Colin is actually very good at tears....he has done it excellently in many TV series and films.....
Firth is never a t a loss for words is he ? The telephone scene: I find it hard to believe he didn't conjure up some sad moment in his real life to accomplish that scene: a breakup, a death in his real family a pet died------------something.
The most interesting interview with Colin Firth on A single man. Also thanks to the outstanding classy interviewer. But watch the movie first.