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Review: Cinderella and Diana: The Musical
A Double Feature Review! Two Terrible Features.
Amazon's Cinderella (2021) is a terrible re-imaging of the classic fairy tale. I understand adding a modern take to this old story, but the direction, writing, and acting all come off as cringe-worthy. The dialogue is clunky, while the songs are just downright annoying. The soundtrack was like listening to a Kidz Bop mixtape. We got songs like Queens' Somebody to Love or Madonna's Material Girl. They even sang songs like Ed Sheeran's Perfect and Jennifer Lopez's Let's Get Loud. Adding an updated soundtrack to this movie just did not work. Maybe on paper, it sounded good, but the execution was disastrous. Writer-director Kay Cannon (director of 2018's Blockers and writer of the Pitch Perfect trilogy) seemed like a good choice to revamp the Cinderella story. Sadly, her direction throughout this family feature falters. Not even the star power of Camila Cabello, Idina Menzel, Minnie Driver, Billy Porter, and Pierce Brosnan could save this movie. By the end of this jukebox musical, I had a headache. Did I mention that James Corden voices a mouse? Terrifying! To say this in the nicest way possible, Cabello has a great voice, but her acting is just awful. I know that Glynis was also incredibly excited to see a Latina be portrayed as Cinderella, but the film's ending results and execution ultimately let her down. Here's to hoping that Rachel Zegler's portrayal as Snow White in Disney's upcoming live-action remake will be a success. If you want to watch a Cinderella movie, then I recommend watching the 1950's animated classic, the 1997 Rodgers & Hammerstein's one starring Brandy, or the 2015 live-action version starring Lily James. In the end, this is a shallow and catastrophic re-imaging from the Bezos vault that is not worth your time.
Cinderella is rated PG (Parental Guidance) Language | Suggestive Material.
Stream it on Amazon Prime Video ... if you dare.
Directed by Kay Cannon
Starring Camila Cabello, Idina Menzel, Minnie Driver, Billy Porter, Pierce Brosnan, and mousey James Corden.
Diana: The Musical
I always enjoy watching a live recording of a Broadway musical, but Diana: The Musical is not it. Terrible cannot even begin to describe this live production. It's two hours of nonsense crippled with the exploitation of Princess Diana and her image. Diana: The Musical is a production that's incredibly cookie cutter and surface level in its storytelling. Shrill and desperate, this is a musical fueled with cold, hard cynicism. This production of Princess Diana adds nothing to her legacy as a mother, wife, royal, or celebrity. Instead, we get the greatest hits of Diana's life, with no emotional core. Biopic musicals can be hard to accomplish, but as long as there's an emotional core grabbing ahold of your audience in-between the catchy musical numbers — normally — you are pretty good to go. The musical follows Diana Spencer (Jeanna de Waal) from her first meeting with Charles (Roe Hartrampf) through her divorce and tragic death. While the acting is subpar, the musical numbers are even more forgettable. This all fades away to the sparkly production designs that make you wonder: "why am I even watching this?" Netflix is trying to take advantage of its royal content after coming off the heels of its current critically acclaimed television series The Crown (which I like), but don't let them fool you with this dumpster fire. Due to COVID-19, this live performance was recorded last year with no audience. But, I am beginning to wonder if COVID did not even want to attend. Diana: The Musical will open on Broadway starting next month (November), and we'll see how that goes. Maybe I am being a little too harsh on this production, but I really love the theatre. It's where I go to escape. With Diana: The Musical — escape — I did not.
Diana: The Musical is rated PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned) Strong Language | Suggestive/Thematic Material.
Stream it on Netflix ... if you dare.
Directed by Christopher Ashley (Shocking!)
Starring Jeanna de Waal, Erin Davie, Roe Hartrampf, and Judy Kaye.
Review: Bergman Island and Muppets Haunted Mansion
Actor Vicky Krieps
Bergman Island is a fascinating and patient movie. While using the legendary director (Ingmar Bergman) as a backdrop for the film's premise, we see a charming and creative story transform. One that is well-acted (Vicky Krieps and Tim Roth) and gentle, it's also one of the best films of the year. Bergman Island is a movie cinephiles will gobble up — one that shows us the back-end of a creative process and also explores the history of a legendary filmmaker (Bergman). Ingmar Bergman was a famous Swedish director who made some of the best pictures out there, including The Seventh Seal (1957), Persona (1966), Cries and Whispers (1972), Fanny and Alexander (1982), Wild Strawberries (1957), and Scenes from a Marriage (1973). All of which study the human condition, Bergman's most famous trait. Bergman Island is also a movie that one does not need any knowledge of the director beforehand. Writer-director Mia Hansen-Løve's (Things to Come and The Father of my Children) film stands all on its own, only using Bergman as a backdrop in its storytelling.
Hansen-Løve's film follows a filmmaking couple, Chris (a great Vicky Krieps) and Tony (a strong Tim Roth), who retreat to the Fårö island for the summer. This island is also the same island where Bergman lived and shot most of his famous pictures. Hint why the title and island are called Bergman Island. Tony is a director, while Chris is a screenwriter who has been suffering from writer's block. The cinematography and landscapes in this movie are breathtaking, while a gentle story unfolds. There is also a second part to this film, where Chris talks to Tony about a screenplay idea she has. We then see this fictitious screenplay blossom right on the screen as Chris describes it. Actors Mia Wasikowska and Anders Danielsen Lie play Amy and Joseph in Chris' story. It's about an on-and-off-again romance that also takes place on the Island. A tender picture blending both fiction and reality that will warm you up like a hot cup of coffee. Bergman Island is a movie that takes its time and, just like the legendary director himself, it's an engaging feature that will soothe your soul.
Actors Mia Wasikowska and Anders Danielsen
Bergman Island is rated R (Restricted) Nudity | Language | Some Sexual Content.
Directed by Mia Hansen-Løve
Starring Vicky Krieps, Tim Roth, Mia Wasikowska, and Anders Danielsen Lie.
Gonzo and Pepe
The Muppets are back! And just in time for the Halloween season. Muppets Haunted Mansion is a spooky surprise the whole family can enjoy. It's a quick 52-minute feature that will slap a smile on your face. The newest entry to this family-friendly franchise specifically follows The Great Gonzo (voiced by puppeteer Dave Goelz) and Pepe (voiced by puppeteer Bill Barretta), who are on their way to a fear challenge event; instead of attending the Muppets' annual Halloween party. The fear challenge takes place in the same haunted mansion where Gonzo's favorite magician, The Great MacGuffin, disappeared one hundred years ago. If anyone has ridden The Haunted Mansion ride at either Disneyland or Walt Disney World — then — you will notice that the film's storyline follows aspects of that ride while Gonzo and Pepe are inside. As usual Muppets films and shows go, this feature has a ton of celebrity appearances and cameos, like Will Arnett, Yvette Nicole Brown, Darren Criss, Taraji P. Henson, John Stamos, the late Ed Asner, Jeannie Mai, Chrissy Metz, Alfonso Ribeiro, Danny Trejo, and Sasheer Zamata. It's also chopped full of catchy songs (Rest In Peace, Life Hereafter, Tie The Knot Tango, Dancing in the Moonlight, and Grim Grinning Ghosts) and Muppets humor that the whole family will enjoy. So, if you are looking for something that is both spooky and family-friendly, then I advise turning on Disney+ and turning on the newest Muppets feature. You won't be disappointed. I guarantee it.
Kermit and Miss Piggy Dressing Up As Each Other (True Love)
Muppets Haunted Mansion is not rated (NR)
Stream it on Disney+
Directed by Kirk Thatcher
Starring The Whole Muppets Gang and Will Arnett, Yvette Nicole Brown, Darren Criss, Taraji P. Henson, John Stamos, the late Ed Asner, Jeannie Mai, Chrissy Metz, Alfonso Ribeiro, Danny Trejo, Sasheer Zamata.
Review: Halloween Kills and Censor
As someone who loved the 2018 picture, Halloween Kills was definitely a frustrating horror movie. Messy and chaotic in both its writing and directing. Not terrible, but also not great. There is a good story buried somewhere deep inside this film. You'll hear the phrase "evil dies tonight" over a dozen times in Halloween Kills until it drives you freakin' crazy. Coming off the success of 2018's Halloween, writer-director David Gordon Green's (Pineapple Express, Joe, and Stronger) follow-up sequel comes off as a bit of a disappointment. Halloween Kills is an incredibly safe horror picture that dives headfirst into the mythology of Michael Myers, AKA The Shape (James Jude Courtney and Nick Castle). While there are now 12 Halloween movies to this 40-year slasher franchise, 2018's Halloween wiped the slate clean and retconned all previous Halloween sequels. Instead, the 2018 picture is a direct sequel to the original 1978 classic (also named Halloween). This was a bit of a gamble that Green and writer-actor Danny McBride were doing, but it paid off in the end. 2018's Halloween was a brilliant slasher feature.
They went back to the basics of low-key slasher ingredients to build up the tension and terror. This was also something that John Carpenter and Debra Hill's 1978 masterpiece did. The original Halloween had almost no gore and was incredibly effective in its ability to scare you. Jump to Halloween Kills, and Green and McBride decide (for some reason) to throw everything that previously worked out the window. They rack up the body count this time around, while also taking a deep dive into The Shape's possible supernatural abilities. So, we are minutes after the previous entry, where Laurie Strode (a strong Jamie Lee Curtis), her daughter Karen (a wonderful Judy Greer), and granddaughter Allyson (a great Andi Matichak) thought they had left Michael Myers caged and burning inside Laurie's basement. Once again, he escapes and slaughters about a dozen firemen. Laurie is rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries; after being slashed in the stomach from the previous film. Sadly, this keeps Curtis' role pretty limited, while she goes on long random rants and monologues throughout the movie.
As Michael's bloodbath and rampage continue on Halloween night, the town decides to ban together and take down the monster. Green brings back some nostalgic characters from the original film: like Tommy Doyle (now played by Anthony Michael Hall), Lindsey Wallace (Kyle Richards reprised her role), Leigh Brackett (Charles Cyphers reprised his role), and Marion Chambers (Nancy Stephens reprised her role). The sequel focuses heavily on Tommy's perspective and examines the role of mob mentality in the era of Trumpism. I felt like this aspect was a decent idea on script, but it needed to be better developed through the final product. Overall, the mob topic was poorly executed, heavy-handed, and came off a bit flimsy. The movie also heavily relies on recreating flashback scenes and adding new ones from the original 1978 film. While adding some substantial nostalgic nods to the franchise and fan service (Season of the Witch masks), Halloween Kills' story actually goes nowhere.
It's a frustrating horror picture to watch and examine as it wrestles with what it is actually trying to say and accomplish. The overall outcome is a tad half-baked and tedious. This is definitely a middle chapter movie of Green's Halloween reboot trilogy. But, I will give all of the actors a thumbs up, as their acting chops kept me engaged throughout. Also, the incredible score by Carpenter, Cody Carpenter, and Daniel Davies will also seep into your mind. Plus, the practical effects and makeup in the film's flashback sequences deserve high praise all on their own. Halloween Kills is not the worst Halloween movie out there (looking at you Resurrection and Rob Zombie), but it is sadly both chaotic and weak in its storytelling. Halloween Kills is an angry movie that goes full Rambo in both its kills and gore. We will have to see how this new trilogy concludes with Halloween Ends (2022) next October. For now, evil doesn't die, and it slashes at anything and everything in its way. One final note, long live Big John and Little John (Scott MacArthur and Michael McDonald).
Halloween Kills is rated R (Restricted) Language | Grisly Images | Some Drug Use | Strong Bloody Violence.
I ranked all 12 Halloween movies. Click Here!
Stream it on Peacock Premium or watch it in theaters.
Directed by David Gordon Green
Starring Jamie Lee Curtis, Judy Greer, Andi Matichak, Will Patton, Thomas Mann, and Anthony Michael Hall.
Censor is bloody good — a slow-burning character study shown through artistic beauty and thought-provoking themes. One will fall down the rabbit hole to an eerie work of art and British horror. Censor is a balancing act of gory horror, media consumption, and mental health. Welsh filmmaker Prano Bailey-Bond's directorial debut will send chills down your spine and break your psyche. This psychological horror feature is a grand spooky picture to watch this Halloween season. Censor turns the clocks back to the 1980s, where we follow Enid (a fierce Niamh Algar), a film censor who works at the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) during the height of the Video Nasty controversy. Video Nasty was a time in the United Kingdom where low-budget horror and exploitation films found a loophole in their distribution of video cassettes (VHS). These films were able to bypass the BBFC's reviewing process, causing a public uproar due to their extremely violent, graphic, and lude content.
This is where Enid's character comes into play — she watches these films and approves what should be cut or banned for their approval rating. Hint at the film's title Censor. Yet, Enid is also dealing with past trauma of her own. Her sister, Nina, went missing when they were both children. Enid's parents believe that Nina is dead, but Enid is not convinced. Because Enid spends all of her time watching these extremely gory and uncomfortable movies, her mental health begins to spiral. Bailey-Bond then paints a brilliant portrait of Enid's mind as she begins to blend fiction with reality, losing sight of what is real and what is not. After Enid view's an old film from a veteran horror director named Frederick North (Adrian Schiller), she watches a scene that parallels a distant memory of her and her sister.
This discovery convinces Enid that the movie actress, Alice Lee (played by Sophia La Porta), is her real missing sister, Nina. That is as far as I will go into this juicy plot. Bailey-Bond weaves two stories (the missing sister and media consumption) together until they combine into a force to be reckoned with. As Enid's mental health begins to suffer, we see someone who is engulfed with fear and paranoia. While the story comes off as a bit uneven at times, the third act effectively mixes them, unleashing a fever dream of brilliant terror. Through the versatile lighting of neon reds and greens, distorted aspect ratios, and a bloody surprise, we are left with one of the finest horror pictures to come out in 2021. Bold, meticulous, and hazy, Censor will get under your skin. In the end, it's a film permanently ingrained to your mind.
Censor is not rated (NR)
Stream it now on Hulu for their Huluween.
Directed by Prano Bailey-Bond
Starring Niamh Algar, Nicholas Burns, Vincent Franklin, Sophia La Porta, Adrian Schiller, and Michael Smiley.
Review: Come From Away and The Many Saints of Newark
Glynis and I got to see Come From Away live a few years back, and the newest live recording is just as powerful as I remember — fluid staging, incredible acting, inspiring, and heart-tugging. One of the most beautiful musicals you will ever watch. You Are Here. Come From Away is an astounding Canadian musical that finds hope amid tragedy. With a folksy and bluegrass sway, this is a musical that will sweep you off your feet. You may even shed a tear. The music and lyrics were composed by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, while it made its Broadway debut back in 2017. The production went on to be nominated for seven Tonys, winning Best Direction (Christopher Ashley). The stage's setup is minimal, using a variety of lighting and raw human emotion to draw you in. The production's cast is made up of only 12 actors — all of whom perform multiple roles throughout this musical. Come From Away is based on a true story set in the week following the September 11 attacks. As part of Operation Yellow Ribbon, 38 planes were ordered to land unexpectedly in the small town of Gander in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
All of the characters in this musical are based on real Gander residents, along with some 7,000 stranded travelers they housed and fed. Because of Broadway's 2020 shutdown, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a live stage recording was directed and made by Ashley. The film was released on Apple TV+ on September 10th, a day before the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. This live recording allowed Broadway to be brought to the doorsteps and living rooms of everyone at home. The original Broadway cast (Petrina Bromley, Jenn Colella, De'Lon Grant, Joel Hatch, Tony LePage, Caesar Samayoa, Q. Smith, Astrid Van Wieren, Emily Walton, Jim Walton, Sharon Wheatley, and Paul Whitty) also reprised their respected roles, gifting us with a splendid and emotionally resonate musical recording. Come From Away is a powerful musical that transcends through the healing power of human connection. If you were not able to see this musical on the stage, then I highly recommend watching its beauty from the comfort of your home.
Come From Away is rated TV-14 (This program may be unsuitable for children under 14 years of age)
Stream it now on Apple TV+
Directed by Christopher Ashley
Starring Petrina Bromley, Jenn Colella, De'Lon Grant, Joel Hatch, Tony LePage, Caesar Samayoa, Q. Smith, Astrid Van Wieren, Emily Walton, Jim Walton, Sharon Wheatley, and Paul Whitty.
The Many Saints of Newark is a welcomed return of beloved Soprano characters fans grew up watching, yet the film does run into cinematic confinement in its storytelling. The Many Saints of Newark is writer-director-creator David Chase's prequel movie to his critically-acclaimed HBO crime drama series, The Sopranos (1999-2007). As a fan of Chase's TV show, I enjoyed going back in time and watching the younger versions of the Soprano characters. Unfortunately, The Many Saints of Newark finds pitfalls in its inability to fully develop its story through the medium of film. While The Sopranos' success came with its ability to nicely develop these dramatic stories and characters over a period of time (episodes) through the medium of television. Nevertheless, I was still drawn in by the great acting chops of this incredible cast (Alessandro Nivola, Leslie Odom Jr., Jon Bernthal, Corey Stoll, Michael Gandolfini, Billy Magnussen, Michela De Rossi, John Magaro, Ray Liotta, and Vera Farmiga). Newcomers beware: if you have never watched an episode of HBO's The Sopranos, then you will be confused.
The Many Saints of Newark is a movie that establishes that you already know the history of the fictional DiMeo crime family, later turned Soprano crime family. Our story follows Richard "Dickie" Moltisanti (a strong Nivola) and his rise and fall to power during the late 1960s and mid-1970s. We also see younger versions of the original series characters like Junior Soprano (Corey Stoll), Livia Soprano (Vera Farmiga), Paulie Walnuts (Billy Magnussen), Silvio Dante (John Magaro), "Pussy" Bonpensiero (Samson Moeakiola), and Carmela De Angelis (Lauren DiMario). Uncle Dickie was always a ghost character during the original run of The Sopranos. By the time the show had started, his fictional character was already dead, but we never knew who killed him. Saints of Newark answers those burning questions of how Dickie was really killed. Though this revelation could divide hardcore Soprano fans.
Dickie was also the father of Christopher (Michael Imperioli), the nephew and protégé of Tony Soprano (played by the great-late James Gandolfini in the original series and by Michael Gandolfini for this prequel movie). Saints of Newark's story is also sandwiched during the 1967's Newark race riots. One aspect that I admired was Michael Gandolfini's performance as a young Tony Soprano, the role his late father (James Gandolfini) played over a decade ago. Michael was a natural and a spitting image of his father. If anyone could pick up the mantle of Tony Soprano, it was Michael. The Many Saints of Newark never lives up to the great heights of the original series — nevertheless — it's still a worthy origin story and history lesson on the fictional Soprano crime family. One that is also dark, witty, and ultra-violent. Lastly, that ending shot with Michael's character (Tony) sent chills down my spine. Cue "Woke Up This Morning" by Alabama 3.
The Many Saints of Newark is rated R (Restricted) Sexual Content | Pervasive Language | Some Nudity | Strong Violence.
Stream it now on HBO Max until October 31st. Or see it in theaters.
Starring Alessandro Nivola, Leslie Odom Jr., Jon Bernthal, Corey Stoll, Michael Gandolfini, Billy Magnussen, Michela De Rossi, John Magaro, Ray Liotta, and Vera Farmiga.
Halloween Ranking: All 12 Michael Myers Films
Michael Myers has been terrorizing the town of Haddonfield, Illinois, for over 40 years. There have been great, fun, bad, and ugly movies produced from this slasher franchise. With Halloween Kills now out, I ranked all 12 Halloween films. "It 'was' the boogeyman." "As a matter of fact...it was."
Review: Titane
Julia Ducournau's Titane hits you hard. Provocative, thrilling, chaotic, and completely original. I was blown away.
Warning: Minor Plot Spoilers in this Review
How does one explain a movie like Titane? Writer-director Julia Ducournau's (2016's Raw) newest French picture transcends you to another dimension. Titane is a film that one has to see to believe. It's wild, organic, and riveting, from the first to the final frame. Ducournau's transgressive horror will seep into your bones; you won't know what hit you. Our film starts out with 7-year-old Alexia (Adèle Guigue), who gets in a car accident with her father and cracks open her head. Alexia goes into surgery, and the doctors have to surgically implant a large titanium plate into her skull. A metal brace is now placed around Alexia's head like an unholy halo. Ducournau's film sets the tone from there, gifting us with a violent, gender-bending, and orgasmic experience through blood and oil. Jump to adult Alexia (played by an intoxicating Agathe Rousselle), who works as a showgirl at a motor show.
Agathe Rousselle as Alexia
Yet, there's a dark secret that lingers around Alexia. She's also a serial killer. Whether it's a female lover or a male harasser, Alexia will eventually penetrate them in their ear with her razor-sharp hair stick, killing them instantly. Without giving too much away, Titane is a film that's fluid in both its sexuality and gender, turning these subject matters upside down on their heads. You might have already heard, yes, Alexia's character has sex with a vintage Cadillac and gets pregnant. That's as far as I'll go with that topic. You'll have to watch and experience this for yourself. There's also actor Vincent Lindon who plays somewhat of an adoptive father in the film. One who is tormented by his aging body. Furthermore, there's a firefighter's dancing scene that I cannot get out of my head. Full of purple tones and cinematic bliss, it's wondrous. Rousselle's character is mostly nonverbal throughout the picture, but her demons run free.
Vincent Lindon as Vincent
As we see Alexia's pregnancy progress, she also begins to drip motor oil from multiple places on her body. Ducournau's sadistic feature is one that cannot be shaken off long after the credits end. Titane had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival back in July, where Ducournau became only the second female director to win the Palme d'Or (the festival's top award). She also became the first female director to win the top award solo (director Jane Campion won in 1993, jointly). Titane was also selected as the French entry for the Best International Feature Film for next year's 94th Academy Awards. This should be an exciting awards season. Titane comes, starts its engine, and races to the finish line. A provocative odyssey that takes one down roads never seen before. You will gasp, laugh, and be hypnotized by Ducournau's dangerously vivid direction. Titane is a liberating experience. Go watch it NOW.
Julia Ducournau winning the Palme d'Or with Agathe Rousselle & Vincent Lindon
Titane is rated R (Restricted) Language | Graphic Nudity | Disturbing Material | Sexual Content | Strong Violence.
Directed by Julia Ducournau
Starring Agathe Rousselle, Vincent Lindon, Garance Marillier, Lais Salameh, Bertrand Bonello, and Dominique Frot.
007 Ranking: All 25 Bond Films
James Bond is one of the longest-running franchises to date. Nearly 60-years of 007. Our British spy has done everything for Queen and country. Bond will always be my favorite running franchise, from the spectacular action sequences to his martinis (shaken, not stirred). With No Time To Die now out, I ranked all 25 Bond films (Eon Productions).
Review: No Time To Die
No Time To Die: An action-packed, ambitious, and satisfying swan song for Daniel Craig's tenure as 007. Craig is arguably our greatest Bond ever. An epic (overstuffed) spy adventure with heart. Craig's conclusion gives us an emotional goodbye. Mr. Craig, I bid you farewell. Thank you.
Warning: Minor Plot Spoilers in this Review.
After being delayed three times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, No Time To Die coming to theaters has finally become a reality. I never thought I'd see the day. It was worth the 18-month wait, and I was excited that I got to finally sit in the theaters and watch it. At 53, Daniel Craig's 15-year tenure as 007 has come to a close. Mr. Craig parts ways from the tuxedos and martinis with a stylish, bombastic, and emotional farewell. Director Cary Joji Fukunaga (2015's Beasts of No Nation) strongly wraps up Mr. Craig's Bond arc with suave, action, and heart. The Craig-era took the 007 franchise into new directions. Not everything worked for these five films, but they all dared to say something. Craig's incarnation brought Bond into the 21st century, along with a more bruised and broken 007. The series also evolved Bond's past womanizing schemes and showcased what his reckless actions and misogyny could lead to. We saw this in 2006's Casino Royale, where Bond seduces a criminal's wife, Solange (played by Caterina Murino), for information.
Daniel Craig as James Bond, 007
Bond does not regard Solange's personal safety, only using her sex for intelligence, and she winds up dead in the next scene. Later in Casino, Vesper Lynd (played by the great Eva Green) exclaims to Bond: "You think of women as disposable pleasures rather than meaningful pursuits." Not only was the franchise tackling a more vulnerable Bond, but they were also confronting his treatment towards women head-on. Something past Bond films did not do. In addition, throughout these five films, we got an enormous amount of strong supporting female actors (Eva Green, Olga Kurylenko, Naomie Harris, Léa Seydoux, Lashana Lynch, and Ana de Armas). Craig's Bond-era was also the first of the franchise to complete a saga. In the past, each Bond flick has been their own story, never continuing over into the next movie. That all change when Craig took over, giving us a fully fleshed-out arc for our bruised and beaten 007. No Time To Die doesn't hit the heights of Skyfall (2012) or Casino Royale, but I would put it at No. 3 for the Craig series.
Spectre (2015) and Quantum of Solace (2008) would round out No. 4 and 5. Both Skyfall (my favorite) and Casino re-energized the nearly 60-year-old franchise with fresh missions and innovative stories. While Spectre and Quantum were both bogged down with their own shortcomings. Spectre had some extraordinary action set pieces, but it seemed to wrestle with familiar past-Bond formula and mythology. Spectre also literally tried to connect the previous three films. While Quantum was a chaotic movie in both its writing and editing. However, there were some great ideas hidden underneath Quantum, but they just never came to the surface. Nevertheless, Craig kept us intrigued and invested. No Time works as both a direct sequel to Spectre and also ties up every loose end from this five-film saga. So, in the beginning, No Time is sort of dominated by Spectre's mythical writing, but I applaud Fukunaga for embracing this started path and not departing from it. Looking at you The Rise of Skywalker (2019).
Daniel Craig and Ana de Armas as James Bond and Paloma
No Time was written by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, Fukunaga, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge. Waller-Bridge (Fleabag) came in to polish the script and add a little more well-rounded humor. So, coming off the heels of 2015's Spectre, Bond, and his new love interest, Madeleine Swann (a wonderful Seydoux) are en route to Italy. Bond, still tormented by the death of Vesper (2006's Casino), has to say a final goodbye to her grave. Bond needs closure to his pain and broken love, but the past doesn't die. Madeleine's dark past has also caught up to her, leading to a breathtaking car chase scene through the streets of Matera. This confrontation leads Bond to break it off with Madeleine and move on with his life and retirement from MI6. No Time then jumps to five years later, where Bond is living peacefully in Jamaica. Yet the world's problems do not stop, and (as usual) the world needs 007 for one final mission. Felix (a grand Jeffrey Wright) confronts Bond about a dangerous bio-weapon called "Project Heracles." This bio-weapon contains nanobots that infect someone like a virus upon touch but are coded to an individual's specific DNA.
Lashana Lynch as Nomi, the new 00
The person behind these evil plans is a man named Safin (a creepy Rami Malek), who wants revenge on the entire SPECTRE organization for killing his family. No Time also gives us a brilliant and sinister cold opening with Safin's character confronting Madeleine's childhood home. This sequence in the icy snow sent chills down my spine. Now, Safin's character eventually molds into a generic villain who wants to take down the whole world — however — the introduction to his character was very intriguing. We also get Lashana Lynch, who plays the new 00, and Ana de Armas, who plays a CIA agent. Both Lynch and de Armas knock it out of the park with every scene they're in. I would have loved to of seen more de Armas throughout the film, but she was brilliant with her small on-screen performance. While Lynch's acting chops reign supreme throughout the picture. Her character adds new depths and layers to this old franchise. We also get some familiar friends back like Q (a brilliant Ben Whishaw), M (a stern Ralph Fiennes), Miss Moneypenny (Naomie Harris), and Tanner (Rory Kinnear).
Clocking in at 163 minutes, this is the longest Bond outing for the franchise. Overall, the film kept chugging away, but I do think it could have been trimmed down just a touch. Cinematographer Linus Sandgren (La La Land and First Man) gives us one of the most beautifully shot Bond films in the franchise (right underneath Skyfall). As well as Hans Zimmer's roaring score. You could feel every 00 beat in your bones. Fukunaga also gives us some incredible action sequences like the car chase scene in the Norway forest or an exhilarating single-take staircase fight sequence with Bond. This sequence blew me away with its tension, adrenaline, and no cuts. Craig, as usual, gives us another rousing performance as 007. One that is also incredibly emotional and heartfelt. Fukunaga also made a bold stance and took No Time in a direction that no previous Bond movie ever has. For that, I applaud him. No Time To Die is not a perfect picture, but it is satisfying, powerful, and a worthy conclusion to the Craig-era. I am excited to see where this 60-year-old franchise goes next. For now, Mr. Craig, I bid you farewell. Thank you for these last 15-years. Mission accomplished.
No Time To Die is rated PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned) Sequences of Violence & Action | Brief Strong Language | Some Disturbing Images | Some Suggestive Material.
No Time to Die had its world premiere at the Royal Albert Hall in London on 28 September 2021.
Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga
Starring Daniel Craig, Rami Malek, Léa Seydoux, Lashana Lynch, Ben Whishaw, Naomie Harris, Jeffrey Wright, Christoph Waltz, Ralph Fiennes, Rory Kinnear, David Dencik, Ana de Armas, and Billy Magnussen.
Review: The Card Counter
Yeah, this has Paul Schrader written all over it. The Card Counter is a slow-burning character study that's always engaging, always captivating. Oscar Isaac and Tiffany Haddish are fantastic, and their chemistry together is strong. Plus, I would love to see Haddish in more future dramas.
Like in all Paul Schrader films (director of First Reformed, writer of Taxi Driver and Raging Bull), The Card Counter has his signature feature of a protagonist on a self-destructive path. Through sin and sometimes salvation, our protagonist tries to transcend on a redemptive arc. Schrader likes to throw his audience into the broken mind of his protagonist that he displays on the screen. Often, it allows the audience to see all of the demons laying out to dry right before your very eyes. In The Card Counter, we follow a gambler (a phenomenal Oscar Isaac) who taught himself how to count cards during his eight-year stint in military prison. William Tell (Isaac) is a troubled man whose dark past grows more frightening the more we know about him. We learn that Tell was an ex-military interrogator at the Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq. As many know, during the early stages of the Iraq War, the Abu Ghraib prison became a place of torture where the United States Army and the CIA committed a series of major human rights violations and war crimes against the detainees.
The Abu Ghraib tortures and prisoner abuses were horrendous and will never be justified. In the film, Tell gets caught in a series of photographs, where he is convicted and has to do time. During these flashback scenes at Abu Ghraib, Schrader uses a fisheye lens to capture the horrors of the prison, giving off a paralyzing effect. These flashbacks are one small aspect of The Card Counter. Another crucial part of the plot involves a retired Major (a powerful Willem Dafoe) who got away clean from the Abu Ghraib tortures; a son (Tye Sheridan) who wants revenge for his father's death; and an investor (a fantastic Haddish) who backs gamblers for a portion of their winnings. All of these subplots intermingle throughout the picture until they all become tangled in a knot too hard to undo. Isaac's character likes living a life in the shadows. He enjoys staying under the radar, making small bets, and winning decent earnings from the casinos.
Haddish's character notices something special in him and wants him to join her 'stable' — where she can sponsor him for the big casino gambling competitions. Teller eventually agrees to take on La Linda's (Haddish) intriguing offer. Although Haddish is playing in a dramatic role, her character also offers moments of welcomed humor. From there, we travel down a foggy road full of twists and turns as more and more skeletons come falling out of the closest. This slow-burning picture is stamped with the seal of Schrader's cinematic trademark. The Card Counter will not be everyone's cup of tea. I know that Glynis and I were pretty split on this film. I found it much more engrossing than she did. So, fanatics of Schrader's filmography will gobble this movie up, while I think others will, at least, appreciate what he's doing here. The Card Counter might start out as a laid-back card movie, then it slowly begins to unravel into a psychological game of control. The Card Counter displays Isaac's gripping performance that is backed with a weighty storyline of morality.
The Card Counter is rated R (Restricted) Graphic Nudity |Brief Sexuality | Language | Some Disturbing Violence.
The Card Counter had its world premiere at the 78th Venice International Film Festival on September 2, 2021.
Directed by Paul Schrader
Starring Oscar Isaac, Tiffany Haddish, Tye Sheridan, and Willem Dafoe.
Review: The Eyes of Tammy Faye
Overall, The Eyes of Tammy Faye is a pretty good film. It does cater to biopic tropes, but Jessica Chastain's performance is a revelation. Andrew Garfield's acting chops are strong as well. Plus, the costume and makeup designs are phenomenal. It's worth your time.
The Eyes of Tammy Faye's substance might come off a bit surface level, but it's Chastain's incredible performance that excels the film. So, our movie takes an intimate look at the rise and fall of televangelists Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker. A good portion of the movie is set during the time of the 1970s and '80s. We follow this religious power couple, as they climb to the top through fraud and false hope. The Bakker's created the world's largest religious broadcasting network (The PTL Club) and even a 'Christian' theme park. The Bakker's prevailed on a message of love and prosperity, except it was all a sham. Like all televangelists, the Bakker's profited on the vulnerable, racking in huge swarms of money. "Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless."
Now, director Michael Showalter (Hello, My Name Is Doris and The Big Sick) also gives Tammy Faye's character a bit of a redemptive arc. In Showalter's picture, Tammy Faye was oblivious to her husband's dubious schemes. If that was reality, I am not sure. But Chastain's compelling performance makes it so believable. The film also briefly touches on Jim Bakker's extra-marital affairs, sexual misconduct and rape allegations. Although, it keeps these discoveries pretty surface level and instead focuses heavily on his financial schemes. I took this as a possibility of looking through Tammy Faye's point of view and how she probably didn't know every detail of what her sinister husband was up to. Maybe? Tammy Faye was also known for her heavy makeup, wild eyelashes, eccentric singing, and enthusiasm to embrace people from all walks of life.
Tammy Faye's acceptance towards others transcended during the AIDS crisis. During that time, Faye began to reach out to the LGBTQ+ community. The movie also introduces us to other slimy televangelists like Jerry Falwell (played by Vincent D'Onofrio) and Pat Robertson (played by Gabriel Olds). As the story progresses later in the years, slowly Chastain transforms more and more into her role. She hits a point where she looks and sounds exactly like the real Tammy Faye. She's indistinguishable, in a good way. This is the power of great acting. Overall, through all of the story's faults, The Eyes of Tammy Faye is still a fun movie to watch. I was entertained the whole time. Chastain gives us one of her best performances, one that is also Oscar-worthy. I hope she stays in the conversation this awards season. In the end, through the glitter, glamour, fraud, and a bit of Jesus, this is Tammy Faye's story.
Want to hear more of my thoughts about Tammy Faye? I spoke with my good friends, Matt and Ashley, on their podcast, Mashely at the Movies | Listen Here.
The Eyes of Tammy Faye had its world premiere at the 2021 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 12, 2021 and is currently playing in theaters.
The Eyes of Tammy Faye is rated PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned) Sexual Content and Drug Abuse.
Directed by Michael Showalter
Starring Jessica Chastain, Andrew Garfield, Cherry Jones, Fredric Lehne, Louis Cancelmi, Gabriel Olds, and Vincent D'Onofrio.


SURELY there's been some mistake here. I was told to drive the new facelifted Astra, but this one is clearly the same as the model released in 2004.
What's that you say? It's got revised front and rear light lenses, front bumper and extra chrome detailing on the grille? Ah yes, how could I miss them?
OK, so the visual changes to Vauxhall's lower-medium model are hardly dramatic. The interior has had the briefest of surgical procedures, with new detailing in either piano black or matt chrome over the centre console and steering wheel.
The detailing – piano black on our test car – seems to divide opinion. I think it looks rather smart, especially as Vauxhall has cunningly managed to make it impervious to dirty fingerprints. However, the passengers who experienced the Astra during its few days at Fleet News were less impressed. You can't please 'em all.
But while the cosmetic tweaks are worth a mention, it's the work under the bonnet that deserves the most coverage.
For those wanting performance a new 178bhp, 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine replaces the old 168bhp 2.0-litre unit and provides reduced emissions and better performance.
But even more fleet-friendly is the revised 1.6 Twinport petrol unit. Where the old unit wheezed out 104bhp, the new engine packs 114bhp but with better fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. Expect a combined fuel economy figure of 43.5mpg – an increase of 4% over the engine's predecessor – and emissions of 156g/km, down from 158g/km.
The benefits are best shown in the estate version with the same engine – emissions are down from 166g/km to 158g/km, which means a reduction of up to £25 in road tax and a benefit-in-kind tax saving of £109 a year for a 22% tax payer.
But it's the five-door hatchback we're testing, and while the financial pros are not as considerable as the estate, things are still improved. Acceleration is quicker – the new engine now hits 60mph from standstill in 10.9 seconds, an improvement of 0.6 seconds.
The tweaks are appreciated. The new unit is smooth and at the top end has enough power for overtaking or joining a motorway without having to work it too much. But how does it compare to the more traditional fleet fare – the diesel?
Vauxhall sees the new petrol engine as offering another option to diesel drivers, and the closest match in the Astra range is the 99bhp 1.7 CDTi. Although it boasts 177lb-ft of torque compared to the petrol version's 114, the diesel can only manage 11.5 seconds to 60mph. It does flaunt its 55.4 combined mpg, but in the Design spec we tested it costs £16,685 against £15,400 for the similarly-specced petrol.
Over a three-year/60,000-mile fleet life, both will retain 29% of their value according to CAP, so the petrol will offer fleet managers less cash lost.
The clincher is company car tax. Both versions fall into the 18% tax bracket, which means a 22% taxpayer will pay less for the cheaper petrol car – £603 a year versus £655. Those sums make the new 1.6 Twinport a serious fleet contender.
IF you're looking for the cheapest car, take a good look at the Volkswagen before you head for the Ford. The Golf is only £40 more than the Focus and offers more standard equipment. Of the Vauxhalls the diesel is more expensive than its same spec petrol cousin.
THE Ford and the Volkswagen cost the least to tax. The Vauxhalls have lower emissions but all four fall into the same tax bracket, so the cheaper cars bring the smallest BIK bills. The Focus and Golf cost £49 a month for a 22% taxpayer, while the Astra petrol is £50 and the diesel £55.
WITH the smallest wheels of the line-up – 15-inch – the Golf comes out cheaper by a fraction thanks to lower tyre costs but the petrol Astra is not far behind, being by far the cheapest to service. There's not much to choose between the diesel Astra and the Focus.
UNSURPRISINGLY, diesel power is all-conquering here. The Astra's CDTi engine returns 55.4mpg, streets ahead of the petrol rivals. Of those, the other Astra is the most frugal with economy of 43.5mpg against the Focus with 42.8mpg and the Golf's 42.2mpg.
THE strength of the Volkswagen badge pushes the Golf far ahead in residual value terms. CAP reckons that after three years/60,000 miles the Golf will retain 41% of its value. The Focus is a distant second, retaining 30%, while both Astras will hold on to 29%.
THE Volkswagen is by far the cheapest to run over a three-year/ 60,000-mile fleet life. Cheap at the front-end, strong residuals and the cheapest SMR costs put it well ahead of the rest. The Ford and Vauxhalls are similar – good fuel economy can't make up for low RVs.
THE only real choice here is the Golf. Although the petrol Astra proves a worthy alternative to its diesel sibling on the road and in financial terms, both Vauxhalls are outperformed by the Volkswagen. The German car is a solid all-rounder that won't break the bank during its fleet life and will fetch a good price when its stay is at an end.
is the astra 1.6 16valve petrol engine, belt driven or chain driven ?


In May 1979 consumer Ros Capper of Wellington, New Zealand, attended the Birth and Being Congress in Melbourne, Australia. She was funded by the Mental Health Foundation to do so; her report to the funders can be read here.
Ros, initially assisted by midwife Pam Skelton, had begun work in 1979 to establish an out-of-hospital birth centre. This idea gained momentum with the announcement of closure of the Wellington St Helens Hospital.
In 1980 a public meeting was held and Birth & Beyond began. It became an Incorporated Society in November 1980. The rules of the Incorporated Society embraced an out-of-hospital birth centre.
The Wellington Hospital Board did not support out-of-hospital birthing but an unbiased exploration of the option was urged by the Professor of Community Health.The Board offered an area within the hospital but this area was not suitable to Birth and Beyond Inc members for the birth centre and education centre which they wanted to develop. The Board would eventually offer a house in Owen St for the purpose but the then Health Department deemed it substandard.
The archive was dishevilled and has been re-organised into 4 categories – correspondence, documents, newsclippings and a combined newsletters-minutes.
The topics of the newspaper clippings include the closure of St Helens Hospital, Wellington, home birth, opening of Wellington Women's Hospital, the Domino Scheme, midwifery autonomy and letters to the editor.
The Society was Informed by literature and reports on options in maternity care, optimal birth environments, child abuse, birth alternatives, standards and guidelines for midwifery and obstetric practice, birth centre statistics, women & health magazines, natural childbirth, postnatal care, baby slings, International Year of the Child 1979, foundations of love, NAPSAC, Midwifery Contact Centre (Australia), Maternity Centre Association (USA), Home Birth Association (Sydney, Australia), non-violent action training, parent effectiveness training, International Childbirth Education Association and Parents Centre.


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Diabecon seems to be the wonder supplement for diabetics due to its promising effects on blood sugar maintenance, cholesterol control and cell-regeneration. It is quickly growing in popularity since it also presents no side effects and contraindications.
Diabecon is an herbal supplement that helps control blood sugar by lowering the glycated hemoglobin level. It also lowers microalbuminuria and long term effects of diabetes as well as balances lipid profile and cholesterol. Diabecon has many functions that support individuals having problems with their body glucose levels and fat absorption like diabetics. The supplement enhances the peripheral use of glucose and boosts hepatic and muscle glycogen content and C-peptide level.
The complex formula is basically in the form of tablets so it is taken orally. Diabecon also improves b-cell repair and regeneration especially in the pancreas. It also acts as an antioxidant further protecting b-cells from damage and oxidative stress. Diabecon helps control cholesterol by regulating the metabolism of lipids and ensuring that serum triglycerides and cholesterol are normal.
Diabecon is generally safe to take for a lot of individuals. As an herbal supplement, it does not pose any serious risks or even side effects. Individuals are only advised to take it as prescribed. There are absolutely no contraindications with regards to the formula so even people with heart ailments, respiratory problems and psychological conditions can take it safely. Pregnant women and nursing mothers are advised to consult their physician first before taking Diabecon.
Overall, Diabecon is proven safe and useful to almost all individuals. When used as an adjuvant in IDDM and NIDDM, it is recommended to titrate the dose of insulin and oral anti-diabetic under the supervision of a health professional. Special caution must be given to children however and it should be kept out of reach at all times. There are no reported side effects as well but people are advised to take it with an empty stomach for full effectiveness. There are no known drug or food interactions as well.
Diabecon to an extent works like insulin. Cells will be able to absorb blood glucose more to be used as energy so total glycated hemoglobin level is normalized as well as proteins and lipids. Blood sugar will be readily transmitted into body circulation. Diabecon also rids the body particularly the b-cells of oxidants and harmful agents so cell recovery and regeneration is faster and more efficient.
Out of thirty NIDDM patients, all presented a significant reduction in sugar and glycosylated hemoglobin levels after taking Diabecon. 15 of the patients were newly diagnosed with NIDDM while the other 15 were known diabetics taking high doses of OHA. Diabecon was also shown to be effective even when used with other OHA's in NIDDM treatment.
It is advised to buy Diabecon herbal supplements only at trusted pharmacies, health stores or online stores. Checking for certification as well as the contents will ensure that overall quality is not compromised and that the product is pure and fresh.
The indicated dosage for Diabecon is 2 tablets taken twice or thrice daily 30 minutes before meals on an empty stomach. The effects are not immediate as the body needs to slowly normalize glucose levels. Individuals should also watch their diet and exercise to maximize the effects of the formula. Store the tablets in room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.


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← Los Angeles shines as a theatre town
Free play reading of powerful new play 'We Will Not Be Silent' Thurs July 20 at 7pm →
Veteran TV producer and showrunner Clifton Campbell joins Fountain Theatre Board of Directors
Clifton Campbell and his wife Kim at the 2017 Academy Awards.
"The feeling I get sitting in a theatre just before the houselights fade is one that is very personal for me," admits TV producer and writer Clifton Campbell. "Excitement for what's about to unfold. The anticipation of bold ideas told through flawed and deeply human characters promising to take me to a richer understanding of a world outside my own. In that moment, I sit wondering not if this play is ready for me; but if I am ready for this play. For the shared human experience you can only get from live theatre."
It is clear that the Fountain Theatre is ready for Clifton Campbell. The Fountain is pleased and honored to announce that veteran TV producer, showrunner and writer Clifton Campbell has joined the Fountain Theatre Board of Directors.
"Cliff is passionate about developing a new program to engage parents who have children wanting to be writers," says Fountain Co-Artistic Director Stephen Sachs. "He is also committed to building a bridge between the Fountain Theatre and the TV industry. He is eager to guide the forming of new relationships between the Fountain and TV professionals. Cliff is a smart guy with decades of experience as a TV producer, and his heart has never left the theatre. We are thrilled to have him on our Board of Directors."
Clifton Campbell has enjoyed a career in television spanning more than 30 years. Recently, Clifton was Executive Producer for the TV series Sleepy Hollow. He was also Executive Producer of White Collar, The Glades, Profiler, Wiseguy, and others. He has partnered with such producers as Steven Spielberg, Stephen J. Cannell, and Michael Mann.
Clifton was born and raised in Hialeah, Florida. He graduated from Florida State University and moved to Chicago to pursue a career as a playwright.
"The early eighties was an amazing time for theatre in Chicago," remembers Campbell. "I was witness to ground-breaking new works and game changing productions from companies like Steppenwolf, St. Nicholas, The Goodman, Body Politic, Wisdom Bridge and Victory Gardens, all of whom were leading the charge in a new age of Regional Theatre. The six years I spent in Chicago theatre was the greatest education of my life."
His work as a playwright caught the eye of producer/director Michael Mann, landing him a writing job on Mann's TV series Crime Story. Clifton's writing career took off and escalated to TV producing, but he always remained a theatre guy. He also became a family guy. Clifton and his wife Kim have been married for sixteen years and together have three grown children; Bailey, Jordan and Paige.
"The Fountain Theatre is everything I think of when I remember those incredible days back in Chicago," says Campbell. "I am proud and excited to be joining its Board of Directors. "
This entry was posted in arts organizations, Fountain Theatre, Hollywood, movies, new plays, non-profit organization, parenting, performing arts, plays, playwright, television, Theater, theatre and tagged Board of Directors, Chicago, Clifton Campbell, Florida State University, Fountain Theatre, Los Angeles, Michael Mann, playwright, producer, Showrunner, Sleepy hollow, Stephen J. Cannell, Stephen Sachs, Steven Spielberg, television, theater, theatre, TV producer, White Collar, writer. Bookmark the permalink.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Just watched this Scientific American video on stress adaptation / management. Great to get a glimpse of the mechanics of stress and how we can tune our response to stressors.
This entry was tagged brain, neuroscience, science, scientific american, stress. Bookmark the permalink.


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Sean Penn and his estranged wife Leila George retain the services of a private judge in an effort to speed up their ongoing divorce
By Sam Joseph Semon For Dailymail.com
Sean Penn and his estranged wife, Leila George, have retained a private judge in their ongoing divorce.
The former couple has requested to appoint Hon. Scott Gordon as their privately compensated temporary judge in the future, according to People.
The 61-year-old actor has agreed to pay the judge for his time and services, which also includes his $950 hourly rate and additional fees.
New development: Sean Penn and his estranged wife, Leila George, have retained a private judge in their ongoing divorce; they are seen in 2020
The pair have booked out Gordon's services in an effort to expedite their divorce through California's backlogged courts, as he will act as an extension of the state's court.
Penn and George, 29, were initially romantically linked in 2016 after they were seen sharing a kiss during a Hawaiian getaway.
Back on? Sean Penn, 61, and estranged wife Leila George, 29,... Sean Penn, 60, appears in high spirits as he and his...
Prior to becoming involved with the daughter of fellow actor Vincent D'Onofrio, the Fast Times At Ridgemont High cast member was married to singer Madonna from 1985 until 1989.
He went on to begin a relationship with actress Robin Wright, with whom he welcomed a daughter named Dylan and a son named Hopper in the early 1990s.
Smart move: The pair have booked out Gordon's services in an effort to expedite their divorce through California's backlogged courts, as he will act as an extension of the state's court; they are pictured in 2020
The two separated for a brief time, although they eventually reconciled and married in 1996.
Penn and Wright eventually separated several times in the mid-2000s and eventually finalized their divorce in 2010.
He then began dating fellow actress Charlize Theron, with whom he was first spotted in 2013.
Hollywood stars: Robin Wright and Sean are shown in February 2009 in Hollywood
The former couple remained together for two years before they ultimately went their separate ways in 2015.
Following his split from the Mad Max: Fury Road actress, the performer began seeing George, whom he eventually married in July of 2020.
The pair had engaged in an on-again-off-again relationship prior to deciding to make their union official.
Tying the knot: Following his split from the Mad Max: Fury Road actress, the performer began seeing George, whom he eventually married in July of 2020; they are seen in 2019
The two notably held their ceremony over Zoom, with only his children and her brother physically in attendance.
It was later revealed by TMZ that the actor's wife had filed for divorce this past October.
The couple appeared to remain on good terms after the filing, as they were spotted spending time together in George's native Australia during this most recent New Year's Eve.
Separate ways: It was later revealed by TMZ that the actor's wife had filed for divorce this past October; they are seen in 2021
Sean Penn's Wife Leila George Files For Divorce After 1 Year of Marriage
Sean Penn and Leila George Hire Private Judge in Divorce | PEOPLE.com
Sean Penn and his estranged wife Leila George retain the services of a private judge
'This signals the end of the pandemic': Ex-FDA chief Scott Gottlieb contradicts Fauci and says 'dramatically...
Biden has spent a QUARTER of his first 365 days in office at his Delaware homes including half of his...
NYC subway travel 2022: Straphangers wait on the WRONG SIDE of the turnstiles to protect themselves from...
Silicon Valley billionaire and Golden State Warriors minority owner Chamath Palihapitiya, 45, sparks outrage...
Live on a cruise ship... without breaking the bank: Inside the 'affordable' new residential vessel offering...


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Terminal Tackle - Rigs - Blackfish Tautog Rigs - Tackle U.S.
Rigs designed for Blackfish fishing. Blackfish is also referred to as Tautog or simply Tog. Blackfish like to hide in the rocks and will especially try for the rocks once hooked. Less experienced anglers be prepared to lose alot of rigs. If you are lucky enough to land a keeper you will be well rewarded as Blackfish make excellent table fare.


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Staying guests can use Kenroku parking for 24 hours per stay.
*Regular parking rates: JPY350 / 60 min (7:00 – 22:00) After the first hours, JPY150 per 30 min is charged.
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Enjoy dining inn elegant comfort at At Sushi Kanazawa. At Sushi Kanazawa is an all sesory encompassing dining experience where Modern Japanese Cuisine that features teppan and sushi ``creations`` is to be indulged in a sleek, contemporary atmosphere. At Sushi Kanazawa has something for everyone to enjoy.


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Paris For Foodies
Posted by Crown Life Magazine in Your Crown // 0 Comments
Paris currently boasts over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it one of most foodie-friendly capitals in the world. Sieving through the list can be daunting (especially when you see the menu prices, which frequently ride over the €150 mark), so here's our list of the best Michelin eateries, whether you fancy food that has been awarded one, two or three (very dramatic) stars…
Plaza Athenee
The sheer glamour factor would be enough to recommend this restaurant, Alain Ducasse's most lofty Paris undertaking. The dining room ceiling drips with 10,000 crystals. An amuse-bouche of a single langoustine in a lemon cream with a touch of Iranian caviar starts the meal off beautifully, but other dishes can be inconsistent: a part-raw/part-cooked salad of autumn fruit and veg in a red, Chinese-style sweet-and-sour dressing, or Breton lobster in an overwhelming sauce of apple, quince and spiced wine. Cheese is predictably delicious, as is the rum baba comme à Monte-Carlo.
L' arpege
Assuming you can swallow an exceptionally high bill – it's €42 for a potato starter, for example – chances are you'll have a spectacular time at chef Alain Passard's Left Bank establishment. His attempt to plane down and simplify the haute experience – the chrome-armed chairs look like something from the former DDR – seems a misstep; but then something edible comes to the table, such as tiny smoked potatoes served with a horseradish mousseline. A main course of sautéed free-range chicken with a roasted shallot, an onion, potato mousseline and pan juices is the apotheosis of comfort food. Desserts are elegant.
Le Meurice
With its extravagant Louis XVI decor, mosaic tiled floors and modish restyling by Philippe Starck, Le Meurice is looking grander than ever. All 160 rooms (kitted out with iPod-ready radio alarms) are done up in distinct historical styles; the Belle Etoile suite on the seventh floor provides panoramic views of Paris from its terrace and you can relax in the Winter Garden to the strains of regular jazz performances. For more intensive intervention, head over to the lavishly appointed spa with treatments by Valmont; or give your taste buds a whirl on chef Yannick Alléno's refined 3-star Michelin cuisine.
Hotel le Bristol
Set on the exclusive rue du Faubourg St-Honoré, near luxury boutiques such as Christian Lacroix, Azzaro, Salvatore Ferragamo, Givenchy and Dolce & Gabbana, the Bristol is a supremely luxurious 'palace' hotel with a loyal following of fashionistas and millionaires drawn by the location, impeccable service, larger than average rooms and a three Michelin-starred restaurant with Eric Fréchon at the helm. The Bristol's new seven-storey wing opened in late 2009, with 22 new rooms and four suites, all with views of the Eiffel Tower.
At Pierre Gagnaire most starters alone cost over €90, which seems to be the price of culinary experimentation. The €90 lunch menu is far from the experience of the carte: the former is presented in three courses, whereas the latter involves four or five plates for each course. Even the amuse-bouches fill the table: an egg 'raviole', ricotta with apple, fish in a cauliflower jelly, and glazed monkfish. The best thing about the lunch menu is that it includes four very indulgent desserts: clementine, raspberry and vanilla, chocolate, and passion fruit.
About Crown Life Magazine (116 Articles)
Editor-in-chief Jennia Fredrique is a writer, lover, actor, philanthropist, laugher, hedonist, dancer and human. She studies metaphysics and believes that life is a daring adventure or nothing at all... her current goals are flying a kite, riding a hot air balloon and having tea with the queen....


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Wearing face masks may reduce infections, but doesn't replace social distancing, CA health director says
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Amid the novel coronavirus outbreak, many people want to know about masks - should you wear one and can it help protect from the virus?
On Wednesday, Sonia Angell, California's director of public health, addressed the concern.
"So there is some evidence that coverings may reduce asymptomatic infections, " she said. "And also it might signal to others that you need to keep a little bit of distance. It does also work through decreasing the amount of infectious particles that go into the air when we cough or we sneeze or we talk, particularly when we speak closely to other people. But again it doesn't replace the need for physical distancing."
While the U.S. Centers for Disease Control considers shifting official guidelines on wearing masks, ordinary citizens are already taking matters into their own hands by making their own face coverings.
RELATED: Coronavirus: California schools closed through end of academic year, Gov. Newsom says
With N95 and surgical masks sold out and back-ordered until at least May, social media feeds are becoming virtual sewing circles. The homemade masks are now making their way to the front line fight against coronavirus.
"We are making a first distribution to Highland Hospital this week, they requested 600 masks from us," said Minh Ngo, executive director of My New Red Shoes, a non-profit based in Redwood City. "We're also partnering with Kaiser systems throughout the Bay Area."
Normally they distribute shoes to homeless and low income children. But in the midst of a pandemic, their volunteers are now sewing thousands of masks, based on a Kaiser approved template. "Within a couple days of when we launched our effort, we had hundreds of volunteers signed up across the Bay Area and actually across the country to make these masks for our health care workers."
"Unfortunately, San Francisco as with the rest of the region, as with the rest of the country, has a severe, severe shortage of masks," said Dr. Grant Colfax, the director of San Francisco Department of Public Health.
His department issued recommendations for all health department employees and first responders to wear masks.
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Beginning Sunday, UCSF instituted a universal surgical mask policy.
All staff, faculty, trainees and visitors must complete a screening and then obtain a surgical mask.
"We are asking everyone to keep mask that you receive as long as possible, until it becomes soiled. We need these masks for public health and first responder purposes," Dr. Colfax said.
As for the general public, local and state officials are still waiting on face covering recommendations from the CDC.
"Expect in the next 24 hours, that the state of California will put out more prescriptive guidelines in that space," said Gov. Gavin Newsom during a Wednesday briefing.
For people who want to cover their faces, but don't have any proper masks or ability to sew, there are instructions online for sew-less DIY masks.
Just make sure whatever protection you wear, you still maintain your 6-feet of social distance.
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Pressure Cleaning Selby is the highest rated, expert pressure cleaning & exterior house washing company in Selby. We service all residential areas throughout Melbourne and Mornington Peninsula.
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We works with companies throughout Selby, offering environmentally compliant, high pressure steam cleaning and water blasting services that allow organisations to meet hygiene compliance policies and offer staff and visitors with an enjoyable environment.
Our certified, licensed and completely insured staff clean both indoor and outdoor areas around your business. Our reliable staff are readily available to work after hours to avoid any disruptions to your business. We are also certified and licensed to work at height as our service frequently involves tall buildings, which might need abseiling or elevated work platforms.
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