now I get it, about A&C. He was mumbling, because he was playing an alcoholic: didn't know that about antony...that he and Cleopatra weren't heroic anymore but kinda broken down shadows of their former resplendent selves. What a man...and he was thought to run for a Kensington or Chelsea seat. No mention of Rima and her political situation in that interview. It was truly NOT a puff interview, yet he didn't flinch. He said, "We hoist ourselves on our own petard all the time." No defensiveness whatsoever. Great and weighty interview. It will take me another time through to truly digest it all.
Alice <alicecbrown@yahoo.comfoo>
Canton, Ma USA - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 13:19:01 (PDT)

My sentiments exactly, Magda. I would have thought that everyone would have been grateful that she shared her story with us. She certainly wasn't obligated to do so.
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 13:18:30 (PDT)

Charlotte,
what do you mean with:"I think it is a bit inappropriate to flood this site with multi paragraphs about ones life. We are here to praise AR..not to bury him. "
I hope you don't mean Mortianna's wonderful NY reports.
I'm so thankful to all of the guestbookers who wrote about their experiences with NY, the play, the theatre, AR, stagedoor, meeting other guestbookers .... for me it can't be long enough, because I hadn't the chance to go there and that way I can take part a little bit and enjoy it, too. Sorry for the bad english, but I had to say, the reports are great, it's a pity it's all over now.
lelefua
stgt, - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 12:55:04 (PDT)

I think that Georgiana has given us enough information about the event she attended, especially that info that is pertinent to AR. If Georgiana wants to share information of a personal nature connected with her trip with her friends, that is surely her prerogative. After all, people are only assuming that the "more" concerns AR. It more likely pertains only to the rest of her trip.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 12:50:35 (PDT)

Georgiana, dear, while I'm sure we all apreciate your fine review of the cocktail reception in NYC, and are no doubt in awe of your self-censorship and respect for AR's "privacy", I believe we discussed the negative effect that comments like your "more to friends later" have on the tone of this GB. Either desist from such comments, reveal everything to friends and interested parties alike, or submit to nasty, horrible comments that waste Suzanne's bandwidth and contribute nothing to the tone of this GB. I hope you will consider this in future.
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 12:41:54 (PDT)

Alice--a transcript of the "HardTalk" Interview is on the Interviews and Articles page of this great site.
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 12:03:24 (PDT)

Hi, where is the HardMan interview (Hard something) about Alan's mumbling in A&C and his reaction to it? Also, I will be in London about the middle of Oct. and understand "Love Actually" starts filming now in Sept. Where do you suppose they will be filming, since Grant is playing the PM? Downing St.? Not that I'm a stalker, but I would like to see any shootings open to the public. Hey, if I suppressed my urge to take shots (photos) from the 2nd row of PL, then you can sure I will behave when seeing him shoot. (I do confess I slipped him a note at the stage door, though. Glad I wrote "Say Hi to Rima" since she was there. ) I'll be there from about 10/14 till 10/31 but can be flexible. I'll be staying at the 4 Seasons, since my daughter's significant other is Pur. Mgr for Boston 4 Seasons and gets free lodgings he can't use. Does anyone know if Rima is still in public office. She used to be a representative for a London 'borough?", I understand. Alice PS Mortianna should be a professional writer.
Alice <alicecbrown@yahoo.comfoo>
Canton, Ma USA - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 11:49:56 (PDT)

Whoops, sorry! "An author once WROTE..."
JC again
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 11:21:28 (PDT)

A bit OT, I'm sorry.

Today my heart and prayers go out to all of those touched by the events that've shaken the world on it's hinges. I too lost close friends from work and find myself touched by the wreckage.

An author once wrong "Whatever obstacles control, go on, true heart, thou'lt reach the goal." I find the world has succeeded in continuing. I see the sun still rises over the plains, the music still plays, and laughter is still heard. I personally, thank Broadway in general for helping us maintain the smiles. They never rested. Broadway never quit on us like many thought it would.

God bless America and the rest of you all.

I hope you all have an incredible day.
Jayne Claire
AL - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 11:20:31 (PDT)

magda - that sure is good news:-) thank you. funny, a release date in holland for a film that hasn't yet been made, but no such luck for john gissing. strange.

verena - hab ich mir schon gedacht. hast du das foo weggemacht?!

jayne claire it was your story, actually, that made me reconsider flying over there. i really enjoyed each and every post about every experience, and that was the reason i wrote mine - aside from wanting to make it more real for myself.

after thinking and thinking again about the big question, why we are all here (think elyot: "dear lord, what does it all mean?") i learned that i am here to share in a joint interest and indeed it feels like family somehow. well, some people are more the extended family but they make me learn the deep truth of coward's plays ("being flippant brings out the acid in them" - well, i discovered lots of acid in me, thanks :-) some heysanna hosanna from time to time doesn't hurt either. :-) plus: if i think really hard, i can think of ways to bury the man, in all decency, of course

georgiana - that was very interesting. so the mystery woman of the tony's is no mystery any more and no outcry anywhere? hm. strange.

cyndi - i really appreciated your try at bringing humour back here. in my never ending quest i went back to your "stalker experience" and loved it and laughed again. thank you for it.

last not least. after having been to nyc (oh lord, not again) i think of the people and the city today. more than before. thanks for making it real.
mortianna <mortianna@gmx.netfoo>
dungeon, Germany, - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:51:13 (PDT)

I loved your post, Cyndi!
Lee
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:45:47 (PDT)

Italics fixed.
Suz (D.o.C.)

Oh no. My cat has italicized the whole guestbook! I am so sorry. I'm trying to get her to unitalicize it, as I don't know how.
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:45:00 (PDT)

Okay, my cat seems to have caused an error here by knocking over the mouse...Did he say that it irritates him to someone or in an interview? Did the person who asked about Antony and Cleopatra have trouble hearing him in the play? That was a common complaint in articles I read by critics. Watch the Hardtalk interview for Alan's thoughts on the reactions to the play. Alan seems to have reached his limit on signing photos. There's only so much a person can do for fans and still have time to work, eat, and sleep. Don't take it personally. Maybe in the future when he has some down time you'll have better luck. Though, he doesn't seem to care for down time.
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:42:41 (PDT)

Did he say
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:36:42 (PDT)

Hi, Mary from McHenry, I was glad to read your post today. I was nervous about coming to the library today because the TV people are trying to make us all paranoid about going places but I am glad I came and glad you posted your note!
Lee
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:36:08 (PDT)

Thanks Magda for more enticing news from "Love Actually". Hopefully, we can get some good release news soon for everybody. But I still want to see "The Search for John Gissing"!!!!

Mary--thank you for your wonderful words and welcome back if only for just a day.
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:18:05 (PDT)

Still no release date for TSFJG but I did find a review on DVDWolf.com (of all places). They loved the movie. Here is the AR portion:

I went to see this film because of the cast. C'mon, any movie with Alan Rickman, Janeanne Garofalo and Juliet Stevenson with London as the backdrop has to be a good bet. And I sure wasn't disappointed, this is one funny movie.

Alan Rickman gives a marvelously deadpan performance as the larger than life John Gissing, a man coming rapidly unglued at the thought of being replaced by Barnes after 15 years on the job. And even though he�s clearly only a stiff upper lip away from having a nervous breakdown we still somehow like him enough to cheer him on when he finally exacts revenge on neurotic company chairman Francois Fuller, played by Allan Corduner.

Magda
don't worry, I'm on my lunch hour, Canada - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:14:42 (PDT)

Some more "Love Actually" news. According to The Telegraph, September 5, 2002, article by Hugh Davies:

Heike Makatsch, the German actress who plays a character called Mia, said the film was "about love, mainly in London, around Christmas".

Makatsch was yesterday at the Venice Film Festival promoting her latest production....She said of her next role: "My story involves Alan Rickman. That's all I can say. But I am looking forward to meeting him."
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:06:12 (PDT)

It looks like Stezi will have a very good Christmas in 2003. According to the IMDB site, "Love Actually" will be released in the Netherlands on December 11, 2003. I'm sure she won't mind sharing with those of you who can drive or fly there to see it too.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 10:02:57 (PDT)

Don't get feisty, Fausta - being called Mr Rickman in a situation where everyone else calls him Alan just irritates him, that's all.
JD
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 09:36:23 (PDT)

mortianna: I�ve got my mail back. Sorry. I�ll try again.
verena
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 09:02:08 (PDT)

It�s been a long time since I�ve visited here. I got a little TOO attached to the guestbook, and as my only internet connection was here at work, the time I spent lurking or corresponding (or taking advantage of links or audio/video files donated by kindly habitu�s) was neither fair nor just to my employer. It was hard to give it up, harder still to just occasionally visit.

I do not wish to upset anybody by speaking for a moment about a topic other than the one for which this guestbook is intended. But I remember exactly one year ago that many of us met here not to share our love for the work of The Voice, but to be a community together, and to help each other get through a truly horrific day. Some of us had better access to information than others, and were able to pass it on. We did head counts to make sure everyone was okay, and I remember concern over one guestbook denizen who worked near ground zero. I remeber too the relief when she was able to check in finally and tell her story.

I remember the kind words and prayers from people outside the United States - healing words, healing prayers. I think that to some extent the guestbook fans always feel like a sort of family, but on that day, we WERE a family. So one year later I�m just peeking in to say hello, to say I�ve missed you, and to say that you remain in my heart and mind. I give myself permission to lurk today, just a little bit! And my very best hopes and wishes go out to you all.

I now return you to your regularly scheduled Rickman fest!
Mary from McHenry <mkeith@mccdistrict.orgfoo>
McHenry, Il - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 08:50:23 (PDT)

Thanks,Mortianna for asking AR about coming to Australia. It was worth a try, Hey? O/t, to all our GB'ers from NY, keep smiling today - you are in our thoughts. Gee I hope AR's voice gets better!! Thanks Georgiana.
Barbara the Aussie <hermione(underscore )3@hotmail.comfoo>
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 07:22:13 (PDT)

Re: Mr. Rickman
In polite society, when one speaks to any adult male that is not a close acquaintance, the appropriate form of address is Mr..
Just because you are a fan and have fooled yourself into thinking you know a celebrity, that does not make you a close acquaintance of that person. So, PLEASE, when addressing AR, or anyone in the spotlight, do by all means use Mr. (or Ms, if to a lady).
Civility works best. The rest is nonsense.

On a different subject, TSFJGissing doesn't have a distributor yet.
Fausta
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 06:33:58 (PDT)

Thanks for all the reassuring comments on the state of Alan's health and voice. Yet I cannot shake the spectre of permanent damage to those magnificent vocal chords. My head tells me that he has certainly had to deal with vocal strain in the past, but my heart still nags me with the idea that this time it is different. It is irrational, I know, and I pray I am wrong. Perhaps I am just being a little sensitive to injury this week. I remember thinking how different his voice sounded at times during the August performances of PL I attended--there were tatters evident in the silk even then, and he was forcing out some gravelly sounds that were not easy to listen to. I thought (hoped) it was a temporary thing, and I did notice a little improvement with each subsequent performance, but there was still something not quite right there...

I will have a conversation with my heart at once and tell it to stop having these gloomy thoughts!

On another note, I am surprised to learn that Alan and Lindsay are still in New York. I find it touching to think that they might be taking part in some of the activities going on today in the city.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 05:07:46 (PDT)

Maxine and Magda (Hu)--I am very sorry for your disappointment. From what I have read here and in some of the yahoo groups--it may take numerous attempts to recieve a reply from The Man himself.

Magda (Hu)--I am very curious as to what was said in the "not so polite" letter. Would you mind sharing? If not, I absolutely understand. But I do find it hard to believe that The Man would "dislike" any group of people strictly because of their ethnicity.
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 04:51:53 (PDT)

The Alexander Technique is a method which helps a person discover a new balance in the body by releasing unnecessary tension. It can be applied to sitting, lying down, standing, walking, lifting, and other daily activities..."

Oh heck, then I've heard of that. We didn't call it anything fancy like The Alexander Technique, we just called it...well, nothing I can print here but it doesn't make you go blind and is great for releasing tension. I didn't know there was a school where you could study it, or that it was of particular use to actors but you learn something new every day! ;-)
Cyndi
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 04:46:27 (PDT)

MAXINE (Toronto), don't worry! A mass of us got answers like yours, from his agent, but not so polite like your one was! Neither of us in Hungary didn't get photo from him (perhaps he hate Hungarians since Mesmer, was shooted in Hungary...) "...no more photo, no more time..." etc. They will be surpriced when AR's late fans will go to see the next HP film - for Richard Harris...
Magda (Hu)
Hungary, - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 04:08:42 (PDT)

Gosh wow, more Alan Rickman that one can shake a stick at! Oh sorry hello e/one. It was intesresting to note that s/one said many of AR's fans are in their forties however his fans who love him in Harry Potter and are in newsgroups concerning hte Potions Master tends to be in their late teens and early twenties.(Myself i am 18 on saturday) Anyway i am at home ill and i'm going to watch Dogma(again).*cough splutter blows nose*
Rose Snape <epansesor@yahoo.defoo>
Plymouth, England - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 03:59:02 (PDT)

I just received a letter from Melanie Parker (A.R.'s agent in England) a second time thanking me for my letter and artwork to A.R., but apologized that an autograph/reply from him is not possible because of his busy schedule. This time she added that "A.R.'s schedule has very little spare time for anything and that as soon as he returns from U.S.A. he will start filming immediately on his new project. He also has a mass of outstanding correspondence". Well, to me it sounds like he is a true workaholic. I am disappointed and may not visit this site as much. Good luck to anyone trying to get an autograph or reply from A.R. Maxine
Maxine
Toronto, Canada - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 01:43:02 (PDT)

"The Alexander Technique is a method that works to change (movement) habits in our everyday activities. It is a simple and practical method for improving ease and freedom of movement, balance, support and coordination. The technique teaches the use of the appropriate amount of effort for a particular activity, giving you more energy for all your activities. It is not a series of treatments or exercises, but rather a reeducation of the mind and body. The Alexander Technique is a method which helps a person discover a new balance in the body by releasing unnecessary tension. It can be applied to sitting, lying down, standing, walking, lifting, and other daily activities..."
Desdemona The Gypsy Queen of New Orleans
USA - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 01:23:40 (PDT)

While strolling around the internet I came across this from the "Actors Studio Drama School" located in NYC:

Tom Vasiliades trained and certified at the American Center for the Alexander Technique in New York City. After graduating from the American Center, he continued training in New York and London. He did post-graduate work with Barbara Kent, Glynn MacDonald, John Nicholls, Peggy Williams, and Walter Carrington, who carried on the Training course after F.M. Alexander's death. Mr. Vasiliades is currently on the faculty at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts and The Julliard School; he also maintains a private practice. He is the former Chairman of the Board of Directors and President of the American Center for the Alexander Technique. Since the late 1970's, he has acted at regional theaters and in New York, including the Ensemble Studio Theatre's Marathon Series and The New Plays Series at Playwrights Horizons. He has produced two plays in New York, "The Sin Eaters," and "Triptych." Most recently, he has taught the Alexander Technique to members of the Broadway cast of "Private Lives," including ALAN RICKMAN and LINDSAY DUNCAN.

Are any GBers familiar with the "Alexander Technique"? What is it, and how is it helpful for actors?
Mesmer's Patient
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 23:33:08 (PDT)

My apologies - I just read the update by Georgiana. Seems like she has answered the question about AR's state of health.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 23:04:24 (PDT)

Ali-Pat - maybe Georgiana can enlighten us as to the most up to date state of AR's health, but as far as I know, the comments about AR having a cold were spilled into the email chatlists about 2 weeks ago. One would imagine that he has recovered by now! And never fear, one diehard NY AR fan (who no longer frequents the GB because of some of the reasons given below in "old' vs 'new' GB), certainly made sure that AR was well looked after with the generous gesture of a basket of home remedies for fighting colds...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 23:02:24 (PDT)

It's not uncommon for actors to strain their voices. I'm sure it's not the first time it's happened to Alan. If it is, I'm sure it's not a surprise to him. Everyone gets the flu sometimes. He has a significant other, family and friends, access to the best medical care and great financial resources. He also obviously knows how to take care of himself. He will be fine.
Vera
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 22:55:29 (PDT)

Georgiana, Thanks for sharing that great story. Sounds like a wonderful event. Glad to know Alan is still in NYC (even for a little bit before he starts filming Love Actually). Is there a website for the organization that sponsored the event? Thanks.
Ellen
New York, NY, - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 21:57:41 (PDT)

JD, how do you know it irritates him to be called 'Mr. Rickman'?
Vera
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 18:49:41 (PDT)

Georgiana, thank you for that tantalizing "insider's" report! You are a very lucky gal, and you are kind to share your blessings.

I am concerned to know, however, that the beloved voice is in need of professional healing. I don't know what concerns me most--the reports of Alan having the flu or this most recent report of him suffering from vocal strain. I just hate think of him being unwell, especially since he has given so much of himself to us, both on and off the stage. I hope he recovers soon and is not off live theater forever because of overdoing it on this last outing.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 18:40:23 (PDT)

If somebody is familiar with Alan's association with "Actors From The London Stage" please mail me.
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 18:17:33 (PDT)

... ahh yes,in control, dark and swarthy with a sadistic streak. oh, how the mind reels!
aphie
modesto, ca usa - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 17:32:10 (PDT)

Oh Georgiana! Thank you for sharing your experience with us! And you also answered the question many of us have had the past week: he IS still in New York. BTW, was the press present? Do you know if any newspaper or magazine articles will be published that we can look for? Thanks again to our WA correspondent! :)
Deborah
AZ USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 16:28:32 (PDT)

just curious if john gissing has a distributor yet?
trudy
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 16:25:59 (PDT)

OK, JD....Jealous! (just kidding!!) Just imagine how irritated he'd probably be to be addressed as "The Man". I can just see that brow arch right up over his hairline (tee hee and what a wonderful hairline he has!)
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 14:51:30 (PDT)

Georgiana wrote the article just for us. Wasn't it fantastic of her to share?
It was good of her to bless us, certainly. 'Fantastic' - I'm not so sure.
It might be worth noting that the 'Mr Rickman' thing irritates the hell out of him.
Go on - call me jealous.
JD
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 14:40:31 (PDT)

After more careful reading, I see that Georgiana you must have paid the 500 bucks. Did you introduce yourself to 'Mr. Rickman'? Or does he already know you? Very exciting! I think it's better not to announce to everyone "more to friends later' because it's like bringing a cake to a party and sitting it down in the middle of a table and saying, 'this is just for my friends.' It might make the rest of us feel bad. Anyway, congratulations, it must have been thrilling!
Stacie
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 14:31:27 (PDT)

Thank you, and yes. But, Georgiana, how did you get to go to this event? I'm relatively new here, so maybe you all know something I don't. Please explain!
Stacie
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 14:03:56 (PDT)

Hey Stacie--Georgiana wrote the article just for us. Wasn't it fantastic of her to share?
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 13:31:04 (PDT)

Georgiana, did you write that yourself, or is that the reprint of an article from somewhere else?
Stacie
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 13:13:41 (PDT)

Lelefua once explained the appeal and mystery of Snape. I think it applies to the Sheriff on Nottingham as well. She said his long hair, and flowing robe/cape were feminine elements. His strong facial features and voice are masculine, and he is male. We don't know if his intentions are evil or good, if he's protective or a threat. There's a lot of yin and yang, plus a strong sexual aura. There are similiarities in RHPOT. The Sheriff is extremely masculine in many ways and again we have the long, feminine hair. AR brought a 'camp' element to the role. His physical movements, especially during the last sword fight, are masculine, fluid and beautiful, and the campiness at times borders on 'swishy'. The Sheriff and Snape both have a great deal of power over others, as well as a sadistic streak.
Vera
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 13:02:46 (PDT)

What do you mean by *knee-jerk*? Instant? Without thought? I always say the same thing about being fair, kind, etc. I know when I come here I'm going to see mostly nice stuff from the majority of people and the usual negative, smart alecky crap from one or two of the same people. So I'm always prepared to reply. It seems okay to allow certain comments made by certain inhabitants of the inner sanctum to slide, but every time someone else who is not a part of the Illuminati says something the former find tedious, OT, etc. it's spat upon. So if my constant reaction to THAT behavior is *knee jerk*, so be it. If we need to take this to e-mail, we can. lmhpr00@knology.net However, since I'm sure to get yet another wasted space sentence, i.e. "Why are you all arguing here? This is a GB for fans of Alan Rickman." I'll respond to that too. :~}
Harlii
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 12:36:59 (PDT)

Harlii, thanks but no thanks. If I can't fight my own battles and deal with the consequences, then I had better learn pretty darn quick. It would be more meaningful if it wasn't so "knee jerk" don't you think?
a concerned citizen
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 11:49:05 (PDT)

Georgiana....you go girl! Awesome!!!!
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 11:15:13 (PDT)

I just posted a few words on the News page about "a conversation with Alan Rickman and Lindsay Duncan" held last night in midtown Manhattan, hosted by the American Friends of the Royal Court Theatre.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
New York - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 11:10:01 (PDT)

Claudia and Marialis: Thank you! I learned a new word. Yay!
Sabine
GA USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 09:51:50 (PDT)

How often do you all watch your AR-related videos or read the scripts, etc.? I've found that when I first hit the BIG fanaticism for him (right before my surgery in April), I watched everything SEVERAL times a week...since I've returned from NY, I haven't really watched too much...I've spent quite a bit on photos at eBay with the intent of having all my NY autographed things beautifully framed alongside the the eBay photos, but...anyway, I was just wondering if when you reach for a video on the weekend, how often do you pull back your hand and an AR flick is in it? For myself, I'd say as of today, 25% of the time, yet I'm still fascinated by reading about him here and elsewhere.
Harlii
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 09:41:06 (PDT)

Hey Sabine!--Manichean: A believer in Manichaeism

Manichaean: A believer in the doctrines of Manes, a Persian of the third century A. D., who taught a dualism in which Light is regarded as the source of Good, and Darkness as the source of Evil.

Just my humble opionion but I think I would have looked in my thesaurus for a much easier word to type....LOL

You have an IM
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 09:30:45 (PDT)

If "manichean" means the same thing than in france, it means that you've got good people or feelings on a side and bad, villains... on the other side.... Black and white (but without any idea of racism in this !)... not grey. Hope you understand me; I could have wait for somebody else to help you with better words ... but it is the first time I could be helpful here... ! I have asked and have been answered so many times ... Wow ! Thanks Sabine for asking that !
marialis
France - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 09:30:12 (PDT)

What does "manichean" mean? I couldn't find it in the dictionary. :-(
Sabine <A confused Legal Alienfoo>
GA USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 09:14:17 (PDT)

Why thank ya Ed...errr..I mean Edward. (grin)

Tami--my hat is off to you and anyone that can travel alone to another country. That takes courage and spunk....all of which I aspire to have one day! LOL
Claudia
an equally hot and sunny, GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 08:54:32 (PDT)

Marialis, thank you for your kind words. I really needed that today! Mortianna, I loved your posts about New York. It reminds me of the first time I flew to Europe by myself... to Cologne, Germany and I stayed in a quaint little hotel on the Rhein river in the Altstadt. It was an awfully big adventure, and I did it all for a band and some concerts. But I learned so much and met some new friends, and proved to myself that I could do anything I set my mind to. I returned to Europe 3 more times after that with no worries. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing! I'm glad you had a great time in New York.
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 08:50:11 (PDT)

Claudia- you go, girl! (from your e-mate.) As someone who's done extensive reading of the archives, I've found that the "old" GB was indeed a low-traffic, entertaining, and informative forum. (Though it was not without occasional snarkiness.) I think it was during the "middle ages" that things started to go seriously awry- perhaps the sheer mass of those of us who jumped on the AR bandwagon because of HP tried both the limited bandwidth and the even more limited patience of certain established GB denizens. The "new" GB seems to have stretched to accomodate the latecomers to the AR scene, and it is, once again, a safe enough place to post the occasional semi-gushing, ever-so-slightly off-topic thought without risking too much of a drubbing. (Though SOME people appear always to have awoken on the wrong side of the bed.)
Edward Bellamy
hot&sunny, CA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 08:18:39 (PDT)

And the winner of the word of the day is Magda! Gee thanks for exercising my mind today!

Yes, I highly recommend that everyone read the archives and the rest of Suzanne's very informative site.

As for my "manichean" distinction of the GB. My statement was not intended to insult the "old" GB for I have read this GB for a long time...long before I ever started posting. My statement was only intended to assure Jules that it seemed we had loosened up just a bit here in recent months.

And I do feel very sad for the person that actually is fond of seeing the ridiculing tripe that used to be posted from time to time.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 06:44:45 (PDT)

Dear *A Concerned Citizen*: I am a Caped Crusader. It bothers me when ANYONE is wrongfully or spitefully attacked. If your turn should come, I will defend you as well. If you consider it me carrying something on, so be it. I cannot sit idly by and let certain comments and assumptions, which are incorrect, go by. That's who I am and I'm not going anywhere.

I fight for freedom everywhere.
Harlii
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 06:15:39 (PDT)

Anyone wishing to read through the archives of the GB would be well rewarded (see link at the top of the page). Many of the articles and reviews that describe AR performances had their first posting on the GB as did many of the photos that now adorn numerous sites. Readers will also see that newcomers were a constant occurence and were welcomed with open arms, invited to partake in the discussions and express their views. An objective reader will easily determine that there was no humiliation or condescension, albeit some highly sensitive posters maintained the opposite.

The point I was making in response to Claudia's dismissive comment on the old GB is that it was a grand place. Her manichean distinction between the old and the new was not intended to flatter the old GB and I felt it was time to put in a word for the old place. Many of us were quite fond of it.
Magda
Canada - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 05:50:15 (PDT)

To save a little confusion, I thought I would butt in again. Like I said earlier this month...that is what I do best...LOL

The "Jacques Roux" piece that Alice is referring to is "Revolutionary Witness--The Preacher" and although Roux's dog is present, I don't think he was preaching to his dog. This piece is absolutely wonderful! But as a dear e-mate of mine has inferred.....for the price of the video...AR should have been in the buff (just a little humor here....please no tomatos or gawd forbid rocks!)
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 05:01:14 (PDT)

Mortianna, What a great writer you are. I must say that, seen from the 2nd row, AR's way with his mouth ...scowl? smirk? ....speaks tons of words in itself. And the way he so gentlemanly, held the door open as others exited stage left was so debonair. But he looked so ill, so exhausted. Even outside, he seemed so weary, but soldiering on, signing all our programs and those GREAT POSTERS. Where do you get them? the PL posters I saw so many fans with at the stage door? The touch of him hearing there was a girl in a wheelchair and marching out to sign her program was inspired!!! He had them turn her wheel chair around for a picture, it slid backwards down into the curb and she almost fell out. I talked with her mother later, and she was so happy...that was a thrill she will never forget. Now I'm sorry I didn't do the 'Stage Door Juanita" scene in London when he did Antony and Cleopatra. Having all his movies, even 'Jacques Roux' the one where the priest preaches to his dog, I could not have been more surprised at his LACK of stage presence in that one....compared to "PL". It was day and night. Does anyone know what was going on with A&C? His professionalism, and excellent acting in both stage and movies, I can now attest to. So that makes A&C even more surprising. I know I may have commmitted blasphemy on this site for being disappointed in his acting that one time, but I think you're mature enough to handle the fact that he's not always perfect. Alice
Alice <alicecbrown@yahoo.comfoo>
Cantonf, Ma USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 04:48:32 (PDT)

As Mr. Rickman is obviously a person who is generous of his time and money in making the world a better place, I think he would be most happy if this GB reflected his benevolent spirit.

Well said, M.P. I second that notion and add "Let's have have some fun while doing it!"

BTW, be sure to tell the Doc I said hello and I'll give Jaime a great big "ole" kiss for you...no lip warming necessary! LOL
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 03:37:51 (PDT)

Thank you, Claudia, for the explanation about the GB. I am most appreciative.

Also, Mortianna, I loved the retelling of your NYC experiences with AR. ALL OF IT! You flew a long way to pay homage to Mr. Rickman, and you more than deserved the extra bandwidth utilized. Afterall, I know I come to this GB primarily to get information about THE MAN. I've relished even the minute descriptions of his bowling shoes!

As Mr. Rickman is obviously a person who is generous of his time and money in making the world a better place, I think he would be most happy if this GB reflected his benevolent spirit.

I must away....doctor's appointment.....
Mesmer's Patient
- Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 03:29:29 (PDT)

Jody-"Spirit of Man" and "Pity in History" were British television series (how or do you pluralize series??? LOL knew I should have majored in English!). Someone, please correct me if I am wrong on the British part.

In the "Spirit of Man", the episode that The Man appeared in was "From Sleep and Shadow". Nice little piece and a tiny spoiler here......(tee hee)You get a table dance from The Man in this one. Maybe not the kind you have in mind at this moment...but a table dance nonetheless. LOL

"Pity in History" I don't know much about.

Magda, Canada-Yes the GB of old was full of information, opinions, and comments as is today's GB. But in the old days...along with the info, opinions, and comments the reader/poster was also subjected to condescention, humiliation, and downright meanness from a select few "hoity toity" (you know who--thank you for that term) posters.

Mesmer's Patient (BTW...love that name!) It is hard to pinpoint when the the GB turned a new leaf but I would guess it was around April or May of this year. I really have enjoyed the GB in recent months...it is so nice to see people be nice to each other for a change...especially with all the nastiness that is going on in the world today.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 02:18:41 (PDT)

I haven�t been here for 10 days , so I�m late to thank Cynthia and Lisa for their answers about O�Brien show.

GML, I�m glad that French republican ideas are still in your mind even if you live in England. Have you already picked out one or two heads we could cut off�? LOL

Mortianna, I love your report. Sure you�re in his mind now. But you could have done better. You could have asked �And the moon ?� instead of �And Australia ?��!LOL

About Alan�s feminine side. I think you�re on old stereotypes. I don�t think sensibility and courtesy are girl�s privileges. I don�t find anything effeminate in his manners. I find him totally masculine !

About kisses. Obviously it isn�t a lack of sensuality of AR� but a lack of imagination of producers and film makers ! If I�m asked, I could invent a thousand stories in which Alan would kiss torridly� and more ? But really we can�t interpret those scenes and try to definite his personality from them� Because he does what he�s told.

I think one of his most sensual performance is in In Demand� Short but good� Do you think it is this way he makes love � �short but good �?

Tammi, one of your last posts moved me. I hope some day you could say like Nina �It�s life that I want�. I understand that you �ve got lots of love to give and it�s comfortable to give it to a perfect image. But life is all around you and living in dreams is a way to protect yourself. I think it�s good as long as you need it. But some day, I�m sure you will be ready to come back in real life. You know perfect persons don�t exist on this earth but there are lots of persons perfect for someone else. I�m sure there is somewhere someone�s perfect for you.
Marialis
France - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 02:12:59 (PDT)

For all german fans AR on TV:

Samstag, 14. September 2002
20.15-22.10 RTL2
Im Zeichen der Jungfrau (Top-Tipp)
Kriminalfilm, USA, 1988, 94 min, FSK 16

Sonntag, 15. September 2002
2.00-3.45 RTL2
Im Zeichen der Jungfrau (Top-Tipp)
Kriminalfilm, USA, 1988, 94 min, FSK 16

Montag, 16. September 2002
20.15-23.00 Kabel 1
Sinn und Sinnlichkeit (Top-Tipp)
Literaturverfilmung, USA, 1995, 131 min, FSK 6

lelefua
stuttgart, germany - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 02:09:33 (PDT)

trent reznor is the singer/song writer from "nine inch nails". he is a very talented man in his own right and i can see how to the untrained eye he could be mistaken for professor snape. it's just that the similarities stop with the fact that both of their last names begin with the letter r.
aphie
modesto, ca usa - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 22:34:11 (PDT)

Mortianna---what a gutsy girl you are, flying in from Germany just to see his play. I live in the same country here but couldn't haul myself to NYC. Just reading your accout put a smile on my face. So glad you enjoyed the visit, and loved your audacity to ask him such a Q. Thanks for the report.

Kristin---welcome to the GB, and your English is just fine. It amazes me how all these people I meet on the net that learned English as 2nd (or 3rd) language seems to be much better at it than native speakers. Mind you, my 1st language IS Eng, so I'm not criticizing "others." Assuming that you actually typed in the entry w/o using a translator, your Eng is just perfect.

Someone mentioned few days agos about a special sneak preview of HP movie on the WB network. I've been told by my friend (I don't watch TV regularly) that such sneak preview will be shown during the premiere of new sitcom "Family Affairs," this Thursday at 9pm. Check your tvguide or the papers to make sure it's at 9, bec' time changes from locale to locale.

Harlii's last entry made me think-the very first time I posted here, someone who read the entry sent me an e-mail, giving a very friendly heads-up that I be careful w/ incessant drooling over his work, as I run the high risk of getting flamed. (Thankfully, I didn't get any flames.)

Though I don't post often, I am extremely careful in my wordings and such, in part bec' I don't enjoy flames, but also bec' I do realize that written words are much more likely to be misunderstood than if I was talking to a real, live, human being. (Esp. sarcasm)

I don't point fingers at NOBODY, bec' to be quite honest, I don't know where to point my finger at. BUT, please everyone, just be a bit more considerate in what you type, and no one be so quick to jump to any hasty conclusions. Alright, take away the apple carts, don't know where *those* came from. *g*

Harlii---I've printed out your list, so that I can check off each one after I searched 'em down and devoured 'em whole. But one Q: what's "Spirit of Man" and "Pity in History"? All the other ones sound semi-familiar. (Rasputin sounds *very* familiar; my VHS copy isn't standing quite well enough to repeated viewings as I had hoped, LOL)

Aphie-I have to ask-who is Trent Reznor?
jody
CA USA - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 22:12:45 (PDT)

Hey, thanks Harlii re info about Rima..glad to hear AR doesn't smoke..by the way if I could add something with no malice intended: I think it is a bit inappropriate to flood this site with multi paragraphs about ones life. We are here to praise AR..not to bury him.
Charlotte
Los Angeles, - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 22:00:36 (PDT)

Harlii, just let it go-sometimes you act like the caped crusader. It takes two to tango, and somehow you are mostly always one of the dancers.
a concerned citizen
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 21:49:19 (PDT)

And "yada, yada, yada" is like "blah, blah, blah", I'm guessing. I don't watch TV. Everyone starting saying "yada, yada, yada" all of a sudden and from reading magazines I surmised it came from Seinfeld. I've lived in the U.S. all my life and I'd never heard that expression before that show. Rhubarb, etc. is harder to say than whatever you're leaving out! But, that's a cool thing to learn today. Another fascinating thing, I'd never thought of our highly doctored teeth as having a depressing similiarity and uniformity. I love AR's teeth, and it's true, if he'd been raised here he would not have made it through childhood with those teeth. They would have been straightened, filed and pulled. I love his smile. In Harry Potter, when Snape is chanting that spell during the Quidditch game, I couldn't stop staring at his lower front teeth. They fascinated me, ( I couldn't figure them out, they were as mysterious as Snape.) Jules, you gave me a whole new perspective. And I caught the tomato.
Staciepoppet
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 21:48:14 (PDT)

Jules! That was the GB of old. In recent months, we seemed to have grown a sense of humor. Besides, your adding "Catch" kind of gave it away. LOL Claudia GA US - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 15:21:19 (PDT)
Just fyi, Claudia, the GB of old was a great place to exchange information about AR and share opinions and comments. The new GB is - well, new. Magda Canada - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 16:48:45 (PDT)
Magda: When did the GB change from old to new? Just curious....... Mesmer's Patient - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 16:59:50 (PDT)
MP: I don't know. Ask Claudia from Georgia; she seems to know. Magda Canada - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 17:05:25 (PDT)

I believe your comment is typical of what Claudia is referring to Magda. Of late, instead of seeing snarky comments like yours peppering the GB, people have been kinder, more tolerant, and less exclusive/snobby when it comes to who posts here and how. But of course, as usual, your unnecessarily rude comments have ruined that image. There is no reason for the sarcastic comment you made. Claudia was giving this GB a compliment. She spoke too soon.
Harlii
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 20:22:10 (PDT)

Oh Dear Mortianna! What a story!I have just printed it out to keep in my box You never fail to amaze me!How I wish I could have been there with you but thank you so much for the toast. I must say that on that final day, my heart and thoughts were at the Richard Rodger's theatre and I remember looking at the clock and thinking about the Stage door and wondering if you had made it and if you got to meet AR afterall. I figured he would be so impressed by you! LOL... I quess it is hard to impress that man! Well, thank you again for sharing your story with all of us here and please...send ME some pics, you know where I live (in cyberspace).

Oh....by the way; the mail man was kind to me today and brought me two signed photos I had requested, one for me and one for a very lucky Aussie !;~) The man is a gem! We will miss him. SIGH!
Constance
Cary, NC USA - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 19:35:08 (PDT)

Ali-Pat,

Thanks, yeah, the "Y" was a bit of what I was pushing at, just a little distracted while I was typing the message. LoL
Jayne Claire
AL - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 18:30:14 (PDT)

ANOTHER GREAT BIG DKH SPOILER:

Brit and Jayne Claire, the clue is the gigantic "Y" on the young man's sweater. In her dream, Alexis is mixing up her "Yalie" from the past with the mysterious young man of the present.

Gotta love those boots, though. (Danger! Danger! Seventies flashback!!!)
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 17:51:20 (PDT)

MP: I don't know. Ask Claudia from Georgia; she seems to know.
Magda
Canada - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 17:05:25 (PDT)

Magda: When did the GB change from old to new? Just curious.......
Mesmer's Patient
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 16:59:50 (PDT)

Mortianna, incredible post(s)!!! I enjoyed reading them very much! I do admit, you kind of put my story of "Running away from College just to see Alan Rickman AND the play Private Lives" away by the "Flying from Germany", so there I find myself a bit envious. But more enjoyment in the fact that you had an incredible time.

Brit, DARK HARBOR SPOILERS! TURN YOUR HEADS! Her dream reflects a bit about what she says the next morning at breakfast about the man she met at Yale (I think) before she met David. Hope that helps...

Lee, I think you're the one who made the point about the young man being an image of a younger David. My vision is that he's the complete opposite of David. David we see as a Yale graduate and a very successful lawyer while this young man is first seen passing out on the side of the road, no job, no home, no means of living. When I see the young man, I see the opposite of David. BTW, did you get my e-mail?
Jayne Claire
AL - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 16:58:16 (PDT)

.... we were watching t.v. when a commercial for harry potter came on. they flashed a picture of snape on the screen during the promo and my boyfriend said " i didn't know trent reznor was in that movie". he was completely serious.
aphie <bonzaiaphrodite@aol.comfoo>
modest, ca usa - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 16:57:34 (PDT)

Just fyi, Claudia, the GB of old was a great place to exchange information about AR and share opinions and comments. The new GB is - well, new.
Magda
Canada - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 16:48:45 (PDT)

Stacie: I know you addressed this question to Mortianna but I hope you don't mind that I answer it. "Rhubarb, rhubarb, rhubarb" is sort of the German equivalent of "yada, yada, yada."

Hope this helps!
Sabine
GA USA - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 16:48:22 (PDT)

Lee, your comment about the young man in Dark Harbor seems worthy of some speculation. Since I don't own the DVD I haven't seen it in about a month (dear me, how did I go so long!)and I'll have to go rent it again and watch it with your perception/speculation in mind. Thanks. Geez something to think about! There is something I have been curious about though. SPOILER FOR DARK HARBOR! I've always wondered what Alexis's dream was all about when the young man told her that she knew who he was and revealed the sweater with the letter on it. I know this has probably been gone over lots before but just in case it hasn't I was curious if anybody knows anything about this or has a take on it.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Missouri USA - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 15:51:01 (PDT)

Jules! That was the GB of old. In recent months, we seemed to have grown a sense of humor. Besides, your adding "Catch" kind of gave it away. LOL
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 15:21:19 (PDT)

Oh good grief. Having read my post, and knowing the GB of old - I can imagine the 'but she was only joking!' posts...
I KNOW she was only joking, OK??? So was I! OK????
Sheesh!
Jules
UK - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 15:11:52 (PDT)

I bet food gets caught in there, and being British, (here come the flying tomatoes!), he probably doesn't brush very carefully.
I see racism is rampant in the GB.
The American fetish for orthodontistry has been alive and well in England for a few years now, so, sadly, most teenagers' teeth reflect a depressing uniformity and similarity.
Crooked doesn't mean dirty, Staciepoppet!
Oh - here's a tomato! Catch!
Jules
UK - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 15:07:02 (PDT)

Just a little tidbit of info that made me smile at work today. I had to type a memo to a *Professor Rickman* today. It was a pleasure on two levels. Firstly, seeing the very scarce (in these parts) name "Rickman" and secondly, the *professor* part, in my mind "SNAPE". Anyway, I thought it was cool. I know I'm easily amused, so I'll just scoot along now.
Harlii
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 13:51:24 (PDT)

Darf ich sagen, "Willkommen, Kristin!"
Lee
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 12:54:15 (PDT)

POSSIBLE "DARK HARBOR" SPOILERS: I haven't seen the beginning of Dark Harbor so don't really know, but do any of you think that the young man might represent a younger David, or maybe an alter-ego, instead of being meant to be an actual person? I just got that idea listening to David telling the young man that he doesn't remind David of himself exactly, and yet . . .
Lee
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 12:52:35 (PDT)

Hi, everybody! I just wanted to say that I really like this page ( I have already been a kind of voyeur for some weeks and never had the guts to add something), I have read nearly the whole archives to keep up with You, for i`ve been an Alan Rickman fan for only six months or so. So best wishes to You all, and please forgive my awkward English !
Kristin <KOBkristinBo@aol.comfoo>
Koblenz, Germany - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 12:18:34 (PDT)

I FINALLY got to see "Dark Harbor"! Woke up before dawn on Sunday and couldn't figure out why until, channel surfing, I got to HBO2 and saw AR in a scene from a film I'd never seen before. Figured out it must be DH and it was. It is scheduled to be on HBO2 again tomorrow (Tuesday) at around 3 or 3:30 pm EST. I don't want to put in any SPOILERS but beware: I have to say, Cute, Very nice indeed, and Pierce Brosnan can't compare.
Lee
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 10:57:05 (PDT)

Mortianna: Fantastisch, wunderbar, grandios, super, toll, spitze, cool, mega oschi geil !!! : )

Besides,you�ve got mail ...
verena <why must I be a teenager in love?? ; )foo>
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 10:55:49 (PDT)

Mortianna: Fantastisch, wunderbar, grandios, super, toll, spitze, cool, mega oschi geil !!! : )

Besides,you�ve got mail ...
verena <why must I be a teenager in love?? ; )foo>
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 10:47:58 (PDT)

Wait, if there was cream cheese, lox, onion, and tomato on that bagel then you got a bargain. Stacie, The Trivial Detail Lady now signing off for the day.
Stacie
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 10:00:11 (PDT)

OT: I just wanted to convey my condolences and prayers to those of us here in the U.S. and abroad who lost friends and loved ones on September 11. God bless.
Melissa
NJ, USA - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:56:45 (PDT)

Jaime, 7 years? I thought I might be able to help, but this is more serious than I thought. Maybe you could dwell on some negative traits of Alan's. You know that miniature tooth in front of his lower teeth? I bet food gets caught in there, and being British, (here come the flying tomatoes!), he probably doesn't brush very carefully. Imagine the food slowly rotting...dwell on that for 5 minutes a session, 6 times a day, and get back to me. Mortianna, what does rhubarb, rhubarb, rhubarb mean?
Stacie
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:56:13 (PDT)

Hey Harlii--sorry to butt in but (that's what I do best ;-)) The Man's list of work that Suzanne (thanks Suzanne) has so diligently kept current is on the home page.
Claudia (whose butting out now)
GA US - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:49:54 (PDT)

Correction *that says*
MP
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:45:18 (PDT)

Oops! Sorry there, Harlii. Forget about the FAQ! Go to the Home Page of this Guest Book and click on the button that say RESUME. Arrow down past the Stage Work and there you should see TELEVISON, RADIO, MISC. Good Luck!!
Mesmer's Patient
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:43:52 (PDT)

Okay Stacie. :~} Mesmer's Patient? Are we reading the same FAQ? Maybe you could copy and paste it for me as I just looked and don't see all of the items I listed. Also, I just wanted to clarify that as most of us were already familiar with AR's films, the others I wouldn't even know to look for in the FAQ or anywhere else. Anyway, I sure didn't see that whole list unless there's another couple of links to click on FROM the FAQ itself. Puzzlement.
Harlii
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:39:15 (PDT)

Harlii, I am in the process of having my e-mail address changed. I don't want to use the old one anymore. I am computer illiterate, so when my friend had a chance to show me how to change it, I will e-mail you. Mortianna, I love reading your account of New York. Two cups of tea later, and there's still more to go...excellent! When were you in California, was this part of the same trip? (You mention the large portions of Mexican food.) I believe you must have been in some tourist trap deli to pay five dollars for a bagel in New York. I don't believe that's the going rate for bagels in the Big Apple. You were so brave to attempt a conversation with Alan! It's funny to read what you were implying by saying 'boyfriend'' and 'brother'. I know you know he didn't have a clue what the significance of it all was. It makes it very comical. Thank you, it's fun reading!
Stacie
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:28:28 (PDT)

Um, Harlii, excuse me, but if you check the Guest Book "FAQ," you will see all of these programs listed except for the Bruce Willis Tribute.

Suzanne, our ever gracious host, as ensured there shall be no "ignorant" Rickman Fans, at least when it comes to the great one's body of work.
Mesmer's Patient
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:07:28 (PDT)

Hi all. We had a discussion at my board this weekend about AR Films You Still Need to SEE. While almost all of us were familiar with all of his movies, one member posted a list of things she said had appeared on TV and I felt like I must not be a true fan as I didn't even know some of them existed! So I'm going to post that list here just in case there are others who weren't aware of the existence of certain televised shows. It may be possible, with enough searching, to dig them up.

TELEVISED FILMS
Romeo and Juliet
Therese Raquin
Busted
Barchester Chronicles
Smiley's People
Girls on Top: episodes "Four-Play" and "Cancel Toast"
The Preacher
Benefactors
Fallen Angels "Murder, Obliquely"
Rasputin
Eco-Challenge Argentina (narrated)
Babitsky's War (narrated)
Victoria Wood and All the Trimmings
Amnesty International's "We Know Where You Live"
"King of The Hill"
Spirit of Man
Pity in History
Bruce Willis Tribute Dinner

Harlii
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 08:33:37 (PDT)

Well, I expect this was our last PL review then! Sgnnif. (Mortianna's), thanks! (You should see the size of the Mexican meals in California! You can feed 4 normal Germans with one plate, and it still looks like you haven't touched it ;) Uh, I don't know if the cast are back home now, but if they are, I think the weather is trying to say 'welcome back to England' (it's gone all cold and it's p***ing down ;). Aw. Not fair.

GML
UK - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 07:32:37 (PDT)

Mortianna--I am so glad you made it to the play! Thanks for all your great comments and description.

And to Stella 95, whoever you are, thanks for the tip!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 06:26:46 (PDT)

Mortianna, Thanks for sharing your great story!
Ellen
New York, NY - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 06:18:31 (PDT)

Mortianna goes to New York part 3 and end

We spent the next day till the afternoon performance with her, too. It was raining, but that didn't matter. The heavens were friendly enough to stop for the gathering at the stage door, which was fine.

We were there at the last minute, and I was looking for others to meet, as I hadn't got in touch with Anne/Manhattan after sending her a picture of me and my boyfriend. When I went over to a group to say hi to Darlene again, someone said: "That guy looks like Mortianna's boyfriend" and I looked at her and said: "Yes, and I'm Mortianna", and that was Anne. There was a lot of hurly-burly and I don't recollect whom I met before the play or after, but we went up, up, and up to our seats at last.

To say I was disappointed with the seats for 50 bucks each plus the stuff they added for phone orders would be putting it mildly. I would have been devastated had I not seen it the evening before. Well, I apologized to my boyfriend and felt like rather an ass. I could have changed tickets, could I not?

Well, now for the good part. I could see the whole thing from a completely different point of view. Could see the whole awesome choreography of it. And could see, why they all "made faces" from near. It was a very large theatre, and you got a sense of their face contortions at least up there. So it all worked out fine in the end. It was as well psychologically speaking. I disentangled myself more and more from the play, having seen it from first row first, then eleventh row, and last from whatever else. Or so I keep telling myself:-)

Well, Georgiana and Anne said something about the play as a whole. I can only add that I really tried to make the most of it and relish each and every minute. And I think I was quite successful. I even wept nearly in the third scene at Victor's realization that Amanda has never loved him and his trying to come to terms with it. Perhaps I got it confused with PL ending, but it was really heart-breaking.

It ended much too soon, with Alan throwing a kiss to the audience at the very end. I left the theatre dumbfounded and hoped my boyfriend would follow me but I sure didn't look for him. He's grown-up, after all, isn't he?!

The stage door. That was where we all met again. Not together, in a bunch, but in clumps. I saw Anne from afar, with another woman who smiled and nodded at me and who was, as I was to learn later, Ann/New Jersey. I stood with Darlene and Meryl mostly, Heather was somewhere nearby, and I could see my boyfriend, looking like a press photographer, or kind of, and I was a little anxious if Alan wouldn't smell Ebay if he saw him again. But I was prepared to save whoever had to be saved:-)

We waited for an hour or so and nothing happened. Jimmy, the stage door manager, and nearly famous in his own right with all the pictures taken from him, came out and made some fun to cheer us up. I needed a restroom now and went over to the hotel and just guess which moment Alan and Lindsay chose to get out after all? Right! Dead on.

I came back and they were signing. I decided to get another set, you never know when you need it:-) Well, I think I didn't come any closer than the day before. I went away and met Anne again, and then there were Toby and Lyn and the other Ann, and Toby opened the champagne and everybody talked to everybody and everybody photographed everybody, and I went around again to try a different angle and then my film was full and I was quite satisfied as it was, calming down a bit and then Anne asked me if I didn't want my photo taken with him. And that was it with calm and peace and quiet:-)

I got another film of my boyfriend who did a lot of photography himself and gave my camera to Anne. The masses were subsiding a little, or perhaps so it seemed when this sturdy German made her way through the floods to the centre of attention. He was talking with someone else at the moment and I stood my time. Feeling dumb and humiliated and most idiotic indeed, but lively and hilarious and like bouncing around.

I think he realized me standing there, grinning like an idiot (well, I was not that alone in that:-) and I asked him if I could get a picture too. And he nodded and said yes, at least I think he did, and I, not content with just standing close to the man and keeping my big stupid mouth shut, was looking for the cameras, and told him that this time I had brought my boyfriend (read: I'm not a poor little stalker, I have a boyfriend, plus, this guy over there is not going to sell the stuff at Ebay), to which he replied "Good", and acknowledged said boyfriend's presence with a nod in his direction.

I added: "Last time to London I brought my brother" (read: Am I not wonderful to do that to my family and the world economics at large? Have I not deserved your time etc?:-) to which he nodded again, the poor man. Then I went for (Don't we have a splendid discussion here?) and said: "What about Australia?" and grinned like the idiot I am. He looked at me in this special nearly Snape way (yes, exactly that which makes Ron swallow and gulp and so did I, but that never helped to keep my mouth shut) and asked: "Australia?" I was just not saying: "Yes you know, big continent down under, kangaroos and the like", which would well have been consistent with my mood, which I like to blame on the gin tonic, the champagne, a lack of sleep and an altogether too large elation with my own courage.

Instead I went for: "Yes, I never have been to Australia, you could take the play there". See, Sally and Barbara, I tried, I really did!!!

Well, I got another Snape glance as an answer and his voice sounded very earnest and final when he said: "I have been to Australia and I will never do that play again." Perhaps he said "I can't do that play again", be that as it might, I was adequately punished for my audacity again, and walked off not showing it much but somehow that didn't matter. I could laugh about myself which is quite something to be thankful for, under the circumstances.

Some more photographing and drinking and talking took place and it was so much fun. Suddenly Emma and Adam got out too, and drunk as I was with the fun I had, I decided to press some of my thankfulness and good humour on them too. They survived, too. I remember saying my excuses to Adam for going for a photo too, and he was very nice and English about it and he has a way to look into your face so earnestly, that is just well lovely.And those ears!:-)

Emma got my whole exuberance on her head too, and the photo shows her a little dazed, but I was satisfied. I had done a good work as a fan, now I had set my heart to it. They seemed really surprised that someone would fly to London and New York just to see the play, and perhaps it was a nice farewell gesture to them. Or so I hope.

I didn't get to Lindsay, but that is okay. She left in a limo with her son, who was very nice, too, he talking earnestly to some fan or other, she smiling and joking.

Our group took photos again and drank the last champagne and talked their heads off (I guess you can fathom who did a lot of the talking there:-) when Alan left the stage door again and went for his car. He grinned when he saw us and someone shouted that we were celebrating him and he gave a very nice goodbye wave. It's all in the picture and I only discovered when I saw the photo, that Rima was there with him, too.

No, I won't publish them on the internet for all to see, in case you asked, there are some of us quite adverse to that, but if you ask me personally and I know your name, I will send out some. For the ones who participated I founded a group on yahoo to watch and relish. I'm sorry, but I don't feel good with having my face all over the web.

After some talk we went into a restaurant and spent some money and the remainder of the evening with talks about everything. I would have so loved to meet another guestbooker, but she couldn't make it. I toasted to you too, there, Con.

It was a wonderful experience, and I am truly thankful for it. Thankful to the man for giving me incentive to explore my borders and crossing them. For feeling like a teenager again but now enjoying it for a change:-) And thankful for a really great experience to everybody I met.

Thanks for your time.
mortianna <mortianna@gmx.netfoo>
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 05:33:37 (PDT)

Mortianna goes to New York part 2

Well, when the husband of the couple smiled at me after the first act and said: "Now I know why you flew over to watch it again", I answered: "Fine, but I don't know any more." I really felt distressed a bit. I had a review of all my thoughts that had tried to make me not fly over. 'It is only a play, and perhaps it is not as good as I thought it was, rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb.' Well, I thought I'd give it a chance anyway. Well, I had come here for it, hadn't I? The second act caught me. It didn't seem as rushed as the first one. The first one seemed to have Alan trying to run with his sentences to get it over and done with. Caution again: I'm well aware that this might be my own sense of heightened anxiety and exhaustion, touched by a hint of embarrassment, that made me see it like that.

I realized that I hadn't seen anything at all in London, having sat in the first row. I didn't even get the fight with the vegetables. Now my conscience had a good reason for me to get back. I wouldn't have seen it the right way, hadn't I gone to New York. I relaxed and the play with me. They were all fabulous. I instantly fell in love with Victor again, and even Sybil didn't get on my nerves as much as I remembered. Amanda was gorgeous and Elyot was - well, edible:-) He couldn't sing to speak of but that didn't hurt much.

What remains in my head at the moment are just a few words, but what wonderfully pronounced words they were. The word "slattern", spoken by Elyot, then by Amanda, and by Elyot again, mumbled, torn out, catching every possible meaning of it, playing with it like a dog would with an old shoe - it equals the wonderful "elsewhere" in Barchester Chronicles. Victor's "hush" was great too, and I really loved that moment again with the "What?" after Elyot tells him that he thinks he is a bit cleverer than he, but that that obviously isn't saying much.

I had a feeling the face contortions and the play of all was much more on the well, farce side than I remembered it, meaning it was slightly overdone on the hilarity level. (Again: Will come to this later). It was wonderful though, and I enjoyed it a lot, and was beaming all over and actually sad that I could only see it once again.

I said goodbye to my new friends, having told them the secret that there were a lot of fans of that man in the audience, lots of women bound together by an invisible tie, that now would lead them irresistibly to the stage door.

Guess, where I found myself?

Well, I met Darlene and it was just so wonderful. Imagine flying all over the world and going to the stage door in New York "reckonnizing" someone from a yahoo group and going over and say: "Hi, I'm Mortianna from Germany" and getting hugged and kissed and feeling more than welcome. It is a mad world, my masters, but a small one too. Another girl from a group had popped up and we stood there talking and I was very serene with just standing there and waiting, when the man came out and all hell broke loose. I suddenly remembered that there were actually people who would like to have an autograph and I went for it. Again, some wonderful American ladies helped me get the stuff signed as I had retreated slightly to let the shorter ones in front. Well, that and to say hello to my boyfriend who had come by and had the biggest camera of them all and knew how to use it:-)

I just watched the man mesmerized and as I said, he was so sweet and tired and just about held himself up, I thought. I heard him talking to people and had the queerest feeling, but not unpleasant, that he was still acting, but not like on stage, but as in "we're all in this joke together", if that makes any sense. His voice was so very low and rumbled pleasantly through the collective womanhood assembled there:-) I saw him talking to the people he knew already, reacting to them, interested in how they felt, and it was enough for me, really. He is a wonder, after all.

I met a German girl who had been helpful in putting my stuff through and we three Germans (there were more, I heard it:-), made it together to a deli, for one more bagel and more beer. We chatted along nicely and easily. Something we wouldn't have done in Germany, I'm sure of it. That girl flew over all alone, and had had tickets for the planned last performance on Sept 8th, and had some difficulty getting it all done. She was so courageous!

and this is part 2
mortianna <mortianna@gmx.netfoo>
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 05:26:02 (PDT)

Mortianna goes to New York

When the immigration officer looked at me as if he was going to call the police and put me in the deepest dungeon for having the cheek of even trying to enter the United States, I very much felt like having a George time, with snarl and Spanish steel and all. I didn't. After all, I hadn't overcome my fears and my conscience to tell a humble agent of the US immigration that I only came over to this blessed country because an Englishman had decided to play exactly here of all states. And get thrown out on the premises for the cheek of me.

We made it through the barriers and into the City at last. Our hotel was just 4 blocks from the theatre and I took the opportunity to become acquainted with the neighbourhood after checking in. Much to my amazement:-) and to that of my boyfriend we found the theatre without any effort. The sight didn't give me a tingle as big as the sight of the Albery stage door did, perhaps I'm becoming much too sophisticated after all with travelling the world as a humble follower of THE MAN:-)

Well, perhaps it was more the fact that at home it would have been in the middle of the night and we had done some travelling that day. We didn't wait for the show to begin, but took some photos, tourists that we were, and started to become acquainted with the American way of life in the form of something to eat. Advice to fellow Europeans: A simple bagel for 5 bucks may sound outrageously expensive, but it feeds 2 normal and slightly more hungry than the average Germans rather nicely. I ate one whole myself and had some problems sleeping. Even the beer, which I as a non-beer drinker like very much, as it doesn't taste too awfully of anything, didn't help much. And yet I survived.

The next day came with the noise in the streets roaring up to its usual self. It had faded a bit around 3 or 4 in the morning, but not for so very long.

I was up and about despite a dismal lack of sleep. The box office would open at 10, which left us some time for normal tourist behaviour. We went to the Rockefeller Center, where I had lost my sunglasses ten years ago and didn't find them, either:-) But I realized that my camera didn't work and so I went to one of the stores on fifth avenue every guide book tells you to avoid and bought an outrageously expensive whatyoucallit, a battery of sorts.

After retracing the order my colleague in New York had put in, and being assured that the tickets would be available the next day, I bought another one for the evening on my own credit card which took some time and some translation and grinning in both directions. But I got my ticket and the day could go on from now on rather more light-hearted and headed. We did some tourist things, met my colleague and managed to get so late back to the hotel, that there was barely time for me to shower and get dressed again.

I was not really excited, I was much too tired for that. But the moment, when I was walking through Times Square, suddenly realizing that that was really my life and not a dream, was one of the best of my life, one which I shall always cherish and be thankful for, you know to whom:-) My thoughts having managed to excite me after all, I found my seat just to let my rucksack there and looking for the restroom. Having introduced myself to my neighbours, an elderly couple from er, Connecticut?, I went on my way. Well, some day I'll write the tale about travelling the restrooms of the world. Let it suffice to say that it was an ordeal, even worse than in London. The queue was unbelievable. Good for meeting people, though. I recalled a face from a yahoo.group and talked with a nice girl. The internet takes you places.

When I reached my seat again, the nice pair started chatting a bit with me. They couldn't believe I was German, thought I might be Irish (must be the hair?) and were excited at the thought that I had flown over especially to see this play. I felt quite adventurous and rather proud of myself:-) The couple was really nice and we talked quite a bit, I rather liked the American way of instant acquaintance.

When the play began, I soon realized two things: I hadn't seen a bit of it in London, or if I had, they had changed it a lot. For most of the first act I was thinking: What on earth is he doing there? His facial contortions seemed a bit - overdone to me. Arrogant European that I am, I thought it must be for the American audience. Just don't grill me yet, I'll come back to this later:-)

this is the first part
mortianna <mortianna@gmx.netfoo>
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 05:21:59 (PDT)

sorry slightly ot again

my home computer broke down, sensual overload i think, i tried to scan thousands (well okay the guy i took to nyc took his job seriously:-)of photos of the man.darn technics! so my fervently awaited (thank you, con:-) story about the big city and the big man will take some more time.

alice - have invited you to a group, did you get that mail?

Verena - ich lebe in diesem kleinen Land, ehrlich:-)Mail mich an, dann sag ich dir was komisches:-)

sorry, suz, when i come back it will only be for something serious and on topic. oh, i know: saw blow dry again, and cried again. i remember someone asking if she was the only one crying at that film. nope. i did too. and will again, i'm sure. This whole cancer business and how she takes it, the sweetness of the man and the lover, heartbreakingly sad. and funny. wonderful movie.
mortianna <mortianna@gmx.netfoo>
- Monday, September 09, 2002 at 00:57:03 (PDT)

Well, since somebody asked, (last post on the subject, promised!;) I thought I'd clarify: the reason why somebody like Mr Rickman or anybody who believes in some sort of social justice might want to refuse such an honour as a knighthood is not that the honour would not be deserved, it would indeed be deserved in this case, I think (for opening so many eyes through his work instead of just taking up the more mindless and lucrative parts). The reason is that it is a title given by the monarch. Monarchy, which gives individuals the birth right to rule and take your money, is not exactly a symbol of social justice. You American guys' ancestors thought the same, I believe ;) - I know, I know, the present monarch does not really rule Britain and indeed Britain had a parliament long before other countries. However, vast, and I mean *vast* amounts of public money are still spent on royals and their luxurious lifestyle. Even if you think that the monarchy does have a function in this country, the money is not justified. Personally, as somebody who likes Mr Rickman for some of his stands as well as for his talent, I would like to think that he would take the view that this money could be put to better use than to be given to somebody so they can then knight him... But all men are vain, and girls like titles :D, so who knows? Hey, if he'll kneel down before me, I'll do it for free! Problem solved! ;)
GML
UK - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 00:25:31 (PDT)

Thanks for the kind words Ellen, :o)
Linda
NJ USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 21:35:33 (PDT)

Linda, Your son Brian writes extremely well. I can't believe he's only 11. I am sure you and your family are very proud of him. I am sure he has a great writing future ahead of him. Thanks for sharing his report with us.
Ellen
New York, NY, - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 21:27:49 (PDT)

Last one I promise, Thanks to Laura for the info on the address for Lindsay D. I will check it out. :o)
Linda
NJ USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 21:21:21 (PDT)

OOPS, Forgot the link, Here it is: Brian's report. Thanks,
Linda
NJ USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 21:14:58 (PDT)

Hi, Its me again, so glad that worked, (Thanks, once again Suzanne)

I am linking an article that my son Brian wrote to our local paper. I understand that it appeared here about a week ago, I wanted to post his article but not his photo, I hope that you all understand. He and I had such a fantastic time meeting him. He was so nice and sweet to my son.

When I went on Aug. 25, I told AR about the article and asked him if I could send a copy to him and his response was "Oh really, sure". So this week it will be on its way to London.

Linda
NJ USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 21:13:33 (PDT)

HI, Not sure if this will work, (Thanks for the help, Suzanne), but I wanted you to see this great shot of Alan, I just love his expression, the bad part is, I cant remember what I said.

AR and me.

Thanks,
Linda
Nj USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 21:02:03 (PDT)

Linda in NJ - There is a site called Star Archive which lists the addresses of quite a number of celebrities, as well as comments from fans who have tested the various addresses. They do have three different addresses listed for Lindsay Duncan, but it's difficult to tell which is the most current. Hope this helps a bit. Good luck!
Laura <trulymadlydeeply79@yahoo.comfoo>
Ontario, Canada - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 20:40:44 (PDT)

Rima is the woman who AR has been connected with for about 30 years. There have been rumors that they lived together, that she moved out because she is a smoker and he isn't, that they are back together, etc. Who really knows? There are pictures of her on the net if you're curious as to what she looks like. Name is Rima Horton.
Harlii
- Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 20:37:40 (PDT)

Who is Rima?
Charlotte
Los Angeles, - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 20:29:35 (PDT)

The Leaky Cauldron site also mentions that the Harry Potter trailer will be shown this week on WB. Then, tonight, I saw the commercial too.

Looks like the CoS trailer will be shown during the new WB show "Family Affair". The show's premiere is Thursday, September 12th, 8pm. The commercial showed the Great Hall Christmas scene and the flying car scene, but since they promised "exclusive" footage, maybe they will be showing the second trailer?
martissima
chicago, IL - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 19:59:04 (PDT)

I havefelt frustrated ever since I have heard the MAN speak. That would be only about..hmm...oh...about 7 years! I Hate knowing that he doesn't know who I am. Ohhhhhh.. I can't stand it.
Jaime
- Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 19:00:17 (PDT)

Has anyone read/heard when The Search for John Gissing will be released in the U.S.? The New York Times had a list of upcoming film releases, but I didn't see it (I may have missed it since it's a long list). Thanks.
Ellen
New York, NY, - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 18:59:38 (PDT)

Mortianna, tried to email you but your address flunked. Please get in touch with me. So enjoyed talking to you 3 German fans at the after PL 'party'. And to think, y'all didn't even know each other before. The touch of class was the champagne, and what a joy that y'all saw Rima. Where are those pictures?
Alice <alicecbrown@yahoo.comfoo>
Boston, Ma Usa - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 18:27:12 (PDT)

(slightly off topic) Ali-pat! You are kidding me! They have DELETED the WTC from the DVD of January Man??????????? That is soooooooo stupid! Look, full sympathies to the Americans and all, but the WTC towers were a part of the NY skyline for over 25 years. Buildings go up and down - true, they don't usually come down like that - but it is really really really REALLY stupid of Hollywood systematically sit there and erase an important part of America's history from 25 years of footage? That is just stupid and makes Americans look like 'victims' who are in denial - and I think its pretty clear that Americans are NOT victims and have come out fightingly strong from this assault on their country!

However, as we all pay homage to the just under 3000 people killed in the September 11 disaster, let us not forget that the allied troups in Afghanistan killed 5000 people in Afghanistan in the first few days of the assault there... I am sure many innocent people were killed in Afghanistan as well as America and they deserve our remembrance as well - because they didn't ask the extremists amongst them to inflict the vengence of the western world on them.
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 17:48:02 (PDT)

Had my picture made with Alan Rickman after almost NOT making it to the last showing of PL. I just found out last Sun. was the last day, so I hopped on the train in Boston. As we approached Penn Station, some nice guy suggested I call the theatre to see if there were any tickets left. (I was going to Cheaptix to buy 1/2 price tickets for the evening performance.) What to my surprise, the woman said she had 2 tickets left, and THERE IS NO SHOW ON SUNDAY NIGHT!!! It was now 2:42 and the matinee started at 3 pm. With 2 taxis that of course got stuck in traffic and a street festival on 46th ST. , NYC was bound and determined I wouldn't see AR. But I did 20 min. late and on 2nd row right under his wonderful self. (You know what I mean.) That great smirk. And then ...and then,..his gracious glorious way of signing autographs when he was obviously sick and exhausted. Then seeing Carol Kane but realizing it too late to take a pic. I had a camera and successfully fought the impulse to take a pic while he was onstage: but when he took his bows!!!! And then at the stage door!! If y'all want any copies, I'll mount them anywhere you say (I've never put anything on an AR site, and don't know how). More later. Alice And yes, I did give the waiter at TGIF's an unsigned copy of the bill (10 of us fans had dinner after the glorious send-off). But 2 blocks away in the rain, I found the signed one as I bought something from a vendor, and ran back. The cute waiter (from south Carolina) just laughed and said, "No problemo...when the card went through with the bill, we had what we needed. No need to sign." That's kind of scary, no?
Alice Copeland Brown <alicecbrown@yahoo.comfoo>
Canton, ma USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 17:39:53 (PDT)

I heard on darkmark.com that there will be a sneak preview of CoS to air on Thursday on the WB. Does anyone know about this and what time? Someone said she saw it advertised between Sabrina and Reba. I want to tape it since I'll be out until 10pm that night (nuts!!!) so if anyone has any info, I would like to know about it. Thanks.
Mesmer's Girl
Chicago, - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 16:14:47 (PDT)

Hello everyone, I have enjoyed reading all of the posts lately, especially the ones on what makes Alan so special to that person. I found things in everyones posts that are close to home for me. I know I have said this before, but he is even more appealing to me now that I have met him. Yes, his looks, his acting, his voice, (pick one), is what originally attracted me to him, but I have to say having had the pleasure of meeting him a few times this summer is something that I wont ever forget.

Slightly Off-Topic *** I am interested in writing a fan letter to Lindsay Duncan, but I am having a bit of trouble finding and address for her. Can anyone help?

Also, Chris, who posted the article about my son, please come back. Thanks
Linda <brimatand@yahoo.comfoo>
NJ USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 16:13:53 (PDT)

Harlii, two top U.S. civilian honors that come to mind are the Presidential Medal of Freedom (the highest civilian honor that can be given in this country) and the Congressional Gold Medal (not the Congressional Medal of Honor, which is a military award), given in the past to distinguished authors, actors, and musicians, among others.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 15:07:52 (PDT)

Thank you, know when or if i finaly see the movie i will not be so suprised to see this.
Bev
- Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 14:55:48 (PDT)

I remember someone posting here that AR would not appreciate the honor of being knighted. That he would find it unnecessary and undeserving. But how could he possibly refuse such an honor?

So I began to think about the U.S. and if we have an award that is comparable to being knighted. Sadly, the closest honors I can think of are military related...Does anyone know of any others? How about the Kennedy Center Awards? I think that most performers are touched when they receive awards/honors that recognize their career achievements.
Harlii
- Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 14:18:34 (PDT)

Knighthood

I think he'd be a much better one than, say, Michael C**ne, who pouted until he got one. (insert one of Harlii's graphics here)....

I think AR would be, as Chaucer would say, "a parfait, gentile cnicht"....

The Crown doesn't make Chivalry, after all.... it only recognizes it!

Barbara the Wallpaperer <Reckogniiiiiize this?foo>
- Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 13:58:46 (PDT)

Thanks, GML. As always, you have been very enlightening. I always hold your posts in very high regard. The outcome will be very interesting if it ever happens.

Excellent choice in films for this upcoming week, Ali-Pat. I have been in a snit about the deletion of those beautiful New York skyline scenes since the DVD came out.

Interesting though--the scenes were not cut from the Region 2 DVD. Only after it arrives safe and sound in my mailbox shall I ever think about giving up my VHS copy.
Claudia
GA GA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 13:33:20 (PDT)

Hi Claudia,

Mmmh, interesting remark of yours about it not being 'politically correct' for him to accept a knighthood. Ten or even five years ago I would have agreed with you, but I think that today there would be much pressure on him to accept a knighthood indeed (to anybody boarding the train: no, he hasn't been offered one, we're just talking;) - You see, the monarchy has suddenly become very popular again in England in the past year or two, partly following the deaths of the queen's sis and mum and of course two good-looking princes have reached adulthood, which strangely is enough for most people to become monarchists ;) - and there are new strong feelings of national identity (Queen and country etc) following the terrorist attacks... Plus the fact that more of the man's fans are more conventional that they used to be (because many have discovered him through the highly-hyped Harry Potter and the highly-classic Private Lives) and many of these new admirers would probably wish him to be knighted... and he might be sensitive to all that. However, I really like to think, like is your guess, that he would very politely and very respectfully refuse... Which reminds me that the reason why he wasn't offered the part of Snape at first was because the guys thought he would refuse... ;)

GML
UK - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 11:42:40 (PDT)

Some somber/hopeful thoughts for a Sunday.

This week, hearts around the wolrd will be bruised with painful memories of what happend in the USA a year ago. Along with countless others, I will be participating in a public memorial service. But I will also engage in various private commemoration rituals of my own. One of these will involve watching the January Man video (not the DVD, from which shots of the WTC have been excised). New York City is treated very lovingly in this film, appearing in so many background shots that it could be considerered a co-star. Police and fire personnel are depicted throughout, going through their days in routine and often heroic ways.

Clearly, it is appropriate to remember and mourn at this time. But I also feel it is appropriate to celebrate the life of this amazing city, which I have come to love in a special way this year.

Peace.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 11:06:51 (PDT)

Brit, I have also been trying to find a copy of the screenplay for CL, but it does not seem to have been published. There are copies or photocopies of the script available in various academic/special libraries, but my attempts to borrow them through interlibrary loan have not been successful. If you are able to get a copy through Amnesty International, or any other supplier, would you let me know? I would be grateful.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 10:58:20 (PDT)

P.S. Bev, these people are so named after the Marquis de Sade, the father of sadism. I too have never seen Closet Land but would like to get a hold of a copy as the curiousity is eating me from the inside out! I would also like to get a script. I have not been able to locate one. Perhaps I will try going through Amnesty.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Misery - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 10:02:53 (PDT)

Bev, in reference to your CL question on sadists or sadism. Sadism is a feeling of pleasure (generally sexual) that some people derive from inflicting pain on others or seeing that pain inflicted. These people (who are inflicting the pain and/or deriving the pleasure) are called sadists.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Misery - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 10:00:07 (PDT)

I have not seen CL, and i am kinda clueless to what a sadist is. COuld someone please tell me.
Bev feeling very dumb
- Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 08:31:48 (PDT)

ohhohohoohoo,...no time to read everything,but what about Alan and Rima and his brother and ....Alan and LD???? I am confused (anyway,my head is full of english structure and short stories written by Ernest H. and God knows what else heehee).

lol mortianna,what are you doing in our very small country? Is it because of you profession? I�m just curious ....
verena
back to homework, - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 06:24:11 (PDT)

No shooting you from me, GML. Although I am an avid royal watcher, I don't think I want to witness The Man bowing for knighthood either. And for some reason I get the feeling it wouldn't be "politically correct" for him to do so.

So I would hope if offered (and it would seem that it is offered rather often these days) that he would respectfully decline--but who knows--I was shocked when Anthony Hopkins accepted.
Claudia
GA US - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 02:31:45 (PDT)

For Stacie and Vera:
"Remember when he said something like--it's all in the work, referring to all there is to know about him and his life--we can find it in his work. What the heck does that mean?"

I can hardly describe what it is to act with one's complete body and soul! When I look at Alan I see his years of movement classes. I see daily trips to the mirror, desparately trying to get his chin to sit just so, and his lips to drag just a bit futher down...Hours of attempting to clear the lines from his face and relax in order to look serene.

Read his eyes, find the tilt of his torso, the placement of his feet just so. Mr. Rickman does nothing carelessly. Virtually every performance I have seen of his is meticulously performed, right down to the fall of a finger. If he nervous, it can be seen. If he is having a bad night - certainly one will notice it.

I see his statement as a plea for us to look beyond the characters and see the effort involved in memorization, emotion, and movement that he has spend the last 30 or more years on. His acting is HIM.
(Suddenly feeling desparately miserable, Amanda trots off to look in the mirror to see if it's showing enough. "AH!" she cries out, and marks off her card for "misery". One acting excercise done for today.)
Amanda <avollaro@globix.comfoo>
NYC, NY USA - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 02:05:13 (PDT)

Gay, bi-, hetero....I don't care! I just wanna know what kind of relationship Rickman really had (or has) with Ms. Duncan. Come on, JD, tell what ya know! Puleeze....
Mesmer's Patient
- Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 01:48:25 (PDT)

Uh, Alan Rickman kneel down in front of the queen for a knighthood?! Gasp! Mmmh... I know many women go weak at the knees for uniforms and titles and the net profit would be an increase in fan numbers but... I'd personally rather not see that. I like to think of him as somebody who is not that desperate for the establishment's approval. Yes, yes, I know, everybody else would like him to be knighted, don't shoot me! ;)

I say, since the cyberstalking seems to be on, what about doing things in tabloid press-style? �50,000 REWARD to the first person to spot ALAN RICKMAN, preferably ALIVE, preferably IN BRITAIN, and report to this GB! Uh, and another �100,000 to whoever delivers him tied up and gagged to my front door at night.

Right. Off to do some work, which is *really* what I stwiched on the PC for...

GML
UK - Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 01:48:14 (PDT)

As soon as someone knows for sure if AR is back in the UK please let this Guestbook know.
Andrea
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 23:23:15 (PDT)

Hey Stacie...e-mail me when you get a chance, please ma'am! lmhpr00@knology.net Thanks! :~}
Harlii
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 20:29:09 (PDT)

Jamie, I know the feeling, the frustration. I had it, but it went away. How long have you been feeling so frustrated?
Vera
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 20:01:28 (PDT)

Harlii continues to fight the good fight, and requests no reinforcements. Regardless, I would like to also point out that every once in a while someone posts something like--enough of all this gay talk! Just because he played a gay man doesn't mean he is gay!! And yet the fact remains--we have not been having a debate about gayness. No one has said that recently. A month or so ago perhaps...
Stacie
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 19:01:05 (PDT)

I believe it was the opening of new buildings at RADA - Queen is a patron.
Judy
Sydney, Australia - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 17:24:31 (PDT)

Regarding that photo of Alan Rickman, Juliet Stevenson and the Queen of England. Does any one know why Alan and Juliet were meeting the Queen? Just out of curiosity??Do people think that Alan is a fan or supporter of the Monarachy? I saw the Queen went I went to London two years ago(quite by accident)and I was thrilled!!! I have seen two American presidents(one I wasn't even a fan of and had never voted for)and I was excited both times to witness the pomp, circumstance and excitement of a presidential visit. Do most people in England feel the same about the Queen? By the way, I am still waiting for her to Knight Alan for his distinquished service to British theater.
kathy
Lewiston, Me - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 14:54:23 (PDT)

hey i juust wanted to say that i think this site is grrrreat!!!..lol...big tony the tiger fan..hehe.anyway...i was just curious to know if AR is going to possibly be vacationing after his long stint in NY or if he has another project hes working on aside from HP2?
sally
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 14:24:26 (PDT)

Finishing my entry, which was cut off... This time I could see Lindsay Duncan's tears as they embrace after Elyot's "there isn't a particle of you..." speech. (I keep begging my husband to say this to me, but he just laughs!) Very touching. LD deserved her award--I really appreciated her more the second time. Some people have mentioned that they saw bits of Private Lives on video -- has anyone taped it? I would very much like to see anything from the play again. Some of you might enjoy the 1931 movie of Private Lives. It's dated, and you can understand why the critics praised the recent production for finding the depth beneath the Noel Coward brittle wittiness. But Norma Shearer gives a wonderful performance, and the breakfast scene is very very funny. Thank you all for contributing to this guest book!
Questioning Lee
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 13:20:41 (PDT)

sorry-make that sophisticated.
acc
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 13:14:13 (PDT)

I laughed when I first saw that picture. Juliet Stevenson is not a Monarchist, to say the least-what an expressive face she has. Rickman looks like he is humoring a little old lady. I believe that the Queen is a very bright and politically sophistocated if somewhat reserved little old lady!
a concerned citizen
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 13:13:28 (PDT)

Hello, just another devotee posting her PL experience. I live about four hours from New York and went twice. I so wish I could have gone more times, but for personal reasons it was a difficult summer. The first time, in May, I dragged my husband and some NYC friends. Sat in the first row, stage left, where my view was sometimes completely blocked, but at other times incredibly intimate. I was left with incredible sensory overload at having been so near his magnificent middle-aged masculine beauty and the bittersweet knowledge that it will never be closer to me than this. (I'm of the opinion that he is growing MUCH more handsome as he ages.) Can anyone explain--Is there some special significance to the line about Duke of Westminster's yacht? The second time, late August, I went with a Snape-o-phile girlfriend. I sat in last row of first section of orchestra, stage right (the Victor and Amanda side). This time I could see Lindsay Duncan's tears as they embrace after Elyot's
Questioning Lee
USA - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 13:13:05 (PDT)

I read that AR is staying until the 7th then he is flying back to London. I can't wait until the HP comes out. I REALLY cant wait until LA comes out.
Jasmine
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 12:46:28 (PDT)

Yes Jaime I agree with you it is VERY frustrating! I even feel sad that he is no longer in the USA (not sure about that). I liked knowing he was on our shores. Are there any UK Gbers who have heard that he is back in London yet? Or any NY GBers who know for sure that he has left? Thanks
Laura
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 12:15:40 (PDT)

It feels that I am wasting my life...
jaime--corrections
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 12:08:46 (PDT)

Has anyone else noticed that AR dies in almost ALL of his movies???
I feels sometimes that I am wating my life spending so much time on one man that will never be mine, I may never meet, and will never even know of my existance. It gets so frustrating.
Jaime
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 12:06:38 (PDT)

Hi Ellen! It's quite silly to suggest that a man is heterosexual because he's been in a relationship with a woman for a number of years. I happen to know, personally, 2 gay men who have been married to women for 30 years and they have children together my age and we're friends. They happen to still be married...legally.

BTW, I don't think anyone in several days has said ANYTHING about AR's sexuality as AR, but as it pertains to his roles and mannerisms in THOSE specific roles. Nothing personal at all.
Harlii
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 12:05:07 (PDT)

I wonder whether Mr. Rickman is still in the United States having a good rest or he is back in the United Kindom safely at home. Does anyone in New York have any clues as to where he is now? I have been a bit worried about his flu. I read somewhere that he would start filming a movie called "Love Actually" shortly after Private Lives ended. Does anyone have any info? Don't you think he is working much too hard?
Terri
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 11:05:37 (PDT)

Anja, many thanks...
Vera
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 10:52:06 (PDT)

I think you mean Christopher Lee, who plays Saruman, not Sauron. He's a great movie villain too and I grew up watching him and Peter Cushing in Dracula movies.
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 10:22:17 (PDT)

First, a Happy and Healthy New Year to our Jewish friends!

Second, I just finished watching Blow Dry (I saw it last year when it played here in NYC--for all of 2 weeks); it is a very good film. It was unfortunate that the movie never caught on. For those of you who haven't seen it yet, please do since it's a lovely film.

Third, may we please stop all of the nonsense about Alan's sexual preferences. He's been with the same woman for more than 30 years. The mere fact that his character (not him) is involved with a man in Dark Harbor is a testament to his acting skills not his sexual preference. No one here has had the same thoughts of Natasha Richardson playing a lesbian in Blow Dry that she may be secretly gay. She is happily married to Liam Neeson and they have children. Alan has played many different characters in his career, some nice and some not so nice. It is just as silly to say that he is a secret sadist because he plays one in Closet Land.

I really enjoy this Guest Book; it is amazing to see so many Alan Rickman fans from all over the world. I am sure Alan would be thrilled to see how many people his work has made an impression on through the years. I look forward to continuing to read your worthy contributions. I am impressed by the usual high quality of contributions to this Guest Book. Thanks.
Ellen
New York, NY, - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 09:10:38 (PDT)

This Guestbook is composed of over 6 years worth of complimentary comments about A.R. Will it ever be presented to A.R. one day? I think it should: "The Man" should see the outpouring of positive emotions from his fans from this dimension: A.R. appreciated and loved 24 hrs. a day, every day...; in addition to the letters he gets ( I conjecture that 1/3 of the letters never reach him) Maxine
Maxine
Toronto , Canada - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 07:35:35 (PDT)

JD: Are you implying that LD and AR have shared more than kissing scenes? Do Tell!
Mesmer's Patient
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 04:35:33 (PDT)

Hi Vera The PL Scene is at 27.June 13:43:53 under Julia.
Anja <markmannthies@onlinehome.defoo>
Germany - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 04:30:03 (PDT)

This link is VERY interesting, i thin it would intrest a lot of Rickmaniacs, expecially the UK ones. http://www.nd.edu/~tchapman/queenwithrickman.jpg
Jizel
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 04:20:12 (PDT)

Just a note for UK GBers - been shopping today and in WHSmiths, they've got a buy one, get one free offer and one of the vids included is Barchester Chronicles!! I succumbed, needless to say, if only to give the library copy some respite from my constant borrowing!

Also watched the tribute to John Thaw in the week (this isn't OT, honest) and one of the many good things said about him was his ability to be completely still. Now, who does that remind you of?! Just got me thinking that AR is the supreme example of that - completely still, not doing anything but when the camera's on him, we are left in no doubt whatsoever about what his character is thinking at that moment, what emotion he's going through, what he's plotting for the future or whatever - THAT is good acting - such that leaves me simply shaking my head and asking myself how on earth does he manage to do it! Fab.

OK enough babbling - must go and christen BC!
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 03:38:34 (PDT)

Lindsay, after all, is a longtime friend, utterly safe.
PAH!
JD
- Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 03:31:34 (PDT)

Well folks... Maybe Alan hitting 70 will be too much for our 14 yo fans, but it hasn't stopped Ian McKellum, Sean Connery or that chappy who plays the baddie Sauron in Lord of the Rings (STILL reeling that he us 80! Does NOT look it!)
Slly
Sydney, Australia - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 01:52:02 (PDT)

Once Alan hits 70, its all downhill from that. If only he was imortal, so he could act forever...hmmmm...
Jaime
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 22:40:58 (PDT)

Tami-just curious, but Saturday the 24th at the stage door that night, was your friend holding a copy of Rasputin to have autographed? I might have caught her in one (or maybe more) of my stage door pics. Still don't have em scanned though. Just curious.
Jayne Claire
AL - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 21:46:17 (PDT)

Fitz, great list. Thanks. There is a kiss in TSFJG that's playful and genuinely funny, but alas, not remotely passionate! And OT--Toby/CT, Anne/Manhattan, Anne/Virginia, and Anne/NJ please e-mail me. I'd love to share impressions and finish bits of conversations.
Lyn <lyn@maine.rr.comfoo>
Portland, ME - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:59:08 (PDT)

Thanks Harlii. Fitz, I enjoyed reading your outline. AR certainly picks films with seriously dysfunctional relationships. Well that kiss didn't count because he was in process of torturing her, and well, that kiss couldn't be passionate since he was simultaneoulsy planning her murder, and in that film his lover was his daughter so we won't dwell on that... okay ...
Stacie
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:36:40 (PDT)

Deborah, thank you for trying to help me find the PL kisses, I went to June but couldn't find it before my eyes fell out of my head. Can anyone be more specific as to location? My ex-friend taped the Tony awards for me minus the kissing scene.
Vera
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:31:47 (PDT)

You should be able to see them slightly, light blue. Click and drag the length of the sentence and you'll see it.
Harlii
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:23:25 (PDT)

Fitz, you forgot to reveal the magic spell that will make your sentences appear!
Vera
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:16:27 (PDT)

You're right Juliana, I can't know Alan Rickman's passion level. He's so sexy on screen. He's so intense as Snape, that I imagine he's very passionate, but I realize I can't really know.
Stacie
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:12:40 (PDT)

Deborah, that makes sense--your interpretation of the Mesmer kissing scene. Could be that was why it was so limpid. But dang! Why did he have to be so moral????
Stacie
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:09:25 (PDT)

Correction :) These two movies of AR also have kissing scenes in them: 1. Closet Land Eek, Aww, This is the only movie by AR that I think that I have to supress my memory of that kissing scene. (because he's an interrogator in the film) 2. Blow Dry - not passionate - He's not kissing his lover/wife, it's more a celebratory kiss of success (is there such a term?) so, no passion involved, and rightly so :P
Fitz
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:02:35 (PDT)

Forgiven.
Vera
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 20:01:11 (PDT)

Fitz, I have no idea how to highlight your invisible sentences.
Stacie
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 19:59:46 (PDT)

Sorry Vera, I appologize. I didn't have e-mail addresses to those two folks. It's almost relevant though! About buying music from PL. My appologies to the Guestbook too!
JC
AL - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 19:56:00 (PDT)

i love ar.he is the best
sally
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 19:54:34 (PDT)

What are these personal posts back and forth for? Don't you people have e-mail? This is rude.
Vera
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 19:51:05 (PDT)

Mary Anne,

My dear Coffee and Tea friend, thank you so much for the info. I had heard a bit about the area and of having lunch (or dinner, depending on the time) while I'm there.

Again, thanks for the post about Laser's Edge and surroundings.
Jayne Claire
War Eagle! - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 17:33:46 (PDT)

Oh, and I see that the sun has set--so, L'Shanah Tovah! A Happy New Year to all of the Jewish Rickmaniacs.

MA
Oy, another year already?, USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 17:17:39 (PDT)

Fitz--There *is* a kissing scene in ClosetLand, but it is definitely not intended as pleasure or passion. EEEK! Still, "you must remember this, a kiss is just a kiss . . ." *Grin*

Jayne Claire, it's definitely worth your time to come up--not only for Laser's Edge, but also for O'Henry's Coffee and Tea (which is practically next door to Laser's Edge) and also for the two nearby bookshops, Little Professor and Alabama Booksmith. You can really make a day of it. As for "Tuesday when you have no class at all . . ." Hey, I like to think that most of the people who come to this site have class every day! ;-D

Mary Anne
Coffee-and-tea fiend, USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 17:09:56 (PDT)

LEE!!! Yeah, I saw that, thanks for the heads up though. I looked at the sight RIGHT after I posted that and realized "Hm, not a good idea to go Sunday..." Maybe Tuesday when I don't have class at all.

I didn't see any way to search on the web site, so I guess it's all in a trip to Birmingham. I'm not too familiar with the area so I'll have to trust luck to find it. LoL
Jayne Claire
AL - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 16:40:30 (PDT)

Fitz! He plants a big juicy smooch on Rachel Griffiths in BD. Perhaps not earth-shatteringly passionate, but it made a nice smack and I would have been happy with it.

REALLY LIKE the highlighting idea--how cool!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 16:13:56 (PDT)

So I have chosen AR's most well-known movies and divide it into 2 categories, with kissing, and without. I can see why he does not seem passionate kissing in some roles though :) and they're good reasons.

No kisssing scenes:
1. Search for John Gissing, The (2001) .... John Gissing
2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001) .... Professor Severus Snape
3. Blow Dry (2001) .... Phil
4. Play (2000) .... Man
5. Help I'm a Fish (2000)
6. Galaxy Quest
7. Dogma (1999) .... Metatron
6. Judas Kiss (1998) .... Detective David Friedman
7. Michael Collins (1996) .... Eamon De Valera
- No kissing scene as well, but I think AR shows de Valera as a icily passionate person, where he had great passion for revolution, but was cold against (nearly) all else.
8. Sense and Sensibility (1995) .... Colonel Brandon
- Although this is a great romance, our Colonel Brandon spent most of the time brooding and looking out for Marian :(
9. Bob Roberts (1992) .... Lukas Hart III
10. Closet Land (1991) .... Interrogator
11. Quigley Down Under (1990) .... Elliott Marston, Owner Marston Waters Ranch
- I haven't seen this one, but I assume Marston does not have a lover, and thus does not have a kissing scene?
12. January Man (1989) .... Ed
- I haven't seen this one as well, but I assume he doesn't have a lover in this one as well.
13. Die Hard (1988) .... Hans Gruber
-Terrorists simply won't get the girl in Hollywood movies :P
14. Romeo and Juliet (1978) (TV) .... Tybalt
- Unfortunately he's not Romeo :(

With Kissing Scenes
1. Dark Harbor (1999) .... David Weinberg
-I haven't seen it, but according to most GBers, it was a passionate kissing scenes.
- SPOILER WARNING: (Highlight the next setence if you're not afraid of spoiler)
- Of course he'd be passionate in this kissing scene! How else would David do what
he had done if he's not passionately in love.
2. Rasputin (1996) (TV) .... Grigori Rasputin
- Very passionate kissing scenes! :) I love the scene where he tried to seduce the princess and threw things around the room :P
3. Awfully Big Adventure, An (1995) .... P.L. O'Hara
- not too passionate
- SPOILER WARNING:
- however, I hardly would expect one to be passionate about a girl who openly declare she is in love of another person her partner was making love to her :(
4. Mesmer (1994) .... Franz Anton Mesmer
- Not passionate
- Doctor/Patient relationship is a no no, and Deborah has explained the rest well :)
5. Close My Eyes (1991) .... Sinclair
- I haven't watched it yet, but according to all the summaries I read, Sinclair's wife did not love Sinclair a lot and was cold to him.....
6. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) .... George, Sheriff of Nottingham
- not passionate
- Hmmm... quite passionate on the Sheriff part :P but his partner is unwilling.
7. Truly Madly Deeply (1991) .... Jamie
- not passionate
- SPOILER WARNING:
- i. Jaime is a ghost.
- ii. Jaime is a ghost who came back (probably) so that he can convince his lover to forget about him
- iii. Jaime seems to be the passive side of the romantic relationship.

Fitz
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 15:27:51 (PDT)

Passion in intimate scenes

I wonder how much of what AR shows or does not show in scenes of this nature has to do with his comfort levels with his costars. Lindsay, after all, is a longtime friend, utterly safe. He can let it all out around her and she won't misconstrue him. So Elyot is passionate in intimacy.

Similarly, with the character of Jamie, Juliet Stevenson is another such friend. Safe. Won't misinterpret him. He can bare more.

Now, having seen Murder, Obliquely, I wonder..... how good of a friend is Laura Dern? Because his character Dwight in that production is exquistely passionate. Quiveringly passionate. I think he did King of the Hill because of her....

Analytically yours,
Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 14:58:15 (PDT)

JAYNE CLAIRE--IMPORTANT--PLEASE READ! LASER'S EDGE IS NOT OPEN SUNDAYS ACCORDING TO THEIR WEB PAGE. They are in Homewood, 2825 18th Street South (I think). Phone # on web page. Thanks for your wonderful post! I needed that. Made my day :)
Lee
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 14:46:03 (PDT)

I think many of us would agree that AR is a Master of his craft of acting. He seems to be a perfectionist and very deliberate about every single job he takes and even his comments outside the stage door. What ever way he acts in a certain scene is most deliberate and scrutinized, I am sure. We can't presume to read any ulterior motives, or personal attitudes from his acting roles. It IS nice to dream or put our own perspective on his characters, but to judge his true passion and all that is really out of our realm. We are really just watching [or meeting- if you were one of the lucky ones] the finest actor to ever grace any stage or the cameras. Long live Alan Rickman; he is wonderful.
Juliana
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 14:27:49 (PDT)

Definitely, Stacie. And I think it's a tribute to what an amazing actor he is by the way he can convey SO much just through his expression, his eyes and his mannerisms!

To Vera: Around the beginning of June, Suzanne posted some wonderful video clips from the Tony Awards with the kiss... or kisses. Look for "director" and "set design." I just found them the other day when I was reading through the News page and I can't stop playing them over and over. The passion definitely shows in these clips, so I can only imagine how much more it was apparent seeing them in person! I'm one of the unfortunate souls who didn't get to see PL in New York or London, so the clips are a nice consolation. And I loved everyone's PL and stage door reports too!

Continuing on the subject of kisses, I'm with Tami. Whether there was passion or lack of passion in his various on-screen and stage kisses, I think it was meant or SUPPOSED to be that way. Take Mesmer, for example. Some say they didn't see any passion in that kiss. But think about it, she was his patient, and a doctor having any kind of relationship with their patient is a no-no and he knew it. Plus he was married, so he KNEW it would be wrong. So you can just see the caution and the resistance leading up to the kiss until he FINALLY allowed it to happen. And then he pulls away when it's clear she wants more. Guilt, perhaps? Well, that's my interpretation anyway!
Deborah
AZ USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 14:03:44 (PDT)

Julia, what you said about Alan externalizing thoughts and feelings helps me understand what I find so seductive about his performance in TMD. His expressions are so soft and caring, like when Nina says 'thank you 'to him, and he says 'what for?' Also, when she walks in after being out late and he's playing the cello. His expressions during their conversation are so sweet. When they are hiding under the window from Nina's sister, and Nina says she wants the world to go away, his face registers a real-taking in of not only her words, but how she feels. I think it's seductive because wouldn't we all like someone that caring and sensitive to be in love with us?
Stacie
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 12:08:02 (PDT)

Tami, he exuded a great deal of passion in Rasputin. Unfortunately, I didn't see Private Lives. No one has said or written in the press about any lack of chemistry between Alan and Lindsay Duncan. My only disappointment in Rasputin was that the beard hid his face and was kind of mangy-looking. I'd love to see him as a live person,( as opposed to dead Jamie), in a heterosexual, non-sadistic, non-incestuous, non-mangy-bearded-look love scene, (is this too much to freakin' ask?),and with serious kissing. I am sure he would come through with the passion. I think he's got tons of passion inside him. Just once, onscreen, c'mon Alan...
Stacie
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 11:50:20 (PDT)

Sorry, I'm going to go a little OT here.

LEE! Have I told you that you're wonderful lately? I am checking out that sight right now. Do you know what area of B'ham it's in? Maybe Sunday if I get as bored as I think I will, I might make a trip up there. Only an hour and a half trip. WORTH IT! Yes!

By the way, you're wonderful! Thanks for the link.
Jayne Claire
AL - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 11:47:09 (PDT)

LLD--Lindsay Duncan was quoted as saying that when everyone left the theatre, they left wanting to have sex.... with Alan Rickman. Yes, maybe he should hold back a bit (giggle)
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 11:44:07 (PDT)

RE: portrayal of passion. Maybe it's a good thing he holds back a bit. I remember reading what one reviewer said of LLD--"there wasn't a dry seat in the house."

But I agree he can certainly turn it on when he wants to, PL, AABA, and Rasputin being the best examples IMO.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 11:39:31 (PDT)

I would love to eat my words. I don't feel critical of Alan on this point, just personally disappointed not to see a scene like this. LLD was extremely sexy according to the press. I would love to have seen it. Though his character was sadistic, I think. Alan always throws a wrench in somewhere. Our Man of Mystery. It's incredible how a soft-spoken man as Mortianna describes him just drips with sexuality on screen and has characters like Snape and Sheriff Nottingham inside him.
Stacie
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 11:35:22 (PDT)

I've just started watching Dark H but I'm pretty sure the difference in passion is deliberate within this movie. I read somewhere that some of the disagreements with Mesmer centered around this issue too so maybe on screen passion is just not his thing (I'm not impressed by his American accent in DH either) or maybe the directors prefer him to play a bit detached/unattainable. People in the theater certainly have found him sexy although some reviewers have noted a lack of chemistry. Maybe it's in the eyes of the beholder. Or could it be cultural--do we Americans see things differently? Perhaps, in the movie he's currently filming, he'll play a character with a passionate love life and we'll all eat our words. Ann
Ann M. Williams <awilliams@sjc.edufoo>
West Hartford, CT USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 09:35:27 (PDT)

Elizabeth, you read my mind! I think Alan was very passionate in Private Lives. That kiss you spoke about was so powerful, that there were audible gasps from the audience every time I saw it (four times). Of course, Elyot and Amanda are both very passionate individuals by nature. As for romance... the part where Elyot says, "You're looking very lovely you know, in this damned moonlight, Amanda. Your skin is clear and cool, and your eyes are shining, and you're growing lovelier and lovelier every second as I look at you. You don't hold any mystery for me, darling, do you mind? There isn't a particle of you that I don't know... remember... and want." I get shivers just thinking about it. Elyot and Rasputin are good examples of what Alan can do when the role calls for passion or romance. If he lacks passion in other roles, it's only because he meant to play the character that way. -Tami
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 09:30:07 (PDT)

Jayne Claire--Me too! A friend of mine told me about a store in B'ham that sells CDs, called Laser's Edge. They have "Gertie" (Gertrude Lawrence) in stock and can order "If Love Were All" and "Songs of Noel Coward." They have a website at www.lasersedgecd.com and can do e-mail or phone orders for people out of town. I haven't checked out the website but this is what I've been told. All 3 of these CDs I think include "Someday I'll Find You" and you could probably get the people at Laser's Edge to tell you if a CD includes other songs you want. Good hunting!
Lee
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 09:01:15 (PDT)

Sorry, OT. Mortianna, I sent an e-mail to you at the address below, but it came back.
Lyn <lyn@maine.rr.comfoo>
Portland , Maine USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 09:00:11 (PDT)

Er, I just feel the need to interject this comment because of what I feel coming.

Several posts back Stacie asked a perfectly legitimate question about the idea of passion in certain of AR's movie scenes. I think it has sparked a very interesting discussion. I don't think it has turned gossipy and I don't think our personal perceptions of why we find certain scenes steamy or not, should be categorized as intruding on his personal life. If I'm watching a scene and find it to be *whatever*, that's my opinion. Why I find it to be *whatever* is also based on my experiences, opinions, etc. I don't think anyone was speculating seriously as to the nature of his sexual orientation, but making comments based on individual perceptions of AR's mannerisms in specific flicks. Maybe I missed something, but the past several posts relating to the DkH scene didn't seem to suggest he was gay or not gay because the kiss was passionate or not. Like I said, maybe I missed something, but that's not how I interpreted any of the comments.

Since this site is one to discuss ALL of his work and since it is one where every other nuance he conveys on screen or on stage is always discussed very minutely, I don't find the *feminine mannerisms/traditional masculine mannerisms* discussion to be off topic, inappropriate or sad. For once in my life at this GB, this topic has not turned into a "he's gay"/"he's not gay" debate. I think it has stayed on high ground as we have discussed his on screen persona and not his personal life. I do confess it may seem tedious to the old timers at the board because they've read it and discussed it so many times. But the person who said they were sad to read the GB because of this discussion appears to be reading out of context.
Harlii
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 08:29:58 (PDT)

To: Anne (Manhatten) From: Maxine This is in regards to get better picture quality of A.R. from the VCR. Thank you so kindly for the offer to send pictures via "SNAPPY" but the computer I use does not have a printer/scanner, also I cannot even reach you at gibsondunn.com from my own hotmail address.
Maxine
Toronto, Canada - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 07:34:21 (PDT)

Vera--PBS aired the first hour of the Tonys and they showed clips from each of the plays. The kiss clip was aired at that time
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 07:29:32 (PDT)

Someone taped the Tony awards for me, and there's no kiss on there! Where is the kiss?
Vera
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 07:23:16 (PDT)

Mortianna, thank you for that description of Alan. It was different and very evocative. Harlii, I also see that amibiguous quality. I think one reason Alan is so different from the average movie actor is that he is an artist on a higher level than most of them. He's obviously seriously committed to the art of acting. We are not just movie star fans here, we are inspired and impressed with this artist's work. It so happens the artist is physically beautiful and interesting in personality as well. That's a potent combination, no wonder we're all smitten. And no wonder we're all learning things from him, all artists have something to teach. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that people in this guestbook are creative themselves, or have a history of appreciating great books, films, poetry, paintings...
Stacie
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 07:21:13 (PDT)

Two things - First, AR was indeed wonderful in 'Tango', Georgiana, but to the best of my recollection it wasn't one of London's hot tickets - the night I was there the theatre was nowhere near sold out - so I suppose there were no impresarios anxious to take the show to New York.

Second - let's put this whole 'if he kisses a man on screen well he must be gay' string to rest. The North American version of the gay soaper 'Queer as Folk' is made in Toronto, and it contains the most frank depictions of homosexual lovemaking that I have seen on any screen. Of the eight actors central to the story, a gay friend reliably informs me, only two are gay. The rest are acting their socks off. They kiss whomever the director tells them to kiss. End of story.
Gail
Toronto, Ontario - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 07:20:40 (PDT)

Hey EJ--looking foward to seeing you on the stage or screen one day. And by the way, you have excellent taste in actors!
Claudia
GA US - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 06:40:20 (PDT)

I'm 13 and I want to be an actress when I grow up. Alan Rickman is my idol, I love him, he and the characters he portrays are fantastic! Keep up the good work!
EJ
- Friday, September 06, 2002 at 06:07:09 (PDT)

Barbara : Beautifully put, thanks......"a muse" yes, that's it.

Elizabeth: Yes, that kiss in Private Lives was powerful enough to shame an earthquake! I saw it close up and I think I must have had a stupid grin on my face through it, not the usual wincing and squirming I do during "love scenes".......And I agree that in AABA, the snogs were really passionate.

Mortianna: I am so glad you had a lovely experience at the Stage Door meeting AR. He really is very vulnerable at times and I am glad you caught him at it! LOL
Constance
NC USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 05:34:21 (PDT)

BtW and Brit--I add your posts to the list of those in the past several days that have me jumping up and down and saying--yeah! Like she said! How many other actors can evoke these kinds of complex feelings from so many? Posts like these keep me reading this guestbook. They make me feel justified in devoting so much time, brainpower, and emotion (and money, I must admit) to the my appreciation of this man. It is deeply comforting to know that I am not the only one who has these feelings--thanks to all of you. I only wish I could get my family and friends to read and understand those posts when they look at me in shock and pity, saying things like, "You went to New York City and only saw one play--five times?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 05:16:07 (PDT)

sorry ot again.

toby, lynne, heather, alice and kathleen - would you please contact me on the ground floor:-) there's something to share...

on topic - watched blow dry last night. i loved it. have to see it again, someone rang me up in the middle of it. fun and sad and seet, and the tattoo IS lovely:-)

THAT TOPIC again: when i saw the man at the stage door on saturday, i was completely smitten with his being so incredibly sweet and soft and all. and i thought, my mind as it seems more influenced as it is exactly good for me with this guestbook:-), i can see why people might think he is gay. CAUTION before you throw vegetables at me (i would only let the man do that:-)i don't think he is, plus i don't care if he is, it wouldn't change a thing, but in a culutre where manliness, if that is a word, still seems to mean going banging about and being loud and boisterous (oops, wherever did i get that picture from?) a man that is so tired and yet so sweet as to go on signing day after day and talking to people in that soft low voice and looking like a five year old could push him over with a ball of cotton wool, i can see where this ... (insert your own word here) rumour stems from.

this whole talk about what he means to us is highly interesting to me. Constance and Julia hit it for me, but i appreciate every opinion. Just at the moment i feel more like David Weinberg: Don't think, drink:-). sunny - danke f�r das Willkommen:-)
mortianna <mortianna@gmx.netfoo>
germany and back to posting way too long, - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 03:18:36 (PDT)

Er, Sall? Your comment about Everett and McKellenthey haven't got a bisexual or heterosexual gene in their body. You clearly know them better than they do themselves! Or - no - wait. It couldn't be that you're talking through your - er - hat? Could it?
Jules
UK - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 03:15:16 (PDT)

Lorie - just this last night??? I haven't seen much of relevance for a few weeks now! When real news is sparse on the ground, presumably because Da Man is taking a very well earned break after finishing Private Lives, the chat generally does go to more general topics... Can't be helped! The only 'thing that makes you sigh' in this is the that the newer visitors tend to be rehashing the same thing that has been discussed endlessly in the past by previous 'new people...' Ergo, of course it appears dull to the not so new people!
star
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 23:46:44 (PDT)

In regards to the topic of passionate kissing involving Mr. Rickman, I am suprised that no one has mentioned Private Lives. I did not get to see this show in person, but based on the clips I saw on the Tony Awards and Charlie Rose I believe that the amazing chemistry between AR and LD produced some of the best kissing that I have seen in awhile. In fact, when I called my mother the day after the Tony's, the first thing she said to me was "My goodness, can that man kiss or what?" I would like some insite from people who have actually seen these kisses. Were they just as good in person? Just curious.
Elizabeth
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 23:07:51 (PDT)

Barbara the Wallpaperer, thank all good things for you! I wondered if I was the only person who felt this way. It is as if you read my heart. Also, as a student of theatre and film I am inclined to see him as a role model in this manner. It is as if I have two bits of me, two perspectives, who adore AR for different reasons. My respect for him is the solid cake and foundation of my love for him, my desire to be as he is. The icing of my cake is seen in an entirely different perspective; of course I think he's sexy. I don't look at his a picture and see a sexy face and so on. I look at his picture and see a charismatic and caring personality in his eyes and I know that he is beautiful. These two perspectives can be likened to an actor's perspective and a director's perspective. Both are very different, yet both adore the same script. My respect for him is the largest part of my admiration for him. His sexiness is static and does not touch upon his beauty. His beauty grows as I get to know more about him and see in him the things that I love most about myself and the things that I would love most to be and endeavor to do so. I love him for what I know (so far) of him to be. I love him because he himself is beautiful. He is sexy because I love him. These opinions are, of course, through my own perceptions.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Misery - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 21:46:25 (PDT)

I was truly disappointed in reading this guestbook tonight.I enjoy AR in some of his roles and others were not worthy of his great acting ability.But the comments here got away from his acting, movies and became a gossip party about his private life.Why do we have to analyze everything to death.He is a fine actor who goes to work, and does a job like we all do.He just happens to entertain us .Let's not diminish that by shredding the poor man apart..just enjoy the pleasure he gives in the movies that appeal to us.
Lorie <bluenoser8@hotmail.comfoo>
ns canada - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 21:43:03 (PDT)

Harlii, isn't Pierce Brosnan Irish and Sean Connery Scottish? Of course individual people are well, individual people, aren't they, but I think that men of Rickman's generation tend to be rather reserved socially when it comes to affectionate gestures or sexual issues. In TMD Jamie and Nina had a close rapport by themselves but were very reserved around the other "guys".No one has mentioned the second kissing scene in AABA, and I thought that it was a passionate kiss-wonderfully nuanced performance.
a concerned citizen
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 21:37:08 (PDT)

I must say that I definitely felt the passion in the DH kiss. Ever since the whole 'most passionate kiss' opinions were brought up I had hoped that someone would mention DH and was glad to find that several people did. I think that it was an extremely well acted scene. However, about Alan personally, I don't think it necessarily means anything other than the fact that he's obviously not homophobic; I don't think anyone ever thought he was anyhow, though. That's my humble opinion on as far as in can be assumed in regards to his work being his biography! It was a great scene and a great movie, although the cinematography/directing on occassion did slack a bit, once again IMHO.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Misery - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 21:23:53 (PDT)

Alan Rickman is my catalyst.

Part muse, part teacher, part... guide. An example.

"Give me one tall ship to sail, and a star to steer her by."

It's not to the point that I ask myself, "What Would Alan Do?" :) but I do think on his work after I leave it.

The very best writing makes me do that: Essays on Pragmatism, Meditations, Common Sense.

I admit to having a bad case of hero worship :)

"I don't love the man. I have a heavier burden to lay on him: Respect. Love accepts. Respect demands."

And the more I learn about AR, the more impressed I am. The more I admire his actions and his public conduct and consider them models for my own public conduct.

I shall never be famous, as he is. But, when I am thrust into the spotlight with the causes I donate time to, I endeavor to be as articulate, personable and private as he is -- speaking, not of me, but of the cause.

I guess, when I grow up :)... I wanna be Alan Rickman. Not AR the Actor. AR the Human being.

Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 21:17:35 (PDT)

Can't resist adding my two-cents' worth!

I think Alan's mannerisms are... for lack of a better word, mannered. Highly stylised, if you will. No doubt, many of them were learned at drama school, and they work! Often, his "dance-like" moves serve to heighten the psychological tension of a performance by adding a physical aspect. That's why a deeply psychological actor like him is never boring to watch. He externalises the very internal processes of thinking and feeling. Perhaps that's also part of what we're all drawn to: He acts as a mirror for ourselves. And indeed, isn't that the job of an actor? Or at least part of it? That ties into what I was going to say about Alan-as-teacher. Even when placed in a teaching role (eg: October 2000 Masterclass) he is unwilling to lecture. The real learning takes place due to our own interior impetus. Alan just happens to be present at every turn. Perhaps he anticipates our next thought, perhaps he's experienced the same curiosity, or maybe it's just coincidence and we're making it up. But it is undeniable that there is a sort of karmic circularity to the issues that surround his work, an ambiguity that leads to the same questions being resolved in different ways at different points in his career. The Buddhists would say that that's what learning is all about!
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 18:57:44 (PDT)

I find a lot of AR's mannerisms to be feminine, or rather, ambiguous...that's based on my perceptions and my standards of what is feminine or masculine. If someone doesn't see what I see, it doesn't make them right and me wrong. We none of us know. It doesn't really matter to me, but there are women who interpret that graceful, cat-like movement as...feminine...
Harlii
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 18:44:02 (PDT)

I'd love to see where this percieved 'bisexuality/homosexuality' evidence for AR comes from! 30+ year with the same woman doesn't particularly stink of sexual ambivalence if you ask me! Making a movie hardly constitutes having that tendency yourself. Why on that ground, you could argue Rupert Everett or Ian McKellem are bisexual since they keep making movies where they play heterosexuals, yet to listen to then in real life, they havne't got a bisexual or heterosexual gene in their body! Grow up people and move on from this view point - its dull and who cares? If you were a guy fantasising in this guestbook, I would understand but strikes me 95% or more of the visitors are (at least pretending to be) female!
Sall
Sydney, Australia - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 17:47:29 (PDT)

Yes, Ali-Pat. "Tango" is the one play I truly wish I had seen. The bits of it I have seen in video snippets look full of that exquisite pain he is so good at. Or at least used to be. An amazing work. I'm surprised it did not move to Broadway--I thought it was superb both as a play and (for the little I saw) in the execution. Like LLD and so many of what he has chosen to do, one of those pieces with an ending that comes up and bites you in the end, or pulls the rug out.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 17:12:56 (PDT)

Spending this night digesting the feedback. Thanks for sending it on.
Lily
Chicago, IL - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 16:40:12 (PDT)

Here is my 2 cents on the kiss in TMD not being so passionate as some would desire. Remember that Jamie is trying to keep some emotional distance between himself and Nina. mho.
Juliana
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 16:13:15 (PDT)

i just wanted to say that i think that this site is really great and i love reading all ur hilariously funny posts!:)
stella
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 15:45:23 (PDT)

...Connie, I understand you perfectly well, but you know that already, don't you?
Mortianna is back! Welcome home!!
Sunny
Germany - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 15:44:05 (PDT)

Yes, I notice some similarities. In particular, I've always been a sucker for men with a strong feminine side. Now, I don't mean EFfeminate, which is something that neither Mr. Rickman, nor my own partner, are. But the qualities that I think make a man attractive are what I call "feminine" qualities--sensuality, compassion, humanism, creative problem solving, etc. Same things I like about my real-life squeeze, and also my best friend, who happens to be a man. Of course, these are all qualities that I perceive in Mr. Rickman's persona, since I haven't spent enough time hanging out with him to really know what he's about. As a matter of fact, I haven't spent ANY time hanging out with him...well, at least not "real-life" time ;-)
Gwenn
NYC, USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 15:18:54 (PDT)

Jen, thank you! Cannot add anything there, except that I agree completely. Beautifully written.
Kirsi
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 15:16:15 (PDT)

You know how people often get divorced, or break up with someone, and then hook up with someone new who's very similiar to the one they just broke up with. A therapist told me it can take multiple relationships going bad before some people give up on a certain type of person, (not consciously, of course). I had just broken up with my boyfriend when I became obsessed with AR. It ocurred to me after a while, that AR and my old boyfriend had some traits in common. Of course, these are traits I perceive in Alan, they may not actually exist in the man. One, they are both highly talented and have achieved great success in their fields. Two, they are both highly intelligent and intellectual. Three, they both are critical of themselves and are critical in general. Four, there is some question about their sexuality, attraction to women definite, but some question about possible bisexuality. Five, both are reserved and have a passive quality, as well as being very hard workers. Do any of you notice similiarities between Alan and your husbands/boyfriends, past or present?
Stacie
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 14:40:27 (PDT)

Yes, Constance, Yes!!! He's all that! I hear and recognize! But in my case, the creativity he has inspired in me took the form of compiling this bibliography, which is now forcing me into a whirlwind course on website design so I can release it to the world! And it isn't that I don't read much--I do. Too much. But in a lifetime, you can't be exposed to everything. And Alan seems to gravitate to offbeat topics in his choice of roles (well, offbeat to me, anyway). For example, I knew all about Rasputin and the Romanovs, but Mesmer had never crossed my radar screen until I saw the movie.

Not only that, he has exquisite taste in playwrights, which has opened a world of stage work to me I never knew existed. I just finished reading Tango at the End of Winter and it left me collapsed in sorrow but grateful for having read it. I don't know how else I would have known about that play except for following his career in this way. And the list goes on and on.

And that's just the intellectual stuff--the visceral stuff is very surely there, too (i.e. I swoon over his photos as much as the next Rickmaniac. Don't get me started. Please.)

But I have never encountered anybody, outside of a really inspiring teacher, who has caused me to expand my intellect as much as this fellow has. So what's that all about, anyway?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 14:33:03 (PDT)

Claudette: To add to Ali-Pat's fine comments on AR being a teacher.......For me it is a little more metaphisical and personal in nature. My experience has been that from the moment I found AR, my life changed in many ways... most remarkably was the freeing of my creative energy/spirit, I became more confident and outspoken, truthful and in touch with who I really am. All these attributes, AR has in himself and in some very mysterious way (which I am still trying to figure out)have been transmitted into my own psyche. I know this sounds very strange and I don't expect many to understand, but if even one person here gets it or has had a similar thing happen to them and my sharing this comforts them, then all the embarassement I am feeling right now, will have been worth it. :~)
Constance
Cary, NC USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 13:59:11 (PDT)

Thanks Ali-Pat for doing a great job explaining about Alan being such a great teacher. Thanks to Jen and Constance for their interesting and thought-provoking posts and thanks to Lily from Chicago for starting such an interesting thread on this GuestBook. These posts are the most interesting (& involving) I have read in a long time.
Claudette
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 13:50:49 (PDT)

LOL--Thanks for the "teacher" explanation, Ali-Pat. But I am reminded of one of Metatron's lines in Dogma--and I am paraphrasing here--"Jeez, you people don't know about anything if it a movie hasn't been made about it"
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 13:06:29 (PDT)

Well, he is a thinking man. And he cares. Both brains and heart, that is appealing, isn't it? And, teacher... he widens our interests, at least it works that way for me.
Inger
Gothenburg, Sweden - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 12:31:58 (PDT)

Ooooooooo, Jen, Lily, and Constance--keep it up! Your comments are like brain candy!

Claudette, what I mean about Alan being a great teacher is that, since I have started watching his films, I have been introduced to literature and historical events about which I knew nothing previously and which his films have prompted me to read about. Taken as a whole, his catalog of films covers a pretty impressive variety of topics--I think of it as my second undergraduate degree. In fact, I have been reading so much that I have felt the need to keep a list of all the books his films have led me to. This is the bibliography to which I referred in my previous post, and I hope to make it available to all as soon as I finish it. Finish compiling it, that is--it will take the rest of my life to read all those books. Thus the working title. The AR Fan's Lifetime Reading Program. It really is an astonishing reading list!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 12:17:17 (PDT)

Thank you Jen, that was really very good and reenforces the opinion that this mania is a thinking woman's game........ But,( and I know I am being my usual maudlin self,) sometimes, I wish I was in lighter company, interested in forgettable men like Cruise and Timberlake. Surely such an attachment cannot have the same potency and I would easily shrug off the weekly interest and get on with life. Because this malady, this fascination with AR is so deeply rooted in the subconscious,in the spirit itself, feeding it constantly, it is very difficult to eradicate, almost impossible and as I have learned, the more one tries, the more intense the yearning, longing...whatever...I imagine that in time, whatever the self needs will be satisfied, the thirst will be quenched and we will awaken...satiated and passive, the world a little greyer but perhaps closer to the truth, as we know it.
Constance <madaboutron4@yahoo.comfoo>
NC USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 12:11:01 (PDT)

I really enjoyed reading the post from Lily (Chicago) and I also enjoyed the replies to her post. There is only part that I am a little confused about. I agree about all the wonderful qualities about Alan (great talented actor / handsome / sexy / intelligent / unique etc) but I am not sure what (Ali-Pat /Constance) meant when you said that Alan R is the best "teacher" you ever had. Can you elaborate on that part just a bit. Thanks
Claudette
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 12:01:43 (PDT)

One of his directors, I think it was Anthony Minghella, said in an interview that Alan is neurotic, and that acting completely heals him. Now, everyone is neurotic to a point, and actors are notorious for being deeply insecure and narcissistic, which are common neurotic traits. Directors deal with actors and actresses as a matter of course, so they're used to neurotic behaviour. Is Alan more obviously neurotic than the average actor? His neuroticisms must have been obvious to the director. The director's comment made me wonder how Alan behaves in 'real life'.
Cynthia
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 11:04:45 (PDT)

Hi Jen, how's the humidity? I used to live in MD but couldn't take the heat. Wonderful, thought-provoking piece. I will read yours and Lily's more than once. Clearly, when you choose a vocation that has you constantly travelling, you can't see your friends and loved ones often enough to sustain deep, intimate bonds. You can still maintain bonds, but you miss out on a certain level of intimacy. I don't feel as intimately bonded with my friend who lives in MD as I did when I was there, seeing her weekly. Imagine a mother who loves her kids but is an actress constantly working. She goes for months at a time not seeing them. Something will be lost there. Anyone who chooses a life in which they are frequently 'leaving' is making a decision in favor of their career that will create a deficit to some degree with their personal relationships. I feel sorry for the children of these people, but besides that it's a personal decision. Neither bad nor good, just one of life's choices. I'm glad AR made the choice he did.
Vera
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 10:30:49 (PDT)

Oh, my *I'm afraid* was for the person hawking his services on a GB where we're only interested in one man. LOL

We'll never reach a consensus here on which of Alan's scenes are passionate/romantic and which aren't and I think I won't strain my brain trying to explain it any more, because all I'll get is, "Well, I did find it passionate." and then where do we go from there? It's interesting to see all the viewpoints when no one is suggesting someone else is an idiot for not seeing things their way. There isn't a right or wrong in our perceptions of Alan's performances...that's why they're called opinions. ;~}
Harlii
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 10:26:55 (PDT)

Harlii, I'm not going to assume I know what you mean--what are you afraid of? Definitely, what is considered passionate is subjective. The kiss in Dark Harbor looked passionate, but I didn't feel the passion because emotionally I was squirming. I'd like a gay man's perspective, but of course, one might say it was and one might say it wasn't.
Stacie
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 10:15:11 (PDT)

Lily, thank you so much for your thought-provoking post about the "AR phenomenon." The logical thing to do--which people HAVE done--is to try and describe the demographics of AR fandom. And usually, it�s stated that Rickman fans tend to be a little older (30�s+), college-educated (or possessing great intellectual curiosity), professionals, a little more liberal in their politics, etc. In the beginning of my AR appreciation, it was sort of easy to accept this, even though I was an anomaly (being in my early teens when I �discovered� AR and this GB). I�m 26 now, and am still told how �young� I am, relatively speaking.

You said that you started out �by looking at the phrase that Alan Rickman is the thinking woman's heart-throb.� Brilliant place to start; also the best place to finish, IMO. I agree that most people would read that statement as �the educated/intellectual/professionally trained woman's sex symbol.� But I choose to give it a deeper meaning, and a much more universal application to AR fans.

I�ve learned from all my time on several different AR forums, including my own, that each film that is released draws a new crowd of people to AR. And it�s funny, too, how many times you hear people say that they noticed him in �Dogma� or �Harry Potter,� etc., but saw something in AR that prompted them to go out and rent/buy the remaining canon of his work. Something in his performance stood out to them, spoke to them to such a degree, that they behaved in a manner that they�re probably not used to doing with the average artist.

�I believe I've read in articles that AR is bothered and offended by such a narrowing of his following, and that it is sexist and diminishes his craft. Maybe it helps if we ALL think of it differently.�

I whole-heartedly agree!

And I agree with your suspicions that there are a number of Rickman fans out there who have achieved spectacular things professionally and personally. In fact, I know of several. But I also know of many who would call themselves �average� in terms of life achievements. They�ll tell you they haven�t done anything �special,� just found a life partner, perhaps raised children, worked a part-time job, learned a new art/craft. And yet both groups of women find themselves absorbed with AR and his work.

I believe that the characteristic that unites them is contained in that phrase you quoted above: That AR is the thinking woman�s heart-throb. I�d venture to say that many human beings prefer not to think about things. They�d rather follow national, cultural, or family tradition with regard to their life choices. It�s easier; it simplifies life, and lets you get on with it. Most of these people aren�t like this in EVERYTHING, but a few are. Many people are like this in certain areas of their lives, though. Then you have those people who think about everything (or almost everything), question the what�s and why�s of things. These people aren�t necessarily intellectuals or artists or professionals per se, nor are they always gifted with the ability to even put into words their deeper thoughts or feelings about a thing. But these thoughts/feelings/questions are there, swirling under the surface of daily life, and they emerge at times of stillness and silence, and the individual can then ponder them or try and seek out some information about them from another source.

I�ve also noted that these people tend to be more sensitive, both to their own emotion and the emotion of others. Their personalities may be very, very different (some may be super shy, others, very outgoing). But they all have this basic curiosity, this foundational questioning, and deeper sensitivity than the average person on the street.

This is my experience of AR fans in general. They tend to be these �thinking women.�

I am a little curious about your comment about Mr. Rickman having delayed or neglected his personal life. I don�t see this (perhaps others do?) Certainly any choice we make in life requires the sacrifice of its opposite; there can be no choice otherwise. You cannot, as people are so fond of saying, �have it all.� A person who deliberately sets out to make her own choices, to life her own life, will look at the situation, weigh both sides, and choose according to her personal priorities. Certainly there are many, many people who make choices without doing this, or who have misjudged the outcomes, or were misled by some thing or someone. This will affect how happy they are with the choices they have made, and we ought to have compassion for the people who find themselves in this situation. But it was still their choice, whether or not they made it with all the necessary information.

I believe that Mr. Rickman is a deliberate person. I think he chose the life he now leads, whatever sacrifices it entails. I don�t feel sorry for him, as some people do, for not having had children, having to be away from home a lot, etc. Rather, I respect him for choosing according to his priorities and according to those of his partner, and for being who he is and what he is because it is what fulfills him and makes him happy. That�s the best that you can wish for someone you care about.

�It is wonderfully satisfying to know that it takes a special vision to see the diamond of unusual brilliance in the carbon and that we are capable of such sight.�

Again, I agree totally. Also with this statement: � . . . he's handsome and truly compelling but not in any stereotypical way.�

I can�t speak to the parts that are directed at the more mature fan, but I will say that it�s a complex and fascinating thing, this Rick mania . . .or Rickmanitis . . . Or whatever you want to call it.

�The thinking woman�s heart-throb� indeed! I will go now, and have another think on it!

Thanks again!
Jen
MD USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 10:08:14 (PDT)

Hi! I discovered this amazing actor just a few months ago, in "Harry Potter". Then, I made some researches on Internet and I bought "Mesmer" which is absolutely fabulous. Whith the magnetism that Alan Rickman has naturally, this movie is one of the best I have never seen. Also, how could you resist his wonderful voice? Have a good day! Rita from Montreal
Rita <rocher@look.ca>
"Mesmer", - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 09:18:21 (PDT)

I'm afraid.
Harlii
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 09:11:35 (PDT)

Ad removed.

I suppose that what one person might consider a passionate hungry kiss might not be considered as such with another. But I have to weigh in on the Dark Harbor kiss. IMHO--the "almost" kiss that David gave to Alexis in the motel was much more believable than the one in the last scene. His performance in that particular scene has been the ONLY disappointment The Man has dished out.
Claudia
GA US - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 07:55:46 (PDT)

Constance, you mean there is an actual NAME for that kind of reaction? Documented by scholars and everything? Omigosh--that explains a lot, especially this enormous bibliography I am compiling! And I am on record as believing AR to be one of the best teachers I have ever had. Thanks for the info! My world is suitably rocked for the day.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 07:17:25 (PDT)

Harrison Ford is 60 and still sexy and still does passionate love scenes, but then he's American. (See Concerned's post below) Roger Moore IS British and he was up there when he was making the last of the Bond films and he's sexy and was passionate in his romantic scenes too. Pierce Brosnan, Timothy Dalton, etc. I could go on and on. So to make a general assessment that all Brits are more frigid on-screen than their American counterparts, isn't quite accurate. After all, it's mostly subjective as what's considered passionate varies from person to person.
Harlii
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 06:42:55 (PDT)

sorry ot: constance, thanks. email at work doesnt work, it seems. try mortianna02@yahoo.de thanks.
mortianna
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 06:13:08 (PDT)

Oh! Welcome Home Mortiana!!!! You've got mail!;~)
Constance (again...)
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 05:00:23 (PDT)

Lily:

Thank you for that most insightful analysis of the demographic/personality that make up this Rickmania. I am stunned for I have spent the last 18 months trying to figure out this phenomena for myself. I have come close with Carl G. Jung's interpretation of the Animus and have pretty much decided that AR is my animus, a teacher, a symbol, deep in the subconscious that brings out the best in me. The "why" I still don't get for I am happily married and have 4 beautiful children( externally very typical) but like what you described, I too, sacraficed years off my life in my twenties in persuit of more uncommon goals and so have also felt "apart" from conventional society. Anyway.... enough said but I do appreciate and enjoy what you post and am happy for your contributions to this GB.:~)
Constance
NC USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 04:58:17 (PDT)

Believe me, that word was supposed to be "believe".

One day I'll figure out this touch-pad..... The Queen of the Typos wishes you all a good day.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 04:09:41 (PDT)

toby i'm so sad to hear that you missed speaking to the man just because you were so wonderful to bring the champagne to us all.

i have not much to say about the play at the moment, may come later when the pictures in my head form somehow or other but just wanted to say that it was the best experience ever to go over there and see the play (twice) and meet you all at the stage door. it still is like a dream, although i have loads of pictures to prove it:-)

thanks to everyone who made me feel at home and with friends in nyc.it will always be a treasured experience.
mortianna
back in germany, very small country - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 04:09:23 (PDT)

Lily--a deeply insightful post. I will have to go over it a few times to absorb the full impact, but my gut feeling is that you are dead-on. There is a safe, satisfying feeling about being devoted to unattainable men, especially for women who have been deeply hurt in the past.

Anne/Manhattan--sounds like a refrigerator magnet I should have! Right next to the one of a woman, head in hands, bemoaning, "I can't beleve I forgot to have children!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 04:07:22 (PDT)

One of my favorite fridge magnets has a picture of a smiling woman in a '50s-looking Little Black Dress, caressing the back of an empty armchair; the caption reads, "She liked imaginary men best of all." Actors, to me, are imaginary men. And there are times - lots of times! - when they just beat the hell out of real ones.

I'm not going to write another review of Sunday's PL; it would echo Georgiana's. They were more on than I've ever seen them (with the exception of AR's singing, which was pretty sad), and the audience wildly enthusiastic.

When I asked anyone interested in getting together to email me, only Georgiana, Toby and Verena replied, but I met several other GBers at the stage door (Anne/Alexandria, Lynn/Portland, plus lurkers) and a few people that some of us knew from other sites. A group of ten ended up at TGI Friday (home of the $9 margarita) and that didn't break up till nearly 10:00 p.m. If anyone has a picture with me in it, please crop me out before you post or send to anyone!

One of our lurkers had made friends with a member of the crew and we were all chatting before the matinee. He said this cast was a pleasure to work with - great fun and no attitude. Everybody was sick at some point during the run, starting with AR - since they were all kissing each other on stage every night except for Alex Belcourt, and she's married to Adam Godley, they passed it around. AR looked tired at the stage door but happy - saw more genuine smiles tonight than at all my previous visits combined.

Celebrity sightings: As the lights went down and the music started, two young women came racing in and took the aisle seats next to me. One seemed very familiar but I couldn't place her - very pretty, jet-black hair, charming accent. We chatted a bit at intermission but I didn't ask who she was. After the show she came out the stage door, recognized me and smiled. I said something stupid like, "Should I know your name?" She said, "I'm in Oklahoma." Actually, she's the lead in Oklahoma - Josefina Gabrielle. I'm pretty sure I also saw Stanley Tucci, who's in Frankie and Johnny; he left by the stage door after the crowd had pretty much broken up.
Anne/Manhattan
- Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 01:22:10 (PDT)

The UK premiere of The Importance Of being Earnest took place in London last night, with one of its stars not in attendance. Colin Firth was absent due to filming in France. Since we know he's filming Love Actually, I think we can assume that France is where Alan has now gone.
Helen
Cheshire, UK - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 23:37:36 (PDT)

I'll still like Alan at 75, why not? I think he gets better and better with age, and besides, I'll be 61 then--no spring chicken myself!
Tami
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 22:40:27 (PDT)

My apologies to all you English people out there-The lack of "randiness" that is evidenced in Rickman's kissing scenes isn't because he's gay, it's because he's English...people of a certain age don't do the PDA's easily or naturally.
a concerned citizen
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 22:34:58 (PDT)

Maybe he has the shy man's horror of having a physiological response during work, with everyone and their brother watching. I think that he distances himself to avoid getting too involved-remember, he is English. Personally, I think that the furthest thing from his mind was a physiological response during Dark Harbor, which probably was "freeing" in a way. The director did note that both actors "dreaded" that scene, but both still showed up.
a concerned citizen
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 22:19:24 (PDT)

Sorry but I was reading and Brenda I think I know who youre talking about and she's not related to AR's siblings; yes she was with Alan for Pl closing. And I agree--everything is in his work--
Pearl
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 22:16:17 (PDT)

I didn't pick up on sexual chemistry between AR and ET in Judas Kiss. I'll try watching again.
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 21:12:07 (PDT)

I don't know, but I'm scared.
Vera
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 21:10:08 (PDT)

I had the same thought shortly before I read your post--the kiss at the end of Dark Harbor ispassionate. It's the only passionate kiss,(besides Rasputin), that I can think of. I got chills when I realized that. Remember when he said something like--it's all in the work, referring to all there is to know about him and his life--we can find it in his work. What the heck does that mean?
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 20:59:11 (PDT)

I've been trying to figure out an explanation for the "AR phenomenon" amongst us. Most of my thoughts apply to women over 40 years of age.

I started out by looking at the phrase that Alan Rickman is the thinking woman's heart-throb. We could also read that as the educated/intellectual/professionally trained woman's sex symbol. I believe I've read in articles that AR is bothered and offended by such a narrowing of his following, and that it is sexist and diminishes his craft. Maybe it helps if we ALL think of it differently. I suspect there are quite a few who follow Rickman's work who have accomplished a thing or two, and maybe have been among the first to enter a profession(s). Or, maybe worked hard enough to get the door open for others but were blocked from much success in their own career. I'd also include in the group divorcees and widows who've raised families on their own.

I suspect a number of women in this group have worked so hard that they have delayed (neglected) a personal life. An isolating experience. I know you all see a similar narrative in Rickman (& his career) as we've been allowed to glimpse it. It is wonderfully satisfying to know that it takes a special vision to see the diamond of unusual brilliance in the carbon and that we are capable of such sight. It reflects well on us that we have the ability to really "see" and appreciate the unidentified true hero of the piece. In turn, it takes a special ability "to see us" in order to really "get us." We prefer "rarity." At this point, we might crave universal acclaim only in fantasy and would go to some lengths to avoid it in reality. We find it more appealing to be above the fray, just as we prefer to be above the traditional "movie star" (although we simultaneously crave it). It's satisfying that he's not an "obvious" star; he's handsome and truly compelling but not in any stereotypical way. Might the same be said of women who read this GB? Or, Guestbook or no, turned out to see PL? (I know the night I attended it was amazing to see how many pairs of women of a "certain age" were in attendance.) It's a parallel world.

It wouldn't surprise me if the women who've "noticed" AR, haven't also found themselves in these circumstances: "Oh, you want me to write that appeal brief and not miss a beat what with going into labor with my first child? Of course I'll do it! (I have much to prove.)" "Ah, you want me to publish those articles, teach those huge lectures of 300+ students and it would be best if, unlike those 20 guys in the department, I would forego marriage in order to prove my dedication to philosophy/history/anthropology and, thereby, show that I might, only just might, be worthy of tenure." Things have moved on a bit from those truly dark, early days but probably early experiences like these left their mark, and are returned to in thoughts time and again. Discovering and appreciating Alan Rickman, who is from a similar age group, is a way of re-living the experience, and righting it, with the specialness of the person going through the obstacle course being acknowledged, at last, and getting his due from none other than us. (It possibly has to be a male in order to squash all the competitive urges.) It might also explain why people get so agitated when its perceived that he's been attacked. It is also entirely satisfying that he is not quite perfect and, therefore, really seems approachable (he's like us) unlike a routine teen prom-king, but it is also thrilling that he is unobtainable. The pathways for a habitual masochism were laid down long ago. We get the right kind of push-pull, approach-avoidance here. Years ago, a couple of Guestbookers commented on the presence of numerous parafilias (perversions) in Rickman movies. The attraction to him is a variation on that theme. As Marialis stated so well, one has to be a romantic and a bit of a masochist in order to appreciate all of his roles. The approachable has gotten really quite far in his career and in the pursuit of excellence so that he is nearly apollonian...it even fits with the leonine adjectives and appearance used and noted here. Thus, it is stunning that at the end of the PL run he would allow people to hug him and give him a kiss on the cheek, while always stopping for autographs. (Psychologically, or instinctively, very insightful of him, a perfect cure, don't be so elusive and punishing. Surprise them with acceptance!)

Historically, this is the 11th hour for a last great romance among this aging population. There really isn't much time left. (Opportunities? Well, don't make me laugh.) This is a safe romance. (Like no one thought of that!) I think there is a demographic factor here, both in terms of the sector of the play & movie-going population, its accomlishments and age, and to whom some have attached themselves, Alan Rickman, which his age and all. We've changed the narrative just a bit from the poor, orphaned governess in gray with the S&M tendencies of an Eyre novel. But we are still close to Me, Jane; Rickman, he's Mr. Rochester.
Lily
Chicago, IL - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 20:29:35 (PDT)

Didn't realize Madonna would have known the meaning of the words "randomly" and "profusely".
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 19:35:34 (PDT)

The other day someone here was asking about "council estates"-well apparently Madonna, of all people, has quite a bit to say about them. Her comments have ticked off a LOT of people it seems-here is a small part of her comments in the new Vanity Fair magazine->>>>>>>>>>>>>>In an interview with Vanity Fair magazine, she said her love affair with London's gardens and architecture was far from wilting. "I love the way the city looks, minus all the council estates (public housing projects) randomly and profusely built up everywhere," Madonna complained.>>>>>>>>>>>Just for the record the article stated that Madonna lives in a mansion in the Kensington section of London.
Kathy
Lewiston, Me - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 19:08:15 (PDT)

i love alan. he is my gosh darn fav. actor..
reida
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 19:02:49 (PDT)

Regarding Alan Rickmans brother-on the evening I saw PL in July, Rima had just flown in and she was standing on the sidewalk with another lady and she told the lady that "his brother is flying in this week". I assumed she meant AR's brother, but since I wasn't sure he even had a brother at that time, I didn't post her comment. I am sort of interested to see if his brothers resemble him or if they are like my family, none of them look alike.
Kathy
Lewiston, Me - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 18:07:53 (PDT)

Harlii,

Sorry, but for some reason, my e-mail isn't working correctly. It won't let me send to you. Maybe you can try e-mailing me. gillejc@auburn.edu or alvin415@aol.com, preferably the Auburn.edu addy would be best.

Thanks alot and again, sorry I couldn't send your way.
Jayne Claire
AL - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 17:42:34 (PDT)

Oh Sally!!!!!!!! Unloading all your AR videos? Don't tell me you have found a "cure"?????? An Antidote?

Why DON'T I want to get the recipe from you? LOL ;~)
Constance (wishing Sally all the best)
Cary, NC USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 16:46:08 (PDT)

Ali-Pat--you have a very good point. Holbrook was pure evil wasn't he?

Oh Sally, London sounds like an AR yard sale--hope your not leaving us.
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 16:26:15 (PDT)

Sorry for the dbl post...J.C. e-mail me. I have a few things I can unload on you.
Harlii <l m h p r 0 0 at knology dot netfoo>
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 16:21:09 (PDT)

I don't know who can verify this, but I heard that AR's brother was there. It's possible the *Mrs. Rickman* was his wife. I'm told the brother is quite good looking. I was under the impression someone got a picture. Not sure who. I'm sure someone industrious will track it down if it exists.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 16:15:36 (PDT)

Christine I went to PL in June. I don't know how Kitty Rickman is related to Alan I didn't ask her. By her name and her looks she must be. We only chatted a little about him(and Snape!)in the street. She was very kind and charming. Theater people addressed her "Mrs. Rickman". I saw Alan treated her kindly. He didn't take the car and walked with her instead.
Brenda
USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 16:09:18 (PDT)

(Warning: VERY long post ahead) I�m not too sure as to whether this is OT, but I though it was interesting�

- taken from the book �Angels A-Z� by James R. Lewis and Evelyn Dorothy Oliver

Metatron

Metatron is one of the most important angels in the Western tradition. According to Johann Eisenmenger, Metatron represesnts the supreme angel of death, to whom God gives orders as to which souls will be taken that day. Metatron transmits these orders to his subordinates Gabriel and Sammael.
He is further believed to be in charge of the sustenance of the world. In the Talmud and Targum, Metatron is the link between God and humanity. Among various missions and deeds attributed to Metatron is the staying of Abraham�s hand at the point of sacrificing Isaac, although this missions has also been imputed to Michael, Zadkiel, Tadhiel, and, of course, to the angel of the Lord.
Metatron is though to reside in the seventh heaven, and, with possible exception of Anafiel, is the tallest angel in heaven. The Zohar computes his size as �equal to the breadth of the whole world,� which in rabbinic lore was the size of Adam before he sinned.
Metatron is generally recognized as the heavenly scribe who records everything that happens in the ethereal archives. In the tale of the marriage of God and Earth, told in the Alphabet of Ben Sira, God demands from Earth the �loan� of Adam for one thousand years. Upon agreement to the loan, God writes out a formal receipt, which is on deposit �to this day� in the archives of Metatron.
Metatron is the first - and also the last - of the ten archangels of the Briatic world. In terms of seniority, he is actually the youngest angel in the heavenly host. He has been variously given the role of king of angels, prince of the divine face of presence, chancellor of heaven, angel of the covenant, chief of the ministering angles, and the lesser YHWH (the tetragrammaton, or Yahweh).
The meaning of the name Metatron is unclear. Rabbi Eleazer of Worms (Germany)�thought it derived from the Latin metator (a guide or measurer). Hugo Odeberg�also interprets the name as �one who occupies the throne next to the divine throne.��
According to one legend, Metatron was once the patriarch Enoch, who, when chosen by God to be the writer of truth, was transformed into a fiery angel with thirty-six wings and countless eyes. Most Talmudic authorities, however, do not identify Enoch with Metatron. The Tanhuna Genesis claims he was originally the archangel Michael.
Metatron has also been identified as Satan; as the dark angel who wrestled with Jacob at Peniel (Genesis 32); as the watchman (Isaiah 21); as Logos; as Uriel; as the evil Sammael; as an angel of liberation; and as the Shekinah (the female principle of God in the world).
According to the Cabala, Metatron is the angel who led the children of Israel through the wilderness after the Exodus, whereas in occult writings he is depicted as the twin borther or half-brother of the angel Sandalphon. Metatron has also been identified as Isaiah�s suffering servant, the Messiah of Christian theology, and has been credited with the authorship of Ps. 37:25, according to the Talmud Yebamoth 16b. The Zohar speaks of the Metatron as Moses� rod �from one side of which comes life and from the other, death.�

In Jewish lore Metatron is the angel who caused another angel to announce, before the Flood, that God would destroy the world, whereas, according to Talmud Abodah Zarah 3b, Metetron is the teacher of prematurely dead children in Paradise.
"Lurker #425"
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 16:07:57 (PDT)

Hi folks and old friends. Long time no see! Hope you are all fine and surviving, even though PL is finally over. Seems to me as if it's been on for several years, not just the one! So, all good things come to an end...and I, for one, have decided to make some space around here so am offering the following videos for sale. Contact me at email address if interested. First come, obviously first served. January Man; Judas Kiss; Rasputin; Closet Land; Dark Harbour; Mesmer; Help, I'm a Fish; S and S. (There may be some others at a later date). Bye for now, Yours Truly xxxxxx.
Sally <sallyphillips@btinternet.comfoo>
London, UK - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 16:06:14 (PDT)

Ali-Pat

I know what you mean. The little saxaphone (sorry if I just butchered that spelling) deal is what I'm mostly looking for! That is my favorite kind of music! (How many 18 year olds do you hear say that?) I've found the other CDs you were talking about and am probably about to buy one of them!

Thanks for the heads up Ali-Pat and everyone else for the info. I'll be sure and try.
Jayne Claire
AL - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 15:34:43 (PDT)

I don't know, Stacie. The kiss at the end of Dark Harbor was pretty passionate! hehehehehehe!
Lori
USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 15:32:06 (PDT)

Oh, I dunno, Claudia--I kinda thought Hal Holbrook was worth watching. I also liked the Lizard-man.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 15:28:31 (PDT)

Jayne Claire, I have been enjoying a recording of Noel Coward's songs based on a musical which tells the story of his and Gertrude Lawrence's lives on stage. The musical is called If Love Were All and starred Harry Groener and Twiggy (yes, really!). They sing "Someday I'll Find you as well as "If Love Were All" plus most of Noel Coward's most famous hits. It is available on CD from Varese Sarabande and was produced in 1999.

There are also several recordings of Noel Coward singing his own songs available, but the one I latched onto includes two excerpts of dialog from the original production of Private Lives (the Coward/Lawrence production). This CD is called I'll See You Again and was put out by Academy Sound and Vision Ltd. in 1994.

I am also told that Neil Tennant of the Pet Shop Boys produced a CD in 1998 that contains covers of Noel Coward songs by contemporary pop musicians. It is called Twentieth Century Blues but I don't know which label it is on.

Now, what I would like to know is, what was that catchy little saxophone ditty they played every night right before the curtain went up? I assume it is a Coward song, but I have not yet found it in my musical travels.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 15:23:57 (PDT)

Jayne Claire, try www.half.com I have always had very good luck with them.
Juliana
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 15:11:52 (PDT)

Stacie--AR and ET were the ONLY ones in Judas Kiss that I was interested in as well. But they did do a heck of a job in keeping my interest up until the end.
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 15:06:12 (PDT)

J.C. try Amazon and eBay. That's where I found most of mine. There are some CME and CL vids up at eBay now.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 15:00:44 (PDT)

Lee- War Eagle! I had no idea you were an Auburn alum. I feel like I have family in here now.

Thanks for the info about B&N. I'll try tonight. Most of the searches I've found have the song "Somday I'll Find You" and maybe another or two, but besides that one, I'm looking for the Private Lives melody. As I understand, Coward wrote it himself so I'm sure it's rather rare, but darn it, I want it! And when I get my mind set on something...

Yeah, so anyway, thanks again for the into and I will definately try that tonight. I ordered "Three Plays" by Noel Coward offline which includes Private Lives so maybe that will shed some insite into the music; it is supposed to come in tomorrow and Amazon hasn't let me down yet.

Yall, where can I get Judas Kiss, Close My Eyes, and/or Closest Land? I have tried my heart and soul out (good thing I still have a bit of determination left in me) but I cannot manage to find them. NO! I won't stop! I'll find them! I promise Alan! I'll find you!
Jayne Claire
AL - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 14:19:17 (PDT)

Hello again!!

I was away for SO long, holidays abroad with no computer or internet in sight... now I really had a hard time to read all the posts here!

Well, I'm one of the poor souls who didn't have a chance to see PL but I'm very grateful for all the wonderful reports about the performances and wanted to thatn all the busy writers for sharing their PL nights and backstage meetings with AR with me/us!!

I'm sure some of us feel for of empty now that PL is no more and we can't get any new reports.... we've all been sort of used to getting information about his mood, how he looks and all that.

Now we have to wait for HP 2 in Nov. and much later "Love Actually", and hopefully for the release of John Gissing.

By the way, as far as I know PL is not recorded on tape. I read about somebody asking AR if is was and he seemed to be sort of offended and said that it will not be recorded... does anybody have different information about this? Hm.

I hope that AR does not suffer from a cold and if he does that this will vanish soon. Hopefully he's going on vacation for some time after this long run of PL. That man needs a break!
Sunny
Germany - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 13:36:35 (PDT)

Lynne, Alan must have been feigning surprise. The man knows. What coffee shop did Alan go to? What time of day was it? Just wondering what his day/schedule is like. Don't worry, none of us are going to camp out there, (where is that dratted tent?). He must be back in the UK by now, anyway.(Flashlight? check, air mattress, check...).
Vera
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 13:35:41 (PDT)

Harlii, but is there an age at which point your heat for them will lessen? 95? If they're lucky to live that long...I also like the prelude to the kiss in Mesmer, just wish there had been a payoff. Claudia, I didn't like Judas Kiss, it was boring for me, I didn't pay attention to it well enough,(just stared at Alan). I'll have to watch it again. Did anyone else sense sexual tension between AR and ET in Judas Kiss? Lee, thanks for the Starbucks cartoon. Does anyone here not have a Starbucks nearby? They're in the supermarkets here in California, the carts have cupholders...we have three in our town and counting...
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 13:28:56 (PDT)

WOw you have a lucky Husband...WOWOWOW
BEv
GA usa - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 13:18:20 (PDT)

My husband and I saw PL several times. I'm a big fan of Alan's, even though my husband doesn't seem to see why I have such an attraction for Alan. He's simply clueless even though he admits that Alan is a good actor. So, who does my husband run into when he went out for coffee, but Alan. They struck up a conversation and my husband told Alan how much of a fan I was. He said that Alan seemed flattered. My husband commented to him about all the women who flocked around the stage door to meet him. He said that Alan acted surprised to find out that so many women found him attractive. I can just imagine the way my husband made that comment to him. It probably came out something like, "You are one lucky man, what with all those women following you around." I only wish I had been there.
Lynne
NYC, - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 13:10:21 (PDT)

Jayne Claire--You don't sound like an idgit! :) I'm sorry if my londontheatre.co.uk info was confusing. As far as I can tell the info at that site is just a listing of recordings, compiled by a guy at MIT. I've been looking at Barnes & Noble's website just now, though, and I just heard a VERY SHORT audio clip of the beginning of "Someday I'll Find You."!!! Their web address is http://ebooks.barnesandnoble.com If you go to that page, click on "Music" in the top row of tabs, and at the next screen, type in "Someday I'll Find You" in the Quick Search window. Select "song" from the drop-down menu, and click on Search. It will take you to a window with a list of CDs featuring that song. The clip I heard is on "If Love Were All" (catalog #6083; Varese Records). It is also on "Gertie" (Gertrude Lawrence) and on the Doris Day CD "I Have Dreamed/Listen to Day". I would advise checking each CD to make sure it is Noel Coward's song and not one with the same title by someone else. These CDs can be ordered online. I also did a search by typing "Noel Coward" in the Quick Search window and choosing "Artist" in the drop down menu. It took me to two listings of CDs of his songs ("Someday I'll Find You" is on "Songs of Noel Coward" and some of the others; click on "and more" for more listings). I would read the reviews and listen to some of the audio clips to make sure the sound quality's what you want. The reason I suggested going to a Barnes & Noble store is because I personally feel better buying something in person than ordering it; I recall the days of knowledgeable salespeople in record and bookstores who knew their stock! I'm going to try to get some more info from the music librarian here when she comes in this afternoon; I'm also going to Barnes & Noble this afternoon and I can ask them what CDs they have. Books-A-Million may have a similar CD collection to B&N's. Since you're in Auburn you might be able to get some info from the music librarian at the university library, or from someone in the music or theater department. There was a wonderful music professor named Claude Gossett when I was in school there, but that's YEARS ago! I don't know if he's still there. If you want me to see what else I can find out, please just let me know. I enjoy this sort of search(used to be a librarian). War Eagle! (and hello to Samford Tower) -- Lee (charmquark02@yahoo.com)
Lee
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 12:13:21 (PDT)

I agree that just about the only actress that generates any chemistry with AR on screen is Emma Thompson. So much so that when people see Sense & Sensibility without knowing the story they're amazed when both end up married to the "wrong" people.
Magda
Canada - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 11:07:17 (PDT)

Oh but Stacie--you didn't feel the sexual tension between AR and ET in Judas Kiss? I do hope there is some action between those two in "Love Actually"! You are right about the Rasputin kiss being the most hungry and passionate of all the AR on screen kisses...and this coming from a TMD fanatic.
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 11:01:10 (PDT)

Stacie, you bring up a lot of interesting points! I know that I still love Sean Connery, Anthony Hopkins, Martin Sheen, Michael Douglas, etc. The fact that they are older actors doesn't lessen my regard for them. I've mentioned here in the past that I prefer older actors, so as my favorites age, it can only get better.

About the kisses and lack of...romance/connection, I'm sure that's all subjective. I agree with you about the cases you mentioned, but someone else may have found those scenes totally romantic. I don't think I've watched a scene of Alan's where there is what I consider a romantic/passionate kiss (gazing over to my video collection, scanning for one possible instance). Now, I really liked the...prelude to the kiss in Mesmer. The kiss itself, to me, was nothing to write home about. But the hesitancy before the kiss was a great lead into the actual kiss. Just my two cents.
Harlii
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 11:00:10 (PDT)

Inger--I love the poem! Stacie--A couple of days after I read your post about stars at Starbucks, I saw this cartoon . . . Two extraterrestrials are approaching Earth in their spaceship. Some big cities stick up out of one of the continents, and above one of the buildings is a huge Starbucks sign. One extraterrestrial says to the other: "'Star bucks.' How convenient!--a currency-exchange center!" ("Frank & Ernest")
Lee
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 10:46:59 (PDT)

Thank you so much for the posts about the last night of PL. It makes me feel like I was there. The posts make me feel nostalgic and sad, even though I wasn't going around thinking about PL and the last night. Such is the power of the written word. I just watched TMD again recently. That kiss, when Nina says, "Can I kiss you?", is totally emotionless and sexless. Was the point of that supposed to be, sex with a dead man is unfulfilling--find a live one? I know his lips were cold. Later, he warms them, and they kiss--he passively receives her kiss and immediate fade-out. Very unsatisfying. In Mesmer, again, he's kind of passive in the kissing scenes. Rasputin is better, but he looks like an ancient Russian monk. I'd like to see Alan, (without a gross beard), grab someone who's not his daughter, someone he's in love with, and kiss them passionately. In Love Actually he's paired with Emma Thompson, I don't sense any sparks between those two. They're like brother and sister. Who knows though, through the magic of acting, maybe I'll get my romantic scene...
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 10:36:02 (PDT)

LOL Stacie--I'm in for the long haul!
Claudia
GA US - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 10:31:02 (PDT)

I bet Alan is sleeping like he's never slept before. Anyway, his mother died while he was making Winter Guest, I believe. In one of the interviews that I've read on the internet his mother's death is mentioned. Sorry, as usual, I don't remember which one. What age do you all think Alan will reach that will prompt some fall off in the number of hot-blooded female fans? He has said that he never wants to stop acting. When he's 75, will this type of internet adulation still exist? If it does, will it be about him at 75, or about the past?
Stacie
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 10:21:37 (PDT)

Good afternoon,mesdames.

1.Alan�s mother died? When??? I had no idea...

2. Does anybody know where I could get tickets for HP 2 in London?

3. Lori,thank you for your thank you ;)

4. In my opinion is it more interesting to discuss about AR things,even if we discuss whether it�s private or not.Things like *I heard a rumour...bla bla* or *I saw him wearing this and that and I thought:What a terrible taste!* And if you were not interested in it,you wouldn�t read...or even answer.Ok,it�s gossip (?) ,but hey,that makes him interesting too!
vee
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 07:39:49 (PDT)

Maxine - If you'd like to see some sample Snappy shots, I think I still have a few that a friend sent some time ago. All were taken from VHS playbacks at standard speed - some were quite good and some were lousy. Email agilhuly "at" gibsondunn "dotcom" if interested.
Anne/Manhattan
- Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 05:35:40 (PDT)

Toby, from CT, U.S.A., thank you so much for your report here on this GB. I think it is so wonderful that PL did so well in the U.K.and the states! Somehow I know he received your gifts, and maybe will respond somehow. That is the type of person he is.O/T it is a trying time in N.Y at the moment and all my thoughts are with you and I am so glad that AR was able to be in N.Y with PL. This is a wonderful city. Keep smiling N.Y!!
Barbara the Australian <hermione(underscore )3@hotmail.comfoo>
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 02:54:08 (PDT)

Goodness! Two advertisers in 24 hours on the GB! What is going on here? Is there anyone out there apart from me who feels that companies seem to be getting increasingly desperate in their attempts to 'be on our radar'? And what is worse, its all the big name companies, established brands etc who seem to be screaming the loudest? hello - I've already heard of you! If I don't like Nescafe coffee or McDonalds now, I ain't going to change my mind just because I see your logo everywhere!

So. Were it possible, I'd like to tell any potential to advertisers to leave this GB alone - its for AR and trying to sell your product here will only make us look elsewhere just because you annoyed us!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 00:17:07 (PDT)

Hi everyone - Just returned from a nice vacation and have been reading some the most recent messages. Suzanne, I have emailed you in regards to the article. Please let me know if you have received it.

To Chris (NJ), we must be neighbors. I noticed that you posted a link to the article that my son wrote (since deleted). I am sorry, but I would rather not have his picture on the internet. Thank you for posting it for others to see. I am going to see if there is way that we can just post the article.

Also, when I went to the stage door, last week, I mentioned the article to Alan, and asked him if I could send it to him in London. His answer: "oh really, sure". I hope that he likes it. Thanks for all of the wonderful posts.
Linda
NJ USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 22:05:38 (PDT)

Toby, Thanks for your report. I was there too and I am glad to know what was on Jimmy's sign now. How long did it take for Alan to come out of the stage door after the play ended? I did not go to the door because I was afraid it would take forever being the last night and all. Thanks
M
NY - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 21:31:44 (PDT)

Here�s my report from the closing performance of �Private Lives�. I thought the cast outdid themselves. They were lively and effervescent. I didn�t notice any missing lines. AR extended some of his more physical scenes, which could have been interpreted as a little �over the top�, but because he looked like he was having so much fun, I love it. Georgiana is right - he probably is losing his voice. His voice was a little raspy and he spoke his song rather than singing it. He is rumored to be fighting the flu. Even if his voice is overused, it�s nothing a good rest won�t cure. The audience got them all back for a third curtain call. During the third curtain call, the stage door man, Jimmy, came out with a cardboard sign which he displayed to the cast but not to the audience. Later at the stage door, he was talked into showing us all the sign. It said, �We love you and we�ll miss you very much. Jimmy�.

The stage door was a mob scene. None of us recalled seeing such a big crowd at any previous performance. AR focused on signing the kids� things. Although he gave it an honest effort, he didn�t get to everyone, including me. He finally said �enough and good night� and went back into the theatre.

Not getting any face time at the stage door was obviously a disappointment for me. I had a bottle of champagne and a book for him which I managed to give to Jimmy to give to him after he went back inside. So I have no idea if he got my goodies. If he did, he certainly doesn�t know who they came from. I suspect the bottle of champagne was consumed by someone since the stage door hallway was packed with people. I hope someone appreciates and puts to good use the home-made/designed wine cooler that went with the bottle. I gave him a book of ETA Hoffman stories with a recommendation that �Rath Krespel� would make a superb role for him. I guess that the only way I�ll ever know if he received and read the book is if he makes something of one of those classic stories - fat chance.

Now for the good news. The best part of the whole closing night experience was meeting a bunch of really wonderful interesting fun people, of whom most are associated with this Guestbook as �lurkers� or �posters�. Even I, a customarily socially impaired person, managed to get connected. Those of us sitting in the first couple of rows probably were highly visible while getting acquainted before curtain and during intermission. We all chatted before, during and after AR�s appearance at the stage door. We toasted the play with the second bottle of champagne. A lot of pictures were taken - I did the sparkling wine, others did the pictures. I hope they all get posted because some of the previewed digital pictures were fabulous. About 10 of us went to dinner at TJ Friday�s on Broadway and got to know each other better. We had folks from Maine, Ohio, Texas, Connecticut and Germany, and perhaps other places that I somehow missed. Isn�t it marvelous that even if the man doesn�t know most of us from Adam, what a wonderful catalyst he has been for bringing us together.

Toby
Newtown, CT US - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 21:21:48 (PDT)

Georgiana, thank you for that link. What an excellent movie that is going to be. I'm looking forward more to Love Actually than to Harry Potter. I thought Bridget Jones was well-written and it's the same writer. I know we all find Alan Rickman vaguely attractive, and Colin Firth and Liam Neeson are okay-looking. All excellent actors. Alan Rickman of course the creme de la creme. Hugh Grant and AR are excellent at comedy. I think of RHPOT as a comedy, at least Alan's performance is, and it's fantastic. I love his body movements after the witch says, "Something vexes you". This is going to be a film worth seeing.
Vera
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 20:43:02 (PDT)

I agree with the comments about picking apart posts. If this GB is "all in good fun" as has been said earlier then the unkind remarks (such as I'm sure it was more personal for you than for Alan) are unecessary. Sorry to the folks who received unkind remarks simply because they responded to my original posting. I can understand it if someone said something nasty about Alan Rickman but that was not the case. I am used to the "tough" streets of NYC, but it can get pretty tough in here too! Good night all.
MOD
Queens, NY - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 20:13:27 (PDT)

Jasmine: It has been reported that Alan Rickman has three siblings. His oldest brother, David, was born in 1945, and is a Graphic Designer. Alan is the second child in the family. He has a younger brother, Michael, born in 1947, who is a Tennis Pro. His youngest sibling is sister Sheila, born in 1950. Sheila has been reported to have two daughters, Amy and Claire. Alan has mentioned his nieces briefly in interviews. He appears to be a doting uncle to them.

Again, this information is second-hand. Alan Rickman, to my knowledge, has never talked publicly about his family members. Pictures only exist of his sister, Sheila, who has accompanied Alan to celebrity functions.

I hope this information offers some clarity on the matter of Alan Rickman's family.

Georgiana: Thanks for keeping everyone updated with the latest news on the Rickman front. I, for one, greatly appreciate your efforts in this area.
Kimberly
MI USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 20:08:13 (PDT)

Liam Neeson joins the cast of "Love Actually." See News page.
Georgiana <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 18:59:36 (PDT)

Yes Claudia, of course the "something wonderful" was more personal for me. How ridiculous for you to think I meant anything else! I would wager that AR means something special to all of us, for different reasons. He said in the CR interview, "I want to turn a key in the hearts and minds of somebody." I simply shared with him my own personal experience of that. Is your purpose here only to pick apart every post to find fault? Thanks to all those who sent me nice mails, you know who you are. My faith in humanity is restored by your kindness...
Tami <chapman.1@nd.edufoo>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 18:47:21 (PDT)

Perhaps Kitty is his neice. I do believe he has (at least) one.

I know many people who know who Alan Rickman is. Of course I'm involved in theatre and film clubs. I even have a couple of guy friends who are fans. I must admit that their mostly not quite as enthusiastic as some of his female fans, but, nevertheless, they exist!
Britt <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Misery - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 18:42:39 (PDT)

Oh. Oh. Oh! I have a really interesting thing that I know about Alan, but I can't tell you. You can only know if you know what I am talking about. This secret is SOO interesting. It would be wrong for me to tell you, so I won't tell you.

Doesn't it just piss you off? If your not going to tell us, then don't say anything at all. I was clawing at my face reading your post. (My post was just an example. I don't really have any "secret thing" about AR.)
Eileen
You know who you are. This goes out to everyone., England - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 18:38:58 (PDT)

Mrs. Rickman-- A sister maybe?? Does he even have siblings?

Why isn't Rickman's name recognizable?? He has come out in many different movies as roles. No one knows his name. He is always "The terrorist from Die Hard" or "The Sherrif in RHPOT" or "The scary guy from HP, you know, Snape". No one I know (aside from online) knows who he is.
Jasmine
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 18:22:06 (PDT)

Brenda -- are you the same Brenda who sat in front of me at PL on the Sat., Aug. 24th matinee? I leaned over and spoke to you (or someone else named Brenda).
Okay, I give up... who is Kitty/Mrs. Rickman? A sister-in-law, or are you speaking of Rima? And if not RH, how the heck would you know who she was? I don't mean that in a mean or disbelieving way, just curious.

Ali-Pat -- I find the "automatic translations" on Google to be pretty amusing. Here's a link to a translation (from German back to English) of the article "Rickman the Warm-hearted". My favorite part: the line "And he loves to daydream: 'Give me a window and I'll stare out it'" becomes: "And it loves conference areas: 'Give me a window and I become out-rigid'." Heehee. Except on rollercoasters: "Everything shrinks there." Oh dear.
Christine
USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 18:19:59 (PDT)

Barnes and Noble? IN AUBURN,AL? You're kiddin! LoL Haven't seen one yet although there is a Books A Million about five or ten miles away. So, on the London Theater Guide, is there any way to order a CD or so off that? I'm a bit confused. Sorry if I sound like a complete idgit.
Jayne Claire
AL - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 18:07:36 (PDT)

Alan's mother died a while ago, and he's not married. So who is Mrs. Rickman?
Vera
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 18:01:17 (PDT)

Claire, lovely piccies! The one of Ed is especially nice.
Cindie
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 16:40:31 (PDT)

I didn't know that one about the stalkers Anon. Man I hope I'm not considered one for talking to Mrs. Rickman! We met Kitty by the stage door when we went to see PL. She's very attractive and was very kind to us. This time my friend went alone and saw her again in the theater.
Brenda
USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 16:39:06 (PDT)

For Jayne Claire - PL songs - The London Theatre Guide Online lists cast recordings on CD. You can look them up by composer. Their site is at www.londontheatre.co.uk/londontheatre/castrecordings/cdlistingscomposers.htm Some recordings of Noel Coward songs are listed. musicroom.com lists "The Essential Noel Coward Songbook," which includes "Someday I'll Find You" and lots of other Coward songs. Their price is in pounds sterling but has a currency converter button. If you are in AL and anywhere near a Barnes & Noble, they can usually order recordings and books that are in print. Hope this helps!
Lee
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 16:09:52 (PDT)

I paid a visit to the Licoln Center Library archives, based on information posted here some time ago (thank you to whoever that was). From what I understand, LLD was never filmed in entirety. Only 2 scenes exist and are available for viewing. They are wonderful and worth the extreme "hoop jumping" they required of us. We found the staff to be unhelpful, unfriendly, (the only rudeness we encountered in a week in NYC) with several security checks, and a form to filled out requiring information just short of a dna sample. The form asked the reason for viewing, and our answer was rejected. We asked for what answer would be appropriate and got a silent stare. A very kind young man quietly whispered to us "You are doing research for a paper,", which turned out to an acceptable reason. The scenes were displayed on computer terminals. We never came in any contact with anything to steal, but still had to go through more security checks to leave. The scenes are yummy!
Kat H
Kent, OH USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 15:25:07 (PDT)

Lurker #425 your my hero. Well right after AR and Edna St. Vincent Millay!
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Misery - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 14:45:33 (PDT)

Harlii, to answer your question, non related AR chit-chat is not encouraged. Sure, the occasional off topic (OT) post will appear, and that's fine. It's not just a matter of bandwidth use (though it's been sky high the last half year), but that primarily, people come here to read and have discussions about AR and anything related. So, yes, if you and others would like to chat about non related AR things, the Instant Messaging, etc. is an excellent idea.

Suzanne <Suz@mail.usa.com or webmistress@alanrickman.orgfoo>
TX USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 14:31:18 (PDT)

To those who didn't see PL: Every broadway show has been videotaped and archived for future reference (found this out while checking out another actor's theater resume). The thing I'm not too sure about is where. I'm not too sure, but I think the Lincoln Center as well as the NYC Public Library have copies. With Lincoln Center, one has to schedule a viewing (I think)...not too sure about the library, though. I read somewhere on the GB that the library was having trouble locating their copy of 'Les Liasons Dangereuses' with AR...oh well, something to think about if anybody is planning to visit the city...
"Lurker #425"
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 13:43:53 (PDT)

Hey Sue! Over here it seems more people (I know) recognize AR from Die Hard. Hardly none of them (co-workers, friends) know him from S&S, or even GQ or Dogma, which is more recent. I'll name all the recent stuff, then finally I'll say, "You know, the terrorist in Die Hard." and they're like, "Ohhhhhhhhh, HIM!! Yeah!" LOL

However, I do have about 3 friends who'd seen TMD, CL, and CME. And at the time, even *I* didn't know about those movies. And one of the guys who'd seen CL and was very knowledgeable about the whole Amnesty thing, was a punk rock/jazz musician and I was very surprised. It is interesting to think about AR and his popularity/fan base...how we all got hooked and how we're spreading his name around.
Harlii
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 13:42:38 (PDT)

Interesting little tidbit on the WKWYL skit--the magazine that AR was holding had his lines in it. I thought it an amazing talent to be able to pull that part off in what was apparently little time to prepare. I mean his accent, facial expressions, everything was right on target!
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 13:42:22 (PDT)

Ok, that's it, it is absolutely driving me mad! I can't sleep! I can't eat! I can't think straight...

Is there anywhere to find the music from Private Lives? Those tunes are so INCREDIBLE and I love that type of music. I could listen to that for the rest of my life! Aside of Alan's voice, anyway...

I've searched high and wide and only found a few clips of the songs Someday I'll Find You, but I was mostly looking for the main background music, aside of the rest of it. Can anyone help? I wouldn't say I'm desperate, but the fact that I can't eat, sleep, study, MY COLLEGE EDUCATION DEPENDS ON THIS! sort of.

Sorry for the pleading and whining.
Jayne Claire
AL - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 13:24:15 (PDT)

Glad the attempted explanation was some help. I think you were brave to even attempt understanding the accent, to be honest! I imagine the biggest roar was for AR simply because he really was the odd one out of the 4. The other 3, Harry Enfield, Vic Reeves and Eddie Izzard, are slightly mad comedians, often liked by students and the like, although others like them too, including me it has to be said, so that may be a sweeping generalisation! AR, as an actor, is in a completely different field, and then when his first words came out in that accent - hysterical! Very clever indeed.
Not too sure when AR came to prominence in UK, as have not been studying his career for all that long! I'm sure others from UK could probably explain better, but I would say S&S set him on the road to being identified as well known,whenever that was 1995? Certainly before HP - that just increased his following I think! Encouraged more people with incredible good taste!
And now we have to wait (patiently!?) till Nov 15th for our next new viewings. Seems a long way away but am sure we can fill the time with intelligent discussion of our favourite topic! Thanks to all for PL reports - they were greatly enjoyed by us over the pond here. A job well done.
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 13:23:06 (PDT)

Just a question. Since PL is ending (and that's when I entered on this GB in the first place, around the time it was playing overseas), are we allowed to just have general chit chat here? If I remember correctly, it was suggested numerous times to keep general chit chat, not related to AR off these pages so as not to run up Suzanne's bandwith fees, etc. I just thought (if that's still the case) a reminder may be needed for anyone newish. If it means that the GB becomes less active than it's been for the run of PL both in London and NY, then perhaps we can all meet up via Instant Messaging or other boards and not run up Suzanne's er, bandwith thingy here if the chit chat isn't related to AR...

Anyway, if that is NOT the case, I expect to be corrected by Suzanne or one of the D.O.C.'s and my feelings won't be hurt. LOL
Harlii
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 12:36:13 (PDT)

i adore alan rickman and wish that he didnt have to leave us..:(.....oh well...all good things must end..however, HP2 and love actually are sure to be great:)
penelope
tampa, fl - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 12:32:35 (PDT)

Apologies that I have upset some of you with my previous post. It certainly was not my intention. I would undoubtedly think the same if I were you, reading my cryptic ramblings. I am not a nutter - I think I have posted (fairly) sensible things here before. I am not trying to tease you. I will not post what I was told because I am not 100% convinced of its accuracy and I may get sued for libel. I am certain that my collegue who told me was not lying, but it may be a case of mistaken identity. Ascertaining accuracy is what I am after for my own curiosity, and I could think of no better arena. If anyone *does* know what I am talking about, please email me - just knock the 'foo' bit off the end. I am not after attention, just corroboration. I won't refer to this post again and if I have annoyed you I am sorry and I suggest that you don't refer to it either.
Liz <spiral_24@hotmail.comfoo>
Newcastle, UK - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 12:22:38 (PDT)

Thank you Sue, that helped. I found the Yorkshire Men hard to understand in the beginning and didn't get the jokes because of that. It got easier as the skit went on. That huge eruption from the audience was for Alan wasn't it, prompting one of the actors to say, "Did Jesus just come in?", or something like that. I didn't realize he was so popular in the UK among the masses. I thought it was mostly the theatre-going crowd that held him in high-esteem. Was it Harry Potter that put him on the map in the UK? I wouldn't say he's quite on the map in the U.S. About 50% of the people I mention him to know who he is. Does anyone know how to download more quickly than the 15 minutes or so that it took me?
Stacie
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 12:20:13 (PDT)

Verena, THANK YOU! My sentiments, exactly!
Lori
USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 10:48:21 (PDT)

Re: Low pleasure threshold. I watched that TV movie about Princess Diana's biographer, Andrew Morton the other night. I got the biggest kick out of seeing Beatie Edney reduced to playing an overweight, bland British housewife!!! I think it must be her name... It's so prissy! I've never been jealous of any of AR's other costars, but whenever I read about her in LLD or Tango at the End of Winter or Mesmer, I get all angry! I need professional help, I know, I know...

Adrienne Clarkson was at PL? I never thought I'd say this, but Yay Government of Canada!
Julia <j_petrov@hotmail.comfoo>
Calgary, Canada - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 10:40:40 (PDT)

Excellent attempt at exlaining the accents, Sue. I have often wondered about his accent in Blow Dry. Thanks.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 10:31:28 (PDT)

Stacie, the accent in The 4 Yorkshiremen is supposedly Yorkshire, strangely enough (!) - a northern accent here in UK, and a great one to mimic. Being a Yorkshire lass myself originally, I found it hilarious; it wasn't a bad attempt at all from all 4 of them - great skit; mind you, I love Monty Python and it was a credible take-off of the original sketch; thanks for the opportunity to see this as I've often read about it but never seen it.
Yorkshire people are seen supposedly as always hard-up, poor, working down the pit (or t pit as Vic Reeves was it? was fond of trying), living in tiny cramped terraced house with no luxuries. Often protrayed as such in comic sketches.
AR's accent in Blow Dry is sort of supposed to be the same area, if you've seen BD.

OK - not a brilliant attempt at explaining the accents, so I'd better leave it there.
Sue
Lincoln, UK - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 10:25:28 (PDT)

Verena--I know its hard to ignore such nonsense. But your just dealing right into their hands when you show frustration.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 10:10:08 (PDT)

Sorry,but why the h*** do some of you write things like :" I know this and that about Alan , but I won�t write here in the Internet,because it�s a private thing.E-mail me,if you want to know..."

Or something like this. I mean, you either write these things or these information for everybody or for nobody.... You make all the others terribly curious and I think it�s not fair.There is no need for you to tell us that you have a ...well,an information if you never want to write it *here!!!*
verena ; hope it�s clear what I mean
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 09:52:21 (PDT)

Alright now.....is somebody over their heads with PL debt????? (tee hee)
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 09:48:50 (PDT)

What year is it? The Yorkshire Men downloaded, and I'm attempting to catch up with what happened while I was waiting. To AR fans in the UK, what accents were the actors using in this? Didn't seem like their usual voices, I know that wasn't AR's. What a welcome he got! Nice to see him appreciated the way he should be. For those of you who like TMD, I recommend The Tao of Steve. It's another sweet, funny romantic comedy. I know Alan isn't in it, but even he would advise seeing a movie now and then that he isn't in. It's healthy.
Stacie
- Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 09:43:41 (PDT)

Hi Liz I have problems with your e-mail adress.Have you another e-mail adress?
Anja <markmannthies@onlinehome.defoo>
Germany - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 08:50:11 (PDT)

Oh yes, I can give you an amusing search result at eBay. It was the first time I ever did a search on "Rickman" and I couldn't believe my eyes when I got results like: "Rickman parts." What kind of parts, I thought. And then a little lower in the results it got more specific: "Rickman rear end." Well, I just HAD to look. Turned out to be motorcycle parts, of course! LOL So "Rickman" is a brand of motorcycle. Who knew? :-)
Kim
MI USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 06:46:36 (PDT)

Make that SYNTAX, please.

How about spell-checkers--anybody had some fun with a spell-checker?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 06:27:03 (PDT)

Ah, the play is over in New York, the holiday weekend is over in the US, and we face a long drought of information until the reports start filtering in from the Love Actually set. So I propose we amuse ourselves with a little silliness in the meantime.

Here's an example. There are certain AR related Internet searches which always bring a smile to my face. I love going onto Ebay and answering the question, "What are you looking for," with the name "Alan Rickman". Not that my main intent is to shop--I just get a giggle out of telling the search box I am looking for Alan Rickman. (I think I mentioned earlier somewhere about my low pleasure threshold.)

But my absolute faaaaaavorite search is to go onto Google, type in the name "Alan Rickman", and hit the "I'm feeling lucky" button. Lucky indeed!

Anybody else found any amusing search sytax out there?
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 06:25:20 (PDT)

To: Andrea I. Carkhuff From: Maxine Thank you for the info. on "SNAPPY"; however, this computer expert and photo developer (who I do business with) says he saw poor results from this: computer hooked to VHS/DVD player via "SNAPPY" still produces grainy images (photos). Did you get a chance to see A.R. in P.L. in New York? I didn't and wish he came to Toronto. How many fans on this site are from Toronto I wonder.... I'm dropping my last name "Share" which is fake, and will go by my true first name - Maxine.
Maxine Share
Toronto, Canada - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 05:38:15 (PDT)

Oops! "that" should have been "than" (darn fingers! tee hee)
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 02:19:45 (PDT)

Tami-Diane did not say she felt sorry for you (although your 9-2-2002 9:44 PDT post seemed to solicit such) or others. She said she "felt for you". There is a huge difference. Also--she never mentioned there was "enough bad things in life to worry about". Maybe you should re-read her post and the post above it.

I lean more to the thought that the "something wonderful" that The Man has given you is more "personal" for you that for he.

Cynthia--MEM is Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio--sorry for the confuse.
Claudia
GA US - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 02:12:12 (PDT)

Goodness me, "ordinary!" Strong views in FAVOUR of the movie companies? Where have you been? Anyway...
(1) Zoned DVD were a great marketing idea back in the early 1990s when there was no Internet (or it was still sitting on servers in Switzreland at the time). However, the Internet has completely changed the way we can buy stuff and even access information about upcoming movies. Even Hollywood has seen this over the last few years! Living "Down Under" we are increasingly seeing movies released on the same day as the US or within 3-4 weeks on average. Why? Because the Internet has made it impossible to market movies in their own sweet time in each country.

So the zoned DVDs which were created in part of the movie companies 'respect' to protect the local seller in individual countries failed because most movies we see are invariably released in the US first and since we can now purchase DVDs over the Internet, if they dont' release the movie at almost the same time in all countries, we'll buy the DVD, thus hurting local movie profits and the local video distribution industry. Hence the narrower and narrower times between the US and international movie release - the Internet makes is impossible to stagger good movies apart.

(2) Haven't you heard of multi-zone DVD players????? Pretty righteous to go out and buy TWO DVD players - I just bought a multizone DVD player. I guess though, you are opposed to us "Flashing" our DVD players if they are 'locked' into 1 zone to make them into multizone DVD players. Well, movie companies shouldn't care on that front! If I make my monozone DVD player multizone, then they make more money because then I can buy things like Mesmer on US DVD which isn't available on Australian DVD and never will be because the movie was never released here. There is NOTHING you cay say which is going to convince me I should be lining the pockets of multinational companies by buying TWO or more DVD players when one will suffice! FYI - Internationally, 80% of DVD players are "Flashed" and made into multizone DVD players - shows you how STUPID a marketing idea this is...

(3) It takes some pretty high tech computing power to decrypt a DVD and make a video out of it. Certainly, for the most part, they cannot be pumped through a video machine and video's made. And lets be realistic here - if people are doing it on this GB, the numbers would barely reach the teens in the amount of video's made - it just costs too much and takes too much time! And they aren't making a profit. Now, if those same people were making pirate video's and selling them for profit on eBay, then you would have a nice little piracy number going. IF people here make video's from DVDs of other zones here, then I think in these instances, its a message to the movie companies - people overseas are now aware of the product and they want it in their own country. Of course, an absolutely massive, marvelous way to creally crack down on all this piracy is simply to make all DVDs multizone right away. Then there would be no need for the piracy you are concerned about that may or may not happen in this GB.

(4)And lastly, as far as the websites go - sure we all know we are violating copyright and I am one of the biggest propopents on this book for acknowledging sources etc (except the idiotic minority apparently want no credit in their twisted minds). However, even Warner Bros had to conceed that it couldn't shut down all the Harry Potter websites (particularly when they have an abortion of a homepage which takes ages to appear) and its all blatent, free publicity to allow these websites to thrive. Any sane marketer knows that!

So, stop fretting and being so righteous and think about the bigger picture here!
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 23:48:59 (PDT)

Thanks for the comments about the fact that it can sometimes be a little sad or frustrating liking (loving) Alan so much and yet knowing that he will never really be part of our lives. I am sorry that some made comments that were more than a little unkind in response. I was hoping that all different opinions were welcome on this board. I think there are probably others who feel the same but do not feel comfortable saying it on these boards. Lily-NJ
Lily
NJ - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 22:53:26 (PDT)

Diane, I do not want or need you to feel sorry for me. While there is a certain agony to loving Alan, there is also an ecstasy! If it was so horrible, I wouldn't bother. As you said, there's enough bad things in life to worry about. Alan has given me something wonderful, but that's personal between him and me. The downside is that other men pale in comparison. I assume the privacy comment was directed toward me... When I said "private," I meant that I choose not to date. It has nothing to do with my website, which is not at all private, of course.
Tami
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 22:32:40 (PDT)

What free DVD downloads? The Monty Python skit? I haven't seen anything else to download. Between MEM, Kitty Rickman and free downloads, I don't know what anybody is talking about tonight. Anon, what you said is so true. That's why it would be depressing for me to be at the stage door. I'd have to go drown my sorrows in one of those seedy New York bars. Not worth it. I'm not the type to be thrilled by a "your welcome". I'd be depressed that he didn't say, "you must meet me for scones in the morning..." ,unwilling to break eye contact with me as the fans start to grumble. "Alan, please, they're waiting..." I just know it would be a mistake to go to the stage door. I can't disrupt Alan's life like that.
Cynthia
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 20:49:14 (PDT)

Everyone here seems so protective toward Mr. Rickman's privacy and rights, but I cannot believe what you are doing. IT IS ILLEGAL TO COPY THE CONTENTS OF DVDs AND EXPOSE THEM FOR EVERYONE TO DOWNLOAD FOR FREE!! You must realize this messsage board is being seen from all over the world. What if everyone downloads the file for free? I know you are simply enjoying seeing Mr. Rickman and you are "very kindly helping" those who live in Region One, but you must know you are violating the laws. Those who live in Region One and would like to see the R2 DVDs must buy a R2 DVD player or just give up. I live in R2 and I own an R1 DVD player to see the US imports. If Mr. Rickman knew about this, he would certainly feel angry or at least feel sad. I think I will tell about this site to the DVD company.
ordinary
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 20:24:23 (PDT)

This one too
Jasmine
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 19:59:24 (PDT)

I have to show this to you guys
Jasmine
lol, - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 19:56:31 (PDT)

Oh yes, I too am part of the many who struggled through several obstacles in getting to NYC to see PL, which included a rather uncomfortable journey. Thus, I too wished to get the most out of my vacation. But once you've had the PL and stage door experience, all the hell just seems worth it. The play was wonderful, and certainly will not be forgotten, but it was the events at the stage door that I will treasure most of all. There were many things that occured at the door that I may never forget, but one in particular happened on the Friday evening when I was there for the 2nd consecutive time. It may seem small, but was worth much to me. So...cutting to the chase, I finally asked Alan for a picture, after fumbling words of admiration, to which he said "of course". He asked who was holding the camera, I said my father, and I pointed him out, (yes, my dad, long story). So, we stood together and my dad took the picture. But alas!, no flash, and it was about 11 to 11:30 pm. I thought that it was over, he'd move on (due to the large crowd), and I would be forced to make due with what I had. But no, HE was the one to say, "i don't believe the flash went off". I looked up and around, hearing women shouting "oh well" and "too bad" (how very cruel). Yet, instead of walking off, as I truly thought he'd do, he stood there, and waited til my dad got the camera working to take another picture. I apologized, and he replied that it was fine. Once all was said and done, I thanked him 'so much', and with that smile he looked at me and said 'your welcome'. That whole experience, my friends, gave me the sudden impulse to squish him in my arms forever. Of course, the tradeoff for the picture was not getting a full, blown out hug from him, due to the crowd. I apologize if this kind of post is getting redundant, but I thought I would just share with you guys the occurance that took my admiration and respect (amoung other things) for Alan to a new level. As for the experience with Lindsay, well, it made me tear up! =) I wonder, would this "kitty" rickman have come through the stage door at all on the friday night?.....there were many in and out that day, all of whom i did not know. I do know that Thursday night the Governor General of Canada was there, along with her husband, but that's about it. and thanks to Suzanne for putting up that link to the comedy skit. Your friendly, and now, extremely happy canuck, Tiffany
Tiffany <thach8@yahoo.comfoo>
Canada - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 19:44:21 (PDT)

Yes, I've been having some problems with my USA e-mail, but I thought it was mostly limited to trouble logging in. *hummm* Anyway, yes, you (and anyone else) can also e-mail me at: webmistress@alanrickman.org

Suzanne <Suz@mail.usa.com or webmistress@alanrickman.orgfoo>
TX USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 18:02:41 (PDT)

OT: Suzanne - I just had an e-mail I sent to you a week ago, returned to me as undeliverable. Do you have another e-mail address I can forward it to?
Claudia <claudia@paradise.net.nzfoo>
NZ - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 17:43:57 (PDT)

Thanks to all of you who were able to make the last performance and shared the experienc with us.

Georgiana, "consumed us and left us burning." Well said.
Cindie
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 17:35:24 (PDT)

@ Cynthia relating to her comment about NYC and the stage door thing: like you, I, too, am a New Yorker (and proud of it!)...although I did stay at the stage door for PL and a few others, I don't generally go there (it's usually off to have dinner somewhere). But the people who have traveled from afar to see shows often go to the stage door, because one always wants to milk any visit for all it's worth (at least that's what it seems like, from overhearing others talk while waiting...)...
"Lurker 425"
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 17:30:38 (PDT)

Hello everyone!

Jasmine, Private Lives ended on Sept. 1, last Sunday. It was schuduled to end on the 8th but was changed.

Liz, now you have me burning with curiosity. But if it is private, let it be. Ah, but I'm so curious! Sorry, I shouldn't be.

Can someone please say who Kitty Rickman is? I'm a bit confused...I think I missed something. Well, that's not unusual for me.

For anyone with HBO in the states, Michael Collins is on tonight (or should I say tomorrow morning, Sept. 3 at 3:45 A.M. on HBO if anyone hasen't seen it yet.
Steph...Eaten Ship
CT - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 17:08:57 (PDT)

Who is Kitty Rickman? Did I miss something?
Sabine
GA USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 16:20:13 (PDT)

I have been gone for sooo long. I have been so busy. I am trying my hardest to visit this page everyday, or else the post pile up.
"*tear* *tear* PL is no more".--This has probably been explained in a previous post, but I only have time to scan over them."Private Lives is no more". Has it been cancelled or soething. To my understanding, it finishes Sep. 8th, doesn't it?? From now on I am going to keep up and not just scan the post. My family will just have to understand that it takes time to sit down and read all of this.
Jasmine <MadamJas57@aol.comfoo>
USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 16:07:32 (PDT)

The other evening a collegue of mine told me something very intriguing about Mr Rickman, which I will not post on the internet out of respect to the man's privacy. However, I am burning with curiosity and was wondering if someone might be able to privately confirm what I was told. If 'Escomb' means anything to you, drop me an email ...
Liz <spiral_24@hotmail.comfoo>
Newcastle, UK - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 14:43:03 (PDT)

I'd hate to be on the receiving end of Mr. Rickman's anger - that would scare the hell out of me too! But "certain things" might not only pertain to loud audience members, for I heard he was also unnerved by a fan(s) stalking incident back in June. Not stalking him directly, but a relative of his. And THAT, I hear, he will not abide. Kitty? What a cute nick name!
Anon
NY - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 13:56:54 (PDT)

Hi, I'm Brenda and I love Alan Rickman! A friend of mine went to see Private Lives last weekend. She didn't see Rima friday or saturday either but she saw *Kitty* Rickman around and other guests all three days. I too heard a stage door rumor about Mr. Rickman's argument with the staff in June. That *Alan threatened to quit if they allowed certain things to happen again* Thank God he didn't. It seems angry Alan scared the hell out of them!
Brenda
USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 12:53:52 (PDT)

Georgiana- question for you. When Alan said he would stop the performance if the audience caused disruption, did he mean until they were quiet and then he would continue, or did he mean that he would stop and that would be the end of the evening for everyone? I am curious.
Juliana
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 12:33:55 (PDT)

I have always and will continue to think of this AR affliction as just a lot of good fun. This why it astounds me to read that some think of it as "agonizing" or having a "down side". There is plenty in the world of reality to agonize over without contending with it in a fantasy world.

Hint to those that want privacy--plastering pics and stories on Internet websites is NOT the way to have privacy.
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 12:22:53 (PDT)

Oh, Tami, MOD (and any others), I feel for you. But I must be one of the single women who doesn't see a "down side" to being an AR fan. I'm coming out of the closet and de-lurking to say, yes, I'm single, almost 40, and LOVE being in love with Alan Rickman (over 8 years now)! Even though it's unreciprocated. It doesn't matter to me. Life now seems to have some kind of meaning and I've never been happier! That might sound strange to some people, but I suppose that's what love does to me. Perhaps I will find Mr. Right one day. Or to be more precise, he will find me (because I'm tired of looking!). But if that never happens, so be it. All I can say is, if I have this Rickmanitis or Rickmania disease, I hope I'm never cured! *g* And thanks to everyone for their stage door and Private Lives reviews. I enjoy reading them.
Diane
lower FL US - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 11:56:44 (PDT)

Thank you, Suzanne! I thoroughly enjoyed seeing that clip again!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 11:44:02 (PDT)

TAMI, Thanks for your honest and touching comments. Since I think you are the same woman who does the VOICE website -you are doing a wonderful job. I also admire the woman who put all the work into Rickmanista and Addict's websites and this website too of course and many others. I did not bring up the topic of the "down side" of being an Alan Rickman fan before because I did not want to take away from all the joy that is often displayed on these boards and I think the friendships that have been formed are terrific. But I am finding it hard with all the beautiful sexy photos of Alan and so many women pointing out every single one of his numerous charms (including being faithful to the same woman for so long). I am glad that we brought it up just this once because I think there are other woman out there who maybe feel the same way and don't say it on these boards for fear someone else will reply with "get a life". As soon as I know for sure he is back in London I am going to take a "break" from these boards and start concentrating on something (or someone) else! Thanks MOD
MOD
Queens, NY - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 10:52:19 (PDT)

Thank you, Georgiana, for such an amazing report! And thanks to Ellen, too! I'm looking forward to hearing everyone else's as well. Sounds like PL had a glorious end, I'm so glad. But at the same time, saddened to see it end (such conflicting emotions!).

Brit, to add to Ali-Pat's post (thanks, BTW!), here's a link to the Videogram of the Monty Python sketch from the We Know Where You Live DVD (just download and double click; for PC users):

The Four Yorkshire Men (AI-MP-6-3-01.exe: 10.5MB, 6 mins, 35 secs)

Suzanne <Suz@mail.usa.comfoo>
TX USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 10:38:39 (PDT)

My God,it�s really over!
verena
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 10:23:14 (PDT)

My point, my dear concerned citizen, is that anyone's (ahem!) "sleeping arrangements" are no one's business but the participating parties--and it's both rude and inappropriate for non-participants to speculate. Mr. Rickman's work is public property; his private life is not.
WPP
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 10:11:37 (PDT)

We Know Where You Live was a British TV production to raise awareness and contributions for Amnesty International. From what I understand, not having seen the whole thing, it is a collection of comedy sketches from a lot of top comics. You can look at the cast list in the IMDB entry. Some kind soul has also put a clip of the AR/Four Yorkshiremen routine on their website, but I forget where it is--can anybody supply a link? The DVD is available from Amazon UK, in Region 2 only. I think Eddie Izzard gives AR the best entrance of his life in this sketch (grins broadly).
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 10:07:42 (PDT)

Claudia, Nope, I did miss seeing Rima if she was sitting next to MEM. There was a really tall man sitting directly behind me, and Rima must have been sitting directly behind him. I saw the gentleman sitting on the other side of MEM though. I doubt whether Rima could have seen much of the play behind that tall gentleman though. (But she's probably seen it enough times though). I needed to make a booster seat out of my jacket and pocketbook since I was sitting behind a tall man myself.

With respect to the discussion of stage door visits, my personal view is that since I was one of the lucky ones to have met AR at the book signing event for the Winter Guest a few years ago at Borders in NYC where each fan was personally introduced to Alan and I was lucky enough to have had a few moments to make some (hopefully)not too stupid comments and compliments (and even shook his hand), I doubted whether standing at the stage door for an hour among his other fans could compare. I am delighted to hear than those of you who did get the chance to meet and talk to him had wonderful experiences.
Ellen
New York, NY, - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 09:48:28 (PDT)

MOD, I'm so glad you brought up the agony of single women who adore Alan. I have not seen it discussed before. My situation is doubly difficult because my husband died and it's quite hard enough to get over and move on without my Alan attraction complicating things. Of course, TMD doesn't help my recovery. I prefer to live in private with my children, the memory of my dead husband, and my AR obsession. While my friends and family all shake their heads sadly and say, "what a shame!" Although I certainly wish I was one of those "awful widows" bouncing around with Elyot, I know it's just a safe fantasy. Yet nobody else compares to THE MAN. So what's a girl to do? Add a new AR-induced affliction to the list, perhaps "TMD Syndrome"?
Tami
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 09:44:53 (PDT)

Yes, thank you Ali-Pat, that answers both my questions about your name and on Harry's abuse status. I guess I just found it hard to believe that Harry dealt so well with such psychological abuse. I guess it just goes to show how good the boy's survival instincts truly are!

But what is this We Know Where You Live DVD of which you speak?! I love Monty Python, or at least I love the small amount that I have been able to see. I wonder if I can rent it from any of the local Movie stores.

Thanks once again

Brit
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Misery - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 09:23:24 (PDT)

It was a glorious end!

I saw the last four performances and--as you have seen--many frequenters of these pages (and other sites and lists) were present for the last. All four performances were stellar.

Alex was replaced by Carolyn McCormick (of "Law & Order" fame) for Friday night and Saturday matinee. I was amazed how this deadened the intro into the third act. The French invective was more clearly enunciated, but one felt in the presence of a crotchity retired maiden French school teacher, rather than the light and lively school girl innocence that Alex brings to the role. Ms. Belcourt exited the Stage Door with her husband after the Saturday matinee, and I remarked to Mr. Rickman that I had missed her in the last few performances. He assured me she would be back that evening and, yes, it did make a difference. It seemed the regulars had to work that much harder to accelerate the daffy pace of that last act. An audience member suggested it may have something to do with Equity regulations . . .

I saw Rima in row F for the last performance; I did not see her Friday or Saturday, although I was at the Stage Door only after the Saturday matinee.

Another rumor at the Stage Door was that the cast was returning to the bowling alley for an end-of-run party following the last performance. One of the ushers told me they were not invited--relations having been strained between the cast and the ushers ever since that episode in June when the hard-of-hearing gentleman, being seated late, suggested--twice!--that the entire row should move down a couple of seats. The second utterance had half the audience sussurating "Shush" in response. According to the usher, Mr. Rickman indicated that he would stop the performance if any such event occurred again--and Suzanne and I noted a dramatic decline in late seatings for the rest of our week there. All four shows this weekend saw looks and gestures and small additions of nuance, form and near-slapstick as the cast, and especially Mr. Rickman, appeared to be having quite a good time with the part. None of that lumbering exit from the Albery we saw in March. With chiming the gong in Act 2 Mr. Rickman managed to topple it in all four performances. Saturday night, it hung poised half-over. This is poetry--I do not believe I have ever seen an actor move with such deliberate yet seamless grace. The last performance, for once!, saw no motioning toward the throat for the "little bag of venom behind their fangs." He played a bit with the expression braced on the back of the couch at the end of the "What's it all mean? That's what I ask myself" melodrama, eventually going back to the sustained smirk he had added in New York, but more seriousness to follow. That next speech remained at the back of the couch, rather than the prolonged slow walk forward he used previously. It is still for me the crown jewel of the piece, that lovely sequence in the middle of the second act, which they have called Chekhovian, and it was the best ever. No straining for the heights, but heartfelt agonizing over their painful predicament. I did not hear echoes from "The Preacher," as occurred once or twice in London--which, alas, the voice would not allow--but the whole sequence was superb.

Alas, the voice. It is not a cold. He has strained that precious asset. It is near normal in the usual speech range. But forcing volume and emotion result in a ragged quality that concerned me. And singing the higher notes--which was generally completely avoided--cracks the tone, which occurred once in these four outings. He has therefore reformatted the singing and consistently talks lines in the higher register, or drops to lovely harmony. Still dramatic, and, my, but he has a good ear, but, having heard it so often before, I missed the melodies. When I asked, Mr. Rickman indicated "one does what one has to," and seemed not concerned about the strain.

The last performance, as you have read, saw so much applause for Mr. Rickman's entrance that it was a wonder he would ever get out the first line. Ms. Duncan was also welcomed longer than usual. There were gestures, pauses, holds and looks galore, all new, all noted. Even Ms. Duncan added one or two. It was the only performance in which I saw the cast return for a third curtain call, and they all applauded the audience when they did so. It was clear from the audiences' response to the play that there were some newcomers--laughing heartily at the usual Coward hookers--but many, many repeat attendees, grasping collectively at the nuances and shadings new to this last one.

Clearly a celebration of a 'glorious oblivion' ending a run which has consumed us, but left us burning.

Georgiana (Thanks, Barbara-t-W!) <gellis@drizzle.comfoo>
Seattle - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 09:04:21 (PDT)

I was at the closing performance of PL and it was WONDERFUL! I had gone once before in May) and I also noticed that the applause for Alan when he first came out was much longer than in May. He looked very pleased about it too! Many times during the play the audience laughed louder and applauded much more than in May. I was wondering if it was because there were a lot of die hard fans (excuse the pun) in the audience last night. At the end the man with the gray hair who is always at the stage door came up in front of the stage and held up a sign towards Alan. I could not see the front of the sign but when Alan looked down and read the sign he smiled broadly. I was very glad they had the extra curtain call and it was so touching when Alan paused just before closing the door and blew the audience a big kiss! I had the feeling that the kiss was not only meant for this audience but for all the fans who came to see him while he was on Broadway. Sorry I did not wait at the stage door because I had no idea if it would take forever for them to come out last night because they would all be in there saying their goodbyes for the last time. The only thing that doesn't get discussed on this board that often is the "down side" of being an Alan Rickman fan. I guess it is fine if you are a happily married AR fan, but for some of us single AR fans it is hard because the guys we meet in real life rarly can compare with him! Any advice? MOD
MOD
Queens, ny - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 08:55:45 (PDT)

Mother Theresa? Who on earth was comparing him to her??? (LOL) If you want my opinion about his PR people, I think he pays them to keep him OUT of the newspapers, because I can never find any articles or interviews with him! Okay, what happened to all the people who saw PL yesterday? Post something, please! We want reports!
Kelly
IL U.S.A. - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 08:26:45 (PDT)

Thanks, Jody!

We are all waiting for your PL reviews and/or stage door experiences, you lucky ladies and gents who were there yesterday!
Christine
USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 08:09:15 (PDT)

Hi Kimberly - There were a few things your dictionary didn't mention under actor. "Once name recognition is acheived, must receive salary equal to eight times the worth of a normal human or more." If it left that out, perhaps there are other elements of the job that are tacit, as well. Highly-paid celebrities make their living being famous. That may irk an actor who wants to be acknowledged only for his stage skills but do you think Alan perhaps gets paid a bit more because just his name will draw a certain audience? I do. (That's when "actor" becomes "celebrity.") Do you think if he's polite to that paying audience, it is job related as opposed to a great humanitarian effort? I do. Do you think he has agents and PR folks who are paid to make sure he winds up in the papers and trades, even if it's for extra-curricular activities? I do. (And yes, it's been established that not every actor sees himself as obligated to be polite to the people who support him. Good for Alan that he has common sense and courtesy, and that, so far, it's not dangerous for him to apply it. It just doesn't make him Mother Teresa, OK?)
Cyndi
- Monday, September 02, 2002 at 08:06:42 (PDT)

Wow!I was not aware AR had such a following!My daughter asked me to watch Harry Potter(I am not a wizard fan) but I thoroughly enjoyed it.Alan's striking presence caught my attention so I rented a few of his movies.I guess I had seen him before, and always had liked his style, but never caught his name. He is so versatile, warm, funny and plays the villain like no other.Truly, Madly deeply brought out his charm and humour for sure.I do not go on these sites and do not follow up on actors etc,. because they are everyday people doing a job just like us..but Alan..my daughter is still chuckling over this strange hold you have on me(LOL!)and the local video store is chuckling for sure!! Great site!(Can you believe how well he wears his age??)
Lorie <bluenoser8@hotmail.comfoo>
NS Canada - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 07:40:22 (PDT)

I agree, Magda. The Dursleys were more ridiculous than frightening, and I think the fact that Harry recognizes this fact is the key to his survival. Otherwise, the story would have turned out more like Empire Falls and would not have been suitable for children at all!
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 07:26:16 (PDT)

It's hard to make child abuse funny (leaving aside for the moment whether it's appropriate or not) but I think it's clear from the books and the movie that Harry is not beaten down by his experiences and actually is a pretty rebellious kid. The Dursleys just aren't effective enough to be real abusers.

I must admit I was interested to see how it would come across on film because in the book you're in Harry's POV and you can read his rebellious thoughts. But I think that the actors did a fine job of making the terrible D's more funny than terrifying. Fiona Reid and Richard Fielding I think? And the kid who played Dudley was excellent. Personally, I think the first 40 minutes of the movie were the best part.
Magda
Canada - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 07:12:32 (PDT)

Brit--I am not at all offended by anything in your post, so no worries on that score. However, I do apologize if my remarks about the film portrayal of Harry Potter seemed cryptic or callous.

I do not mean to trivialize the very real evil of child abuse in the world. I have very strong feelings about what should to be done to people who abuse children. And in the real world, the way Harry was treated by his adoptive family would indeed be considered child abuse. However, as a filmgoer, I guess I am just jaded enough that when I see what looks like a caricature of such abuse in a film I immediately think of the old Monty Python sketch,(reprised most recently by AR et alia on the We Know Where You Live DVD), where they try to outdo each other with tales of childhood hardship. Harry's cupboard under the stairs made me think of the one Python's claim of growing up in a shoebox in the middle of the street. That is what I meant by gross exaggertation, but maybe a more apt term would have been comic exaggeration.

Also, if Harry's cupboard had been depicted as dirty, smelly, and rat/lice/cockroach infested, of course I would have been outraged. But it wasn't, and I think that is because J. K. Rowling and Chris Columbus were trying to depict just enough hardship, without frightening young readers or viewers, so that they could fully appreciate the contrast with the wonders of Harry's new life at Hogwarts. Thus it came across as a caricature to me, and thus my amused reaction.

Does this help? I really am not a callous, unfeeling wench. Really!

As for my name, glad you like it. It is composed of the first parts of my two middle names and rhymes with "alley cat". If fate had been different, or my parents more prescient, I would have the exact same initials as my favorite actor.
Ali-Pat <sa.pe@earthlink.netfoo>
Dayton, OH USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 07:06:02 (PDT)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/arts/2159817.stm Sorry, don't know how to link nor if this has appeared before. A 1976 Rickman at the Edinburgh Festival. Cheers.
Susan <sdcoburn2@juno.comfoo>
Buffalo, NY USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 06:57:06 (PDT)

*tear* *tear* PL is no more. I am still kicking my self (and others around me)for not getting to see it. As for the thing at the stage door I would not care about how dumb i felt. I would be worth it to me to meet The Man, But to each his own. I saw AABA last night on we and yes some seens where axed out of it ,but it did have really good sound. :)
Bev <Beverlydiane515@yahoo.comfoo>
GA USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 06:53:23 (PDT)

anon..although I agree that your analysis of a "no stage door" kind of person may apply to some, I can tell you it doesn't apply to all. I'm not a stage door kind of person..nor do I care to have an autograph from anyone. I would be happy to meet The Man in any other scenario other than the stage door. I won't go into my reasons as to why I don't do stage doors becaue they are my personal private thoughts. But I can assure you that my aversion of the stage door does not stem from fear of rejection nor a desire to be treated "specially" by the object of the stage door meeting.
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 04:02:00 (PDT)

Ohh Ellen , you didn't catch Rima Horton next to MEM?
Claudia
GA US - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 03:40:04 (PDT)

Recent discussions about whether Alan Rickman is required to meet and greet fans after performances piqued my curiosity as I work in the employment & training field. Just for the heck of it, I looked up the required tasks for an actor, as described in the Dictionary of Occupational Titles, published by the US Gov't. Here are the tasks for an Actor: (I apologize for the length)

Details of Tasks For Actors

Tasks are specific work activities that can be unique for each occupation. All Tasks identified for this occupation are shown, in no particular order. If your search identifies Tasks that may be difficult to perform because of a health problem or disability, please consider job accommodations.

Tasks 1) Portrays and interprets role, using speech, gestures, and body movements, to entertain radio, film, television, or live audience. 2) Performs original and stock tricks of illusion to entertain and mystify audience, occasionally including audience members as participants. 3) Tells jokes, performs comic dances and songs, impersonates mannerisms and voice of others, contorts face and uses other devices to amuse audience. 4) Performs humorous and serious interpretations of emotions, actions, and situations, using only body movements, facial expressions, and gestures. 5) Reads and rehearses role from script to learn lines, stunts, and cues as directed. 6) Reads from script or book to narrate action, inform, or entertain audience, utilizing few or no stage props. 7) Dresses in comical clown costume and makeup and performs comedy routines to entertain audience. 8) Prepares for and performs action stunts for motion picture, television, or stage production. 9) Sings or dances during dramatic or comedy performance. 10) Manipulates string, wire, rod, or fingers to animate puppet or dummy in synchronization to talking, singing, or recorded program. 11) Signals start and introduces performers to stimulate excitement and to coordinate smooth transition of acts during circus performance. 12) Writes original or adapted material for drama, comedy, puppet show, narration, or other performance. 13) Constructs puppets and ventriloquist dummies, and sews accessory clothing, using hand tools and machines.

I don't see anything that says "Meets Fans at the stage door after performances, provides autographs, and poses for photos, as requested." Just thought I'd throw this into the debate.

Kimberly
MI - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 03:12:44 (PDT)

One feels curiously vulnerable standing at a stage door-courting rejection. We all want to think that we matter to someone who matters to us, and it can be painful to realize that we are not anything more than "one of the crowd". Even if we have been more than once, it is not a social situation and acknowledgement is sometimes avoided, to prevent obsessives from feeding their fantasies. So by all means, go to have the one off autograph signing, or picture, but if you want to be treated like the unique, special valuable person that you are, family and friends will give you that. You won't find it outside a theatre-not even with Alan Rickman.
anon
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 23:58:14 (PDT)

To Christine---re: TMD music.

I'm a huge fan of Bach, and have multiple copies of the same pieces, but my fav has to be "Essential Bach" by Decca. Not only does it contain the main theme (Cello Sonata no.3-Adagio), but also the Violin Concerto no.1-Andante. I believe that one is played as the credits roll at the end. Hmm, I think a re-viewing of TMD is in order for meself.

If your interest is strictly on the Cello Sonata, try Sony Classic's copy of Pablo Casals' "The Three Gamba (Cello) Sonatas". You can't go wrong w/ Casals when it comes to cello. And bec' this one is specific to the cello sonatas, you get the complete sonata, w/ all 3 mvmts, and the Adagio is complete, instead of it being an excerpt as it usually is. The catalogue # for the no.3 in G-minor is BWV 1029, FYI, if you'd prefer a copy by a diff artist. Hope this helps. BTW, the Movie Adagio CD is quite good as well, majority of them probably familiar to the ears. It's just a shame that TMD didn't have a soundtrack CD produced. I'd really like to have a CD copy of AR singing. I just have to content myself w/ playing the movie over and over...
jody
CA USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 23:28:10 (PDT)

I saw many plays...
Cynthia
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 22:47:32 (PDT)

Is it opportunity? Or oppurtunity? Dictionary please! I think the first. So sorry.
Cynthia
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 22:46:05 (PDT)

I lived in a suburb of NYC for 30 years, about a 1/2 hr. from Manhattan. I say many plays, with friends, boyfriends, school field trips...no one ever mentioned the stage door. I never thought about it. A friend and I had crushes on Al Pacino when we were teenagers and we saw him in a play. Did the adults in our lives say you can wait at the stage door and meet him as we left by train for our exciting trip? Noooooo.....We would have died. That would have been so exciting for us. Not once in my life as a New Yorker did I ever hear about anyone waiting at the stage door after a play. It wasn't until I started reading this Guestbook that I realized people did that. I'd like to ask other New Yorkers about this. Was this some aberration, or do native New Yorkers not do the stage door thing as a rule? I feel like I missed out on some fun oppurtunities. Though I have to admit, if I was waiting at the stage door for a celebrity, I would feel a bit like an idiot. Not that people who do it are idiots, I just know that I would feel awkward and uncomfortable. It would be thrilling and depressing to see Alan. I would suffer feeling like an idiot for the oppurtunity. Hi, Marialis!
Cynthia
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 22:44:51 (PDT)

OK drkstrike, so you're in high school. You have an excuse. Go and do your silly things.
Stacie
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 22:18:30 (PDT)

Hello all. I've just spent the last 2 days catching up on my GB reading! I have so much to say!

First of all, Ali-Pat, I'm curious about your post of August 31 about your co-worker's view of Harry's home life and your own take on it. I'm kind of curious as to what exactly it is that you find to be a 'gross exaggeration'. I don't mean this in any offensive manner I simply think that I may be misapprehending your feelings. I do completely apprehend the Dickens remark, however, and feel that I must agree with you to the extent of my understanding as I feel that it is perfectly natural for such depictions in novelistic literature especially in considering that Dickens was a prime figure in the Realism Movement which we still, for the most part, adhere to today. I, like you, do not find it shocking that scenes appear. However, I do not find them at all to be unrealistic or grossly exaggerated. I have met/known several abused children and find Miss Rowling's representations to be tragically accurate. One example: I know a man (a friend of the family) who as a child was locked in his closet for hours upon hours at a time by his mother for any of his childish misdeeds, in fact he was often left there any time that she wished to go out and did not want to go through the trouble of finding a sitter. Indeed, if his infraction was great enough she would, before locking him in, burn his fingers with a cigarette lighter. Unfortunately, this is not at all atypical of child abuse. I do classify the Dursley's treatment of Harry as child abuse. I don't think that it is treated very seriously throughout, that is excepting Book II. The boy was locked in a small cramped cupboard for all of his memory except when he was brought out to do chores. One would think that this would in some manner adversely affect the fragile psyche of a young child. He was treated as a lower form of life for his entire existence as far as he was concerned, given no pride or self-esteem, no doubt cut-down at every chance for no reason that he was aware of. This leads me to believe that Mr. Radcliffe's portrayal of a cocky and almost jovial Harry is probably not the most accurate one. A 'minor' plot fault rather than the actor's, I imagine.

Also, on a few lighter notes I'm thrilled to hear that the final performance was wonderful! I am heartbroken that I wasn't allowed to the play. I very nearly went against the wishes of my father and did so anyhow; it would have been perfectly legal though probably not wise and certainly not prudent. Alas, woe is me... Tee hee!

Also, Ali-Pat, I love your name but I am not sure if I am pronouncing it right in my head. Is the first 'A' pronounced like the 'a' in apple or like the 'a' in can't when Nina of TMD insists to Sandy that she "just can't"? Thank you very much.

Brit

P.S. Someone might want to suggest to AR that he may need to have his telephone number changed before returning to his home just in case.
Brit <britty77@joplin.comfoo>
Misery - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 22:11:32 (PDT)

Well, the WE Channel certainly cut the naughty bits out of AABA. If anyone is seeing this or taping it for the first time, you are not getting the whole picture.

Not kissing and telling... if only we could all be so civilized.
Christine
USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 21:18:14 (PDT)

Oh WPP, you have opened up a door that may not ever be closed again. Have you ever heard of people making up stories? Not to be encouraged, believe me. The one person {at least for that last thirty some years}who could honestly answer such a question would not bother, and any others that would bother are undoubtedly lying thru their teeth. Why don't we just all agree not to kiss {or anything else} and tell, like the good old fashioned days?
a concerned citizen
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 20:31:41 (PDT)

I have an idea to end the speculation about AR's sexual preference(s): if you're sleeping with him, feel free to post about it at length. If you're *not* sleeping with him, it's obviously none of your business--so please shut up/move on/get a life.
WPP
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 18:26:10 (PDT)

VCR alert -- "An Awfully Big Adventure" is on WE (Women's Entertainment) Channel tonight at 10:45 Eastern; 2 hours, 15 minutes long. For those who haven't seen it or don't own it, or who just want a dose of a different sort of PL tonight. Hmmm, might need to rephrase that... I can see women lining up for "a dose" of PL O'Hara...
Christine
USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 18:07:32 (PDT)

Thanks Kimberley for the playbill.com link. I'm glad to see that Private Lives made back its investment. I know that the show was a critical success with the critics and a personal success for the cast but I always wondered if the play ended up a commercial success for its backers. Now that PL is over and Alan will be going back to England, I want to thank him for his wonderful generosity towards his fans. I wish I could have been part of that standing ovation at the end. Job Well Done Alan!!!!!!!
Kathy
Lewiston, Me - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 17:58:21 (PDT)

Playbill.com has a two-page article on the closing of "Private Lives." Click on this link:

PrivateLivesClosing
Kimberly
MI - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 17:45:55 (PDT)

I wanted to give a final performance report for Private Lives. It was wonderful! The audience was really with it today! The welcoming applause for Alan went on far longer than usual. I was starting to wonder whether the audience would even let Alan say his first line. Everything seemed to go just perfectly! Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio(?) was sitting 2 rows behind me. The final curtain was wonderful! Standing ovation and extra curtain call. Flowers were given to both Lindsay Duncan and Alan. Alan applauded the audience, and finally had to waive good bye to us. He even blew a kiss! I didn't wait at the stage door (I never do). I look forward to reading the stage door accounts of our brave friends.
Ellen
New York, NY, - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 17:04:37 (PDT)

Thanks to Helen for the explanation of "coucil estate." I had in mind something comparable to "trailer parks" in the US, especially in the rural areas. Am I correct in assuming that there is a stigma to being from a council house, as it is here to be from a trailer park and the projects, no matter how nice one's house/apartment/trailer may be? Thanks much.
Kat H
Kent, OH USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 16:47:00 (PDT)

To those thinking Alan Rickman will be in "Whose Afraid of Virginia Wolfe," he has rather resoundly denied it to those who have asked him after seeing him in Private Lives. As has denied he will be in it to several fans now (according to the email chatlists anyway), I would imagine its not an idea to pin great hopes on him being in the play in NY...
Sally
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 16:36:51 (PDT)

I just wanted to say to all the people who have sent in reviews of PL, a big "Thank You"! It has been appreciated by all of us on this GB who will never get to see AR. Keep posting them PLEASE! AR loves to travel and he will return to the State's. AR is so good to his fans- that's why I think, I respect him and his work so much. He is so giving of his time to everyone. Enjoy AR tonight everyone! Bye.
Barbara the Aussie <hermione(underscore )3@hotmail.comfoo>
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 16:29:54 (PDT)

Fausta--enjoyed the September Rickmanista very much, and the list of symptoms/conditions is a riot. I would add one: "Post-Rickmatic Stress Syndrome," which occurs after close and lengthy exposure to Rickman and whose physical symptoms include dizziness and heart palpitations, or manifestations of depression that the experience has ended. (Such as the close of PL!) The sufferer may require the support (literally) of close friends--or a convenient wall will suffice. May also be known as the "swoons" or the "vapours." Best known treatment is to be stayed with champagne and comforted with chocolate, preferably while reclining on an elegant Regency-era fainting couch. ;-)

Mary Anne--greetings to Mary Anne in Texas! Stop in next door and read Flights of Fancy anytime. 8-)
Spelled with an "e", USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 16:25:42 (PDT)

I enjoyed meeting the woman at the theater today in row b
julia <deborahrm48@aol.comfoo>
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 16:16:08 (PDT)

Georgiana!

Please raise the signal ratio here and tell us how it went! Inquiring minds are dying to know!

Barbara the Wallpaperer
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 16:12:16 (PDT)

He's coming back to England soon, I can't wait. Hmm, I wonder which airport... *plots* I want to stand outside for the Harry Potter premiere. I think I'll faint if I see him. What if I win tickets to actually see the film at the premiere? Oh dear, I'm acting like an 8 year old, kill me!! Becky x
Becky S <misscarbonkid@hotmail.comfoo>
Surrey, England - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 15:39:29 (PDT)

This is a really cool Web site. I just thought that it was really freaky when I read part Figths of Fancy (I think that is what it is called) and saw my name in it (I only one person that spells Mary Anne with an E at the end and that's me). And I just found out that I have the same Birthday as him. This is just to weird. But I still like ur Web site, cuz Alan Rickman is the best actor in the world.
Mary Anne <SccrQueen10@lcyos.comfoo>
Dallas, Tx USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 13:06:04 (PDT)

::sigh:: alan has to go back butwe all hope for a speedy return back to the states.
sammi
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 12:38:56 (PDT)

Just wondering if anyone saw this yet. I just saw at bn.com of a Limited Edition set Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Fluffy Gift set. What's in it??? Will there be extra stuff in it (more Alan Rickman--sigh!)? Just wondering.
Mesmer's Girl
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 12:04:23 (PDT)

30 minutes until he goes on. Everyone sitting in the theatre...

Well, he has to come back to win his Tony!
Sad
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 11:40:33 (PDT)

Well let's keep our fingers (and toes!) crossed for "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf"!
So is he on stage right now... for the last time for PL? (sob) Come back to the U.S. soon, Mr. Rickman!
Deborah
AZ USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 11:28:45 (PDT)

Amanda: Don't: I feel terrible. Don't leave me for a minute, I shall go mad if you do. We won't talk about ourselves any more; we'll talk about outside things, anything you like, only just don't leave until I've pulled myself together

*sigh*
All good things must end *sigh*
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 11:20:02 (PDT)

I hope he's going to come back to Broadway really, really soon. We just can't get enough, can we?
Steph
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 11:02:16 (PDT)

I'm hoping someone will be able to find the final tally for PL attendance rates/ticket sales. I'd be interested to know how they did.
Harlii
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 11:01:06 (PDT)

stacie I didn'twant to scare ne1, besides my mate did it. Bremen his phonenumber wasn't in a phonebook as his number is x-directry so if your english go into a phonebox and you will see numbers you can ring and ask for his number. 1 number me and my mate rang wouldn't give it so we called a phone number just for england and found it. They ask wether you want to call him for buissness and wot not. But my mate just said 2 he has moved recently and I am related to him, I missed placed his number". Stacie I am in high school or secondary school as we say in england + I dont like alan rickman and we didnt scare rima!
drkstrike
- Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 10:49:04 (PDT)

In a bit of a blue mood today... last day of PL, and Alan will soon be leaving New York. I know there must be others feeling this way. Still, I know I was lucky to have seen PL and Mr. Rickman twice.

Elizabeth, UK -- I found your post from Jan. 12, 2002, identifying the Bach music from TMD. Thank you for that. Are there any CDs you would recomend which would have those pieces (most importantly the Cello Sonata No 3 in G Minor)? I have thought about getting the Movie Adagios CD, but I'm not sure.

Jamie: Do you want me to go?
Nina: No, never never never...

...sigh...
Christine
USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 10:41:14 (PDT)

Though I am only 14 I think Alan Rickman Is Highly Attractive!!!!!He's a wonderful actor.I love His voice!It's deep and soothing and I love his accent!
An Obssesed Teen
Cinci, Oh United States - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 09:38:31 (PDT)

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