NEW YORK (Reuters) – U.S. rapper Lil Wayne, fresh from winning best rap album at the 2009 Grammy Awards, will face criminal gun possession charges at a trial scheduled to begin April 20, a New York judge said on Tuesday.
Lil Wayne, whose real name is Dwayne Carter, faces one count of criminal weapons possession and one charge of criminal possession of a loaded weapon. Prosecutors allege a gun was found in his tour bus in July 2007.
Rapper Ja Rule was arrested separately on similar charges following a hip hop concert in New York where both men performed. Ja Rule, whose real name is Jeffrey Atkins, pleaded innocent and a trial date has not yet been set.
Carter appeared in court wearing a black leather jacket, jeans, and black-rimmed glasses, blowing a kiss to fans who greeted him outside the courtroom.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
Ledger wins posthumous Oscar for supporting actor
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Heath Ledger won the best supporting actor Oscar Sunday for his performance as The Joker in Batman movie "The Dark Knight," with the award hailed a fitting tribute for the Australian actor who died a year ago.
Ledger, 28, who was found dead in his New York apartment 13 months ago after an accidental prescription drug overdose, was the hot favorite to win the award which made him only the second actor to receive a posthumous Oscar.
Peter Finch was awarded an Oscar for best actor two months after dying from a heart attack for his role as a TV anchorman in the 1976 film "Network."
"This award tonight...validated Heath's quiet determination to be truly accepted by you all here, his peers, in an industry that he so loved," said Ledger's father, Kim, as the actor's family accepted the Oscar on his behalf.
Ledger, 28, who was found dead in his New York apartment 13 months ago after an accidental prescription drug overdose, was the hot favorite to win the award which made him only the second actor to receive a posthumous Oscar.
Peter Finch was awarded an Oscar for best actor two months after dying from a heart attack for his role as a TV anchorman in the 1976 film "Network."
"This award tonight...validated Heath's quiet determination to be truly accepted by you all here, his peers, in an industry that he so loved," said Ledger's father, Kim, as the actor's family accepted the Oscar on his behalf.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Hilton, Myers top Razzies bill for year's worst
LOS ANGELES – Mike Myers' "The Love Guru" has found some disciples among Razzies voters who pick Hollywood's lowest achievements.
And Paris Hilton is getting her own Razzies moment with three awards all on her own at a ceremony that spoofs the Academy Awards on the eve of the Oscars.
"The Love Guru" won three Razzies on Saturday for worst picture, actor (Myers in the title role) and screenplay, which Myers co-wrote. Hilton's three prizes are worst actress for "The Hottie and the Nottie," supporting actress for "Repo! The Genetic Opera" and screen couple alongside either of her "Hottie" co-stars, Christine Lakin or Joel David Moore.
With three Razzies, Hilton tied the record set last year by Eddie Murphy, who won worst actor, supporting actor and supporting actress for his multiple roles in "Norbit."
Pierce Brosnan was chosen as worst supporting actor for "Mamma Mia!" The worst-director Razzie went to Uwe Boll for three movies: "In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale," "1968: Tunnel Rats" and "Postal."
And Paris Hilton is getting her own Razzies moment with three awards all on her own at a ceremony that spoofs the Academy Awards on the eve of the Oscars.
"The Love Guru" won three Razzies on Saturday for worst picture, actor (Myers in the title role) and screenplay, which Myers co-wrote. Hilton's three prizes are worst actress for "The Hottie and the Nottie," supporting actress for "Repo! The Genetic Opera" and screen couple alongside either of her "Hottie" co-stars, Christine Lakin or Joel David Moore.
With three Razzies, Hilton tied the record set last year by Eddie Murphy, who won worst actor, supporting actor and supporting actress for his multiple roles in "Norbit."
Pierce Brosnan was chosen as worst supporting actor for "Mamma Mia!" The worst-director Razzie went to Uwe Boll for three movies: "In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale," "1968: Tunnel Rats" and "Postal."
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Economic downturn claims Chicago indie label
NEW YORK (Billboard) – Chicago indie label Touch and Go's decision to close its distribution business and stop signing new acts shocked the independent music community and has raised concerns about how small labels will fare in the tough economy.
Indie labels often operate with less debt and lower overhead than the majors, but their business is often very cyclical, leaving them vulnerable when they hit a trough. For example, Seattle indie Sub Pop has been declared dead by the press four times in its 20-year history, but is coming off a strong year with the success of Fleet Foxes and Flight of the Conchords.
In a statement, Touch and Go cited "the current state of the economy" as the reason for its retrenchment. None of the label's recent releases have sold well. Calexico's album "Carried to Dust" has sold 26,000 copies since its September release, sharply off the pace of the band's 2006 album, "Garden Ruin," which has sold 46,000 units, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The self-titled debut album by indie-pop band Uglysuit has sold less than 2,000 copies since its release in August, according to SoundScan.
Indie labels often operate with less debt and lower overhead than the majors, but their business is often very cyclical, leaving them vulnerable when they hit a trough. For example, Seattle indie Sub Pop has been declared dead by the press four times in its 20-year history, but is coming off a strong year with the success of Fleet Foxes and Flight of the Conchords.
In a statement, Touch and Go cited "the current state of the economy" as the reason for its retrenchment. None of the label's recent releases have sold well. Calexico's album "Carried to Dust" has sold 26,000 copies since its September release, sharply off the pace of the band's 2006 album, "Garden Ruin," which has sold 46,000 units, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The self-titled debut album by indie-pop band Uglysuit has sold less than 2,000 copies since its release in August, according to SoundScan.
Friday, February 20, 2009
'Wrestler' 'roid-dealer actor in steroids bust
NEW YORK – The actor who played a steroid dealer in the Oscar-nominated film "The Wrestler" was charged Thursday with being the real thing: Authorities arrested him in a large steroid bust that culminated in a violent chase.
Federal prosecutors in Manhattan also accused Scott Siegel of leading Drug Enforcement Administration agents and local police on a car chase worthy of an action flick.
Siegel, 34, was ordered held without bail on federal drug dealing and assault charges at a court appearance Thursday in White Plains, N.Y. The arrest and chase played out three days before the Oscars, where "The Wrestler" could garner an Academy Award for the lead actor, Mickey Rourke.
Prosecutors said investigators had seized 1,500 bottles labeled as anabolic steroids and tens of thousands of dollars in cash during searches of Siegal's home and that of his parents.
"We're going to evaluate the charges," his attorney, Peter Tilem, said.
Federal prosecutors in Manhattan also accused Scott Siegel of leading Drug Enforcement Administration agents and local police on a car chase worthy of an action flick.
Siegel, 34, was ordered held without bail on federal drug dealing and assault charges at a court appearance Thursday in White Plains, N.Y. The arrest and chase played out three days before the Oscars, where "The Wrestler" could garner an Academy Award for the lead actor, Mickey Rourke.
Prosecutors said investigators had seized 1,500 bottles labeled as anabolic steroids and tens of thousands of dollars in cash during searches of Siegal's home and that of his parents.
"We're going to evaluate the charges," his attorney, Peter Tilem, said.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
When it comes to Oscars, advertisers skip spotlight
NEW YORK (Reuters) – The Oscars have lost some of their luster this year -- at least when it comes to advertising.
ABC has dropped prices for 30-second advertisements and scrambled to replace two of the key sponsors for its Sunday broadcast of the Academy Awards, when Hollywood pays tribute to the best actors, directors, producers and movies of the year.
While always one of the biggest TV events, drawing over 30 million U.S. viewers, the Oscars broadcast this year is feeling the sting of the sharp pullback in ad spending by auto and retail companies.
Prices for advertising spots averaged $1.7 million last year, but this year, prices have come down to anywhere from $1.4 million to $1.7 million, according to media sources.
In addition, General Motors and L'Oreal, two of the biggest advertisers in the past, have decided against running spots. GM alone had spent $105 million over the past decade on Oscar ads, according to TNS Media Intelligence.
ABC has dropped prices for 30-second advertisements and scrambled to replace two of the key sponsors for its Sunday broadcast of the Academy Awards, when Hollywood pays tribute to the best actors, directors, producers and movies of the year.
While always one of the biggest TV events, drawing over 30 million U.S. viewers, the Oscars broadcast this year is feeling the sting of the sharp pullback in ad spending by auto and retail companies.
Prices for advertising spots averaged $1.7 million last year, but this year, prices have come down to anywhere from $1.4 million to $1.7 million, according to media sources.
In addition, General Motors and L'Oreal, two of the biggest advertisers in the past, have decided against running spots. GM alone had spent $105 million over the past decade on Oscar ads, according to TNS Media Intelligence.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
`Slumdog Millionaire' kid stars face uphill battle
MUMBAI, India – They are not your typical movie stars.
Ten-year-old Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail lives in a lean-to made of tarpaulins and blankets. Nine-year-old Rubina Ali's home is a tiny bubble-gum pink shack. A murky open sewer runs down her narrow lane.
Plucked from one of Mumbai's teeming slums to star in the Oscar-nominated hit "Slumdog Millionaire," they are India's real slumdog millionaires.
Like the film's hero, an impoverished tea seller who wins money and love on India's version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," they now have a chance to escape the grinding poverty they were born into. But as their still-unfolding story shows, things never go as smoothly in real life.
The filmmakers are helping the children, but fast discovering that good intentions and deep pockets don't guarantee success. Meanwhile, sudden fame and relative fortune are sowing resentment within the families and with neighbors, who wonder why their big-eyed boys weren't cast instead.
Ten-year-old Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail lives in a lean-to made of tarpaulins and blankets. Nine-year-old Rubina Ali's home is a tiny bubble-gum pink shack. A murky open sewer runs down her narrow lane.
Plucked from one of Mumbai's teeming slums to star in the Oscar-nominated hit "Slumdog Millionaire," they are India's real slumdog millionaires.
Like the film's hero, an impoverished tea seller who wins money and love on India's version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," they now have a chance to escape the grinding poverty they were born into. But as their still-unfolding story shows, things never go as smoothly in real life.
The filmmakers are helping the children, but fast discovering that good intentions and deep pockets don't guarantee success. Meanwhile, sudden fame and relative fortune are sowing resentment within the families and with neighbors, who wonder why their big-eyed boys weren't cast instead.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Filmmakers turn to fans to get projects off the ground in tough economy
TORONTO - Movie maverick Bruce McDonald had an idea for a film that he knew would be hard to sell to potential investors.
Using tens of thousands of black-and-white still photographs, he wanted to knit together a unique tribute to his downtown Toronto neighbourhood with a pseudo-stop-motion technique that would incorporate animation, live action and jazz music.
But getting traditional broadcasters to buy into his experimental idea would not be an easy task, especially with the Canadian economy sinking deep into a recession, he says.
So McDonald has turned to his fans to help fund the project, called "A Love Supreme," offering up a chance to get their name in the credits for $250 or be labelled a full-blown movie producer for $1,000. So far, he's raised $20,000.
Using tens of thousands of black-and-white still photographs, he wanted to knit together a unique tribute to his downtown Toronto neighbourhood with a pseudo-stop-motion technique that would incorporate animation, live action and jazz music.
But getting traditional broadcasters to buy into his experimental idea would not be an easy task, especially with the Canadian economy sinking deep into a recession, he says.
So McDonald has turned to his fans to help fund the project, called "A Love Supreme," offering up a chance to get their name in the credits for $250 or be labelled a full-blown movie producer for $1,000. So far, he's raised $20,000.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Free food and drink raise questions about lobbyists and MPs
OTTAWA - A free "beef and beer" night at a popular hangout near Parliament Hill has drawn attention to a smorgasbord of receptions, drinks and hors d'oeuvres lobbyists serve up to MPs.
The cozy rounds of free alcohol and food have reached a scale where even some MPs say it's time to establish a public registry for the events.
One lobbyist says associations representing a range of interests host three or four receptions in and around Parliament Hill every day the House of Commons is sitting.
An MP says lobbyists use the tactic to organize political support for favoured policies, acquisitions or decisions cabinet ministers are contemplating - without having to register the discussions under the Lobbying Act.
"In the spirit of transparency for lobbying, it would make sense that all activities would be reported," says New Democrat MP Paul Dewar.
The cozy rounds of free alcohol and food have reached a scale where even some MPs say it's time to establish a public registry for the events.
One lobbyist says associations representing a range of interests host three or four receptions in and around Parliament Hill every day the House of Commons is sitting.
An MP says lobbyists use the tactic to organize political support for favoured policies, acquisitions or decisions cabinet ministers are contemplating - without having to register the discussions under the Lobbying Act.
"In the spirit of transparency for lobbying, it would make sense that all activities would be reported," says New Democrat MP Paul Dewar.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Duds outweigh discoveries at Berlin film festival
BERLIN (Reuters) – Duds stuck in the memory more than discoveries at the Berlin film festival, where critics were underwhelmed by the quality of the main competition line up.
As the 11-day annual showcase of international cinema draws to a close with the awards ceremony on Saturday, there are four or five out of 19 entries seen as contenders for best picture.
They are led by "London River," French-Algerian director Rachid Bouchareb's tale of an odd couple united in their search for two children missing after the 2005 suicide bomb attacks in London which killed 52 people.
Britain's Brenda Blethyn and Sotigui Kouyate of Mali gave compelling performances, and the picture's subject matter could boost its chances in the eyes of the jury.
Not everyone liked it, however, and there was no clear favorite for the coveted Golden Bear award in 2009.
As the 11-day annual showcase of international cinema draws to a close with the awards ceremony on Saturday, there are four or five out of 19 entries seen as contenders for best picture.
They are led by "London River," French-Algerian director Rachid Bouchareb's tale of an odd couple united in their search for two children missing after the 2005 suicide bomb attacks in London which killed 52 people.
Britain's Brenda Blethyn and Sotigui Kouyate of Mali gave compelling performances, and the picture's subject matter could boost its chances in the eyes of the jury.
Not everyone liked it, however, and there was no clear favorite for the coveted Golden Bear award in 2009.
Friday, February 13, 2009
"Dreamgirl" Hudson dominates NAACP Image awards
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Actress and singer Jennifer Hudson dominated the NAACP Image awards on Thursday, giving her a boost for 2009 after her mother, brother and nephew were killed by an estranged brother-in-law four months ago.
However two nominees, R&B singer Chris Brown and girlfriend Rihanna, stayed away from the star-studded ceremony following Brown's arrest earlier this week on charges of making criminal threats on an unidentified woman, widely reported to be his girlfriend Rihanna.
Neither Brown nor Rihanna have been seen publicly since this past Sunday when Brown, 19, one of the fastest-rising singing stars of the last two years, was arrested just ahead of the music industry's Grammy Awards.
Jamie Foxx beat Brown to win the trophy for outstanding male artist in an award that was announced before the live television ceremony began.
However two nominees, R&B singer Chris Brown and girlfriend Rihanna, stayed away from the star-studded ceremony following Brown's arrest earlier this week on charges of making criminal threats on an unidentified woman, widely reported to be his girlfriend Rihanna.
Neither Brown nor Rihanna have been seen publicly since this past Sunday when Brown, 19, one of the fastest-rising singing stars of the last two years, was arrested just ahead of the music industry's Grammy Awards.
Jamie Foxx beat Brown to win the trophy for outstanding male artist in an award that was announced before the live television ceremony began.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
"Guitar Hero" fails to save Activision
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) – The economy is so bad that even the company behind "Guitar Hero," the hottest video game franchise in the world, couldn't muster a profit in the holiday quarter.
Activision Blizzard on Wednesday posted a $72 million net loss in the fourth quarter, compared with an $86 million profit last year. It was the first full quarter for the company since its merger with Vivendi's game unit, so the comparison isn't perfect.
Excluding deferred revenue and some charges, the company would have earned $429 million on net revenue of $1.64 billion. Those numbers beat Wall Street forecasts, but Activision Blizzard offered gloomy 2009 guidance, causing the stock to fall 4% in after-hours trading after rising 1% to $9.48 in the regular session.
Activision Blizzard predicted revenue this year of $4.7 billion, about $500 million shy of what analysts were estimating.
Activision Blizzard on Wednesday posted a $72 million net loss in the fourth quarter, compared with an $86 million profit last year. It was the first full quarter for the company since its merger with Vivendi's game unit, so the comparison isn't perfect.
Excluding deferred revenue and some charges, the company would have earned $429 million on net revenue of $1.64 billion. Those numbers beat Wall Street forecasts, but Activision Blizzard offered gloomy 2009 guidance, causing the stock to fall 4% in after-hours trading after rising 1% to $9.48 in the regular session.
Activision Blizzard predicted revenue this year of $4.7 billion, about $500 million shy of what analysts were estimating.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
DA asks police for more investigation of Brown
LOS ANGELES – Prosecutors said Tuesday they want more evidence from police before determining whether to press charges against Chris Brown, who's accused in a domestic dispute that reportedly involves pop superstar Rihanna.
Police presented a case regarding Brown on Tuesday, but did not release any of its details, Los Angeles County District Attorney spokeswoman Jane Robison said. She said the office would have no further comment on the case.
Brown was arrested Sunday night after surrendering to police, who sought the 19-year-old singer when a woman identified him as her attacker during a fight the night before. Numerous media outlets, citing sources and police officials who were not named, have identified the woman as 20-year-old Rihanna, Brown's longtime girlfriend.
Police presented a case regarding Brown on Tuesday, but did not release any of its details, Los Angeles County District Attorney spokeswoman Jane Robison said. She said the office would have no further comment on the case.
Brown was arrested Sunday night after surrendering to police, who sought the 19-year-old singer when a woman identified him as her attacker during a fight the night before. Numerous media outlets, citing sources and police officials who were not named, have identified the woman as 20-year-old Rihanna, Brown's longtime girlfriend.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Metallica seeks Monsters of Rock magic in Europe
BERLIN (Reuters) – Metallica frontman James Hetfield is out to recreate some of the magic of the 1988 U.S. Monsters of Rock tour in Europe this year, with a seven-date sweep of the region ending at Knebworth in England.
Metallica were well down the billing 21 years ago, when the heavy metal giants joined Van Halen and Scorpions on the road for more than 30 shows that lasted up to 10 hours and tested the eardrums, if not the patience, of the crowds.
Now one of the world's most successful bands, with album sales of around 100 million, Metallica is spearheading a European version called Sonisphere and has lined up rock acts including Linkin Park and Slipknot to appear on stage.
More acts will be added and the concept could go global in 2010, although organizers said there were no firm plans as yet.
Metallica were well down the billing 21 years ago, when the heavy metal giants joined Van Halen and Scorpions on the road for more than 30 shows that lasted up to 10 hours and tested the eardrums, if not the patience, of the crowds.
Now one of the world's most successful bands, with album sales of around 100 million, Metallica is spearheading a European version called Sonisphere and has lined up rock acts including Linkin Park and Slipknot to appear on stage.
More acts will be added and the concept could go global in 2010, although organizers said there were no firm plans as yet.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Actors group reconfirms stance on labor talks
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – The board of the largest U.S. actors union on Sunday reconfirmed the recent ouster of their chief negotiator in long-stalled labor contract talks with Hollywood's major studios, said a source with knowledge of the decision.
The national governing board of the Screen Actors Guild, which represents some 120,000 actors, "readopted and affirmed" its vote late last month to fire former labor negotiator Doug Allen and give his duties to two people, this source said, but did not set a date to restart contract talks with the studios.
Citing unnamed sources, showbusiness newspapers The Hollywood Reporter and Daily Variety said talks could restart as soon as February 17. An SAG spokeswoman declined to comment.
After months of stalled talks between SAG and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents Hollywood's major film and TV studios, SAG's national governing board fired Allen and appointed attorney David White as interim executive director and John McGuire as chief negotiator.
The national governing board of the Screen Actors Guild, which represents some 120,000 actors, "readopted and affirmed" its vote late last month to fire former labor negotiator Doug Allen and give his duties to two people, this source said, but did not set a date to restart contract talks with the studios.
Citing unnamed sources, showbusiness newspapers The Hollywood Reporter and Daily Variety said talks could restart as soon as February 17. An SAG spokeswoman declined to comment.
After months of stalled talks between SAG and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents Hollywood's major film and TV studios, SAG's national governing board fired Allen and appointed attorney David White as interim executive director and John McGuire as chief negotiator.
"Slumdog", "Milk" win Writers Guild honors
LOS ANGELES/NEW YORK (Hollywood Reporter) – The India-set romantic drama "Slumdog Millionaire" put another notch in the kudos-season win column Saturday, copping a Writers Guild of America Award for best adapted screenplay for Simon Beaufoy.
Harvey Milk biopic "Milk," penned by Dustin Lance Black, was named best original screenplay.
"This wasn't the easiest movie to produce, you know -- it's pretty gay!" said a grinning Black, who also was honored with the guild's Paul Selvin Award for championing constitutional rights and civil liberties.
Black added that he prayed a lot during the writing of the "Milk" screenplay.
"Mostly, I'll admit, I prayed for a green light," he said. "So I have to thank God, and I want to thank God for making my dreams come true."
In addition to "Milk," nominees in the original screenplay category were "Burn After Reading, "Vicky Cristina Barcelona," "The Visitor" and "The Wrestler."
Harvey Milk biopic "Milk," penned by Dustin Lance Black, was named best original screenplay.
"This wasn't the easiest movie to produce, you know -- it's pretty gay!" said a grinning Black, who also was honored with the guild's Paul Selvin Award for championing constitutional rights and civil liberties.
Black added that he prayed a lot during the writing of the "Milk" screenplay.
"Mostly, I'll admit, I prayed for a green light," he said. "So I have to thank God, and I want to thank God for making my dreams come true."
In addition to "Milk," nominees in the original screenplay category were "Burn After Reading, "Vicky Cristina Barcelona," "The Visitor" and "The Wrestler."
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Country musician Green starts fresh on new album
NASHVILLE (Billboard) – Country music artist Pat Green's latest album is titled "What I'm For," but it could just have easily been called "Pat Green: 3.0" because it features both an attitude update and a new producer.
After working with producers Lloyd Maines (Dixie Chicks) and Don Gehman (John Mellencamp) on earlier albums, Green decided it was time for a change. "I want to feel that uneasy edge in the studio so that I'm conscious all the time," he says.
In musician/producer Dann Huff, who has worked with acts including metal band Megadeth, Green says he found someone who, like Gehman, could produce a "big guitar record."
"I knew I might get some flak from my diehard Texas guys for using somebody that is so much part of the system, but I didn't really care," Green says. "If I have an opportunity to work with a guy like Dann, I'm going to take it.
"It's the difference between just a regular movie and a big Hollywood blockbuster with all the bells and whistles," he adds.
After working with producers Lloyd Maines (Dixie Chicks) and Don Gehman (John Mellencamp) on earlier albums, Green decided it was time for a change. "I want to feel that uneasy edge in the studio so that I'm conscious all the time," he says.
In musician/producer Dann Huff, who has worked with acts including metal band Megadeth, Green says he found someone who, like Gehman, could produce a "big guitar record."
"I knew I might get some flak from my diehard Texas guys for using somebody that is so much part of the system, but I didn't really care," Green says. "If I have an opportunity to work with a guy like Dann, I'm going to take it.
"It's the difference between just a regular movie and a big Hollywood blockbuster with all the bells and whistles," he adds.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Jolie urges Thailand to welcome Muslim refugees
GENEVA (Reuters) – Angelina Jolie, a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations refugee agency, urged Thailand on Thursday to welcome Muslim refugees fleeing Myanmar.
Thailand's treatment of the Rohingyas, an oppressed Muslim minority from mainly Buddhist Myanmar, has been widely condemned as evidence emerges that hundreds were rounded up by the Thai military and towed out to sea.
Jolie issued the plea during a visit to camps in northern Thailand which house 111,000 mostly Christian ethnic Karen refugees from Myanmar.
"Visiting Ban Mai Nai Soi and seeing how hospitable Thailand has been to 111,000 mostly Karen and Karenni refugees over the years, makes me hope that Thailand will be just as generous to the Rohingya refugees who are now arriving on their shores," the Oscar-winning actress said in a statement issued by the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Thailand's treatment of the Rohingyas, an oppressed Muslim minority from mainly Buddhist Myanmar, has been widely condemned as evidence emerges that hundreds were rounded up by the Thai military and towed out to sea.
Jolie issued the plea during a visit to camps in northern Thailand which house 111,000 mostly Christian ethnic Karen refugees from Myanmar.
"Visiting Ban Mai Nai Soi and seeing how hospitable Thailand has been to 111,000 mostly Karen and Karenni refugees over the years, makes me hope that Thailand will be just as generous to the Rohingya refugees who are now arriving on their shores," the Oscar-winning actress said in a statement issued by the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Britney Spears sued by former "manager"
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – The former self-styled manager of Britney Spears sued the pop star and her parents on Tuesday, accusing them of slander and failing to pay his fees.
Sam Lutfi, Spears' constant companion in late 2007 at the height of her personal and professional meltdown, filed the lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court after a renewed flurry of legal moves against him.
His lawsuit names Britney Spears, her father and mother Jamie and Lynne Spears, and alleges libel, defamation, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress and breach of contract.
Lufti claimed Jamie Spears punched him in the chest in January 2008 and says Lynne Spears damaged his reputation in her 2008 memoir "Through The Storm," in which she claimed Lutfi had over-medicated her daughter.
Sam Lutfi, Spears' constant companion in late 2007 at the height of her personal and professional meltdown, filed the lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court after a renewed flurry of legal moves against him.
His lawsuit names Britney Spears, her father and mother Jamie and Lynne Spears, and alleges libel, defamation, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress and breach of contract.
Lufti claimed Jamie Spears punched him in the chest in January 2008 and says Lynne Spears damaged his reputation in her 2008 memoir "Through The Storm," in which she claimed Lutfi had over-medicated her daughter.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Cuban who banned Beatles has died
HAVANA (Reuters) – The man who banned the Beatles from the communist-run island's radio and television stations has died, state television said on Tuesday.
Jorge "Papito" Serguera, who at the time was president of the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television, pulled Beatles music from the airwaves in the 1970s even though he later admitted he enjoyed listening to it in private.
Serguera, who was 76 when he died, said in a 2001 interview he was following orders from high government officials who viewed the British band's music as a threat to the revolution.
But he was viewed as an architect of a general cultural crackdown that dampened dissent and marginalized many for their beliefs or sexuality.
"There were national leaders who were against, not them (the Beatles), but the so-called modern music ... there was incredible pressure," he told Ernesto Juan Castellanos, author of "John Lennon in Havana with a little help from my friend."
Jorge "Papito" Serguera, who at the time was president of the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television, pulled Beatles music from the airwaves in the 1970s even though he later admitted he enjoyed listening to it in private.
Serguera, who was 76 when he died, said in a 2001 interview he was following orders from high government officials who viewed the British band's music as a threat to the revolution.
But he was viewed as an architect of a general cultural crackdown that dampened dissent and marginalized many for their beliefs or sexuality.
"There were national leaders who were against, not them (the Beatles), but the so-called modern music ... there was incredible pressure," he told Ernesto Juan Castellanos, author of "John Lennon in Havana with a little help from my friend."
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Legal move halts talks for new actors' contract
NEW YORK/LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) – Like a horror movie with one false ending after another, the Screen Actors Guild story continues to twist and turn but refuses to bend toward resolution.
National president Alan Rosenberg and first vice president Anne-Marie Johnson notified the guild Monday that they are seeking legal action, industry sources said, effectively halting the resumption of talks for a new TV/film contract between the performers union and Hollywood producers that were to have begun Tuesday morning.
SAG said Monday in announcing the indefinite postponement of negotiations, "Screen Actors Guild today notified the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers that the guild had received a notice of intent to file a complaint (Tuesday)."
Rosenberg and Johnson's move further escalates a brutal internecine battle within the union, one that has seen a 28-hour, all-night national board meeting; the removal of the guild's national executive director and chief negotiator, Doug Allen; and the disbanding of its negotiating committee by written decree.
National president Alan Rosenberg and first vice president Anne-Marie Johnson notified the guild Monday that they are seeking legal action, industry sources said, effectively halting the resumption of talks for a new TV/film contract between the performers union and Hollywood producers that were to have begun Tuesday morning.
SAG said Monday in announcing the indefinite postponement of negotiations, "Screen Actors Guild today notified the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers that the guild had received a notice of intent to file a complaint (Tuesday)."
Rosenberg and Johnson's move further escalates a brutal internecine battle within the union, one that has seen a 28-hour, all-night national board meeting; the removal of the guild's national executive director and chief negotiator, Doug Allen; and the disbanding of its negotiating committee by written decree.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Springsteen delivers promised party at Super Bowl
TAMPA, Fla. – Bruce Springsteen looked into the camera Sunday night and told the people watching at home to "put the chicken fingers down and turn the television all the way up!"
Then he proceeded to give the Super Bowl crowd and the millions watching on TV three high-energy Boss standards, with the title song from his new album wedged in among them for good measure.
The 59-year-old Springsteen and his E Street Band opened with "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out," then without pause ripped through "Born To Run" and "Working on a Dream," before winding up the set with "Glory Days."
Springsteen, dressed all in black, came out Sunday night with the considerable challenge of packing the bombastic energy of one of his rollicking, three-hour concerts into an abbreviated Super Bowl halftime set.
That turned out to be no problem. He had fireworks, an expansive stage, about 1,000 people on the field and help from a Raymond James Stadium crowd equipped with small flashlights.
Then he proceeded to give the Super Bowl crowd and the millions watching on TV three high-energy Boss standards, with the title song from his new album wedged in among them for good measure.
The 59-year-old Springsteen and his E Street Band opened with "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out," then without pause ripped through "Born To Run" and "Working on a Dream," before winding up the set with "Glory Days."
Springsteen, dressed all in black, came out Sunday night with the considerable challenge of packing the bombastic energy of one of his rollicking, three-hour concerts into an abbreviated Super Bowl halftime set.
That turned out to be no problem. He had fireworks, an expansive stage, about 1,000 people on the field and help from a Raymond James Stadium crowd equipped with small flashlights.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Boyle, Nolan, Fincher vie for DGA's top honors
LOS ANGELES – The filmmakers behind a superhero saga, a street-orphan tale, two dramas about fallen politicians and the life story of a man aging backward are in the running for top honors from the Directors Guild of America.
Nominated for the guild's feature-film award are Danny Boyle for the rags-to-riches story "Slumdog Millionaire"; David Fincher for the whimsical romance "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"; Ron Howard for the Richard Nixon drama "Frost/Nixon"; Christopher Nolan for the Batman blockbuster "The Dark Knight"; and Gus Van Sant for the Harvey Milk biopic "Milk."
Among Hollywood's many honors on the buildup to the Academy Awards, the Directors Guild prizes have one of the best track records for predicting eventual Oscar winners. Only six times in the guild awards' 60-year history has the winner failed to take home the directing Oscar.
Nolan is the odd man out at the guild awards, the only contender who did not also receive an Oscar nomination. Boyle, Fincher, Howard and Van Sant all are nominated for the best-director Oscar, along with Stephen Daldry for the Holocaust-themed drama "The Reader."
Nominated for the guild's feature-film award are Danny Boyle for the rags-to-riches story "Slumdog Millionaire"; David Fincher for the whimsical romance "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"; Ron Howard for the Richard Nixon drama "Frost/Nixon"; Christopher Nolan for the Batman blockbuster "The Dark Knight"; and Gus Van Sant for the Harvey Milk biopic "Milk."
Among Hollywood's many honors on the buildup to the Academy Awards, the Directors Guild prizes have one of the best track records for predicting eventual Oscar winners. Only six times in the guild awards' 60-year history has the winner failed to take home the directing Oscar.
Nolan is the odd man out at the guild awards, the only contender who did not also receive an Oscar nomination. Boyle, Fincher, Howard and Van Sant all are nominated for the best-director Oscar, along with Stephen Daldry for the Holocaust-themed drama "The Reader."
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