"Push: Based on the Novel by Sapphire" (not to be confused with that Dakota Fanning vehicle "Push," which had some readers confused), took home big wins at this year's fest, receiving both the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award. Other winners include "We Live in Public," "The Maid," and "Rough Aunties." Check out the full list of winners here.
January 26, 2009
January 23, 2009
<3 Damien Rice <3
The ASCAP Music Cafe saw a truly moving performance from Irish singer/songwriter Damien Rice, who took the time to talk about, um, pleasuring oneself between songs. Catch footage from his most excellent performance here.
A 'Brief' encounter indeed
Much has been said about how John Krasinski's, better known as Jim on "The Office," directorial debut with "Brief Interviews with Hideous Men," based on the novel by David Foster Wallace, is a "feminist movie," so, naturally, having a crush on ol' Jim and also strong opinions about said feminism, this was towards the top of must-see-movies list this year.
But, as luck would have it, nap mode set in once again for half an hour, which unfortunately was, well, half the film. So, all that excitement wound up a bust. And, Krasinski wasn't even present for the Q&A following the screening. Bummer.
January 22, 2009
Eco-Haven: The Green Lodge
After schlepping our camera equipment up and down Main Street all day, The Green Lodge was an eco-oasis for me and my partner Justin Mandel. Once inside, we sampled Yakult--a surprisingly tasty probiotic drink promoting digestive health— as well as raw, vegan dishes, took advantage of the spa services and, of course, walked off with eco-friendly schwag, including energy-efficient home care products and environmentally-friendly home goods.
A place that makes me feel like I’m doing something good for the environment and makes me feel good, period (thanks for the massage)? I’m in.
January 21, 2009
Super-brief reviews of recent viewings
"Push:" Based on the novel by Sapphire, the film follows the life of a young girl, Precious, played by the outstanding Gabourey Sidibe, who is pregnant for the second time by her father. Though a truly heartbreaking premise, the film is surprisingly hilarious at times (best laugh: Precious asks a social-working Mariah Carey what her race is). You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll gain a new appreciation for Mo'Nique, who gives an absolutely superb performance as Precious' mother. A must-see.
"Mystery Team:" The first hour of this press screening was caught thanks to an early bus ride and a confused festival worker. The film is about three friends who dub themselves the Mystery Team and go around solving crimes. There's lots of naked chicks, hands in toilets and a pantsless guy getting milk thrown on him by a stripper. Think a dumbed-down version of "American Pie."
"We Live In Public:" First off, the dude this movie's about, Josh Harris, just walked past my table as I type this and is much much shorter in person. Anyway, not really knowing much about the film going into it, "We Live In Public" proved a fascinating documentary about '90s dot-commer Harris and his forward-thinking social experiments, which involved housing 100 people in a bunker in Manhattan and filming their every move, from showering to sexing to shitting. Made by "Dig!" director Ondi Timoner, this doc has been the most interesting thus far.
"Humpday:" Staying out til 6:30 a.m. the night before meant a good chunk of this movie was spent in nap mode, but what was seen was pretty funny. Two straight best friends decide they want to make a porn together, and, well, you'll have to see for yourself what happens.
Fred Segal Fun...Indeed
Last year, as a Sundance neophyte, I spent my days in the cold, wait-listing movie after movie. I ate, slept and breathed films—OK, maybe just breathed. There wasn’t a whole lot of time for eating or sleeping. This year, however, as a member of the press, I decided to experience the other, more exclusive side of the festival: the world of being “on the list.” On my to-do list was a visit to the Fred Segal Fun Lounge, a by-appointment only suite that’s a must for any celeb...or member of the press with discerning taste such as yours truly. Here’s some of what Fred Segal Fun had to offer:
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After taking one look at Lisa Freede’s gorgeous rings, earrings (including her signature “huggie” style), bracelets and necklaces, it’s no wonder that celebs such as Angelina Jolie and Mariah Carey go gaga over her pieces. Non A-listers, however, need not fret. With prices ranging from $20 to around $200, even the cash-strapped college student can look red-carpet ready. And just when I thought that I couldn’t love Lisa more, she offered to send me the pair of earrings that I was drooling over. Swoon.
Parish:
Specializing in men’s wear (with a women’s line in the works),
Parish’s clothing runs the gamut from classic argyle sweaters to creatively embellished outerwear. Now, guys, whether you’re the type to throw something on and run out the door or the type to put in a little more effort, you’ll still look polished and suave. One of Parish’s founders Chaka Wilson proudly told me about the company’s second anniversary and the company’s plans for the future. All I have to say is, keep doing what you’re doing and you’ll have many more years of success to come!
George, Gina & Lucy:
Already wildly popular in Europe, George, Gina & Lucy is making a name for itself in the United States. With its canvas, nylon, silk and leather goods ranging from wallets to oversized purses, there's something for everyone. Be sure to keep an eye out for George, Gina & Lucy, sure to be gracing the arms of starlets and pages of US Weekly soon.
The Original Retro Brand
Everyone has that one t-shirt that they love so much that they wash and wear until it’s a thin, faded mess that more closely resembles Swiss cheese than an actual article of clothing. Thanks to the Original Retro Brand and their unique dyeing and softening techniques, however, you can have a brand new t-shirt (or hat) that feels vintage and proudly promotes your favorite college, NFL, NHL team (just to name a few). Now you can be nostalgic AND look good. Incidentally, they have a great looking line of USC gear…
Hurley
With its roots in a love for the ocean, Hurley began as a surfboard company in 1979. Since then, however, it has expanded into an immensely popular line of men’s, and women’s clothing and accessories. Although Hurley’s roots may be in the surf culture, the line (thankfully) also includes hip, warm outerwear. Hey, when it’s 25˚ outside, board shorts just aren’t going to cut it!
Undun Denim
Fashionistas take note: Make room amongst your JBrand, Lucky and Hudson Jeans—there’s a new denim in town, and it’s eco-friendly. Undun puts to rest all the concerns about organic fabrics being stiff and uncomfortable. Their jeans, which come in a variety of washes, are not only great looking but also great feeling. What’s more, the company tries to encourage more eco-friendly manufacturing and manufactures their products in areas in need of an economic boost. Going green never looked better!
The Black Boy Collection
The first thing stressed to me about the Black Boy Collection is that the line is not about any one race or gender. Actually, it’s about anyone who has ever been told “No, you can’t” and told themselves, “Yes, I can,” working through obstacles to prove their naysayers wrong. The collection, which includes shirts and sweaters, is inspired by equal rights (note the “1870s and 1920s” shirt) and the likes of Miles Davis, Duke Ellington and Barack Obama. I proudly wore my “The O Wordsearch” shirt today for the inauguration and remain inspired by the philosophy behind this brand.
Special thanks to Jackie Brander and everyone at the Fred Segal Fun Lounge for being so friendly and accommodating!
For a closer look at all the fashions, click on the pictures scattered throughout this post
January 20, 2009
UWIRE at Sundance
- Screenings, stars and snow – all in a day’s work at the Sundance Film Festival. UWIRE will be onsite blogging from Park City, Utah, Jan. 15 – 25, bringing you the latest news, interviews and reviews from this year’s fest.
