Lance Bass...screens documentary "Mississippi I Am" at Outfest!

N’SYNC’s Lance Bass is slated to screen a documentary he produced at Outfest which launches next week in Los Angeles.

“Mississippi I Am” was inspired by Constance McMillen – a lesbian who sued (and won) - a lawsuit to take her girlfriend to the Prom.

Bass not only attended the “Second Chance Prom” – but also – acted as Emcee at the highly-publicized event which attracted students three hundred strong.

The sexy young heartthrob (who came out a few years ago) was keen on producing a film about LGBT youth, but found it difficult to get a project kick-started until the McMillen case happened along.

Because of his involvement with the popular Boy Band – and for personal reasons – Bass struggled with coming out as well.

One of the problems?

“There weren’t too many successful role models at the time,” he confided to one local reporter on a recent press junket.

Because most of the gay spokespersons were often made fun of, he resisted stepping forward into the glare of the spotlight. Bass acknowledges now that he wishes he came out sooner.

“Having relationships in your teens is important to one’s growth. You get heartbroken. You get crushes. I would have loved to experienced that.”

“Mississippi I Am” tosses a searing lens on gay youth struggling to come out in the Bible Belt region of the South.

“You are brainwashed to think like your parents. That’s why your parents care so much about you being gay. If your kids are gay, you’re not going to heaven,” he noted poignantly for the record.

In the final analysis, Bass hopes that his documentary will change those views.

"Mississippi I am" screens at Outfest at the DGA on July 14th at 11:30 a.m.

See ‘ya there!

Channing Tatum...camps it up in drag with Jimmy Fallon!

One night this week (after the witching hour) Channing Tatum tossed aside his cheesey jockstrap, slipped into a pair of silk panties, squeezed into a chic flowery frock (and fright wig) and camped it up on air with perky talk-show host Jimmy Phallon in a hilarious sketch.

“I’ve got tickets to One Direction,” he quipped at one point in the off-the-wall comedy segment.

Frankly, he reminded me of a bevy of drag Queens I’ve crossed paths with – or have known personally – over the years. Just betcha, he could give the West Hollywood Cheerleaders a run for their money, eh?

Do you rollerskate, Ms. - um - Mr. Tatum?

The spot was a hoot, by the way.

After that surge of explosive testosterone in "Magic Mike", I expect it was refreshing for the hot-to-trot heartthrob to reveal his feminine side for a change.

Soon, he’ll be writing “Dear John” letters, I expect.

Can it be long before Channing Tatum comes “out”?

News at 11!

Ann Curry...snubs Matt Lauer on Today Show! Burning bridges?

When Ann Curry snubbed Matt Lauer on the Today Show yesterday morning, the tongues began to wag in newsrooms and living rooms around the country.

In spite of the Network’s sly attempt to maneuver the co-anchor off the once-popular morning talk show without a nasty spat in the glare of the spotlight, it was evident from what went down on the broadcast that Curry was being shown the door.

Her farewell speech said it all.

“For all of you who saw me as a groundbreaker, I’m sorry I couldn’t come carry the ball to the finish line. But, man, I did try."

From where Matt Lauer sat, she was more the “ball breaker” judging by the gossip that was circulating in newsroom gossip circles of late. Apparently, she was “bitchy” and rubbed key players at the Network the wrong way, if what “they” say is true.

In the wake of her heartfelt musings on air - which brought a tear to her eye – it didn’t escape anyone’s attention that when Matt leaned over to give her a peck on the cheek – she turned away.

The surprised high-profile host nearly ended up kissing dead air! The look on Matt’s face was priceless. If ‘ya ask me, he was furious, judging by the look in his eye.

Earlier on in the segment, Matt insisted it wasn’t a “good-bye”.

“We’ll probably have you back to board a plane or jump out of one,” he kidded.

But, after the notorious snub yesterday, I expect he’ll be the first to try and “push her out” the open door of the aircraft midflight.

Good riddance?

Apparently, there was some friction between the two. Insiders swear the normally congenial host gave the nod to give her the “heave ho”.

Before the dust had settled, Lauer was chatting up her replacement (no official announcement has been made yet but they say it is Savannah Guthrie) in a segment a couple-of-hours later this morning.

That Lauer is cold, man!

Just recently the balding TV personality demonstrated his skills at shadow-boxing, too, when rumors persisted that Ryan Seacrest was waiting in the wings to oust him from the Today Show when contract talks allegedly went awry with the Network Brass.

Lauer aced out the effervescent DJ-cum-Producer in about two-seconds flat, but not before negotiating a long-term iron-clad agreement and a big fat pay check to boot.

But, does Lauer have the midas touch when it comes to almighty ratings?

News at 11!



Savannah Guthrie

People Like Us...flawed entertaining drama! Chris Pine & Michelle Pfeiffer star!

Unfortunately, “People Like Us” is a film that I can’t discuss too thoroughly without spoiling the experience for filmgoers. So, I am forced to tip-toe around the carefully-placed “land mines” somewhat.

Of course, I can give a thumbs-up on the drama – after all – for the most part (except for a-couple-of glaring flaws) the script is fairly well-written and the filmmaking effort is pretty solid.

Obviously, the visually-appealing project was crafted as a vehicle for Michelle Pfeiffer to transition gracefully into “older” roles on the silver screen. The major problem with this – in the instant scenario – is that Pfeiffer may be too young to play Chris Pine’s (Sam) mother. Or, just maybe, Pine is too old to assume the role of her only male child.

It’s a bit of a shock to catch Pfeiffer on screen all “washed-out” and looking old and gray. But, her characterization quickly captivates the audience and they settle in for the long haul (!).

Pine doesn’t disappoint either in spite of the fact he overacts on occasion. For starters, his onscreen presence is quite remarkable. His dark handsome look beguiling!

The long and short of it?

Both actors are professionals who turn in highly believable performances that resonate and touch the audience.

But, it is a teenage actor who assumes that role of Elizabeth Bank’s son - Josh - who steals the limelight (Michael Hall D’Addario). What a natural!  I expect that when the audiences are drawn in to packed houses this week that his star will soar in showbiz heaven.

Elizabeth Banks (Frankie) is no dumb show, either. Ms. Banks especially excels in her dramatic scenes which are heart-wrenching.

The film opens with Sam trekking home to Laurel Canyon to console his mother on the eve of his estranged father’s death.

The first shocker packs a wallop.

When Sam meets up with his father’s lawyer to discuss details of the estate, his world is turned upside-down when it is revealed to him that his inheritance consists solely of his father’s record collection (worth a bit of money but not the liquid asset he was expecting).

Then, another surprise twist knocks the wind out of him, too. On his deathbed, his father left instructions that a shaving kit – with a stash of cash and a mysterious note with instructions inside – be handed-off to Sam.

Suddenly, he’s faced with a dilemma. Does he pocket the nest egg or fulfill his father’s deathbed wishes?

Fortunately, Sam’s curiosity gets the best of him, and he does the right thing.

This is a Hollywood movie, after all, folks.

The one thing you can say about “People Like Us” is that the movie isn’t predictable, though.

And, to its credit, it’s not a piece of Tinseltown fluff.

Although it is overly-long, and stretches one’s credulity at times, if the filmgoer puts those shortcomings aside, it may prove to be an enjoyable afternoon at the local movie house.

Worth the price of admission, for sure!

Somewhere Between...insightful documentary on chinese children adopted by U.S. parents!

When the “one child only” policy came into effect in China it caused a dilemma or two for families. If a woman was pregnant – and going through with the birth might violate the government’s one child rule – the parents might have to consider abortion.

On the other hand, abandoning a child after it came into the world would also result in stiff fines being imposed, as well.

In the well-crafted documentary “Somewhere Between” (which has won a bevy of awards at film festivals around the country) filmmaker Linda Goldstein Knowlton therefore chose to focus her searing lens on the subject of adoption.

Normally, films made on the subject have been from the point of view of the adoptive Caucasian parents or the adult adoptee. In this instance case, the adopted children tell their own stories to camera.

The film - in fact - puts the spotlight on three years in the lives of four young women (Haley, Jenna, Ann, and Fang) who were originally abandoned - then placed in orphanages - where they were eventually rescued by residents of the U.S.

Essentially, Knowlton (who adopted a child from China) chronicles their emotional coming-of-age with great sensitivity (for the most part) and with sincere passion.

On screen the girls ultimately ask the question – who am I? – and subsequently come up with some surprising – and at times humorous – answers after some reflection.

“I’m a banana,” one teen giggles.

“I’m yellow on the outside, but white on the inside.”

As they explore their individual destinies, they come to terms with their own sense of identity and feelings about family and “belonging”.

At times, they sadly refer to themselves as the “others”.

According to the producers - cultural disconnects, stereotyping, and race - are still prevalent in our society (even in modern-day America in spite of our so-called sophistication).

This is evident in in one scene where one of the young teens is quizzed by a male student at her locker during recess.

“Do you have white parents?”

When she nodded in the affirmative, he probed further.

“Did you live in an orphanage?”

In spite of angry protests from the other students present, the young Asian-American teen remained “cool”. I imagine that on the “inside” she was crying, though. It was heartbreaking to watch.

At one point in the film the adoptive parents help their daughter track down her birth parents to resolve unresolved issues from the past.

When a gentleman steps forward and announces he’s her birth dad, DNA tests are taken to verify the facts for the official record.

Once it has been determined that he is the birth father - arrangements were made for the birth parents, the adoptive parents, officials - and the young gal - to meet and gather all the facts surrounding her birth, abandonment, and subsequent adoption.

As the young teen stood with a forced plastic smile on her face, her birth mother described in detail how she disposed of the child that fateful day when the decision was made to abandon her.

That was one of the few scenes I highly objected to. It disturbed me that they would subject the child to such a disturbing experience that would undoubtedly remain in her consciousness for the rest of her life.

I know from whence I speak.

I was a foster child, after all.

Around the age of seven, I recall playing happily in the living-room one day, when a stranger came to the door out-of-the-blue. My mother handed him a paper bag containing my clothes – at which point – he walked me to a waiting car at the curb.

With no explanation, we drove off down the street. As I looked back out the window, I spotted my mother crying on the front porch stricken with grief.

That scene will be indelibly etched in my memory forever!

I expect that in the instance of the young subject in the film -  the authorities and her adoptive parents – thought it would be good therapy.

Bullsh**!

I say shame on the director for including the scene in the documentary. After all, the four young ladies featured in the doc are happy well-adjusted kids today, in spite of their humble beginnings. Why look back?

“I hope the film will create an emotional experience for viewers, and in the process educate and help create a language that helps describe what it means to be “other” in the U.S. I also hope the film will inspire reflection on how we all form our identities, and on our growing global and personal interconnections, especially those networks of women and girls that have been formed due to this large wave of adoptions,” underscored the director in a press release to the media.

At a Q & A this past week at a screening at SoHo House, Knowlton noted that today it is more difficult to adopt a Chinese child because more adoptions are taking place within the country by Asian citizens.

Yes, charity begins at home.

"Somewhere Between" is slated for a release on August 24th at the IFC Center in NYC.

Another release will follow on September 14th at the Landmark Nuart in Los Angeles.

Catch it if you can!

Motorcyclist...near fatal crash with Mercedes in WeHo! Wrong-way driver!

This morning during rush hour traffic this hapless motorcyclist nearly ended up in a near-fatal crash because of a driver in a Mercedes obviously driving the wrong way towards oncoming traffic on Santa Monica Boulevard!

The dude was able to wheel away his bike unhurt (and unscathed) fortunately!

American Apparel...posts sign! No sweatshops! Made in USA!

It's a sign of the times, I guess!

American Apparel has posted a sign on the face of their clothing outlet in West Hollywood drawing attention to the following facts:

Made in USA
Sweatshop Free
Fair Wages

Kudos for the American Manufacturer!

The Daily Shout (by Julian Ayrs)...pass the cheese, please!

Have you ever noticed that the “holes” in a brand of popular cheese have gotten a lot bigger in recent days?

Frankly, I’d prefer to snatch up the “other” selections on the shelf, if only to be sure that I get my monies worth!

I hate to pay for cheese that isn’t there, after all!

Sure, there may be less calories, but it’s the principle of the thing, ‘ya know?

Michael Phelps...he's back! Gold Medalist beats out pal Lochte at U.S. trials!

He’s back!

Of course, I am referring to Gold Medalist Michael Phelps who came from behind in the final 50 meters last night at the U.S. trials  to defeat swim buddy Ryan Lochte in the 200-meter freestyle.

The mighty athlete hit the wall at 1:45.70 beating out Lochte by a mere five-hundreths of a second.

Even still, it’s a win!

At one point, an underwater camera caught sight of Phelps glancing sideways at his pal, as he subtly double-checked Lochte’s position in the shimmering water. Then, he roared on to victory, and a round of thunderous applause from enthusiastic fans in the stands poolside.

Was it a stumble on one turn at the wall that upset Lochte’s chances to beat out the “champ”?

In an interview with a news reporter after the race, it was evident that Phelps was in “tip-top” shape. Obviously the intensive work-outs in recent months paid off. The developed pecs, chiseled abs, and distinctive V-shaped torso were a testament to that.

Clearly, he's off the "bud", too.

The kid was in great spirits.

"We're going to have a lot more of this," Phelps quipped after the race.

Lochte and Phelps are slated to compete Saturday night in the 200 IM final. Somehow, I doubt it will be as thrilling as last night’s swim match, but we’ll all be tuning in to see!

Congrats, Michael!

CSC Credit Card Services...investigated by Federal Trade Commission!

It came to my attention that CSC Credit Card Services was releasing false, misleading and/or erroneous information to third parties (credit grantors) about me which resulted in damage to my name, reputation, and credit worthiness.

I quickly contacted CSC by U.S. Post in a deliberate effort to resolve the issues.  When there was no initial response, I sent out a second communication.  Again, to no avail.

In fact, as of this date, CSC has not responded to the allegations.

Subsequently, I was forced to lodge a formal complaint with the Federal Reserve System which has jurisdiction over that credit reporting agency in the United States.

Just yesterday, I received a “Certification and Notice” from the government agency informing me that based on the facts and evidence submitted, they are launching a probe with the aim of prosecution.

Their notice stated as follows verbatim:

The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Board) hereby certifies that there is reason to believe that records associated with your complaint, which was received on June 5th, 2012, including documents that you have submitted to the Board of Reserve Bank staff, as well as documents obtain from CSC Credit Services relating to your business with the organization and included in the Board’s file on your complaint (“your financial records”), are relevant to a legitimate law enforcement inquiry within the jurisdiction of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This certification means that the Board believes that the FTC is entitled to have access to information regarding your complaint. This certification is not a determination regarding the merit or substance of your complaint.

Copies of or information obtained in your financial records, lawfully in possession of the Board, have been furnished to the Federal Trade Commission pursuant to the Right to Financial Privacy Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C.A. Section 340 et seq.) for the following purposes:

To facilitate an investigation of your complaint to the FTC.

Because of the nature of the investigation – and the powers granted to the FTC by law - all other individuals who have suffered damages of a similar sort should also file a complaint with the FTC in order to bolster the probe with the aim of a successful prosecution of the case.

We’ll get these suckers, eh?

File a Complaint

Federal Trade Commission
Consumer Response Center
Room H-240
600 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C.
20580

 

Jack Nicholson (the early years)...authors delight at Book Soup!

Fans of Jack Nicolson will be thrilled to hear that two biographers are flogging a book on the megastar titled – “Jack Nicholson: The Early Years” – that is a fascinating and hilarious read.

The two authors – Robert Crane and Christopher Fryer – first hatched up the concept for their thesis when they were fellow students (and close friends) in college many moons ago.

Last night at a signing at Book Soup in West Hollywood, the engaging writers noted for the record that once they got the green light from their professor, it was just a matter of getting approval from the academy-award-winning actor.

A piece of cake, right?

“Yeah, right,” they joked.

After all, it did not escape their attention that A-list actors were usually surrounded by handlers – palace guards according to Fryer – hired to run interference with the uncouth masses.

Once they got “Jack’s” telephone number – by way of a chance encounter – it was a different story altogether.

Maybe it was their naiveté which saved them?

“When we got Nicholson on the phone, he invited us over to his house to discuss the project right away,” they beamed.

When they pulled into the dirt driveway – which he shared with neighbor Marlon Brando – they were surprised at the lack of security. At point, they were so excited at the prospect of nabbing Jack's approval that sloppy driving nearly sent their car spinning out-of-control over the side of a cliff in the exclusive enclave.

Whew!

Jack gave the eager beavers his blessing, but was adamant about one thing.

“I’m real busy. I can’t help you with it.”

Nicholson had just received a lot of acclaim for his role in "Easy Rider" and had recently been thrust into the glare of the spotlight.

Although the actor was no stranger to the film industry – at that point in his life he had about twenty obscure roles under his belt – people were just starting to sit up and take notice.

“Who is this guy?” was the common lament in show-biz circles.

For their thesis, the authors were intent on focusing on anti-heros in film – the image of which – Nicholson had helped shape in their estimation.

The book took about 4 ½ years to pen.

“In those days, there wasn’t any Internet, so it was tough drumming up photographs, facts, and information,” Fryer fessed up.

At one point, they diggered over a still they located which had been taken on the set of the movie "Chinatown".


There were three people in the photograph: Houston, Nicholson, and an unidentified woman (who appeared to be Faye Dunaway).

“Although we weren’t sure, we decided to publish it in the book.”

When a classy bound copy of the coffee-table book was presented to Nicholson, he was inclined to thumb through the crisp pages for a quick glimpse inside, a few years later.

“That isn’t Faye Dunaway,” he scoffed, when he stumbled across the still.

Darn!

They had taken a gamble and lost.

Today, they chuckle about it.

Whenever the winsome twosome approached an individual close to Nicholson for an interview, there was always one prevailing question put to them, by the way.

“Does Jack know about this?”

Once the individuals learned that the authors got a thumbs up from the star, they relaxed and opened up.

At the event last night one inquisitive guest wondered who they thought knew the actor best.

“Probably Karen Black,” they responded in unison.

Chasing down the actress (who they described as “Kookie”) for an interview was a difficult assignment, too.

But, it was Sally Struthers who was nearly their undoing.

The authors explained that they usually presented a “release” for their subjects to sign, so there would not be any problems with publishing the material.

For some inexplicable reason, they failed to secure one from Sally.

So, they were forced to retrieve one just before publication of the book.

However, Ms. Struthers appeared to be a bit of a slippery character to pin down.

She requested a copy of the transcript first before signing off.

When she came across some negative comments she made about Steve McQueen being “reckless” on the set she balked.

“We can’t publish this,” she wailed.

The incident coined a phrase.

Whenever they double-check an individual for a release, they ask themselves:

Has he or she been "stutherized"?

The book also contains some humorous admissions from the actor.

For instance, when Jack was asked why he agreed to act in a Barbra Streisand flop – “On a Clear Day you can see Forever” - he fessed up.

“I did it for the money. I needed the bread.”

But, he rationalized a bit.

“It was a film about ESP or something.”

So, in view of that, he thought it was okay.

Well, it gave him some wiggle room, anyway!

The authors made quite a revelation last night too in respect to editorial decisions that were made in respect to Nicholson’s childhood and upbringing.

Apparently, they learned early on that Jack was raised by his grandmother.

And, get this, when he was a boy he was under the impression that his true mother was his sister.

Although it was a bit of a shocker, and they would have liked the scoop, they opted to leave out those personal family matters.

Later, a major daily published the story - and subsequently -  the facts are a matter of public record now.

Today, they feel good about their decision, though.

“When Jack signed a copy of the book for us, he thanked us for making things nice.”

I expect that the Jack Nicholson biography on his early years will fly off the shelves.

By the way, I was in Jack Nicholson’s presence just once.

When I was residing on Flores Street in West Hollywood years ago, an art gallery owner – by the name of Nicholas Wilder – invited me to an exhibition (David Hockey, I think).

At one point, just before I left, Jack Nicholson casually strode in sporting a Hawaiian shirt, white pants, and loafers (if I recall correctly).

He was polite and low-key.

Curiously, shortly after I started to head home, I had another brief encounter with Truman Capote (who was heading off to Nick’s gallery to also take in the show).


Post: 07/02/2008

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/07/truman-capotea-brief-encounter.html

That’s Los Angeles for you!

You never know who you’ll meet – when – or why.

Such is the appeal of the City of “lost” Angeles.

Mysterious woman captivates...SoHo House a rooftop paradise!

Last night I was dashing up the stairs of the 9200 Sunset building to attend a screening at the SOHO House, when I spotted a glamorous woman - dressed-to-the-nines with a luxurious dishy “do” - hiding behind chic oversized designer shades (which masked most of her pretty face).

The mysterious femme fatale took my breath away!

As I swung the front doors open wide to enter the hall, she glided forward – and past me – as she half-whispered in a soft sexy voice:

“Hi, babe!”

I nearly fainted dead away as she strode by confidently.

If I were a director, I’d cast her pronto. The charismatic young lady was so darn stunning, and just oozing with distinctive star quality, after all!

By the way, have you ever attended a screening at the SoHo House on the Penthouse floor? If you can locate the ultra-private club upstairs on the top of the world, it’s worth the adventure pursuing the adrenalin-rushing experience.

For those of you not clued in, the Soho House in West Hollywood was opened in the spring of 2010 and occupies the top two floors of the spectacular 14-story building.

The bar in the Sky penthouse has so much to offer.

For starters?

Once a guest steps off the elevator and enters the plush lobby, the breathtaking views will knock the most-jaded of individuals right off their feet. And, the exquisite gardened dining area (covered with a retractable roof) lined with divine olive trees, has to be experienced to be believed!

Alight in a comfortable sitting room, sip on a cocktail in the romantic intimate bar, or screen a movie in private like little old moi!

Bubbly, anyone?

LA Film Festival...Director Stephanie Allain incompetent & unprofessional!

A handful of the films were excellent (People Like Us, The Queen of Versailles, the Invisible War, A Band Named Death, CatCam) and the guests offered up conversation that was sparkling, intelligent, and insightful – but now – the high-energy hoopla surrounding the LA Film Festival is about to wind down now that the closing night gala is upon us.

Consequently, it’s time to pause and reflect on the high-profile annual event that hit town this week.

Unfortunately, ticket holders and members of the press alike, faced a few dilemmas during the festival because of the incompetence and a bad attitude on behalf of the Festival Director Stephanie Allain.

For example, some reporters complained that when they initially applied for their press credentials, there were excessive delays and miscommunications that cast a poll on the festivities.

In some instances, film critics were unable to RSVP for red carpet events, Galas, and after-parties because they didn’t receive their press passes until deadlines had passed.

Consequently, members of the media were denied tickets to the opening and closing-night galas, for instance.

To make matters worse, Stephanie Allain failed to address the problems after-the-fact, when they were brought to her attention.

One gent grumbled that he sent Ms. Allain an e-mail asking for her assistance, but, she didn’t even bother to give him the courtesy of a reply.

That’s pretty lousy, if ‘ya ask me!

In press interviews, Allain gave the impression she cared about the festival attendees, but the facts prove otherwise.

The woman is a phony, in a nutshell, folks.

Others criticized Allain’s selection of films that screened at the LA Film Festival this year. Some lamented that a majority of the flicks were leftovers from other film festivals (Sundance, for instance).

The program was unbalanced, too, because it tended to focus on just one or two sectors of the community-at-large, another griped.

“If I have to see another movie about a child in trouble, I’ll go crazy,” one journalist tweeted, or something to that effect.

Some members of the media also complained that two employees in the LA Film Festival's publicity department (Kasey Lubin and Elise Freimuth) - not only acted unprofessionally - but discriminated against them.

Whenever there were slip-ups or oversights the winsome twosome (!) gave reporters the run-around - and ultimately - ruined the Festival experience for them after leaving a bad taste in the mouth.

For the most part, the festival was quite a fun-filled enjoyable experience for me. Usually, I pop into the mixers and after-parties for just a few minutes, then high-tail it out of there.This year, I plunked myself down and engaged in a smattering of thought-provoking discussions on film.

And, I made a few  special friendships along the way.

There were a few down moments at the otherwise glittering night soirees, however.

For example, after plucking up a glass of sparkling wine on Friday night (courtesy of a sponsor) I was embarrassed to return to my little perch and spy at least two guests (who joined my circle later unannounced) tossing pistachio shells on the floor (where they quickly became trampled underfoot).

Talk about a lack of class.

Were these folks born in a barn, or what?

Two Indian ladies were spied in one corner surreptitiously sneaking about twelve beer glasses into their over sized bags.

Sheesh!

Ironically, after posting an item about paparazzi who annoy celebrities when they get too up-close and “in-the-face”, the next day a guest at the filmmakers lounge dashed up and snapped furiously in my own mug shortly after I entered the tent after a screening.

When he scurried off, my new-found friends raised an eyebrow-or-two, and were quite taken aback.

But, it was the woman trying to “glom” on to me all week that was the most annoying of all.

The fiftyish gal – attired in a frightful mismatched outfit (with a botched bleached “do”) kept barging into my intimate circle of friends in a bold-faced effort to take the stage (in the bluntest ugliest way).

I tried to be as polite as possible, but I was tempted - at one point - to scream out:

“Security!”

At the end of the mixers every night, at last call for the bar, greedy uncouth guests swooped around the filmmakers lounge and proceeded to snatch up bags of chips and nuts (which they quickly stuffed in their already-bulging pockets).

Are times that hard, really

News at 11!

By the way, later on this week, I will post a few reviews on the films I caught (especially since a few are about to be released in the very near future at a Theatre near you).

As Bugs Bunny would say:

“That’s all for now, folks!”



 

Magic Mike...McConaughey & Tatum get into bitch fight on Entertainment Tonight!

There appeared to be a bit of rivalry – and bitch fighting – going on between Matthew McConaughey and Channing Tatum in an interview last night on Entertainment Tonight.

Meow!

For example, when the co-host of the show dropped a comment about strippers and Tatum’s wife, McConaughey was quick on the uptake.

“Well, she married a stripper,” Matthew sniped at Channing wickedly.

At this point, Tatum gave the man – who gives great a** - a piercing sideways glance.

Was he pissed at the put-down, or what?

“Once a stripper, always a stripper,” McConaughey continued to rub it in.

“Well, there’s a little stripper in everyone,” Tatum shot back in his defense (as he licked his wounds).

Which begs the question.

Did Tatum bump-and-grind his way to the top?

Folks would pay a pretty penny to watch Tatum and McConaughey between-the-sheets, just betcha, eh?

Heh, how about a sequel on porn stars! Seems like the next logical step, after all.

Especially now that the two studs are in the groove - broken g-string - and all!

That's an inside joke, by the way.

News at 11!

Santa Monica Public Library...security guards harass patrons! Librarians uppity & lazy!

If you’re inclined to trot down to the library to snatch up a book or rent a video, it may be wise to avoid the Santa Monica Public Library (across from the Goodwill) – unless, of course - you enjoy being abused.

Uh-huh!

The security guards not only treat the patrons like scum, but seize every opportunity to harass and annoy them before they even walk in. For example, the other morning at ten o’clock – just as the doors were swinging open – the guard on duty barked at the individuals waiting patiently in line:

“Wait until the doors are fully open!”

The truth of the matter?

No one had stepped forward or even tried to “rush” the door.

You only had to take a look at the guy (short and fat with all the personality of a worm) to figure out what his problem was. Just another a**hole overstepping his bounds and abusing his authority.

And, while I’m on the subject, it should be noted that one of the guards obviously has something to hide.

Get this!

Yesterday morning while I was waiting for the library to open so I could return a book, I switched on my video camera to view a couple of clips I recorded over the weekend. As soon as the guard spotted the camera, he turned his face and body away from the lens, and began “acting” like he was busy “doing something” in the middle of the empty lobby!

Is the dude a deadbeat dad avoiding child support?

A fugitive on the run?

An illegal immigrant?

Mighty suspicious behavior if you ask moi!

Meanwhile, the staff (librarians?) scattered about the library facility at a multitude of desks are just as bad. For the most part - they sit on their butts, pick their noses, and check their e-mail - all day. In fact, if a patron approaches them for assistance, they’re as slow as molasses in January when it comes to responding. And, appear to be totally put out by having to lift one finger, you betcha!

One gal is a mean old broad, alright.

If a patron dashes to catch the elevator door before it slides shut he screeches at them:

“Don’t run!”

The woman is an neurotic mess!

When I was a kid I used to watch old films on late-night TV. In that era, the librarian was always portrayed as a woman of all sweetness and light. Today, they’re just a posse of classless low-life’s who could give a damn.

I say, turf ‘em out!

Hire on some folks who’d appreciate a steady job, benefits, and a comfy seat to park their fat ass on all day.

Why don’t you apply today?

The Newsroom...Aaron Sorkin's talky, intelligent fast-paced drama potential hit! Jeff Daniels superb!

On Friday night excited tickeholders crept to the edge of their plush seats at the Regal Theatre to catch Aaron Sorkin’s latest offering - “The Newsroom” - up-close and front-center.


Although the drama (starring likable Jeff Daniels) is a 10-hour series slated to run on HBO (the season opener was just broadcast last night on Sunday June 24th) Sorkin fans were treated to a sneak peek at the LA Film Festival due to a special arrangement with the cable network.

After the screening, Aaron Sorkin – who some consider a creative genius - stressed for the record that it was his express intention to entertain the masses.

In the event you've been hiding under a rock somewhere, "The Newsroom" is an insightful inside-look at breaking-news stories on a fictitious network by the name of ACN Cable News.

In the 1st segment – which Sorkin described as the prologue – the talented writer (and honorary Executive Producer) focused on the BP oil spill tragedy and did not disappoint. For some, the preachy tone may have been a turn-off, but I expect the high drama that unfolded lured others in, no problem.

It was like sitting down to a good mystery, folks!

The spanking new HBO project has all the elements necessary to be a surefire hit such as top-notch writing, a handsome cast, great direction, and - of course -  a dollop or two of high drama.

On occasion, Sorkin put the spotlight on "style" to get his points across to the audience in the Q & A session after the screening.

For instance, I was inclined to take umbrage with the fast-talking dialogue and lightning-rapid-pace of the opening scenes.


Sorkin explained that the actors were not nervous or rushed in the opener, but rather, following his direction.


"When I was a kid, characters in movies – and adults around me – talked smart and fast," he recalled in so many words.

“I couldn’t do that,” he alleged with a sheepish look on his face.

I doubt that very much (Aaron is always downplaying his talent and ability after all) but – it makes good copy - eh?

In the first few minutes of the segment the audience is introduced to the main character - Will McAvoy (Jeff Daniels) - a news anchor going through a meltdown similar to the one that “Norman Beal” suffered through in "Network".

Daniels is perfectly cast in a role where he manages to get under the skin of the character in a seamless natural performance that works well here.

After a perfunctory effort to set the stage, "Newsroom" suddenly jumps forward to a time frame a few months later where McAvoy becomes embroiled in a struggle for power once the carpet has been pulled out from under him by upper-level management.


For example, behind-his-back his boss (played with perfect pitch by Sam Waterston) sent his production team packing, and in their place, installed a former Executive Producer (lover?) and her loyal newsies to run his "radically-new" Nightly News Hour.

The brass were inclined to transform McAvoy’s image which – until now – had been compared to  that of a vanilla-flavored “Jay Leno” out to please and garner ratings without offending anyone in their comfy armchairs at home across America.

It is not until McKenzie McHale (Emily Mortimer) strolls in the door, that the well-written newsroom drama shifts into gear, however. At this juncture, the fast-paced storyline unfolds in a gripping and vastly entertaining way.


In a nutshell, "Newsroom" is a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the high-pressure world of the nightly news arena - and its intrigues - with a few personal twists tossed into the mix to give it a human touch.


Though a bit over-the-top – melodramatic, at times – the characters will obviously find their stride in coming weeks.


3 ½ Stars!

Jack-in-the-Box...wacko woman stalks me! Shades of Leonard Cohen incident!

One of the problems with residing in Los Angeles is that the percentage of “weird” or “sick” people is higher.

That ugly fact suddenly dawned on me in recent days when a wacko woman - with psychological problems - started to stalk me at a fast-food outlet.

For example, in the morning (when I pop into Jack-in-the-Box to sip on a cup of java, munch on a Breakfast Jack, and peruse the morning newspaper) out-of-the-blue one day a middle-aged woman strolled up to my table and asked to borrow my newspaper.

Without any hestitation, I offered it up.

After all, I’m in to recycling.

But, the kind gesture turned out to be a mistake!

Thereafter, the woman would appear out-of-nowhere every time I entered the fast-food-outlet and try to strike up a conversation.

Although I am basically a kind person - the truth of the matter is this - that she not only began to annoy me, but also, starteded to interrupt my work (penning movie reviews and celebrity news items for the Tattler) in the process.

So, the day-before-last, I was forced to take a course of action to keep her at bay.

Whenever she approached me to say hello, I simply ingored her.

Could she take a subtle hint?

Obviously not!

Today, when I was jotting down notes in my journal - she tried to corner me - and get my attention once again by yelling "hello" across the busy eatery.

In a nutshell?

The woman clearly can't cope with the rejection.

Then, something disturbing happened this morning about twenty minutes later, after she tried to get my attention.

The oddball got up from her table, strolled past mine, and barked at me:

“Have a good day, buddy!”

I didn't even bother to look up.

For starters, my name is not buddy.

Moreover, I certainly don't intend to encourage her by acknowledging her very existence.

At this juncture, I thought I should document the events by publishing this post, and in case anything happens.

You know what happened to Leonard Cohen when he recently rejected an emotionally-disturbed woman.

Next time she stalks me, I'll simply call the police and get a restraining order, if necessary.

And, how was your day?

Stay posted for updates, eh?

People Like Us...misleading trailer dishonest! Not a romance!

Although “People Like Us” is a well-crafted film with stellar performances by Chris Pine and Elizabeth Banks, the producers are misleading filmgoers with a “trailer” that misrepresents the storyline.

In a preview clip, images give the impression that there is a “romance” between the two lead characters pictured.

Nothing could be farther from the truth!

While “People Like Us” (which also stars Michelle Pfeiffer who's married to David E. Kelley) may be a “feel good” film when the rose-colored-glasses fairy-tale ending brings the curtain down (go figure!) there are quite a few bumps – even a bit of violence – along the way.

Fo example, in one scene - when Pine’s character reveals the awful “truth” - it triggers a knock ‘em down drag-out fight which hardly warms the heart, folks!

In another scene, out-of-the-blue, Michelle Pfeiffer’s character slaps her son viciously in the face.

And, it’s never explained, as to why.

Filmgoers have to figure it out for themselves, I guess.

Personally, I am appalled that the producers would manipulate the screen images in the way that they have, given the scripted material.

They obviously did so for two reason.

One, to lure film fans into the theatre, under a false pretense.

And, two, to ensure that when the truth is revealed it will have a greater impact on the unsuspecting audience.

This is not a light romance, folks.

It is a serious drama, about important issues, so be forewarned.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted romance – especially between the two leads promoted in the trailer – look elsewhere, eh?

Bad flicks & sex...quote by Julian Ayrs!

Being forced to

endure

a screening of

a

bad

flick

is almost worse

than

icky sex!

Julian Ayrs

The Daily Planet

A Collection of Poems

(and truisms)

Stephanie Allain...incompetent Director Of LA Film Festival unprofessional! Closing gala tonight!

A handful of the films were excellent (People Like Us, The Queen of Versailles, the Invisible War, A Band Named Death, CatCam) and the guests offered up conversation that was sparkling, intelligent, and insightful – but now – the high-energy hoopla surrounding the LA Film Festival is about to wind down now that the closing night gala is upon us.

Consequently, it’s time to pause and reflect on the high-profile annual event that hit town this week.

Unfortunately, ticket holders and members of the press alike, faced a few dilemmas during the festival because of the incompetence and a bad attitude on behalf of the Festival Director Stephanie Allain.

For example, some reporters complained that when they initially applied for their press credentials, there were excessive delays and miscommunications that cast a poll on the festivities.

In some instances, film critics were unable to RSVP for red carpet events, Galas, and after-parties because they didn’t receive their press passes until deadlines had passed.

Consequently, members of the media were denied tickets to the opening and closing-night galas, for instance.

To make matters worse, Stephanie Allain failed to address the problems after-the-fact, when they were brought to her attention.

One gent grumbled that he sent Ms. Allain an e-mail asking for her assistance, but, she didn’t even bother to give him the courtesy of a reply.

That’s pretty lousy, if ‘ya ask me!

In press interviews, Allain gave the impression she cared about the festival attendees, but the facts prove otherwise.

The woman is a phony, in a nutshell, folks.

Others criticized Allain’s selection of films that screened at the LA Film Festival this year. Some lamented that a majority of the flicks were leftovers from other film festivals (Sundance, for instance).

The program was unbalanced, too, because it tended to focus on just one or two sectors of the community-at-large, another griped.

“If I have to see another movie about a child in trouble, I’ll go crazy,” one journalist tweeted, or something to that effect.

Some members of the media also complained that two employees in the LA Film Festival's publicity department (Kasey Lubin and Elise Freimuth) not only acted unprofessionally - but discriminated against them.

Whenever there were slip-ups or oversights the winsome twosome (!) gave the reporters the run-around ruined the Festival experience and left a bad taste in the mouth of some.

For the most part, the festival was quite a fun-filled enjoyable experience for me. Usually, I pop into the mixers and after-parties for just a few minutes, then high-tail it out of there.

This year, I plunked myself down and engaged in a smattering of thought-provoking discussions on film.

And, I made a few  special friendships along the way.

There were a few down moments at the otherwise glittering night soirees, however.

For example, after plucking up a glass of sparkling wine on Friday night (courtesy of a sponsor) I was embarrassed to return to my little perch and spy at least two guests (who joined my circle later unannounced) tossing pistachio shells on the floor (where they quickly became trampled underfoot).

Talk about a lack of class.

Were these folks born in a barn, or what?

Two Indian ladies were spied in one corner surreptitiously sneaking about twelve beer glasses into their over sized bags.

Sheesh!

Ironically, after posting an item about paparazzi who annoy celebrities when they get too up-close and “in-the-face”, the next day a guest at the filmmakers lounge dashed up and snapped furiously in my own mug shortly after I entered the tent after a screening.

When he scurried off, my new-found friends raised an eyebrow-or-two, and were quite taken aback.

But, it was the woman trying to “glom” on to me all week that was the most annoying of all.

The fiftyish gal – attired in a frightful mismatched outfit (with a botched bleached “do”) kept barging into my intimate circle of friends in a bold-faced effort to take the stage (in the bluntest ugliest way).

I tried to be as polite as possible, but I was tempted - at one point - to scream out:

“Security!”

At the end of the mixers every night, at last call for the bar, greedy uncouth guests swooped around the filmmakers lounge and proceeded to snatch up bags of chips and nuts (which they quickly stuffed in their already-bulging pockets).

Are times that hard, really

News at 11!

By the way, later on this week, I will post a few reviews on the films I caught (especially since a few are about to be released in the very near future at a Theatre near you).

As Bugs Bunny would say:

“That’s all for now, folks!”