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One thing I love about reading blogs is you find the most interesting details. Thanks to Trent at Pink Is the New Blog, we get a link to see unrated screen captures of a full frontal Christian Bale from the brilliant unrated version of American Psycho. A performance so brutal and riveting, that I never understood how Leo was ever suppose to play this role.
I also believe this is the first role where people started to consider Christian Bale an actor who could carry a picture. The way he embodies the character of Patrick Bateman, is not only creepy and spot on, but tongue and cheek and wicked. Everything you would expect from a man who talks about the finer points of Huey Lewis and the News while wielding an axe. So thanks for the heads-up Trent.
Now that Angelina, Gwen, and Tom all gave birth, it's time for a new group of expanding waistlines. Leading the pack is TrimSpa spokeswoman and Playmate centerfold Anna Nicole Smith, yes she is with child. Her announcement came via a video clip on her website while floating poolside with her two dogs barking in the background.
I love the fact that she's going to keep her fans updated as she grows via additional clips on her site. I love someone so open to their fame and celebrity. Congratulations Anna, and here's too your new bundle of joy - however I really want to know who the father is. Care to give us a hint?
So this week's beauty moment is brought to you dear readers by Mr. Josh Lucas. Without a lot to blog about, I just thought I would highlight some of my favorite performances by the man who almost got me to see the remake of Poseidon. I said almost!
So first off, I have to say it - his smile just kills me (which of course is best highlighted in Sweet Home Alabama.) And of course he's never better then in the movies Session 9 (which is scary as all hell) and The Deep End and Undertow (he's never been more evil and appealing.) If you have a chance, see all of those films mentioned above for a good overview of this talented actor. Of course, you could also check out his performances in A Beautiful Mind, Wonderland & The Hulk. He never fails to disappoint.
So the internet is a buzz with a conversation that Jared Leto had during an online AOL chat where like Bowie before him, has admitted he is gay. Sort of. Of course, rockers have played the ambiguous sexual field for along time and even Jared hinted that he's like Morrissey - another figure who has danced on an a-sexual kick for ages. If nothing more, his admission to this has caused all sorts of PR for his band, 30 Seconds to Mars and ultimately generated the biggest buzz on the band yet.
Or maybe it is true and Jared is indeed a gay man, and only until recently been able to admit it to himself and is ready to come forward to the world. Maybe we can thank Colin Farrell and Oliver Stone for giving Jared a part in Alexander and awaking those desires. Who knows. Only time and another direct statement from Mr. Leto will tell. But of course, it's always good to have another 'out' public figure. So if it is true, congratulations of your bravery and perfect timing.
So with Memorial Day upon us, that can mean only one thing - a big summer movie is slated to open. This year, we are treated to X-Men: The Last Stand. A movie that should rake in tons of money over the weekend. The great thing about all three of the X-Men films is how timely the films are, in a gay subtexted kind of way. I will leave it to Ian McKellen who said it best "X-Men is a story about mutants, about people who feel disaffected with society and whom society is hard on. It appeals most to young blacks, young Jews and young gays," he goes on to explain it was the main reason he signed onto the films in the first place.
Besides the subtext, we are also treated to Hugh Jackman, who embodies the character of Wolverine body and soul. He's got the rugged, sarcastic, animalistic behavior down pat - it's no wonder there is talk of a Wolverine movie. He's a beloved character and Jackman delves into the part wholeheartedly - not to mention looks sexy as all hell doing it. Anytime Hugh wants to wear an A-shirt, flex his pecs and snarl, I'm there.
With the creation of the CW Network, both UPN and the WB networks combined their best hits in hopes of becoming a super-power network. One surprise that did not make it to the fall line-up was the television version of Aquaman. After having a two minute teaser trailer for the series leaked to MyTube (which has since been removed by Warner Bros. Television) fan outcry has been huge for this never viewed television program. Of course, rabid fans has launched successful bids for networks to save favorite shows with great success, but I don't think I've ever heard such a rumble over a show no one has ever seen one full episode to. So will the fans cause enough of a stir to have the show picked up or will this series end up never airing. I wouldn't hold your breath over it, but stranger things have happened dear readers. Stay tuned!
So if I had my way, tonight America would vote to make Katharine McPhee, the next American Idol. Granted she has not always had the most stand-out performances in the competition, but she truly possesses the star quality to have a successful career post Idol. Given the right producers and songs to sing, I can truly see her making a successful album or two. Of course, she will get to do that either way as all of the top two performers have gone on to record albums - some to great success, Clay immediately comes to mind - others quickly fade back to obscurity, hello Justin? So either way she's won, it's just a matter of time to see whether Taylor or Kat gets to release their single first. Enjoy the show!
I cannot begin to tell you how excited I am that my girl Danielle won ANTM. Thank God, Tyra and company were smart enough to eliminate Jade after the commercial performance, even though it appeared that Danielle might go home after Tyra's harsh critique. A congratulations to both Danielle and Joanie, who faced the hardest make-over ever on ANTM (dental work, ain't pretty), to come out two strong fierce competitors. And a special thanks to Danielle for breaking my Top Model curse of my favorites being eliminated when I least expect it, and going on to win the whole damn show. Work it out, girl. I know your life as a Covergirl is going to be fierce, accent and all.
The one thing I love about living in Manhattan is the randomness of celebrity sighting and how most people on the street are too busy to notice. While walking down 23rd Street yesterday, I noticed the amazing handsome Gerard Butler talking with two stunning women, casually discussing the fine craft of acting (it's what I heard as I walked past them.) Of course being the entertainment junkie I am, I immediately identified the actor who's most high profile films to date have been the sequel to Tomb Raider and the Phantom of the Opera.
However, his profile might be increased once he appears in the Frank Miller adaptation film 300 where he plays the king of the Spartans and appears in just a cape and small leather bikini underwear. Talk about causing a commotion; visit the website for more images.
Last night James treated me to Lindsay Lohan's new film Just My Luck and sadly, I hate to report this but the movie was lacking everything a good movie should have. Granted Lindsay possesses major star power and maybe if I was a 13 year old tween I might have enjoyed this sugar-coated mess of a film, but even then I have a feeling I would still have hated it. Of course, I expect Lindsay will bounce back with the new Robert Altman film which comes out later this season. Oh and Lindsay, don't worry Jodie Foster made some big stinkers in her career too.
While I'm happy for Aras for winning Survivor: Exile Island, who I'm most proud of is Cirie for kicking ass and surviving till the final four. Congratulations to both winners. She proved herself to be an invaluable player in the game, not bad for a woman who never spend anytime outdoors. It just goes to show you how important the social aspects play into the game.
One side note, I know that Terry dominated in the game, winning almost all individual immunities, but I still don't get why America loves him so much. I still find him to be a bit smug, arrogant and super competitive. Maybe, I'm not alpha male enough to understand his allure. Besides, he won the car - everybody knows you never win the million dollars if you walk away with a new car.
Anyhow, thanks again to the Survivor producers and staff for making another interesting season. I look forward to Survivor: Cook Islands. Maybe at some point, I will get to play this game and become part of the Survivor family once and for all.
So its apparent, rock stars don't win American Idol. However, it appears that Chris Daughtry will be asked to join a major signed rock group tonight at 7pm on Extra. The popular guesses are Creed and Fuel, both groups that Chris covered on the show. That leaves me with Katharine to root for. America smarten up, you made a big mistake Tuesday night. Let's not make the same mistake again next week.
Since Munich appears on DVD today, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to highlight the beauty that is Eric Bana. Having been amazed by this Aussie's charm and acting since the indie Chopper, you can't get any finer then Mr. Bana. He never fails to capture your attention - Troy, Black Hawk Down, even the disaster that is The Hulk - he always looks stunning and is flawless. I'm looking forward to the Curtis Hanson film Lucky You that he is currently shooting with Drew Barrymore. All I can say is 'lucky you' Drew for staring opposite this talented actor.
Proving once again, that she is without fail one of our biggest living icons, Madonna produces an amazing work of art with photographer Steven Klein in the pages of W Magazine. The 58 page layout features Madonna wearing equestrian splendor (including riding crop) and surrounding herself with stunning horses, in what can only be described as truly works of art. I'm glad to see that at the age of 48, she is willing to take risks and produce truly stunning visuals, while never compromising - this is truly the sign of a star.
So one of my favorite authors will be in town tomorrow promoting his new book, Possible Side Effects (which hit bookstore shelves today) at the Union Square Barnes & Noble at 7pm. I discovered Augsten Burroughs writing just before Running With Scissors became a huge success and have been a loyal reader ever since. You just don't get any better then Augsten's view of the world and his razor sharp wit. Having heard him speak at Barnes & Noble and the Great Hall at Cooper Union, he's always highly entertaining and crammed with fellow passionate fans, so I advise getting to the signing early. I cannot wait to see what tricks and treats, he's got in store for us this time.
Spend the weekend celebrating at Peter Rauhofer's birthday bash at the Roxy. Was packed with Peter's signature sounds and I was happy to see the audience was lively and packed onto the dance floor. I love the tribal feeling one gets surrounded by people there to dance and celebrate. And of course, it was always good to take the dance floor with good friends and company. I just wish Peter played there more often, like the good old days. But of course, not being a resident DJ, makes his party that much more special. Once again, happy birthday Peter, I hope you had as much fun as I did.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nothing makes me happier then this photograph of Angelina Jolie & her daughter Zahara. Enough said. Enjoy today!
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
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!
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
So every time I develop a favorite on ANTM, it can only mean one thing, doom for that girl. This is a cycle that happens season to season - Tocarra, Lisa, Brittany just to name a few. Hopefully this year will prove to be the deal-breaker with my girl Danielle. She's fierce, a strong competitor, beautiful and works the gap in her teeth like a black Lauren Hutton. She's everything the show needs to get out of the doldrums of two uneventful winners - you know who I speak of. Keep your game on girl, the prize is yours for the taking. Now let's hope my curse is broken.
With my brain not working today, I thought I would offer you dear readers a visual treat, in the form of fitness model and Godsend, Rusty Joiner. Take two and call me in the morning. Enjoy!
So Tyra finally smartened up and realized that a show about models should always include the wisdom and straight forwardness of Janice Dickinson. Janice returns tonight to give the remaining would be models a lesson in tough love and the ins and out of posing. Now Tyra, if you could just see it in yourself and your ego to let Janice return to the panel, my show would be complete. Janice, as always...much love and appreciation. Cannot wait for your new show on the Oxygen network.
I love people who fuck with the system, just when you think you have seen everything, something new and fascinating comes along. This is one of the reasons, I'm drawn to Buck Angel, not only did he put on an amazing showcase at this weekend's Black Party, but he is being true to himself. For those not familiar with his story, Buck was born a woman, transitioned to a man however retains he's vagina. Don't get me wrong, he is all man and a born performer.The best part about this is it makes everyone question their own sexuality, as I heard numerous men at the Black Party tell me how attracted to Buck they were. And this is what's so great, it goes beyond one's own conventions and draws out something very primal. I'm glad we have Buck in our community and look forward to seeing more from him.
After two days of sitting around and waiting for my name to be called, jury duty has finally come to an end. No case, no swearing on the bible, no courtroom drama... zip, zilch, nada. Granted, just like everyone else, I didn't really want to be assigned to a case, but damn if it is not boring just sitting in those few rooms - hours on end. The good news is I was able to finish the Dean Koontz book I bought about four months ago. 338 pages, flew by in two days. So it wasn't a total loss. And at least I got to people watch, which supplied me endless hours of inspiration. Not to mention, being in a room when the name Louis Lewis was called. Brilliant! You couldn't make up a better name.
With jury duty tomorrow, I thought it only fitting to talk about The History of Violence, starting a fantastic Viggo Mortensen. The film speaks of redemption, concealing one's past and starting over - and whether we can truly escape our past crimes or lives. Viggo's solid performance is backed by an outstanding supporting cast of Maria Bello, William Hurt and Ed Harris. The film recently came out on DVD and I recommend a viewing.My love affair with Viggo came way before he ever made those Tolken films, with a simple color photograph of a plastic lawn flower poolside. I can still see that picture crystal clear in my mind and can remember when I knew him as a talented photographer who exhibited at Robert Mann Gallery here in New York. I hope he still has time to make images like that, these days with his busy film schedule. And if anyone knows where one can get the catalog from that show, please let me know.See you in three days after my civic duty, where hopefully justice prevails and I have something interesting to talk about.
Certain rumors were put to rest at the 15th Anniversary party of the Roxy nightclub Saturday night. After a rousing performance by Kevin Aviance and his "Cunties" and the brilliant musical styling of DJ Brett Henrichsen, it was announced that the Roxy nightclub had just signed a five year lease on the building. So it appears we will have at least five more years of Saturday debauchery and dancing. See you on the floor, dear readers.
So it all started with Janice Dickinson (as everything should), today marks my one year anniversary of this blog and my entry about meeting Ms. Janice at her Barnes & Noble book signing. When I started out I had no idea what I was doing and if anyone would read this, but apparently I've had 2255 viewers since I've started this thing and the numbers seem to be growing. I thank you all dear readers and I promise that I will try and keep you posted with my obsessions with pop culture and my life. Crack open the bubbly and cut me a slice of cake, I'm ready to party.
So dear readers, it was a close call for Ace Young on last night's elimination show of American Idol. So he was only in the bottom three, but still I don't think anyone expected to see him there so soon. However, I was wondering if it was just me or is Ace attempting to bringing back the "hanky code", a way of gay men to commnicate their sexual preferences and desires. I just couldn't help but noticed this week on both nights, Mr. Young was spotted wearing one in his left back pocket. I'm not trying to 'out' him, cause we know he dates the actress from Half & Half, but one has to wonder if by flaunting his hankies, he's secretly attempting to allure the gay viewers to vote. Not that he would need to with a face and voice like that, but with stylists grooming our contestants, one has to wonder if there is not some subtext going on backstage. At least, by wearing it in his left pocket it promotes him as a TOP, now if we can just get him there next week. It's up to you dear readers.
Spoiler alert ahead. Since I don't subscribe to Showtime anymore, I have to wait for my The L Word fix when it comes out on DVD, however I do get glimpses of what I'm missing from time to time. I was saddened today to learn that my favorite character Dana, played brilliantly by actor Erin Daniels, recently met her demise due to cancer on the show. The saddest part about the loss of the character of Dana, was Erin's comic timing and the crazy situations they always seem to place her in - case in point was her obsession with her cat Mr. Piddles from season one. Her presence will surely be missed. However, the good news is that Erin Daniels is working on two new movies and a possible TV pilot. Good luck with your future endeavors Erin, I'll be watching.
The year was 1982 when I first spotted him. Shaking his ass in white leather in the sacred halls of Rydell High, and since then my undoubted crush has still remained in tack for Maxwell Caulfield. Today, I learned that he will be appearing off-Broadway in the show entitled Tryst, where he will play a conman who seduces love-starved women and according to the "press materials" will appear nude in the show. Talk about a way to fill seats! He still looks amazing at the age of 46, as the above photo showcases, and the play sounds like it might be a winner with twists and turns. Previews for the play start March 21 and it opens on April 6 at the Promenade Theatre. Tickets are $45 to $65. I expect with the allure of Mr. Caulfield in the bare, these tickets will go quickly.
I've recently become re-fascinated with the magician Criss Angel. His DVD Mindfreak is both captivating and at times completely nerve-biting. What I'm really fascinated by is his family and girlfriend, who sit back and watch as he performs these outrageous and sometimes deadly feats of magic. I don't know if I would have the balls to let him do some of the things he does - however he truly possesses some amazing talents. Whether its lighting himself on fire as a salute to his mother's 60th birthday, lifting a taxi off the ground or being buried alive and having to dig his way out of the grave, he never seems to disappoint. Truly captivating television. Hopefully, he will make a return visit to New York soon, I missed his last show here and would love to experience one of his performances in the flesh. Until then, I'll stay captivated to my television set for disk two and see what he comes up with next.
So Sharon Stone is celebrating a birthday today and this summer will be revisiting the character that made her a star - Catherine Trumell from Basic Instinct. While I love, love, love Ms. Stone and the bisexual underwearless murderess she brought to life in living color, I'm not sure how I feel about a sequel. While it will be interesting to see where they take the character, I have a strong feeling the results are going to be disastrous. Hopefully, she will prove me wrong. Either way, happy birthday Sharon and it will be great having you on the big screen in something more interesting than Catwoman.
Much thanks to Andy Towle for his screen captures of Jake Gyllenhaal working out on the set of Jarhead. With special features like this, I might have to pick up a copy of the DVD. With not too much to talk about today and piles of work to finish, it's always good to take a moment and look at the beauty that is Mr. Gyllenhaal. Truly the makings of a great movie star with some very interesting choices under his belt. I'm looking forward to see Jake's next picture, Zodiac with one of my all time favorite directors David Fincher. Until then, its repeats of Donnie Darko and Bubble Boy - and of course, Jarhead. Semper fi.
She's back and not a moment too soon. Proving that you too can have a career for being rich and in the gossip rags constantly, my favorite tanorexic heiress is back in the news. Seems Ms. Hilton was recently slapped with a three year restraining order for threatening event producer Brian Quintana after their relationship fizzled. However, since they tend to travel in the same social circles and attend some of the same parties, the distance she needs to stay away changes from the standard 100 feet to 25 feet at such events. I love that Mr. Quintana, who was instrumental in introducing her to her current beau, fears for his safety, but still wants to make sure he can party along side her. Classic.
So a quick congratulations to Dan Renzi on his new position as editor at Queerty. If you have time, please check out his personal blog (a favorite of mine, have to read it at least once a day, for his views on culture, TV, personal observations, etc.)
So last night's Oscars was a bit of a disappointment -- ok, it was more then just a bit, everything about the night was just a bit too safe. First off, what happened to at least one of two fashion disasters. Everyone was so groomed and primped for the big night, no one took any risks and lacked a sense of daringness like the old days with Cher or Bjork walked the red carpet.
Secondly, although Ang won for best director, Brokeback Mountain did not win for best picture losing to Magnolia, oh I mean Crash. Just trade in some LA snowflakes for frogs... think about it. Magnolia was a better film, too.
Thirdly, if you're going to do a movie montage about how movies tackle important social issues of the day like AIDS and racism, why not include this year's nominees in that category. Hello, Brokeback, Crash, TransAmerica all played to big audiences this year.
Overall, I just wanted one surprise. One shining moment where I could gasp with shock and awe; like giving the award to a desperate housewife or a pimp. You couldn't give me just one, just one Oscar.
Sorry for the absence dear readers, I've been stuck in bed for the past six days with a nasty flu. I promise to get back into the swing of things next week. I'm always amazed at how quickly a little flu bug can destroy a whole week's worth of mental and physical capacity. Sorry for the delay and I'll be excepting get well cards and chocolate all next week. Love you!
