Rudy Giuliani’s “star” witness brings about all the LOLs
Late night hosts: Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel all weighed in on the very absurd testimony given in Michigan. No one knew the name Melissa Carone before Dec. 1, but the now viral videos will undoubtedly be turned into memes and SNL sketches very soon.
Still not convinced this isn’t a SNL character. (A judge previously declared this Trump supporter /freelance contract IT worker’s testimony “simply not credible.”) pic.twitter.com/ptsN665A0T
Carone’s Testimony on the alleged Voter Fraud is like as kit from out of ‘SNL’
Even if Rudy Giuliani will retire from all the recent comedy he has provided, the baton has been passed Ms. Carone. With her “talent” and flair for the dramatics, we can all look forward to many more years of comedic rants from this oversight committee hearing.
It’s hard not to immediately compare the insanity that was called a testimony and not compare it to performances on “Saturday Night Live”. Specifically like the above video that hilariously showcases Cecily Strong’s drunk girl character.
The epic sci-fi with man eating sandworms is coming to a theater or couch near you
The production company Warner Bros. announced its plan to release ALL its 2021 movies in an unprecedented, unique hybrid, consumer-focused, yet very 2020 way. Warner Bros. will release its films theatrically worldwide, while also adding exclusive access to the HBO Max streaming platform on the same day for a one month period (U.S. only).
There will be a wide range of releases on HBO Max throughout 2021 for every type of movie lover. One much anticipated movie on the list is Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s of Dune. The movie will hits both theaters and HBO Max on October 1, 2021.
The star-studded cast includes: Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Stellan Skarsgård, Zendaya, Jason Momoa, Josh Brolin, Dave Bautista, and Javier Bardem.
Speaking of Zendaya and HBO, the “Euphoria” Rue special is coming this weekend and will air Dec. 6. The series premiered summer 2019 and was supposed to return for a second season this year. Due to COVID-19 the production was shut down but creator Sam Levinson shot two “special episodes” in order to give audience a little something and bridge the gap to Season 2.
In an article by Inverse, Herbert’s son, Brian Herbert spoke about the upcoming film:
“I was very impressed by the trailer, and I was thrilled to actually be on the movie set in Budapest last year, where my wife and I watched the filming of several scenes. This is a really big movie, a major project that will forever be considered THE definitive film adaptation of Frank Herbert’s classic novel. Fans are going to love this movie. Denis Villeneuve is the perfect director to do Dune.”
The mythic and emotionally charged hero’s journey, “Dune” tells the story of Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, who must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode into conflict over the planet’s exclusive supply of the most precious resource in existence—a commodity capable of unlocking humanity’s greatest potential—only those who can conquer their fear will survive.
Here is a little taste of the titles you’ll be seeing next year
Alongside “Wonder Woman: 1984” for Christmas release 2020, there will be an additional 17 movies to be released over the next 12 months.
Immediate Streaming option set after blockbuster WB / HBO max announcement
In great news for Harley Quinn aficionados, included among the 17 movie titles to be released simultaneously in theaters and on HBO Max, is the upcoming sequel, “The Suicide Squad”. HBO Max subscribers will be able to reap the benefits and watch, for no extra charge, Harley and Crew in the DC movie on August 6, 2021.
The star studded cast, will be be reprising their roles from the 2016 version (Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn) and also a huge list of stars to play the DC villains. There are also set to be additional high-profile new additions including Idris Elba, Peter Capaldi and Sylvester Stallone.
Brad Pitt Coupling for Babylon in the works
In other Margot Robbie news, a major development: reports that she will replace Emma Stone in “Babylon” alongside Brad Pitt.
Margot and Pitt have worked together splendidly in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”. Babylon, a Paramount production has a Christmas Day 2021 release date planned.
Because the California Film Commission coughed up a $17.5 million tax credit based on the film qualifying as a “period drama” and California project, and that “Babylon” is expected to generate $83.4 mil. in local economic activity, a.k.a. “qualified spending”, the shooting will need to commence within 180 days (or lose all that cash).
Oh wait, and in addition to director James Gunn’s new take on his version of “The Suicide Squad” to hit theaters and HBO Max on Aug 06, 2021, Gunn is also working on a television series for HBO, a spin-off called “Peacemaker” which is currently in production.
Immediate streaming option set after unprecedented, game-changing announcement
Warner Bros. has announced it will be releasing its 2021 movies in a unique hybrid, consumer-focused, yet very 2020 way. Warner Bros. will release its films theatrically worldwide, while also adding exclusive access to the HBO Max streaming platform on the same day for a one month period (U.S. only).
HBO Max and Warner Bros. are both owned by WarnerMedia, which is owned by AT&T.
This shift and strategic response by WarnerMedia is a game changer and highlights a major shift industry’s are recognizing in how viewers consume entertainment, or at least for the next year.
There will be a wide range of releases on HBO Max throughout 2021 for every all types of movie lovers. Alongside Wonder Woman:1984 for Christmas release 2020, there will be an additional 17 movies to be released over the next 12 months.
The Little Things
Judas and the Black Messiah
Tom & Jerry
Godzilla vs. Kong
Mortal Kombat
Those Who Wish Me Dead
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It
In The Heights
Space Jam: A New Legacy
The Suicide Squad
Reminiscence
Malignant
Dune
The Many Saints of Newark
King Richard
Cry Macho
Matrix 4
The only other studio that is currently set up for dual release besides Warner Bros with HBO Max, is Disney with Disney+, which certainly will help to secure its position in the top tier of the very competitive world of streaming entertainment.
Only time will tell if the pandemic will permanently alter the way we watch movies. Yet if given the option of getting access to blockbuster films at home and on the same exact date as the theatrical release, poses a serious question to how theaters will react.
“No one wants films back on the big screen more than we do. We know new content is the lifeblood of theatrical exhibition, but we have to balance this with the reality that most theaters in the U.S. will likely operate at reduced capacity throughout 2021. With this unique one-year plan, we can support our partners in exhibition with a steady pipeline of world-class films, while also giving moviegoers who may not have access to theaters or aren’t quite ready to go back to the movies the chance to see our amazing 2021 films. We see it as a win-win for film lovers and exhibitors, and we’re extremely grateful to our filmmaking partners for working with us on this innovative response to these circumstances.”
-Ann Sarnoff, Chair and CEO, WarnerMedia Studios
What will come of Theater Chains and the future of the movie viewing experience
he debut for WB’s slate of movies to hit streaming services concurrently with theater releases, will undoubtedly have drastic consequences for the the already hard-pressed and struggling theaters.
Warner Bros. made mention that the hybrid release is strictly due to the pandemic, yet it’s unclear how the studio will navigate with movie releases for 2022 and beyond given the new model they are setting into motion.
Movie theater stock prices fell on the news. AMC shares dropped more than 15 percent, while Cinemark was down 14.5 percent.
Following the announcement, theater chain AMC’s CEO and president, Adam Aron made note they have “already commenced an immediate and urgent dialogue with the leadership of Warner on this subject.” He continued by saying “As for AMC, we will do all in our power to ensure that Warner does not do so at our expense. We will aggressively pursue economic terms that preserve our business.”
Theaters like AMC were agreeable to the one time exception of the Wonder Woman:1984 release to both theaters and streaming, however it appears they are less on board with the decision to upload the entirety of 2021’s schedule of films with that same release model.
Another large theater chain, Cinemark, wasn’t able to comment on how the hybrid model would impact its theaters in the long-term, “In light of the current operating environment, we are making near-term booking decisions on a film-by-film basis,” said a spokesperson.
It’s hard to not to have seen something like this coming. Streaming videos are been on the rise. Earlier this year Disney+ released “Mulan” and Universal released “King of Staten Island” and “Trolls: World Tour” straight to on-demand platforms.
Warner Bros and HBO are doing it a little differently. What has been typical during the pandemic, is the rise of premium video-on- demand (PVOD) where viewers are given access to blockbusters on the same day as theater release but you have to pay a premium price, upwards of $30. Yet in the case of WB’s 2021 movies, if you are already a HBO Max subscriber, you get to watch these movies at no additional charge, other than your monthly fee. Compared to a PVOD price of $30 for one movie, $14.99 a month for the 17 movies for 2021 is a no brainer.
Even though, announcements like those for WB are in a way a form of the studio experimenting to see what works while we are in a pandemic, there’s some major signs that this is the beginning of the end for movie theaters.
It’s unclear whether the dual release model will become the new precedent for how Warner Bro operators in business, as currently only 2021 films are on the table. However, at present, theaters, like Regal Cinema are nearly at the brink of bankruptcy.
A more permanent “new normal” appears to be emerging in effort to adapt to a post-pandemic future
The debut for WB’s slate of movies to hit streaming services concurrently with theater releases, will undoubtedly have drastic consequences for the the already hard-pressed and struggling theaters.
Warner Bros. made mention that the hybrid release is strictly due to the pandemic, yet it’s unclear how the studio will navigate with movie releases for 2022 and beyond given the new model they are setting into motion.
Movie theater stock prices fell on the news. AMC shares dropped more than 15 percent, while Cinemark was down 14.5 percent.
Following the announcement, theater chain AMC’s CEO and president, Adam Aron made note they have “already commenced an immediate and urgent dialogue with the leadership of Warner on this subject.” He continued by saying “As for AMC, we will do all in our power to ensure that Warner does not do so at our expense. We will aggressively pursue economic terms that preserve our business.”
Theaters like AMC were agreeable to the one time exception of the Wonder Woman:1984 release to both theaters and streaming, however it appears they appear less thrilled to be on-board with the decision to upload the entirety of 2021’s schedule of films with that same release model.
Another large theater chain, Cinemark, wasn’t able to comment on how the hybrid model would impact its theaters in the long-term, “In light of the current operating environment, we are making near-term booking decisions on a film-by-film basis,” said a spokesperson.
It’s hard to not to have seen something like this coming. Streaming videos are been on the rise. Earlier this year Disney+ released “Mulan” and Universal released “King of Staten Island” and “Trolls: World Tour” straight to on-demand platforms.
Future evolution of entertainment distribution is a big unknown, like nearly everything else
Warner Bros and HBO are doing it a little differently. What has been typical during the pandemic, is the increased number of options for premium video-on-demand (PVOD) where viewers are given access to blockbusters on the same day as theater release but are required to pay a premium price, in some cases upwards of $30.
Yet in the case of WB’s 2021 movies, provided you are already a HBO Max subscriber, you will be able to watch these movies at no additional charge, other than your monthly fee. Compared to a PVOD price of $30 for one movie, $14.99 a month for the 17 movies for 2021 seems like a no-brainer.
There is a 30-day availability limitation currently set on these special same-day release titles, but that would likely only be an issue if you wanted to sign up for a single month to game the system, so to speak.
It does appear to be the case that this announcement and others that may be soon to come, still represent a form of experimentation by WB / HBO max to see what works during a pandemic. At the same time, there are some major signs that this is the beginning of the end for movie theaters, at least as the primary vehicle for the initial release phase of major feature films.
It’s unclear whether the dual release model will set a permanent new precedent for how Warner Brothers conducts its business, as currently only 2021 films are on the table. Come 2022 it is also possible that the entire entertainment landscape will be unrecognizable, since, for example, theater chains, such as Regal Cinema, are already at the brink of bankruptcy.
Entire WB slate will have simultaneous HBO max availability
Warner Bros. has announced it will be releasing its 2021 movies in a unique hybrid, consumer-focused, yet very 2020 way. Warner Bros. will release its films theatrically worldwide, while also adding exclusive access to the HBO Max streaming platform on the same day for a one month period (U.S. only).
Among the 17 titles now slated to be available on HBO max on the same day of theatrical release are Matrix 4, Mortal Kombat and Godzilla vs. Kong. There will be no “video-on-demand” uncharge as long as you are an HBO max member. There is also a 30 day limitation on the availability of each title from the day of release, with an unknown “dark” period until it would, presumably, become available again as part of the general HBO max offerings.
Strong enticement to subscribe if you tend to enjoy WB films and other HBO exclusives
Although, for example, DreamWorks Animation sequel Trolls World Tour was made available for rental, and Disney’s Mulan was on Disney Plus in September, in both cases there was an up-charge to stream them and considered at the time to be “early” for streaming release and therefore require this extra payment to view. HBO max, due to it’s affiliation to Warner Brothers, will be offering its films for no extra charge as long as you have a membership.
It’s also important to note that HBO Max has discontinued the previously established weeklong free trial. So, for example it you want to see Wonder Woman on December 25th or stream any of the upcoming films, a minimum of one month of the service, which is $15 would have to be paid or, in some cases you might be able to take a regular HBO subscription and use it to snag a free upgrade to HBO max. There may also be specials to sign up that can be found, with a little sleuthing on your part.
“No one wants films back on the big screen more than we do. We know new content is the lifeblood of theatrical exhibition, but we have to balance this with the reality that most theaters in the U.S. will likely operate at reduced capacity throughout 2021.
With this unique one-year plan, we can support our partners in exhibition with a steady pipeline of world-class films, while also giving moviegoers who may not have access to theaters or aren’t quite ready to go back to the movies the chance to see our amazing 2021 films.
We see it as a win-win for film lovers and exhibitors, and we’re extremely grateful to our filmmaking partners for working with us on this innovative response to these circumstances.”
2020 has been a hard one, almost everyone can easily say, they were affected negatively one way or another by the raging pandemic, whether reasons be economic, physical or even our personal relationships.
Actor and director Ryan Reynolds and his production company, Maximum Effort, hilariously delivered to viewers just how crazy this year has been in an extremely entertaining video ad for the online dating service Match.com.
Reynolds, who is known for his quirky sense of humor described the commercial as a “A Love Story for the ages. Or at least this age”.
The devil himself, Satan is seen swiping on the doing app and matches with a woman with the user name “2020”. We see Satan and 2020 go on a series of date, including working out at a socially distanced gym, starting a dumpster fire, stealing armfuls of toilet paper, and eating scorching hot chili peppers at an empty sporting stadium. The two break all the rules and jokingly references in some form or another exaggerations on some of the struggles, limitations and restrictions set for covid-19.
The ad ends with the couple, in love, watching what looks like the end of the world, an apocalyptic backdrop with asteroids destroying buildings and the city around them. With the truly devilish end comment “ I just don’t want this year to end”. Although, unquestionably we all can’t wait for 2021 and better times to come. This ad brings much levity to the seriousness brought on this year.
The cherry on top is, we get to hear Taylor Swift’s romantic ballad and 2008 smash hit “Love Story” play in the background. Swift who is in the process of re-recording her songs due to battling with Scooter Braun, gave Reynolds a sneak peak for the advert.
Okay so while my new re-records are NOT done, my friend @VancityReynolds asked me if he could use a snippet of one for a LOLsome commercial he wrote so…here’s a sneak peak of Love Story! Working hard to get the music to you soon!! https://t.co/0vBFXxaRXR
Can this Tangled web of political and criminal drama entrance for 10 episodes?
Emmy award winner, Bryan Cranston, most popularly known as his character Walter White in the television series “Breaking Bad” is back for a new series.
The upcoming dramatic crime limited series will be on the premium channel Showtime. The miniseries “Your Honor” premiers Sunday, Dec 6 at 10/9 c. Users that subscribe to Showtime via Amazon Prime video can also watch from there.
The premise of the show as provided by Showtime, is about Michael Desiato, a New Orleans judge played by Cranston, who is forced to confront his own deepest convictions when his son Hunter played by Hunter Doohan is involved in a hit and run that involved an organized crime family.
As a storm of vengeance, lies and deceit threatens his whole world, Michael faces a series of increasingly impossible choices. The show posits the moral dilemma, and uncovers just how far an honest man and father will go to save his son’s life.
“It’s never clean, and that’s what makes good drama,” Cranston says. “It’s a very exciting and compelling spiral of events played out in 10 episodes.”
The miniseries has already started to trickle out reviews, some of which have said that it is bad, however most are comparing apples to oranges to his extraordinary work playing a high school chemistry teacher turned drug lord. Check out this weekend and see for yourself.
New and interesting options for streaming entertainment coming 2021
Discovery is behind a handful of networks including: Discovery Channel, Food Network, HGTV, ID, OWN, TLC and Animal Planet. The company will be joining as a new contender in the so-called streaming wars with the big hitters like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+ and Peacock. This year, the only new streaming platform, Quibi, launched and within the same year, rather tragically called in quits.
The service will be available among all the major device platforms that will include smart TV’s, web based, phones and tablets. There was no mention to specific platforms, more information will likely be disclosed closer to the start date. Those that are customers of Verizon unlimited wireless will be able to opt for 12 free months of Discovery.
Discovery+ is set to launch its new streaming platform at the beginning of next year on Jan 4, 2021. The monthly price will have the option of $4.99 with ads, or $2 extra for $6.99 a month without adds. Discovery+ launched last month in UK and Ireland, with plans to expand to more than 25 additional international markets, including the US next year.
The new streaming service will have over 55,000 episodes of TV in its arsenal. Discovery will provide of entertainment with a wide mixture of shows in its library, as well as movies and new and exclusive original content. There are reports of plans for shows including the likes of Chip and Goanna Gaines (Fixer Upper), David Attenborough, comedian Kevin Hart, and big name chefs like Bobby Flay and Giada De Laurentiss.
“We’ll see, but people love our channels… We’ve never been stronger to the cable bundle.” he continued to say about the networks are “effectively like the NFL times five right now for women.”
-CEO David Zaslav
Haven’t joined in on a Watch Party?
Amazon Prime Video and Netflix have had watch party features for a while now. Hulu and Disney+ are now rolling out its own versions, to allow for friends and family to share some entertainment connectedness.
Hulu started testing the new feature back in May for select users that allowed for a group up to eight people to watch TV shows and movies together. Through the website, the party can chat with one another throughout the videos, commenting in real time, even allowing their own playback feature (in case you have to grab a snack).
The then limited feature is now fully functional and available for all on-demand Hulu subscribers (those that have ad-free or ad-supported options). There should now be a “Watch Party” icon on Hulu’s main page, once in, you will be provided a link that can be shared to up to seven other Hulu subscribers. When all members have joined, the initiator (the host) starts the show or movie. The feature is only supported on Hulu.com, so it will not be accessible through the app.
Disney+ also recently rolled out its own version of a watch party, called “GroupWatch”. The main difference, however is group members are limited to reacting through emojis, with no options yet for written communication.
The meaning of him coming out for the LGBTQ community and beyond
Elliot Page, formerly known as Ellen, announced Tuesday, he identifies as a gender non-binary transgender person and uses both he/him and they/them for pronouns. If you are not familiar with the term, gender non-binary, it means that someones gender identity and who they know themselves to be is neither man nor woman. And the use of pronouns, as we all have them, whether we are conscious of it or not, for a transgender person, they preferred pronouns are a way of showing and giving respect for who someone authentically is.
He took to his social media to post the very candid letter. Below is a portion of the letter, the entirety can be seen on the below post from Elliot’s Twitter.
“Hi friends, I want to share with you that I am trans, my pronouns are he/they and my name is Elliot.
I feel lucky to be writing this. To be here. To have arrived at this place in my life. I feel overwhelming gratitude for the incredible people who have supported me along this journey.
I can’t begin to express how remarkable it feels to finally love who I am enough to pursue my authentic self. I’ve been endlessly inspired by so many in the trans community.
Thank you for your courage, your generosity and ceaselessly working to make this world a more inclusive and compassionate place.”
This disclosure from Page, is a game changer for the entertainment industry, as it will give more trans visibility on screen. Hollywood has been in need of the depiction of more accurate representation in TV shows and movies. Even though Elliot announcing he was transgender is for obvious personal reasons, there also comes significant and impactful steps that affect the audience.
Page known for his breakout role in “Juno”, as well as other varied characters including work in “X-Men”, “Inception”, “Tallulah, “Whit It!” and much more. Currently starring in Netflix’s “The Umbrella Academy”, reports for next season, Page will continue to play the cisgender woman, with no plans to change the character’s gender. Netflix does have plans to change the credits for all his past work.
Prior to the announcement, Page has been one of the most visible and publicly gay actors in Hollywood. Now, Page will be one, if not the, highest profile actor that has publicly identified as transgender. There are a small but growing number of out tran actors and public figures including: Laverne Cox, Chaz Bono, Caitlyn Jenner, Jazz Jennings, Brian Michael Smith and Trace Lysette.
GLAAD’s Director of Transgender Media, Nick Adams, commented on the announcement:
“Elliot Page has given us fantastic characters on-screen, and has been an outspoken advocate for all LGBTQ people. He will now be an inspiration to countless trans and non-binary people. All transgender people deserve the chance to be ourselves and to be accepted for who we are. We celebrate the remarkable Elliot Page today.”
Anytime anyone is able to be their authentic selves, that should be celebrated. Coming out as transgender takes strength and vulnerability, Elliot sharing in such a public way is incredibly up-lifting.
Company testing the waters with video stories for some playlists
Spotify will join in with the growing number of apps that give users access to short video content, at least in a limited capacity initially. What is interesting is, Spotify doesn’t immediately jump out as the type of app that one would have any use for the stories style feature, which are obviously more common among social networking sites, yet it will be interesting to see how its stories feature evolve over time.
Videos, which I will dub “Stories” for the purposes of online videos, have become such a popular feature nowadays and it’s easy to see why. Not only do video stories visually grab people’s attention, the medium can also be interactive, engaging and even create meaningful emotional responses from the images.
Reviewing the number of apps that have a type of stories feature has been growing over the years, it seems like almost all the apps have jumped on the bandwagon. Initially brought about by Snapchat, bigger social media platform likes Instagram and Facebook quickly followed to put its own spin with “Stories” which has become well established features of the app.
Twitter, this month launched its own version called “Fleets”. Fleets are akin to Instagram Stories, in that they are available, given the name, for only 24 hours to share whatever momentary (fleeting) thoughts, feelings, ect.
Other, perhaps lesser known apps that have stories include LinkedIn (just learned that one!) and Pinterest with “Story Pins” that have a PowerPoint like quality that allow a combination of video, images and texts.
TikTok, exclusively known for videos and its classic 60-second limit posts understands the power of video posts and is reportedly experimenting with extending TikToks that can be as long as three minutes.
Currently within Spotify, the stories feature will only be available for a limited number of playlists and albums (as the feature is only just begun its roll out). Once you find a playlist that have the feature, for example we choose the Christmas Hit playlist, you’ll see “tap to see the story” and be able to view video snippets from various major artists.
2020 Wrapped – Chronicles your music chooses from throughout the year
As the end of the year nears, the 2020 version of Spotify Wrapped is now live and available for users to find their curated playlists. Accessible on your app, mobile browser or a desktop. With nearly 286 million users and 130 million subscribers, the Wrapped feature is a neat way to reflect on your music and “wrap” up the end of year.
If you don’t yet know what Spotify Wrapped is or the importance of it, it is the annual feature that compiles your yearlong listening history and then creates a truly customized and personalized playlists of what you have listened to the most over the year.
In addition to creating the top 100 tracks you’ve most listened to for the year of 2020, you can also view stats of just how much you played the same songs. The stats can be either enlightening or further solidify what you already know about your taste in music.
For me, I already knew, but visually seeing my love of Billie Eilish, 80’s pop and 90’s alternative is kinda entertaining. You’ll will also be able to see “Missed Hits” and “On Record” which will combine a mixture of songs, artists and podcasts you might like but have not yet listened to.
Even if you aren’t a subscriber to Spotify and want to get data on what the most popular artists and podcasts were for the year, you can by clicking here. We learned the most streamed song of 2020 was by The Weekend for his song “Blinding Lights”.
As part of the Wrapped look back on 2020, Spotify also ranked the top podcasts, with “Joe Rogan Experience” at the top, followed by “TED Talks Daily” and “New York Times The Daily”. The company’s $100 million acquisition with the podcast creation software Anchor definitely paid off, as this year, an isolated one for many because of the pandemic, contributed to more than 1 million podcast shows in the Spotify catalog for 2020.
If you do not use Spotify, fear not, Apple also has its own version of Wrapped, called Replay that was launch November 2019. You will need your Apple ID that you use for your Apple Music subscription, and you will see, just as with Spotify, a comprehensive look at your top played tracks for 2020. Once logged in click on “Get Your Replay Mix” button to see “Replay 2020”.
There is also the option to look at previous years, if you are in a nostalgic mood and want to see how (if any) your musical tastes and choose in music has evolved.
Something a little different is you don’t have to wait until the end of the year to access Apple Replay, you can listen to your mix at any point in the year given you’ve listened to enough music (as the mix is updated on a weekly basis).
During her annual interview with Vanity Fair magazine, Billie Eilish explained her and brother / collaborator, Finneas have been recording a new batch of songs: “Right now I have 16. We’ve been working. And I love them all.”
The Eilish siblings, who like the most of us have been forced to stay at home, have taken that time to get their creative juices flowing.
In addition to playing around and creating hilarious TikTok content, the duo have pumped them out; song after song.
During the interview, she describes their joint creative stamina and how it is at a peak; “I think Finneas and I have just seriously really gotten in the groove. We do it so fast.”
Last month, the singer shared her newest single “Therefore I am” and performed it live for the first time during the American Music Awards (AMAs).
Eilish has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards for “Everything I Wanted”, including Best Pop Solo Performance and Song of the Year.
A TikTok video by Truth Lies Shenanigans (@tlsliveshow) has shown the uncanny similarities of a speech in the comedy film “Legally Blonde” and a speech from Donald Trump. The TikTok went viral, and hilariously, Trump is now being accused of plagiarism.
The words are not verbatim, yet the messages between the fictional character, Elle Woods played by Reese Witherspoon and Trump are hilariously nearly identical in nature.
Elle Woods: “We take our next steps into the world…It is with passion…Courage of conviction…And most importantly…Have faith in yourself…We did it!”
Trump: “You must go forth into the world…Passion…Courage and your conviction…Most importantly…Be true to yourself…I did it!”
During “The Tonight Show” Jimmy Fallon also pointed out that Trump’s commencement speech at Liberty University in Virginia, back in 2017, eerily matches Elle Wood’s speech she gives to her fellow graduates at Harvard Law school.
Coincidentally or not, Legally Blonde is also making a come back. “Legally Blonde” originally premiered back in 2001, with the sequel in 2003. MGM announced back in October that the 3rd installment of the film will be coming sometime around May 2022.
Newly sparked dating rumors with couple spotted getting cozy together
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky (Lord Pretty Flacko Jodye), both 32, have been close friends for several years. They have appeared on the red carpet together and even collab-ed in a few of each others’ projects.
Most notably when Rihanna starred in the rapper’s 2013 music video for “Fashion Killa”, and A$AP Rocky joining RiRi for her Fenty Skin campaign this July. As well as both interviewing for GQ and Vogue in August for her skin care and beauty collection.
Ever since Rihanna broke up with her billionaire boyfriend, Hassan Jameel early in January, there have been whispers about a new man.
Since Ri and Rocky have always been a bit flirtatious towards one another, it was said that they allegedly began to see one another romantically after her break up with Jameel.
Now it seems that after all the months of speculations and rumors about their romance, that the two are in fact dating. Page Six reported the couple were spotted having dinner at the Beatrice Inn in New York over the holiday weekend.
The two haven’t come out officially to publicly announce the status or their relationship or quell any of the dating rumors, regardless there’s fantastic chemistry and I’m here for it!
Amazon is constantly changing and adding new deals – sometimes with big new discounts. These are some current examples and there are many, many more in all categories.
HD Viewing: Cutting-edge DLP technology projects a vividly-detailed 720p, 200-ANSI-lumen image up to 100 inches big. Ideal for use in low-light environments
Instant Clarity: Get an ultra-sharp, rectangular image from almost any angle in under a second with Capsule Max mini projector’s autofocus and keystoning technology
Ideal in the Home: Stay entertained at home with Capsule Max’s 100-inch image. Watch movies, take online classes, or keep the kids entertained with hours of cartoons and educational videos. The possibilities are endless
Penumbral eclipse, a.k.a. partial eclipse will be visible in US early Monday
Above: Photo / Unsplash
On the final day of November 2020 a shining orb will enlighten the early morning skys, due to a partial lunar eclipse occurring during the full “beaver moon”. The nickname “Beaver Moon” stems from the fact that it occurs during the time of year when beavers build their winter dams before the coldest time of winter.
In the early days of the nation, Algonquin Native American tribes and American colonists gave nicknames to each full moon. The names chosen were based on hunting trends, farming routines and weather conditions at the time of the year that each took place.
The fullest phase will be reached at 1:30 a.m. Pacific time. The moon will look big and bright in the sky both Sunday night and also on Tuesday, December 1st, providing that cloud cover is not so thick as to prevent visibility.
The eclipse spectacle will be partial, but spectacular nonetheless. The full “glide across” will take several hours and, unlike solar eclipses, the lunar variation is perfectly safe to view; though a telescope or with the naked eye.
“the moon will take 4 hours and 21 minutes to glide across the pale outer fringe (penumbra) of Earth’s shadow, never reaching the shadow’s dark umbra,”
— Space.com astronomy writer Joe Rao
In the case of a full lunar eclipse instead of a partial one, such as this one, the entire moon would be darkened for a short time, and give off a reddish-orange tint on the edges.
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Unique Gifts for Men Who have everything: Christmas Day is fast approaching and we know it can be hard to choose the cool present for dad from daughter son who is outdoor lover. This Survival Gear will brings smile to their face and they are sure to love.
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Meet the all-new Echo Dot with clock – Our most popular smart speaker with Alexa. The sleek, compact design delivers crisp vocals and balanced bass for full sound.
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NEW FAVORITE GAME: Rollors is a super cool new game which combines horseshoes, bocce ball and outdoor bowling. With a combination of luck and skill, this outdoor game is great for the whole family. So roll the disks, reach the goal, score points and win.
PERFECT CHOICE FOR KIDS: This outdoor game is the best choice for your children, as it can combine learning, dexterity and fun under the sun. The Rollors will help your kids develop their coordination and precision, all while having the best of times.
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Black Friday sales for 2020 have already started, with so many great deals popping up online, it can be hard to know where to turn to first. Luckily, Amazon in particular has put out huge savings on many electronics including Apple product headphones, its Echo products, Fire TV, cell phones and much for for the cyber event. Below we’ve collected the best deals ready to buy in the Electronics category.
Unfortunately it is not likely the new iPhone 12 will have any sales since the launch was pretty recent, however there are many other bargains on older models of smartphones that Amazon is providing this Black Friday. Check out below.
A spate of new titles are being added to Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime and more
Because of COVID-19, 2020 will go down in history as one of the most unique years for movies. With theaters closed, blockbusters delayed, and dozens of highly anticipated films getting siphoned off to streaming services, there hasn’t been any major box office highs or prestigious content for the big screen. Given the state of the world, this reality will likely continue through December, robbing the holiday season of its traditional major releases.
Thank goodness we have a variety of streaming platforms and many new releases for the month of December and beyond for some much needed holiday entertainment.
Nevertheless, a handful of pictures are still pushing for late 2020 premieres. Not all hope is lost for a Christmas-time movie watching experience. Here are a few anticipated films that plan on coming out before the end of the year…
Happiest Season
Today, a new Christmas romantic comedy has dropped, “Happiness Season” just in time for the long 4 day Thanksgiving holiday. This film is a little unique in that the focus centers around two lesbian women. Kristen Stewart (in real life openly gay) plays Abby and Mackenzie Davis plays Harper, a happy couple, whose relationship is put to the test.
Diego Maradona
A look at the career of celebrated football player Diego Armando Maradona. On 5th July 1984, Diego Maradona arrived in Naples for a world-record fee. The world’s most celebrated football icon and the most passionate but dangerous city in Europe were a perfect match for each other. A documentary “Diego Maradona,” which was directed by Filmmaker Asif Kapadia and released in 2019, tweeted his disbelief that the larger-than-life figure had passed away
https://youtu.be/vDXon6NtO8o
Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions
Taylor Swift delighted fans everywhere with a seemingly out of the blue announcement of her latest project. The concert film will be available exclusively on Disney+ streaming platform. The intimate “Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions” will premiere on Disney+ on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at midnight. The film was shot in September 2020 at the upstate New York studio, ‘The Long Pond’ alongside Swift’s co-producers Aaron Dessner (The National) and Jack Antonoff (Bleachers).
Hillbilly Elegy
Hillbilly Elegy, the movie based on the 2016 book, a memoir written by J.D. Vance that tells his story of the difficulties growing up with his drug-addicted mother in the small working-class town in the Appalachians. As rings true in the book, Vance’s character preserves through hardwork to ultimately take on a better path that leads to his acceptance into Yale.
Wonder Woman: 1984
Patty Jenkins’ sequel to 2017’s “Wonder Woman” was originally slated for a June release, but got perpetually pushed back because of the virus. Now, it is holding onto a Christmas Day theatrical debut. Gal Gadot returns as the titular heroin alongside Chris Pine and Kristen Wiig in this ninth installment to the DC Extended Universe.
Above: Photo “Coming 2 America”
Coming 2 America
After returning to host “Saturday Night Live” and starring in Netflix’s “Dolemite Is My Name,” legendary comedian Eddie Murphy effectively reentered the zeitgeist in 2019. Therefore, hopes were high for his late sequel to the 1988 classic, “Coming To America.” Although made for the theaters, this 2020 film will now be available exclusively on Amazon Prime starting December 18th.
Mank
A film historian’s film if there ever was one, the David Fincher-directed “Mank” stars Gary Oldman as real-life screenwriter, Herman J. Mankiewicz. Shot in black-and-white, the biopic focuses on Mankiewicz’s alcoholism and tumultuous experience writing “Citizen Kane” during Hollywood’s Golden Age. This Oscar-bait movie has already started its limited theatrical run, but will find a home on Netflix come December 4th.
Pixar’s last theatrical release was terribly timed. The critically acclaimed, but commercially underwhelming “Onward” hit theaters the same weekend that the pandemic heated up in America and moviegoers were urged to stay at home. This next Disney-Pixar outing will thus go directly to streaming via Disney+. Available on Christmas Day, “Soul” is the first Pixar feature not to have a big-screen premiere.
Midnight Sky
Netflix went all in for this George Clooney-directed science fiction adaptation. It’s a story about a man (played by Clooney) living on post-apocalyptic Earth and communicating with astronauts as they make their way back to the shambled planet. The film will stream on December 23rd and in this unique case, 2020 might actually add some timely relevance to the plot.
Above: Official Trailer of Free Guy / 20th Century Fox
Free Guy
Riding on the coattails of “Deadpool” and “Detective Pikachu,” Disney’s “Free Guy” is the latest action-comedy to star Ryan Reynolds as a happy-go-lucky protagonist. With a plot involving virtual reality, the movie puts an ordinary guy in extraordinary circumstances for some hilarious thrills. Carried over from 20th Century Fox and not based on any pre-existing IP, “Free Guy” is a bit of a gamble. We’ll find out if it pays off on when it hits theaters on the eleventh.
Another prospective theatrical release for December, Sony’s “Monster Hunter” plans to premiere on the 30th. Based off of the popular video game series of the same title, “Monster Hunter” promises a hybrid of war, science fiction, and fantasy delights. Director Paul W.S. Anderson has missed the mark with his video game adaptations before, but we cannot deny that huge spectacles projected on the big screen are something we’ve been deprived of this year, and therefore deeply crave.
Above: Photo from “Happiest Season / Courtesy of Hulu
Praise for Stewart in first “Out and Proud” Christmas movie
Around this time of year, there are usually a handful of beloved holiday movies like “Home Alone, “Family Stone” and many more. Today, a new Christmas romantic comedy has dropped, “Happiness Season” just in time for the long 4 day Thanksgiving holiday. This film is a little unique in that the focus centers around two lesbian women.
The now streaming movie was originally meant for a theatrical release, yet due to the current climate, found its way to the Hulu streaming platform.
Kristen Stewart (in real life openly gay) plays Abby and Mackenzie Davis plays Harper, a happy couple, whose relationship is put to the test. Harper invites Abby back to her parents for the holidays. Only during the drive is it revealed that her family doesn’t know she is gay and hasn’t yet come out to anyone in the family. Abby has to pose as a straight friend. Bonus, the hilarious Dan Levy, plays John, Abby’s best friend.
“it’s really nice to watch a movie that you get to completely rid yourself of that [feeling] knowing that you can laugh at that experience and that catharsis knowing that what you’re getting is an earned happiness. You get to laugh at these weird fears of saying the wrong thing around someone’s family or not being able to lie very well so maybe they’ll know I’m gay.”
-Kristen Stewart
Director Clea DuVall, who is openly out herself, commented on the film, “I love Christmas movies but I had never really seen myself represented in one before”. Her take away goal was “wanting to feel like I was seeing me in a movie like this, which I had never seen before. And my experience is not unique. I’m not the only one going through it. So there has to be a lot of other people who are also feeling underrepresented.”
'Twas the night before #HappiestSeason, when all through the house, We're gathering our chosen family, or even a spouse, We wrapped the opening credits up nicely just for you, To tell you our movie is now streaming, only on @hulu! pic.twitter.com/4ck1oHKYo6
Above: Photo Courtesy of Netflix “Hillbilly Elegy”
…To Stream or Not To Stream, that is the question?
Hillbilly Elegy, now on Netflix, is a movie based on the 2016 book, a memoir written by J.D. Vance, that tells his story of the difficulties growing up with his drug-addicted mother in a small working-class town in the Appalachians. As rings true in the book, Vance’s character preservers, through hard work, ultimately to take on a better path that leads to his acceptance into Yale.
The book became a best-seller, somewhat unexpectedly, with Harper Collins only initially running 10,000 copies, but then found themselves quickly having to reprint. Released during the time that the 2016 election was beginning to build steam, it was said to have gained its popularity, by giving both Democrats and Republican readers a better understanding of Donald Trump’s voter base.
Soon after the debut of book and massive success, Ron Howard’s production company bought the filming rights, in 2017, and then Netflix won the bidding war to finance the movie, a $45 million deal. The film is directed by Ron Howard and executive-produced by the author.
After the release of the movie on Nov. 24, 2020 many critics had mixed reviews. Ranging from Oscar worthy to “worst movie ever”.
The source of the controversy, no doubt, stems from how the movie plays out the “hillbilly” aspect of the narrative. Some say that the depiction of the characters, while based on Vance’s life, only serves to further reinforce stereotypes of poor white America.
Other critics note that the movie tries to sell the “pick yourself up by the bootstraps” type of made-for-film-fantasy while ignoring the very real hardships of addiction and systematic inequalities.
The star-studded cast includes Glenn Close as J.D’s Mamaw (grandmother) and Amy Adams as Bev (his mother). The film is said to be a mostly straightforward adaptation of Vance’s book. The movie is now available to stream through the Netflix platform.
Below is some additional information from the publisher about the 2016 book adapted to the new released film.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis
Click to see “Hillbilly Elegy” and help Independent Bookstores. Also available on Amazon.
Part memoir, part historical and social analysis, J. D. Vance’s Hillbilly Elegy is a fascinating consideration of class, culture, and the American dream.
Vance’s grandparents were “dirt poor and in love.” They got married and moved north from Kentucky to Ohio in the hopes of escaping the dreadful poverty around them. Their grandchild (the author) graduated from Yale Law School, a conventional marker of their success in achieving upward mobility for their family. But Vance cautions that is only the short version. The slightly longer version is that his grandparents, aunt, uncle, and mother struggled to varying degrees with the demands of their new middle class life and they, and Vance himself, still carry around the demons of their chaotic family history.
Delving into his own personal story and drawing on a wide array of sociological studies, Vance takes us deep into working class life in the Appalachian region. This demographic of our country has been slowly disintegrating over forty years, and Vance provides a searching and clear-eyed attempt to understand when and how “hillbillies” lost faith in any hope of upward mobility, and in opportunities to come.
At times funny, disturbing, and deeply moving, this is a family history that is also a troubling meditation on the loss of the American dream for a large portion of this country.
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This is going way, way, over the edge, what’s next?
Trump and his supporters continue to follow the rhetoric that the election was rigged, fraught with fraud (despite continued evidence to the contrary) and that Joe Bidenstole the election.
Trump’s retweets of Quaid’s posts come after GSA Emily Murphy informed Biden that the Trump administration is ready to formally allow the presidential transition to begin. Perhaps that set him off…
Trump, as per usual, took to Twitter, and decided to retweeted a total of 5 old tweets from Randy Quaid, who has been very vocal in calling for a total 2020 election recount / do-over.
Producer, director, writer, actor, Quaid does it all in Tweets from hell
Randy Quaid, a fervent Trump supporter, has made headlines not for this acting, but for his bizarre social media posts, two in particular that showcase his political ranting in the most theatrical way possible.
Oddly, since Quaid is an actor (or at least a retired one) it is hard to tell if he is serious or if this is some sort of “long con”. He comes across as far more than deranged, mad, totally off his rocker – almost like it’s scripted.
And, yet, this is what he is known for – one of his most famous roles is in “Independence Day” where he plays an alcoholic, wacko, ex-military, semi-retired pilot who commits hari-kari in an effort to save the planet from aliens.
Could it be that some sort of actor-related (or real?) PTSD is causing his brain to think that he is in some imaginary sequel to his Independence Day role? Or maybe Trump is also thinking he is living an extension of his glory days as the mogul on The Apprentice – well, the answer to that one is obviously, yes, but, it appears that the strangeness and sickness is just mounting up for the third act. what will that be?
Some parts of the video, are literally innocent (?), as he speaks gibberish with green and red strobe lights flashing upon a closeup of his face.
“Is this the way America goes? From George Washington to George Soros? From oceans white with foam to a socialist swamp. Is this the way America goes? Is this really our future? Wake up you sleeping giant, the lilliputians have tied you down with their fantastic dreams of icebergs melting into dinosaurs and train tracks stretching across the Pacific water…”
