Friday, April 28, 2006

Still Standing


I love the fact that my Jersey girl Cirie, is still in the game. Considering she was suppose to be the second member of the first merged tribe to go home, after Melinda - she has truly beaten the odds. I don't understand America's obsession with Terry, I find him to be smug and arrogant. While Cirie has really been playing the best game out there. She may not be the most physical, but she truly has perfected the mental aspect of Survivor to a tee. I would love nothing more then to see her go home with the million dollars, however do to her sunny personality and endearing manner, I expect once the game becomes a tad bit more cut-throat, she will be quickly cut. I doubt anyone would want to go into the final two with her. Shame, because if someone truly deserves to win, it's her.

Thursday, April 27, 2006

Blonde Ambition

Although I would have revolted if Kellie Pickler wasn't sent home last night from American Idol (her performance was sub-par to the others). Someone needs to be smart enough and give that girl her own sitcom or talk show, the dumb blonde act (yes, I think she's smarter then she plays on TV) works for her. If Jessica Simpson could build a whole persona out of it, Ms. Albemarle, North Carolina should have a bright career ahead of her.

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

Bare Essentials

Over the rainy weekend, me and James settled in for a nice evening of watching movies from Netflix and was most impressed by Mrs. Henderson Presents. Of course Judi Dench was mesmerizing as always as a widow who opened the Windmill Theatre in London, who showcased nude women during the 1930's & 1940's.

Also of note in the film was Will Young, as the gay star performer who sang and entertained the masses. Unaware of his star power in England as the first winner of Pop Idol, the British successor to American Idol, I was immediately drawn to his charm and charisma. After a bit of research on the internet, one has to wonder why he has never made a bigger impact here in the States - the boy has talent in spades, not to mention numerous awards and best selling albums. Makes you realize how small and unadventurous the American music scene is.

Monday, April 24, 2006

Vibe In Me


So it appears Colton Ford will be in NYC on Sunday night at Cielo, Little West 12 Street starting at 11pm. I'm not sure if he will be performing music from his up-coming album or just on hand to promote his music. But if you get the chance, he always puts on a good show and it would be nice to support him on his quest for a hit album. Of course, being beautiful always helps.

Friday, April 21, 2006

What Price Beauty?


Is it just me or is Tyra Banks becoming a mega bitch and a bit hypocritical. The woman who use to defend larger plus size models and the usual girls against Janice's honest, somewhat bitchy opinions, has the nerve to complain that Danielle could never be a CoverGirl with a gap between her teeth. I have three words for Tyra - supermodel Lauren Hutton. I will give Tyra props for fixing Joanie's snaggletooth and giving her a boost in her confidence. But, what I don't understand is why Tyra insists that Danielle fix, what doesn't bother Danielle. Besides, Danielle has been perfection in all of her photo shoots. I really hope she is able to stand her ground, however it looks like she's back at the dentist next week.

I really don't know how I will feel about Tyra's control issues lately. Only time will tell, but I will say this - shame on you Tyra for not promoting a slight imperfection, you're making some young girl out there feel she's not beautiful cause of the gap between her teeth. I hope you stick to your guns Danielle, winning Top Model or not.

Thursday, April 20, 2006

Words & Pixs


Today, I got to thinking about when I use to read religiously comics and got to thinking about one artist who stood out as someone who was taking comics to an even higher art form. With his expressive brush strokes and elegant line work, Paul Pope really stood out as a true original. Now, I no longer read or collect comics, but to this day his work still seems to resonate with me. I also found out today that a dear friend of mine Yuko Shimizu, who also produces work in the same vein has a dialog with him. I highly recommend you take the time and explore both of their website for some kick-ass drawings. You'll be happy you did.

Wednesday, April 19, 2006

The First Rule Of


The perfect movie to watch when you are feeling helpless and overwhelmed with life is Fight Club. You cannot get any better then Brad Pitt channeling Chuck Palahniuk's immortal Tyler Durden. One of the most brilliant characters to be developed in a long time. Then again this could also have something to do with Brad and my own newly acquired Mohawks. Either way, I might have to re-watch this film tonight.

Tuesday, April 18, 2006

Call to Arms


So I've been following the St. Maarten gay bashing case faithfully on Towleroad (thanks Andy, as always) and it came to my attention that if the island is not fond of gay people, then we should not support the island in any way, monetary or otherwise. What I suggest is that we do not spend our gay money at locations who are only interested in us when we are spending that money.

In the same breath, I suggest we contact gay organizations like Atlantis Cruises, who with their Freedom of the Seas tour visit St. Maarten, and suggest they change their itinerary or we choose to skip that tour altogether. The only way to be effective is to challenge those who oppose your way of life and by not rewarding these vacation destinations with your hard earned money is a start. We can be effective, if we just band together.

Monday, April 17, 2006

Unspeakable Joy


Nothing makes me happier then this photograph of Angelina Jolie & her daughter Zahara. Enough said. Enjoy today!

Friday, April 14, 2006

The Latest Buzz


So, finished the painting of my dear friend and kick-ass barber Andy and I cannot be more excited by the results. You can check out the finished painting (a detail which you can see above) on my website: www.danhalm.com. Seems appropriate to be listing this on my blog today because Andy is one of the men responsible for tonight's Buzzcock party at Siberia. So if you're in the mood to get your head shaved or rock a Mohawk, listen to some kick ass punk, ska and alternative music and grab a beer or two, the party starts at 10 pm. Enjoy the new painting and I'd love to hear some feedback.

above: detail from Untitled (Andy), 2006, gouache and pencil

Thursday, April 13, 2006

Another One Bites The Dust


I always find who gets eliminated on ANTM and interesting study, however with the elimination of Leslie last night - based on the challenges and her duck walk, I can see why she would have gone home. But that girl took some damn beautiful pictures. Weird thing about this season is there is no clear front runners - it is almost like any one of these girls could go home at any minute. The judges are very fickle this season. However, I see that Janice will once again be making an appearance on the show - why the hell don't they bring her back; she's the only one who seems generally interested in their model success. We never see Twiggy giving classes on how to work the runway or pose. Curious.

Speaking of eliminations, it appears the pretty boy escapes another week, even with the worse performance of the night on American Idol. I was generally surprised to see Bucky go home last night, with what I thought was his best performance on the show so far with Queen's Fat Bottom Girls. But, sometimes it's not about talent, so much as it is about the fantasy that a pop singer can portray. Bucky, married country performer. Ace, recently single non-threating pop vocalist with a pretty face and good body. Curious. What do you think, dear readers - I'd love to hear from you!

Wednesday, April 12, 2006

With Friends Like These


I recently caught Billy Sullivan's new exhibition Friends at Nicole Klasbrun Gallery. The show has an illuminous quality to the work which radiates from the moment you walk through the gallery doors. You can tell he is passionate about the men and women who grace his canvas. These brief moments of unguarded conversations between artist and muse, never fail to disappoint. If you are in Chelsea, do not miss this beautiful show. The perfect way to start your spring gallery hoping season off with a bang.

(image above: detail from Billy Sullivan, St. Jerome for Nicole, 2006, oil on canvas.)

Tuesday, April 11, 2006

Slither Come Hither


Saw the horror comedy Slither last night and of course swooned over Nathan Fillion once again. Between his perfect comedic timing and sexy understated confidence, this man deserves to be a bigger star. He was just as charming and heroic as the character he played in Firefly, but with some Southern charm thrown in for spice. I highly recommend the film for a fun night with some ooze, slime, zombies, alien slugs, an Air Supply song never to be heard the same way again, some thrills, chills and of course sexy Mr. Fillion.

Monday, April 10, 2006

Name Game


Congratulations to Gwyneth Paltrow & Chris Martin on the birth of their son Moses. Glad to see mother and child are healthy and sound. I know most media outlets were awaiting for a more produce friendly moniker, but I think Moses is a great name for a baby. Besides naming your son after a reference you make in a rock song written about your wife, is just cool.

I'm just amazed how the media did not haunt Gwyneth during this pregnancy and were respectful of her space. I didn't even know she was due so early. But I guess when you have a TomKat pregnancy (what, is she 14 months pregnant - elephants have babies quicker!), things like a second baby aren't super news worthy. Once again congratulations to the parents and enjoy the new patter of feet.

Friday, April 07, 2006

Phatabulous and Loving It


So Mo'Nique's new film PhatGirlz opens this weekend and I for one am extremely excited. Not only is Mo' a talented comedian with amazing timing, she also proves that not all Hollywood stars need to be a size zero to be a success. Hopefully the film will be number one at the box office this weekend and allow her the chance to star in bigger budgeted films. And if you have the chance rent Hair Show, she's amazing and so damn likeable. The girl's got talent, killer sense of fashion, an amazing smile, funny as shit, and lets not forget smart. Keep up the good work, Mo' - those skinny bitches ain't got nothing on you.

Thursday, April 06, 2006

A Prediction Comes True

Now, I hate to say I told you so, but I told you so. Poor Mandisa, gone before the likes of Bucky. Just proves that you can have all the talent in the world, but by bringing in an association with an anti-gay activist, poor song selection and without the support of the gay vote - you're gone. Shame, would have been killer to hear Mandisa belt out a Queen song.

Wednesday, April 05, 2006

Spin Control


Seems that American Idol producers listen to the rants and raves of fans and address those concerns on air, at least some of them. First Chris Daughtry's retooling of Johnny Cash's Walk The Line bearing a huge similarity to the band Live's version. Then last night they addressed the rumors that Kellie Pickler was playing the dumb blonde, to which she admitted she is that nieve (however, I say the girl knows how to play dumb like the best of them.)

However, the one thing the producers avoided live on the air was the Mandisa controversy that started after her gospel number two weeks ago. As reported by the Advocate, after taking the stage and introducing her number with "This song goes out to everybody that wants to be free. Your addiction, lifestyle, or situation may be big, but God is bigger!" Flags went up and after reviewing her profile on the Idol website it was discovered that she listed Beth Moore as her personal Idol. Ms. Moore is an author and lecturer who has ties to numerous ex-gay groups. I wonder if Mandisa's days are numbered now that she has alienated a huge part of her fan base, what gay man doesn't love a larger then life diva who can blow. Girl, not a smart choice and shame on the Idol producers for not looking deeper into what their contestants list on their site.

Not surprisingly the Idol producers responded that they do not comment on contestants personal lives. However they will jump to defend two of the contestants that Simon predicted will make the top three. It's just my observation dear readers. I think Mandisa will be out of the competition in the next two weeks. Shame, the girl's got talent.

Tuesday, April 04, 2006

Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves


So on Sunday, I went to the opening of a new exhibition which if you are in the lower east side you should check out. PS122 is hosting Bearings: The Female Form, curated by photographer Allen Frame. The show of women artists looking at the female form is chock full of interesting, powerful work. Including some great women I know including Elinor Carucci, Manuela Paz and Monique Perreault. The show is up until April 23rd, a not to be missed dear readers.

(Above: detail from Monique Perreault, Watching You, Watching Me, 2005, Silver Gelatin Print)

Monday, April 03, 2006

Ain't My First Time at the Rodeo


So Saturday night I saw the new gay romantic comedy Adam & Steve and was delightfully impressed. Granted you can never go wrong with Parker Posey in your movie, but what I enjoyed about this film was how it could at one part be a romantic comedy of errors, while tackling homophobia and men's insecurities to love - while ultimately proving that if you are open to love, it's out there. Thank you Craig Chester for the insightful and very funny movie. It's only playing in two theaters here in New York, but if you get the chance go see it. It's worth the trip to see it in a crowded room.